Safety & Compliance · SOP

Spray Booth Fire Suppression System Weekly Test

Ensure your spray booth fire suppression system is operational and compliant with NFPA 33 and WorkSafeBC regulations. This weekly test verifies detection, alarm, manual release, and agent delivery functions.

Estimated Time

30 min

Difficulty

Intermediate

Regulation

NFPA 33 / WorkSafeBC

Version

2.0

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Purpose

To verify that all components of the spray booth fire suppression system — including flame detectors, manual release stations, audible alarms, and agent delivery piping — are fully functional. Weekly testing ensures compliance with NFPA 33 (Spray Application of Flammable or Combustible Materials) and WorkSafeBC OHS regulations, reducing the risk of catastrophic fire in finishing operations.

Scope

This procedure applies to all paint spray booths at the facility equipped with automatic fire suppression systems (dry chemical, clean agent, or water mist). Covers weekly functional testing of detection, manual release, alarms, and agent piping integrity. Does not replace the annual inspection and certification required by the manufacturer and local fire code.

Safety Precautions

LOTOLockout/tagout the spray booth exhaust fan and ventilation system before initiating any test that may trigger a false alarm or agent release. Use a personal padlock and tag.
PPEWear safety glasses, hearing protection, and cut-resistant gloves. If testing near the agent storage cylinder, wear face shield and heavy-duty gloves in case of accidental discharge.
VENTEnsure the spray booth is free of combustible vapors before testing. Do not test with any spray finishing equipment operating.
ALRMNotify all personnel in the area that a suppression system test is in progress. Post a temporary sign on the booth door.

Required Tools & Materials

Manufacturer-specific test key or manual release handle (if separate)
Digital multimeter (optional, for checking control board voltage)
Pressure gauge (if system uses pressurized agent cylinder with local indicator)
Lockout/tagout kit with padlock, hasp, and written tag
Personal protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, face shield)
Operator logbook or digital checklist (e.g., SafeDesk)

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Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Lockout Exhaust and Ventilation: Locate the electrical disconnect for the spray booth exhaust fan and ventilation system. Turn the switch to the OFF position, attach a personal padlock and tag. Verify that fan blades have stopped completely before proceeding.

2 Inspect Control Panel: Open the suppression system control panel. Check for any fault or trouble indicators (LEDs, alarm codes). Document any abnormal readings on your checklist. If a fault is present, do not proceed with testing — contact the manufacturer or a certified technician.

3 Test Manual Release: Notify all personnel in the area. Activate the manual release station (break glass or pull handle). The audible alarm should sound immediately. Listen for the distinct pattern (e.g., temporal three). Confirm the alarm is audible inside and outside the booth.

4 Verify Agent Piping & Nozzles: Inspect all delivery piping for visible damage, corrosion, or blockages. Check that each discharge nozzle is clean, oriented correctly, and unobstructed by debris or overspray. Record the condition on your checklist.

5 Reset the System: Follow the manufacturer’s reset procedure — typically involves pushing a reset button or key switch on the control panel. Confirm that the control panel returns to a "Normal" (green) status. Re-engage any safety interlocks that were disabled.

6 Restore and Document: Turn the exhaust fan disconnect back to ON, remove lockout/tagout devices. Perform a final walk-around to ensure the booth is in normal operating condition. Record the test date, time, results, and any anomalies in the logbook or digital platform. Notify the safety supervisor if any failures were observed.

Spray Booth Fire Suppression System Weekly Test

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