>From NFPA 1 (2012) with cross references to NFPA 101. Note that the last >sentence in the Annex implies that the equipment in concealed spaces should >also be removed.
4.5.8.3* Existing life safety features obvious to the public, if not required by the Code, shall be either maintained or removed. [101:4.6.12.3] A.4.5.8.3 Examples of such features include automatic sprinklers, fire alarm systems, standpipes, and portable fire extinguishers. The presence of a life safety feature, such as sprinklers or fire alarm devices, creates a reasonable expectation by the public that these safety features are functional. When systems are inoperable or taken out of service but the devices remain, they present a false sense of safety. Also, before taking any life safety features out of service, extreme care needs to be exercised to ensure that the feature is not required, was not originally provided as an alternative or equivalent, or is no longer required due to other new requirements in the current Code. It is not intended that the entire system or protection feature be removed. Instead, components such as sprinklers, initiating devices, notification appliances, standpipe hose, and exit systems should be removed to reduce the likelihood of relying on inoperable systems or features. Conversely, equipment, such as fire or smoke dampers, that is not obvious to the public should be able to be taken out of service if no longer required by this Code. [101: A.4.6.12.3] Yes, it is true that we install sprinklers in concealed spaces that are not "visually" inspected because it is not required by NFPA 25. However, those situations are required by code. This situation provides an inherent risk with no real benefit. Can you imagine the egg on your face/the industry if someone tried to punch a wire/conduit through the wall and activated the sprinkler causing water damage? I say take it out. Duane Johnson, PE Design Manager Strickland Fire Protection 5113 Berwyn Road College Park, Md. 20740 301-474-1136 Office 301-455-0010 Cell [email protected] -----Original Message----- From: Sprinklerforum [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Martinez, Dewayne Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2014 6:47 AM To: [email protected] Subject: sprinklers buried in walls I have a job that has an existing upright sprinkler system in which the GC has already built the walls to the deck and has encased some of the existing sprinkler heads in the walls. He is asking if we can just leave them and cut in new heads as needed. Is this acceptable per NFPA 13? Thanks, Dewayne _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/listinfo.cgi/sprinklerforum-firesprinkler.org _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/listinfo.cgi/sprinklerforum-firesprinkler.org
