How does NFPA 16 address corrosion control?

• A. It forbids maintenance on corrosion.
• B. It requires materials selection and maintenance practices that minimize corrosion due to foam concentrate or solution.
• C. It ignores corrosion concerns.
• D. It requires painting only exterior surfaces.

Answer: (B)

Corrosion control in foam-water systems is addressed by requiring materials selection and maintenance practices that minimize corrosion from foam concentrate or solution. Foam concentrates and the resulting solution can be corrosive to metals and elastomers used in piping, valves, and other components. NFPA 16 emphasizes choosing compatible materials and applying protective measures so components that contact the foam solution resist deterioration over time. It also requires ongoing maintenance activities—cleaning, flushing, inspection, and replacement of components showing signs of corrosion—to maintain system reliability. This combination of material compatibility and proactive maintenance is why the correct approach is to focus on both selecting corrosion-resistant materials and implementing maintenance practices to reduce corrosion risks. The other options don’t fit because the standard does not forbid maintenance, ignore corrosion concerns, or limit requirements to exterior painting.