Standpipes in buildings

[Ehendrix]

I have a quick question, is there different standpipe requirements for buildings per IFC for commercial buildings versus dorms or hotels? If any type of building is over 30' to the highest story you are required to have a class III standpipe per the requirements of IFC in which you then reference NFPA 14 correct?

Does IFC essentially overrule the old 75' requirements for standpipes that was used back in the days?

Thank you,

Eric Hendrix, SET
NICET Certified
Design Manager

 

[stookeyfpe]

If the IFC is adopted its requirements are applicable at the time an application for a construction permit is received. In the case of a dormitory, if the highest occupied floor is < 75 feet below the lowest level of fire department access, a Class I manual standpipe dry standpipe is allowed. A Class III standpipe is not always required.

 

[cdafd]

Yes to your first question

Depending on which edition of IBC. Is used

This is 2018 IBC

Check starting section 905.3 down

https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/document/IBC2018/chapter-9-fire-protection-and-life-safety-systems

 

[TravisMack]

Eric:

The standpipe requirement does not differentiate by building occupancy (for the most part). So, you need the same thing in an apartment as you do an office building. If the requirement is triggered, then put in the standpipe.

In buildings with a sprinkler system, you can do Class I instead of III. As others have said, if you are NOT a hi-rise, then you can do manual standpipes.

Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com

"Follow" us at

https://www.facebook.com/pages/MFP-Design-LLC/92218417692

 

[PEDARRIN2]

About the manual standpipe - it is a good idea to contact the local fire department and make sure their operations will supply the 100 psig at top of standpipe water pressure through the fire department connection. I would say 95% will allow the manual standpipe, but it always seems the 5% somehow are on my project.

Also, document the conversation. Sometimes the fire chief you talk to retires before your project gets built and the new fire chief wants to do it differently. Had a project where this documentation indicated why we had designed a fire pump installation. Owner wasn't happy that floor space was taken up that didn't need to be, but it was documented we had coordinated it.