Sprinkler Closet Because of Electrical Panel?

3/24/2021

I have a project with 90 apartments, and each unit has a recessed telecom (fiber-optic) panel in a closet that would normally not require a sprinkler. The project is under NFPA 13R.

The Authority Having Jurisdiction is requesting sprinklers in these closets, feeling that these are now combustible after the telecom panel is installed. Is anyone else running into this?

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5 Comments

James Evans

3/24/2021 09:09:18 am

It really does not matter if NFPA 13R requires it or not. The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) has the power to require it.

In many jurisdictions they have modified the code, especially the IFC, and add their own city requirements. If there are no modifications to the code, then you may ask "Where is that in the code?" which in turn may make an enemy of the AHJ.

It is always better to have friend as the AHJ.

3/24/2021 09:21:07 am

Your AHJ is right, the panel is a potential source of ignition. It could be argued that no combustible storage should be allowed inside that "closet" now, since it is technically an electrical/utility room. Ideally, the panel would be relocated to the laundry room.
If not, sprinklering the closet is a defensible compromise.

CJ Bonczyk

3/24/2021 09:46:43 am

You can provide all the documentation to the AHJ that you would like yo not sprinkler them. However if they see the necessity for additional sprinklers then the sprinklers are required. I would denote on the sprinkler shop drawings issued for permit and to the owner that you note on the sprinklers required in telecom closets per AHJ. This let the owner or anyone questioning the reasoning behind it you have a leg to stand on. When an AHJ does not want something per code or wants something additional beyond basic code it becomes a "get out of jail free" card for the sprinkler contractor and owner, as long as it's well documented. They have the final say regardless, and they will be on your side many times as they are someone you want to be in good graces with, but if you wish to battle them, 99% of the time it's a battle you will lose.

Jesse

3/24/2021 10:36:28 am

The AHJ has the ability to require it if they deem it necessary

Casey Milhorn

3/24/2021 10:53:00 am

So two questions here. Are they actually required per code and contract documents and the other is can you get paid for adding them if they are going to be required by AHJ? Work through Meyer's closet cheat sheet to make sure you aren't missing anything per code and then if you feel like you have a leg to stand on, bring the GC and/or owner in to let them make the call on fighting it or not. You are spending their money at that point possibly so they should make the call. If you or your estimator did a good job on writing the proposal and reviewing the contract, you may have a good case to get paid for it. But unlikely that you will win the battle on not providing them, even if you can prove you are right.

Sprinkler Closet Because of Electrical Panel?

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