Sprinklers in electrical rooms

[sbutler]

I have dedicated electrical rooms protected by 1-hour fire-rated and 2-hour walls. Since the entire room is not protected by 2-hour walls, sprinklers are required per NFPA-13-72. The AHJ has indicated these sprinkler heads need a shield even though they are not directly mounted over any gear.

Thanks for any and all replies.

 

[pete m.]

110.26(F)(1)(c) specifically permits sprinkler protection. I'm not sure (barring any local ammendments) where this requirement is found.

Pete

 

[augie47]

We went thru a long struggle with this with engineers, engineers, consulants all arguing. The end call locallly was that the sprinkler piping required drip pans. if over the gear. The head, if located other than directly above the gear was no problem.

 

[bobserrano]

If the inspector asked for the drip pans you should request a code section to justify or clarification by the building official. If the building official asks for the drip pans PUT THEM IN.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

I would doubt that NFPA 13 would ever permit a shield for the sprinkler heads. Shielding them would defeat the purpose of installing them. If the room is hot enough to set off the heads the electrical equipment probably already junk and the water from the heads should contain the fire and heat to that room and save the building.