We have a project where the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is requiring zone control valves and dedicated pipe from the standpipe to any IT rooms and sprinklers in elevator shafts.
As a result, we have three zone controls for each floor: (1) the floor sprinkler system, (2) IT rooms, and (3) any sprinklers in elevator shafts. Is there a code or standard basis for this requirement, or would it be specific to the AHJ? We're doing the work either way for this project since the AHJ is requiring it, but I would like to know for future projects. Thanks in advance. Sent in anonymously for discussion. Discuss This | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
7 Comments
Brian Gerdwagen
2/5/2021 09:16:53 am
There is a standard requirement for a control valve on the sprinkler at the top of the elevator shaft, but no the bottom. Certainly not IT rooms.
Reply
DS
2/5/2021 09:24:06 am
NFPA 13 2016 EDITION, 8.15.5.1
Reply
Peter
2/5/2021 09:37:01 am
The requirement in chapter 22 comes directly from NFPA 75 "Standard for the Fire Protection of Information Technology Equipment"
Kelsey
2/5/2021 11:04:40 am
NFPA 75 that is described in 22.14 references "high risk" ITE areas. If it is not deemed a high risk by the client, we don't add the extra valve - particularly for small closet scenarios.
Glenn Berger
2/5/2021 09:34:43 am
Previous comments addressed the elevator. NFPA 75 provides the requirements for the sprinkler system for Information Technology Equipment Rooms/Spaces (formerly called Data Centers).
Reply
CJ Bonczyk
2/5/2021 09:57:55 am
NFPA 13 Chapter 22 requires that IT/server areas to be zoned separately. This coincides with NFPA 75 9.1.3.4. I have seen instances if it is a single sprinkler, some AHJ's will be a bit lenient and allow the use of a single tampered butterball valve. However verify with the AHJ a means of testing is not required.
Reply
James Richardson
2/5/2021 10:24:09 am
Ask the AHJ for the code section that requires it. If he can't cite it, he can't write it or require it.
Reply
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