Vertical Obstruction query c/w pics 3

[ContractorDave]

I have a recreation center that has architectural sound baffling hung vertically below sprinklers. It would appear to conform to NFPA 13 sec 8.10.6.2.2 but please look at pics at

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9995775@N05/

Any thoughts?

Regards
Dave

 

[cdafd]

Hard to tell if good or bad from the pictures. I would look at the distance the sprinkler heads are from the curtains to the head. you can use the section cited and may look at 8.14.2 2002 edition applies to open grid but gives distances from the head to the ceiling tile

I do not think you have a problem as long as the heads are a foot or more above the curtains. The other thing is is this an assembly building?? if so are the curtains flame retardant. If not should be, and if not they may open more heads do to fire spreading from curatin to curtain. Not and FPE or designer just have feelings.

 

[stookeyfpe]

You may have a much bigger problem than NFPA 13. Under the 2006 IFC requirements in Chapter 8 for interior finish and trim, such a design in both photos is most likely not permitted.

Has anyone evaluated the color panels for flame spread and smoke production or compliance with NFPA 701? Also, what is the occupany classification of the building?

I looked at both photos and I am nervous. I think these architectural enhancements violate IFC section 807.1.2 for combustible decorative materials on ceilings.

 

[cdafd]

lightecho

do you mind stating what you do for a living???

 

[ContractorDave]

Thanks for both of your replies.

The building is a public swimming pool. In conversation with the Fire Marshal it appears that the 'decorative architectural baffles' were not installed as an original part of the facility, but added later. He was quite concerned about the baffles and the plastic palm trees.

I live in northern Canada (Igloo territory as it were) and standards for everything have been quite lax. We are trying to do something about that. Our company specializes in fire prevention systems (Clean Agents, CO2, Sprinklers, Dry / Wet chem., Foam, Fire Alarm Panels and equipment, Fire safety equipment, SCBA etc.) I have found this forum to be very helpful. Thanks for your help in the past and for this also.

Regards
D

 

[FFP1]

These baffles need to be treated as any other obstruction located below the sprinkler deflectors. The acceptable minumum vertical distance will depend on the type of head, but will be a minimum of 18 in. regardless of which sprinkler head is used.

I would suggest that you use NFPA 13 and apply all of the applicable codes regarding obstructions beneath the sprinklers. The most pertinent is probably Section 8.8.5.2.2 "Suspended or Floor-Mounted Vertical Obstructions" which states: The distance from sprinklers to privacy curtains, freestanding partitions, room dividers, and similar obstructions in light hazard occupancies shall be in accordance with Table 8.8.5.2.2 and Figure 8.8.5.2.2.

I hope this helps.

 

[ContractorDave]

FFP1,
Thank you for your response. The code relating to vertical obstructions as you note are the ones that concerned me. Strictly to the letter the baffles meet this code. My problem with it all was the size of the baffle and their center to center measurements of approx. 3'. And of course there are the non-sprinkler issues relating to NFPA 701 as sited by Stookey and inferred by CDAFD.

Regards
D