Are Draped Fabrics Obstructed Construction?

11/28/2024

We have an atrium on our project, and due to some changes in the interior design, fabrics (half circles drops) were added as shown in the attached pictures.

This has an impact on my sprinkler coverage and obstruction.

Can those fabrics (450mm depth) be considered as obstructed construction under NFPA 13 Section 11.2.4.1.2 (2) – NFPA 13 (2019 or 2022)?

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5 Comments

Glenn Berger

11/28/2024 08:22:21 am

You do have "obstructed" construction.

The dimensions of 450 mm (18 inches) in depth but with the spacing between the fabric drops appearing to be very narrow (minimum), it would appear that you would not need to place sprinklers in each "pocket."

I believe that the question is basically asking how to position sprinklers with this type of construction.

Chad

11/28/2024 09:30:39 am

The heads are…..above the fabric?!? I don’t see any

Dan Wilder

11/28/2024 11:54:11 am

No, while these are considered obstructions (affecting the discharge pattern of the sprinkler), this does not qualify for Obstructed Construction (the ability of the sprinkler to activate based on the collection of hot gasses). I would not consider draped fabric rigid enough to trap heat.

3.3.41.1 - Obstructed Construction - Panel construction and other construction where beams, trusses, or other members impede heat flow or water distribution in a manner that materially affects the ability of sprinklers to control or suppress a fire.

3.3.133.1 Continuous Obstruction.
An obstruction located at or below the level of sprinkler deflectors that affect the discharge pattern of two or more adjacent sprinklers.

3.3.133.2 Noncontinuous Obstruction.
An obstruction at or below the level of the sprinkler deflector that affects the discharge pattern of a single sprinkler.

Jack G

11/29/2024 08:51:30 am

Looking at that pic, the humps appear to be more than 4 inches.
The combustibility of the fabric (most fabrics are combustible) would determine whether sprinklers are required in every bay.
I m assuming that scenario is for sound proofing/ stopping echos?
So some rfi s should be written.

Ricardo Gonzales Jr

12/2/2024 08:46:34 am

I agree RFIs are in order. In this situation the sprinkler should be below the material as quoted in the sections previous the material as situated would act as a battier for heat to get to the sprinkler and second affect the sprinkler pattern.

I don't know an AHJ who wouldn't want the sprinklers below the material. Nice design of the ceiling to counter all the hard surface.

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Are Draped Fabrics Obstructed Construction?

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