Fire Alarm Pull station - height of Conduit protecting exposed wires

[Doberman]

Hi forum Members,

While conducting a fire alarm inspection, I notice pull stations in a warehouse with FPL (Red wire) running from the overhead (15 ft) down the support beam to a pull station. The wire was completely exposed. The pull Station is mounted 42 inches above the floor.

My concern is; Should the wire running down the beam be protected, Ran in conduit?

I found some training material stating it should be protected to 7 feet above the floor, but the NEC 760 is not specifically (alluding too) stating this requirement that I can comprehend. Can someone please clear this up for me?

Thank you!!

 

[RICK NAPIER]

Just what it says in 760.53(A)1 or 760.130(B)1.

 

[gadfly56]

If, at the time of commissioning and final inspection the AHJ was satisfied that the cable wasn't exposed to mechanical damage then there shouldn't be an issue with regard to it not being MC or run in EMT or RGS. This is not an adverse condition that should make it onto your inspection report unless there is evidence of prior or current damage. Remember, an inspection report is NOT an engineering evaluation. If you say on your report that additional smoke detector coverage is required in an area you are now providing design services (for free!) and frequently the AHJ takes your recommendation to be evidence of a deficiency and will tell the customer to "go do". If the customer is savvy and asks for a code reference you'd best be prepared, because partial smoke detector coverage is permitted by NFPA 72.

If there is a requirement for protection beyond what the code requires it should show up on the drawings or in the spec. FWIW, my practice has been to have my techs run a stick up the wall to above the drop ceiling, or above 7 feet in an open space such as a warehouse. In an open space they would usually put up a full stick (10') and run cable above that elevation.

 

[ron]

Just what it says in 760.53(A)1 or 760.130(B)1.

I never quite liked he clarity (or lack of) of those sections. They are not clear.

I wish it said that the cable shall not be exposed below 7' or some such language.

The current language seems to imply that it can be exposed on sidewalls and if within 7' AFF it needs to be securely fastened (but not necessarily in raceway).

 

[Doberman]

Best Responses.

Best Responses.

Thank you for your replies! Great advise. I do not get the same interest or concern from others at work. I just want to do the job correctly and provide the AHJ what they expect from a Fire Alarm system inspection report. Thank you again.