What is the minimum required water flow for a Class I standpipe system?

The minimum required water flow for a Class I standpipe system is established to ensure adequate fire protection and efficient firefighting capabilities, primarily designed for use by firefighters. The 250 gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate is based on standards that provide sufficient pressure and volume to suppress fires effectively in larger occupancy and high-rise buildings typically served by Class I systems.

Class I standpipes are intended to support firefighters using a 2.5-inch hose connection and are usually found in commercial and industrial buildings. The 250 GPM minimum allows for multiple hose lines to be deployed simultaneously during firefighting operations, ensuring that responders have the necessary resources to combat potential fire incidents efficiently.

The other flow rates do not reflect the established minimum requirement for Class I standpipes, which is specifically set at 250 GPM to meet operational needs for fire suppression while balancing system capacities and water supply considerations.