Trends in the Sprinkler Fitter trade
Technology
The sprinkler fitter trade is using advanced technology to work smarter and faster.
Mobile devices like smartphones and tablets are now important for looking up codes, standards, regulations, drawings, and job details at the work site. Digital document management helps keep important information organized and easy to access and transfer whether in the office or on-site.
Construction companies are using Building Information Modelling (BIM) to generate and manage digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of buildings. This digitization of building information allows sprinkler fitters to move away from physical prints and allows instant collaboration between owners, employers, employees, designers, engineers, contractors and other tradespeople.
Robotic total stations, laser scanners and reality capture equipment are emerging on work sites to increase the accuracy of installations. Digital tools like flowmeters and laser alignment devices also improve testing and monitoring of equipment.
Remote monitoring, inspection and testing technology is emerging in fire protection, allowing sprinkler fitters to troubleshoot and aid in diagnosing systems from a distance.
Health and Safety
New health and safety directives are providing awareness of hazards such as foam concentrates containing perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)/perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), heavily chlorinated water being released into the environment and listed antifreeze solutions.
Sprinkler fitters are increasingly being supported in addressing and promoting mental health and well-being. Addiction treatment and mental health programs are becoming more accepted and available in the trade.
There is a greater emphasis on the process and documentation of work to prevent and monitor workplace injuries and overexertion, as well as to support recovery. Safety performance is extremely important for a contractor’s ability to bid on projects.
Products/Materials
The sprinkler fitter industry is seeing big improvements in products and materials that help protect against fire. Some systems are now made specifically for protecting lithium-ion battery storage, which is important for new technologies. Ongoing testing has allowed Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) sprinklers to be permitted in storage occupancies with greater ceiling and stockpile heights.
Listed premixed antifreeze and foam system equipment are becoming more common, and there is a rise in the use of hybrid and water mist systems as cleaner options for putting out fires and conserving water. Nitrogen generators are being used as air maintenance on dry and preaction systems to aid in reducing corrosion. Nitrogen inerting is also being applied to wet pipe systems.
Environmental
The sprinkler fitter industry is paying more attention to being environmentally friendly. There is ongoing research about using clean agents to reduce the impact of fire protection systems on the environment while still keeping life and property safe from fires. Water conservation is also important, especially in areas with drought or limited water supplies.
Concerns about water pollution have led to actions like treating used drinking water in sensitive areas to lessen its environmental impact. It is important to have proper ways to divert and contain water to avoid polluting local water sources. Additionally, the use of additives in systems, like antifreeze and treatments for pipe corrosion, is being examined for their harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), highlighting the need for safer, eco-friendly options.
Waste management is another important focus. The industry is working to reduce waste from packaging and product disposal. Efforts include recycling metals, cardboard, and plastic, while also ensuring that hazardous waste like cutting oils and hydraulic fluids is disposed of safely. By recycling and reducing waste, along with using water and energy more efficiently, the industry aims to be more responsible and sustainable.
Fluorinated foam for firefighting is no longer available due to environmental and health impacts. Alternates to existing and new foam systems are fluorine-free foams and the incorporation of alternative environmentally friendly faux foam for testing of foam and deluge systems.
Legislative and Regulatory
The sprinkler fitter trade is always changing, and sprinkler fitters should remain current with adopted codes, standards and regulations in their jurisdiction and municipality.
New regulations for foam concentrates, listed antifreeze solutions and clean agents are emerging, which could greatly affect how fire protection is done. Also, legislation to permit greater enforcement continues to evolve for inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) work.