NFPA 13, 2019 edition section A.4.3.2(16) lists unused attics as light hazard. That said, it's always better to consider the definition of the hazard as opposed to automatically applying the lists from the annex. Section 4.3.2 defines LH as spaces with low quantity and combustibility of contents. And of course, Table 10.2.4.2.1(a) will dictate the spacing of standard sprinklers in the LH space, depending on the construction and whether obstructed or not. Unless you (and the AHJ) believe the plywood adds to the combustibility, there is a solid case for LH design in the unoccupied attic.
Just my thoughts Bob Caputo Have you visited afsasafetyportal.com yet? It's AFSA's member-only safety resource! This virtual library delivers the accident-prevention and safety-related information you need to educate your staff, help prevent claims, and create a safe work environment. Click here to learn more. -----Original Message----- From: Sprinklerforum <[email protected]> On Behalf Of Mike Morey via Sprinklerforum Sent: Wednesday, October 6, 2021 11:43 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Mike Morey <[email protected]> Subject: RE: Attic protection over a storage occupancy Maybe I wasn't clear, this is an existing unsprinklered building attached to a sprinklered building at a firewall. I presume when constructed it was per code. The intent is to add fire protection at the request of an insurance company. All areas would be protected as stated, my concern is whether or not a traditional light hazard attic design is appropriate for the space above the plywood ceiling given that it's a plastic storage warehouse below. Mike Morey CFPS 3229 * NICET S.E.T. 123677 Project Manager * Fire Protection Group Shambaugh & Son, LP an EMCOR Company 7614 Opportunity Drive * Fort Wayne, IN * 46825 direct 260.487.7824 / cell 260.417.0625 / fax 260.487.7991 email [email protected] -----Original Message----- From: Sprinklerforum <[email protected]> On Behalf Of Art Tiroly via Sprinklerforum Sent: Wednesday, October 6, 2021 11:36 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Art Tiroly <[email protected]> Subject: RE: Attic protection over a storage occupancy BE ADVISED - This email originated outside EMCOR. No building size is indicated. Does the building code require protection? Plastic storage may be considered a high hazard. If protection is a code requirement then the attic requires protection. Without protection a fire in the attic will likely cause a total loss of the building and contents. Art Tiroly ATCO Fire Protection -----Original Message----- From: Sprinklerforum <[email protected]> On Behalf Of Mike Morey via Sprinklerforum Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2021 10:59 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Mike Morey <[email protected]> Subject: Attic protection over a storage occupancy Applicable code/standards would be IBC 2012 and its references (NFPA 13 2010 mainly) I'm not coming up with a "why not" for this, but it doesn't give me a warm fuzzy. I have a wood framed "pole barn" being used for plastic storage in racks. The building is a standard 4:12 wood truss building with plywood sheathing at the bottom of the trusses (with a layer of fiberglass batts on them above) creating a flat ceiling at 18' AFF, walls are exposed 2x construction with fiberglass batts. I can't come up with a reason I can't protect the space below the plywood according to the storage requirements (looking at .6/2600 dry system, rack storage of Gp A plastic to 20' max <5' clear, doing CMDA both because they barely have 18" clear and they want a dry system) and the space above as an unused light hazard attic, potentially with "back to back" style attic heads. Anyone see a flaw with this logic, or any other pitfalls to watch for due to this construction scenario? I don't love this scenario but the customer went out of their way to avoid sprinklering the building origina lly and built it to the bottom dollar, but now a new insurance carrier may require it to be protected. Mike Morey CFPS 3229 * NICET S.E.T. 123677 Project Manager * Fire Protection Group Shambaugh & Son, LP an EMCOR Company 7614 Opportunity Drive * Fort Wayne, IN * 46825 direct 260.487.7824 / cell 260.417.0625 / fax 260.487.7991 email [email protected] This message is for the named person's use only. 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