NFPA-13 2010

[KLH]

Paragraph 8.17.1.1 in 2010 NFPA-13 requires a local water alarm for systems having more than 20 sprinklers.

The standard does not appear to define "local water alarm" or its location (e.g. on the exterior of the building).

Anyone know why?

Thanks,
Ken

 

[NJ1]

I believe that anything over 20 heads requires alarm annunciation. In my opinion being that the case you must install either a hard wired electric bell (110 V) alarm device or install a water motor gong. They both work as local alarm annunciation devices.

 

[pipesnpumps]

You'd have to ask an NFPA 13 committee member, but my guess is it is assumed that the type or location of the alarm is not critical.. As long as it sounds when the water flows I would interpret that the code is met.

Ideally it should be located outside so the fire department can find the riser.

Interpretive language from the handbook (somewhat relevant to your question):
"Paragraph 8.17.1.1 requires an audible waterflow alarm on the premises for all systems that have more than 20 sprinklers. The systems are not required to have supplemental alarm systems. The standard does require alarm supervision of valves controlling sprinkler systems
with non-fire protection connections and recommends, but does not require, such supervision in other instances.
The sprinkler alarms are waterflow alarms and are not building evacuation alarms. However, in some applications, building owners can choose to react to waterflow alarms as
evacuation alarms. The purpose for which the alarm is intended should be considered in the required waterflow overall design of both actuating mechanisms and audible alarm devices."

 

[stookeyfpe]

A local alarm is just as it states: its local to the building.

If you are in the US and under the jurisdiction of the International Fire Code, any sprinkler system that is not a local application sprinkler system (<19 sprinklers supplied from a domestic water supply) requires electric supervision by a listed supervising station complying with NFPA 72.

 

[spkreng]

stookeyfpe, I didn't know this, just what I get from skimming codes..does that include 13R and 13D systems?

spkreng, CET

 

[stookeyfpe]

No, residential sprinklers in one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes are excluded from the monitoring requirements. NFPA 13R systems would be required to be monitored by the IFC.