NFPA 14 requires automatic standpipe systems to contain water at all times.

• A. The system must contain water at all times
• B. Water stored offsite
• C. Water only when in use
• D. Water must be present during testing

Answer: (A)

Automatic standpipe systems are designed to deliver water immediately to outlets when a demand is created. To achieve that quick response, the piping is kept filled with water and pressurized at all times. If the pipes were empty or only filled on demand, there would be a delay while air is expelled and the lines are charged, which could cost precious seconds during a fire. That readiness is why NFPA 14 requires the system to contain water at all times so the water reaches the standpipe outlets without delay. Storing water offsite would introduce a charging delay, and having water only when in use would defeat the purpose of instant availability. Water present during testing is a separate consideration; the continuous readiness during normal operation is about being charged and ready to deliver water at all times.