Can antifreeze be used in a standpipe according to NFPA 14?

Antifreeze should not be used in a standpipe system according to NFPA 14 standards. This standard specifies the design and installation requirements for standpipe and hose systems, ensuring they are effective and reliable for fire protection. The use of antifreeze introduces potential risks, including the possibility of contamination or creating a situation where the system might not function properly during a fire emergency.

Standpipes are required to deliver a steady and consistent flow of water to extinguish fires effectively, and the inclusion of materials like antifreeze could compromise their operational integrity. NFPA 14 mandates that standpipe systems maintain a clear, pressurized water supply free from additives that may affect performance. In situations where external factors (like extreme cold) threaten the functionality of a water-based system, alternate strategies must be employed that align with the standards, rather than resorting to antifreeze solutions. Thus, reinforcing the framework established by NFPA 14, antifreeze is prohibited in standpipe systems for safety and operability reasons.