Before performing a hydrostatic test on a semi-automatic standpipe in a high rise building, with a total volume of 760 gallons, what should be done first?

• A. Inform the building owner of the need for access to all areas of the building for the duration of the test.
• B. Check that all valves on all floors are closed.
• C. Perform an air test in the system.
• D. Place 25 psi of water pressure on the system to check for leaks

Answer: (B)

The first step in preparing a hydrostatic test for a standpipe is to isolate the portion being tested by closing valves on every floor. This keeps the test water confined to the standpipe segment and prevents it from flowing into other parts of the building or leaving through outlets, which ensures the test results reflect the integrity of the intended section and avoids unintended water damage. After this isolation, you would fill the standpipe to the required test volume and pressurize to the specified hydrostatic pressure to check for leaks. Notifying the building owner and coordinating access is important for safety and logistics, but it doesn’t establish the test conditions. An air test or applying a very low pressure like 25 psi wouldn’t provide the proper hydrostatic assessment for a standpipe of this size.