PV SYSTEM- FIRE CODE - SECTION 605.11.3.3.3

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inforaj

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In fire Code 605.11.3.3.3 Smoke Ventilation. What is the exact meaning of this code?


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I really appreciate any help you can provide. Thanks in advance.
 
I read it as one single array of panels covering a roof surface cannot be greater than 150ft by 150ft.

If there are more panels than that space (150ft by 150ft) on a single roof you need to allow for the next section, number 2, pathway requirements.

I believe it would mean that if you have even a single row of panels that is longer than 150ft you would need a pathway as noted in number 2. But maybe somebody else can chime in on that.

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electro7 said:
I read it as one single array of panels covering a roof surface cannot be greater than 150ft by 150ft.

If there are more panels than that space (150ft by 150ft) on a single roof you need to allow for the next section, number 2, pathway requirements.

I believe it would mean that if you have even a single row of panels that is longer than 150ft you would need a pathway as noted in number 2. But maybe somebody else can chime in on that.

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Actually, the commercial building has a different height and all sections are less than 150 x 150 feet. I am not 100% sure about this. how this code will be applicable.
Per your response, codes 1 and 2.2 (because there are no skylights or smokes and heat vents available) will be not applicable. Now, I am wondering 2.1 and 2.3 codes. In which condition this will be applicable.
Here is the top view PV array.

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Ventilation in this case means that fire fighters need to given space to cut holes in the roof to let smoke and heat out if there's a fire inside the building. They need at least 4x8ft spaces to do this, unless they can use existing skylights or vents, in which case a 4ft path to such locations is sufficient. Since your arrays are less than 150ft you don't need pathways between them, but the fire marshal may still request you provide such an opportunity on each distinct roof surface.

It's hard to say exactly what it means without asking the fire marshal.
 
jaggedben said:
Ventilation in this case means that fire fighters need to given space to cut holes in the roof to let smoke and heat out if there's a fire inside the building. They need at least 4x8ft spaces to do this, unless they can use existing skylights or vents, in which case a 4ft path to such locations is sufficient. Since your arrays are less than 150ft you don't need pathways between them, but the fire marshal may still request you provide such an opportunity on each distinct roof surface.

It's hard to say exactly what it means without asking the fire marshal.
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That's correct. In the Fire Marshal comments, he copied and pasted the above code and mentioned that the architecture should follow the code. All the pathway and setback has a minimum of 4 feet.

It is tough to identify the exact solutions.
 
inforaj said:
That's correct. In the Fire Marshal comments, he copied and pasted the above code and mentioned that the architecture should follow the code. All the pathway and setback has a minimum of 4 feet.

It is tough to identify the exact solutions.
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I would ask him to tell you where he wants ventilation locations. I hope you're not in too much of a hurry.
 
ggunn said:
It's a judgement call if those arrays that are on different levels of roof are subject to the 150' rule.
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That's right, but the FD Marshal doesn't say clearly where they need the 4 feet and 8 feet. I assumed they were just making the issues and delaying the projects.
Here are the details Pathway and walkway details.

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ggunn said:
It's a judgement call if those arrays that are on different levels of roof are subject to the 150' rule.
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I can see what you're saying.

This area of fire code has always struck me as poorly written in that it seems to assume that all commercial roof planes are more than 150ft in some direction. Whereas very few actually are.
 
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