A New Sprinkler Spec: What Do You Want to See?

4/24/2024

While you're here, we've had great discussions on tackling challenges with bid specifications. I'm very encouraged by the response and I'd like to move things forward with drafting an open, easy-to-digest fire sprinkler specification.

My next question for you is - in an ideal, simple, concise fire sprinkler specification - what do you want to see addressed?

If you're bidding on a job - what is it that you want to see adequately addressed in the specification?

Allowable types of pipe? Types of sprinklers? Use of flexible drops, or other fittings? System types?

What is it that you look for that is can't miss in a quality fire sprinkler specification?

Let me know below and we'll do our best to work it in to a new open fire sprinkler specification.

Steve Leonard link

4/24/2024 12:32:33 pm

1) Recent water flow information is provided.
2) Start point of the work is indicated (flange inside the building, 5’ outside the building, connection to an existing system, etc.)
3) The type and location of the backflow device.
4) The location of the FDC is indicated and has been vetted with the AHJ.
5) Main drain(s) discharge point is indicated and has been coordinated with plumbing design.
6) The intended number and type of sprinkler systems indicated. Specifically, if there are areas which need to be protected with a dry system or preaction system.
7) Any special situations that require specific coverage such as window/glass protection to achieve a desired wall rating desired by the architect.
8) Any specific materials or devices that are required or not allowable.
a. Type of pipe allowed and/or not allowed.
b. The location of pendent is defined, such as center or quarter-point in ceiling tiles.
c. Concealed sprinklers
d. Areas/locations where sprinklers will require factory painting and the number of anticipated custom colors.
e. Identify any areas where ceiling grid is planned but ceilings tiles are open or not going to be installed.

Joe Meyer

4/24/2024 12:36:21 pm

Outstanding - this all seems doable.

Regarding the transition point of scope of work from underground to building - some consultants are hesitant to demark this because the trades already divide the work (means & methods). That said, if it's not indicated on plans, it usually has to be coordinated through a GC to get bid properly.

Do you have a good recommendation on HOW to achieve this through a specification? I understand different regions may approach this differently.

Steve Leonard

4/25/2024 10:38:10 am

I agree it is tricky based upon geography and who has responsibility and/or licensing to perform the work. Ideally, there is and should be separation between the UG work and the overhead work. I would suggest that the specs have the work beginning at a flange inside the building and if there are other factors the GC will need to clarify the scope to eliminate and scope gaps.

Of all the consideration listed previously this one is probably the lowest priority.

Joe Meyer

4/25/2024 10:44:55 am

Thanks Steve! It's one I hadn't thought much about before. Really appreciate the insight!

Ricardo Gonzales Jr

5/1/2024 10:36:45 am

Will this be useable via VisiSpecs (Ms Word) or SpecIntact?

Joe Meyer

5/1/2024 10:47:36 am

Timely comment! Just posted here: https://www.meyerfire.com/blog/your-open-source-fire-sprinkler-spec-part-i

It'll be available in MS Word.

Thanks Ricardo!

Comments are closed.

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A New Sprinkler Spec: What Do You Want to See?

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