Note: It is permissible on a case by case basis to install standard response sprinklers
within smoke zones that are protected by quick response sprinklers, such as in a main
electrical switch gear room. (It is generally not permissible to mix standard and quick
response sprinkler heads within a room). The risk of an accidental discharge due to
physical damage of the sprinkler is lessened with the installation of standard response
sprinklers since they are generally more massive than QR heads. The advantage
gained in response time by installing quick response sprinklers would not be worth the
increased risk to the electrical equipment and personnel due to possible accidental
discharge of a QR sprinkler. (It is relatively easy to break a glass bulb QR head
striking it from the side compared to a standard response glass bulb head).
Note: Sprinklers to be installed in VA facilities are required to be Factory Mutual (FM)
approved per the VA master specification. Factory Mutual test requirements are
different than UL (Underwriters Laboratories Inc.) test requirements. One of the main
examples of this is the test for quick response concealed sprinklers. At the present time,
FM does not list a concealed head as a quick response head.
K. Install standard sprinklers with intermediate temperature rating 93C (200F) or higher in
elevator shafts, elevator pits, and elevator machine rooms. Install sprinklers in elevator shafts
and pits only where required by NFPA 13. (Note: See Section 7 for necessary power
shutdown requirements.)
L. Install institutional QRS sprinklers in psychiatric areas where sheet rock or plaster ceilings are
required by PG-18-14, Room Finishes, Door and Hardware Schedule, and psychiatric areas
with lay-in acoustical tile ceilings where constant supervision by staff is not provided. Consult
facility for additional requirements. Show these areas on drawings.
Note: The issue of where to place institutional sprinkler heads should be taken to the
facility's safety committee/risk management group. Staff supervision of the patients,
other institutional building features, and clinical diagnoses will all play a part in the
requirement or omission of institutional type sprinklers.
M. Do not use flow control (on/off) sprinklers.
N. Where buildings are required to be sub-divided into smoke compartments, segregate sprinklers
into zones which correspond to the smoke compartments. Coordinate sprinkler zones with
smoke (compartments) and fire alarm evacuation zones. Provide a flow switch, isolation
valve, tamper switch, and pressure gage for each zone. Provide separate zones for paint
spray booths, dust collectors, and lint collectors.
O. Pipe drains for each sprinkler riser and test connection to the building exterior to facilitate
testing. Do not terminate at service sinks as their drains are inadequate for test flow. Drain
piping shall be 50 mm (2 in) minimum to accommodate discharge from full flow tests at
maximum system pressure. Design exterior drains to prevent flooding or damage to
landscaping, and to prevent wetting of walkways.
P. Specify non-ferrous piping for all areas within Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) suites.
Q. Determine and identify on drawings location of fire pump, risers, all valves, fire department
connections, drains, and points of connection with underground fire service main.
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