NFPA Regulations on Sprinkler Systems

Sprinkler systems save lives, which is why the NFPA made them mandatory for many buildings.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has issued guidelines in fire protection and fire suppression. NFPA Regulation 13 is titled "Installation of Sprinkler Systems" and was the first, unified sprinkler system design regulation in the United States.

Design Regulations

According to "Design and Layout of Fire Sprinkler Systems" by Mark Bromann, NFPA 30 applies to sprinkler system design for areas storing flammable and combustible liquids while NFPA 30B should be followed when manufacturing or storing aerosol products. NFPA Standard 17 covers dry chemical fire suppression systems.

Required and Optional Locations

The book, "Operation of Fire Protection Systems" by Arthur Cote states that NFPA Regulation 101 mandates sprinkler systems in high rise buildings and in buildings where evacuation is impractical like health care facilities and nursing homes. Sprinklers are optional in private homes. Sprinklers are not required to be installed in buildings built before NFPA regulations were passed. The NFPA standards require fast response sprinkler systems in large public buildings like hotels and schools.

Sprinkler Head Spacing

Sprinkler heads cannot be further than 15 feet apart or closer than 6 feet apart. In areas deemed extra hazard occupancy, the maximum distance between sprinkler heads is reduced to a maximum of 12 feet apart.

References

• "Design and Layout of Fire Sprinkler Systems"; Mark Bromann; 2001
• "Chief Fire Officer's Desk Reference"; John M. Buckman, III; 2005
• "Operation of Fire Protection Systems"; Arthur Cote; 2003
• "Fire and Emergency Service Administration"; L. Charles Smeby; 2005

Resources

• "McGraw-Hill Construction Locator"; Joseph A. MacDonald; 2006