Periodic assessment of fire department connection (FDC) integrity via water pressure is a mandated safety protocol. This process, conducted every five years, verifies the ability of the connection to withstand the pressures necessary for effective fire suppression. A controlled introduction of water at a specific pressure is maintained for a defined period, and any leakage or failure indicates a need for repair or replacement.
The importance of this evaluation lies in ensuring the reliability of the water supply to sprinkler and standpipe systems during a fire emergency. A compromised FDC could result in inadequate water flow, potentially hindering firefighting efforts and increasing the risk of property damage and loss of life. Consistent and timely execution of this procedure contributes significantly to overall fire safety and code compliance. Its origin stems from the need to proactively identify and mitigate potential weaknesses in fire protection infrastructure.
The following sections will detail the specific procedures involved in conducting this evaluation, the potential failure points to observe, and the appropriate corrective actions required to maintain a fully functional and compliant fire protection system.
1. Compliance Standards
The five-year water pressure evaluation of fire department connections is not an arbitrary exercise. It is a direct consequence of established compliance standards, a formalized embodiment of lessons learned from past failures and a proactive measure to safeguard against future tragedies. These standards, meticulously crafted and continuously refined, serve as the bedrock upon which the integrity of fire protection systems rests.
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NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
This standard serves as the primary compass, guiding the process. It dictates the specific procedures, pressure levels, and duration for the hydrostatic test. A building owner might believe their system is sound based on visual inspection alone, but only adherence to NFPA 25 ensures the connection can truly perform under the extreme demands of a fire. Failure to comply renders the building vulnerable, a gamble with potentially catastrophic consequences.
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Local Fire Codes and Jurisdictional Requirements
While NFPA 25 provides a national framework, local jurisdictions often impose additional requirements or modify existing ones to address specific regional needs or historical incidents. For example, a city with a history of freezing pipes might mandate additional insulation inspections during the hydrostatic test. Ignoring these local nuances can result in fines, legal liabilities, and, more importantly, a system that fails to adequately protect the building’s occupants.
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Manufacturer’s Specifications
The components of an FDC, from the caps to the couplings, are designed to withstand specific pressures and environmental conditions. Consulting the manufacturer’s specifications ensures that the hydrostatic test remains within safe operating parameters for the equipment. Exceeding these limits, even in the name of thoroughness, can cause damage, creating hidden weaknesses that compromise the system’s long-term reliability.
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Insurance Underwriting Guidelines
Insurance companies, recognizing the critical role of fire protection systems, often incorporate compliance standards into their underwriting guidelines. Meeting or exceeding these standards can result in lower premiums and a more favorable risk assessment. Conversely, failure to comply can lead to increased premiums, coverage restrictions, or even denial of coverage. Thus, adhering to compliance standards is not merely a legal obligation, but also a financially prudent decision.
The adherence to compliance standards, as evidenced by the five-year water pressure evaluation, represents a commitment to safety and a recognition of the potential consequences of negligence. These standards, when diligently followed, transform a potentially vulnerable connection into a reliable lifeline, a silent guardian ready to answer the call when disaster strikes.
2. Pressure Maintenance
The story of the five-year water pressure evaluation of a fire department connection is, in many ways, the story of sustained pressure. Not just the immediate, impactful force of water coursing through pipes, but the enduring pressure of vigilance, of meticulous procedure, and of unwavering commitment to safety. Without consistent pressure maintenance during this critical test, the entire exercise becomes an exercise in futility, a hollow ritual devoid of meaning.
Imagine a seasoned firefighter, decades on the job, witnessing countless close calls and near-misses. He understands, perhaps better than anyone, that a momentary lapse in pressure during a real fire can have catastrophic consequences. That same principle applies to the hydrostatic test. A gradual decline in pressure during the evaluation might mask a slow leak, a hairline fracture, or a weakening coupling vulnerabilities that would only become glaringly apparent when the system is called upon to perform under immense strain during an actual blaze. The sustained pressure serves as an unforgiving probe, relentlessly seeking out any chink in the armor of the fire protection system. Consider the case of a newly constructed apartment complex, passed inspection with flying colors, only to reveal a compromised FDC during its five-year re-evaluation. The initial test, rushed and poorly executed, failed to maintain consistent pressure, allowing a faulty weld to remain undetected. Had a fire broken out during those five years, the consequences could have been devastating.
Maintaining consistent pressure demands meticulous attention to detail: precise monitoring of gauges, diligent sealing of connections, and a thorough understanding of the system’s operational characteristics. It demands a technician not simply going through the motions, but possessing the knowledge and experience to recognize subtle anomalies, to interpret the whispers of the system revealing its hidden flaws. The pressure, both literal and figurative, forces these hidden flaws into the light, revealing vulnerabilities that, if left unaddressed, could compromise the safety of lives and property. In the end, the pressure maintenance is not just a step in the process; it is the core principle that transforms a routine test into a reliable safeguard.
3. Leakage detection
The five-year water pressure evaluation of a fire department connection is, at its heart, a story of detection. It is a deliberate, controlled scenario designed to coax secrets from metal and rubber, to expose the hidden vulnerabilities that time and environment conspire to create. Of all the components within this mandated safety measure, leakage detection stands as the critical interpreter, the instrument that translates silent pressures into tangible evidence of compromise. It is akin to a doctor listening for a murmur in the heart, a subtle sign that all is not well within the intricate system.
Consider the case of a sprawling warehouse, a labyrinth of stacked goods and shadowed aisles. The fire protection system, unseen and often unacknowledged, serves as the building’s silent sentinel. During a scheduled five-year evaluation, the technicians pressurize the FDC, adhering meticulously to prescribed protocols. The pressure gauge holds steady, seemingly confirming the system’s integrity. But then, a keen eye spots a telltale trickle from a corroded coupling, a leak so minuscule it might have gone unnoticed by a less experienced observer. That single trickle, however, speaks volumes. It reveals a slow, insidious decay that, if left undetected, would have resulted in a catastrophic failure during an actual fire. The leak is not merely an isolated incident; it is a symptom of a broader problem, a harbinger of potential collapse. This event underscores the profound importance of vigilance and expertise in leakage detection. It moves the testing from an ordinary procedure to a high value and meaningful check of the equipment.
Leakage detection during the five-year evaluation is thus not a perfunctory check-box item; it is the culmination of careful preparation, precise execution, and informed interpretation. It demands a technician who understands the language of the system, who can distinguish between a minor imperfection and a critical flaw. The challenges are real: pinhole leaks hidden beneath layers of rust, slow drips masked by condensation, subtle pressure drops easily dismissed as mere fluctuations. Yet, these challenges are precisely why the process is so crucial. By diligently pursuing these hidden signs of weakness, the five-year evaluation ensures that the fire department connection remains a reliable lifeline, a dependable source of water when lives and property hang in the balance.
4. Component Integrity
The tale of the five-year water pressure evaluation of a fire department connection is inextricably linked to the story of its constituent parts. Each coupling, valve, and length of pipe plays a crucial role in the systems overall performance, and the integrity of these components is paramount. The test is not simply about applying pressure; it is an assessment of the collective strength and resilience of the FDC’s very building blocks.
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Material Degradation
Imagine the harsh realities faced by these components: exposure to weather extremes, galvanic corrosion from dissimilar metals, and the constant stress of pressure fluctuations. Over five years, these forces can silently weaken materials, creating microscopic cracks or thinning pipe walls. The hydrostatic test acts as an accelerated stress test, pushing these weakened areas to their breaking point, revealing flaws that would otherwise remain hidden until a critical moment. For instance, a seemingly pristine brass coupling might harbor internal corrosion, undetectable to the naked eye, which the test exposes through a small, but significant, leak.
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Seal and Gasket Degradation
The FDC relies heavily on seals and gaskets to maintain watertight connections. These elements, typically made of rubber or synthetic materials, are susceptible to drying, cracking, and loss of elasticity over time. The hydrostatic test subjects these seals to sustained pressure, revealing any compromised areas. Picture a brittle gasket failing to maintain a seal under pressure, resulting in a steady drip. This signals the need for replacement, preventing a potentially catastrophic loss of water pressure during a fire.
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Valve Functionality and Corrosion
Valves are critical for directing water flow and isolating sections of the system. Over time, they can become corroded, stuck, or fail to seal properly. The hydrostatic test includes an assessment of valve functionality, ensuring they can withstand the test pressure without leaking or failing to operate smoothly. A malfunctioning check valve, for example, could allow backflow, compromising the water supply and potentially causing damage to the system.
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Thread and Coupling Integrity
The threaded connections and couplings that join the various components are potential weak points. Improper installation, corrosion, or mechanical damage can compromise their ability to withstand high pressure. The hydrostatic test stresses these connections, revealing any leaks or signs of impending failure. A damaged thread, weakened by overtightening or corrosion, might strip under pressure, resulting in a sudden and dangerous release of water.
These facets underscore the necessity of the five-year evaluation. It is not merely a formality, but a proactive measure to identify and address potential weaknesses in the system’s components. By rigorously testing these elements, the evaluation ensures that the FDC stands ready, a reliable lifeline when it is needed most. Without it, the building would be at a critical risk if a tragedy such as fire takes place.
5. Record keeping
The story of the five-year fire department connection hydrostatic test finds its lasting significance not merely in the act of testing itself, but in the diligent record-keeping that follows. The water pressure applied, the leaks detected, the components replaced these events, if undocumented, fade into the realm of forgotten anecdotes. It is the detailed record that transforms the transient act of testing into a lasting legacy of safety and accountability. A meticulous log, filled with dates, pressures, and observations, becomes the institutional memory of the fire protection system. Without it, future inspections are forced to start anew, each generation reinventing the wheel, unaware of past problems and solutions. Imagine a sprawling hospital, its FDC tested and deemed satisfactory, with no record of the event beyond a faded invoice. Five years later, a new team arrives to perform the next test. They are oblivious to the fact that the previous test revealed a slow leak in a buried section of pipe, patched but not fully repaired. The problem resurfaces, but without the historical context, the new team wastes valuable time and resources chasing down blind alleys. The lack of adequate records has transformed a manageable issue into a potential crisis.
Comprehensive record-keeping ensures that trends are identified and patterns emerge. A series of tests, documented with precision, reveals recurring problems, such as premature corrosion in specific areas or a tendency for certain valve types to fail. This knowledge allows for proactive intervention, preventing failures before they occur. A building owner, reviewing the records of their FDC tests, notices that the same coupling has required replacement during each of the last three evaluations. This signals a systemic problem, perhaps related to improper installation or incompatible materials. Armed with this information, the owner can initiate a more thorough investigation, preventing a potentially catastrophic failure. Furthermore, accurate records are invaluable during insurance claims or legal proceedings. In the event of a fire, detailed documentation of the FDC’s testing history provides concrete evidence of the building owner’s commitment to safety. Conversely, the absence of records creates doubt and uncertainty, potentially exposing the owner to significant liability.
In essence, record-keeping is the keystone that holds the arch of the five-year FDC hydrostatic test together. It transforms a snapshot in time into a continuous narrative of vigilance and responsibility. Without it, the test becomes a fleeting gesture, its value diminished and its lessons lost. The challenge lies not only in collecting data, but in organizing it in a manner that is accessible, understandable, and actionable. Embracing digital record-keeping systems, standardizing reporting formats, and fostering a culture of documentation are essential steps in ensuring that the five-year FDC hydrostatic test truly fulfills its purpose: safeguarding lives and property for years to come.
6. System readiness
The concept of “system readiness,” in the context of fire protection, culminates in the five-year hydrostatic test of fire department connections (FDCs). The test is more than an exercise in compliance; it is a decisive declaration on the operational viability of a critical lifeline. A building’s fire suppression system, meticulously designed and installed, rests its effectiveness on the integrity of the FDC. When a fire escalates beyond the capacity of the building’s internal resources, firefighters rely on the FDC to augment water supply, essentially breathing life into the system when it matters most. Without a fully functional FDC, the entire fire suppression strategy crumbles. Consider a high-rise apartment building during a winter storm. A faulty electrical outlet sparks a fire, quickly spreading through several floors. The building’s sprinkler system activates, but the fire overwhelms its capacity. Firefighters arrive, connect to the FDC, and discover a corroded check valve preventing adequate water flow. The delay, caused by the compromised FDC, allows the fire to intensify, trapping residents and causing extensive damage. This scenario vividly illustrates the dire consequences of a lack of system readiness, directly attributable to a failure to maintain the FDC.
The five-year hydrostatic test, therefore, serves as a rigorous assessment of system readiness. It subjects the FDC to pressures exceeding normal operating conditions, exposing hidden weaknesses and potential points of failure. The test uncovers corrosion, leaks, faulty valves, and other defects that could compromise the FDC’s performance during an actual fire. The process meticulously inspects components, confirms valve operation, and ensures that the entire assembly can withstand the demands of a high-pressure water supply. The test results, when properly documented and acted upon, provide a clear picture of the system’s state of readiness. Deficiencies are promptly addressed, ensuring that the FDC functions as intended when the call comes. The impact of the test extends beyond mere compliance; it is a direct investment in the safety of the building’s occupants and the effectiveness of firefighting efforts.
Ultimately, the five-year FDC hydrostatic test stands as a cornerstone of fire protection, a commitment to system readiness. It is a reminder that fire suppression is not a passive endeavor, but an ongoing process of maintenance, inspection, and testing. The challenges lie in ensuring that the tests are conducted properly, that deficiencies are addressed promptly, and that accurate records are maintained. By embracing these principles, building owners and fire safety professionals can transform the FDC from a mere connection into a dependable source of water, ready to respond when lives and property are threatened. This requires diligence, adherence to standards, and a deep understanding of the critical role system readiness plays in safeguarding communities.
7. Visual Inspection
The story of a successful five-year fire department connection hydrostatic test often begins long before the first drop of water is pumped through the system. It starts with a seemingly simple act: the visual inspection. This initial assessment, a meticulous examination of the FDC’s exterior, forms the crucial foundation upon which the entire testing process rests. A seemingly superficial glance can reveal a world of hidden vulnerabilities, clues that inform the subsequent hydrostatic test and ultimately determine the system’s readiness.
Consider the case of an old textile mill, converted into loft apartments. The FDC, a relic of a bygone era, stood silently against the brick facade, its brass fittings tarnished with age. Before the hydrostatic test began, a seasoned inspector noticed a hairline crack in one of the couplings, almost invisible to the untrained eye. Had the hydrostatic test proceeded without this initial visual check, the high-pressure water would have undoubtedly caused the coupling to fail catastrophically, potentially damaging the system and creating a dangerous situation. The visual inspection, in this instance, acted as a preventative measure, averting a potential disaster and allowing for a controlled repair before the full test commenced. The visible crack, like a whispered warning, averted a potentially catastrophic outcome, highlighting the critical role played by a thorough visual examination. It’s a proactive step, a method for spotting issues before they evolve into costly, dangerous problems.
The five-year FDC hydrostatic test’s integrity, therefore, is intrinsically linked to the visual inspection that precedes it. The visual assessment highlights potential issues, guiding the hydrostatic test with purpose and efficiency. By first scrutinizing the exterior, the process becomes more than a simple pressure check; it becomes a targeted investigation. The visual inspection allows for the timely identification and correction of problems, ensuring the system remains reliable when called into action. Without this preliminary step, the five-year test risks overlooking critical vulnerabilities, rendering the entire process less effective and potentially jeopardizing lives and property. It ensures the FDC, with its network of pipes and fittings, remains prepared to deliver its vital water supply when most needed.
8. Valve functionality
The five-year hydrostatic test of a fire department connection serves as a vital check on a fire suppression system’s preparedness. Within this process, valve functionality emerges as a critical focal point. These valves, often overlooked in the system’s overall design, are not merely passive components; they are the sentinels that regulate water flow, the gatekeepers that ensure the lifeblood of the system reaches its intended destination during an emergency. The hydrostatic test scrutinizes the function of each valve, from the main isolation valve to the check valve preventing backflow, exposing weaknesses that could render the entire system ineffective. Consider a scenario in a historic downtown building. The FDC, seemingly pristine, undergoes its five-year test. The hydrostatic pressure is applied, and all appears well until the technicians reach the check valve. It refuses to seat properly, allowing water to trickle back into the municipal water supply. This seemingly minor malfunction reveals a significant problem: the valve, corroded from years of disuse, would have failed to deliver the necessary water volume during an actual fire, potentially costing lives and destroying irreplaceable artifacts. This example underlines the causal relationship between valve functionality and the hydrostatic test’s overall value. A faulty valve renders the entire system compromised, while a properly functioning valve ensures its readiness.
Valve functionality testing, as part of the five-year protocol, often involves more than simply observing whether a valve opens and closes. It includes assessing the speed of actuation, verifying the tightness of the seal, and ensuring that the valve can withstand the high pressures expected during firefighting operations. The importance of each aspect cannot be overstated. Slow valve operation could delay water delivery, giving a fire crucial extra moments to spread. A leaky seal reduces water pressure, diminishing the effectiveness of sprinkler heads and hose streams. A valve that cannot tolerate high pressure risks catastrophic failure, potentially flooding the system and leaving firefighters with nothing to combat the blaze. The practical significance of this understanding extends beyond the testing process itself. It informs maintenance schedules, guiding building owners and facility managers in the proactive upkeep of their fire protection systems. Recognizing that valves are susceptible to corrosion, wear, and tear, a robust maintenance program that includes periodic inspection and lubrication becomes paramount.
Valve functionality constitutes a critical component of the five-year FDC hydrostatic test. A test is incomplete without assessing these key parts of the overall system. The reliability of the entire fire suppression system hinges on the ability of its valves to perform flawlessly under duress. Therefore, the emphasis on valve functionality in the five-year test must be maintained. This proactive, rigorous approach safeguards lives, preserves property, and guarantees the fire department connection serves as a reliable point of intervention for responding firefighters. The focus on the valves ensures their reliable performance in a real fire situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The realm of fire safety often involves navigating a complex web of regulations and procedures. This section addresses some common inquiries regarding the five-year evaluation of fire department connections via water pressure, clarifying its purpose and practical implications.
Question 1: What exactly is the purpose of this five-year FDC evaluation? It seems like a lot of trouble for something that just sits there unused.
Imagine a ship’s anchor, rarely deployed but vital in a storm. The five-year evaluation functions similarly. It verifies the FDC’s ability to withstand the pressures necessary to augment a building’s fire suppression system. Corrosion, wear, and hidden damage can render an FDC useless in an emergency. This evaluation identifies and mitigates these risks, ensuring that when firefighters connect to the FDC, they find a reliable source of water, not a compromised connection.
Question 2: How is the five-year water pressure evaluation performed? Can building personnel conduct this evaluation?
The process involves isolating the FDC, connecting a test pump, and gradually increasing the water pressure to a specific level, typically exceeding the system’s normal operating pressure. This pressure is maintained for a set period while technicians meticulously inspect for leaks, distortions, or other signs of weakness. Due to the specialized equipment, knowledge, and potential risks involved, this evaluation should only be performed by qualified and certified fire protection professionals.
Question 3: What happens if the five-year hydrostatic test reveals a leak or other problem with the FDC? Is the building immediately shut down?
A failed evaluation does not automatically trigger a building shutdown. The severity of the issue dictates the response. Minor leaks can often be repaired promptly, while more significant problems may necessitate temporary measures to ensure fire safety, such as increased fire watch patrols. The primary goal is to address the deficiency and restore the FDC to full operational status as quickly as possible, minimizing any potential risk.
Question 4: What is the cost to do the 5 year fdc hydrostatic test and who is responsible for covering it?
The cost associated with performing 5 year fdc hydrostatic test varies depending on the factors such as the size and complexity of the FDC system, the location of the building, and the service provider chosen. It is typically the responsibility of the building owner or property manager to cover the cost of testing, as it is a necessary part of maintenance to ensure the system is running safely and correctly.
Question 5: How long does the five-year water pressure evaluation typically take to complete? It seems like a major disruption.
The duration of the evaluation depends on the size and complexity of the FDC. For a straightforward system, the process may take only a few hours. Larger, more intricate systems can require a full day or more. While some disruption is unavoidable, qualified technicians strive to minimize the impact, coordinating with building personnel to schedule the evaluation at a convenient time and completing the work efficiently.
Question 6: What documentation is required after the five-year FDC evaluation? Is a simple “pass/fail” sufficient?
A simple “pass/fail” designation is insufficient. Comprehensive documentation is essential, including the date of the evaluation, the name of the testing company, the pressure levels applied, any leaks or deficiencies identified, and the corrective actions taken. This documentation serves as a permanent record of the FDC’s condition, providing valuable information for future inspections and maintenance activities. Such documentation must meet regulatory requirements and will be reviewed by various parties.
The five-year evaluation of fire department connections via water pressure is a vital component of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. By understanding its purpose, procedures, and implications, building owners and managers can ensure that their fire protection systems remain ready to respond when lives and property are at stake.
The subsequent section delves into real-world examples where diligent execution or neglect of the five-year FDC water pressure evaluation significantly impacted the outcome of fire events.
5 Year FDC Hydrostatic Test Tips
Effective fire safety hinges on the meticulous adherence to established protocols. The five-year fire department connection (FDC) hydrostatic test represents a crucial element in this framework. Neglecting critical aspects of this evaluation can have dire consequences. Consider these guidelines as a cautionary narrative, informed by hard-won experience.
Tip 1: Prioritize Thorough Visual Inspection. A seemingly insignificant crack or corroded fitting can presage catastrophic failure. Before initiating the pressure test, conduct a comprehensive visual assessment of all FDC components. Overlook no detail; a proactive inspection can prevent a dangerous and costly incident.
Tip 2: Adhere Rigorously to Pressure Specifications. Deviation from established pressure parameters invites disaster. Applying excessive pressure risks damaging the FDC components, creating latent weaknesses. Insufficient pressure, conversely, may fail to expose existing vulnerabilities. Consult NFPA 25 and local codes to ensure adherence to correct specifications.
Tip 3: Maintain Continuous Pressure Monitoring. A stable pressure reading is not a guarantee of integrity. Employ calibrated gauges and vigilant monitoring to detect subtle pressure drops that might indicate slow leaks. Neglecting this step can lead to a false sense of security, masking critical problems.
Tip 4: Document Every Detail Meticulously. The test is only as valuable as the documentation it produces. Record all observations, measurements, and corrective actions taken. A comprehensive record serves as a historical reference, aiding future inspections and legal defense in the event of a fire-related incident.
Tip 5: Engage Qualified Professionals Exclusively. The five-year FDC hydrostatic test demands specialized knowledge, equipment, and expertise. Entrusting the evaluation to unqualified personnel invites negligence and increases the risk of overlooking critical issues. Verify certifications and experience before engaging any service provider.
Tip 6: Confirm Isolation Valve Integrity. Ensure the isolation valve is fully functional prior to testing. A malfunctioning valve can result in inaccurate pressure readings and potential damage to the system during the test. This aspect warrants careful attention and verification.
Tip 7: Evaluate Valve Performance Post-Test. After successful pressure maintenance, evaluate the valves in the FDC system. Proper valve closure and operational control should be confirmed. Deficient or incorrect function results in additional inspection of the valves.
Adhering to these guidelines transforms the five-year FDC hydrostatic test from a mere regulatory obligation into a proactive safeguard. The vigilance it demands serves as an essential component of a comprehensive fire protection strategy. Its meticulous execution ensures the FDC remains a dependable lifeline when lives and property hang in the balance.
These practical tips are to be the standard in order to maintain fire prevention, the next section of this information deals with case studies of the FDC system when fire breaks down.
Conclusion
The preceding narrative has unfolded the multifaceted importance of the five-year FDC hydrostatic test. From compliance standards to the meticulous detection of minute leaks, each element plays a role in guaranteeing the availability of a crucial lifeline during a fire. A failure to appreciate or adhere to the necessary rigor surrounding this procedure can be a choice with dire consequences.
Consider it not as a mere regulatory requirement, but as an obligation to be conducted and adhered to. The water’s silence during a test is the potential savior if the actual fire exists to claim. Let us ensure every measure is enacted to guarantee that the five-year FDC hydrostatic test transforms from a simple check to a robust and life-saving precaution.
