NFPA 13D and Licensing?

[Nova5]

Is a license required in install NFPA 13D systems? I have recently learned that July 2011 the county I build in will adopt the IRC/IBC requirement for sprinkler systems. my code books constantly mentioned NFPA 13D. Which is its own book. Before I spend money to acquire the book, is a license required? will just a plumbing license work? 13D systems from what little i can successfully find on the web seem to not require pumps or similar(that 13R does) and can be piped off the main water supply of the home. Neither the IRC or IBC code books have much on the spacing and other such requirements.

 

[Nova5]

I guess I should have mentioned I build Single-Family detached housing in South Carolina.

 

[MGXFP]

Sometimes plumbers can install NFPA 13D systems. You need to check with your local licensing division.

Where I live I believe it is permitted, but it shouldn't be assumed that is true everywhere.

 

[FFP1]

Contact the state fire marshal's office and ask them about the pertinent state law in this matter!

 

[Nova5]

I've already got a call into the local building inspections division head. But i'll add the fire marshals office to the list. Thanks for the idea.

 

[cdafd]

Nova5

sounds like you need a few classes in 13d systems

Yes they do need a certqin amount of pressure to drive them.

there are basicaly two systems out there

1. totaly seperate pipe to feed the spinkler heads

http://www.homefiresprinkler.org/Build/BuildNFPA13D.html

and

2. one that is incorporated in the house plumbing system

http://www.uponor-usa.com/Header/Systems/Fire/Builder/ICC-Vote.aspx

http://www.residentialfiresprinkler...ors-an-introduction-to-the-nfpa-13d-standard/

http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Contractors/Fire Protection Sprinkler/Fire Sprinkler Memo 2006.pdf

http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Contractors/PDF files/FSNEWLAW2006.pdf

 

[Nova5]

That is why I am wondering about the licensing issue. if none or just a plumbing is needed, i will get the NFPA book and read up. have a year plus to become well versed in the installation and requirements.

 

[SprinklerDesigner2]

The biggest hurtle might come from a direction you least expect it to come from.

Being a licensed plumber I am sure you won't have a problem purchasing all manner of insurance except for completed operations specifically extending covering to fire sprinklers. Many insurance companies require a NICET III or IV to be employed full time as RME's as a requirement for issuance. Obtaining this completed operations insurance has stopped many a plumbing contractor from getting into the one and two family dwelling fire sprinkler market.

I hold a South Carolina license but but looking at South Carolina's licensing requirements

http://www.scstatehouse.gov/archives/CodeofLaws2004/t23c045.htm

13D is specifically referenced in the acceptable standards. Why? If the state isn't claiming one and two family dwellings why would they reference 13D as a standard?

 

[TravisMack]

I applaud you for seeking information on this so that you can get it right and not just jumping blindly into the market. I would check the licensing laws in your state and local area as others have already suggested. I also believe that the American Fire Sprinkler Association has a course on design of these systems

http://www.firesprinkler.org/training/schools/resdesignschool.html

As you are aware, there is more to a fire sprinkler system than just sticking a head in a room and getting water to it.

Please feel free to ask questions so you get things done right and stay in front of the market.

Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com

 

[NJ1]

I am not sure if plumbers can install that kind of work. I believe that it is still falls under fire protection so you should contact the local fire marshall. I know that here in NJ you must be a license fire sprinkler contractor regardless the size and type of system.
How is the business doing over there. I was thinking of moving to either Georgia or South Carolina

 

[FFP1]

Insurance coverage and liability will prove to be very serious issues for plumbers who decide to install fire protection systems in dwellings (NFPA 13D).......ANY incident which occurs (even years after installation) could result in a lawsuit. Incidents could include fire, water damage, or even an inspector who determines the system was not installed in accordance with the applicable standards.

My best advice would be to tread carefully and make sure you have thoroughly investigated this path prior to taking action.

 

[stookeyfpe]

If the design is based on the prescriptive requirements in the 2009 International Residential Code, Section P2904 does not require any hydraulic calculations. As an unlicensed person, I could install the system myself in a new dwelling and be in compliance with the IRC. IRC Section P2904 is a pipe schedule sprinkler system for one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes.

I don't want to get into the middle of state licensing requirements because they vary so much. All I'm presenting is the IRC offers an option to NFPA 13D that is code compliant.

 

[NJ1]

That is very interesting stookeyfpe. I am going to read the IRC especifically that section.
My comment was just addressng the NJ licensing issue. I believe that Georgia has a more strict license requirement.
I just believe that anything involving a specialty trade such as fire protection must be done by license personnel.