Sprinklers Req'd for Telescoping-Wood Bleacher?

11/24/2022

We have a project with telescoping wooden bleachers.

Are sprinklers required to be installed underneath these?

If so, how is that done properly?

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5 Comments

Todd E Wyatt

11/24/2022 08:39:30 am

It depends on the adopted (scoping) Code (e.g. IBC, IFC, NFPA 101 …) and the Occupancy Classification(s) (OC) of the building (or portion of the building) with the bleachers.

First, start with the applicable Code (e.g. 2021 IBC) to determine IF an automatic sprinkler system (ASPS) is required per the OC. Let’s assume the bleachers are in a Group A-5 Assembly OC :

303.6 Assembly Group A-5
Group A-5 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for participation in or viewing outdoor activities including, but not limited to:
Amusement park structures
Bleachers
Grandstands
Stadiums

“Bleachers” is italicized so that means there’s a Code definition :

BLEACHERS. Tiered seating supported on a dedicated structural system and two or more rows high and is not a building element (see "Grandstand").
GRANDSTAND. Tiered seating supported on a dedicated structural system and two or more rows high and is not a building element (see "Bleachers").

If your condition meets these definitions, next we review “2021 IBC Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems” and find the following regarding “Group A-5” and “bleachers” :

Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Section 903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems
903.2 Where Required

903.2.1.5 Group A-5
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for all enclosed Group A-5 accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet (93 m2).
903.2.1.5.1 Spaces Under Grandstands or Bleachers
Enclosed spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 where either of the following exist:
1. The enclosed area is 1,000 square feet (93 m2) or less and is not constructed in accordance with Section 1030.1.1.1.
2. The enclosed area exceeds 1,000 square feet (93 m2).

If your condition meets these parameters, then an ASPS is required under the “bleachers” … if not, then an ASPS is not required.

“2019 NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems” (the referenced Standard by this scoping Code) does not include references to “Bleachers” or “Grandstands” but it does reference “movable racks” which may offer prescriptive requirements for this “similar” condition.

Delbert B Smith Jr. link

11/28/2022 04:36:04 pm

Todd,
Thank you for the response. I went down this same line of reasoning. where I'm getting hung up is these are folding bleachers inside a gym in a high school. The building is an E use group, but the gymnasium would be A-3. However, the code states that assembly spaces associated with a Group E occupancy are not considered a separate occupancy. Regardless, the Group E classification necessitates sprinklers.

I agree that there is a potential for trash to build up under the bleachers. My concern is the practicality of installing sprinklers so they will not be damaged by closing the bleachers. For now, we are proceeding along the lines suggested by Glenn. However, given the very open nature of the bleachers, I wonder if heat will build up in a fast enough manner to activate the sprinklers in a reasonable time

Glenn Berger

11/24/2022 09:00:39 am

Todd gave you the precise code requirement.

My question; With these seating arrangement - Are they still collapsible? Most of these tiered seating get stuck in the open position.

My first question - Would trash end up below these stands?

As far as sprinkler protection, potential (extended coverage) horizontal sidewalls could be used.

Alex

11/24/2022 10:30:54 am

I found the following letter from Louisiana Building Department for further interpretation. I believe Todd captured the complete response though.

Link: http://sfm.dps.louisiana.gov/doc/interpmemos/im_2000-05.pdf

Happy Thanksgiving!
Alex

Delbert B Smith Jr. link

11/28/2022 04:42:31 pm

Thank you for the reference. At least Louisiana is giving more concrete direction.

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Sprinklers Req'd for Telescoping-Wood Bleacher?

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