Exposed CPVC piping in Light Hazard Occupancy

[FFP1]

I find "exposed" CPVC sprinkler piping (typically Blazemaster) in light hazard occupancies on a fairly regular basis. When I say "exposed", I mean it is in the fire area rather than behind a fire rated wall/ceiling.

I realize NFPA 13 does not specifically address this problem, but NFPA 13 does state that all CPVC piping "shall be permitted when installed in accordance with their listing limitations, including installation instructions".

Every Installation Manual I have ever read for CPVC piping indicates the CPVC piping shall be located behind or above fire rated walls or ceilings (some say minimum 15 minute fire rating and some say minimum 1 hour fire rating).

Some sprinkler contractors and fire department inspectors have told me they are fairly certain the "Approved" CPVC piping can be installed in the fire area "unexposed" as long as the occupancy is light hazard.

Is anyone on this blog familiar with this issue AND does anyone have any documentation which states CPVC piping can be installed in an "exposed" arrangement in the area which is protected by the sprinkler system?

 

[colfire]

Look at this link to Viking Plastics Installation and Design Manual, Specifically pages 9 and 10.

http://www.vikinggroupinc.com/literature/TDR-4122.pdf

 

[TravisMack]

http://tyco-fire.com/TD_TFP/TFP/IH_1900_06_2008.pdf

I think you may be looking at some outdated manuals. CPVC has been listed to be installed "exposed" for a few years now. You just have to meet all of the criteria for exposed installation (deflector distances, head spacing, centerline - ceiling of piping, etc)

Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC

 

[cdafd]

now that is interesting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[cdafd]

have not read all pages but is it only for residental??? or any light hazard,

also looks like you would need the install manual for that job to see if the pipe proposed has the listing for exposed!!!!!