Contractor Training Event Richardson

2-Day Sprinkler System Training Event

Hands-On & Classroom Learning for Fire Protection Contractors

Join us at the AFSA Fire Sprinkler Lab in Richardson, TX for an immersive two-day training focused on real-world sprinkler system installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance. This instructor-led program combines hands-on lab experience with practical classroom instruction aligned to NFPA standards.

Event Details

What: Sprinkler System Training
When: Monday–Tuesday, May 18–19, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM each day
Where:
AFSA Training Facility
1410 E. Renner Rd., Suite 150
Richardson, TX 75082

Space is limited. Registration closes Friday, May 8, 2026.


Continuing Education

CEUs and certificates available for attendees with an AFSA account (AFSA account required prior to training).

Full Training Details

LAB DAY

Participants dive into the common components and functional intricacies of wet, dry, preaction, and deluge systems. Gain a more in-depth understanding of how these systems work, as well as the required ITM tasks necessary to keep these systems functional through lecture-based presentations, guided discussion, demonstrations, and supplemental hands-on activities. Participants will also discuss the various types of sprinklers they may see in the field.

Witness a spray demonstration to facilitate understanding of spray patterns, obstructions, and ITM issues. Explore the requirements for sprinkler ITM and engage in practical application discussions. The day concludes by delving into the requirements for internal inspections and obstruction investigations.

MODULE 1: COMMON COMPONENTS, TYPES OF SYSTEMS, HANDS-ON TIME (5 hr.)

  1. Wet Systems
    1. Parts and Pieces
    2. Frequencies
    3. Alarm Test
    4. Main Drain Test
    5. Control Valve Test
    6. Open Hands-on Time
  2. Dry Systems
    1. Parts and Pieces
    2. Partial Trip Test
    3. Full Trip Test
    4. Alarm Bypass
    5. Dry System Reset
    6. Drum-Drip Draining
    7. QOD Demonstration
  3. Deluge Systems
    1. Parts and Pieces
    2. Sequence of Operations Demonstration
    3. ITM Frequencies
  4. Preaction Systems
    1. Parts and Pieces
    2. Sequence of Operations Demonstration
    3. ITM Frequencies

MODULE 2: SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (2 hr.)

  1. Introduction to Sprinklers
    1. Parts and Pieces
    2. Sprinkler Types
    3. Spray Demonstration
  2. Chapter 5 Requirements (NFPA 25)
    1. Inspection
    2. Testing
    3. Maintenance

MODULE 3: INTERNAL ASSESSMENTS AND OBSTRUCTION INVESTIGATIONS (1 hr.)

  1. Scenarios That Trigger an Obstruction Investigation
  2. Required Locations to Inspect During an Obstruction Investigation
  3. Requirements for Internal Assessments
  4. Sources of Obstructions

CLASSROOM DAY


JCI FOAM PRESENTATION (2 hr.) [CEUs not available for this course]

  1. Fluorinated Foam Legislation Update
  2. Non-Fluorinated Alternatives — The Basics
  3. JCI NFF Solutions
    1. UL201 — UL Listed Municipal Agent (Limited Fixed System)
    2. NFF-331 — UL Listed Fixed System Agent
    3. NFF-332 — FM Approved Fixed System Agent
    4. NFF-3H — UL Listed Fixed System Agent (Hydrocarbons Only)
  4. Industry Challenges
  5. NFF Transition Guidelines

INSTALLATION OF SYSTEM COMPONENTS (1 hr.)

This section details the requirements for system components and hardware per NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. It describes required components and the importance of proper installation. Specific topics include sprinklers, piping, provisions for flushing, air vents, control valves, drainage, and fire department connections (FDCs).

  • Identify the components required for wet, dry, preaction, and deluge systems
  • Understand and apply the requirements for air vents
  • Identify the required connection location for FDCs based on system type and arrangement

ANTIFREEZE FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (2 hr.)

This section provides an in-depth discussion of the requirements for antifreeze when used in sprinkler systems. A brief history of antifreeze in the standards is reviewed, followed by an overview of listing and installation requirements. Fluid characteristics, including impacts on hydraulics due to viscosity and thermal expansion, are discussed. The module concludes with inspection, testing, maintenance requirements, and replacement options for non-listed antifreeze.

  • Determine when freeze protection is required for sprinkler systems
  • Understand the history of antifreeze and why listed antifreeze is required
  • Identify key characteristics evaluated for antifreeze listing
  • Identify available listed antifreezes and their limitations
  • Apply installation requirements to mitigate backflow and thermal expansion
  • Apply hydraulic conversions for antifreeze systems exceeding 40 gallons
  • Apply requirements for identification and signage
  • Determine required inspections and tests for antifreeze systems
  • Identify which antifreeze solutions must be replaced versus those permitted to remain in service

NFPA 25 ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES (2 hr.)

This module reviews the roles and responsibilities of the property owner, AHJ, and service provider as defined in NFPA 25. It includes a detailed review of property owner responsibilities outlined in Chapter 4, required AHJ interactions, and service provider duties. The session concludes with an examination of the characteristics and responsibilities of today’s inspector. This discussion benefits property owners, AHJs, contractors, and inspectors.

  • Define and describe stakeholders referenced in NFPA 25
  • Locate and explain the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder
  • Explain the characteristics and duties of the individual inspector
  • Identify how stakeholders interact to ensure the mission and purpose of NFPA 25 is fulfilled

Travel & Accommodations (Provided by Johnson Controls)

Hotel Stay (Sunday, 5/17 - Wednesday, 5/20):

Drury Plaza Hotel Dallas Richardson
165 West CityLine Drive
Richardson, TX 75082

Transportation:

Complimentary shuttle between hotel and training facility

Meals (Monday, May 18 & Tuesday, May 19):

Breakfast: Hotel
Lunch: AFSA Training Facility
Dinner: Catered at hotel

For dietary restrictions or travel concerns, contact
Kristen Motz - kristen.motz@jci.com