water hazards and energized equipment

[JJWalecka]

It is my understanding that it is code compliant for a sprinkler system to spray water on to electrical equipment in the event of a fire.

Yet a drip pan is required in dedicated space above equipment for nuisance dripping? wouldn?t both pose a hazard

Feedback is welcome

JJ

 

[nakulak]

I believe that the requirement, or desire for fire supression using water represents the code minimum. I'm sure if fire dept.s across the country could enforce a requirement for a better type of fire supression than water around electrical gear that they would be eager to do so.

 

[charlie]

A dripping water source above an electrical panelboard or switchboard will deteriorate the equipment but will probably not short anything out . . . at least not right away. In the case of a fire, the sprinkler will probably not short anything out since water is not that conductive but it will extinguish the fire unless it is electrical to start with. In other words, a sprinkler system in the electrical equipment area is normally just fine.

 

[JJWalecka]

Thanks nakulak and charlie for your time


JJ