Height for Sprinkler in Garage with Slab Band?

7/23/2021

I am designing a sprinkler system for an underground parking garage (Ordinary Hazard, Group I) with NFPA 13 (2013 Edition). The concrete ceiling has slab bands that drop 12-inches (300mm) down from the underside of the ceiling.

I am using extended coverage uprights on a dry system.

Can I use Section 8.8.4.1.2 (1) to show sprinklers 1- to 6-inches below the slab band, which would make them 13- to 18-inches below the underside of the ceiling?

This would make them less than 22-inches below the ceiling.

I'm asking because I don't know if a slab band counts as a "structural member" as far as this is concerned.

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6 Comments

Dan Wilder

7/23/2021 07:42:44 am

These are typically found around the columns only. What is the spacing (and to some extent the width)?

Yes, this would be considered "structural" by your explanation.

If the construction and spacing of these align with the definitions of 3.7.1 (and appendix explanations) and as long as the sprinkler is listed for that application, have at it.

It looks to comply with A3.7.1 (1) or (4), again, depending on spacing.

Brian Cockburn

7/23/2021 09:16:32 am

Thanks Dan.

The slab bands are 8 feet wide. The spacing between them varies from about 16 to 30 feet (on center).

Dan Wilder

7/25/2021 02:23:39 pm

You're going to be unobstructed and will need to comply with the 1"-12" deflector distance. The ceiling/deck elevation changes will allow you to use 8.6.4.1.1.3(B) as to spacing when these occur which may help (depending on the direction of your branch lines) to limit the need for sprigs.

The last dry system I did in a garage I ran the BL's parallel with these, it seemed to follow the roof/floor drain piping as well and avoided the cross over elevation fight.

John G

7/23/2021 08:34:18 am

I think you have to look at the definition and the size of the panel that the 12 inch obstructions make. ( greater than 309 sq ft ?) If the definition lends itself to smooth ceiling, then the deflector would be 12 inches.
In a parking garage, everyone wants high and tight. 22 inch deflectors with 12 inch projections would be a hard sell.

Casey Milhorn

7/23/2021 08:45:54 am

Dan pretty much covered it. The only thing I would add is make sure that the job is NOT an FM Global job, or FM only specs. Extended coverage are not FM approved for use on a dry system, at least last time I checked. Great question.

Garage and Shops Spokane link

5/21/2023 10:55:24 pm

When installing a sprinkler system in a garage with a slab band, it is important to consider the height at which the sprinklers should be positioned.

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Height for Sprinkler in Garage with Slab Band?

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