What is the primary use of a Class I standpipe?

The primary use of a Class I standpipe is indeed for building occupants until fire department arrival. Class I standpipes are designed to provide a means for trained personnel, typically fire personnel, to connect and utilize firefighting hoses. However, they can also be operated by building occupants who are trained in their use, allowing them to tackle small fires or maintain safety until professional firefighting teams arrive on the scene.

This capability is particularly important in large or multi-story buildings, where immediate access to fire suppression tools can be crucial for life safety. The intent is to empower occupants within the structure to respond effectively to a fire emergency using the available standpipe system before professional responders can take charge of the situation.

In contrast, other options focus on uses that do not align with the primary design and purpose of a Class I standpipe. Fire department use only would limit the access unnecessarily, while testing fire suppression systems pertains to a different context focused on ensuring operational integrity rather than immediate firefighting. Similarly, maintenance personnel use does not encompass the primary goal of enhancing fire safety for occupants during an emergency.