sprinklernotes
Sprinkler Requirements for Mechanical Enclosures
You asked the following questions: “Mechanical enclosure. Is a sprinkler head required within a non-combustible concealed space that has an HVAC unit inside of it? The concealed space has an access panel and the space is not intended for occupancy. Is this considered a mechanical enclosure, or would this be considered a non-combustible Concealed Space or both?” In response to your question, we have reviewed NFPA 13, 2016 edition as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is sprinkler protection would not be required within the concealed space. The main concern here is the area considered a concealed space or a mechanical equipment closet. Since there is an access panel, which traditionally requires screws to be removed to open, instead of a side-hinging door, the area is a concealed space. With the area being a concealed space, Section 8.15.1.2.2 can be reviewed to determine if sprinkler protection can be omitted. Section 8.15.1.2.2 states: Concealed spaces of noncombustible and limited-combustible construction with limited access and not permitting occupancy or storage of combustibles shall not require sprinkler protection. The concealed space is built of noncombustible construction and has limited access; thus, sprinkler protection can be omitted.
