4101:1-9-01 Fire protection systems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4101:1-9-01  Fire protection systems.

 

[Comment: When a reference is made within this rule to a federal statutory provision, an industry consensus standard, or any other technical publication, the specific date and title of the publication as well as the name and address of the promulgating agency are listed in rule 4101:1-35-01 of the Administrative Code. The application of the referenced standards shall be limited and as prescribed in section 102.5 of rule 4101:1-1-01 of the Administrative Code.]

 

SECTION 901 GENERAL

 

901.1Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall specify where fire protection systems are required and shall apply to the design, installation and operation of fire protection systems.

901.2Fire protection systems. Fire protection systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance with this code and the fire code.

Any fire protection system for which an exception or reduction to the provisions of this code has been granted shall be considered to be a required system.

Exception: Any fire protection system or portion thereof not required by this code shall be permitted to be installed for partial or complete protection provided that such system meets the requirements of this code.

901.2.1Approval of fire protection systems. Prior to the start of fire protection system installation, alteration, repair, or removal, the owner or the owner's agent shall make application and obtain plan approval from the building official for the proposed work in accordance with Section 106 of the building code.

901.2.1.1Input from the fire official. In jurisdictions where the local fire official has requested the opportunity to provide input into the fire  protection system approval process conducted by the building official, the owner or the owner's agent is required to submit a copy of construction  documents related to fire protection to the local fire official for review in accordance with Section 106.1.2 (5).

901.2.1.2Coordination.  When the building official or the fire official has  indicated an intention to have personnel witness acceptance testing  conducted in accordance with Section 901.5, it is the responsibility of the  owner or the owner's representative to provide advance notice of when  the test are scheduled to both the building official and the fire official.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

901.3Modifications. No person shall remove or modify any fire  protection system installed or maintained under the provisions of this code or the fire code  without approval by the building official.

901.4Threads. Threads provided for fire department connections to sprinkler systems, standpipes, yard hydrants or any other fire hose connection shall be compatible with the connections used by the local fire department.

901.5Acceptance tests. Fire protection systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of this code, the fire code, and the applicable standards referenced in this code. Required acceptance tests shall be conducted at the expense of the owner or the owner's representative. The building official may require that the acceptance tests be conducted in the presence of a certified building inspector or certified fire protection inspector. Test results shall be documented and certificates shall be submitted to the building official upon completion. Copies of test records and certificates shall also be maintained at the jobsite and made available to the inspector conducting the fire protection systems final inspections. It shall be unlawful to occupy portions of a structure until the required fire protection systems within that portion of the structure have been tested, inspected, and approved. 

901.6Supervisory service. Where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by an supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.

901.6.1Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 903.4.

901.6.2Fire alarm systems. Fire alarm systems required by the provisions of Section 907.2 of this code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.5.

901.6.3Group H. Manual fire alarm, automatic fire-extinguishing and emergency alarm systems in Group H occupancies shall be monitored by an approved supervising station.

Exception: When approved by the building official, on-site monitoring at a constantly attended location shall be permitted provided that notifications to the fire department will be equal to those provided by an approved supervising station.

901.7Fire areas. Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire areas shall be separated by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both, having a fire-resistance rating of not less than that determined in accordance with Section 707.3.9.

901.8 Welding and brazing. Welding and brazing of all metallic fire protection piping shall be done in accordance with Section 313 of the mechanical code.

SECTION 902 DEFINITIONS

902.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter, and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker, light or text display that provides audible, tactile or visible outputs, or any combination thereof.

ALARM SIGNAL. A signal indicating an emergency requiring immediate action, such as a signal indicative of fire.

ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE. A feature of automatic fire detection and alarm systems to reduce unwanted alarms wherein smoke detectors report alarm conditions for a minimum period of time, or confirm alarm conditions within a given time period, after being automatically reset, in order to be accepted as a valid alarm-initiation signal.

ANNUNCIATOR. A unit containing one or more indicator lamps, alphanumeric displays or other equivalent means in which each indication provides status information about a circuit, condition or location.

AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of hearing.

AUTOMATIC. As applied to fire protection devices, a device or system providing an emergency function without the necessity for human intervention and activated as a result of a predetermined temperature rise, rate of temperature rise or combustion products.

AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. An approved system of devices and equipment which automatically detects a fire and discharges an approved fire-extinguishing agent onto or in the area of a fire.

AUTOMATIC SMOKE DETECTION SYSTEM. A fire alarm system that has initiation devices that utilize smoke detectors for protection of an area such as a room or space with detectors to provide early warning of fire.

AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM. An automatic sprinkler system, for fire protection purposes, is an integrated system of underground and overhead piping designed in accordance with fire protection engineering standards. The system includes a suitable water supply. The portion of the system above the ground is a network of specially sized or hydraulically designed piping installed in a structure or area, generally overhead, and to which automatic sprinklers are connected in a systematic  pattern.  The  system  is  usually  activated  by  heat  from  a  fire  and

discharges water over the fire area.

AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL. The root mean square, A-weighted sound pressure level measured over a 24-hour period, or the time any person is present, whichever time period is less.

CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS. A system supplying carbon dioxide (CO2) from a pressurized vessel through fixed pipes and nozzles. The system includes a manual- or automatic-actuating mechanism.

CEILING LIMIT. The maximum concentration of an air-borne contaminant to which one may be exposed, as published in DOL 29 CFR Part 1910.1000.   CLEAN   AGENT.   Electrically   nonconducting,   volatile   or   gaseous   fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.

CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. A designated location at a facility staffed by trained personnel on a continuous basis where alarm or supervisory signals are monitored and facilities are provided for notification of the fire department or other emergency services.

DELUGE SYSTEM. A sprinkler system employing open sprinklers attached to a piping system connected to a water supply through a valve that is opened by the operation of a detection system installed in the same areas as the sprinklers. When this valve opens, water flows into the piping system and discharges from all sprinklers attached thereto.

DETECTOR, HEAT. A fire detector that senses heat- either abnormally high temperature or rate of rise, or both.

DRAFT CURTAIN. A structure arranged to limit the spread of smoke and heat along the underside of the ceiling or roof.

DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. A powder composed of small particles, usually of sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, urea-potassium- based bicarbonate, potassium chloride or monoammonium phosphate, with added particulate material supplemented by special treatment to provide resistance to packing, resistance to moisture absorption (caking) and the proper flow capabilities.

ELEVATOR GROUP. A grouping of elevators in a building located adjacent or directly across from one another that responds to a common hall call button(s).                            EMERGENCY  ALARM  SYSTEM.  A  system  to  provide  indication  and warning of emergency situations involving hazardous materials.

EMERGENCY VOICE/ALARM COMMUNICATIONS.  Dedicated  manual or automatic facilities for originating and distributing voice instructions, as well as alert and evacuation signals pertaining to a fire emergency, to the occupants of a building.

FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL. See "Manual fire alarm box."

FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT. A system component that receives inputs from automatic and manual fire alarm devices and may be capable of supplying

power to detection devices and transponder(s) or off-premises transmitter(s). The control unit may be capable of providing a transfer of power to the notification appliances and transfer of condition to relays or devices.

FIRE ALARM SIGNAL. A signal initiated by a fire alarm-initiating device such as a manual fire alarm box, automatic fire detector, waterflow switch or other device whose activation is indicative of the presence of a fire or fire signature.   FIRE  ALARM  SYSTEM.  A  system  or  portion  of  a  combination  system consisting of components and circuits arranged to monitor and annunciate the status of fire alarm or supervisory signal-initiating devices and to initiate the appropriate response to those signals.

FIRE AREA. The aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls, fire barriers, exterior walls or horizontal assemblies of a building. Areas of the building not provided with surrounding walls shall be included in the fire area if such areas are included within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor next above.

FIRE COMMAND CENTER. The principal attended or unattended location where the status of detection, alarm communications and control systems is displayed, and from which the system(s) can be manually controlled.

FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. A device designed to detect the presence of a fire signature and to initiate action.

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. Approved devices, equipment and systems or combinations of systems used to detect a fire, activate an alarm, extinguish or control a fire, control or manage smoke and products of a fire or any combination thereof.

FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS. Building and fire control functions that are intended to increase the level of life safety for occupants or to control the spread of harmful effects of fire.

FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A special system discharging a foam made from concentrates, either mechanically or chemically, over the area to be protected.

HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A fire-extinguishing system using one or more atoms of an element from the halogen chemical series: fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.

INITIATING DEVICE. A system component that originates transmission of a change-of-state condition, such as in a smoke detector, manual fire alarm box or supervisory switch.

MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX. A manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal.

MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE. Two or more single-station alarm devices that are capable of interconnection such that actuation of one causes all integral or separate audible alarms to operate. It also can consist of one single-

station alarm device having connections to other detectors or to a manual fire alarm box.

MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. Two or more single-station alarm devices that are capable of interconnection such that actuation of one causes the appropriate alarm signal to operate in all interconnected alarms.   NOTIFICATION ZONE. See "Zone, notification."

NUISANCE ALARM. An alarm caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation or lack of proper maintenance, or an alarm activated by a cause that cannot be determined.

RECORD DRAWINGS. Drawings ("as builts") that document the location of all devices, appliances, wiring sequences, wiring methods and connections of the components of a fire alarm system as installed.

SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. An assembly incorporating the detector, the control equipment and the alarm-sounding device in one unit, operated from a power supply either in the unit or obtained at the point of installation.

SMOKE ALARM. A single-or multiple-station alarm responsive to smoke.   SMOKE DETECTOR. A listed device that senses visible or invisible particles of combustion.

SMOKEPROOF ENCLOSURE. An exit stairway designed and constructed so that the movement of the products of combustion produced by a fire occurring in any part of the building into the enclosure is limited.

STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF. Standpipe classes are as follows:

Class I system. A system providing 2 ½ -inch (64 mm) hose connections to supply water for use by fire departments and those trained in handling heavy fire streams.

Class II system. A system providing 1 ½ -inch (38 mm) hose stations to supply water for use primarily by the building occupants or by the fire department during initial response.

Class III system. A system providing 1 ½ -inch (38 mm) hose stations to supply water for use by building occupants and 2 ½ -inch (64 mm) hose connections to supply a larger volume of water for use by fire departments and those trained in handling heavy fire streams.

STANDPIPE, TYPES OF. Standpipe types are as follows:

Automatic dry. A dry standpipe system, normally filled with pressurized air, that is arranged through the use of a device, such as dry pipe valve, to admit water into the system piping automatically upon the opening of a hose valve. The water supply for an automatic dry standpipe system shall be capable of supplying the system demand.

Automatic wet. A wet standpipe system that has a water supply that is capable of supplying the system demand automatically.

Manual dry. A dry standpipe system that does not have a permanent water supply attached to the system. Manual dry standpipe systems require water from a fire department pumper to be pumped into the system through the fire department connection in order to meet the system demand.

Manual wet. A wet standpipe system connected to a water supply for the purpose of maintaining water within the system but does not have a water supply capable of delivering the system demand attached to the system. Manual-wet standpipe systems require water from a fire department pumper (or the like) to be pumped into the system in order to meet the system demand.

Semiautomatic dry. A dry standpipe system that is arranged through the use of a device, such as a deluge valve, to admit water into the system piping upon activation of a remote control device located at a hose connection. A remote control activation device shall be provided at each hose connection. The water supply for a semiautomatic dry standpipe system shall be capable of supplying the system demand.

SUPERVISING  STATION.  A  facility  that  receives  signals  and  at  which personnel are in attendance at all times to respond to these signals.   SUPERVISORY SERVICE. The service required to monitor performance of guard tours and the operative condition of fixed suppression systems or other systems for the protection of life and property.

SUPERVISORY SIGNAL. A signal indicating the need of action in connection with the supervision of guard tours, the fire suppression systems or equipment or the maintenance features of related systems.

SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATING DEVICE. An initiation device, such as a valve supervisory switch, water-level indicator or low-air pressure switch on a dry-pipe sprinkler system, whose change of state signals an off-normal condition and its restoration to normal of a fire protection or life safety system, or a need for action in connection with guard tours, fire suppression systems or equipment or maintenance features of related systems.

TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF. Storage of tires where the a

TROUBLE SIGNAL. A signal initiated by the fire alarm system or device indicative of a fault in a monitored circuit or component.

VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of sight.

WET-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A solution of water and potassium-carbonate-based chemical, potassium-acetate-based chemical or a combination thereof, forming an extinguishing agent.

WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM. A system or a part of a system that can

transmit and receive signals without the aid of wire.

ZONE. A defined area within the protected premises. A zone can define an area from which a signal can be received, an area to which a signal can be sent or an area in which a form of control can be executed.

ZONE, NOTIFICATION. An area within a building or facility covered by notification appliances which are activated simultaneously.

SECTION 903 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

903.1General. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section.   903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing  systems complying with Section 904 shall be permitted in lieu of automatic  sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and  approved by the building official.

903.2Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings  and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1  through 903.2.12.

Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries and standby engines, provided those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

903.2.1Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section. For Group A-1, A-2, A-3 and A-4 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the floor area where the Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancy is located, and in all floors from the Group A occupancy to, and including, the nearest level of exit discharge serving the Group A occupancy. For Group A-5 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in the spaces indicated in Section 903.2.1.5.

903.2.1.1Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m );

2.      The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more;  

3.      The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies; or

4.      The fire area contains a multitheater complex.

903.2.1.2Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m );

2.      The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or

3.      The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

903.2.1.3Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-3 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m );

Exception:

1.1Fire areas used exclusively for religious worship services with fixed seating

2.      The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more;

Exceptions:

2.1Fire areas used primarily for worship with fixed seating.

2.2Fire areas without fixed seating not used for exhibition or display;

or

3.      The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.

903.2.1.4Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-4 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m );

2.      The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more; or

3.      The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.

903.2.1.5Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-5 occupancies in the following areas: concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet (93

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m ).

903.2.2Group B ambulatory health care facilities.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all fire areas containing a Group B ambulatory health care facility occupancy when either of the following conditions exists at any time:

1.      Four or more care recipients are incapable of self-preservation.

2.      One or more care recipients who are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such an occupancy.

903.2.3Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:

1.Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 square feet (1115

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m ) in area

2.Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that portion of the building.

Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that area where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level.

903.2.4Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m ).

2.A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.  3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any

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mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m ).

903.2.4.1Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided   throughout   all   Group   F-1   occupancy   fire   areas   that   contain

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woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232 m ) in area which

generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials.

903.2.5Group H. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in Sections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3.

903.2.5.1General. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H occupancies.

903.2.5.2Group H-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall  be  installed throughout buildings containing Group H-5 occupancies. The design of the sprinkler system shall not be less than that required by this code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.5.2. Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers,

the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.

TABLE 903.2.5.2

GROUP H-5 SPRINKLER DESIGN CRITERIA

LOCATION	OCCUPANCY  HAZARD CLASSIFICATION
Fabrication areas	Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Service corridors	Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Storage rooms without  dispensing	Ordinary Hazard  Group 2
Storage rooms with  dispensing	Extra Hazard Group  2
Corridors	Ordinary Hazard  Group 2

903.2.5.3Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).   903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings with a Group I fire area.

Exceptions:

1.An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3 shall be allowed in Group I-1 facilities.

2.An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed in Group I-4 facilities.

903.2.7Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m ).

2.      A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.

3.      The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including

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any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m ).

4.      A Group M occupancy greater than 8000 square feet is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture.

903.2.7.1 High-piled storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with the fire code in all buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.

903.2.8Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.

Exceptions:

1.An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed in buildings, or portions thereof, of Group R, up to and including four stories in height.

2.An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be allowed in buildings of Group R-3 and R-4.

3.An automatic sprinkler system is not required in buildings of Group R- 2 permitted to have a single exit per Section 1021.2 where:

a. The building is not used as an "SRO" occupancy as defined in section 310.2, and

b.The exit is constructed as an exterior stair per Section 1026, and c. The dwelling units egress directly into an exit, and

d.   Two hour fire barriers divide the building into fire areas with a maximum of two dwelling units per floor and not more than six dwelling units per fire area, and

e. All dwelling units in the fire area must have separations as required by Section 709.1 for dwelling units.

903.2.9Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

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1.      A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m ).

2.      A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.

3.      The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including

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any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m ).

4.      A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial trucks or

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buses where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m ).

903.2.9.1Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406, as shown:

1.      Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including

basements,  with  a  fire  area  containing  a  repair  garage  exceeding

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10,000 square feet (929 m ).

2.      Buildings no more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area

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containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115 m ).

3.      Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.

4.      A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial trucks or

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buses where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m ).

903.2.9.2Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures where the area for the

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storage  of  tires  exceeds  20,000  cubic  feet  (566  m )  shall  be  equipped

throughout  with  an  automatic  sprinkler  system  in  accordance  with Section 903.3.1.1.

903.2.10Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.4 as follows:

1.      Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds 12,000

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square feet (1115 m ); or

2.      Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.

Exception:  Enclosed  parking  garages  located  beneath  Group  R-3 occupancies.

903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks or buses

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where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m ).

903.2.11Specific building areas and hazards. In all occupancies an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.6.

Exception: Groups R-3 and U.

903.2.11.1Stories without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the

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floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m ) and where there is not provided

at least one of the following types of exterior wall openings:

1.      Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior stairway complying with Section 1009 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1010. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).

2.      Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling at least 20

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square feet (1.86 m )in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction

thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).

903.2.11.1.1Opening dimensions and access.

Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Such openings shall be accessible to the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner that fire fighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.

903.2.11.1.2Openings on one side only. Where openings in a story are provided on only one side and the opposite wall of such story is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from such openings, the story shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, or openings as specified above shall be provided on at least two sides of the story.

903.2.11.1.3Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

903.2.11.2Rubbish and linen chutes. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes extending through three or more floors shall have additional sprinkler heads installed within such chutes at alternate floors. Chute sprinklers shall be accessible for servicing.

903.2.11.3Buildings 55 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a floor level having an occupant load of 30 or more that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

Exceptions:

1.      Airport control towers.

2.      Open parking structures.

3.      Occupancies in Group F-2.

903.2.11.4Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts. Where required by the  mechanical code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts conveying hazardous exhaust, or flammable or combustible materials.

Exception: Ducts in which the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).

903.2.11.5Commercial cooking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system where an automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.

903.2.11.6Other   required   suppression   systems.   In   addition   to   the

requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.6 also require the installation of a fire suppression system for certain buildings and areas.

903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3312.

903.3Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.6.

TABLE 903.2.11.6

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

SECTION	SUBJECT
402.9	Covered malls
403.2, 403.3	High-rise buildings
404.3	Atriums
405.3	Underground structures
407.5	Group I-2
410.6	Stages
411.4	Special amusement buildings
412.4.6,  412.4.6.1, 412.6.5	Aircraft hangars
415.6.2.4	Group H-2
416.4	Flammable finishes
417.4	Drying rooms
507	Unlimited area buildings
508.2.5	Incidental accessory occupancies
1028.6.2.3	Smoke-protected assembly seating
OFC	Sprinkler system requirements as set forth in Section 903.2.11.6 of the fire code

903.3.1Standards. Sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, unless otherwise permitted by Sections 903.3.1.2 and 903.3.1.3.

903.3.1.1NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in

Section 903.3.1.1.1.

903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.

1.      Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard.

2.      Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents, when approved by the building official.

3.      Generator and transformer rooms separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

4.      Rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly noncombustible contents.

5.      Fire service access elevator machine rooms and machinery spaces.

903.3.1.2NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Groups I-1, I-4 and R occupancies, up to and including four stories in height, shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R.  

903.3.1.2.1 Balconies and decks. Sprinkler protection shall be provided for exterior balconies, decks and ground floor patios of dwelling units where the building is of Type V construction, provided there is a roof or deck above. Sidewall sprinklers that are used to protect such areas shall be permitted to be located such that their deflectors are within 1 inch (25 mm) to 6 inches (152 mm) below the structural members and a maximum distance of 14 inches (356 mm) below the deck of the exterior balconies and decks that are constructed of open wood joist construction.

903.3.1.3NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in buildings of Groups I-1, R-3, and R-4 shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D.

903.3.2Quick-response and residential sprinklers. Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code, quick-response or residential automatic sprinklers shall be installed in the following areas in accordance

with Section 903.3.1 and their listings:

1.      Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing patient sleeping units in Group I-2 in accordance with this code.

2.      Dwelling units, and sleeping units in Group R and I-1 occupancies.

3.      Light-hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA 13.

903.3.3Obstructed locations. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed with due regard to obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands, or equipment that exceeds 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Not less than a 3-foot (914 mm) clearance shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible fibers.

Exception: Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods protected with a fire- extinguishing system in accordance with Section 904.

903.3.4Actuation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be automatically actuated unless specifically provided for in this code.

903.3.5Water supplies. Water supplies for automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section and the standards referenced in Section 903.3.1. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the requirements of this section and the plumbing code.

903.3.5.1Domestic services. Where the domestic service provides the water supply for the automatic sprinkler system, the supply shall be in accordance with this section.

903.3.5.1.1Limited area sprinkler systems. Limited area sprinkler systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers on any single connection are permitted to be connected to the domestic service where a wet automatic standpipe is not available. Limited area sprinkler systems connected to domestic water supplies shall comply with each of the following requirements:

1.      Valves  shall  not  be  installed  between  the  domestic  water  riser control valve and the sprinklers.

Exception: An approved indicating control valve supervised in the open position in accordance with Section 903.4.

2.      The domestic service shall be capable of supplying the  simultaneous domestic demand and the sprinkler demand required  to be hydraulically calculated by NFPA 13, NFPA 13R or NFPA  13D.

903.3.5.1.2Residential combination services. A single combination water supply shall be allowed provided that the domestic demand is

added to the sprinkler demand as required by NFPA 13R.

903.3.5.2Secondary water supply. A secondary on-site water supply equal to the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand, including the hose stream requirement, shall be provided for high-rise buildings assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F as determined by this code. The secondary water supply shall have a duration of not less than 30 minutes as determined by the occupancy hazard classification in accordance with NFPA 13.

Exception: Existing buildings.

903.3.6Hose threads. Fire hose threads and fittings used in connection with automatic sprinkler systems shall be approved and compatible with the responding fire department hose threads.

903.4Sprinkler system supervision and alarms. All valves  controlling  the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and waterflow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit.

Exceptions:

1.   Deleted.

2.      Limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers.

3.      Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.

4.      Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.

5.      Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.

6.      Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.

7.      Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.

903.4.1Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, when approved by the building official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.

Exceptions:

1.      Underground  key  or  hub  valves  in  roadway  boxes  provided  by  the municipality or public utility are not required to be monitored.

2.      Backflow prevention device test valves located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall be locked in the open position. In occupancies

required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.

903.4.2Alarms. Approved audible devices shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by waterflow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.

            Exception: Water-flow alarms are not required for limited area sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.5.1.1.

903.4.3Floor control valves. Approved supervised indicating  control  valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings.

903.5 Testing and maintenance. Sprinkler systems shall be tested  and maintained in accordance with the "International Fire Code".

SECTION 904 ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC

FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

904.1General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.

904.2Where required. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the building official. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed by other requirements of this code.

904.2.1 Commercial hood and duct systems. Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by Chapter 5 of the mechanical code to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire- extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code.

904.3Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.

904.3.1Electrical  wiring.  Electrical  wiring  shall  be  in  accordance  with NFPA 70.

904.3.2Actuation.         Automatic    fire-extinguishing     systems      shall     be

automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.11.1.

904.3.3System interlocking. Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents and other features necessary for proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.

904.3.4Alarms and warning signs. Where alarms are required to indicate the operation of automatic fire-extinguishing systems, distinctive audible and visible alarms and warning signs shall be provided to warn of pending agent discharge. Where exposure to automatic-extinguishing agents poses a hazard to persons and a delay is required to ensure the evacuation of occupants before agent discharge, a separate warning signal shall be provided to alert occupants once agent discharge has begun. Audible signals shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.2.

904.3.5Monitoring. Where a building fire alarm system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72.

904.4Inspection and testing. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the provisions of this section prior to acceptance.

904.4.1Inspection. Prior to conducting final acceptance tests, the following items shall be inspected:

1.      Hazard specification for consistency with design hazard.

2.      Type, location and spacing of automatic-and manual-initiating devices.

3.      Size, placement and position of nozzles or discharge orifices.

4.      Location and identification of audible and visible alarm devices.

5.       Identification of devices with proper designations.  6.   Operating instructions.

904.4.2Alarm testing. Notification appliances, connections to fire alarm systems and connections to approved supervising stations shall be tested in accordance with this section and Section 907 to verify proper operation.

904.4.2.1 Audible and visible signals. The audibility and visibility of notification appliances signaling agent discharge or system operation, where required, shall be verified.

904.4.3Monitor testing. Connections to protected premises and supervising station fire alarm systems shall be tested to verify proper identification and retransmission of alarms from automatic fire-extinguishing systems.

904.5Wet-chemical systems. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA

17A and their listing.

904.6Dry-chemical systems. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 17 and their listing.

904.7Foam systems. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 11 and NFPA 16 and their listing.

904.8Carbon dioxide systems. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 12 and their listing.

904.9Halon systems. Halogenated extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 12A and their listing.

904.10Clean-agent systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 2001 and their listing.

904.11Commercial cooking systems. The automatic fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust systems of the type and arrangement protected. Preengineered automatic dry-and wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in accordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled for the intended application. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, its listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the referenced standard indicated, as follows:

1.      Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12.

2.      Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.

3.      Foam-water sprinkler system or foam-water spray systems, NFPA 16.

4.      Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17.

5.      Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17A.

Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested in accordance with UL 710B and listed, labeled and installed in accordance with Section 304.1 of the mechanical code.

904.11.1Manual system operation. A manual actuation device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the cooking area a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) and a maximum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaust system. The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than 48 inches (1200 mm) or less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the floor and shall clearly identify the hazard protected. The manual actuation shall require

a maximum force of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximum movement of 14 inches (356 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.

Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be required to be equipped with manual actuation means.

904.11.2System  interconnection.  The  actuation  of  the  fire  suppression system shall automatically shut down the fuel or electrical power supply to the cooking equipment. The fuel and electrical supply reset shall be manual.   904.11.3 Carbon dioxide systems. When carbon dioxide systems are used, there shall be a nozzle at the top of the ventilating duct. Additional nozzles that are symmetrically arranged to give uniform distribution shall be installed within  vertical  ducts  exceeding  20  feet  (6096  mm)  and  horizontal  ducts exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Dampers shall be installed at either the top or the bottom of the duct and shall be arranged to operate automatically upon activation of the fire-extinguishing system. Where the damper is installed at the top of the duct, the top nozzle shall be immediately below the damper. Automatic  carbon  dioxide  fire-extinguishing  systems  shall  be  sufficiently sized  to  protect  against  all  hazards  venting  through  a  common  duct simultaneously.

904.11.3.1 Ventilation system. Commercial-type cooking equipment  protected by an automatic carbon dioxide-extinguishing system shall be  arranged to shut off the ventilation system upon activation.

904.11.4 Special provisions for automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic  sprinkler systems protecting commercial-type cooking equipment shall be  supplied from a separate, readily accessible, indicating-type control valve that is identified.

904.11.4.1 Listed sprinklers. Sprinklers used for the protection of fryers shall be tested in accordance with UL 199E, listed for that application and installed in  accordance with their listing.

SECTION 905 STANDPIPE SYSTEMS

905.1General. Standpipe systems shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with this section. Fire hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall be approved and shall be compatible with fire department hose threads. The location of fire department hose connections shall be approved by the building official. In buildings used for high-piled combustible storage, fire protection shall be in accordance with the fire code.

905.2Installation standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14.

905.3Required installations. Standpipe systems shall be installed when required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.7 in the locations indicated in Sections 905.4, 905.5 and 905.6. Standpipe systems are allowed to be combined with automatic sprinkler systems.

Exception: Standpipe systems are not required in Group R-3 occupancies.

905.3.1Height. Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, or where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

Exceptions:

1.      Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

2.      Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking garages where the highest floor is located not more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

3.      Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open parking garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose connections are located as required for Class II standpipes in accordance with Section 905.5.

4.      Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

5.      In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider:

5.1.Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less; and

5.2.Conditions  where  topography  makes  access  from  the  fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.

905.3.2Group A. Class I automatic wet standpipes shall be provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons.

Exceptions:

1.   Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces.

2.   Class I automatic dry and semiautomatic dry standpipes or manual wet standpipes are allowed in buildings where the highest floor surface used for human occupancy is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

905.3.3Covered mall buildings. A covered mall building shall be equipped throughout  with  a  standpipe  system  where  required  by  Section  905.3.1.

Covered mall buildings not required to be equipped with a standpipe system by Section 905.3.1 shall be equipped with Class I hose connections connected to the automatic sprinkler system sized to deliver water at 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/min) at the most hydraulically remote hose connection while concurrently supplying the automatic sprinkler system demand. The standpipe system shall be designed not to exceed a 50 pounds per square inch (psi) (345 kPa) residual pressure loss with a flow of 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/min) from the fire department connection to the hydraulically most remote hose connection. Hose connections shall be provided at each of the following locations:

1.      Within the mall at the entrance to each exit passageway or corridor.

2.      At each floor-level landing within enclosed stairways opening directly on the mall.

3.      At exterior public entrances to the mall.

4.      At other locations as necessary so that the distance to reach all portions of a tenant space does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a hose connection.

2

905.3.4Stages. Stages greater than 1,000 square feet in area (93 m ) shall be

equipped with a Class III wet standpipe system with 1½ -inch and 2½ -inch (38 mm and 64 mm) hose connections on each side of the stage.

Exception: Where the building or area is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, a 1½ -inch (38 mm) hose connection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13 or in accordance with NFPA 14 for Class II or III standpipes.

905.3.4.1 Hose and cabinet. The 1½ -inch (38 mm) hose connections shall be equipped with sufficient lengths of 1½ -inch (38 mm) hose to provide fire protection for the stage area. Hose connections shall be equipped with an approved adjustable fog nozzle and be mounted in a cabinet or on a rack.

905.3.5Underground buildings. Underground buildings shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipe system.   905.3.6 Helistops and heliports. Buildings with a helistop or heliport that are equipped with a standpipe shall extend the standpipe to the roof level on which the helistop or heliport is located in accordance with Section 1107.5 of the fire code.

905.3.7 Marinas and boatyards. Standpipes in marinas and boatyards shall comply with Chapter 45 of the fire code.

905.4Location of Class I standpipe hose connections.

Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:

1.      In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate floor level landing between floors, unless otherwise approved by the building official.

2.      On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a horizontal exit.

Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal exit are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit.

3.      In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.

Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of the building.

4.      In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior public entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall.

5.      Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), each standpipe shall be provided with a hose connection located either on the roof or at the highest landing of a stairway with stair access to the roof. An additional hose connection shall be provided at the top of the most hydraulically remote standpipe for testing purposes.

6.      Where the most remote portion of a nonsprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered floor or story is more than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a hose connection, the building official is authorized to require that additional hose connections be provided in approved locations.

905.4.1Protection. Risers and laterals of Class I standpipe systems  not located within an enclosed stairway or pressurized enclosure shall be protected by a degree of fire resistance equal to that required for vertical enclosures in the building in which they are located.

Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, laterals that are not located within an enclosed stairway or pressurized enclosure are not required to be enclosed within fire-resistance- rated construction.

905.4.2Interconnection. In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.

905.5Location of Class II standpipe hose connections.

Class II standpipe hose connections shall be accessible and located so that all portions of the building are within 30 feet (9144 mm) of a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose.

905.5.1Groups  A-1  and  A-2.  In  Group  A-1  and  A-2  occupancies  with occupant loads of more than 1,000, hose

905.5.2Protection. Fire-resistance-rated protection of risers and laterals of  Class II standpipe systems is not required.

905.5.3Class II system 1-inch hose. A minimum 1-inch (25 mm) hose shall  be permitted to be used for hose stations in light-hazard occupancies where investigated and listed for this service and where approved by the building   official.

905.6Location of Class III standpipe hose connections.

Class III standpipe systems shall have hose connections located as required for Class I standpipes in Section 905.4 and shall have Class II hose connections as required in Section

905.5.

905.6.1Protection. Risers and laterals of Class III standpipe systems shall be protected as required for Class I systems in accordance with Section 905.4.1.   905.6.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one Class III  standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance  with NFPA 14.

905.7Cabinets. Cabinets containing fire-fighting equipment such as standpipes, fire hoses, fire extinguishers or fire department valves shall not be blocked from use or obscured from view.

905.7.1Cabinet equipment identification. Cabinets shall be identified in an  approved manner by a permanently attached sign with letters not less than 2  inches (51 mm) high in a color that contrasts with the background color, indicating the equipment contained therein.

Exceptions:

1.      Doors not large enough to accommodate a written sign shall be marked with a permanently attached pictogram of the equipment contained therein.

2.      Doors that have either an approved visual identification clear glass panel or a complete glass door panel are not required to be marked.

905.7.2Locking cabinet doors. Cabinets shall be unlocked.

Exceptions:

1.      Visual identification panels of glass or other approved transparent frangible material that is easily broken and allows access.

2.      Approved locking arrangements.

3.      Group I-3.

905.8Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.

Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14.

905.9Valve supervision. Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve  will generate a supervisory signal at the supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the control unit.

Exceptions:

1.      Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility do not require supervision.

2.      Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system.

905.10During construction. Standpipe systems required during construction and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3311.

SECTION 906 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

906.1Where  required.  Portable  fire  extinguishers  shall  be  installed  in  the following locations.

1.      In Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-2, R-4 and S occupancies.   Exception: In Group A, B and E occupancies equipped throughout with quick response sprinklers, portable fire extinguishers shall be required only in locations specified in Items 2 through 6.

2.      Within 30 feet (9144 mm) of commercial cooking equipment.

3.      In  areas  where  flammable  or  combustible  liquids  are  stored,  used  or dispensed.

4.      On  each  floor  of  structures  under  construction,  except  Group  R-3 occupancies, in accordance with Section 1415.1 of the fire code .

5.      Where required by the fire code sections indicated in Table 906.1.

6.      Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to laboratories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where required by the building official.

906.2General  requirements.  Portable  fire  extinguishers  shall  be  selected, installed and maintained in accordance with this section and NFPA 10.

Exceptions:

1.The travel distance to reach an extinguisher shall not apply to the spectator seating portions of Group A-5 occupancies.

2.Thirty-day inspections shall not be required and maintenance shall be allowed to be once every three years for dry-chemical or halogenated agent portable fire extinguishers that are supervised by a listed and

TABLE 906.1

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN THE FIRE CODE

OFC SECTION	SUBJECT
303.5	Asphalt kettles
307.5	Open burning
308.1.3	Open flames-torches
309.4	Powered industrial trucks
1105.2	Aircraft towing vehicles
1105.3	Aircraft welding apparatus
1105.4	Aircraft fuel-servicing tank vehicles
1105.5	Aircraft hydrant fuel-servicing vehicles
1105.6	Aircraft fuel-dispensing stations
1107.7	Heliports and helistops
1208.4	Dry cleaning plants
1415.1	Buildings under construction or demolition
1417.3	Roofing operations
1504.4.1	Spray-finishing operations
1505.4.2	Dip-tank operations
1506.4.2	Powder-coating areas
1904.2	Lumberyards/woodworking facilities
1908.8	Recycling facilities
1909.5	Exterior lumber storage
2003.5	Organic-coating areas
2106.3	Industrial ovens
2205.5	Motor fuel-dispensing facilities
2210.6.4	Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities
2211.6	Repair garages
2306.1	Rack storage

2404.12	Tents and membrane structures
2508.2	Tire rebuilding/storage
2604.2.6	Welding and other hot work
2903.6	Combustible fibers
3403.2.1	Flammable and combustible liquids, general
3404.3.3.1	Indoor storage of flammable and combustible liquids
3404.3.7.5.2	Liquid storage rooms for flammable and combustible liquids
3405.4.9	Solvent distillation units
3406.2.7	Farms and construction sites-flammable and  combustible liquids storage
3406.4.10.1	Bulk plants and terminals for flammable and  combustible liquids
3406.5.4.5	Commercial, industrial, governmental or  manufacturing establishments-fuel dispensing
3406.6.4	Tank vehicles for flammable and combustible liquids
3606.5.7	Flammable solids
3808.2	LP-gas
4504.4	Marinas

approved electronic monitoring device, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

2.1.Electronic monitoring shall confirm that extinguishers are properly positioned, properly charged and unobstructed.

2.2.Loss of power or circuit continuity to the electronic monitoring device shall initiate a trouble signal.

2.3.The extinguishers shall be installed inside of a building or cabinet in a noncorrosive environment.

2.4.Electronic monitoring devices and supervisory circuits shall  be tested every three years when extinguisher maintenance is performed.

2.5.A written log of required hydrostatic test dates for extinguishers shall be maintained by the owner to verify that hydrostatic tests are conducted at the frequency required by NFPA 10.

3.   In Group I-3, portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be located at staff locations.

906.3Size   and  distribution.  The  size  and  distribution  of  portable  fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.3.1 through 906.3.4.

906.3.1Class A fire hazards. The minimum sizes and distribution of portable fire extinguishers for occupancies that involve primarily Class A fire hazards shall comply with Table 906.3(1).

TABLE 906.3(1)

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS A FIRE HAZARDS

	LIGHT (Low) HAZARD  OCCUPANCY	ORDINARY (Moderate)  HAZARD  OCCUPANCY	EXTRA (High)  HAZARD  OCCUPANCY
Minimum  Rated Single  Extinguisher	2-Ac	2-A	4-Aa
Maximum  Floor Area  Per Unit of A	3,000 square  feet	1,500 square  feet	1,000 square  feet
Maximum  Floor Area  for  Extinguisherb	11,250 square  feet	11,250 square  feet	11,250 square  feet
Maximum Travel Distance to Extinguisher	75 feet	75 feet	75 feet

2

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929m , 1 gallon = 3.785 L.

1

a.Two 2 /2-gallon water-type extinguishers shall be deemed the equivalent of one

4-A rated extinguisher.

b.Annex E.3.3 of NFPA 10 provides more details concerning application of the maximum floor area criteria.

c. Two water-type extinguishers each with a 1-A rating shall be deemed the equivalent of one 2-A rated extinguisher for Light (Low) Hazard Occupancies.

906.3.2Class B fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with depths less than or equal to 0.25-inch (6.35 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with Table 906.3(2).

Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with a depth of greater than 0.25-inch (6.35 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with NFPA 10.

TABLE 906.3(2) FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

WITH DEPTHS LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 0.25 INCH

TYPE OF HAZARD	BASIC MINIMUM  EXTINGUISHER  RATING	MAXIMUM TRAVEL  DISTANCE TO  EXTINGUISHERS (feet)
Light (Low)	5-B 10-B	30 50
Ordinary  (Moderate)	10-B 20-B	30 50
Extra (High)	40-B 80-B	30 50

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

Note: For requirements on water-soluble flammable liquids and  alternative sizing criteria, see Section 5.5 of NFPA 10.

906.3.3Class C fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for Class C fire hazards shall be selected and placed on the basis of the anticipated Class A or B hazard.

906.3.4Class D fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving combustible metals shall be selected and placed in accordance with NFPA 10.

906.4Cooking grease fires. Fire extinguishers provided for the protection of cooking grease fires shall be of an approved type compatible with the automatic fire-extinguishing system agent and in accordance with Section 904.11.5 of the  fire code.

906.5Conspicuous location. Portable fire extinguishers shall be located in conspicuous locations where they will be readily accessible and immediately available for use. These locations shall be along normal paths of travel, unless the  building official determines that the hazard posed indicates the need for placement away from normal paths of travel.

906.6Unobstructed and unobscured. Portable fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view. In rooms or areas in which visual obstruction cannot be completely avoided, means shall be provided to indicate the locations of extinguishers.

906.7Hangers and brackets. Hand-held portable fire extinguishers, not housed in cabinets, shall be installed on the hangers or brackets supplied. Hangers or brackets shall be securely anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

906.8Cabinets. Cabinets used to house portable fire extinguishers shall not be locked.

Exceptions:

1.Where portable fire extinguishers subject to malicious use or damage are provided with a means of ready access.

2.In  Group  I-3  occupancies  and  in  mental  health  areas  in  Group  I-2

occupancies, access to portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be locked or to be located in staff locations provided the staff has keys.

906.9Extinguisher installation. The installation of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.9.1 through 906.9.3.

  906.9.1 Extinguishers weighing 40 pounds or less. Portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor.

 906.9.2 Extinguishers weighing more than 40 pounds. Hand-held portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 3.5 feet (1067 mm) above the floor.

906.9.3 Floor clearance. The clearance between the floor and the bottom of installed hand-held portable fire extinguishers shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm).

906.10Wheeled units. Wheeled fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located in a designated location.

SECTION 907

FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

907.1General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.

907.1.1Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm  systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent  of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions  of this code, and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as  determined by the building official.

907.1.2Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings for fire alarm systems  shall be submitted for review and approval prior to system installation, and  shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

1.      A floor plan that indicates the use of all rooms.

2.      Locations of alarm-initiating devices.

3.      Locations of alarm notification appliances, including candela ratings  for visible alarm notification appliances.

4.      Location of fire alarm control unit, transponders and notification  power supplies.

5.      Annunciators.

6.      Power connection.

7.      Battery calculations.

8.      Conductor type and sizes.

9.      Voltage drop calculations.

10.  Manufacturers' data sheets indicating model numbers and listing  information for equipment, devices and materials.

11.  Details of ceiling height and construction.

12.  The interface of fire safety control functions.

13.  Classification of the supervising station.

907.1.3Equipment. Systems and components shall be listed and approved for the purpose for which they are installed.

907.2Where required-new buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.

A minimum of one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, a single fire alarm box shall be installed.

Exceptions:

1.      The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated  to elevator recall control and supervisory service.

2.      The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the building official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where  provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is  accessible to the public.

907.2.1Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an occupant load of 300 or more. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.

907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section

907.5.2.2.

Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an approved, constantly attended location.

907.2.2Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1.      The combined Group B occupant load of all floors is 500 or more.

2.      The Group B occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

3.      The  Group  B  fire  area  contains  a  Group  B  ambulatory  health  care facility.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.

907.2.2.1 Group B ambulatory health care facilities. Fire areas containing Group B ambulatory health care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory health care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces, including public corridors and elevator lobbies.

Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, provided the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.

907.2.3Group E. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group E occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.

Exceptions:

1.      A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50.

2.      Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all of the following apply:

2.1Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors.

2.2Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and similar areas are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.

2.3Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.

2.4The capability to activate the evacuation signal from a central point is provided.

2.5In buildings where normally occupied spaces are provided with a two-way communication system between such spaces and a constantly attended receiving station from where a general evacuation alarm can be sounded, except in locations specifically designated by the building official.

3.      Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the notification appliances will activate on sprinkler waterflow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.

907.2.4Group F. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group F occupancies where both of the following conditions exist:

1.      The Group F occupancy is two or more stories in height; and

2.      The Group F occupancy has a combined occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.

907.2.5Group H. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification  system  shall  be  installed  in  Group  H-5  occupancies  and  in occupancies  used  for  the  manufacture  of  organic  coatings.  An  automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system shall be  installed  for  highly  toxic  gases,  organic  peroxides  and  oxidizers  in accordance with Chapters 37, 39 and 40, respectively, of the fire code .   907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.

Exceptions:

1.      Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas of Group I- 1 and I-2 occupancies shall not be required at exits if located at all nurses'  control  stations  or  other  constantly  attended  staff  locations,

provided such stations are visible and continuously accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.4.2 are not exceeded.

2.      Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by the building official.

907.2.6.1 Group I-1. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5.

Exceptions:

1.      Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

2.      Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.

907.2.6.1.1 Smoke alarms. Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.6.2Group I-2. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors in nursing homes (both intermediate care and skilled nursing facilities), detoxification facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the corridors by Section 407.2. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Hospitals shall be equipped with smoke detection as required in Section 407.

Exceptions:

1.      Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where such units are provided with smoke detectors that comply with UL 268. Such detectors shall provide a visual display on the corridor side of each patient sleeping unit and shall provide an audible and visual alarm at the nursing station attending each unit.

2.      Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where patient sleeping unit doors are equipped with automatic door-closing devices with integral smoke detectors on the unit sides installed in accordance with their listing, provided that the integral detectors perform the required alerting function.

907.2.6.3Group I-3 occupancies. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.

907.2.6.3.1System   initiation.   Actuation   of   an   automatic   fire- extinguishing system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall

initiate an approved fire alarm signal which automatically  notifies staff.

907.2.6.3.2Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.

907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarm boxes in detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.

907.2.6.3.3Automatic smoke detection system.

An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally accessible to residents.

Exceptions:

1.      Other approved smoke detection arrangements providing equivalent protection, including, but not limited to, placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind protective guards listed for the purpose, are allowed when necessary to prevent damage or tampering.

2.      Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3 as described in Section 308.

3.      Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping units with four or fewer occupants in smoke compartments that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

907.2.7Group M. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1.      The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.

2.      The Group M occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

Exceptions:

1.      A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered mall buildings complying with Section 402.

2.      Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones

upon sprinkler waterflow.

907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a waterflow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.8Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.

907.2.8.1Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.

Exceptions:

1.      A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.

2.      Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when all of the following conditions are met:

2.1.The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;

2.2.The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler waterflow; and

2.3.At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.

907.2.8.2Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.

Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.

907.2.8.3Smoke alarms. Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms shall

be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.9Group R-2. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 and 907.2.9.2.

Exception: Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms installed within an "SRO" occupancy, as defined in Section 310.2, shall be installed as required in Section 907.2.8 for Group R-1 occupancies. 

907.2.9.1Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where:

1.      Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge;

2.      Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit; or

3.      The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units.

Exceptions:

1.      A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.

2.      Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler waterflow.

3.      A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1026.6, Exception 4.

907.2.9.2Smoke alarms. Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.10Group R-4. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-4 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.10.1 through 907.2.10.3.

907.2.10.1Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that

activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-4 occupancies.

Exceptions:

1.      A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than  two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each  individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court  or yard.

2.      Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:

2.1.The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section

903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;

2.2.The   notification   appliances   will   activate   upon   sprinkler waterflow; and

2.3.At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.

3.Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas shall not be required at exits where located at all nurses' control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continuously accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.4.2.1 are not exceeded.

907.2.10.2Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens.

 Exceptions:

1.      Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

2.      An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.

907.2.10.3Smoke alarms. Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.11Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single-and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.4 and NFPA 72.

907.2.11.1Group R-1 and "SRO"occupancies (as defined in section 310.2). Single-or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1 and "SRO" occupancies:

1.      In sleeping areas.

2.      In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.

3.      In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.

  907.2.11.2 Groups R-2 (except "SRO"occupancies as defined in section 310.2), R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single-or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2 (except "SRO" occupancies as defined in section 310.2), R-3, R-4 and I-1 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:

1.      On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.

2.      In each room used for sleeping purposes.

Exception: Single-or multiple-station smoke alarms in Group I-1 shall not be required where smoke detectors are provided in the sleeping rooms as part of an automatic smoke detection system.

3.      In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.

907.2.11.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, R-2, R-3 or R-4, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.   907.2.11.4 Power source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a

battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery backup shall be connected to an emergency electrical system. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.

Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.

907.2.12Special amusement buildings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in special amusement buildings in accordance with Sections 907.2.12.1 through 907.2.12.3.

907.2.12.1Alarm. Activation of any single smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler  system  or  any  other  automatic  fire  detection  device  shall immediately  sound  an  alarm  at  the  building  at  a  constantly  attended location  from  which  emergency  action  can  be  initiated,  including  the capability of manual initiation of requirements in Section 907.2.12.2.   907.2.12.2  System  response.  The  activation  of  two  or  more  smoke detectors, a single smoke detector equipped with an alarm verification feature, the automatic sprinkler system or other approved fire detection device shall automatically:

1.      Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level;

2.      Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions;

3.      Activate an approved directional exit marking that will become apparent in an emergency; and

4.      Activate a prerecorded message, audible throughout the special amusement building, instructing patrons to proceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signals used in conjunction with the prerecorded message shall produce a sound which is distinctive from other sounds used during normal operation.

907.2.12.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system, which is also allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 and be audible throughout the entire special amusement building.

907.2.13High-rise buildings. Buildings with a floor used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section

907.5.2.2.

 Exceptions:

1.   Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 907.2.22 and 412.

2.   Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3.

3.   Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1.

4.   Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.

5.   Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.

6.   In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound at a constantly attended location and general occupant notification shall be broadcast by the emergency voice/alarm communication system.

  907.2.13.1 Automatic smoke detection. Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1 and 907.2.13.1.2.

907.2.13.1.1 Area smoke detection. Area smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall operate the emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:

1.   In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room which is not provided with sprinkler  protection.

2.   In each elevator machine room and in elevator lobbies.   907.2.13.1.2 Duct smoke detection. Duct smoke detectors complying with Section 907.3.1 shall be located as follows:

1.In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air- conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet

3

per minute (cfm) (0.94 m /s). Such detectors shall be located in a

serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.

2.At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than

3

5,000  cfm  (2.4  m /s)  and  serving  not  more  than  10  air-inlet

openings.

907.2.13.2 Fire department communication system. Where a wired communication system is approved in lieu of a radio coverage system in accordance with Section 510 of the fire code , the wired fire department communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall operate between a fire command center complying with Section 911, elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the enclosed exit stairway.

907.2.14Atriums connecting more than two stories. A fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories, with smoke detection installed throughout the atrium. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Such occupancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying with the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2.

 907.2.15 High-piled combustible storage areas. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by Section 2306.5 of the fire code .

907.2.16Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by the fire code.

907.2.17Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system.

907.2.18Underground buildings with smoke control systems. Where a smoke control system is installed in an underground building in accordance with this code, automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.18.1.

907.2.18.1Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in the following areas:

1.      Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.

2.      Elevator lobbies.

3.      The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.

4.      Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air- conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying

3

not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m /s) and serving not more than 10 air-

inlet openings.

907.2.18.2Alarm required. Activation of the smoke control system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.

907.2.19Deep underground buildings. Where the lowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.20Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000

2

square feet (4645 m ) in total floor area shall be provided with an emergency

voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.21Residential aircraft hangars. A minimum of one single-station smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential aircraft hangar as defined in Section 412.3.1 and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or other sounding device to provide an alarm which will be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.

907.2.22Airport traffic control towers. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in airport control towers in all occupiable and equipment spaces.

Exception: Audible appliances shall not be installed within the control tower cab.

907.2.23Battery rooms. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing stationary storage battery systems with a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189 L).

907.3Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.3.1Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct

smoke detectors shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the mechanical code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.

Exceptions:

1.      The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required  where duct smoke detectors activate the building's alarm notification appliances.

2.      In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system,  actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as  air duct detector trouble.

907.3.2Delayed egress locks. Where delayed egress locks are installed on  means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.9.6, an automatic  smoke or heat detection system shall be installed as required by that section.   907.3.3 Elevator emergency operation. Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator emergency operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of ASME A17.1 and NFPA 72.

907.3.4 Wiring. The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to  accomplish the above fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in  accordance with NFPA 72.

907.4Initiating devices. Where manual or automatic alarm initiation is required as part of a fire alarm system, the initiating devices shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1 through 907.4.3.

907.4.1Protection of fire alarm control unit. In areas that are not continuously occupied, a single smoke detector shall be provided at the location of each fire alarm control unit, notification appliance circuit power extenders, and supervising station transmitting equipment.

Exceptions:

1        Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of a smoke detector, a heat  detector shall be permitted.

2        The smoke detector shall not be required where the building is equipped  throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section  903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

907.4.2Manual fire alarm boxes. Where a manual fire alarm system is  required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by fire alarm  boxes installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.2.1 through 907.4.2.5.

907.4.2.1Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more  than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. Additional manual  fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel distance to the nearest box  does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).

907.4.2.2Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1372  mm) measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or  lever of the box.

907.4.2.3Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.  907.4.2.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by a

supervising station, an approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS  CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.

Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.

907.4.2.5 Protective covers. The building official is authorized to require  the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the manual fire alarm box with  protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved. Protective covers shall not project more than that permitted by  Section 1003.3.3.

907.4.3Automatic smoke detection. Where an automatic smoke detection  system is required it shall utilize smoke detectors unless ambient conditions  prohibit such an installation. In spaces where smoke detectors cannot be  utilized due to ambient conditions, approved automatic heat detectors shall be  permitted.

907.4.3.1Automatic sprinkler system. For conditions other than specific fire safety functions noted in Section 907.3, in areas where ambient conditions prohibit the installation of smoke detectors, an automatic sprinkler system installed in such areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and that is connected to the fire alarm system shall be approved as automatic heat detection.

907.5Occupant notification systems. A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the panel and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Sections 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.4. Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:

1.      Automatic fire detectors.

2.      Sprinkler waterflow devices.

3.      Manual fire alarm boxes.

4.      Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.

Exception: Where notification systems are allowed elsewhere in Section 907 to annunciate at a constantly attended location.

907.5.1Presignal feature. A presignal feature shall not be installed unless  approved by the building official and the fire department. Where a presignal  feature is provided, a signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended  location approved by the fire department, in order that occupant notification  can be activated in the event of fire or other emergency.

907.5.2Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification appliances shall  be provided and shall be listed for their purpose. Audible and visual alarm  notification appliancess shall be located and installed in accordance with this section, the "ADAAG", and NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 35.

907.5.2.1Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and emit a distinctive sound that is not to be used for  any purpose other than that of a fire alarm.

Exception: Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in critical care areas of Group I-2 occupancies.

907.5.2.1.1Average sound pressure. The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 75 dBA in occupancies in Groups R and I-1; 90 dBA in mechanical equipment rooms and 60 dBA in other occupancies.

907.5.2.1.2Maximum sound pressure. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.

907.5.2.2Emergency voice/alarm communication systems. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems required by this code shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions

giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation in accordance with the building's fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404. In high-rise buildings, the system shall operate on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:

1.      Elevator groups.

2.      Exit stairways.

3.      Each floor.

4.      Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1.

Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page.

907.5.2.2.1Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.

907.5.2.2.2Live   voice   messages.   The   emergency   voice/alarm communication system shall also have the capability to broadcast live voice messages by paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.   907.5.2.2.3 Alternate        uses.    The       emergency                  voice/alarm communication  system  shall  be  allowed  to  be  used  for  other announcements, provided the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.

907.5.2.2.4 Emergency power. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with an approved emergency power source.

907.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.4.

 Exceptions:

1.   Deleted.

2.      Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Section 1002.1.

3.      Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.

907.5.2.3.1Public and common areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use  areas.

907.5.2.3.2Employee work areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with a minimum of

20-percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employee(s).

907.5.2.3.3Deleted.  907.5.2.3.4 Deleted.

907.6Installation. A fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 72.

907.6.1Wiring. Wiring shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 70 and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low- power wireless systems in NFPA 72.

907.6.2Power supply. The primary and secondary power supply for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.

Exception:  Back-up  power  for  single-station  and  multiple-station  smoke alarms as required in Section 907.2.11.4.

907.6.3Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not

2

exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m ). The length of any zone shall not exceed

300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direction.

Exception:  Automatic  sprinkler  system  zones  shall  not  exceed  the  area permitted by NFPA 13.

907.6.3.1Zoning indicator panel. A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved location. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible-alarm silencing switch.

907.6.3.2High-rise buildings. In high-rise buildings, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for each of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:

1)      Smoke detectors.

2)      Sprinkler waterflow devices.

3)      Manual fire alarm boxes.

4)      Other   approved   types   of   automatic   fire   detection   devices   or suppression systems.

907.6.4Access.  Access  shall  be  provided  to  each  fire  alarm  device  and notification appliance for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.   907.6.5 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.   Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:

1.      Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.

2.      Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.

3.   Deleted.

907.6.5.1 Automatic telephone-dialing devices. Automatic telephone- dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number unless approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

907.7Acceptance tests and completion. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.7.1Single-and multiple-station alarm devices.

When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each device and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the smoke alarm provisions of NFPA 72.

907.7.2Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.

907.7.3Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings ("as-builts") and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.

907.8Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Section 907.9 of the fire code.

SECTION 908 EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS

908.1Group H occupancies. Emergency alarms for the  detection  and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided in accordance with Section 414.7.

908.2Group H-5 occupancy. Emergency alarms for  notification  of  an emergency condition in an HPM facility shall be provided as required in Section 415.8.4.6. A continuous gas-detection system shall be provided for HPM gases in accordance with Section 415.8.7.

908.3Highly toxic and toxic materials. A gas detection system shall be provided to detect the presence of highly toxic or toxic gas at or below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) or ceiling limit of the gas for which detection is provided. The system shall be capable of monitoring the discharge from the treatment system at or below one-half the immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) limit.

Exception: A gas-detection system is not required for toxic gases when the physiological warning threshold level for the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL for the gas.

908.3.1Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to a constantly attended control station when a short-term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visible and audible and shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.

Exception: Signal transmission to a constantly attended control station is not required when not more than one cylinder of highly toxic or toxic gas is stored.

908.3.2Shutoff of gas supply. The gas detection system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for whichever gas is detected.

Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required for reactors utilized for the production of highly toxic or toxic compressed gases where such reactors are:

1.      Operated at pressures less than 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa).

2.      Constantly attended.

3.      Provided with readily accessible emergency shutoff valves.

908.3.3Valve closure. The automatic closure of shutoff valves shall be in accordance with the following:

1.      When the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.

2.      Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas room and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures, the shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.

3.      Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a piping distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve for the compressed container of specific gas detected supplying the manifold shall automatically close.

Exception: When the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas- detection system alarm is at a use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shutoff valve in  the  gas  valve  enclosure  for  the  branch  line  located  in  the  piping

distribution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.

908.4Ozone gas-generator rooms. Ozone gas-generator rooms shall be equipped with a continuous gas-detection system that will shut off the generator and sound a local alarm when concentrations above the PEL occur.

908.5Repair garages. A flammable-gas detection system shall be provided in repair garages for vehicles fueled by nonodorized gases in accordance with Section 406.6.6.

908.6Refrigerant detector. Machinery rooms shall contain a refrigerant detector with an audible and visual alarm. The detector, or a sampling tube that draws air to the detector, shall be located in an area where refrigerant from a leak will concentrate. The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greater than the corresponding TLV-TWA values for the refrigerant classification indicated in the mechanical code. Detectors and alarms shall be placed in approved locations.

SECTION 909 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

909.1Scope and purpose. This section applies to mechanical or passive smoke control systems when they are required by other provisions of this code. The purpose of this section is to establish minimum requirements for the design, installation and acceptance testing of smoke control systems that are intended to provide a tenable environment for the evacuation or relocation of occupants. These provisions are not intended for the preservation of contents, the timely restoration of operations or for assistance in fire suppression or overhaul activities. Smoke control systems regulated by this section serve a different purpose than the smoke-and heat-venting provisions found in Section 910. Mechanical smoke control systems shall not be considered exhaust systems under Chapter 5 of the mechanical code.

909.2General design requirements. Buildings, structures or parts thereof required by this code to have a smoke control system or systems shall have such systems designed in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 909 and the generally accepted and well-established principles of engineering relevant to the design. The construction documents shall include sufficient information and detail to adequately describe the elements of the design necessary for the proper implementation of the smoke control systems. These documents shall be accompanied by sufficient information and analysis to demonstrate compliance with these provisions.

909.3Special inspection and test requirements. In addition to the ordinary inspection and test requirements which buildings, structures and parts thereof are required to undergo, smoke control systems subject to the provisions of Section

909 shall undergo special inspections and tests sufficient to verify the proper commissioning of the smoke control design in its final installed condition. The design submission accompanying the construction documents shall clearly detail procedures and methods to be used and the items subject to such inspections and tests. Such commissioning shall be in accordance with generally accepted engineering practice and, where possible, based on published standards for the particular testing involved. The special inspections and tests required by this section shall be conducted under the same terms in Section 1704.

909.4Analysis. A rational analysis supporting the types of smoke control systems to be employed, their methods of operation, the systems supporting them and the methods of construction to be utilized shall accompany the submitted construction documents and shall include, but not be limited to, the items indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.6.

909.4.1 Stack effect. The system shall be designed such that the maximum probable normal or reverse stack effect will not adversely interfere with the system's  capabilities.  In  determining  the  maximum  probable  stack  effect, altitude, elevation, weather history and interior temperatures shall be used.   909.4.2 Temperature effect of fire. Buoyancy and expansion caused by the design fire in accordance with Section 909.9 shall be analyzed. The system shall be designed such that these effects do not adversely interfere with the system's capabilities.

909.4.3Wind effect. The design shall consider the adverse effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consistent with the wind-loading provisions of Chapter 16.

909.4.4HVAC systems. The design shall consider the effects of the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems on both smoke and fire transport. The analysis shall include all permutations of systems status. The design shall consider the effects of the fire on the HVAC systems.

909.4.5Climate. The design shall consider the effects of low temperatures on systems, property and occupants. Air inlets and exhausts shall be located so as to prevent snow or ice blockage.

909.4.6Duration of operation. All portions of active or passive  smoke control systems shall be capable of continued operation after detection of the fire event for a period of not less than either 20 minutes or 1.5 times the calculated egress time, whichever is less.

909.5 Smoke barrier construction. Where provided, smoke barriers shall comply with Section 710, and shall be constructed and sealed to limit leakage areas  exclusive of protected openings. The maximum allowable leakage area shall be the aggregate area calculated using the following leakage area ratios:

1. Walls:                   A/Aw = 0.00100

2.  Exit enclosures:    A/Aw = 0.00035

3.  All other shafts:   A/Aw = 0.00150

4.  Floors and roofs: A/AF = 0.00050

where:         

2

A = Total leakage area, square feet (m ).

2

AF = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m ).

2

Aw = Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m ).

The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due to doors, operable windows or similar gaps. These shall be included in calculating the total leakage area.

909.5.1Leakage area. The total leakage area of the barrier is the product of the smoke barrier gross area multiplied by the allowable leakage area ratio, plus the area of other openings such as gaps and operable windows. Compliance shall be determined by achieving the minimum air pressure difference across the barrier with the system in the smoke control mode for mechanical smoke control systems. Passive smoke control systems  tested using other approved means such as door fan testing shall be as approved by the building official.

909.5.2Opening protection. Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected by automatic-closing devices actuated by the required controls for the mechanical smoke control system. Door openings shall be protected by fire door assemblies complying with Section 715.4.3.

Exceptions:

1.      Passive smoke control systems with automatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing service installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

2.      Fixed openings between smoke zones that are protected utilizing the airflow method.

3.      In Group I-2, where such doors are installed across corridors, a pair of opposite-swinging doors without a center mullion shall be installed having vision panels with fire protection-rated glazing materials in fire protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested. The doors shall be close-fitting within operational tolerances and shall not have undercuts, louvers or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, astragals or rabbets at meeting edges and shall be automatic- closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 715.4.8.3. Positive-latching devices are not required.

4.      Group I-3.

5.      Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as determined by the design fire size.

909.5.2.1 Ducts and air transfer openings. Ducts and air transfer openings are required to be protected with a minimum Class II, 250°F (121°C) smoke damper complying with Section 716.

909.6Pressurization method. The primary mechanical means of controlling smoke shall be by pressure differences across smoke barriers. Maintenance of a tenable environment is not required in the smoke control zone of fire origin.

909.6.1Minimum pressure difference. The minimum pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be 0.05-inch water gage (0.0124 kPa) in fully sprinklered buildings.

In buildings permitted to be other than fully sprinklered, the smoke control system shall be designed to achieve pressure differences at least two times the maximum calculated pressure difference produced by the design fire.

909.6.2Maximum pressure difference. The maximum air pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be determined by required door- opening or closing forces. The actual force required to open exit doors when the system is in the smoke control mode shall be in accordance with Section 1008.1.2. Opening and closing forces for other doors shall be determined by standard engineering methods for the resolution of forces and reactions. The calculated force to set a side-hinged, swinging door in motion shall be determined by:

F = Fdc + K(WA∆ P)/2(W-d)                           (Equation 9-1)

where:

2

A = Door area, square feet (m ).

d = Distance from door handle to latch edge of door, feet (m).  F = Total door opening force, pounds (N).

Fdc = Force required to overcome closing device, pounds (N). K = Coefficient 5.2 (1.0).

W = Door width, feet (m).

∆ P = Design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa).

909.7Airflow design method. When approved by the building official, smoke migration through openings fixed in a permanently open position, which are located between smoke control zones by the use of the airflow method, shall be permitted. The design airflow shall be in accordance with this section. Airflow

shall be directed to limit smoke migration from the fire zone. The geometry of openings shall be considered to prevent flow reversal from turbulent effects.

909.7.1Velocity. The minimum average velocity through a fixed opening shall not be less than:

1/2

v = 217.2 [h (Tf -To)/(Tf + 460)]

1/2

For SI: v = 119.9 [h (Tf -To)/Tf]

where:

h = Height of opening, feet (m).

Tf = Temperature of smoke, °F (K).

To = Temperature of ambient air, °F (K).

v = Air velocity, feet per minute (m/minute).

(Equation 9-2)

909.7.2Prohibited conditions. This method shall not be  employed  where either the quantity of air or the velocity of the airflow will adversely affect other portions of the smoke control system, unduly intensify the fire, disrupt plume dynamics or interfere with exiting. In no case shall airflow toward the fire exceed 200 feet per minute (1.02 m/s). Where the formula in Section 909.7.1 requires airflow to exceed this limit, the airflow method shall not be used.

909.8Exhaust method. When approved by the building official, mechanical smoke control for large enclosed volumes, such as in atriums or malls, shall be permitted to utilize the exhaust method. Smoke control systems using the exhaust method shall be designed in accordance with NFPA 92B.

909.8.1Smoke layer. The height of the lowest horizontal surface of the smoke layer interface shall be maintained at least 6 feet (1829 mm) above any walking surface that forms a portion of a required egress system within the smoke zone.

909.9Design fire. The design fire shall be based on a rational analysis performed by the registered design professional and approved by the building official. The design fire shall be based on the analysis in accordance with Section 909.4 and this section.

909.9.1Factors considered. The engineering analysis shall include the characteristics of the fuel, fuel load, effects included by the fire and whether the fire is likely to be steady or unsteady.

909.9.2Separation distance. Determination of the design fire shall include consideration of the type of fuel, fuel spacing and configuration.

909.9.3Heat-release assumptions. The analysis shall make use of best available data from approved sources and shall not be based on excessively

stringent limitations of combustible material.

909.9.4Sprinkler effectiveness assumptions. A documented engineering analysis shall be provided for conditions that assume fire growth is halted at the time of sprinkler activation.

909.10Equipment. Equipment including, but not limited to, fans, ducts, automatic dampers and balance dampers, shall be suitable for its intended use, suitable for the probable exposure temperatures that the rational analysis indicates and as approved by the building official.

909.10.1Exhaust fans. Components of exhaust fans shall be rated and certified by the manufacturer for the probable temperature rise to which the components will be exposed. This temperature rise shall be computed by:

Ts =(Qc/mc)+(Ta)                     (Equation 9-3)

where:

c =  Specific heat of smoke at smoke layer temperature, Btu/lb°F (kJ/kg ·  K).

m = Exhaust rate, pounds per second (kg/s).

Qc = Convective heat output of fire, Btu/s (kW). Ta = Ambient temperature, °F (K).

Ts = Smoke temperature, °F (K).

Exception: Reduced Ts  as calculated based on the assurance of adequate dilution air.

909.10.2Ducts. Duct materials and joints shall be capable of withstanding the probable temperatures and pressures to which they are exposed as determined in accordance with Section 909.10.1. Ducts shall be constructed and supported in accordance with the mechanical code. Ducts shall be leak tested to 1.5 times the maximum design pressure in accordance with nationally accepted practices. Measured leakage shall not exceed 5 percent of design flow. Results of such testing shall be a part of the documentation procedure. Ducts shall be supported directly from fire-resistance-rated structural elements of the building by substantial, noncombustible supports.

Exception: Flexible connections (for the purpose of vibration isolation) complying with the mechanical code, that are constructed of approved fire-resistance-rated materials.

909.10.3Equipment, inlets and outlets. Equipment shall be located so as to not expose uninvolved portions of the building to an additional fire hazard. Outside air inlets shall be located so as to minimize the potential for introducing smoke or flame into the building. Exhaust outlets shall be so located as to minimize reintroduction of smoke into the building and to limit

exposure of the building or adjacent buildings to an additional fire hazard.   909.10.4 Automatic dampers. Automatic dampers, regardless of the purpose for which they are installed within the smoke control system, shall be listed and conform to the requirements of Section 716.3.

909.10.5 Fans. In addition to other requirements, belt-driven fans shall have  1.5 times the number of belts required for the design duty, with the minimum number of belts being two. Fans shall be selected for stable performance  based on normal temperature and, where applicable, elevated temperature.  Calculations and manufacturer's fan curves shall be part of the documentation procedures. Fans shall be supported and restrained by noncombustible devices in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 16. Motors driving fans shall  not be operated beyond their nameplate horsepower (kilowatts), as determined from measurement of actual current draw, and shall have a minimum service  factor of 1.15.

909.11Power systems. The smoke control system shall be supplied with two  sources of power. Primary power shall be from the normal building power  systems. Secondary power shall be from an approved standby source complying  with Chapter 27 of this code. The standby power source and its transfer switches  shall be in a room separate from the normal power transformers and switch gears and ventilated directly to and from the exterior. The room shall be enclosed with  not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or  horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

909.11.1Power sources and power surges. Elements of the smoke  management system relying on volatile memories or the like shall be supplied  with uninterruptable power sources of sufficient duration to span a 15-minute  primary power interruption. Elements of the smoke management system  susceptible to power surges shall be suitably protected by conditioners,  suppressors or other approved means.

909.12Detection and control systems. Fire detection systems providing control  input or output signals to mechanical smoke control systems or elements thereof  shall comply with the requirements of Section 907. Such systems shall be  equipped with a control unit complying with UL 864 and listed as smoke control equipment.

Control systems for mechanical smoke control systems shall include provisions for verification. Verification shall include positive confirmation of actuation, testing, manual override, the presence of power downstream of all disconnects and, through a preprogrammed weekly test sequence, report abnormal conditions audibly, visually and by printed report.

909.12.1Wiring. In addition to meeting requirements of NFPA 70, all wiring, regardless of voltage, shall be fully enclosed within continuous raceways.

909.12.2Activation. Smoke control systems shall be activated in accordance

with this section.

909.12.2.1Pressurization, airflow or exhaust method. Mechanical  smoke control systems using the pressurization, airflow or exhaust method shall have completely automatic control.

909.12.2.2Passive method. Passive smoke control systems actuated by  approved spot-type detectors listed for releasing service shall be permitted.

909.12.3Automatic control. Where completely automatic control is required  or used, the automatic-control sequences shall be initiated from an  appropriately zoned automatic sprinkler system complying with Section  903.3.1.1, manual controls that are readily accessible to the fire department  and any smoke detectors required by engineering analysis.

909.13Control air tubing. Control air tubing shall be of sufficient size to meet  the required response times. Tubing shall be flushed clean and dry prior to final  connections and shall be adequately supported and protected from damage.  Tubing passing through concrete or masonry shall be sleeved and protected from abrasion and electrolytic action.

 909.13.1 Materials. Control-air tubing shall be hard-drawn copper, Type L, ACR in accordance with ASTM B 42, ASTM B 43, ASTM B 68, ASTM B 88, ASTM B 251 and ASTM B 280. Fittings shall be wrought copper or brass, solder type in accordance with ASME B 16.18 or ASME B16.22. Changes in direction shall be made with appropriate tool bends. Brass compression-type fittings shall be used at final connection to devices; other joints shall be brazed using a BCuP5 brazing alloy with solidus above 1,100ºF (593ºC) and liquids below 1,500ºF (816ºC). Brazing flux shall be used on copper-to-brass joints only.

Exception: Nonmetallic tubing used within control panels and at the final connection to devices provided all of the following conditions are met:

1.      Tubing shall be listed by an approved agency for flame and smoke characteristics.

2.      Tubing and connected devices shall be completely enclosed within a galvanized or paint-grade steel enclosure having a minimum thickness of 0.0296 inch (0.7534 mm) (No. 22 gage). Entry to the enclosure shall be by copper tubing with a protective grommet of neoprene or teflon or by suitable brass compression to male barbed adapter.

3.      Tubing shall be identified by appropriately documented coding.

4.      Tubing shall be neatly tied and supported within the enclosure. Tubing bridging cabinets and doors or moveable devices shall be of sufficient length to avoid tension and excessive stress. Tubing shall be protected against abrasion. Tubing serving devices on doors shall be  fastened along hinges.

909.13.2Isolation from other functions. Control tubing serving other than smoke control functions shall be isolated by automatic isolation valves or shall be an independent system.

909.13.3Testing. Control air tubing shall be tested at three times the operating pressure for not less than 30 minutes without any noticeable loss in gauge pressure prior to final connection to devices.

909.14Marking and identification. The detection and control systems shall be clearly marked at all junctions, accesses and terminations.

909.15Control diagrams. Identical control diagrams showing all devices in the system and identifying their location and function shall be maintained current and kept on file with the building official, the fire department and in the fire command center in a format and manner approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

909.16Fire-fighter's smoke control panel. A fire-fighter's smoke control panel for fire department emergency response purposes only shall be provided and shall include manual control or override of automatic control for mechanical smoke control systems. The panel shall be located in a fire command center complying with Section 911 in high-rise buildings or buildings with smoke-protected assembly seating. In all other buildings, the fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall be installed in an approved location adjacent to the fire alarm control panel. The fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall comply with Sections 909.16.1 through 909.16.3.

909.16.1Smoke control systems. Fans within the building shall be shown on the fire-fighter's control panel. A clear indication of the direction of airflow and the relationship of components shall be displayed. Status indicators shall be provided for all smoke control equipment, annunciated by fan and zone, and by pilot-lamp-type indicators as follows:

1.      Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their normal status- WHITE.

2.      Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their off or closed status-RED.

3.      Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their on or open status-GREEN.

4.      Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in a fault status- YELLOW/AMBER.

909.16.2Smoke control panel. The fire-fighter's control panel shall provide control capability over the complete smoke-control system equipment within the building as follows:

1.      ON-AUTO-OFF control over each individual piece of operating smoke control equipment that can also be controlled from other sources within the building. This includes stairway pressurization fans; smoke exhaust

fans;  supply,  return  and  exhaust  fans;  elevator  shaft  fans  and  other operating equipment used or intended for smoke control purposes.

2.      OPEN-AUTO-CLOSE control over individual dampers relating to smoke control and that are also controlled from other sources within the building.

3.      ON-OFF or OPEN-CLOSE control over smoke control and other critical equipment associated with a fire or smoke emergency and that can only be controlled from the fire-fighter's control panel.

Exceptions:

1.      Complex systems, where approved,where the controls and indicators are combined to control and indicate all elements of a single smoke zone as a unit.

2.      Complex systems, where approved,where the control is accomplished  by computer interface using approved, plain English commands.

909.16.3Control  action  and  priorities.  The  firefighter's  control  panel actions shall be as follows:

1.ON-OFF and OPEN-CLOSE control actions shall have the highest priority of any control point within the building. Once issued from the fire- fighter's control panel, no automatic or manual control from any other control point within the building shall contradict the control action. Where automatic means are provided to interrupt normal, nonemergency equipment operation or produce a specific result to safeguard the building or equipment (i.e., duct freezestats, duct smoke detectors, high- temperature cutouts, temperature-actuated linkage and similar devices), such means shall be capable of being overridden by the fire-fighter's control panel. The last control action as indicated by each fire-fighter's control panel switch position shall prevail. In no case shall control actions require the smoke control system to assume more than one configuration at any one time.

Exception: Power disconnects required by NFPA 70.

2.Only the AUTO position of each three-position fire-fighter's control panel switch shall allow automatic or manual control action from other control points within the building. The AUTO position shall be the NORMAL, nonemergency, building control position. Where a fire-fighter's control panel is in the AUTO position, the actual status of the device (on, off, open, closed) shall continue to be indicated by the status indicator described above. When directed by an automatic signal to assume an emergency condition, the NORMAL position shall become the emergency condition for that device or group of devices within the zone. In no case shall control actions require the smoke control system to assume more

than one configuration at any one time.

909.17System response time. Smoke-control system activation shall be initiated immediately after receipt of an appropriate automatic or manual activation command. Smoke control systems shall activate individual components (such as dampers and fans) in the sequence necessary to prevent physical damage to the fans, dampers, ducts and other equipment. For purposes of smoke control, the fire-fighter's control panel response time shall be the same for automatic or manual smoke control action initiated from any other building control point. The total response time, including that necessary for detection, shutdown of operating equipment and smoke control system startup, shall allow for full operational mode to be achieved before the conditions in the space exceed the design smoke condition. The system response time for each component and their sequential relationships shall be detailed in the required rational analysis and verification of their installed condition reported in the required final report.

909.18Acceptance testing. Devices, equipment, components and sequences shall be individually tested. These tests, in addition to those required by other provisions of this code, shall consist of determination of function, sequence and, where applicable, capacity of their installed condition.

909.18.1Detection devices. Smoke or fire detectors that are a part of a smoke control system shall be tested in accordance with Chapter 9 in their installed condition. When applicable, this testing shall include verification of airflow in both minimum and maximum conditions.

909.18.2Ducts. Ducts that are part of a smoke control system shall be traversed using generally accepted practices to determine actual air quantities.   909.18.3 Dampers. Dampers shall be tested for function in their installed condition.

909.18.4Inlets and outlets. Inlets and outlets shall be read using generally accepted practices to determine air quantities.

909.18.5Fans. Fans shall be examined for correct rotation. Measurements of voltage, amperage, revolutions per minute (rpm) and belt tension shall be made.

909.18.6Smoke barriers. Measurements using inclined manometers or other approved calibrated measuring devices shall be made of the pressure differences across smoke barriers. Such measurements shall be conducted for each possible smoke control condition.

909.18.7Controls. Each smoke zone equipped with an automatic-initiation device shall be put into operation by the actuation of one such device. Each additional device within the zone shall be verified to cause the same sequence without requiring the operation of fan motors in order to prevent damage. Control sequences shall be verified throughout the system, including verification of override from the fire-fighter's control panel and simulation of

standby power conditions.

909.18.8Special inspections for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.

909.18.8.1Scope of testing. Special inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the following:

1.      During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.

2.      Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure-difference testing, flow measurements, and detection and control verification.

909.18.8.2Qualifications. Special inspection agencies for smoke control shall have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.

909.18.8.3Reports. A complete report of testing shall be prepared by the special inspector or special inspection agency. The report shall include identification of all devices by manufacturer, nameplate data, design values, measured values and identification tag or mark. The report shall be reviewed by the responsible registered design professional and, when satisfied that the design intent has been achieved, the responsible registered design professional shall seal, sign and date the report.

909.18.8.3.1 Report filing. A copy of the final report shall be filed with the building official and an identical copy shall be maintained in an approved location at the building.

909.18.9Identification and documentation. Charts, drawings and other documents identifying and locating each component of the smoke control system, and describing its proper function and maintenance requirements, shall be maintained on file at the building as an attachment to the report required by Section 909.18.8.3. Devices shall have an approved identifying tag or mark on them consistent with the other required documentation and shall be dated indicating the last time they were successfully tested and by whom.

 909.19 System acceptance. Buildings, or portions thereof, required by this code to comply with this section shall not be issued a certificate of occupancy until such time that the building official determines that the provisions of this section have been fully complied with and that the fire department has received satisfactory instruction on the operation, both automatic and manual, of the system.

Exception: In buildings of phased construction, a temporary certificate of occupancy, as approved by the building official, shall be allowed provided that those portions of the building to be occupied meet the requirements of this

section and that the remainder does not pose a significant hazard to the safety of the proposed occupants or adjacent buildings.

909.20Smokeproof enclosures. Where required by Section 1022.9, a smokeproof enclosure shall be constructed in accordance with this section. A smokeproof enclosure shall consist of an enclosed interior exit stairway that conforms to Section 1022.1 and an open exterior balcony or ventilated vestibule meeting the requirements of this section. Where access to the roof is required by the Section 1009.13, such access shall be from the smokeproof enclosure where a smokeproof enclosure is required.

909.20.1Access. Access to the stair shall be by way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony. The minimum dimension of the vestibule shall not be less than the required width of the corridor leading to the vestibule but shall not have a width of less than 44 inches (1118 mm) and shall not have a length of less than 72 inches (1829 mm) in the direction of egress travel.

909.20.2Construction. The smokeproof enclosure shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both. Openings are not permitted other than the required means of egress doors. The vestibule shall be separated from the stairway by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both. The open exterior balcony shall be constructed in accordance with the fire-resistance rating requirements for floor assemblies.

909.20.2.1Door closers. Doors in a smokeproof enclosure shall be self-or automatic closing by actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 715.4 and shall be installed at the floor-side entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. The actuation of the smoke detector on any door shall activate the closing devices on all doors in the smokeproof enclosure at all levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

909.20.3Natural ventilation alternative. The provisions of Sections 909.20.3.1 through 909.20.3.3 shall apply to ventilation of smokeproof enclosures by natural means.

909.20.3.1Balcony doors. Where access to the stairway is by way of an open exterior balcony, the door assembly into the enclosure shall be a fire door assembly in accordance with Section 715.4.

909.20.3.2Vestibule doors. Where access to the stairway is by way of a vestibule,  the  door  assembly  into  the  vestibule  shall  be  a  fire  door

assembly complying with Section 715.4. The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway shall have not less than a 20-minute fire protection rating complying with Section 715.4.

909.20.3.3Vestibule ventilation. Each vestibule shall have a minimum

2

net area of 16 square feet (1.5 m )of opening in a wall facing an outer

court, yard or public way that is at least 20 feet (6096 mm) in width.

909.20.4Mechanical ventilation alternative. The provisions of Sections 909.20.4.1 through 909.20.4.4 shall apply to ventilation of smokeproof enclosures by mechanical means.

909.20.4.1Vestibule doors. The door assembly from the building into the vestibule shall be a fire door assembly complying with Section 715.4.3. The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway shall not have less than a 20-minute fire protection rating and meet the requirements for a smoke door assembly in accordance with Section 715.4.3. The door shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 105.

909.20.4.2Vestibule ventilation. The vestibule shall be supplied with not less than one air change per minute and the exhaust shall not be less than 150 percent of supply. Supply air shall enter and exhaust air shall discharge from the vestibule through separate, tightly constructed ducts used only for that purpose. Supply air shall enter the vestibule within 6 inches (152 mm) of the floor level. The top of the exhaust register shall be located at the top of the smoke trap but not more than 6 inches (152 mm) down from the top of the trap, and shall be entirely within the smoke trap area. Doors in the open position shall not obstruct duct openings. Duct openings with controlling dampers are permitted where necessary to meet the design requirements, but dampers are not otherwise required.

909.20.4.2.1 Engineered ventilation system. Where a specially engineered system is used, the system shall exhaust a quantity of air equal to not less than 90 air changes per hour from any vestibule in the emergency operation mode and shall be sized to handle three vestibules simultaneously. Smoke detectors shall be located at the floor-side entrance to each vestibule and shall activate the system for the affected vestibule. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

909.20.4.3Smoke trap. The vestibule ceiling shall be at least 20 inches (508 mm) higher than the door opening into the vestibule to serve as a smoke and heat trap and to provide an upward-moving air column. The height shall not be decreased unless approved and justified by design and test.

909.20.4.4Stair shaft air movement system. The stair shaft shall be provided with a dampered relief opening and supplied with sufficient air to maintain a minimum positive pressure of 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) in the shaft relative to the vestibule with all doors closed.

909.20.5Stair pressurization alternative. Where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the vestibule is not required, provided that interior exit stairways are pressurized to a minimum of 0.10 inches of water (25 Pa) and a maximum of 0.35 inches of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all stairway doors closed under maximum anticipated conditions of stack effect and wind effect.

909.20.6Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment required by the alternatives in Sections 909.20.4 and 909.20.5 shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an approved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. When the closing device for the stair shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

909.20.6.1Ventilation systems. Smokeproof enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:

1.      Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and directly connected to the smokeproof enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

2.      Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

3.      Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2- hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

Exceptions:

1.      Control wiring and power wiring utilizing a 2-hour rated cable or  cable system.

2.      Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.   909.20.6.2 Standby power. Mechanical vestibule and stair shaft ventilation systems  and  automatic  fire  detection  systems  shall  be  powered  by  an approved standby power system conforming to Section 403.4.7 and Chapter 27.

909.20.6.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the building official to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.

SECTION 910 SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS

910.1General. Where required by this code or otherwise installed, smoke and heat vents, or mechanical smoke exhaust systems, and draft curtains shall conform to the requirements of this section.

Exceptions:

1.      Frozen  food  warehouses  used  solely  for  storage  of  Class  I  and  II commodities where protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.

2.      Where areas of buildings are equipped with early suppression fast- response (ESFR) sprinklers, smoke and heat vents shall not be required within these areas.

910.2Where required. Smoke and heat vents, an approved mechanical smoke exhaust system, or an approved manually activated smoke exhaust system shall be installed in the roofs of one-story buildings or portions thereof occupied for the uses set forth in Sections 910.2.1 and 910.2.3.

910.2.1Group F-1 or S-1. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group F-

2

1  or  S-1  occupancy  having  more  than  50,000  square  feet  (4645  m )  in

undivided area.

Exception: Group S-1 aircraft repair hangars.

910.2.2High-piled  combustible  storage.  Buildings  and  portions  thereof containing high-piled combustible stock or rack storage in any occupancy group in accordance with Section 413 and Chapter 23 of the fire code.   910.2.3 Exit access travel distance increase.  Buildings and portions thereof used  as  a  Group  F-1  or  S-1  occupancy  where  the  maximum  exit  travel distance is increased in accordance with Section 1016.3.

910.3Design and installation. The design and installation of smoke and heat vents and draft curtains shall be as specified in Sections 910.3.1 through 910.3.5.2 and Table 910.3.

910.3.1Design. Smoke and heat vents shall be listed and labeled to indicate compliance with UL 793.

910.3.2Vent operation. Smoke and heat vents shall be capable of being operated by approved automatic and manual means. Automatic operation of smoke and heat vents shall conform to the provisions of Sections 910.3.2.1 through 910.3.2.3.

910.3.2.1Gravity-operated drop-out vents. Automatic smoke and heat vents containing heat-sensitive glazing designed to shrink and drop out of the vent opening when exposed to fire shall fully open within 5 minutes after the vent cavity is exposed to a simulated fire, represented by a time- temperature gradient that reaches an air temperature of 500°F (260°C) within 5 minutes.

910.3.2.2Sprinklered buildings. Where installed in buildings provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to operate automatically.

910.3.2.3Nonsprinklered buildings. Where installed in buildings not provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall operate automatically by actuation of a heat-responsive device rated at between 100°F (38°C) and 220°F (104°C) above ambient.

  Exception:  Gravity-operated  drop-out  vents  complying  with  Section 910.3.2.1.

910.3.3Vent dimensions. The effective venting area shall not be less than 16 square feet (1.5 m2) with no dimension less than 4 feet (1219 mm), excluding ribs or gutters having a total width not exceeding 6 inches (152 mm).

910.3.4Vent locations. Smoke and heat vents shall be located 20 feet (6096 mm) or more from adjacent lot lines and fire walls and 10 feet (3048 mm) or more from fire barriers. Vents shall be uniformly located within the roof in the areas of the building where the vents are required to be installed by Section 910.2 with consideration given to roof pitch, draft curtain location, sprinkler location and structural members.

910.3.5Draft curtains. Where required by Table 910.3, draft curtains shall be installed on the underside of the roof in accordance with this section.

Exception: Where areas of buildings are equipped with ESFR sprinklers, draft curtains shall not be provided within these areas. Draft curtains shall only be provided at the separation between the ESFR sprinklers and the non- ESFR sprinklers.

910.3.5.1Construction. Draft curtains shall be constructed of sheet metal,

lath and plaster, gypsum board or other approved materials which provide equivalent performance to resist the passage of smoke. Joints and connections shall be smoke tight.

TABLE 910.3

REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAFT CURTAINS AND SMOKE AND HEAT

a

VENTS

OCCUPANCY	DESIGNATED	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM	VENT-	MAXIMUM	MAXIMUM
			AREA			DISTANCE
			FORMED BY	AREATO-	SPACING	FROM VENTS
GROUP AND		DRAFT	DRAFT	FLOOR-	OF VENT	TO WALL OR
COMMODITY	STORAGE	CURTAIN	CURTAINS	AREA	CENTERS	DRAFT
CLASSIFICATION	HEIGHT (feet)	DEPTH (feet)	(square feet)	RATIOc	(feet)	CURTAINb (feet)
Group F-1 and S-1	-	0.2 × Hd but ? 4	50,000	1:100	120	60
High-piled Storage  (see Section 910.2.2)  Class I-IV commodities (Option 1)	?  20	6	10,000	1:100	100	60
	> 20 ?  40	6	8,000	1:75	100	55
High-piled Storage  (see Section 910.2.2)  Class I-IV commodities (Option 2)	?  20	4	3,000	1:75	100	55
	> 20 ?  40	4	3,000	1:50	100	50
High-piled Storage  (see Section 910.2.2)  High-hazard  commodities  (Option 1)	?  20	6	6,000	1:50	100	50
	> 20 ?  30	6	6,000	1:40	90	45
High-piled Storage  (see Section 910.2.2)  High-hazard commodities  (Option 2)	?  20	4	4,000	1:50	100	50
	> 20 ?  30	4	2,000	1:30	75	40

 

 

2

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m .

a. Additional requirements for rack storage heights in excess of those indicated shall be in  accordance with Chapter 23 of the fire code. For solid-piled storage heights in excess of those  indicated, an approved engineered design shall be used.

b.Vents adjacent to walls or draft curtains shall be located within a horizontal distance not greater  than the maximum distance specified in this column as measured perpendicular to the wall or  draft curtain that forms the perimeter of the draft curtained area.

c.Where draft curtains are not required, the vent area to floor area ratio shall be calculated based  on a minimum draft curtain depth of 6 feet (Option 1).

d."H" is the height of the vent, in feet, above the floor.

910.3.5.2Location and depth. The location and minimum depth of draft curtains shall be in accordance with Table 910.3.

910.4Mechanical smoke exhaust. Where approved by the building official, engineered mechanical smoke exhaust shall be an acceptable alternate to smoke and heat vents.

910.4.1Location. Exhaust fans shall be uniformly spaced within each draft- curtained area and the maximum distance between fans shall not be greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).

910.4.2Size. Fans shall have a maximum individual capacity of 30,000 cfm

3

(14.2 m /s). The aggregate capacity of smoke exhaust fans shall be determined

by the equation:

C = A × 300                         (Equation 9-4)   where:

C = Capacity of mechanical ventilation required, in cubic feet per minute  (m3/s).

A = Area of roof vents provided in square feet (m2) in accordance with Table 910.3.

910.4.3Operation. Mechanical smoke exhaust fans shall be automatically activated by the automatic sprinkler system or by heat detectors having operating characteristics equivalent to those described in Section 910.3.2. Individual manual controls of each fan unit shall also be provided.

910.4.4Wiring and control. Wiring for operation and control of smoke exhaust fans shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect and protected against exposure to temperatures in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes. Controls shall be located so as to be immediately accessible to the fire service from the exterior of the building and protected against interior fire exposure by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

910.4.5Supply air. Supply air for exhaust fans shall be provided at or near the floor level and shall be sized to provide a minimum of 50 percent of required exhaust. Openings for supply air shall be uniformly distributed around the periphery of the area served.

910.4.6Interlocks. In combination comfort air-handling/smoke removal systems or independent comfort air-handling systems, fans shall be controlled to shut down in accordance with the approved smoke control sequence.

910.5Manually activated smoke exhaust system. A manually activated smoke  exhaust system shall be an acceptable alternate to smoke and heat vents and to  allow for the increased travel distance option provided in Section 1016.3.

910.5.1Location.  Exhaust fans shall be uniformly spaced throughout the  Group F-1 or S-1 portion of the building.

910.5.2Size. Fans shall have a maximum individual capacity of 50,000  cubic feet per minute (cfm) and provide a minimum of two air changes per hour.

910.5.3Operation.  Smoke exhaust fans shall be manually activated by  individual manual controls.

910.5.4Wiring and control. Wiring for operation and control of smoke  exhaust fans shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect and  protected against exposure to temperatures in excess of 1000 degrees F  (538 degrees C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes. Controls shall  be located so as to be immediately accessible to the fire service from the exterior of the building and protected against interior fire exposure by not  less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707  or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or  both.

910.5.5Supply air. Supply air for exhaust fans shall be provided at or  near the floor level and shall be sized to provide a minimum of 50 percent  of required exhaust. Supply air for exhaust fans shall be uniformly distributed around the periphery of the area served.

910.5.6   Interlocks. Combination comfort air-handling/manually activated smoke exhaust systems are permitted. In combination comfort air- handling/manually activated smoke exhaust systems or independent comfort air-handling systems, the comfort air-handling system fans shall be controlled to automatically shut down upon duct or area smoke detector activation or sprinkler system water flow as specified in the approved manually activated smoke exhaust system sequence  of operation.

SECTION 911

FIRE COMMAND CENTER

911.1General. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by this code, a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and shall comply with Sections 911.1.1 through 911.1.5.

911.1.1Location and access. The location and accessibility of the fire command center shall be approved by the building official with input from the  fire chief.

911.1.2Separation. The fire command center shall be separated from the

remainder of the building by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

2

911.1.3Size. The room shall be a minimum of 200 square feet (19 m ) with a

minimum dimension of 10 feet (3048 mm).

911.1.4Layout approval. A layout of the fire command center and  all features required by this section to be contained therein shall be submitted for approval prior to installation.

911.1.5Required features. The fire command center shall comply  with NFPA 72 and shall contain the following features:

1.      The emergency voice/alarm communication system control unit.

2.      The fire department communications system.

3.      Fire detection and alarm system annunciator.

4.      Annunciator unit visually indicating the location of the elevators and whether they are operational.

5.      Status indicators and controls for air distribution systems.

6.      The fire-fighter's control panel required by Section 909.16 for smoke control systems installed in the building.

7.      Controls for unlocking stairway doors simultaneously.

8.      Sprinkler valve and waterflow detector display panels.

9.      Emergency and standby power status indicators.

10.  A telephone for fire department use with controlled access to the public telephone system.

11.  Fire pump status indicators.

12.  Schematic building plans indicating the typical floor plan and detailing the building core, means of egress, fire protection systems, fire-fighting equipment and fire department access and the location of fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions.

13.  Work table.

14.  Generator supervision devices, manual start and transfer features.

15.  Public address system, where specifically required by other sections of this code.

16.  Elevator fire recall switch in accordance with ASME A17.1.

17.  Elevator  emergency  or  standby  power  selector  switch(es),  where emergency or standby power is provided.

SECTION 912

FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS

912.1Installation. Fire department connections shall be installed in accordance with the NFPA standard applicable to the system design and shall comply with

Sections 912.2 through 912.5.

Exceptions: Fire department connections are not required for:

1.  Limited area sprinkler systems supplied from the domestic water system. 2. Automatic sprinkler systems having less than 20 sprinklers.

912.2Location. With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the system will not obstruct access to the buildings for other fire apparatus. The location of fire department connections shall be approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

912.2.1Visible location. Fire department connections shall be located on the street side of buildings, fully visible and recognizable from the street  or nearest point of fire department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

912.2.2Existing buildings. On existing buildings, wherever the fire department connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign mounted on the street front or on the side of the building. Such sign shall have the letters "FDC" at least 6 inches (152 mm) high and words in letters at least 2 inches (51 mm) high or an arrow to indicate the location. All such signs shall be subject to the approval of the building official.

912.3Access. Immediate access to fire department connections shall be maintained at all times and without obstruction by fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other fixed or moveable object. Access to fire department connections shall be approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

Exception: Fences, where provided with an access gate equipped with a sign complying with the legend requirements of Section 912.4 and a means of emergency operation. The gate and the means of emergency operation shall be approved by the building official with input from the fire chief and maintained operational at all times.

912.3.1Locking fire department connection caps.

The building official is authorized to require locking caps on fire department connections for water-based fire protection systems where the responding fire department carries appropriate key wrenches for removal.

912.3.2Clear space around connections. A working space of not less than  36 inches (762 mm) in width, 36 inches (914 mm) in depth and 78 inches  (1981 mm) in height shall be provided and maintained in front of and to the  sides of wall-mounted fire department connections and around the  circumference of free-standing fire department connections, except as  otherwise required or approved by the building official with input from the fire chief.

912.3.3Physical protection. Where fire department connections are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312 of the fire code.

912.4Signs. A metal sign with raised letters at least 1 inch (25 mm) in size shall be mounted on all fire department connections serving automatic sprinklers, standpipes or fire pump connections. Such signs shall read: AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS or STANDPIPES or TEST CONNECTION or a combination thereof as applicable. Where the fire department connection does not serve the entire building, a sign shall be provided indicating the portions of the building served.

912.5Backflow protection. The potable water supply to automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems shall be protected against backflow as required by the  plumbing code.

SECTION 913 FIRE PUMPS

913.1General. Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 20.

913.1.1Minimum suction pressure to be maintained. When a fire pump is installed, the "Ohio Environmental Protection Agency" requires the installation of a low pressure cut-off or a low suction throttling valve to ensure that a minimum of 10 psi is maintained in the suction line while the pump is operating (see rule 3745-95-07 of the Administrative Code).

913.2Protection against interruption of service. The fire pump, driver and controller shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism and other adverse conditions.

913.2.1Protection of fire pump rooms. Fire pumps shall be located in rooms that are separated from all other areas of the building by 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both.

Exceptions:

1.      In other than high-rise buildings, separation by 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or 1-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712, or both, shall be permitted in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

2.      Separation  is  not  required  for  fire  pumps  physically  separated  in

accordance with NFPA 20.

913.3Temperature of pump room. Suitable means shall be provided for maintaining the temperature of a pump room or pump house, where required, above 40°F (5°C).

913.3.1Engine manufacturer's recommendation. Temperature of the pump room, pump house or area where engines are installed shall never be less than the minimum recommended by the engine manufacturer. The engine manufacturer's recommendations for oil heaters shall be followed.

  913.4 Valve supervision. Where provided, the fire pump suction, discharge and bypass valves, and isolation valves on the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be supervised open by one of the following methods:

1.      Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling service.

2.      Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an audible signal at a constantly attended location.

3.      Locking valves open.

4.      Sealing of valves and approved weekly recorded inspection where valves are located within fenced enclosures under the control of the owner.

913.4.1 Test outlet valve supervision. Fire pump test outlet valves shall be supervised, sealed, or locked in the closed position.

913.5 Acceptance test. Acceptance testing shall be done in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 20 and Section 901.5.

SECTION 914

EMERGENCY RESPONDER SAFETY FEATURES

914.1Shaftway markings.  Vertical shafts shall be identified as required by  Sections 914.1.1 and 914.1.2

914.1.1Exterior access to shaftways. Outside openings accessible to the fire department and that open directly on a hoistway or shaftway communicating between two or more floors in a building shall be plainly marked with the word "SHAFTWAY" in red letters at least 6 inches (152 mm) high on a white background. Such warning signs shall be placed so as to be readily discernible from the outside of the building.

914.1.2Interior access to shaftways. Door or window openings to a hoistway or shaftway from the interior of the building shall be plainly marked with the word "SHAFTWAY" in red letters at least 6 inches (152 mm) high on a white background. Such warning signs shall be placed so as to be readily discernible.

Exception: Markings shall not be required on shaftway openings that are readily discernible as openings onto a shaftway by the construction or arrangement.

914.2Equipment room identification. Fire protection equipment shall be identified in an approved manner. Rooms containing controls for air-conditioning systems, sprinkler risers and valves or other fire detection, suppression or control elements shall be identified for the use of the fire department. Approved signs required to identify fire protection equipment and equipment location shall be constructed of durable materials, permanently installed and readily visible.

SECTION 915

EMERGENCY RESPONDER RADIO COVERAGE

915.1 General. Emergency responder radio coverage shall be provided in all new buildings in accordance with Section 510 of the fire code.

Replaces:                                                     4101:1-9-01

Effective:                                                     11/01/2011

R.C. 119.032 review dates:                         11/01/2016

CERTIFIED ELECTRONICALLY

Certification

07/29/2011

Date

Promulgated Under:                           119.03

Statutory Authority:                           3781.10(A)

Rule Amplifies:                                  3781.10, 3781.11, 3791.04

Prior Effective Dates:                         7/1/79, 1/1/81, 7/1/82, 3/1/85, 7/1/85, 3/1/86, 9/1/86,

1/1/89, 1/1/90, 8/1/90, 9/1/92, 2/1/93, 7/1/85, 3/1/98,

1/1/02, 1/1/03, 8/15/03, 1/1/04, 3/1/05, 9/6/05, 3/1/06,

7/1/06, 7/1/07, 1/1/09