The provisions of this chapter shall specify where fire protection systems are required and shall apply to the design, installation and operation of fire protection systems.
Fire protection systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance with this code and the New York City Fire Code. Any fire protection system for which an exception or reduction to the provisions of this code has been granted shall be considered to be a required system.
Exception: Any fire protection system or portion thereof not required by this code shall be permitted to be installed provided that such system meets the requirements of this code.
Fire protection systems shall be dedicated
to one building only.
Exception:
Upon review and approval by the commissioner and the Fire Department,
multiple buildings may be served by one fire protection system.
No person shall remove or modify any fire protection system installed or maintained under the provisions of this code or the New York City Fire Code without approval by the commissioner.
Threads provided for Fire Department connections to sprinkler systems, standpipes, yard hydrants or any other fire hose connection shall be compatible with the connections used by the Fire Department.
Fire protection systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of this code and the New York City Fire Code. When required by this chapter, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of the department or an approved agency. Tests required by this code, the New York City Fire Code and the standards listed in this code shall be conducted at the expense of the owner or the owner's representative. It shall be unlawful to occupy portions of a structure until the required fire protection systems within that portion of the structure have been tested and approved.
Where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by a central supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be monitored by a central supervising station.
Exceptions:
- A central supervising station is not required for automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
- Limited area sprinkler systems serving no more than 6 sprinkler heads.
Fire alarm systems required by the provisions of Section 907.2 of this code and the New York City Fire Code shall be monitored by a central supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.5.
Exceptions:
- Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
- Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
- Supervisory service is not required for automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
Manual fire alarm, automatic fire-extinguishing and emergency alarm systems in Group H occupancies shall be monitored by an approved supervising station.
Exception: When approved by the Fire Department, on-site monitoring at a constantly attended location shall be permitted provided that notifications to the Fire Department will be equal to those provided by a central supervising station.
Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire areas shall be separated by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, having a fire-resistance rating of not less than that determined in accordance with Section 707.3.10.
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Construction documents shall comply with Chapter 1 of Title 28 of the Administrative Code, Section 107 and other applicable provisions of this code and its referenced standards.
Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs to existing systems shall conform to that required for new systems without requiring the existing system to comply with all of the requirements of this code, except as otherwise required in Sections 901.9.2 through 901.9.6. Additions, alterations or repairs shall not cause an existing installation to become unsafe, hazardous or overloaded.
Minor additions, alterations, renovations and repairs to existing systems shall meet the provisions for new construction, unless such work is done in the same manner and arrangement as was in the existing system, is not hazardous and is approved.
Fire protection systems governed by this chapter shall be provided:
- To the entire building as if the building were hereafter erected, where a change is made in the main use or dominant occupancy of such building.
- Throughout a space, where a change is made in the occupancy group classification or usage of the space.
Fire protection systems shall be provided in enlarged portions of a building and where this chapter would require such systems in new construction for a space or building.
Exception: Section 901.9.3 shall not require sprinklers to be installed in enlarged portions of unsprinklered buildings to be occupied exclusively as one- or two-family dwellings. This exception shall not apply where sprinklers are otherwise required by the provisions of Sections 901.9.2 or 901.9.4.
Fire protection systems shall be provided to buildings and spaces in accordance with the provisions of Sections 901.9.4.1 through 901.9.4.3.
If the value of alterations to the building equals or exceeds 60 percent of the value of the existing building, or, in the case of a building containing 4 or more dwelling units, 50 percent of the value of the existing building, the entire building shall be made to comply with the fire protection requirements of this chapter as if it were hereafter erected.
If the value of alterations of a space is between 30 percent and 60 percent of the value of the existing building, or, in the case of a building containing 4 or more dwelling units, if the value of alterations of a space is between 30 percent and 50 percent of the value of the existing building, those portions of the building being altered shall be made to comply with the fire protection requirements of this chapter.
For buildings containing 4 or more dwelling units, if the value of alterations to an existing space classified in Occupancy Group R-1 or R-2 exceeds 50 percent of the value of the space, such space shall be made to comply with the fire protection requirements of this chapter.
In buildings or spaces not otherwise required to provide fire protection systems in accordance with this chapter, fire protection systems shall be provided for the types of alterations described in Sections 901.9.5.1 through 901.9.5.4.
Smoke and/or carbon monoxide alarms complying with the location, interconnection and power source requirements of this chapter shall be provided throughout a dwelling unit when alteration work results in the removal of existing and/or installation of new interior wall or ceiling finishes permitting the installation of concealed wiring for all the required alarms throughout the dwelling unit.
Where an alteration includes the addition or replacement of an entire exit stair shaft that is a required means of egress, the entire shaft shall be equipped with a standpipe in accordance with Section 905.
Where the alteration involves the addition of stories to a building with an existing standpipe system, and one or more stair shafts are not currently equipped with standpipes, standpipes shall be provided to all stair shafts in accordance with this chapter.
Exception: Additional standpipes are not required where:
- The alteration involves the addition of only one story;
- Existing standpipes in existing stair shafts are extended in accordance with this chapter;
- Standpipe hose connections are provided in compliance with Section 905.4, Item 6; and
- The demand on the standpipe system, including any additional demand, with respect to flow and pressure does not exceed the capacity of the existing approved system.
Where the alteration involves the addition of stories to a building with no existing standpipe system, standpipes shall be provided to all stair shafts in accordance with this chapter.
The determination as to whether seismic requirements apply to an alteration shall be made in accordance with the 1968 Building Code and interpretations by the department relating to such determinations. Any applicable seismic loads and requirements shall be permitted to be determined in accordance with Chapter 16 of this code or the 1968 Building Code and Reference Standard RS 9-6 of such code.
The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
- ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE.
- ALARM SIGNAL.
- ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE.
- ANIMAL SERVICE FACILITY.
- ANNUNCIATOR.
- AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE.
- AUTOMATIC.
- AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.
- AUTOMATIC SMOKE DETECTION SYSTEM.
- AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM.
- AUTOMATIC WATER MIST SYSTEM.
- AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL.
- CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.
- CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM.
- CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR.
- CARBON MONOXIDE-PRODUCING EQUIPMENT.
- CEILING LIMIT.
- CLEAN AGENT.
- COMMERCIAL COOKING SYSTEM.
- COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE.
- CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION.
- DELUGE SPRINKLER SYSTEM.
- DETECTOR, HEAT.
- DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT.
- ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT PROTECTIVE SYSTEM.
- EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEM.
- EMERGENCY VOICE/ALARM COMMUNICATIONS.
- FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL.
- FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT.
- FIRE ALARM SIGNAL.
- FIRE ALARM SYSTEM.
- FIRE AREA.
- FIRE COMMAND CENTER.
- FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC.
- FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM.
- FIRE PUMP.
- Fire pump, automatic standpipe.
Fire pump, foam.
Fire pump, limited service.
Fire pump, special service.
Fire pump, sprinkler booster pump.
Fire pump, water mist system. - FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS.
- FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.
- HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.
- INITIATING DEVICE.
- LIMITED AREA SPRINKLER SYSTEM.
- LISTED.
- MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX.
- MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE.
- MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM.
- *NATURAL GAS ALARM. A single- or multiple-station alarm responsive to natural gas.
*Section 902.1 was amended by Local Law 157 of 2016. - NOTIFICATION ZONE.
- POST-FIRE SMOKE PURGE SYSTEM.
- PRESIGNAL SYSTEM.
- RECORD DRAWINGS.
- SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM.
- SMOKE ALARM.
- SMOKE DETECTOR.
- SMOKEPROOF ENCLOSURE.
- STANDPIPE SYSTEM.
- STANDPIPE, TYPES OF.
- Automatic dry.
Automatic wet.
Manual dry.
Manual wet.
Semiautomatic dry. - STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF.
- Class I system.
Class II system.
Class III system. - SUPERVISING STATION.
- Supervising station, central.
Supervising station, proprietary.
Supervising station, remote. - SUPERVISORY SERVICE.
- SUPERVISORY SIGNAL.
- SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATING DEVICE.
- TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF.
- TROUBLE SIGNAL.
- VALUE (OF ALTERATIONS TO DETERMINE REQUIRED FIRE PROTECTION).
- VALUE (OF EXISTING BUILDING OR SPACE).
- VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE.
- WET CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT.
- WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM.
- ZONE.
- ZONE, NOTIFICATION.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section. Installation of automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with the special inspection requirements of Chapter 17.
Where permitted by the New York City Fire Code, the Fire Department may approve the
installation of alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with this code and the New York City Fire Code in lieu of automatic
sprinkler protection.
*Section BC 903.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 903.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Construction documents for automatic sprinkler systems shall contain plans that include the following data and information:
- The location and size of water supplies and the location, number, and type of sprinkler heads to be used, with approximate location and size of all feed mains, valves and other essential features of the system. For hydraulically calculated systems, hydraulic data substantiating pipe sizes shown shall be submitted and hydraulic reference points and areas must be indicated on the plan. If any other methods are utilized to size the sprinkler system and its components, as allowed by NFPA 13, supporting documentation shall be submitted to the department.
- A diagram showing the proposed sprinkler system in relation to principal construction features of the building, such as its size, walls, columns, and partitions; and such other information as may be necessary for the evaluation of the system.
- The location, number, and type of any electrical or automatic devices or alarms to be used in the system.
- In buildings where a new separate fire sprinkler system is required, the available water pressure at the top and bottom floors of each zone shall be shown on the riser diagram.
- For street pressure-fed systems and fire pumps, a statement from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, giving the minimum water pressure in the main serving the building.
Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.13.
Exceptions:
- Sprinklers shall not be required in electrical equipment rooms where all of the following conditions are met:
- Sprinklers shall not be permitted in elevator machine rooms and elevator machinery spaces.
- Sprinklers shall not be required in rooms and spaces protected by an alternative fire suppression system in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and Section 904 of this code.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and
portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section. For Group A-1, A-2,
A-3 and A-4 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the story
where the fire area containing the Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancy is located, and
throughout all stories from the Group A occupancy to, and including, the levels of exit discharge
serving the Group A occupancy. For Group A-5 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided in the spaces indicated in Section 903.2.1.5. In all Group A occupancies providing
live entertainment, dressing rooms and property rooms used in conjunction with such assembly
occupancy shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall comply with
Section 410.7.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-1 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of the
following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
- The fire area contains a multitheater complex.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where any one of the following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- The aggregate occupant load of all fire areas occupied by Group A, located on any given floor other than the level of exit discharge, is 300 or more.
- The A-2 occupancy is used as a cabaret.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-3 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of the
following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- The aggregate occupant load of all fire areas occupied by Group A, located on any given floor other than the level of exit discharge, is 300 or more.Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-4 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of the
following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- The aggregate occupant load of all fire areas occupied by Group A, located on any given floor other than the level of exit discharge, is 300 or more.
Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all enclosed areas of the structure, including but not limited to the concession concourse, concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory occupancies, in excess of 1,000 square feet (92.9 m2).
Where an occupied roof has an assembly
occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2 and 300 for other Group A
occupancies, all floors between the occupied roof and the level of exit discharge shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
903.3.1.2.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided where
multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access
components and the combined occupant load of theses fire areas is 300 or more.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for Group B occupancies as provided in Sections 903.2.2.1 and 903.2.2.2.
*Section 903.2.2 was amended by Local Law 78 of 2015. This law has an effective date of December 31, 2015.
*Section 903.2.2 was amended by Local Law 78 of 2015. This law has an effective date of December 31, 2015.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all fire areas containing a Group B ambulatory health care facility occupancy. In buildings where ambulatory
care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout the entire floor where such care is provided as well as all floors
below, and all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit
discharge, including the level of exit discharge.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for animal service facilities.
Exceptions:
*Section 903.2.2.2 was added by Local Law 78 of 2015. This law has an effective date of December 31, 2015.- Animal service facilities that provide 24 hour in-person supervision of animals sheltered therein and are equipped with smoke alarms.
- Animal service facilities that were in operation on or before December 31, 2016, and are equipped with an automatic smoke detection system.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:
- Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2) in area.
- Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the level of exit discharge.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any fire area or area below the level of exit discharge where every classroom throughout the building has not fewer than one exterior exit door at ground level without intervening corridors, passageways, interior exit stairways or ramps or exit passageways.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F occupancy where any one of the following conditions exists:
- Where a Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2);
- Where a Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane;
- Where the combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2229.7 m2);
- Where required by Section 280 of the New York State Labor Law for "factory buildings" defined in Section 2 of such law;or.
- Where a Group F-1 occupancy used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232.3 m2).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232.3 m2) in area that generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406, as follows:
- Buildings two or more stories in height, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet (929 m2).
- One-story buildings with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- A Group F-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial trucks or buses where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
- Buildings with a repair garage servicing vehicles parked in the basement.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in the New York City Fire Code and Sections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3 of this code.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a main use or dominant occupancy of Group H.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group H-5 occupancies. The design of the sprinkler system shall be not less than that required by this code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.5.2. Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.
| LOCATION | OCCUPANCY HAZARD CLASSIFICATION |
| Fabrication areas |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
|
| Service corridors |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
|
| Storage rooms without dispensing |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
|
| Storage rooms with dispensing |
Extra Hazard Group 2
|
| Corridors |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
|
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in Group I occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a main use or dominant occupancy of Group I.
Exceptions:
- An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3 shall be allowed in Group I-1 facilities if located in an I-1 occupancy building or a residential building, provided such building is six stories or less in height.
- An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 day care facilities are at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door.
- In buildings where Group I-4 day care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be installed on the entire floor where care is provided, all floors between the level of care and the level of exit discharge, and all floors below the level of exit discharge other than areas classified as an open parking garage.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
- The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2229.7 m2).
- A Group M occupancy used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with the New York City Fire Code in all buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group R fire areas. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a main use or dominant occupancy of Group R.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required in detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses), provided that such structures are not more than three stories above grade plane in height and have separate means of egress.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required in detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses), provided that such structures are not more than three stories above grade plane in height and have separate means of egress.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where any one of the following conditions exists:
- A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2).
- The building is greater than 1,000 square feet (92.9 m2) in area and the main use or dominant occupancy is Group S-1.
- A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
- The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2229.7 m2).
- A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
- A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232.3 m2).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout any Group S-1 occupancy fire area where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet (46.5 m2).
Buildings and structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 500 square feet (46.5 m2) or 7,500 cubic feet (212.3 m3) shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance
with the New York City Fire Code in all buildings or portions thereof in Group S-1
occupancies where the storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings greater than 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2) in area where the main use or dominant occupancy is Group S-2.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks, buses or other commercial
motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout any Group S-2 occupancy fire area greater than 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.4 or where an open or enclosed parking garage is located beneath other occupancy groups.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all
buildings or portions thereof of Group S-2 occupancies in accordance with the New York City
Fire Code.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.13.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every above- or below-grade story of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2) and where not fewer than one of the following types of exterior wall openings is provided:
- Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior stairway complying with Section 1011 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1012. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior walls facing onto a street, public way or frontage space, in the story on at least one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
- Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling not less than 20 square feet (1.86 m2) in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior walls facing onto a street, public way or frontage space, in the story on at least one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). The bottom of the clear opening shall not exceed 36 inches (914.4 mm) measured from the floor.
Such openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Such openings shall be accessible to the Fire Department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.
Where such openings in a story are provided on only one side and the opposite wall of such story is more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) from such openings, the story shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, or openings as specified above shall be provided on not fewer than two sides of the story.
Where any portion of a below-grade story is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, or where
walls, partitions, or other obstructions are installed that restrict the application of water
from hose streams, the below-grade story shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every above-grade story of buildings below a height of 100 feet (30 480 mm), other than the first story or ground floor, on which access is not provided directly from the outdoors by at least one window or readily identifiable access panel within each 50 feet (15 240 mm) or fraction thereof of horizontal length of every wall that fronts on a street or frontage space required pursuant to Section 501.3.1.
Such windows shall be openable from the inside or breakable from both the inside and the outside, and shall have a size when open of at least 24 inches by 36 inches (609.6 mm by 914.4 mm). Such panels shall be openable from both the inside and outside and shall have a height when open of 48 inches (1220 mm) and a width of at least 32 inches (812.8 mm). The sill of the window or panel shall not be higher than 36 inches (914.4 mm) above the inside floor. Where not all of the windows are openable or breakable, the windows intended to satisfy the requirements of this section shall be readily identifiable.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every first basement or cellar story below grade of buildings on which access is not provided directly from the outdoors within each 100 feet (30 480 mm) or fraction thereof of horizontal length of every wall that fronts on a street or frontage space required pursuant to Section 501.3.1.
Exceptions:
- One- and two-family dwellings need not provide direct access.
- Any building classified in Occupancy Group R-2 not more than three stories in height and with not more than two dwelling units on any story need not provide direct access when such first basement or cellar story is used for dwelling units or for uses accessory to the residential use in the building.
- Except as provided in Exception 2, above, for Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, only one direct access from the outdoors to the first basement or cellar story consisting of a stair or door shall be required when such story is used for dwelling units or for uses accessory to the residential use in the building.
Such access shall be by stairs, doors, windows or other means that provide an opening 48 inches (1220 mm) high and 32 inches (812.8 mm) wide, the sill of which shall not be higher than 36 inches (914.4 mm) above the inside floor. If an areaway is used to provide below grade access, the minimum horizontal dimension shall be at least one-third the depth of the areaway or 6 feet (1828.8 mm), whichever is less.
Where wall signs are erected to cover doors or windows of existing buildings, access panels shall be provided as necessary to comply with the requirements of Section 903.2.11.
Nothing in Section 903.2.11 shall be construed so as to supersede any applicable provisions of Section 54 of the New York State Multiple Dwelling Law relating to access to cellars or basements in multiple dwellings.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes, in chute access rooms, and in their terminal rooms. Chutes shall have additional sprinkler heads installed at alternate floors and at the lowest intake. Where a rubbish chute extends through a building more than one floor below the lowest intake, or through areas with no openings, such an extension shall have sprinklers installed that are recessed from the drop area of the chute and protected from freezing in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Such sprinklers shall be installed at alternate floors, beginning with the second level below the last intake and ending with the floor above the discharge. All chute sprinklers shall be accessible for servicing and shall not obstruct the vertical path for rubbish or linens.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access, measured to the finished floor.
Exceptions:
- Open parking structures without any other occupancy groups, unless otherwise required.
- Occupancies in Group F-2, unless required by the New York State Department of Labor.
Where required by the New York City Mechanical Code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts conveying hazardous exhaust or flammable or combustible materials.
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
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An automatic sprinkler system shall not be
installed in a commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system. Fire-extinguishing
systems shall be installed in commercial cooking systems in accordance with this code and the New York City Fire Code.
*Section BC 903.2.11.9 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 903.2.11.9 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
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In addition to the requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.10 also require the installation of a suppression system for certain buildings and areas. Suppression systems shall also be required as provided for in other sections of this code, the New York City Fuel Gas Code, and the New York City Mechanical Code.
|
Code section
|
|
| Aerosol warehouses |
FC 2804.4.1
|
|
Aircraft hangers
|
|
|
Airport traffic control towers
|
BC 412.3.6
|
| Atriums |
BC 404.3
|
| Automated storage; buildings with |
FC 2309.2
|
|
Children's play structures
|
BC 424.3
|
| Chutes; refuse and laundry |
BC 713.13
|
| Chute vestibules |
BC Appendix Q 22.15.2.2.1
|
| Cold storage buildings: ice plants, food plants and food processing rooms with foam insulation up to 10 inches in thickness |
BC 2603.3
|
| Combustible fibers; storage at waterfront structures |
FC 2906.6
|
| Combustible fibers, loose; storage of more than 1,000 sq ft of |
FC 2904.5
|
| Commercial cooking systems |
BC 904.12
FC 904.11
|
| Commercial cooking systems with solid fuel storage |
FC 904.11.7
|
| Commercial cooking system with Type I hood |
BC 904.2.1
MC 509.1
|
| Covered mall and open mall buildings |
BC 402.5
|
| Dead end public streets; buildings on |
FC 503.8.1
|
| Dip tank rooms |
FC 1505.1
|
| Dip tanks |
FC 1505.6.1
|
| Dry cleaning machines |
FC 1208.3
|
| Dry cleaning plants |
FC 1208.2
|
| Drying rooms |
BC 417.4
|
| Elevator lobbies |
BC 3006.1.1
|
| Exhausted enclosures |
FC 2703.8.5.3
|
| Extra-high-rack combustible storage; buildings with |
FC 2308.5.1
|
| Flammable and combustible liquid in Group H-2 or H-3 areas |
FC 3405.3.7.3
|
| Flammable and combustible liquid storage rooms |
FC 3404.3.7.5.1
|
| Flammable and combustible liquid storage warehouses |
FC 3404.3.8.4
|
| Flammable finishes |
BC 416.5
|
| Fuel-oil tanks and fuel-oil burning equipment; rooms containing |
MC 1305.13.3
|
| Furnaces: Class A and B |
FC 2106.1
|
| Furnaces: Class C and D |
FC 2106.2
|
| Gas rooms |
FC 2703.8.4
|
| Glazing in smoke partition |
BC 710.2
|
| Group H-2 |
BC 415.9.1.3
|
| Group H-5, including but not limited to: workstations, gas cabinet, exhausted enclosures, pass-throughs in exit access corridors and exhaust ducts |
BC 415.11
|
| Group I-2 |
BC 407.6
|
| Hardening and tempering tanks |
FC 1505.8.4
|
| Hazardous exhaust system ducts |
MC 510.8
|
| Hazardous materials; indoor handling or use of |
FC 2705.1.8
|
| Hazardous materials; indoor storage of |
FC 2704.5
|
| Hazardous Production Material ("HPM") corridors |
FC 1803.10.3
|
| Hazardous Production Material ("HPM") exhaust ducts |
FC 1803.10.4
|
| Hazardous Production Material ("HPM") facilities |
FC 1803.10
|
| Hazardous Production Material ("HPM") gas cabinets |
FC 1803.10.2
|
| Hazardous Production Material ("HPM") work station exhaust |
FC 1803.10.1.1
|
| High Pressure Gas Installations; buildings with |
FGC G.2.3
|
| Highly toxic and toxic compressed gases; exhausted enclosures for |
FC 3704.1.3
|
| Highly toxic and toxic compressed gases; gas cabinets containing |
FC 3704.1.2
|
| Highly toxic and toxic compressed gases; gas rooms utilizing |
FC 3704.2.2.6
|
| Highly toxic and toxic compressed gases; outdoor storage of |
FC 3704.3.3
|
| High-rise buildings |
BC 403.3
|
| Incidental uses |
BC 509.4.2
|
| Equipment platforms |
BC 505.3.2
|
| Kiosks in covered mall buildings |
BC 402.6.2
|
|
Kiosks, displays, booths, or concession stands; covered
|
FC 314.5.1
|
| Laboratory units; non-production |
BC 427.6.1
|
| Liquefied petroleum gas ("LPG") within buildings accessible to the public; storage of |
FC 3809.9
|
| Liquids, Class II and III, below grade storage of |
FC 3404.3.5.1
|
| Liquids, Class II and III, below grade storage of, accessory to retail |
BC 414.2.5.1
|
| Medical gas; storage of |
FC 3006.2.1
|
| Organic coatings; manufacturing of |
BC 418.1
|
| Oxidizer, solid and liquid; storage areas |
FC 4004.1.4
|
| Plastic light diffusing system |
BC 2606.7.4
|
| Pyroxylin plastic; areas with |
FC 4204.1.1
|
| Pyroxylin plastic; storage and manufacturing |
FC 4204.2
|
| Pyroxylin plastic; storage vaults |
FC 4204.1.3
|
| Rack storage |
FC 2308.2
|
| Radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment; uses and occupancies involving |
BC 428.3.4
|
| Resin application areas |
FC 1511.3
|
| Silane gas; exhausted enclosures or gas cabinets for |
FC 4106.2.2
|
| Small arms ammunition and primers, black powder or smokeless propellant; storage of |
FC 3306.7
|
| Solid-piled and shelf storage |
FC 2307.2
|
| Smoke-protected assembly seating |
BC 1029.6.2.3
|
| Special amusement buildings |
BC 411.4
|
| Spray booths and rooms |
FC 1504.6
|
| Spray booths involving the use of organic peroxide coatings |
FC 1509.6
|
| Spray finishing in Group A, E, I or R |
FC 1504.1
|
| Stages |
BC 410.7
|
| Sterilization systems; rooms with |
FC 3506.3.2
|
| Storage |
FC Table 2306.2
FC 2306.4
|
| Substandard width public streets; buildings on |
FC 503.8.2
|
| Textile ceiling finish |
BC 803
|
| Textile wall coverings |
BC 803
|
| Underground buildings and spaces |
BC 405.3
|
| Unlimited area buildings |
BC 507
|
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all steel-plated or similarly reinforced or secured vault-like occupancies regardless of area.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all areas used for the storage and sorting of refuse and recyclables.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in spaces in which two or more clothes drying machines are installed. Sprinkler heads shall be spaced to cover the areas 5 feet (1524 mm) on all sides of the drying machines.
Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and Chapter 33 of this code.
903.2.13 Type IV Construction With Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) or Structural Composite Lumber (SCL)
Automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with NFPA 13 shall be required
throughout buildings utilizing Type IV construction with CLT or SCL as follows:
- In all occupancies where the building is more than three stories above grade plane.
- In Group B occupancies, where a floor exceeds 28,500 square feet (2647.7 m2).
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8.
Sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1 and 903.2 of this code.
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When approved by the Fire Department, automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following:
*Section BC 903.3.1.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
- In rooms or areas protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion, and an alternative automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with this code and the New York City Fire Code. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is of fire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment. This exemption shall not apply to a generator or transformer room unless, in addition to the above requirements, such room is separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours, and the generator in such room shall not use high pressure flammable gas in excess of 15 psig (103.4 kPa gauge).
- Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms and control spaces associated with occupant evacuation elevators designed in accordance with Section 3008.
*Section BC 903.3.1.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
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Where allowed in buildings of Group R, up to and including six stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R.
The number of stories of Group R occupancies constructed in accordance with Sections 510.2 and 510.4 shall be measured from the horizontal assembly creating separate buildings.
The number of stories of Group R occupancies constructed in accordance with Sections 510.2 and 510.4 shall be measured from the horizontal assembly creating separate buildings.
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Sprinkler protection shall be provided for exterior balconies, decks and ground-floor patios of dwelling units where the building is of Type V construction and automatic sprinkler protection is required for the Group R occupancy. Side wall sprinklers that are used to protect such areas shall be permitted to be located such that their deflectors are within 1 inch (25.4 mm) to 6 inches (152.4 mm) below the structural members, and a maximum distance of 14 inches (355.6 mm) below the deck of the exterior balconies and decks that are constructed of open wood joist construction.
Sprinkler protection and freeze protection shall be
provided in open-ended corridors and associated exterior stairways and ramps as specified
in Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, up to and including six stories in height, shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D.
Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code, quick-response or residential automatic sprinklers shall be installed in all of the following areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1 and their listings:
- Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing care recipient sleeping units in Group I-2 in accordance with this code.
- Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing treatment rooms in ambulatory care facilities.
- Dwelling units and sleeping units in Group I-1 and R occupancies.
- Light-hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA 13.
Automatic sprinklers shall be installed with due regard to obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands, or equipment that exceeds 4 feet (1220 mm) in width. Not less than a 3-foot (914.4 mm) clearance shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible fibers.
*Section BC 903.3.3 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Exception: Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods protected with a fire-extinguishing system in accordance with this code and the New York City Fire Code.
*Section BC 903.3.3 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
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Automatic sprinkler systems shall be automatically actuated unless specifically provided for in this code.
Water supplies for automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section and the standards referenced in Section 903.3.1. The potable water supply shall be protected against back flow in accordance with the requirements of this section, the New York City Plumbing Code, and Rules of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.
Where the domestic service provides the water supply for the automatic sprinkler system, the supply shall be in accordance with NFPA 13, 13R and 13D.
A single combination water supply shall be permitted in accordance with NFPA 13R.
A secondary on-site water supply for high-rise
buildings shall be provided in accordance with Section 403.3.3.
Fire hose threads and fittings used in connection with automatic sprinkler systems shall be approved and compatible with Fire Department hose threads.
The location of Fire Department connections for
automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 905 and 912.
Limited area sprinkler systems shall be in accordance
with the standards listed in Section 903.3.1 except as provided in Sections 903.3.8.1 through
903.3.8.5.
Limited area sprinkler systems shall not exceed six
sprinklers in any single fire area.
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Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a
building with an automatic wet standpipe system, sprinklers shall be supplied by the standpipe
system. Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a building without an automatic
wet standpipe system, water shall be permitted to be supplied by the plumbing system
provided that the plumbing system is capable of simultaneously supplying domestic and
sprinkler demands.
Control valves shall not be installed between the water supply and
sprinklers unless the valves are of an approved indicating type that are supervised or secured
in the open position.
Valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by the fire alarm system where such fire alarm system is required by Section 907.
Exceptions:
- Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
- Limited area sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8.
- Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
- Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
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Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to a central supervising station or when approved by the Fire Department, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
Exceptions:
- Underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the city or a public utility are not required to be monitored.
- Backflow prevention device test valves, located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping, shall be locked in the open position. In occupancies required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.
An approved audible device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location or in a location approved by the Fire Department, except in buildings equipped with a fire alarm system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Approved supervised indicating control valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings.
Sprinkler systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Dedicated sprinkler piping shall
be painted and such painting certified in accordance with Sections 903.6.1 through 903.6.5 of this
code. In addition to painting, sprinkler piping may also be identified by lettered legend in accordance
with ANSI A13.1. Where the piping is required to be listed and labeled, such painting shall not
obscure such labeling.
Exceptions:
- Attachments, gauges, valves and operable parts of sprinkler systems other than valve handles.
- Horizontal branch lines.
- Where different color coding may be required by Section 3406 of the New York City Fire Code for facilities storing, handling, and using flammable and combustible liquids in connection with special operations.
Cross connections and risers in new buildings, including buildings constructed pursuant to Section 28-101.4.2 of the Administrative Code, shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving dedicated sprinklers shall be painted green prior to the hydrostatic pressure test regardless of whether they will be enclosed at a later point in time.
Exception: Where a standpipe system is used as a combination standpipe and sprinkler system, the sprinkler risers and cross connections that are also used for the standpipe system shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving such combination system shall be painted yellow.
Cross connections and risers for independent (stand-alone) existing sprinkler systems that are exposed during alterations, including alterations pursuant to Section 28-101.4.2 of the Administrative Code, shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving such existing sprinkler systems shall be painted green. Where the alteration requires a hydrostatic pressure test such painting shall be completed prior to such test.
Exception: Where a standpipe system is used as a combination standpipe and sprinkler system, the sprinkler risers and cross connections that are also used for the standpipe system shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving such combination system shall be painted yellow.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all exposed risers and cross connections of completed buildings in existence on March 2, 2010, shall be painted red and all handles of valves serving such sprinkler system shall be painted green.
Exception: Where a standpipe system is used as a combination standpipe and sprinkler system, the sprinkler risers and cross connections that are also used for the standpipe system shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving such combination system shall be painted yellow.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, where construction documents were approved and permits issued for the construction of a new building or alteration of an existing building prior to March 2, 2010, and the work is not signed off by the department prior to such date, all exposed cross connections and risers in any such building shall be painted red prior to the hydrostatic pressure test, including cross connections and risers that will be enclosed at a later point in time, and handles of valves serving such sprinkler system shall be painted green.
Exceptions:
- Where a standpipe system is used as a combination standpipe and sprinkler system, the sprinkler risers and cross connections that are also used for the standpipe system shall be painted red and the handles of valves serving such combination system shall be painted yellow.
- Cross connections and risers enclosed prior to March 2, 2010, need not be painted.
For all buildings where sprinkler and combination sprinkler and standpipe systems are not subject to a special inspection pursuant to Section 1705.2.9 of this code, a licensed master plumber, licensed master fire suppression piping contractor, registered design professional or an individual holding an appropriate certificate of fitness from the Fire Department for the operation and/or maintenance of such system shall certify on forms provided by the department that all required painting has been completed in accordance with Section 903.6. Such certification shall be maintained on the premises and made available for inspection by the department and the Fire Department.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section, the New York City Fire Code, and the applicable referenced standards.
Construction documents for alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be approved by the Fire Department and shall contain plans that include at least the following data and information:
- Commercial kitchen suppression systems:
- Location of all surface, plenum and duct nozzles; surface dimensions and location of all cooking appliances; the location of automatic fuel shutoff and statement as to type (gas or electric); location and distance of the remote control or manual pull station;
- Identification of the grease filters to be used in any kitchen hood; the dimensions of all hoods and all related ducts, including termination of duct at the exterior of the building;
- Identification of the fire suppression piping system; the make and model of the system; the type of extinguishing agent and number and size of agent containers; size, length, and type of all piping that will be used; the number and location of all fusible links or detectors and the temperature setting; any surface, plenum and duct nozzles.
- For extinguishing agent systems, the plan should also include type and concentration of the extinguishing agent, the method of providing power supply to smoke or heat detectors, fire rating of partitions, location of all audible/visible alarms within and outside the location involved and the details of construction of the room to contain the extinguishing agent. If the area is not sprinklered, the following information is required:
- The size and location of the reserve supply, and
- Information as to why it has been determined that water is not effective as an extinguishing agent for the fire hazard in such location.
- The plans must note whether the proposed system is connected to the building's fire alarm system.
Exception: For that portion of a fire suppression piping system within an approved preengineered system, a schematic isometric diagram shall be acceptable in lieu of full plans, provided that the location and method of pressure relief must be indicated with areas and volumes to where said relief is taken.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative
to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the
Fire Department. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be
considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed by other
requirements of this code.
*Section BC 904.2 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 904.2 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood
and duct system required by Chapter 5 of the New
York City Mechanical Code to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an
automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code
and the New York City Fire Code.
*Section BC 904.2.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 904.2.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.
Electrical wiring shall be in accordance with the New York City Electrical Code.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.12.1.
Where more than one hazard could be simultaneously involved in fire due to their proximity, all
hazards shall be protected by a single system designed to protect all hazards that could become
involved.
Exception:
Multiple systems shall be permitted to be installed if they are designed to operate
simultaneously.
Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents and other features necessary for proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.
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Where alarms are required to indicate the operation of automatic fire-extinguishing systems, distinctive audible and visible alarms and warning signs shall be provided to warn of pending agent discharge. Where exposure to automatic-extinguishing agents poses a hazard to persons and a delay is required to ensure the evacuation of occupants before agent discharge, a separate warning signal shall be provided to alert occupants once agent discharge has begun. Audible signals shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
Where a fire alarm system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the provisions of this section and the New York City Fire Code prior to acceptance.
Prior to conducting final acceptance tests, all of the following items shall be inspected:
- Hazard specification for consistency with design hazard.
- Type, location and spacing of automatic- and manual initiating devices.
- Size, placement and position of nozzles or discharge orifices.
- Location and identification of audible and visible alarm devices.
- Identification of devices with proper designations.
- Operating instructions.
Notification appliances, connections to fire alarm systems and connections to central supervising stations shall be tested in accordance with this section and Section 907 to verify proper operation.
The audibility and visibility of notification appliances signaling agent discharge or system operation, where required, shall be verified.
Connections to protected premises and supervising station fire alarm systems shall be tested to verify proper identification and retransmission of alarms from automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Dry-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code. New dry-chemical extinguishing systems are not permitted for the protection of kitchen equipment.
Foam-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Halogenated extinguishing systems shall not be permitted. However, existing systems shall be maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Automatic water mist systems shall be permitted in
applications that are consistent with the applicable listing or approvals and shall comply with Sections
904.11.1 through 904.11.3.
Automatic water mist systems shall be designed
and installed in accordance with Sections 904.11.1.1 through 904.11.1.4.
Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the New York City Fire Code.
Automatic water mist systems shall be automatically actuated.
Connections to a potable water supply shall be
protected against backflow in accordance with the New York City Plumbing Code.
Where a secondary water supply is required for an
automatic sprinkler system, an automatic water mist system shall be provided with an
approved secondary water supply in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Supervision and alarms shall be provided
as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.
Monitoring shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler
systems in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
Alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in
accordance with Section 903.4.2.
Floor control valves shall be provided as required for
automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.3.
Automatic water mist systems shall be tested,
operated and maintained in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
The automatic fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust systems of the type and arrangement protected. Preengineered automatic wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be approved by the Fire Commissioner, tested in accordance with UL 300, and listed and labeled for the intended application. The protected area shall include the area under the hood and over the cooking equipment, the area above or behind the filters and the opening of the hood into the branch duct. Where a preengineered system is installed and the size of the protected area exceeds that allowed for a single preengineered system, additional preengineered systems arranged for simultaneous operation shall be provided. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, its listing and the manufacturer's instructions. Only automatic fire-extinguishing systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the New York City Fire Code:
- Foam water sprinkler system or foam water spray systems.
- Wet-chemical extinguishing systems.
A manual actuation device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the cooking area not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm), from the kitchen exhaust system. The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than 48 inches (1220 mm) or less than 42 inches (1066.8 mm) above the finished floor and shall clearly identify the hazard protected. The manual actuation device shall require a maximum force of 40 pounds (177.9 N) and a maximum movement of 14 inches (355.6 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be required to be equipped with manual actuation means.
The actuation of the fire suppression system shall automatically shut down the fuel or electrical power supply to the cooking equipment. The fuel and electrical supply reset shall be manual.
In Group I-2 occupancies where cooking facilities
are installed in accordance with Section 407.2.6 of this code, the domestic cooking hood provided
over the cooktop or range shall be equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system of a type
recognized for protection of domestic cooking equipment. Preengineered automatic extinguishing
systems shall be tested in accordance with UL 300A and listed and labeled for the intended
application. The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, its listing and the
manufacturer's instructions.
A portable
fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 shall be installed within a 30-foot (9144 mm)
distance of travel from domestic cooking appliances.
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Standpipe systems shall be provided in buildings and structures in accordance with this section. Fire hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall be approved by the Fire Commissioner. Standpipe systems in buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with the New York City Fire Code. Installation of standpipe systems shall comply with the special inspection requirements of Chapter 17 of this code.
Any space or room that contains equipment of such nature that the use of water would be ineffective in fighting a fire therein, or would be otherwise hazardous, shall have a conspicuous sign on each door opening on such space or room stating the nature of the use and the warning: "IN CASE OF FIRE, USE NO WATER."
Any space or room that contains equipment of such nature that the use of water would be ineffective in fighting a fire therein, or would be otherwise hazardous, shall have a conspicuous sign on each door opening on such space or room stating the nature of the use and the warning: "IN CASE OF FIRE, USE NO WATER."
Construction documents for standpipe systems shall contain plans that include, at a minimum, the following data and information:
- The locations and sizes of all risers, cross-connections, hose racks, valves, Department connections, sources of water supply, piping, and other essential features of the system;
- A floor plan for each group of floors that have typical riser locations and no special features within such group of floor levels, with the indication in title block of such plan indicating clearly the floors to which the arrangement is applicable;
- A riser diagram showing the essential features of the system, including the risers, cross-connections, valves, Fire Department connections, tanks, pumps, sources of water supply, pipe sizes, capacities, floor heights, zone pressures, and other essential data and features of the system;
- The available water pressure at the top and bottom floors of each zone, and at each floor where the pressure rating of piping, fittings, couplings, and valves are required to change, shall be shown on the riser diagram; and
- For street pressure-fed systems and fire pumps, a statement from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, giving the minimum water pressure in the main serving the building.
Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14.
Standpipe systems shall be installed where required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.9 and in the locations indicated in Sections 905.4, 905.5 and 905.6. Standpipe systems are allowed to be combined with automatic sprinkler systems.
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Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout the following buildings:
- In buildings two stories or more in height with floor area of 10,000 square feet (929 m2) or greater on any story;
- In buildings three stories or more in height with floor area of 7,500 square feet (696.8 m2) or greater on any story;
- In buildings of any area with a floor level having an occupant load of 30 or more that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access; and
- In buildings of any area, constructed in accordance with Section 403, with occupied floors located 75 feet (22 860 mm) or more above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access.
Exceptions: The following exceptions are allowed as an alternative to the requirement of a Class III standpipe system:
- Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 provided that the following additional requirements are met:
- A locked noncombustible storage cabinet shall be provided on the main entrance floor. One additional locked storage cabinet shall be provided on every tenth floor above the main entrance floor, such that no occupant on any floor would have to travel more than five floors to reach a cabinet in a location within 15 feet (4572 mm) of each standpipe riser. Where one standpipe riser is installed in the building, such cabinet shall contain at least one fog nozzle, one 11/2-inch (38.1 mm) spanner wrench, one 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) spanner wrench, one 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) by 11/2 inch (38.1 mm) nonswivel reducing coupling, and 125 feet (38.1 m) of inch (38.1 mm) hose.
- The cabinet shall be kept locked, openable by a Fire Department citywide standard key.
- The cabinet shall be labeled, "FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT ONLY."
- A metal sign stating clearly where the storage cabinet is located shall be placed in each stair enclosure on the main entrance floor and on each floor where the cabinet is located.
- Hose valves are capped with a hose valve cap fastened to the valve with a chain.
- A locked noncombustible storage cabinet shall be provided on the main entrance floor. One additional locked storage cabinet shall be provided on every tenth floor above the main entrance floor, such that no occupant on any floor would have to travel more than five floors to reach a cabinet in a location within 15 feet (4572 mm) of each standpipe riser. Where one standpipe riser is installed in the building, such cabinet shall contain at least one fog nozzle, one 11/2-inch (38.1 mm) spanner wrench, one 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) spanner wrench, one 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) by 11/2 inch (38.1 mm) nonswivel reducing coupling, and 125 feet (38.1 m) of inch (38.1 mm) hose.
- Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking garages where the highest floor is located not more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access.
- Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open parking garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose connections are located as required for Class III standpipes in accordance with Section 905.6.
- Class I standpipes are allowed in below-grade stories equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
- Standpipe outlets may be omitted in portions of first floors or basements that are completely separated from the entrance hall or enclosed stairways leading to the upper floors, provided that portable fire extinguishers are installed, subject to the approval of the Fire Commissioner.
Class I automatic wet standpipes shall be provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons.
Exceptions:
- Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces.
- Class I automatic dry and semiautomatic dry standpipes or manual wet standpipes are allowed in buildings where the highest floor surface used for human occupancy is not more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access. Dry standpipes are permitted only where subject to freezing temperatures.
Covered mall buildings and buildings connected thereto shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet standpipe system, except as permitted by Sections 905.3.3.1 through 905.3.3.3.
Covered-mall buildings where the highest occupied floor level is located not more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of the Fire Department vehicle access shall be permitted to be provided with Class I hose connections connected to the mall sprinkler system in accordance with Section 8.17.5.2 of NFPA 13 regarding hose connections for Fire Department use and under the following conditions:
- Any individual outlet shall be capable of delivering water flow at a rate of 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/m) while concurrently supplying the mall sprinkler demand; and
- Each of the two most hydraulically remote outlets shall be capable of concurrently delivering 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/m) at a pressure of 100 pounds per square inch (689.4 kPa) with no mall sprinkler demand, based on a supply pressure at the system Fire Department connection of not more than 175 pounds per square inch (1206.6 kPa). Adequacy of the water supply available to the Fire Department shall be demonstrated through hydraulic calculations provided by the registered design professional.
Hose connections shall be provided in accordance with Section 905.4 and at each of the following locations:
- Within the mall at the entrance to each exit passageway or exit.
- At each floor-level landing within interior exit stairways opening directly on the mall.
- At exterior public entrances to the mall of a covered mall building.
- At public entrances at the perimeter line of an open mall building.
- At other locations as necessary so that the distance to reach all portions of a tenant space does not exceed 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection.
Except as provided in Sections 905.3.3.1 and 905.3.3.2, the Class I hose connections and Fire Department connections shall be designed in conformance with NFPA 14.
Stages greater than 1,000 square feet in area (92.9 m2), or any assembly occupancy having an occupant load of 1,000 or more with a stage of any size, shall be equipped with a Class III wet standpipe system with a hose station on each side of the stage. Such hose stations shall
comply with Section 905.6 and shall have sufficient hose to provide protection for the entire stage
area from either standpipe location. The exceptions allowed under Section 905.3.1 shall not apply
to these hose stations.
Underground buildings shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipe system.
Buildings with a helistop or heliport that are equipped with a standpipe shall extend the standpipe to the roof level on which the helistop or heliport is located in accordance with the New York City Fire Code. All portions of the helistop and heliport area shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of a 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) outlet on a Class I or III standpipe, in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Standpipes in marine terminals, piers, wharves, marinas and boatyards shall comply with the New York City Fire Code or other requirements of the Fire Department.
Buildings with a rooftop garden,
landscaped roof, green roof, or roof used for any purpose other than weather protection or
maintenance that are equipped with a standpipe system shall extend the standpipe system to the
roof level on which the rooftop garden, landscaped roof, green roof, or roof used for any purpose
other than weather protection or maintenance is located.
Where exit passageways are required in accordance with Chapter 10 of this code, a standpipe system shall be provided in accordance with the New York City Fire Code in all buildings containing high-piled stock or rack storage.
Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
- In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose connections shall be readily accessible and located at the riser on each floor-level landing and on the entrance floor above the standpipe riser control valve. Nonrequired enclosed stairways that do not serve as a means of egress are not required to have hose connections. Stairways without hose connections shall have a sign on the door to the stairway stating, "No standpipe connections in stairway".
- On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a horizontal exit.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal exit are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit. - In every exit passageway at the entrance from the exit passageway to the other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of the building. - In covered mall buildings, in accordance with Section 905.3.3.2.
- Where the roof has a slope of less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), each standpipe shall be provided with a hose connection located either on the roof or at the highest landing of stairways with stair access to the roof. An additional hose connection shall be provided at the top of the most hydraulically remote standpipe for testing purposes. This additional hose connection shall not be required when a roof manifold is installed in accordance with NFPA 14.
- Where the most remote portion of a floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection, additional hose connections shall be provided in approved locations. For the purposes of this section, a penthouse with an occupant load greater than 10 shall be considered a story.
- In any staircase where the change in elevation between floor landings is more than 25 feet (7620 mm), in addition to the hose connections required by Item 1, a hose connection shall be installed at the first intermediate stair landing below the higher floor level.
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Risers and laterals of Class I standpipe systems not located within an enclosed stairway or pressurized enclosure shall be protected by a degree of fire resistance equal to that required for vertical enclosures in the building in which they are located. No standpipe riser shall be placed in any shaft containing a gas or fuel pipeline.
Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, laterals that are not located within an enclosed stairway or pressurized enclosure are not required to be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction.
In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
Class II standpipe hose connections shall be prohibited.
Class III standpipe systems shall have 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) hose connections located as required for Class I standpipes in Section 905.4. At each hose connection, there shall be a hose station. The hose stations shall be equipped with a minimum of 125 feet (38 100 mm) but not more than a maximum of 150 feet (45 720 mm) of 11/2-inch (38.1 mm) fire hose connected to an adjustable fog nozzle. The hose shall be attached to the 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) hose connection by a 21/2-inch (63.5 mm) by 11/2-inch (38.1 mm) non-swivel reducing coupling. The hose shall be mounted on a rack and may be located in a cabinet, in accordance with Section 905.7. A pressure restricting device shall be installed when required by NFPA 14. Such pressure restricting device and reducing coupling shall be installed in such a manner that they are readily removable by the Fire Department.
Risers and laterals of Class III standpipe systems shall be protected as required for Class I systems in accordance with Section 905.4.1.
In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
Cabinets shall be identified in an approved manner by a permanently attached sign with white letters not less than 2 inches (50.8 mm) high and a red background color, indicating the equipment contained therein.
Exceptions:
- Doors not large enough to accommodate a written sign with 2-inch lettering shall be marked with a permanently attached pictogram indicating the equipment contained therein, in addition to corresponding smaller white lettering on a red background adjacent to such pictogram.
- Doors that have either an approved visual identification clear glass panel or a complete glass door panel are not required to be marked.
Cabinets shall be unlocked.
Exceptions:
- Visual identification panels of glass or other approved transparent frangible material that is easily broken and allows access.
- Approved locking arrangements.
- Locking of cabinets shall be permitted in Group I-3.
Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14.
Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal at the central supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the fire alarm system.
Exceptions:
- Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the city or a public utility do not require supervision.
- Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system.
Standpipe systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3303.8.
Dedicated standpipes and the handles of valves serving standpipes shall be painted and such painting certified in accordance with Sections 905.11.1 through 905.11.6. In addition to painting, standpipe piping may also be identified by lettered legend in accordance with ANSI A13.1. Where the piping is required to be listed and labeled such painting shall not obscure such labeling.
Exceptions:
- Attachments, gauges, valves and operable parts of standpipes other than valve handles.
- Where different color coding may be required by Section 3406 of the New York City Fire Code for facilities storing, handling, and using flammable and combustible liquids in connection with special operations.
All portions of a standpipe system and the handles of valves serving the standpipe system in new buildings, including buildings constructed pursuant to Section 28-101.4.2 of the Administrative Code, shall be painted red prior to the hydrostatic pressure test whether or not they are intended to be enclosed at the end of construction.
Existing handles of valves serving existing standpipe systems and existing unpainted standpipe risers that are exposed during alterations, including alterations pursuant to Section 28-101.4.2 of the Administrative Code shall be painted red. Where the alteration requires a hydrostatic pressure test such painting shall be completed prior to such test.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all portions of exposed standpipe systems and handles of valves serving the standpipe system of completed buildings in existence March 2, 2010 shall be painted red.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, where construction documents were approved and permits issued for the construction of a new building or alteration of an existing building prior to March 2, 2010, and the work is not signed off by the department prior to such date, all exposed portions of the standpipe system and handles of valves serving the standpipe system shall be painted red prior to the hydrostatic pressure test, including portions that will be enclosed at a later point in time.
Exception: Portions of the standpipe system enclosed prior to March 2, 2010, need not be painted.
Where a standpipe system that is used as a combination standpipe and sprinkler system is required to be painted pursuant to Section 905.11.1, 905.11.2, 905.11.3 or 905.11.4, the sprinkler risers and cross connections that are also used for the standpipe system shall be painted red, and the handles of valves serving such combination standpipe and sprinkler system shall be painted yellow.
For all buildings where standpipe and combination sprinkler and standpipe systems are not subject to a special inspection pursuant to Section 1705.30 of this code, a licensed master plumber, licensed master fire suppression piping contractor, registered design professional or an individual holding an appropriate certificate of fitness from the Fire Department for the operation and/or maintenance of such system shall certify on forms provided by the department that all required painting has been completed in accordance with Section 905.11. Such certification shall be maintained on the premises and made available for inspection by the department and the Fire Department.
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Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in occupancies and locations as required by the New York City Fire Code.
This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components. Systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and the New York City Electrical Code. Systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with this code and the New York City Fire Code.
*Section BC 907.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 907.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval to the Fire Department prior to system installation. Construction documents shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
- A floor plan that indicates the use of all rooms.
- Locations of alarm-initiating devices.
- Locations of alarm notification appliances, including candela ratings for visible alarm notification appliances.
- Location of fire command center, fire alarm control units, transponders and notification power supplies.
- Location of remote annunciators.
- Location of all primary, secondary and local sources of power.
- Fire alarm riser diagram showing all fire alarm devices indicated on the floor plans. Quantities of devices on the floor plans shall match the quantities indicated on the riser diagram. Riser diagram shall include class and style of circuits and levels of survivability. The riser diagram shall show the interface of fire safety control functions.
- Copies of any variances granted by the department or the Fire Department.
- Legend of all fire alarm symbols and abbreviations used.
- Design criteria for fire alarm audibility in various occupancies indicated on plans.
- Fire alarm sequence of operation for the fire alarm system in a matrix format.
- Classification of the central supervising station.
Amendments to approved construction documents shall be submitted and approved by the Fire Department before the final inspection of the work or equipment is completed, and such amendments when approved shall be deemed part of the original construction documents. The Fire Department may allow minor revisions of construction documents to be made and submitted to the Fire Department after the completion of work but prior to sign-off of the work in accordance with rules promulgated by the Fire Department regarding such amendments.
*Section BC 907.1.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 907.1.1.1 was amended by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Systems and their components shall be listed for the purpose for which they are installed. The fire alarm control unit shall meet the requirements of the Fire Department.
An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
A minimum of one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, a single fire alarm box shall be installed.
A minimum of one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, a single fire alarm box shall be installed.
Exceptions:
In all occupancies where an automatic fire alarm system is required by this section, selective coverage smoke detectors shall be located as follows, unless partial or total coverage automatic detection is specified.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the Fire Department to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is accessible to the public.
- In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room, in elevator machine rooms, and in elevator lobbies.
- In air distribution systems in accordance with Section 606 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
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A manual and automatic fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. This exception shall not apply to Group A-2 occupancies used as a cabaret.
- A Group A-2 occupancy used as a cabaret with an occupant load of 75 or more, including associated stages, dressing rooms, and property rooms, shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system. Such a Group A-2 occupancy with an occupant load of 300 or more shall also be equipped with an automatic fire alarm system.
- Group A occupancies with a stage in accordance with Section 410, and having an occupant load of 75 or more, shall be provided with a voice/alarm communication system as required by Sections 410.9 and 907.2.1.1.
Activation of the fire alarm in Group A-1 occupancies with an occupant load of 300 or more, and in all other Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more, shall initiate a presignal system in accordance with NFPA 72 at a constantly attended location from which the Fire Department shall be notified and live voice evacuation instructions shall be initiated using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
Stadiums, arenas and
grandstands required to caption audible public announcements shall be in accordance with
Section 907.5.2.2.4.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
- The combined Group B occupant load of all floors is 500 or more.
- The Group B occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
- The fire area contains an ambulatory care facility, which shall comply with Section 907.2.2.1.
Fire areas containing ambulatory care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic partial-coverage smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces and along the path of egress, including public corridors and elevator lobbies.
Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, provided the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.
Group B occupancies having a total gross area exceeding 100,000 square feet (9290.3 m2) located in buildings where the highest occupied floor is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access shall be provided with automatic smoke detection connected to an automatic fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1 and emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 that initiates a total evacuation signal.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E occupancies. An emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E occupancies. Automatic sprinkler systems, smoke detectors and/or other initiating devices, shall be installed in accordance with other sections of this code. When such systems, initiating devices, and/or detectors are installed, they shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
Exception:
Emergency voice/alarm communication systems meeting the requirements of
Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall not be required in
Group E occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or less, provided that activation of the
manual and automatic fire alarm system initiates an approved occupant notification signal in
accordance with Section 907.5.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group F occupancies that are two or more stories in height and have an occupant load of 100 or more, or when 25 persons or more are above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. In addition to the automatic fire alarm system requirements of Section 907.2, an automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Exception: Where exempt under the New York City Fire Code.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1. 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5.
Smoke detectors and notification appliances shall be installed in dwelling units and such notification appliances shall activate only in the unit in which the alarm originates. Such detectors and appliances shall be annunciated by dwelling unit at a constantly attended location from which the fire alarm system is capable of being manually activated. Smoke detectors are required in the following areas:
- Sleeping areas;
- Every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the dwelling unit; and
- Each story within the unit, including below-grade stories. For dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke detector installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors in nursing homes (both intermediate-care and skilled nursing facilities), corridors in detoxification facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the corridors by Section 407.2. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Hospitals shall be equipped with smoke detection as required in Section 407. A one-way voice communication system activated in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 shall be provided at the fire command center for use by Fire Department personnel. A two-way voice communication system in
accordance with Section 907.2.13.3 shall be provided for Group I-2 buildings.
Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual and automatic fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.
Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box, a fire detector, or a smoke detector shall initiate an approved alarm signal that automatically notifies staff.
Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.
Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally accessible to residents.
Exceptions:
- Other approved smoke detection arrangements providing equivalent protection, including, but not limited to, placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind protective guards listed for the purpose, are allowed when necessary to prevent damage or tampering.
- Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3 as described in Section 308.
- Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping units with four or fewer occupants in smoke compartments that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group M occupancies where any one of the following conditions exists:
- Where a Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1114.8 m2);
- Where a Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade;
- Where the combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2229.7 m2); or
- Where a Group M fire area in a below-grade story exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2).
Group M occupancies having a total gross area exceeding 100,000 square feet (9290.3 m2) located in buildings where the highest occupied floor is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access and covered mall buildings having a total gross area exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645.2 m2) shall be provided with automatic smoke detection connected to an automatic fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 initiating a total evacuation signal.
Fire alarm systems shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.5.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exception: A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not over two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual dwelling unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
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An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in all public corridors serving dwelling units or sleeping units in accordance with Section 907.2.8.3.
Exception: An automatic fire detection system is not required in buildings that do not have public corridors serving sleeping units and each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
Smoke detectors and audible notification appliances shall be installed in dwelling units and sleeping units and shall be annunciated by dwelling unit and sleeping unit at a constantly attended location from which the fire alarm system is capable of being manually activated. Smoke detectors are required in the following areas:
- In sleeping areas.
- In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the dwelling unit and sleeping unit.
- In each story within the unit, including below-grade stories. For dwelling units and sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level.
A manual and automatic smoke detection system
shall be installed in occupancies for student or school staff dormitory housing in all of the
following locations:
- Common spaces outside of sleeping units.
- Laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms and storage rooms.
- Interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units or dwelling units and where each sleeping unit or dwelling unit either has a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit or a means of egress door opening directly to an exit.
Group R-1 occupancies with a total of more than 50 sleeping rooms above street level located in buildings where the highest occupied floor is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access, or communal sleeping facilities above street level occupied or designed to be occupied by more than 50 lodgers, shall be provided with automatic smoke detection connected to an automatic fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 that initiates a total evacuation signal.
A fire alarm system without alarm notification appliances and smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with this section in Group R-2 occupancies, other than student apartments, where such occupancy satisfies any one of the following conditions:
- Any dwelling unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge, including dwelling units in penthouses of any area;
- Any dwelling unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit; or
- The building contains more than 16 dwelling units.
- In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room.
- In air distribution systems in accordance with Section 606 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
- In elevator machine rooms and in elevator lobbies.
Where the main use or dominant occupancy of a building is classified as R-2 student apartments, as defined in Section 310.2, fire alarm systems shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.8. Where the main use or dominant occupancy of a building is not classified as R-2 student apartments and the building is occupied partially by Group R-2 student apartments, fire alarm systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.9.1.1 through 907.2.9.2.
A manual fire alarm system shall be installed throughout all public corridors serving student apartments and student-related uses. Student-related uses shall include common spaces such as recreation rooms, lounges, dining rooms, laundry rooms and storage rooms.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not over two stories in height where all individual dwelling units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual dwelling unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings containing fewer than 15 student apartments
An automatic fire alarm system without alarm notification appliances shall be installed in accordance with this section in Group R-2 student apartments and student-related uses. The activation of any smoke detector required by this section shall initiate a signal at a central station or a constantly attended location. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
- In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room, in elevator machine rooms, and in elevator lobbies.
- In air distribution systems in accordance with Section 606 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
- Throughout all public corridors serving student apartments and student-related uses. Student-related uses shall include common spaces such as recreation rooms, lounges, dining rooms, laundry rooms and storage rooms. However, smoke detectors shall not be required in such public corridors in buildings containing fewer than 15 student apartments.
Exception: An automatic fire alarm system is not required in buildings not over two stories in height where all individual dwelling units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire barriers and each individual dwelling unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in
Group S occupancies where any one of the following conditions exists:
- Group S fire area has an occupant load of 300 occupants or more;
- The combined occupant load of all Group S fire areas on all floors, including mezzanines, is 300 or more.
Group S occupancies having a total gross area exceeding
500,000 square feet (46 451.5 m2) located in buildings, where the highest occupied floor is
75 feet (22 860) or less above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access, shall be
provided with automatic smoke detection connected to an automatic fire alarm system in
accordance with Section 907.2.13.1 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in
accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 that initiates a total evacuation signal.
Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7 and NFPA 72.
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Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2 and R-3, regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations within all dwelling units:
- On the ceiling or wall outside of each room used for sleeping purposes within 15 feet (4572 mm) from the door to such room.
- In each room used for sleeping purposes.
- In each story within a dwelling unit, including below-grade stories and penthouses of any area, but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
Smoke alarms shall be provided with the capability
to support visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with ICC/ANSI A117.1.
Required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from a dedicated branch circuit or the unswitched portion of a branch circuit also used for power or lighting, or both, and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for over-current protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms with integral strobes shall not require battery backup provided that the smoke alarms are connected to an emergency or standby power electrical source.
Smoke alarms shall not be installed in the
following locations unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm in a location
required by Section 907.2.11.1:
- Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
- Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall not be installed less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
- Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 6 feet (1828.8 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
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Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 3 feet
(914.4 mm) horizontally from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or
shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by Section 907.2.11.1.
Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
On and after January 1, 2021, smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed or replaced in an individual dwelling or sleeping unit, including dwellings or units in prior code buildings, within an area of exclusion determined by a 20 foot (6096 mm) radial distance along a horizontal flow path from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance, unless listed in accordance with the 8th edition of UL 217 for smoke alarms or the 7th edition of UL 268 for smoke detectors.
*Section 907.2.11.5 was added by: Local Law 113 of 2018. This law has an effective date of June 9, 2018.
*Section 907.2.11.5 was added by: Local Law 113 of 2018. This law has an effective date of June 9, 2018.
Smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 and
provided as part of the building fire alarm system shall be an acceptable alternative to single
and multiple station smoke alarms and shall comply with the following:
- The fire alarm system shall comply with all applicable requirements in Section 907 of this code.
- Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall initiate alarm notification in the dwelling unit or sleeping unit in accordance with Section 907.5.2 of this code.
- Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall not activate alarm notification appliances outside of the dwelling unit or sleeping unit, provided that a supervisory signal is generated and monitored in accordance with Section 907.6.5 of this code.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in special amusement buildings in accordance with Sections 907.2.12.1 through 907.2.12.3.
Actuation of a single smoke detector, automatic sprinkler system or other automatic fire detection system shall initiate a pre-signal system in accordance with NFPA 72 at a constantly attended location from which the Fire Department shall be notified and live voice evacuation instructions shall be initiated using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
The following minimum system actuations and responses shall be required upon approval by the department and the Fire Department. The activation of two or more smoke detectors, a single smoke detector equipped with an alarm verification feature, the automatic sprinkler system or other approved fire detection device shall automatically do all of the following:
- Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) at the walking surface level.
- Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
- Activate an approved directional exit marking that will become apparent in an emergency.
An emergency voice/alarm communication system, which is also allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 and be audible throughout the entire special amusement building.
In addition to the requirements of Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.12, buildings constructed in accordance with Section 403 and having floors used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection connected to an automatic fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a Fire Department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2, a two-way communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.3, and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
Exceptions:
- Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5.
- Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.6.
- Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
- Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.
In addition to smoke detection otherwise required by this code, automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1 and 907.2.13.1.2.
Exception for Group R-2 occupancies: In R-2 occupancies, the activation of smoke detectors shall initiate a signal at a central supervising station or a constantly attended location and shall not initiate a signal to alarm notification appliances.
Automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall activate the emergency voice/alarm communication system. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
Duct smoke detectors complying with Section 907.3.1 shall be located in air distribution systems in accordance with Section 606 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
The Fire Department Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS) shall be in accordance with Section 916.
A two-way voice communication system (warden) phone that complies with the requirements of NFPA 72 shall be provided in the following locations and shall comply with the following requirements. Such phones shall communicate with the fire command center.
- In Group B high-rise office buildings and large area office buildings, there shall be a minimum of two phones located on every floor accessible to all occupants, with each phone located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of a different exit stair.
- Where elevator lobbies are permitted to be locked, the phones provided are permitted to be connected to the fire alarm system.
- If phones are provided in areas of rescue assistance and refuge areas, the phones are permitted to be connected to the fire alarm system.
- Where phones are provided to meet the requirements for stairway communication systems in Section 403.5.3.1, the phones are permitted to be connected to the fire alarm system.
- In all Group I-2 buildings, there shall be a phone located at staff attended locations,
such as nurses' stations or similar locations accessible to all staff members, on every
patient floor per fire/smoke zone. Phones shall also be located in areas of the building
where the fire alarm does not sound.Exception: Group R-2 occupancies.
A fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories, with smoke detection installed in locations as required by a rational analysis in Section 909.4 and in accordance
with the system operation requirements in Section 909.17. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Such occupancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying with the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2.
An automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by the New York City Fire Code.
Aerosol storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by the New York City Fire Code.
Where a compartment smoke control system is installed in an underground building as required by Section 405, automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.18.1.
Not fewer than one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in all of the following areas:
- Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.
- Elevator lobbies.
- The main supply, main return, and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream from filters on supply ducts and in return/exhaust ducts downstream of the last duct inlet.
- Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
Activation of the smoke exhaust system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.
In underground buildings complying with Section 405 where the lowest level of a structure is more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual and automatic fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
Where the total floor area exceeds 50,000 square feet (4645.2 m2) within either a covered mall building or within the perimeter line of an open mall building, an emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the Fire Department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in airport control towers in accordance with Sections 907.2.22.1 and
907.2.22.2.
Exception: Audible appliances shall not be installed within the control tower cab.
Airport traffic control towers with multiple exits and equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be provided with smoke detectors
in all of the following locations:
- Airport traffic control cab.
- Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
- Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
- Outside each opening into interior exit stairways.
- Along the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.
- Outside each opening into the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.
Airport traffic control towers with a single
exit or where sprinklers are not installed throughout shall be provided with smoke detectors
in all of the following locations:
- Airport traffic control cab.
- Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
- Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
- Office spaces incidental to the tower operation.
- Lounges for employees, including sanitary facilities.
- Means of egress.
- Accessible utility shafts.
An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in
areas containing any battery systems. Where the battery room is located in a building or space
that is provided with a fire alarm system or subsystem, the smoke detectors shall be connected
to such building fire alarm system or subsystem. The detection system shall be supervised by a
central supervising station, or a local alarm that will sound an audible signal at a constantly
attended location. Battery rooms shall also comply with the requirements of the New York City
Fire Code.
Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location.
Exception: In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible alarm signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the New York City Mechanical Code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exceptions:
- The alarm signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detectors activate the building's alarm notification appliances.
- In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
Where delayed egress locks are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1010.1.9.7, an automatic smoke or heat detection system shall be installed as required by that section.
Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator emergency operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 30 of this code, ASME A17.1 and NFPA 72.
The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72 and the New York City Electrical Code.
All hold-open devices used in automatic-closing doors pursuant to the exception to Section 713.7 shall be electrically supervised to monitor the integrity of the wiring connections among the fire alarm system, the smoke detection system, and the hold-open devices.
Where manual or automatic alarm initiation is required as part of a fire alarm system, the initiating devices shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1 through 907.4.4.
In areas that are not continuously occupied, a single smoke detector shall be provided at the location of each fire alarm control unit, notification appliance circuit power extenders, and supervising station transmitting equipment.
Exceptions:
- Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of a smoke detector, a heat detector shall be permitted.
- In prior code buildings, where a fire alarm control unit is installed in an interior exit stairway or ramp or exit passageway, a smoke detector is not required at the location of such fire alarm control unit.
Where a manual fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by fire alarm boxes installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.2.1 through 907.4.2.6.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).
The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be not less than 42 inches (1066.8 mm) and not more than 48 inches (1220 mm), measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
Where fire alarm systems are not required to be monitored by a supervising station, an approved permanent sign that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS—CALL 911 shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box.
Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
The Fire Department is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved. Protective covers shall not project more than that permitted by Section 1003.3.3.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be readily
accessible, unobstructed, unobscured and visible at all times.
Where an automatic smoke detection system is required it shall utilize smoke detectors unless ambient conditions prohibit such an installation. In spaces where smoke detectors cannot be utilized due to ambient conditions, approved automatic heat detectors shall be permitted.
For conditions other than specific fire safety functions noted in Section 907.3, in areas where ambient conditions prohibit the installation of smoke detectors, an automatic sprinkler system installed in such areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and that is connected to the fire alarm system shall be approved as automatic heat detection.
Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code or is otherwise installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in accordance with Section 904 shall be monitored by the fire alarm system.
A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the fire alarm control unit and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Sections 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.2. Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
- Automatic fire detectors.
- Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.
- Manual fire alarm boxes.
- Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Exception: Where notification systems are allowed elsewhere in Section 907 to annunciate at a constantly attended location or to a central supervising station.
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A presignal feature shall not be installed unless approved by the Fire Department. Where a presignal feature is provided, a signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended location approved by the Fire Department, in order that occupant notification can be activated in the event of fire or other emergency.
Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.
Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and emit a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm.
Exceptions:
- Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in critical care areas of Group I-2 occupancies.
- Where provided, audible notification appliances located in each occupant evacuation elevator lobby in accordance with Section 3008.10.1 shall be connected to a separate notification zone for manual paging only.
The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of not less
than 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 75 dBA in occupancies in Groups R and I-1; 90 dBA in mechanical equipment rooms and 60 dBA in other occupancies. For one-way
voice communication system in Group R-2 occupancies, the minimum sound pressure
level of the alert tone shall be 75 dBA throughout the dwelling unit.
The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.
Emergency voice/alarm communication systems required by this code shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation in accordance with the building's fire safety and evacuation plans required by the New York City Fire Code. In high-rise buildings, the system shall operate on at least the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:
- Each exit stairway.
- Each floor.
- Refuge areas as defined in Chapter 2 of this code.
Exceptions:
- Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies. In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page.
- Group R-2 occupancies greater than 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height. In Group R-2 occupied buildings greater than 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access, activation of any smoke detector or sprinkler water flow device shall initiate a signal at a central supervising station or constantly attended location and shall not initiate a signal to an alarm notification appliance. An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall not be required. However, a one-way voice communication shall be provided between the fire command center for use by Fire Department personnel and the following terminal areas:
- Within dwelling units. An intercom system may be utilized when provided with an override feature for use by Fire Department personnel. Such intercom system shall comply with rules promulgated by the commissioner establishing installation requirements.
- Within required exit stairs. Annunciation devices shall be located at least on every other story units. Such annunciation devices shall comply with rules promulgated by the commissioner establishing installation requirements.
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A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.
When approved by the Fire Commissioner, the emergency voice/alarm communication system may be allowed to be used for other announcements.
Where stadiums, arenas
and grandstands provide audible public announcements, the emergency/voice alarm
communication system shall be captioned. Emergency captions shall be approved by the
Fire Department.
Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with an approved emergency power source in accordance with Section 2702 of
this code and the New York City Electrical Code.
Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.2.
Exceptions:
- Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Chapter 2.
- Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.
Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use areas, as defined in Chapter 2.
Exception: Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with not less than 20-percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employee(s).
Group I-1 and R-1 dwelling units or sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.5.2.3.2 shall be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke detector and the building fire alarm system.
| NUMBER OF UNITS |
UNITS WITH VISIBLE ALARMS |
| 6 to 25 | 2 |
| 26 to 50 | 4 |
| 51 to 75 | 7 |
| 76 to 100 | 9 |
| 101 to 150 | 12 |
| 151 to 200 | 14 |
| 201 to 300 | 17 |
| 301 to 400 | 20 |
| 401 to 500 | 22 |
| 501 to 1,000 | 5% of total |
| 1,001 and over | 50 plus 3 for each 100 over 1,000 |
A fire alarm system shall be installed and monitored in accordance with Sections 907.6.1 through 907.6.5.2 of this code and NFPA 72.
Wiring shall comply with the requirements of the New York City Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.
The primary and secondary power supply for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with the New York City Electrical Code.
Exception: Secondary power for single-station and multiple-station smoke alarms as required in Section 907.2.11.2.
A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided at the main building entrance accessible to responding Fire Department personnel and in other locations approved by the commissioner and the Fire Department. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible-alarm silencing switch.
In high-rise buildings constructed in accordance with Section 403, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for each of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:
- Smoke detectors.
- Sprinkler waterflow devices.
- Manual fire alarm boxes.
- Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems.
Access shall be provided to each fire alarm device and notification appliance for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the New York City Fire Code shall be monitored by a central supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72 and approved by the Fire Commissioner.
Exception: Monitoring by a central supervising station is not required for:
- Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
- Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
- Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
Termination of fire alarm monitoring services
shall be in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each device and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the smoke alarm provisions of NFPA 72.
A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the approved construction documents and specifications shall be provided.
Operating, testing and maintenance instructions, and record drawings ("as builts") and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided in accordance with Section 415.5 of this code and the New York City Fire Code.
Emergency alarms for notification of an emergency condition in a Hazardous Production Material (HPM) facility shall be provided as required in Section 415.11.3.5. A continuous gas detection system shall be provided for HPM gases in accordance with Section 415.11.7 of this code and the New York City Fire Code.
A gas detection system shall be provided to detect the presence of highly toxic or toxic gas at or below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) or ceiling limit of the gas for which detection is provided. The system shall be capable of monitoring the discharge from the treatment system at or below one-half the immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) limit and shall comply with the New York City Fire Code.
Exception: A gas detection system is not required for toxic gases when the physiological warning threshold level for the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL for the gas.
The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to a constantly attended control station when a short-term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visible and audible and shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.
Exception: Signal transmission to a constantly attended control station is not required when not more than one cylinder of highly toxic or toxic gas is stored.
The gas detection system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for whichever gas is detected.
Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required for reactors utilized for the production of highly toxic or toxic compressed gases where such reactors are:
- Operated at pressures less than 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa);
- Constantly attended; and
- Provided with readily accessible emergency shutoff valves.
The automatic closure of shutoff valves shall be in accordance with the following:
- When the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
- Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas room and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures, the shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
- Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a piping distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve for the compressed container of specific gas detected supplying the manifold shall automatically close.
Exception: When the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas-detection system alarm is at a use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shutoff valve in the gas valve enclosure for the branch line located in the piping distribution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.
Ozone gas-generator rooms shall be equipped with a continuous gas detection system that will shut off the generator and sound a local alarm when concentrations above the PEL occur and shall comply with the New York City Fire Code.
A flammable-gas detection system shall be provided in repair garages for vehicles fueled by enumerated gases in accordance with Section 406.8.5 of this code and the New York City Fire Code.
Machinery rooms shall contain refrigerant detectors with audible and visual alarms. The detectors, or sampling tubes that draw air to each detector, shall be located in all areas where refrigerant from a leak will concentrate. The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greater than the corresponding TLV-TWA values for the refrigerant classification indicated in the New York City Mechanical Code. Detectors and alarms shall be placed in approved locations. Refrigerant detectors shall initiate all functions as required by the New York City Mechanical Code and New York City Fire Code.
The emergency alarm system for a carbon dioxide system,
including detection, pre-discharge and discharge alarms, shall be provided in accordance with the
New York City Fire Code.
Gas detection systems shall be provided in accordance with Section
918.
Medical gas pressure monitoring and alarm systems shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 99.
Rooms and spaces containing flammable gas distribution piping operating at levels above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa) shall be provided with an approved flammable gas detection-alarm system and shall comply with the New York City Fire
Code.
Construction documents for emergency alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval to the Fire Department prior to system installation.
*Section BC 908.10 was added by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 908.10 was added by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
Acceptance testing and maintenance of emergency alarm systems shall be performed in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
*Section BC 908.11 was added by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
*Section BC 908.11 was added by Local Law 195 of 2018. This law has an effective date of May 30, 2019.
This section applies to mechanical or passive smoke control systems where they are required by other provisions of this code. A smoke control system, where required, facilitates the evacuation of the occupants. The purpose of this section is to establish minimum requirements for the design, installation and acceptance testing of smoke control systems that are intended to provide a tenable environment for the evacuation or relocation of occupants. These provisions are not intended for the preservation of contents, the timely restoration of operations or for assistance in fire suppression or post-fire smoke purge. Smoke control systems regulated by this section serve a different purpose than the smoke- and heat-venting provisions found in Section 910. Mechanical smoke control systems shall not be considered exhaust systems under Chapter 5 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
The following terms are defined in Chapter 2 of this code:
ELEVATOR LANDING.
PRESSURIZATION.
SMOKE.
SMOKE BARRIER.
SMOKE CONTROL MODE.
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM, MECHANICAL.
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM, PASSIVE.
SMOKE CONTROL ZONE.
SMOKE DAMPER.
STACK EFFECT.
TENABLE ENVIRONMENT.
ELEVATOR LANDING.
PRESSURIZATION.
SMOKE.
SMOKE BARRIER.
SMOKE CONTROL MODE.
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM, MECHANICAL.
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM, PASSIVE.
SMOKE CONTROL ZONE.
SMOKE DAMPER.
STACK EFFECT.
TENABLE ENVIRONMENT.
Buildings, structures or parts thereof required by this code to have a smoke control system or systems shall have such systems designed in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 909 and the generally accepted and well-established principles of engineering relevant to the design. The construction documents shall include sufficient information and detail to adequately describe the elements of the design necessary for the proper implementation of the smoke control systems. These documents shall be accompanied by sufficient information and analysis to demonstrate compliance with these provisions.
In addition to the ordinary inspection and test requirements that buildings, structures and parts thereof are required to undergo, smoke control systems subject to the provisions of Section 909 shall undergo special inspections and tests sufficient to verify the proper commissioning of the smoke control design in its final installed condition. The design submission accompanying the construction documents shall clearly detail procedures and methods to be used and the devices, flow measurement, and other items subject to such inspections and tests. Such commissioning shall be in accordance with generally accepted engineering practice and, where possible, based on published standards for the particular testing involved. The special inspections and tests required by this section shall be conducted under the same terms in Section 1705. Records of the special inspection, including device locations, duct air leakage, pressure differentials, air/smoke flow measurements, smoke detection and control verification shall be maintained on the premises as a baseline against which future tests can be compared.
Smoke control systems shall be verified weekly through the automatic control system in accordance with Section 909.12 and shall be tested annually to ensure proper operation of detection devices, dampers, fans and controls in accordance with the requirements of Sections 909.18.1, 909.18.3, 909.18.5 and 909.18.7. Full testing of smoke control systems in accordance with Sections 909.18 through 909.18.7 shall be conducted at 5-year intervals by an inspector qualified in accordance with Section 909.18.8.2. Test reports shall include all information required by Section 909.18.8.3 and shall be compared against the baseline special inspection report. Causes for any significant deviations from the baseline report shall be identified and corrected. A record of each inspection and test shall be maintained on the premises by the owner or lessee, and the records for at least the last 5 years of operation shall be made available for inspection by the department and the Fire Commissioner.
A rational analysis supporting the types of smoke control systems to be employed, their methods of operation, the systems supporting them and the methods of construction to be utilized shall accompany the submitted construction documents and shall include, but not be limited to, the items indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.7. The basis of design and design analysis of the smoke control system shall be submitted to the department and the Fire Department.
The system shall be designed such that the maximum probable normal or reverse stack effect will not adversely interfere with the system's capabilities. In determining the maximum probable stack effect, altitude, elevation, weather history and interior temperatures shall be used.
Buoyancy and expansion caused by the design fire in accordance with Section 909.9 shall be analyzed. The system shall be designed such that these effects do not adversely interfere with the system's capabilities.
The design shall consider the adverse effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consistent with the wind-loading provisions of Chapter 16.
The design shall consider the effects of the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems on both smoke and fire transport. The analysis shall include all permutations of systems' status. The design shall consider the effects of the fire on the HVAC systems.
The design shall consider the effects of low temperatures on systems, property and occupants. Air inlets and exhausts shall be located so as to prevent snow or ice blockage.
All portions of active or passive smoke control systems shall be capable of continued operation after detection of the fire event for a period of not less than either 20 minutes or 1.5 times the required safe egress time, whichever is greater.
The design shall consider the interaction effects of
the operation of multiple smoke control systems for all design scenarios.
Smoke barriers required for passive smoke control and a smoke control system using the pressurization method shall comply with Section 709. Smoke barriers shall be constructed and sealed to limit leakage areas exclusive of protected openings. The maximum allowable leakage area shall be the aggregate area calculated using the following leakage area ratios:
The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due to gaps around doors and operable windows. The total leakage area of the smoke barrier shall be determined in accordance with Section 909.5.1 and tested in accordance with Section 909.5.2.
- Walls: A/Aw = 0.00100
- Interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways:
A/Aw = 0.00035 - Enclosed exit access stairways and ramps and all other shafts:
A/Aw = 0.00150 - Floors and roofs: A/AF = 0.00050
| A | = | Maximum allowable leakage area, square feet (m2). |
| AF | = | Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m2). |
| Aw | = | Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m2). |
The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due to gaps around doors and operable windows. The total leakage area of the smoke barrier shall be determined in accordance with Section 909.5.1 and tested in accordance with Section 909.5.2.
Total leakage area of the barrier is the product of the smoke barrier gross area multiplied by the allowable leakage area ratio, plus the area of other openings such as gaps around doors and operable windows.
Compliance with the maximum
allowable leakage area shall be determined by achieving the minimum air pressure difference
across the barrier with the system in the smoke control mode for mechanical smoke control
systems utilizing the pressurization method. Compliance with the maximum allowable leakage
area of passive smoke control systems shall be verified through methods such as door fan testing
or other methods, as approved by the commissioner and the Fire Commissioner.
Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected by automatic-closing devices actuated by the required controls for the mechanical smoke control system. Door openings shall be protected by fire door assemblies complying with Section 716.5.3.
Exceptions:
- Passive smoke control systems with automatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing service installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
- Fixed openings between smoke zones that are protected utilizing the airflow method.
- In Group I-1, Group I-2, and Group B ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 909.5.3.1, the doors shall not be required to be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall be close-fitting within operational tolerances and shall not have a center mullion, louvers, grilles, or door undercuts in excess of 3/4 inch (19.1 mm). The doors shall have head and jamb stops and astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. If allowed by the door manufacturer's listing, positive-latching devices are not required.
- In Group I-1, Group I-2 and Group B ambulatory care facilities, where such doors are special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies installed in accordance with Section 1010.1.4.3 and are automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3.
- Group I-3.
- Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as determined by the design fire size.
In Group I-2 and Group B
ambulatory care facilities, where doors are installed across a corridor, the doors shall be
automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3 and shall have a
vision panel with fire protection-rated glazing materials in fire protection-rated frames, the
area of which shall not exceed that tested.
Ducts and air transfer openings are required to be protected with a minimum Class II, 250°F (121.1°C) smoke damper complying with Section 717.
The primary mechanical means of controlling smoke shall be by pressure differences across smoke barriers. Maintenance of a tenable environment is not required in the smoke control zone of fire origin.
The minimum pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be 0.05-inch water gauge (0.0124 kPa) in fully sprinklered buildings. In buildings permitted to be other than fully sprinklered, the smoke control system shall be designed to achieve pressure differences not less than two times the maximum calculated pressure difference produced by the design fire.
The maximum air pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be determined by required door-opening or closing forces. The actual force required to open exit doors when the system is in the smoke control mode shall be in accordance with Section 1010.1.3. Opening and closing forces for other doors shall be determined by standard engineering methods for the resolution of forces and reactions. The calculated force to set a side-hinged, swinging door in motion shall be determined by:
(Equation 9-1)
where:
(Equation 9-1)where:
| A | = | Door area, square feet (m2). |
| d | = | Distance from door handle to latch edge of door, feet (m). |
| F | = | Total door opening force, pounds (N). |
| Fdc | = | Force required to overcome closing device, pounds (N). |
| K | = | Coefficient 5.2 (1.0). |
| W | = | Door width, feet (m). |
| ΔP | = | Design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa). |
Where stairways or elevator hoistways
are pressurized, such pressurization systems shall comply with Section 909 of this code as smoke
control systems, in addition to the requirements of Sections 909.20 and 909.21 of this code and
the New York City Fire Code.
Where approved by the commissioner, smoke migration through openings fixed in a permanently open position, which are located between smoke control zones by the use of the airflow method, shall be permitted. The design air flow shall be in accordance with this section. Air flow shall be directed to limit smoke migration from the fire zone. The geometry of openings shall be considered to prevent flow reversal from turbulent effects. Smoke
control systems using the airflow method shall be designed in accordance with NFPA 92.
This method shall not be employed where either the quantity of air or the velocity of the airflow will adversely affect other portions of the smoke control system, unduly intensify the fire, disrupt plume dynamics or interfere with exiting. In no case shall airflow toward the fire exceed 200 feet per minute (1.02 m/s). Where the calculated airflow exceeds this limit, the airflow method shall not be used.
The design fire shall be based on a rational analysis performed by the registered design professional and approved by the commissioner. The design fire shall be based on the analysis in accordance with Section 909.4 and this section.
The engineering analysis shall include the characteristics of the fuel, fuel load, effects included by the fire and whether the fire is likely to be steady or unsteady.
Determination of the design fire shall include consideration of the type of fuel, fuel spacing and configuration.
The analysis shall make use of best available data from approved sources and shall not be based on excessively stringent limitations of combustible material.
A documented engineering analysis shall be provided for conditions that assume fire growth is halted at the time of sprinkler activation.
Components of exhaust fans shall be rated and certified by the manufacturer for the probable temperature rise to which the components will be exposed. This temperature rise shall be computed in accordance with NFPA 92.
Duct materials and joints shall be capable of withstanding the probable temperatures and pressures to which they are exposed as determined in accordance with Section 909.10.1. Ducts shall be constructed and supported in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code. Ducts shall be leak tested to 1.5 times the maximum design pressure in accordance with nationally accepted practices. Measured leakage shall not exceed 5 percent of design flow. Results of such testing shall be a part of the documentation procedure. Ducts shall be supported directly from fire-resistance-rated structural elements of the building by substantial, noncombustible supports.
Exception: Flexible connections, for the purpose of vibration isolation, complying with the New York City Mechanical Code and that are constructed of approved fire-resistance-rated materials.
Equipment shall be located so as not to expose uninvolved portions of the building to an additional fire hazard. Outside air inlets shall be located so as to minimize the potential for introducing smoke or flame into the building. Exhaust outlets shall be located so as to minimize reintroduction of smoke into the building and to limit exposure of the building or adjacent buildings to an additional fire hazard.
Automatic dampers, regardless of the purpose for which they are installed within the smoke control system, shall comply with Section 717.3.1.
In addition to other requirements, belt-driven fans shall have 1.5 times the number of belts required for the design duty with the minimum number of belts being two. Fans shall be selected for stable performance based on normal temperature and, where applicable, elevated temperature. Calculations and manufacturer's fan curves shall be part of the documentation procedures. Fans shall be supported and restrained by noncombustible devices in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 16. Motors driving fans shall not be operated beyond their nameplate horsepower (kilowatts), as determined from measurement of actual current draw, and shall have a minimum service factor of 1.15.
Smoke control systems covered by Section 909 are required to function after an earthquake. Such smoke control systems shall be seismically designed in accordance with Section 1613 of this code and ASCE 7. The component importance factor, Ip, shall be taken as 1.5 in accordance with ASCE 7, Section 13.1.3. The smoke control system includes all components required for its operation, including but not limited to fans, ducts, electrical power, switchboards, motor control centers, starters, and controls.
Exception: Smoke control systems in structures classified in Seismic Design Categories A or B shall have a component importance factor, Ip, of 1.0.
The smoke control system shall be supplied with two sources of power. The primary power supply shall be from the normal building power systems, while the secondary power source shall be from a standby power system complying with Section 2702.
The standby power source shall be located in a room separate from
the normal power transformers and switch gears, and ventilated directly to and from the exterior.
The room shall be enclosed with not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with
Section 707, or with not less than 2-hour fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies constructed
in accordance with Section 711, or both.
Elements of the smoke control system relying on electronic volatile memories or similar systems shall be supplied with uninterruptable power sources of sufficient duration to span a 15-minute primary power interruption. Elements of the smoke control system susceptible to power surges shall be suitably protected by conditioners, suppressors or other approved means.
Fire detection systems providing control input or output signals to mechanical smoke control systems or elements thereof shall comply with the requirements of Section 907. Such systems shall be equipped with a control unit complying with UL 864 and listed as smoke control equipment.
Control systems for mechanical smoke control systems shall include provisions for verification. Verification shall include positive confirmation of actuation, testing, manual override and the presence of power downstream of all disconnects. A preprogrammed weekly test sequence shall report, abnormal conditions audibly, visually and by printed report. The preprogrammed weekly test shall operate all devices, equipment and components used for smoke control.
Exception:
Where verification of individual components tested through the preprogrammed
weekly testing sequence will interfere with, and produce unwanted effects to, normal building
operation, such individual components are permitted to be bypassed from the preprogrammed
weekly testing, where approved by the Fire Department and in accordance with both of the
following:
- Where the operation of components is bypassed from the preprogrammed weekly test, presence of power downstream of all disconnects shall be verified weekly by a listed control unit.
- Testing of all components bypassed from the preprogrammed weekly test shall be tested semi-annually, and be tested under standby power conditions in accordance with Section 909 of the New York City Fire Code.
In addition to meeting requirements of the New York City Electrical Code, all wiring, regardless of voltage, shall be fully enclosed within continuous raceways.
Smoke control systems shall be activated in accordance with this section.
Mechanical smoke control systems using the pressurization, airflow or exhaust method shall have completely automatic control.
Passive smoke control systems actuated by spot-type detectors listed for releasing service shall be permitted.
Where completely automatic control is required or used, the automatic-control sequences shall be initiated from an appropriately zoned automatic sprinkler system complying with Section 903.3.1.1, manual controls that are readily accessible to the Fire Department and any smoke detectors required by engineering analysis. See Section 909.16 for manual control requirements.
Automatic and manual operation of the smoke control system may alternately be done through a Building Management System (BMS) that is approved by the Fire Department and meets the following requirements:
- The BMS system shall be listed for UL 864 UUKL Smoke Control.
- The BMS Control Center shall be staffed 24 hours a day by operators trained in the building's smoke control systems and their operation. The smoke control system shall be operated by a certificate of fitness holder where required by the New York City Fire Code.
- The control room shall be 2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
- BMS annunciation and additional control station locations shall be located in the fire command center in accordance with Section 909.16.
Control air tubing shall be of sufficient size to meet the required response times. Tubing shall be flushed clean and dry prior to final connections and shall be adequately supported and protected from damage. Tubing passing through concrete or masonry shall be sleeved and protected from abrasion and electrolytic action.
Control air tubing shall be hard drawn copper, Type L, ACR in accordance with ASTM B 42, ASTM B 43, ASTM B 68, ASTM B 88, ASTM B 251 and ASTM B 280. Fittings shall be wrought copper or brass, solder type, in accordance with ASME B 16.18 or ASME B16.22. Changes in direction shall be made with appropriate tool bends. Brass compression-type fittings shall be used at final connection to devices; other joints shall be brazed using a BCuP-5 brazing alloy with solidus above 1,100°F (593.3°C) and liquids below 1,500°F (815.6°C). Brazing flux shall be used on copper-to-brass joints only.
Exception: Nonmetallic tubing used within control panels and at the final connection to devices provided all of the following conditions are met:
- Tubing shall comply with the optical density, flame spread, and the listing & labeling requirements of Section 602.2.1.3 of the New York City Mechanical Code.
- Tubing and connected devices shall be completely enclosed within a galvanized or paint-grade steel enclosure having a minimum thickness of 0.0296 inch (0.7534 mm) (No. 22 gage). Entry to the enclosure shall be by copper tubing with a protective grommet of neoprene or Teflon or by suitable brass compression to male-barbed adapter.
- Tubing shall be identified by appropriately documented coding.
- Tubing shall be neatly tied and supported within the enclosure. Tubing bridging cabinets and doors or moveable devices shall be of sufficient length to avoid tension and excessive stress. Tubing shall be protected against abrasion. Tubing serving devices on doors shall be fastened along hinges.
Control air tubing shall be tested at three times the operating pressure for not less than 30 minutes without any noticeable loss in gauge pressure prior to final connection to devices.
The detection and control systems shall be clearly marked at all junctions, accesses and terminations.
Identical control diagrams showing all devices in the system and identifying their location and function shall be maintained current and kept on file with the department, the Fire Department and in the fire command center in a format and manner approved by the Fire Commissioner.
A firefighter's smoke control panel for Fire Department emergency response purposes only shall be provided and shall include manual control or override of automatic control for mechanical smoke control systems. The panel shall be located in a fire command center complying with Section 911 in high-rise buildings or buildings with smoke-protected assembly seating. In all other buildings, the firefighter's smoke control panel shall be installed in the ground floor lobby of the building, adjacent to the fire alarm control panel or remote annunciator, or in another approved location. The firefighter's smoke control panel shall either be a separate panel or can be integrated with a UUKL listed fire alarm control panel. The firefighter's smoke control panel shall comply with Sections 909.16.1 through 909.16.3. Where required in Section 917, the post-fire smoke purge system shall be manually activated from the firefighter's control panel or an adjacent panel.
Fans within the building shall be shown on the firefighter's control panel. A clear indication of the direction of airflow and the relationship of components shall be displayed. Status indicators shall be provided for all smoke control equipment, annunciated by fan and zone, and by pilot-lamp-type indicators as follows:
- Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their normal status—WHITE.
- Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their on or open status—GREEN.
- Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in a fault status—YELLOW/AMBER.
- Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their off or closed status—RED.
The firefighter's control panel shall provide control capability over the complete smoke control system equipment within the building as follows:
- ON-AUTO-OFF control over each individual piece of operating smoke control equipment that can also be controlled from other sources within the building. This includes stairway pressurization fans; smoke exhaust fans; supply, return and exhaust fans; elevator shaft fans and other operating equipment used or intended for smoke control purposes.
- OPEN-AUTO-CLOSE control over dampers relating to smoke control and that are also controlled from other sources within the building. Dampers are permitted to be controlled by individual damper or grouped by smoke zone.
- ON-OFF or OPEN-CLOSE control over smoke control and other critical equipment associated with a fire or smoke emergency and that can only be controlled from the firefighter's control panel. The firefighter's control panel shall be configured as described in Section 911.
Exceptions:
- Systems, where approved by the commissioner and the Fire Department, where the controls and indicators are combined to control and indicate all elements of a single smoke zone as a unit.
- Systems, where approved by the commissioner and the Fire Department, where the control is accomplished by computer interface using approved, plain English commands.
The firefighter's control panel actions shall be as follows:
- ON-OFF and OPEN-CLOSE control actions shall have the highest priority of any control point within the building. Once issued from the firefighter's control panel, automatic or manual control from any other control point within the building shall not contradict the control action. Where automatic means are provided to interrupt normal, nonemergency equipment operation or produce a specific result to safeguard the building or equipment including, but not limited to, duct freezestats, duct smoke detectors, high-temperature cutouts, temperature-actuated linkage and similar devices, such means shall be capable of being overridden by the firefighter's control panel. The last control action as indicated by each firefighter's control panel switch position shall prevail. Control actions shall not require the smoke control system to assume more than one configuration at any one time.
Exception: Power disconnects required by the New York City Electrical Code.
- Only the AUTO position of each three-position firefighter's control panel switch shall allow automatic or manual control action from other control points within the building. The AUTO position shall be the NORMAL, nonemergency, building control position. Where a firefighter's control panel is in the AUTO position, the actual status of the device (on, off, open, closed) shall continue to be indicated by the status indicator described in Section 909.16.1. Where directed by an automatic signal to assume an emergency condition, the NORMAL position shall become the emergency condition for that device or group of devices within the zone. Control actions shall not require the smoke control system to assume more than one configuration at any one time.
Smoke-control system activation shall be initiated immediately after receipt of an appropriate automatic or manual activation command. Smoke control systems shall activate individual components (such as dampers and fans) in the sequence necessary to prevent physical damage to the fans, dampers, ducts and other equipment. For purposes of smoke control, the firefighter's control panel response time shall be the same for automatic or manual smoke control action initiated from any other building control point. The total response time, including that necessary for detection, shutdown of operating equipment and smoke control system startup, shall allow for full operational mode to be achieved before the conditions in the space exceed the design smoke condition. The system response time for each component and their sequential relationships shall be detailed in the required rational analysis and verification of their installed condition reported in the required final report.
Ducts that are part of a smoke control system shall be traversed using generally accepted practices to determine actual air quantities.
Dampers shall be tested for function in their installed condition.
Inlets and outlets shall be read using generally accepted practices to determine air quantities.
Fans shall be examined for correct rotation. Measurements of voltage, amperage, revolutions per minute (rpm) and belt tension shall be made.
Measurements using inclined manometers or other approved calibrated measuring devices shall be made of the pressure differences across smoke barriers. Such measurements shall be conducted for each possible smoke control condition.
Each smoke zone equipped with an automatic-initiation device shall be put into operation by the actuation of one such device. Each additional device within the zone shall be verified to cause the same sequence without requiring the operation of fan motors in order to prevent damage. Control sequences shall be verified throughout the system, including verification of override from the firefighter's control panel and simulation of standby power conditions.
Special inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the following:
- During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.
- Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure-difference testing, flow measurements, and detection and control verification.
Special inspectors for smoke control shall have a certification as air balancers and expertise in fire protection engineering or mechanical engineering.
A complete report of testing shall be prepared by the special inspector or approved agency. The report shall include identification of all devices by manufacturer, nameplate data, design values, measured values and identification tag or mark. The report shall be reviewed by the responsible engineer and, when satisfied that the design intent has been achieved, the engineer shall seal, sign and date the report.
A copy of the final report and each inspection report shall be filed with the department and Fire Commissioner, and an identical copy shall be maintained in an approved location at the building.
Charts, drawings and other documents identifying and locating each component of the smoke control system, and describing its proper function and maintenance requirements, shall be maintained on file at the building as an attachment to the report required by Section 909.18.8.3. Devices shall have an approved identifying tag or mark on them consistent with the other required documentation and shall be dated indicating the last time they were successfully tested and by whom.
Buildings, or portions thereof, required by this code to comply with this section shall not be issued a certificate of occupancy until such time that the department determines that the provisions of this section have been fully satisfied and a written maintenance program is
approved by the New York City Fire Department.
Exception: In buildings of phased construction, the department may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy provided that those portions of the building to be occupied meet the requirements of this section and that the remainder does not pose a significant hazard to the safety of the proposed occupants or adjacent buildings.
Where required by Section 1023.11, a smoke proof enclosure shall be constructed in accordance with this section. Where access to the roof is required by the New York City Fire Code, such access shall be from the smoke proof enclosure where a smoke proof enclosure is required. Smokeproof enclosures shall consist of one of the following systems:
- An enclosed interior exit stairway constructed in accordance with Section 1023 and accessed through an open exterior balcony.
- An enclosed interior exit stairway constructed in accordance with Section 1023 and accessed through a naturally ventilated vestibule.
- An enclosed interior exit stairway constructed in accordance with Section 1023 and accessed through a mechanically ventilated vestibule.
- A pressurized interior exit stairway constructed in accordance with Section 1023.
Access to the interior exit stairway or ramp shall be by way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony, unless such stairway is pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.5. The minimum dimension of the vestibule or open exterior balcony shall not be less than the required width of the corridor leading to the vestibule or open exterior balcony but shall not have a width of less than 44 inches (1117.6 mm) and shall not have a length of less than 72 inches (1828.8 mm) in the direction of egress travel.
Upcodes Diagrams
The smoke proof enclosure shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings are not permitted other than the required means of egress doors. The vestibule shall be separated from the stairway or ramp by not less than a 2-hour fire-resistance-rated fire barrier. The open exterior balcony shall be constructed in accordance with the fire-resistance-rating requirements for floor construction.
Upcodes Diagrams
Doors in a smoke proof enclosure shall be self- or automatic-closing by actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3 and shall be installed at the floor-side entrance to the smoke proof enclosure. The actuation of the smoke detector on any door shall activate the closing devices on all doors in the smoke proof enclosure at all levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
The provisions of Sections 909.20.3.1 through 909.20.3.3 shall apply to ventilation of smoke proof enclosures by natural means.
Upcodes Diagrams
Where access to the stairway or ramp is by way of an open exterior balcony, the door assembly into the enclosure shall be a fire door assembly in accordance with Section 716.5.
Where access to the stairway or ramp is by way of a vestibule, the door assembly into the vestibule shall be a fire door assembly complying with Section 716.5. The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway shall have not less than a 90-minute fire protection rating complying with Section 716.5.
Each vestibule shall have a minimum net area of 16 square feet (1.5 m2) of opening in a wall facing an outer court, yard or public way that is not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width.
The provisions of Sections 909.20.4.1 through 909.20.4.5 shall apply to ventilation of smoke proof enclosures by mechanical means.
Upcodes Diagrams
The door assembly from the building into the vestibule shall be a fire door assembly complying with Section 716.5.3. The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway or ramp shall not have less than a 90-minute fire protection rating and shall meet the requirements for a smoke door assembly in accordance with Section 716.5.3. The door shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 105.
The vestibule shall be supplied with not less than one air change per minute and the exhaust shall not be less than 150 percent of supply. Supply air shall enter and exhaust air shall discharge from the vestibule through separate, tightly constructed ducts used only for that purpose. Supply air shall enter the vestibule within 6 inches (152.4 mm) of the floor level. The top of the exhaust register shall be located at the top of the smoke trap but not more than 6 inches (152.4 mm) down from the top of the trap, and shall be entirely within the smoke trap area. Doors in the open position shall not obstruct duct openings. Duct openings with controlling dampers are permitted where necessary to meet the design requirements, but dampers are not otherwise required.
Where a specially engineered system is used, the system shall exhaust a quantity of air equal to not less than 90 air changes per hour from any vestibule in the emergency operation mode and shall be sized to handle three vestibules simultaneously. Smoke detectors shall be located at the floor-side entrance to each vestibule and shall activate the system for the affected vestibule. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
The vestibule ceiling shall not be less than 20 inches (508 mm) higher than the door opening into the vestibule to serve as a smoke and heat trap and to provide an upward-moving air column. The height shall not be decreased unless approved and justified by design and test.
The stairway or ramp shaft shall be provided with a dampered relief opening and supplied with sufficient air to maintain a minimum positive pressure of 0.10 inch of water (24.9 Pa) in the shaft relative to the vestibule with all doors closed. The system shall maintain a maximum of 0.35 inch of water (87.2 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all stairway doors closed under maximum anticipated stack pressures.
Door opening force shall not exceed limits in Section 1010.1.3.
Where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the vestibule is not required, provided each interior exit stairway or ramp is pressurized to not less than 0.10 inch of water (24.9 Pa) and not more than 0.35 inches of water (87.2 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all interior exit stairway and ramp doors closed under maximum anticipated conditions of stack effect and wind effect.
The activation of ventilating equipment required by the alternatives in Sections 909.20.4 and 909.20.5 shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an approved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. When the closing device for the stairway and ramp shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
Upcodes Diagrams
Smokeproof enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:
- Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and directly connected to the smokeproof enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
- Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
- Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
Exceptions:
- Control wiring and power wiring utilizing a 2-hour rated cable or cable system in accordance with UL 2196.
- Where encased with not less than 2 inches (50.8 mm) of concrete.
- Control wiring and power wiring protected by a listed electrical circuit protective system with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the department or approved agency to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.
Where elevator hoistway pressurization is
provided in lieu of required enclosed elevator lobbies, the pressurization system shall comply with
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