Ul 789-1993

UL 789
ISBN 1-55989-303-6
Indicator Posts for Fire-

Protection Service
COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Licensed by Information Handling Services
MARCH 1,2000 - UL 789 trl
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)

333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook. IL 60062-2096
UL Standard for Safety for Indicator Posts for Fire-Protection Service, UL 789
Ninth Edition, Dated September 28,1993
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tr2 MARCH 1,2000 - UL 789
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MARCH 1,2000 - UL 789 tr3
the applicant elects this option, it should be noted that compliance with all the requirements in this
Standard will be required as a condition of continued Listing and Follow-Up Services after the effective
date, and understanding of this should be signified in writing.
Copyright O 2000 Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
This Standard consists of pages dated as shown in the following checklist:
Page Date
1-6B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1,2000

7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September28, 1993
8............................................................................... March 1,2000
9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September28, 1993
10-10B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1,2000
11-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February21, 1994
13-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1,2000

tr4 MARCH 1,2000 - UL 789
No Text on This Page

LAmerican National Standard
‘
SEPTEMBER 28, 1993 ANSI/UL 789-1993

(Title Page Reprinted: March 1, 2000)
UL 789
Standard for Indicator Posts for Fire-Protection Service
The First and Second editions were titled ”Standard for Indicator Posts” and
numbered UL 262C.
First Edition - March, 1931

Second Edition - May, 1951
Third Edition - June, 1966
Fourth Edition - May, 1971
Fifth Edition - January, 1975
Sixth Edition - July, 1976
Seventh Edition - July, 1982
Eighth Edition - June, 1987
Ninth Edition
September 28, 1993
Approval as an American National Standard (ANSI) covers the numbered

paragraphs on pages dated September 28, 1993 . These pages should not be
discarded when revised or additional pages are issued if it is desired to retain the
ANSI approved text.
An effective date included as a note immediately following certain requirements

is one established by Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
Approved as ANSI/UL 789-1987, December 17, 1986

Approved as ANSI/UL 789-1993, March 29, 1993
Revisions of this Standard will be made by issuing revised or additional pages

bearing their date of issue. A UL Standard is current only if it incorporates the
most recently adopted revisions, all of which are itemized on the transmittal notice
that accompanies the latest set of revised requirements.
ISBN 1-55989-303-6
COPYRIGHT O 1975 , 2000 UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES INC. I

2 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 MARCH 1,2000

MARCH 1. 2000 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE .UL 789 3
CONTENTS
FOREWORD ................................................................................ 4
INTRODUCTION
1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1 Units of measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.3 Undated references . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
CONSTRUCTION
3 Barrels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4 Caps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5 Operating Stems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5.2 Underground types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
6 Position Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
6.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
6.2 Rotating target mechanisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
6.3 Vertically moving target mechanisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
7 Extension Rods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
8 Handwheels and Wrenches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9 Locking and Sealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9A Polymeric Materials and Nonmetallic Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
PERFORMANCE
10 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10A
11 Strength of Parts Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1OA
12 Elastomeric Materials Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
12A Elastomeric Parts (Except Gaskets) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
12B Polymeric Parts Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12B.1 Air oven aging test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12B.2 Light and water test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12B.3 1000 cycle operation test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
MARKING
13 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

FOREWORD
A. This Standard contains basic requirements for products covered by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)
under its Follow-Up Service for this category within the limitations given below and in the Scope section
of this Standard. These requirements are based upon sound engineering principles, research, records of
tests and field experience, and an appreciation of the problems of manufacture, installation, and use
derived from consultation with and information obtained from manufacturers, users, inspection authorities,
and others having specialized experience. They are subject to revision as further experience and
investigation may show is necessary or desirable.
B. The observance of the requirements of this Standard by a manufacturer is one of the conditions of the
continued coverage of the manufacturer’s product.
C. A product which complies with the text of this Standard will not necessarily be judged to comply with
the Standard if, when examined and tested, it is found to have other features which impair the level of
safety contemplated by these requirements.
D. A product employing materials or having forms of construction which conflict with specific requirements
of the Standard cannot be judged to comply with the Standard. A product employing materials or having
forms of construction not addressed by this Standard may be examined and tested according to the intent
of the requirements and, if found to meet the intent of this Standard, may be judged to comply with the
Standard.
E. UL, in performing its functions in accordance with its objectives, does not assume or undertake to
discharge any responsibility of the manufacturer or any other party. The opinions and findings of UL
represent its professional judgment given with due consideration to the necessary limitations of practical
operation and state of the art at the time the Standard is processed. UL shall not be responsible to anyone
for the use of or reliance upon this Standard by anyone. UL shall not incur any obligation or liability for
damages, including consequential damages, arising out of or in connection with the use, interpretation of,
or reliance upon this Standard.
F. Many tests required by the Standards of UL are inherently hazardous and adequate safeguards for
personnel and property shall be employed in conducting such tests.

MARCH 1,2000 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 5
INTRODUCTION
1 Scope
1.1 These requirements cover indicator posts, including wall and underground types, for use in operating
valves of the inside-screw pattern and for indicating the position of the gates in such valves. Indicator
posts are primarily intended for use with valves controlling water supplies to sprinkler, deluge, water spray,
foam and standpipe systems used in private fire service where connections enter buildings.
1.2 Requirements for the installation and use of the indicator posts covered by this standard are included
in the following Standards of the National Fire Protection Association:
NFPA 11 Low Expansion Foam and Combined Agent Systems
NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems
NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems
NFPA 24 Installation of Private Fire Service Mains
1.3 A product that contains features, characteristics, components, materials, or systems new or different
from those covered by the requirements in this Standard, and that involves a risk of fire, electric shock, or
injury to persons shall be evaluated using the appropriate additional component and end-product
requirements to determine that the level of safety as originally anticipated by the intent of this Standard is
maintained. A product whose features, characteristics, components, materials, or systems conflict with
specific requirements or provisions of this Standard shall not be judged to comply with this Standard.
Where appropriate, revision of requirements shall be proposed and adopted in conformance with the
methods employed for development, revision, and implementation of this Standard.
1.3 revised March 1, 2000
2 General
2.1 Units of measurement
2.1.1 If a value for measurement is followed by a value in other units in parentheses, the second value
may be only approximate. The first stated value is the requirement.
2.2 Components
2.2.1 Except as indicated in 2.2.2, a component of a product covered by this standard shall comply with
the requirements for that component.
2.2.2 A component need not comply with a specific requirement that:
a) Involves a feature or characteristic not needed in the application of the component in the
product covered by this standard, or
b) Is superseded by a requirement in this standard.

2.2.3 A component shall be used in accordance with its recognized rating established for the intended
conditions of use.
2.2.4 Specific components are recognized as being incomplete in construction features or restricted in
performance capabilities. Such components are intended for use only under limited conditions, such as
certain temperatures not exceeding specified limits, and shall be used only under those specific conditions
for which they have been recognized.
2.3 Undated references
2.3.1 Deleted March 1, 2000
CONSTRUCTION
3 Barrels
3.1 The walls of a barrel shall be made of material having physical and corrosion resistant properties at
least equivalent to one of the following:
a) Gray iron extra-heavy soil pipe (0.25 inch nominal thickness) in accordance with the
Standard Specification for Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings, ASTM A74-93, for either the upper
or lower barrel;
b) Minimum 0.21-inch thick ductile iron in accordance with the Standard for Ductile Iron Pipe
Centrifugally Cast, for Water, ANSVAWWA C151/A21.51-96, for either the upper or lower barre
c) Schedule 40 steel pipe for either the upper or lower barrel in accordance with Standard
Specification for Pipe,'Steel, Black, and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless ASTM
A53-98 and the Standard Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded Steel Pipe ASTM A l 35-
97c;
d) Class 200 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe in accordance with the Standard for Polyvinyl
Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fabricated Fittings, 4 inch through 12 inch for Water
Distribution, AWWA C-900-97 for the lower barrel of indicator posts for underground use.
3.1 revised March 1. 2000
3.1.1 Ferrous materials having wall thickness less than those specified in 3.1 and provided with a
protective interior and exterior coating are capable of being used when determined to be equivalent using
comparative corrosion analysis.
3.1.1 added March 1, 2000
3.2 The inside diameter shall be nominally 4 inches (102 mm) at any point throughout its length. The
inside diameter at the bottom of the lower part shall be not less than 8 inches (203 mm) over the length
required to provide for clearance to the valve bonnet when attached to the valve flange.
3.3 The length of a barrel for an underground valve shall be such that the middle of the target windows
can be placed at least 30 inches (760 mm) above the "bury" line marked on the barrel.
3.4 If the length of a barrel for an underground valve is adjustable:
a) The upper part shall extend below the ground a distance of not less than 6 inches (152
mm).

MARCH 1,2000 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 6A
b) The means for connecting the upper and lower parts shall prevent dirt from entering inside
the barrel. Means for dirt entrance prevention may include the use of an "0"-ring seal installed
in a groove between the upper and lower parts of the barrel constructed to resist dislodgement;
having the upper barrel part telescope over the lower barrel part with the top of the lower part
extending above the "bury" line; or the like.
c) The parts shall be clamped together by two 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) diameter mild-steel
setscrews, complying with the Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping Components,
ASTM A105/A105M-87a, or having equivalent strength, placed one above the other in the upper
part. The lower part shall be arranged so as to prevent separation or rotation of the upper part.

6B INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 MARCH 1,2000

SEPTEMBER 28,1993 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 7
3.5 Prevention of separation may be accomplished by providing on the lower part either deeply spotted
holes for the ends of the setscrews or a series of horizontal ribs spaced the same distance apart as the
setscrews. Prevention of rotation may be accomplished by casting four vertical ribs on the exterior of the
lower part. Setscrews may also be used to prevent separation and rotation.
3.6 The upper part of a barrel for underground service shall be constructed so that there is no projection,
flange, taper, or roughness by which the action of frost may lift the part. A bead, if used to mark the "bury"
line, shall not be raised more than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) on the casting.
3.7 An indicator post shall be provided with a base flange for connection to the indicator-post flange
provided as part of the inside-screw gate valve. The indicator-post flange shall be drilled for four 5/8 inch
(15.9 mm) diameter mild-steel bolts, complying with the Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping
Components, ASTM A l OUA105M-87a, or having equivalent strength, placed at 90 degrees on a bolt
circle of 10-1/2 inches (267 mm) for valves up to and including 14 inches (356 mm).
3.8 The barrel for a wall-mounted indicator post shall be provided with an integral flange for bolting to the
outside of the wall. The flange shall provide for four 5/8 inch (15.9 mm) diameter mild-steel bolts,
complying with the Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping Components, ASTM
A105/A105M-87a, or having equivalent strength, placed at 90 degrees on a bolt circle of at least 10-1/2
inches (267 mm). The inside diameter of the barrel shall provide a minimum 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) clearance
between moving parts and the barrel.
4 Caps
4.1 A cap shall:
a) Be of weatherproof construction,
b) Be securely fastened to the barrel, such as by the use of two 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) diameter
mild-steel bolts complying with the Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping
Components, ASTM A l OUA105M-87a,
c) Furnish a bearing complying with the requirements of 5.1 . l , and
d) Provide means for lubrication of this bearing.
5 Operating Stems
5.1 General
5.1.1 An operating stem shall:
a) Turn freely in its bearing,
b) Not become clamped to its bearing by locknuts, and
c) Turn no matter what the position may be of any target nut, target, or other indicating
mechanism.
5.1.2 The size and length of thread on the operating stem or stem nut for operation of a moving-target
mechanism shall be such that the indicator post may be used interchangeably for all sizes of the particular
make of valve for which the post is designed.

5.2 Underground types
5.2.1 An operating stem and stem nut shall be made of material having the physical and corrosion
resistant properties at least equivalent to those complying with the Specification for Composition Bronze
or Ounce Metal Castings, ASTM B62-86, Copper Alloy No. 836, or the Specification for Free-Cutting
Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes for Use in Screw Machines, ASTM B16-85, brass or bronze, except that
materials not inherently resistant to corrosion, but otherwise equivalent, may be used if sealed in a
housing completely filled with a protective grease lubricant. A stem nut shall be cored at least 4 inches
(102 mm) deep to fit loosely over the extension rod.
5.2.2 The upper end of an operating stem nut shall be finished in a solid nut, 1-1/4 inches (31.8 mm)
square by 1 inch (25.4 mm) high, unless otherwise specifically ordered to have a different size and shape
to fit existing equipment.
5.2.3 The shape of the operating stem nut at the base of the nut shall form a cap of weatherproof
construction over the bearing area in the post cap.
6 Position Indicators
6.1 General
6.1.1 An indicator post shall provide a means for visually indicating the OPEN and SHUT positions of a
valve to which it is connected. The means provided shall consist of words appearing on movable targets
indicating OPEN and SHUT positions or provide equivalent visual indication of the valve position when
viewed from at least two positions 180 degrees apart.
6.1.2 The mechanical or other means used for positioning the visual indicators shall be operated in a
manner equivalent to that obtained by gearing to the operating stem or stem nut of the valve.
6.1.3 An indicator operating mechanism shall be constructed so that it will not be subject to
disarrangement in operation. The mechanism shall not limit the turning of the operating stem or stem nut.
6.1.4 Two window openings shall be provided on opposite sides of the barrel near its top for position
indicators of the movable-target type. Window openings shall be at least 1-1/4 inches (31.8 mm) high and
at least as wide as the word width plus the thickness of the window material, and shall be constructed to
show the targets clearly.
I 6.1.5 Windows for openings shall be of transparent material. When of glass, they shall be at least 1/2 inch
(12.7 mm) thick clear sheet or float glass conforming to Federal Specification DD-G-451-C. Glass shall be
held in place by a corrosion-resistant metallic ferrule or grating. When constructed of an acrylic or
polycarbonate material the minimum thickness shall be 1/8 inch.
6.1.5 revised March 1, 2000
6.1.6 Glass window material shall be protected with a grating of bars 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) wide and 1/4 inch
(6.4 mm) deep, arranged with one central horizontal bar and several vertical bars, the latter to come
between the target letters. There shall be a space of at least 1/4 inch between the grating and window
material.

SEPTEMBER 28,1993 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 9
6.1.7 Target-plate material shall be of aluminum or other equivalent light-colored weather- and
corrosion-resistant material.
6.1.8 The words OPEN and SHUT shall be used on targets, and each word shall be on a separate plate.
The letters shall be at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) high and raised at least 1/8 inch (3.2 mm). The words shall
be not less than 2-1/2 inches (63.5 mm) wide. The face of the letters shall be smoothly finished and shall
be 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) wide.
6.1.9 A target background shall be black.
6.1.10 When targets are adjusted as intended, the appropriate word shall be visible at both windows
when the valve is open or shut.
6.1.1 1 Target plates shall be interchangeable to suit valves opening either counterclockwise (right hand)
or clockwise (left hand).
6.2 Rotating target mechanisms
6.2.1 Threads and gears shall be made of material having the physical and corrosion resistant properties
at least equivalent to bronze complying with the Specification for Composition Bronze or Ounce Metal
Castings, ASTM B62-85, Copper Alloy No. 836, or brass complying with the Specification for Free-Cutting
Brass Rod, Bar, and Shapes for Use in Screw Machines, ASTM B16-85, except that materials not
inherently resistant to corrosion, but otherwise equivalent, may be used if sealed in a housing completely
filled with a protective grease lubricant. Where other moving parts are in contact outside of a
grease-lubricated housing, at least one shall be of brass or bronze.
6.2.2 If the post is adjustable for different sizes of valves, the words OPEN and SHUT shall be on
separate plates.
6.3 Vertically moving target mechanisms
6.3.1 Target nut threads shall be made of material having corrosion resistant properties at least
equivalent to brass or bronze.
6.3.2 Target plates shall be adjustable relative to each other to suit the number of turns required by the
different sizes of the make of valve for which the post is designed.
6.3.3 A target mechanism shall be such that, when adjusted as intended, the words OPEN or SHUT will
not show when the target nut travels off the thread at the top or bottom of the operating stem.
7 Extension Rods
7.1 An extension rod shall be made of material having physical properties at least equivalent to malleable
iron complying with the Specification for Cupola Malleable Iron, ASTM A l 97-79, or mild-steel complying
with the Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping Components, ASTM A l OUA105M-87a.
7.2 An extension rod shall be secured to the valve-stem nut in a manner permitting the axis of the
extension rod to swing in any direction at least 5 degrees off the vertical, thus allowing for nonalignment
of parts.

8 Handwheels and Wrenches
8.1 A wrench or a handwheel shall be provided with each indicator post.
8.2 A wrench shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) long, measured from the center of the operating
nut.
8.3 A handwheel shall be not less than 14 inches (356 mm) in outside diameter. A component that
secures a handwheel to the operating nut shall be constructed of high strength metal, such as mild steel.
9 Locking and Sealing
9.1 An indicator post shall permit the operating-stem nut to be sealed in the open or shut position to make
it necessary to break the seal before the operating-stem nut can be turned more than two complete turns,
or before a post cap can be removed.
9.2 If the method of sealing is by use of a common lead and twisted wire seal inserted through a hole in
the operating-stem nut, such hole shall be located so that the sealing wire will not become abraded or
broken by repeated applications of the wrench or handwheel to the operating nut during inspection testing
of the valve.
9.3 All holes for sealing wire shall be 3/32 inch (2.4 mm) diameter minimum.
9.4 A locking arrangement shall be furnished.
9A Polymeric Materials and Nonmetallic Parts
9A.1 A polymeric or other nonmetallic part, other than an " O ring, a window as described in 6.1.5, or
gasket, shall be evaluated on the basis of:
a) Mechanical strength, see Strength of Parts Test, Section 11;
b) Flammability, see 9A.2;
c) Resistance to deterioration due to aging, see Air Oven Aging Tests, 12B.1;
d) Exposure to light and water, see 12B.2;
e) Operation, see 1O00 Cycle Operation Test, 12B.3.
Exception: A lower barrel complying with 3.l(d) is not required to comply with 9A. 1 (b), (c), (d), and (e).
9A.1 added March 1, 2000
9A.2 With reference to flammability, polymeric materials shall be classified as Type HB, V-O, V-1, V-2,
5VA, or 5VB when tested in accordance with the Standard for Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials
for Parts in Devices and Appliances, UL 94. Other nonmetallic materials shall have equivalent
characteristics.
9A.2 added March 1, 2000

MARCH 1,2000 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 1OA
PERFORMANCE
10 General
10.1 Representative samples of each indicator-post design shall be subjected to the Strength of Parts
Test, Section 11.
11 Strength of Parts Test
11.1 An indicator-post assembly, including the barrel, cap, operating stem, stem nut, extension rod, and
wrench or handwheel shall withstand, without damage, the turning effort specified in Table 11.1 applied
through the wrench or handwheel regularly furnished with the post. The higher torque requirements shall
apply in cases where the post is intended for use with both wrench and handwheel.

1OB INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 MARCH 1,2000

FEBRUARY 21,1994 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 11
Table 11.1
Torque requirements
Wrench length, Handwheel diameter, Minimum torque,

inches Immì inches (mm) foot-pounds (N*m)
- 260 (352)
- 325 (440)
14 (356) 450 (610)
16 (407) 640 (867)
18 (457) 900 (1220)
11.2 The indicator post is to be bolted in place in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation
instructions. A wall-type indicator is to be supported primarily by its wall flange, while an underground-type
indicator is to be bolted to a rigidly supported flange representing the flange furnished for this purpose as
part of an inside screw valve. The underground-type post may also be supported at the intended ground
or ”bury” line.
11.3 The extension-rod coupling or other means normally engaging the nut of the valve to be operated
by the indicator post is to be secured against turning.
11.4 The turning force is to be applied using a torque wrench strapped or otherwise secured to the
regular handwheel or wrench furnished with the post.
11.5 The turning force is to be applied both in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions and is to be
maintained at the value designated in Table 11.1 for not less than 1 minute for each application of the
force.
12 Elastomeric Materials Test

12 deleted February 21, 1994

12 INDICATOR POSTS FOR FIRE-PROTECTION SERVICE - UL 789 FEBRUARY 21,1994
12A Elastomeric Parts (Except Gaskets) Test
12A.1 An elastomeric part used to provide a seal shall have the following properties when tested as
specified in the Standard for Gaskets and Seals, UL 157:
a) For silicone rubber (having poly-organo-siloxane as its constituent characteristic), a minimum

tensile strength of 500 psi (3.4 MPa) and a minimum ultimate elongation of 100 percent.
b) For natural rubber and synthetic rubber other than silicone rubber, a minimum tensile strength
of 1500 psi (10.3 MPa) and minimum ultimate elongation of 150 percent; or a minimum tensile
strength of 2200 psi (15.2 MPa) and a minimum ultimate elongation of 100 percent.
c) Those properties relating to maximum tensile set; minimum tensile strength and elongation
after oven aging; and hardness after oven aging, all as specified in UL 157. The maximum service
temperature used to determine the oven time and temperature for oven aging is considered to be
60°C.
12A.1 added February 21, 1994
12A.2 The Standard for Gaskets and Seals, UL 157, provides for the testing of either finished elastomeric
parts or sheet or slab material. Sheet or slab material is to be tested when the elastomeric parts are
O-rings having diameters of less than 1 inch (25.4 mm). The material tested is to be the same as that used
in the product, regardless of whether finished elastomeric parts or sheet or slab material is tested.
12A.2 added February 21, 1994

12B Polymeric Parts Tests
12B.1 Air oven aging test
12B.l.l Following air-oven aging for 180 days at 121°C (250"F), there shall be no warping, creeping, or
other signs of deterioration of a polymeric component that precludes the intended operation of the
indicator post. There shall be no cracking of any polymeric component. A valve with aged polymeric
components shall demonstrate intended performance when subjected to the Strength of Part Test,
Section 11 and the 1000 Cycle Operation Test, 12B.3.
12B.1.1 added March 1, 2000
12B.1.2 A complete assembly, including the polymeric parts, and sample polymeric components to be
aged are to be supported in a full-draft, circulating-air oven that has been preheated at full draft, to 121
I 1"C (250 I 1BOF). The manner of support is to be such that the samples are prevented from touching
one another or the sides of the oven. The samples are to be aged for 180 days at full draft and then
allowed to cool in air at 23 I 2 " C (73.4 I3.6"F) for at least 24 hours before conducting any test or
dimensional check. As used in this test, the term "full draft" refers to the air flow over the samples in the
oven with the air inlet and outlets fully open. The oven used for accelerated aging is to be Type IIA as
specified in the Standard Specification for Gravity-Convection and Forced-Ventilation Ovens, ASTM
E l 45-68( 1987).
12B.1.3 When a polymeric material is not capable of withstanding the temperature indicated without
softening, distortion, or deterioration, an air-oven aging test at a lower temperature, minimum 87°C
(189"F), for a longer period of time shall be used. When a material is capable of withstanding a higher
temperature than that specified in 12B.1 without excessive softening, distortion, or deterioration, an
air-oven aging test at a higher temperature for a shorter period of time, but not less than 45 days, is to be
applied. The duration of exposure is to be calculated using the following equation:
D = (790000)e~0~0693f
in which:
D is the test duration in days; and
t is the test temperature in "C.

12B.2 Light and water test
12B.2.1 There shall be no cracking of a polymeric part following exposure to ultraviolet light and water for
720 hours. Aged samples of the part shall perform as intended when subjected to the Strength of Parts
Test, Section 11, and the 1000 Cycle Operation Test, 12B.3.
12B.2.2 The ultraviolet light is to be obtained from two stationary enclosed carbon-arc lamps. The arc of
each lamp is to be formed between two vertical carbon electrodes, 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in diameter, located
at the center of a revolvable vertical metal cylinder, 31 inches (787 mm) in diameter and 17-3/4 inches
(450 mm) in height. Each arc is to be enclosed with a No. 9200-PX clear Pyrex glass globe. The samples
are to be mounted vertically on the inside of the revolvable cylinder, facing the lamps, and the cylinder
continuously revolved around the stationary lamps at one revolution per minute. A system of nozzles is to
be provided so that each sample, in turn, is sprayed with water as the cylinder revolves. During each

operating cycle (total of 20 minutes) each sample is to be exposed to the light and water spray for 3
minutes and to the light only for 17 minutes. The air temperature within the revolving cylinder of the
apparatus during operation is to be 145 I 9 " F (63 I5"C).
12B.3 1000 cycle operation test
12B.3.1 An indicator post assembly, containing polymeric parts which experience stress as a result of
operation, shall operate as intended for 1000 cycles without malfunction or damage after being subjected
to the exposures specified in 12B.1 and 12B.2.
12B.3.2 The indicator post shall be operated 1000 times from fully open to fully closed.
MARKING
13 General
13.1 An indicator post shall be marked with the following:
a) Manufacturer's or private labeler's name or identifying symbol.
b) Distinctive model number, catalog designation, identification mark, or the equivalent.
c) The direction of rotation to open the valve.
13.2 The markings specified in 13.1 (a) and (b) shall be:
a) In raised cast letters and figures at least 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) high and raised not less than
1/16 inch (1.6 mm),
b) On a permanently-mounted etched or stamped brass or equivalently corrosion resistant

metal nameplate, having letters at least 3/16 inch (4.76 mm) high and at least 0.005 inch (0.13
mm) deep, or
c) Applied by a method that provides equivalent permanence. The markings shall be located
above the "bury" line at a location so as to be readily discernible and legible following
installation.
13.3 The "bury" line shall be marked by means equivalent in permanency to enamel paint.
13.4 The marking for direction of rotation shall consist of the word OPEN cast in letters at least 1/2 inch
(12.7 mm) high and raised 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) on the post-cap casting, and an arrow showing the direction
of rotation.
13.5 The above markings shall be placed to provide space on the top castings for stenciling or for
otherwise marking the post vertically with the service that the valve controls as, for example, the name or
number of a building.

13.6 If a manufacturer produces indicator posts at more than one factory, each post shall have a
distinctive marking to identify it as the product of a particular factory.



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UL 789

Indicator Posts for Fire-

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)

Ninth Edition, Dated September 28,1993

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Copyright O 2000 Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

This Standard consists of pages dated as shown in the following checklist:

1-6B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1,2000

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

No Text on This Page

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

SEPTEMBER 28, 1993 ANSI/UL 789-1993

Standard for Indicator Posts for Fire-Protection Service

First Edition - March, 1931

September 28, 1993

Approval as an American National Standard (ANSI) covers the numbered

An effective date included as a note immediately following certain requirements

Approved as ANSI/UL 789-1987, December 17, 1986

Revisions of this Standard will be made by issuing revised or additional pages

COPYRIGHT O 1975 , 2000 UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES INC. I

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

No Text on This Page

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

NFPA 11 Low Expansion Foam and Combined Agent Systems

NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 14 Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems

NFPA 24 Installation of Private Fire Service Mains

2.1 Units of measurement

2.2.2 A component need not comply with a specific requirement that:

b) Is superseded by a requirement in this standard.

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

2.3 Undated references

2.3.1 Deleted March 1, 2000

3.4 If the length of a barrel for an underground valve is adjustable:

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

No Text on This Page

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

4.1 A cap shall:

c) Furnish a bearing complying with the requirements of 5.1 . l , and

d) Provide means for lubrication of this bearing.

5.1.1 An operating stem shall:

a) Turn freely in its bearing,

b) Not become clamped to its bearing by locknuts, and

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

5.2 Underground types

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

6.1.9 A target background shall be black.

6.2 Rotating target mechanisms

6.3 Vertically moving target mechanisms

COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

8 Handwheels and Wrenches

8.1 A wrench or a handwheel shall be provided with each indicator post.

9 Locking and Sealing

9.4 A locking arrangement shall be furnished.

9A Polymeric Materials and Nonmetallic Parts

a) Mechanical strength, see Strength of Parts Test, Section 11;

b) Flammability, see 9A.2;

d) Exposure to light and water, see 12B.2;