Room design method - attic

[rmae]

As a combustible attic space frequently governs the water demand requirements,the cost of water storage and pump capacity can be lessened by having the /architect contractor separate the attic into 30min. rated compartments with self-closing access hatches between compartments which would satisfy the requirements for room design method.

Any thoughts/concerns?

Thanks

R M Arsenault Engineering Inc.

http://www.rmae.ca

 

[chicopee]

I have seen these fire partitions in many apartment complex. The main problem is that these hatches are left open so it may be best to eliminate them.

 

[rmae]

I agree. The hatches are my concern too.

R M Arsenault Engineering Inc.

http://www.rmae.ca

 

[cdafd]

Not a designer or engineer

Does 13 back this design in an attic???

And we are talking commercial not residental ?????

 

[rmae]

This is an assembly occupancy so commercial. The main criteria for use of the room design method is the requirement to calculate the demand of a room that has a fire separation that is equal to the required water demand duration. An attic is a light hazard combustible concealed space. If the attic was occupied, you could divide into 30min fire separated rooms and use the room design method. So I see no reason why if it is unoccupied you couldn't divide it the same way and use the room design method. NFPA 13 doesn't explicitly define what a 'room' is.

R M Arsenault Engineering Inc.

http://www.rmae.ca