Fire Hydrant Coverage Limits 2

[msquared48]

Got a simple problem and I cannot find the answer in print from the local jurisdiction to save my life.

The normal spacing between fire hydrants is 300 feet. I believe that the coverage distance limit of any commercial structure is 150 feet before another hydrant needs to be run into the development. I am hoping that the 150 foot value is wrong and that it is actually 300 feet.

What's the standard limiting distance? Thanks for any input. I used to know this, but... well... I'm older.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[msquared48]

Nevermind. It's 150 feet. Gotta run a line in. Darn...

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[CarlB]

I disagree, if based on the IFC. More like 400' of "coverage" from a hydrant, if it's on a fire road. And recent IFC (2007?) extended that distance to 600 feet, for buildings with sprinklers. 150 feet is generally the distance from an approved route to any portion of the building.

For a practical discussion, see

http://www.firehydrant.org/info/design05.html

See local fire department for site-specific determination.

 

[msquared48]

By an "approved route", I assume you mean either an arterial or rural road, not a parking lot with an entrance/exit to such that the engine would traverse. The 150 foot measurement would start at the edge of the arterial at the driveway to the parking lot, for example.

If so, I will still have to add the additional line. Thanks.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[bimr]

The 2003 edition of the International Fire Code (IFC) has these design options (when sprinklers are included):

1. The Fire apparatus access road distance from buildings can be increased beyond the 150 foot maximum.
2. Spacing of fire hydrants can be increased from 400 feet to 600 feet.

You still will need clarification as to which code is currently adopted; what local admnedments have been made, and what the local fire chief wants.

 

[msquared48]

Got it. Thanks guys.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask