To create awareness regarding the remedies for leaking underground fire pipes.

Introduction:

A large number of apartment buildings and industries which are more than 8-10 years old are facing a problem of underground fire safety pipes leakage. This is due to the fact that the soil and moisture around the steel pipe leads to accelerated rates of corrosion.

This leakage is extremely dangerous as it not only leads to wastage of a precious resource, but can also lead to malfunctioning of pumps and lack of water in case of a fire incident. This can have devastating implications for the managing committee / management.

Diagnosis:

The symptoms of an underground leakage are very simple. The frequent start-stop of the Jockey pump (frequency less than 6 hours), without any apparent water usage, is a clear indication of pipe leakage. If this leakage is not evident on the above ground pipes / equipment, then the only cause will be leakage in the underground pipes.

Locating the Repairing the Leakage:

Locating the leakage in an underground buried pipe is a challenge. It is not only not visible to the naked eye, but it is also not easily traceable even with professional ultrasound equipment.

Further, even if we are able to locate the leakage, there is always the chance of another leak erupting in a few months in the same pipe. The accelerated rate of corrosion will sooner or later affect the entire length of the buried pipe.

Even when the leak is located, repairing the same can at best be a ‘band aid’ type of job, due to the lack of space to undertake proper welding operations.

In addition, the cost of repairing can be prohibitive considering the excavation of the floor which entails the cost of redoing the flooring finishes and also the disruption caused to traffic during the period of excavation.

What is the solution?

The long term and most trouble free solution is to replace the underground buried pipe with an above ground pipe. This obviates the necessity to excavate the entire floor and redo the flooring. It also does not lead to any traffic disruptions.

In addition, the life of an above ground pipe is many times more than a buried pipe. So your investment is bound to last for atleast 20 years.

Further the Mumbai Fire Brigade insists on External Hydrant lines being above ground to ensure against undetected leakages.

Conclusion

Underground fire pipe leakage is a critical issue that demands immediate attention to ensure the safety and operational efficiency of buildings. By transitioning to above-ground piping, the risks associated with accelerated corrosion, wastage of resources, and compromised fire safety can be effectively mitigated. Choosing a long-term solution not only guarantees convenience and peace of mind but also aligns with the recommendations set forth by the Mumbai Fire Brigade. Don’t let underground pipe leakage jeopardise your building’s integrity and safety—opt for above-ground piping to secure a resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

For any further information or queries regarding fire safety measures and addressing underground fire pipe leakage, we encourage you to get in touch with our knowledgeable Fire Advisors. They can provide professional guidance tailored to your specific needs. Reach out to our Fire Advisors, and they will be more happy to assist you with expert insights and solutions. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities, so don’t hesitate to contact us for any assistance you may require.