NFPA 13 storage

[sprinkle2013]

I have a 13r system design with a group of small 13 residential storage closets in the middle of the building. How to I calculate these closets? These storage closets do not have rated walls separating them and no self closing hinges and have a ceiling height of 9'-0". Do I have to calculate them all together as OH .15 or can I reduce the number of closets to calculate?

 

[stookeyfpe]

Are you sure about the lack of fire-resistive separation? Given that this is a R-2 under the 2009 IBC, I'm pretty sure one-hour fire-resistive separation is required around the entire storage enclosure.

If not, I've accepted and OH1 density because it should control the fire and upon water flow, should limit the fire spread beyond the compartment of origin assuming no funky goods like hazmats are being stored.

 

[sprinkle2013]

Would they still have 1HR rating if these residential storage closets are less than 100SqFt?

 

[stookeyfpe]

How much less than 100 square feet?

In certain cases, storage closets are not permitted to be constructed without fire-resistive separation when a NFPA 13R system is employed. A NFPA 13R system is a life-safety system versus NFPA 13 which is a life safety & property protection system.

 

[sprinkle2013]

The closets range from 60sqft to40 sqft