For standpipe testing, which design requirements should be used?

• A. The design requirements at the time of installation
• B. The design requirements of NFPA 14 (2010)
• C. 500 gpm at 65 psi
• D. 500 gpm at 100 psi

Answer: (A)

Standpipe testing should verify the system against the design criteria that existed when it was installed. The test needs to reflect what was actually built, with the components, layout, and performance expectations approved in the project documents at the time of installation. While NFPA 14 provides overall guidelines and may influence current practices, the acceptance test is governed by the design requirements that were in place when the system was installed.

If the system was designed for a specific flow and pressure, the test should verify that those exact conditions are met. Relying on a later edition’s numbers or on a fixed, universal value (like a particular gpm/psi combination) without tying it to the installed design would not accurately assess the as-built system. If changes are made later, they should be designed and re-tested to the new design criteria with appropriate approvals.