Interpretation #7023
Published July 03, 2012
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Building
- Chapter
- 9
- Section
- 903
- Topic
- Fire Sprinklers
Question
Is it the intent of the code that attics in three-story tunnel form construction (type V-A) apartment buildings be sprinklered?
Answer Published 07/03/2012 at 5:13 PM
The question does not mention whether it is an NFPA-13 or
13R system. However, under the FBC, fire sprinkler
protection of the attic (concealed combustible space) would
only be required if the fire sprinkler system is being
installed in accordance with NFPA 13 and the exceptions
applicable to elminating fire sprinklers in a concealed
combustible spaces, contained in NFPA 13, have not been
met. An NFPA 13R system would not require protection of the
attic (concealed combustible
space.)
13R system. However, under the FBC, fire sprinkler
protection of the attic (concealed combustible space) would
only be required if the fire sprinkler system is being
installed in accordance with NFPA 13 and the exceptions
applicable to elminating fire sprinklers in a concealed
combustible spaces, contained in NFPA 13, have not been
met. An NFPA 13R system would not require protection of the
attic (concealed combustible
space.)
Commentary
As a note, this is an interpretation by the Fire Marshal
so it is assumed that the Fire Marshall is commenting based
on the FFPC and not the FBC. This committee can only
interprete the FBC. However, please note that there is
nothing in the FFPC that would require this type of
protection if the fire sprinkler system is not required to
be an NFPA 13 system.