Sprinkler Head Location Code

72chevy4x4

does anyone have an idea of the requirements for sprinkler head location and square footage (floor area) in a commercial setting. I'm sure there are many variables, but there is no open flames/cooking in this area. The place in question is moving a wall about 12' in one direction (one partition larger, the other smaller) but some of the sprinkler heads will be in different locations after the wall moves.
thanks.

Bob Kovacs

Depends on the use classification of the building, as well as the type of head- the spacing between heads is probably fine, so it's really a matter of distance from the new wall to the nearest head- what kind of distance do you have now, and what will you end up with?

72chevy4x4

I don't have the answers for the specifics of distance from or to the nearest head on hand and don't even know specifics on the types/flow of the heads. Was hoping to get some general info to pass on to the guy who is making the contacts with the people who do know-I'm really in the dark about sprinkler systems. Is there supposed to be a minimum distance from a wall or does is need to be within so many feet of a wall?

MechanicalDVR

There are heads designed to be next to walls and heads for unrestricted areas. You will need to have some of the heads changed out or moved.

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Lureho

I think it should be covered in this book:

The Design and Layout of Fire Sprinkler Systems, Second Edition
and you can download from this site gigapedia.org
and search for sprinkler.

IF not there then NFPA should have it.

Mud Master

Here is my question...

Why is he not having a fire protection company do it in the first place???

There are just some trades you don't want to attempt without proper knowledge..Electric, Fire, Welding & Gas work.

Only know how to do welding out of that category.

Seriously though, tell the guy to call a Fire Protection company, have them move & drop the heads where they belong, have them fire up & shut down the system as needed, have them pull the permit & have them DO IT RIGHT!!!

The only contact you should be helping him get when it comes to that is a regulated sprinkler company.

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Lureho

I have to say Mud Master is right.

If you are not in that field better don't touch or you can screw the system badly. So better hire someone that is expert in that field.

tmdelisle

Just a little advice and some comments:
I many locations, particularly here in Massachusetts, only licensed FP contractors can work on sprinkler systems, and they themselves should take it up with properly credentialed system designers, I've seen them get it wrong many a time.
As for spacing; typically you first need to understand the occupancy classification and a few other things that I will not go into detail about. The standard code applicable is usually NFPA 13 with any state ammendments and local requirements.
Assuming for your case an Ordinary Hazard classification, kitchen, storage etc. with 'normal' ceiling heights and no high piled or rack storage, strickly speaking without knowing more.
Maximum coverage per sprinkler is 130 sq.ft., this is determined by using the maximum of 2 times the distance off the wall or the distance between sprinklers along the branch line multiplied by the maximum distance between heads of adjacent lines or twice the distance to the wall for heads measured in that direction (all distances measured perpendicular to the walls). Additionally, assuming standard coverage sprinklers, maximum distance between sprinklers is 15 ft and the maximum off of any wall is 7 ft 6 inches.
Typically, you should also review plans/site with knowledge of the systems hydraulics (original design) to determine adequacy of any changes, with more information I could be more exact with the analysis.
"this information is provided as a matter of opinion and must not be construed as instruction or direction for any work/analysis to be performed"
sorry just a little disclaimer