Fire Commission adopts administrative bulletin requiring locking caps on new sprinkler/standpipe inlets

The San Francisco Fire Commission unanimously adopted an update to Administrative Bulletin 4.05 that authorizes the use of specially designed locking caps on three‑inch fire department inlet connections for new construction and offers a voluntary standpipe lock for interior stairwells.

Assistant Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Ken Coughlin told commissioners the caps were specifically manufactured to fit San Francisco inlet sizes and include a swivel guard to prevent theft and vandalism. He said the inlet cap will be issued and secured by the Bureau of Fire Prevention but ordered and paid for by property owners. Coughlin provided ballpark costs: about $325 for exterior outlet caps and approximately $700–$725 for the heavy interior standpipe lock.

"Without a cap on it, obviously people put various debris in there, cans, trash, cigarette butts... so when our units pull up there's a chance that it may not be operable for them," Coughlin said, explaining the safety rationale. The bulletin requires the inlet cap for new buildings with sprinkler or standpipe systems; the interior standpipe block remains voluntary for property owners who request it.

Commissioners asked whether every responding engine would carry the key; Coughlin said keys will be distributed to every engine and truck and the expectation will be that keys are available with other standpipe equipment on scene.

The commission voted to adopt the bulletin after a motion and second; adoption was announced as unanimous. Staff said property owners will order units from the manufacturer (Knox) via a link on the department website and then call Bureau of Fire Prevention for installation and verification.