In the past when we have run across this, we have been required to put sprinklers in the concealed space. The only thing you could reference is:
A.8.15.1.2.1 Minor quantities of combustible materials such as but not limited to: cabling, nonmetallic plumbing piping, non-structural wood, etc. can be present in concealed spaces constructed of limited or noncombustible materials but should not typically be viewed as requiring sprinklers (see 8.15.1.1). For example, it is not the intent of this section to require sprinklers, which would not otherwise be required, in the interstitial space of a typical office building solely due to the presence of the usual amount of cabling within the space. The threshold value at which sprinklers become necessary in the concealed space is not defined. I am assuming the ceiling is non-structural wood, but I don't know what defines a 'minor quantity.' I would further assume that a minor quantity is what some lawyer wants it defined as when you are on the witness stand defending why you didn't put sprinklers in the 'obviously' combustible concealed space. (stated in my best Perry Mason - like accent) Merry Christmas to all! Travis -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Jimmy Waite Sent: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 11:53 AM To: AFSA Sprinkler Forum Subject: Drop Wood Ceiling Gentlemen, We have a situation where an engineer in requiring sprinkler protection above a drop wood ceiling. The building is light hazard and noncombustible, and we have obviously provided protection below the ceiling. I can't place a code reference in defense of either side. It would seem that we have adequately protected the wood ceiling by protecting the floor space below it. On the other hand, the back of the wood ceiling would mean there are combustibles in a concealed space. What is everyone's opinion? Thanks, Jimmy Waite Design Engineer Piedmont Fire Protection Systems, LLC 3609 Bastion Lane Raleigh, NC 27604 o: 919.212.2356 f: 919.212.2357 <mailto:[email protected]> [email protected] web: <http://www.piedmontfire.com/> www.piedmontfire.com _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://fireball.firesprinkler.org/mailman/listinfo/sprinklerforum For Technical Assistance, send an email to: [email protected] To Unsubscribe, send an email to:[email protected] (Put the word unsubscribe in the subject field) __________ NOD32 4690 (20091215) Information __________ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://fireball.firesprinkler.org/mailman/listinfo/sprinklerforum For Technical Assistance, send an email to: [email protected] To Unsubscribe, send an email to:[email protected] (Put the word unsubscribe in the subject field)
