Transcript LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND

LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Louisiana Automatic Fire Alarm Western
Region Meeting
Lafayette
9/28/01
NFPA 72 and NFPA 101
Supervised Automatic Sprinkler
System Overview
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 72 and NFPA 101
Supervised Automatic Sprinkler System
Overview
 Look at the requirements that mandates these systems
 Understand how to find these requirements in the codes
 Explain how these requirements affect your fire alarm
designs
 Outline what needs to be provided for code compliance
 Detail how to submit these systems for plan review
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 “What is the difference between an approved automatic
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sprinkler system and approved supervised automatic
sprinkler system?”
“How does the sprinkler system affect my fire alarm
system design?”
“How do I know that the sprinkler is required to be
supervised?”
“Is it acceptable to chain open the main supply valve as
prescribed in NFPA 13 and meet the intent of a supervised
system?”
“If my fire alarm system is connected to the building
sprinkler system, is it then automatically required to
transmit off site to a monitoring facility?”
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
 9.7.2.1* Supervisory Signals. Where supervised automatic sprinkler
systems are required by another section of this Code, supervisory
attachments shall be installed and monitored for integrity in
accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code, and a distinctive
supervisory signal shall be provided to indicate a condition that would
impair the satisfactory operation of the sprinkler system. Monitoring
shall include, but shall not be limited to, monitoring of control valves,
fire pump power supplies and running conditions, water tank levels
and temperatures, tank pressure, and air pressure on dry-pipe valves.
Supervisory signals shall sound and shall be displayed either at a
location within the protected building that is constantly attended by
qualified personnel or at an approved, remotely located receiving
facility. (Note: This office’s interpretation of “constantly attended
location” is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.)
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
 9.7.2.2 Alarm Signal Transmission. Where supervision of
automatic sprinkler systems is provided in accordance with
another provision of this Code, waterflow alarms shall be
transmitted to an approved, proprietary alarm receiving
facility, a remote station, a central station, or the fire
department. Such connection shall be in accordance with
9.6.1.4. (Therefore based on this requirement the proposed fire alarm
system cannot be a local system!)
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
 Mandates for supervised automatic sprinkler systems are
rarely in the _.3.5 Extinguishing Requirements in
occupancy chapters in the Life Safety Code.
 These requirements are typically given as a code trade-off
to extend travel distances, dead-end corridors, or common
path of travel.
 These requirements sometimes are stipulated in minimum
construction type limitations in specific occupancy
chapters.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
“Does this mean that I am going to have to
look at other sections of the code, other than
fire alarm section, to verify that my fire alarm
design is code compliant?”
 Absolutely! The 2000 edition of the Life Safety Code has
changed a majority of the sprinkler requirements and
sprinkler exceptions to include the term “supervised”.
 You need to be “code savvy.”
 Understand other requirements that would mandate a
“supervised automatic sprinkler system” - this will affect
the design of your fire alarm system.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
 There are requirements in the “core chapters” (Chapters 1- 11)
 7.2.12 Areas of Refuge.
7.2.12.1 General.
An area of refuge used as part of a required accessible means of egress in
accordance with 7.5.4, or used as a part of any required means of egress,
shall conform to the following:
(1) The general requirements of Section 7.1
(2) The requirements of 7.2.12.2 and 7.2.12.3
Exception: The requirement of 7.2.12.1(2) shall not apply to areas of
refuge consisting of stories of buildings protected throughout by an
approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 9.7.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
 There are requirements in the “core chapters” (Chapters 1- 11)
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7.5.1.4*
Where two exits or exit access doors are required, they shall be placed at a distance from one
another not less than one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the
building or area to be served, measured in a straight line between the nearest edge of the exit
doors or exit access doors. Where exit enclosures are provided as the required exits and are
interconnected by not less than a 1-hour fire resistance-rated corridor, exit separation shall be
permitted to be measured along the line of travel within the corridor.
Where more than two exits or exit access doors are required, at least two of the required exits
or exit access doors shall be arranged to comply with the minimum separation distance
requirement. The other exits or exit access doors shall be located so that if one becomes
blocked, the others shall be available.
Exception No. 1: In buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7, the minimum separation distance between
two exits or exit access doors measured in accordance with 7.5.1.4 shall be not less than onethird the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be
served.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
 16.2.5.2
 No dead-end corridor shall exceed 20 ft (6.1 m), other than in
buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7, in
which case dead-end corridors shall not exceed 50 ft (15 m).
 16.2.5.3
 No common path of travel shall exceed 75 ft (23 m), other than
for the first 100 ft (30 m) in a building protected throughout by
an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 9.7.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
 16.2.6.2
 Travel distance shall meet the following criteria:
(1) The travel distance between any room door intended as an exit access
and an exit shall not exceed 100 ft (30 m).
(2) The travel distance between any point in a room and an exit shall not
exceed 150 ft (45 m).
(3) The travel distance between any point in a sleeping room and an exit
access door in that room shall not exceed 50 ft (15 m).
 Exception: The travel distance in 16.2.6.2(1) and (2) shall be permitted to be
increased by 50 ft (15 m) in buildings protected throughout by an approved,
supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
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16.2.11.1 Windows for Rescue.
 Every room or space normally subject to client occupancy, other than bathrooms, shall
have not less than one outside window for emergency rescue that complies with the
following:
(1) Such windows shall be openable from the inside without the use of tools and shall
provide a clear opening of not less than 20 in. (51 cm) in width, 24 in. (61 cm) in
height, and 5.7 ft2 (0.53 m2) in area.
(2) The bottom of the opening shall be not more than 44 in. (112 cm) above the floor.
(3) The clear opening shall allow a rectangular solid, with a width and height that
provides not less than the required 5.7-ft2 (0.53-m2) opening and a depth of not less
than 20 in. (51 cm), to pass fully through the opening.
 Exception No. 1: This requirement shall not apply to buildings protected throughout
by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
 16.3.6 Corridors.
 Every interior corridor shall be constructed of walls having not
less than a 1-hour fire resistance rating in accordance with 8.2.3.
 Exception No. 2: In buildings protected throughout by an
approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 9.7, corridor walls shall not be required to be rated,
provided that such walls form smoke partitions in accordance
with 8.2.4.
 “What about 16.3.4 - Detection, Alarm, and Communications
Systems or 16.3.5 - Extinguishment Requirements?”
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
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16.3.4 Detection, Alarm, and Communications Systems.
16.3.4.1 General.
Day-care occupancies, other than day-care occupancies housed in one room, shall be provided with a fire
alarm system in accordance with Section 9.6.
16.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by manual means and by operation of any required
smoke detectors and required sprinkler systems. (See 16.3.4.5.)
16.3.4.3 Occupant Notification.
16.3.4.3.1 Occupant notification shall be in accordance with 9.6.3.
16.3.4.3.2 Positive alarm sequence shall be permitted in accordance with 9.6.3.4.
16.3.4.4 Emergency Forces Notification.
Fire department notification shall be accomplished in accordance with 9.6.4.
16.3.4.5 Detection.
A smoke detection system in accordance with Section 9.6 shall be installed in day-care occupancies, other
than those housed in one room. Detectors shall be installed on each story in front of the doors to the
stairways and in the corridors of all floors occupied by the day-care occupancy. Detectors also shall be
installed in lounges, recreation areas, and sleeping rooms in the day-care occupancy.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
Chapter 16 - New Day Care Occupancy
 16.3.5 Extinguishment Requirements.
Any required sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with
Section 9.7.
 Neither of these sections require the automatic sprinkler system
to be supervised - this is an example of why you need to have a
better understanding of the codes as a whole! Code Savvy!
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 What if the building is not required to have a fire alarm system in
accordance with the _.3.4 section of the occupancy chapter, but the building
owner wishes to utilize a supervised automatic sprinkler system to enhance
an architectural feature, what would be the minimum equipment to satisfy
this requirement?
 The State Fire Marshal’s Office views these “supervised automatic sprinkler
systems” as required fire alarm systems not providing occupant notification
at the protected premise. Therefore, the following equipment would be
required:
 Control Panel - Listed for the appropriate signaling system type,
sprinkler supervision and waterflow.
 Manual pull station - See 101:9.6.2.5, required when the sprinkler
system is down due to maintenance.
 Waterflow & tamper devices
 Smoke detector - See 72:1-5.6, required if the control panel is not
located in a continuous occupied area.
 These systems can be submitted on the Fire Alarm Exemption Request Form
pursuant to State Fire Marshal Memorandum 99-2.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 “What is the difference between an approved automatic
sprinkler system and approved supervised automatic sprinkler
system?”
Supervised sprinkler systems are monitored for integrity by the fire alarm
control panel, which transmit signals (supervisory, trouble and alarm) to a
monitoring facility.
 “How does the sprinkler system affect my fire alarm system
design?”
The supervisory requirements of NFPA 101 would prohibit the fire alarm
signaling system type to be a protected premises or local.
 “How do I know that the sprinkler is required to be
supervised?”
Get a copy of the architectural review or ask the design professional.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 “Is it acceptable to chain open the main supply valve as
prescribed in NFPA 13 and meet the intent of a supervised
system?”
No! The requirements of 101:9.7.2.1 stipulates that the where a supervised
automatic sprinkler system is required by another section of the code, the
supervisory attachments shall be installed and monitored in accordance
with NFPA 72.
 “If my fire alarm system is connected to the building sprinkler
system, is it then automatically required to transmit off site to a
monitoring facility?”
No! Only if other sections of the code require the sprinkler system to be
supervised.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Louisiana Automatic Fire Alarm Western
Region Meeting
Lafayette
9/28/01
Questions and Answers
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
1. NFPA 101 - 9.6.36 (2000) exception no. 1 states areas not subject to
occupancy by persons who are hearing impaired shall not be required to
comply with the provisions for visible signals.
A. Does this mean strobes would only be required in the Lobby/Public
Restrooms of a business occupancy, if none of the employees were hearing
impaired?
 No. When a fire alarm system is required by the 101 Life Safety Code
occupancy chapter, the alarm system notification is required to be
accessible (audible and visual). ADAAG Section 4.28.1 states that at a
minimum, visual signal appliances shall be provided in buildings and
facilities in each of the following areas: restrooms and any other general
usage areas (e.g., meeting rooms), hallways, lobbies, and any other area for
common use. Common use spaces are defined as spaces used by employees
for common use (such as copy and file rooms) and as spaces used by the
public for common use. The ADA requires accessible facilitation in
anticipation of the hiring of disabled persons to prevent discrimination.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
B. If the business has a hearing impaired employee, is only
their work area required to have visual notification, or would
the complete building?
 When a fire alarm system is required by the 101 Life Safety
Code occupancy chapter, the alarm system notification is
required to be accessible (audible and visual) in all common
use spaces throughout the building regardless of whether or
not hearing impaired individuals are employed. Title I of the
ADA addresses the requirements of accommodation for
disabled individuals within individual workspaces.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
C. Does the fact that the system is non-required have any
bearing on questions above?
 Yes, visual notification is not required when the system is a
non-required system. If the fire alarm is a non-required system,
the Fire Marshals Office requires only that the Professional of
Record or the Owner of the facility file a Non-Required Fire
Alarm System Request for Exemption form with this office.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
2. In reading requirements of 13.3.4.1 for assembly occupancies (more than
300), I am confused with wording of 13.3.4.3.2. It states occupant
notification shall be by means of voice announcements, either live or prerecorded, initiated by the person in the constantly attended location.
A.Does this mean automatic voice announcements are not permitted?
 No. Please read further in the section:
13.3.4.3.4 Where the authority having jurisdiction determines that a
constantly attended location is impractical, a fire alarm system in
accordance with Section 9.6 shall be used that meets the following criteria:
(1) It shall be initiated by manual fire alarm boxes in accordance with
9.6.2.1(1) or other approved means.
(2) It shall automatically provide prerecorded evacuation instructions in
accordance with 9.6.3.10.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
B. Doesn’t this conflict with 9.6.3.10 “automatically transmitted
or live voice evacuation” to occupants shall be permitted and
shall be in accordance with NFPA 72?
 No. 101:13.3.4.3.4(2) specifically refers to 101:9.6.3.10.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
3. We talk often about the IRS tax code being overly complex and not
understood by their own employees. I would venture to say the same about
NFPA 101 and 72. Personally, I feel there are too many back and forth
references, between chapters of NFPA 72 and 101 concerning requirements
and exceptions. It is clear to me that the Sprinkler Industry has garnered
numerous exceptions, that would be equally served by an equivalent
exception for an automatic fire alarm system, especially in areas covering
exiting requirements.
A. Why is it assumed that installation of a “supervised sprinkler system” can
be equivalent to enclosed escape routes (38.2.4.2 exception no. 5)? I am of
the understanding your reviewer would not give equivalency to use of an
automatic detection system with off-premise monitoring. (This was an
existing historic structure, being converted to a small museum building.
Sprinklers operate at 165oF, at which time the building would be filled with
smoke.)
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Personally, I would much rather be notified by an early warning smoke
detection system. Can you explain why the Life Safety Code and the AHJ
community feels a sprinkler system in this situation is better life safety than a
fire detection system with early warning smoke detectors?
 NFPA 101:38:2.4.2 Exception No. 5 states the following:
“A single exit shall be permitted for a maximum two-story, singletenant space/building protected throughout by an approved,
supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
9.7 where the total travel to the outside does not exceed 100
feet.”
 Exception No. 5 provides some relief from the requirement that
mandates two separate exits on every story. The exception offers
any single-tenant space in a supervised, automatic sprinklered
building with a maximum of two stories the option of providing
only one exit if the total travel distance to the outside does not
exceed 100 feet.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 Automatic sprinkler systems remain the single most effective
means of controlling fire spread for the widest range of buildings
and areas. It is for this reason that the Code contains numerous
exceptions to requirements based on the equivalency of a
supervised automatic sprinkler system. This equivalency has been
acknowledged through historic fire data, with and without
sprinklered building cases.
 Initially, when a project is submitted to this office for plan review, our
office cites deficiencies based on requirements of the codes
adopted by the state legislature. The initial plan review will allow
equivalencies and exceptions only as specifically published in the
code. Any proposed equivalencies shall be made by the P.O.R. or
the building owner. Such proposals shall be submitted with an
Equivalency Appeal Request Form and $100 review fee. If this
office determines that the equivalency presented meets or exceeds
the code, then a letter will be published granting the equivalency.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
4. State Fire Marshal rules and regulations allow for delegation of
inspection duties to other entities, i.e., City of New Orleans, Baton Rouge
Fire Prevention. Can you elaborate on exactly which of your offices duties
are delegated, and whether or not these agencies are supposed to furnish
inspection of completion projects, in the same manner and professionalism
of your office?
 In accordance with R.S. 40:1563.1(C) Certified Fire Prevention
Bureaus are responsibly for conducting fire inspections within their
local jurisdiction except for facilities requiring State or Federal
Licensure. Facilities requiring State or Federal Licensure are listed
below by occupancy type:
 Health Care (hospital, nursing homes, Limited Care, ambulatory
health care, residential board & care), day care centers, group
homes/residential board&care, physical therapy,
universities/colleges, state owned, state leased, detention, child
family day care home.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
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In addition to the previous slide, upon request from the Certified Fire Prevention
Bureau the State Fire Marshal's Office will conduct inspections in the following
occupancies:
Final Inspections( all types of occupancies), annual inspections of existing schools.
Listed below are the Certified Fire Prevention Bureaus and the type of inspections
conducted for the State Fire Marshal Office:
1) All inspections except Licensed Facilities:
Alexandria F.P/ Baton Rough F.P/ Bossier City F.P/Central F.P. Dist. #4 in
B.R./Lafayette F.P/Lake Charles F.P/Monroe F.P/Pineville F.P/ Shreveport F.P/ St.
Tammany F.P. Dist. #1/ West Monroe F.P
2) All inspections except Licensed Facilities and Final Inspections (all types of
occupancies*)
Bayou Cane F.P/ Harvey F.P Dist.#2/Jefferson Parish F.P-East Bank Consolidated
Dist./ Kenner F.P/ New Iberia F.P./St. Geoge F.P.Dist. in EBR Parish/
*When a Final Inspection is completed Certified Fire Prevention Bureaus conduct
annual inspections except in Licensed Facilities.
3) All other Certified Fire Prevention Bureaus not listed above conduct annual
inspections in existing buildings except in Licensed Facilities and schools.
Beginning July 1, 2001, F.P. Bureaus who conduct F.I. for the Fire Marshal are
suppose to submit the reports to this office. Also, they are suppose to inspect in
accordance with the codes enforced by the SFM Office, however if the local F.P.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
5.Would your office be willing to work with this Association to
develop a matrix of NFPA 101 fire alarm system requirements for
various occupancies? It seems that this would help to indicate the
general requirements for fire alarm systems, of course subject to
final submittal of the specific system to your office for review.
 Sure! Anything to make y’all code savvy!
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
6. Reference 40.3.2 - Please define High Hazard Industrial Occupancy,
operation or process.
 3.3.134.8.2* Occupancy, Industrial, High Hazard.
An industrial occupancy in which industrial operations that include high
hazard materials, processes, or contents are conducted.
 A.3.3.134.8.2 Occupancy, Industrial, High Hazard.
A high hazard occupancy includes occupancies where gasoline and other
flammable liquids are handled, used, or stored under such conditions that
involve possible release of flammable vapors; where grain dust, wood flour
or plastic dusts, aluminum or magnesium dust, or other explosive dusts are
produced; where hazardous chemicals or explosives are manufactured,
stored, or handled; where cotton or other combustible fibers are processed or
handled under conditions that might produce flammable flyings; and where
other situations of similar hazard exist. Chapter 40 and Chapter 42 include
detailed provisions on high hazard occupancy.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
A) Are there any clear-cut indicators your office uses to determine if an
occupancy is a Business Occupancy or an Industrial Occupancy? I see many
projects where the Architectural submittal is done as a Business Occupancy,
when I feel they are really Industrial Occupancies. Most fire alarm companies
will usually follow with using the caption off of the Architectural Plan Review
letter. As you know, there is a lot of difference in requirements for fire alarm
systems between 39:3.4.1 and 40:3.4.1.
 Yes. Please refer to 101:6.1 Classification of Occupancy:
 6.1.11.1* Definition — Business Occupancy.
An occupancy used for account and record keeping or the transaction of
business other than mercantile.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
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A.6.1.11.1 Business Occupancy.
 Business occupancies include the following:
(1) Air traffic control towers (ATCTs)
(2) City halls
(3) College and university instructional buildings, classrooms under 50 persons, and
instructional laboratories
(4) Courthouses
(5) Dentists’ offices
(6) Doctors’ offices
(7) General offices
(8) Outpatient clinics, ambulatory
(9) Town halls
 Doctors’ and dentists’ offices are included, unless of such character as to be classified
as ambulatory health care occupancies as defined in 3.3.8.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 Birth centers occupied by fewer than four patients, not including infants, at
any one time; not providing sleeping facilities for four or more occupants;
and not providing treatment procedures that render four or more patients, not
including infants, incapable of self-preservation at any one time should be
classified as business occupancies. For birth centers occupied by patients not
meeting these parameters, see Chapter 18 or Chapter 19, as appropriate.
 Service facilities common to city office buildings such as newsstands, lunch
counters serving fewer than 50 persons, barber shops, and beauty parlors are
included in the business occupancy group.
 City halls, town halls, and court houses are included in this occupancy group
insofar as their principal function is the transaction of public business and
the keeping of books and records. Insofar as they are used for assembly
purposes, they are classified as assembly occupancies.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 6.1.12.1* Definition — Industrial Occupancy.
An occupancy in which products are manufactured or in which processing,
assembling, mixing, packaging, finishing, decorating, or repair operations
are conducted.
 A.6.1.12.1 Industrial Occupancy.
 Industrial occupancies include the following:
(1) Dry cleaning plants
(2) Factories of all kinds
(3) Food processing plants
(4) Gas plants
(5) Hangars (for servicing/maintenance)
(6) Laundries
(7) Power plants
(8) Pumping stations
(9) Refineries
(10) Sawmills
(11) Telephone exchanges
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
 In evaluating the appropriate classification of laboratories, the
authority having jurisdiction should treat each case individually
based on the extent and nature of the associated hazards. Some
laboratories are classified as occupancies other than industrial;
for example, a physical therapy laboratory or a computer
laboratory.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
B) Paragraph 40:3.2 states every High Hazard Industrial
Occupancy, operation, or process shall have approved supervised
automatic extinguishing system per Section 9.7 and shall operate
per paragraph 40:3.4.3.4 to automatically initiate an occupant
evacuation signal. Can you furnish guidelines for what your
office deems “High Hazard Industrial Occupancy” in accordance
with paragraph 40:1.4.1(c)?
 Please refer to the answer to the first part of this question.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
7. During the Final Inspection for a project we were recently involved in, the
State Fire Marshal Deputy required that the system smoke detectors be
installed adjacent to remote annunciators and remote power supplies. A review
of NFPA 72:1-5.6 only requires these detectors for protection of control
equipment in areas which are not continuously occupied. NFPA 72 defines a
control unit as a system component that monitors inputs and controls outputs
through various types of circuits. Based on a memo from Jerry Jones dated
August 5, 1998, he agrees and states that remote power supplies and remote
input/output devices do not require protection with automatic smoke detectors.
The fire alarm contractor installed the additional six (6) detectors at a cost of
approximately two thousand, five hundred dollars, ($2500.00) to the owner so
that the deputy would not reject him upon re-inspection. The deputy was
advised of the referenced memo but was adamant that it did not apply.
Please clarify exactly what equipment requires protection by smoke detectors.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY

Pursuant to the letter addressed to this association which originally referenced the
1996 edition of NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm Code, Section 1-5.6 Protection of
Control Equipment, defined control equipment as “A system component that
monitors inputs and controls outputs through various types of circuits.”

This office policy specifically requires a smoke detector to protect a fire alarm
control panel if it is not located in a continuously occupied area.

It is NOT the intent of this citation to include the following:
 Booster Panels
 Annuciator Panels
 Externally Mounted DACTs
 Cabinets Storing Secondary Power Supply
 Transponder Panels
 Anything else in a red or beige metallic box that isn’t a fire alarm control
panel!

Mrs. Felicia Cooper, State Fire Marshal Administrator shall be made aware of this
problem.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
8. Currently, the exemption request applications as well as the complete
submittal application do not require a signature from the N.I.C.E.T. Level III
licensed employee when submitted. We have had a situation occur where a
company without a license sent in an exemption request with our company
information and license number. We fortunately became aware of it and
reported it to your office. We believe that all applications should require a
signature.
 Signature of applicant may not relieve this problem. A signature will not
prevent an applicant from listing falsified information on the exemption
request form. A determination from this office concerning the exemption
request will always be mailed to the address of the company listed on the
request form. This agency attempts to verify the correct mailing address
for the company. If this office’s determination is received by a company for
a project which is not to be performed by that company, prompt notification
should be made to this office for proper action.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
9. When a professional of record completes plans for a tenant finish out or a
small project that he assumes will add ten devices or less to an existing
system and marks them on his plans in that manner. What do we do as fire
alarm contractors when we know that the requirements will be greater than
ten but the professional of record, general contractor, or electrical contractor
instructs us to send the exemption request in anyway? If we send the
exemption request to your office your personnel will assume that the project
only needs the devices we put on the exemption request form since there is
not a set of plans attached. This now is left into the state or local fire
marshals hands that inspects the project. The general contractor will show
him an approved exemption request form and explain your office approved
the project addition.
 Call one of the Architectural Supervisors or the Staff Fire Alarm Specialist
and we will handle these situations on a case by case basis. We will try to
work with you within reason.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
10. If an existing building (in this case a school) that already
has a Fire Alarm System is adding a new wing that will require
the addition of more than 10 devices, will the existing section
of the building be required to be brought up to current code?
 If the addition of the school exceeds 50% of the estimated
value of the existing building, then the entire school would be
required to be brought up to current code requirements.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
A) If the existing Fire Alarm System does not have the capacity
to handle the new devices and the FACP has to be replaced,
also requiring existing smoke detectors to be replaced (for
compatibility), would the existing section of the building then
be required to be brought up to current code?
 If the addition of the school exceeds 50% of the estimated
value of the existing building, then the entire school would be
required to be brought up to current code requirements. The
replaced smoke detectors would be required to comply with the
code enforced at the time of original installation, be sure the
owner or P.O.R. provides that documentation with the
submittal.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire
Command Center
Fire alarm circuitry design and installation having the ability
to continue functioning during attack by fire is addressed and
quantified under two “survivability” related sections in both
the 1996 and 1999 editions of NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm
Code Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command
Center Survivability.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
 Will it be acceptable to install notification risers that meet a 2-hour
rating without the use of conduit? (Recognizing that the cable must be
protected to 7 feet above finished floor)
 Will the remote control equipment need to be within a 2-hour area
provided the connected cable assembly meets the 2-hour rating?
 Must the 2-hour space be dedicated to the fire alarm system or can it
be co-located with other electrical, telephone or data cabling?
 Is it acceptable to install remote system nodes and or power supplies in
an approved stairwell provided that the equipment is dedicated to fire
alarm service?
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
 Is a central control station (fire command station) always required in a
high rise building?
 72:3-8.4.1.1.4 (99 edition) states that survivability requirements are
applicable to notification appliance circuits and any other circuits
necessary for the operation of the notification appliance circuitry. How
will this requirement be enforced?
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Survivability Notification Appliance Circuitry and Fire Command Center
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
OFFICE OF STATE FIRE MARSHAL, CODE ENFORCEMENT AND BUILDING SAFETY
Guidelines for Schools
Conducting Self Inspections of
Fire Alarm Systems