FireSmarts 90min AutoSPRINK FS Obstruction Rules Slides PDF

Fire
Sprinkler Placement
Obstruction Rules
© Fire Smarts LLC. All rights reserved.
Instructor
Ralph E. Bless, P.E., SET, CFPS
Vice President, Telgian
Ralph has more than 38 years experience in fire
protection including a broad range of water based
and special hazard system design, code consulting
and fire protection engineering services. Ralph is
licensed as a Professional Engineer in six states, a
Certified Fire Protection Specialist, Level IV NICET
senior fire sprinkler layout technician and holds
three additional NICET certifications, as well as
eight state licenses. Ralph chairs the NFPA technical
committee for Record Storage, NFPA 232, and
serves on the NFPA technical committees for Water
Spray Systems, NFPA 15 as well as the NFPA 13
Installation Technical Committee and Correlating
Committee.
DISCLAIMER
This seminar and its content is not a formal interpretation issued pursuant to
NFPA regulations. Any opinion expressed is the personal opinion of the
author and presenter and does not necessarily present the official position of
the NFPA and its Technical Committees. Furthermore, this presentation is
neither intended, nor should be relied upon, to provide professional
consultation or services.
Obstructions – Big Picture
 Minimize the impact of obstructions on sprinkler

discharge and resultant fire control/suppression.
 Limit operational delay of sprinklers.
 Prevent uncontrolled fires from overwhelming the
fire sprinkler system.
 Prevent excessive numbers of sprinklers opening
during a fire.
Obstructions Big Picture
Two Objective Components
 Basic Requirements.
Sprinklers must be positioned and located so as to
provide satisfactory performance with respect to
activation time and distribution.
1 2
8.1.1(3)
Activation Time
 Ceiling/Roof Construction Impacts Activation Time
 Unobstructed Construction – Do not impede heat flow or
water discharge in a manner that materially affects the
ability of the sprinkler to control/suppress the fire
 Obstructed Construction – Does impede heat flow or
water discharge in a manner that materially affects the
ability of the sprinkler to control/suppress the fire
Activation Time
 Ceiling/Roof Construction Impacts Activation Time
 Differing ceiling/roof construction configurations limit the
allowable sprinkler spacing (As) – Generally More
Obstructed – Lower As
 Differing ceiling/roof construction configurations limit the
allowable distance below the ceiling/roof for the sprinkler
deflector
NFPA 13 – 2013/2016 Edition
Obstruction Rules
NFPA 13 – 2019 Edition
References??
Water Distribution
 Anything Between the Sprinkler Position and the
Fire Location that Interferes with the Distribution of
Water Must Follow the Rules:
 General Rules (8.5)
 Standard Spray Sprinklers
(8.6‐Upright/Pendent 8.7‐Sidewall)
 Extended Coverage Sprinklers
(8.8‐Upright/Pendent 8.9‐Sidewall)
 Residential Sprinklers (8.10)
 CMSA Sprinklers (8.11) Apply the Obstruction Rules from
 ESFR Sprinklers (8.12) Sections 8.5 and 8.6 to 8.12 as
Applicable
Water Distribution
EXCEPT
Not withstanding the obstruction rules provided in Chapter 8, it

is not intended or expected that water will fall on the entire
floor space of the occupancy.
When obstructions or architectural features interfere with the

sprinkler’s spray pattern, such as columns, angled walls, wing
walls, slightly indented walls, and various soffit configurations,
shadowed areas can occur. Where small shadowed areas are
formed on the floor adjacent to their referenced architectural
features, those shadowed areas are purely on paper and do not
take into account the dynamic variables of sprinkler discharge.
A.8.1.1(3)
Shadow Areas
Pendent or Upright
Spr
Shadow Area
Shadow Area
Shadow Areas
Shadow Area Shadow Area
Sidewall Spr
Basic Obstruction Rule
DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE
SPRINKLER
Basic Obstruction Rule
Detailed Obstruction Rule
DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE SPRINKLER IN A
MANNER THAT:
UNACCEPTABLY IMPACTS
CONTROL/SUPPRESSION EFFECTIVENESS
OF THE SPRINKLER
General Obstruction Rules 8.5.5
General Format
 8.5.5.1 Performance Objectives
 8.5.5.2 Obstructions to Discharge Pattern
Development
 8.5.5.3 Prevent Discharge from Reaching the Hazard
(4 ft Rule)
 8.5.6 Clearance (18”/36” Rule)
8.5.5 Obstructions to Sprinkler Discharge
General Two Zone Criteria
1 18” A Beam Rule / Times

Sprinkler Rule
2 B Below Sprinkler Rule
Spray Pattern
Varies With Different
Sprinklers
Spray Pattern
Varies With Applied
Pressure
8.5.5.2 Obstructions to
Sprinkler Discharge Pattern Development
Continuous and noncontinuous obstructions ≤18 in.
below the sprinkler deflector that prevent the
discharge pattern from developing must comply with
8.5.5.2.
1 A Beam Rule / Times Rule
8.5.5.2.1
8.5.5.2 Obstructions to
Sprinkler Discharge Pattern Development
Sprinklers must be positioned in accordance with the minimum
distances and special requirements of Section 8.6 through 8.12
so that they are sufficiently away from obstructions such as truss
webs and chords, pipes, columns and fixtures.
1 A Beam Rule / Times Rule
Also Sends User to 8.6 through 8.12
for Specific Rules – Note: CMSA and ESFR Rules 8.5.5.2.2
extend this depth to 24 to 36 in.
8.5.5.3 Obstructions that Prevent
Discharge from Reaching the Hazard
Continuous or noncontinuous obstructions that interrupt the
water discharge in a horizontal plane more than 18 in. below the
sprinkler deflector in a manner to limit the distribution from
reaching the protected hazard must comply with 8.5.5.3
B
2
8.5.5.3 Provides Some General Rules 8.5.5.3
4 ft Rule
Sprinklers must be installed under fixed obstructions >4 ft in
width.
Be Careful, General Rules of 8.5.5
are Modified for CMSA and ESFR
8.5.5.3.1
4 ft Rule
4 ft Rule
Roof
Wall Wall OK?
Floor
4 ft Rule
Roof
Wall Wall OK?
Floor
4’-2”
4 ft Rule
4 ft Rule
Roof
OK?
Floor
4 ft Rule
Roof
OK?
Floor
Multiple Adjacent Obstructions
Many Small Obstructions on
One Large One?
Only Addressed for ESFR Sprinklers (8.12.6.3.3 in the
2016 Edition) – Must Separate Individual Components
by 3X the Width of the Adjacent Individual
Components OR Consider as a Single Obstruction
Exceptions:
 Sprinkler are not be required under noncombustible
obstructions >4 ft wide where the bottom of the obstruction
is ≤24 in. above the floor or deck. (New to the 2016 Edition,
8.5.5.3.1.4)
 Sprinklers are not required under obstructions that are not
fixed in place, such as conference tables.
8.5.5.3.2
4 ft Rule
Is this an obstruction that needs sprinklers
beneath it?
Obstructions that Prevent Discharge from
Reaching the Hazard
Is this something that needs
sprinklers in it?
Open Grid Ceiling
 ≥1/4” openings in least dimension
 Depth of material ≤ the least dimension
 70% open
 Light Hazard Clearance
 ≤10 ft x 10 ft Clearance of ≥18 in.
 ≤10 ft x 12 ft Clearance of ≥ 24 in.
 >10 ft x 12 ft Clearance of ≥ 36 in.
 Ordinary Hazard Clearance
 ≤10 ft x 10 ft Clearance of ≥24 in.
 >10 ft x 10 ft Clearance of ≥36 in.
8.15.14
Drop Out Ceiling
 Listed
 Not allowed beneath QR or EC sprinklers
unless specifically Listed for such
application
8.15.15
In‐Rack Exception
Exceptions:
Obstructions to In‐Rack Sprinkler Discharge – In‐rack sprinklers
are not be required to meet the obstructions criteria and
clearance from storage requirements of 8.5.
In‐rack sprinklers do have requirements for distance above
storage, below beam and spacing from the support upright in
the storage criteria Chapters
8.13.5
Small Closet/Compartment Exception
Exceptions:
Closets – In all closets and
compartments, including those
closets housing mechanical
equipment, that are not larger than
400 ft3 in size, a single sprinkler at
the highest ceiling level is sufficient
without regard to obstructions or
minimum distance to the wall.
8.5.5.4
HVLS Fans
HVLS fans permitted and not be considered an obstruction if:
 ≤24 ft diameter
 Hub centered approximately between 4 sprinklers
 Vertical clearance of ≥3 ft
 Fans interlocked to shutdown within 90 sec of water flow
11.1.7/12.1.4.1
Sprinkler Frame Arms
Upright sprinklers must have their frame arms installed

parallel to the branch line unless specifically listed for
another orientation
Intended to minimize the obstruction to the discharge

pattern
8.3.1.3
Head Guards
Guards utilized to protection sprinklers from
mechanical injury must be listed for use with the
sprinkler
6.2.8
General Clearance to
Storage Rules
Clearance Req’d from the Top of Storage to the Sprinkler
Deflector
 ≥18 in.
 Greater clearance when required by another Standard
 ≥36 in. for Special Sprinklers (CMSA/ESFR)
 <18 in. if proven by large‐scale fire test
 ≥36 in. for Rubber Tire Storage
8.5.6
SSU/SSP&ECU/ECP Obstruction Rules
8.6.5/8.8.5 General Format
 8.6.5.1/8.8.5.1 Performance Objectives (Beam/Soffit Rules)
 8.6.5.2/8.8.5.2 Impaired Discharge Pattern Development
(3X/4X) and Suspended/Floor Mounted Obstruction Rules)
 8.6.5.3/8.8.5.3 Prevent Discharge from Reaching the Hazard
(4 ft Rule)
 8.6.6/8.8.6 Clearance (18” Rule)
8.6.5.1 – SSU/SSP Beam Rule
Ceiling
B
Obstruction
8.6.5.1.2(1)
Figure 8.6.5.1.2(a) and Table 8.6.5.1.2
100% 90% 70% 50% 70% 90% 100%
% of Flow
8.8.5.1 – ECU/ECP Beam Rule
Ceiling
B
Obstruction
8.8.5.1.2(1)
Figure 8.8.5.1.2(a) and Table 8.8.5.1.2
80
70
30 40 50 60
Pressure
Driven Flow
Ceiling
Obstruction
≤ 4 ft
≤1/2 S ≤1/2 S
CL
8.6.5.1.2(2)
8.8.5.1.2(2)
8.6.5.1 – SSU/SSP Soffit Rule
8.8.5.1 – ECU/ECP Soffit Rule
Soffit
Obstruction
Ceiling
A D A D 8 in. B
D 30 in.
8.6.5.1.2(3)
Wall
Figure 8.6.5.1.2(b)
8.8.5.1.2(3)
Figure 8.8.5.1.2(b)
8.6.5.1 – SSU/SSP Soffit Rule
8.8.5.1 – ECU/ECP Soffit Rule
Soffit
Obstruction
Ceiling
≤24 in.
≤1/2 S
Wall
½ of 4 ft Rule
8.6.5.1.2(4)
Figure 8.6.5.1.2(c)
8.8.5.1.2(4)
Figure 8.8.5.1.2(c)
8.6.5.2 – SSP/SSU 3X Rule
Ceiling
Open Web Steel or A 3C or 3D

Wood Truss
A Use Greater of C or D
≤18 in.
Max. Required A 24 in.
C
8.6.5.2.1.3
Figure 8.6.5.2.1.3(b)
8.8.5.2 – ECP/ECU 4X Rule
Ceiling
Open Web Steel or A 4C or 4D

Wood Truss
A
≤18 in.
Use Greater of C or D
Max. Required A 36 in.
C
NOTE:
EC Sprinklers Are Only Permitted With Truss/Bar 8.8.5.2.1.3
Joist That Have Web Members ≤1 in. Unless Figure 8.8.5.2.1.3(b)
Truss/Bar Joist Are Spaced >7½ ft O/C – 8.4.3(3)
Vertical Obstruction
A 3C or 3D
Sprinkler
C Use Greater of C or D
No Max. for A
D A
8.6.5.2.1.3
Figure 8.6.5.2.1.3(a)
Vertical Obstruction
A 4C or 4D
Sprinkler
C Use Greater of C or D
No Max. for A
D A
8.8.5.2.1.3
Figure 8.8.5.2.1.3(a)
Ceiling
Open Web Steel or

Wood Truss C
A
A 3C or 3D
Don’t Forget to Check the
Use Greater of C or D Web Member
8.6.5.2.1.3
Figure 8.6.5.2.1.3(B)
Ceiling
Open Web Steel or

Wood Truss C
A
A 4C or 4D
Don’t Forget to Check the
Use Greater of C or D Web Member
8.8.5.2.1.3
Figure 8.8.5.2.1.3
The rules of known as the “Three/Four Times Rule” have been
written to apply to obstructions where the sprinkler can be
expected to get water to both sides of the obstruction without
allowing a significant dry shadow on the other side of the
obstruction. This works for small non‐continuous obstructions
and for continuous obstructions where the sprinkler can throw
water over and under the obstruction, such as the bottom chord
of an open truss or joist. …
A.8.6.5.2.1.3
A.8.8.5.2.1.3
Exceptions to SSP/SSU 3X Rule
For light and ordinary hazard occupancies, structural
members only are required to be considered when
applying the requirements of 8.6.5.2.1.3.
Allowance Not Included For Any Other
Sprinkler Types
8.6.5.2.1.4
Exceptions to SSP/SSU 3X Rule
The intent of 8.6.5.2.1.4 to exempt nonstructural
elements in LH and OH occupancies from the
obstruction criteria commonly known as the “Three
Times Rule”. However, the other obstruction rules,
including the “Beam Rule” (8.6.5.1.2) and “Wide
Obstruction Rule” (8.6.5.3.3) still apply. If the
obstruction is so close to a sprinkler that water cannot
spray on both sides, it is effectively a continuous
obstruction as far as the sprinkler is concerned and the
Beam Rule should be applied.
A.8.6.5.2.1.4
Exceptions to
SSP/SSU 3X&ECU/ECP 4X Rules
Open Web Steel or
Wood Truss
Ceiling
≤1/2 S ≤1/2 S
CL
8.6.5.2.1.5
8.8.5.2.1.4
Exceptions to
SSP/SSU 3X&ECU/ECP 4X Rules
Y ≥24 in.
Ceiling O/C
X ≥20 in.
apart
X/2
CL Open Truss with ≤4 in.
Member Dimensions
Typical 2x4 Truss
8.6.5.2.1.6
8.8.5.2.1.5
Exceptions to
SSP/SSU 3X 4X Rules
Open Truss/Bar Joist
Ceiling
≥6 in. C
D
CL A 3C or 3D
≤8 in.
8.6.5.2.1.7
Exceptions to
ECU/ECP 4X Rules
Open Truss/Bar Joist
Ceiling
≥6 in. C
D
CL A 4C or 4D
≤8 in.
8.8.5.2.1.6
Exceptions to
SSU 3X & ECU 4X Rules
The 3X and 4X rules do not apply to sprinkler system
piping less than 3 in. in diameter
Upright
≤3 in. (nominal) Pendent
≤3 in. (nominal)
8.6.5.2.1.8
8.8.5.2.1.7
SSU Sprig Length
What is the required sprig length needed?
Apply 3X Rule: Apply Bottom Chord of Truss
3 x 4 in. = 12 in. Rule = 6 in.
Apply 3X Rule:
?
3 x 4.5 in. = 13.5 in.
4 in Pipe
Exceptions to
SSP/SSU 3X ECU/ECP 4X Rules
The 3X and 4X rules do not apply to sprinklers
positioned with respect to obstructions in accordance
with 8.6.5.1.2/8.8.5.1.2 (Beam/Soffit Rule).
Acceptable if Arrangement Complies with
the Beam/Soffit Rules
8.6.5.2.1.9
8.8.5.2.1.8
Exceptions to
SSP/SSU 3X ECU/ECP 4X Rules
Sprinklers are permitted to be placed without regard to
blades of ceiling fans less than 60 in. in diameter,
provided the plane view of the fan is at least 50% open.
8.6.5.2.1.10
8.8.5.2.1.9
SSP/SSU&ECU/ECP Suspended or Floor
Mounted Vertical Obstructions
Ceiling
B
A
Applies Only to Light
Hazard Occupancies
Floor
Freestanding Obstruction –
Privacy Curtains, Freestanding
Partitions, Room Dividers, Etc.
8.6.5.2.2
Figure 8.6.5.2.2, Table 8.6.5.2.2
8.8.5.2.2
Figure 8.8.5.2.2, Table 8.8.5.2.2
SSP/SSU&ECU/ECP Suspended or
Floor Mounted Vertical Obstructions
≥70% Open Mesh
Ceiling
?
≥22 in.
Applies Only to Light

Hazard Occupancies –
Intended for Hospitals
Floor
Suspended Obstruction –
Privacy Curtains, Freestanding
Partitions, Room Dividers, Etc.
8.6.5.2.2.1
Figure 8.6.5.2.2
8.8.5.2.2.1
Figure 8.8.5.2.2
SSP/SSU & EC Obstructions that Prevent
4 ft Rule
Roof
>18 in.
≤4 ft
Floor
The Same As General
Rules in 8.5.5.3
8.6.5.3
8.8.5.3
SSU/SSP & ECU/ECP
Clearance to Storage Rules
Use General Rules +
 Storage on shelves against a wall can extend to <18
in. below the deflector provided the sprinkler is not
directly above the storage
 The allowance for application of such with EC
sprinklers is through reference back to 8.6.6.2 in
A.8.8.6.
8.6.6
8.8.6
Shelf Storage Against a Wall
<18 in. Clearance
≤1/2 S Roof
Roof
Storage
Shelf Storage Against the Wall
Against the Wall
Floor
Floor ?
≤30” – Shelf Storage Definition?
SSW/ECSW Obstruction Rules 8.7.5/8.9.5
General Format
 8.7.5.1/8.9.5.1 Performance Objectives (Beam/Soffit
Rules)
 8.7.5.2/8.9.5.2 Impaired Discharge Pattern Development
(3X/4X and Suspended/Floor Mounted Obstruction Rules)
 8.7.5.3/8.9.5.3 Prevent Discharge from Reaching the
Hazard (4 ft Rule)
 8.7.6/8.9.6 Clearance (18” Rule)
Rules Are the Similar to Upright and
Pendent Sprinklers – In the Interest of
Time We’ll Only Look at a Few Items
SSW Clearance to Storage Rules
Use General Rules +
 Storage on shelves against a wall can extend to <18
in. below the deflector provided the sprinkler is not
directly above the storage through reference back to
8.6.6.2 in A.8.7.6
 No specific rules in 8.9 for ECSW for clearance
8.7.6
Residential Obstruction Rules 8.10.6
General Format
 8.10.6.1 Performance Objectives (Beam/Soffit Rules)
 8.10.6.2 Impaired Discharge Pattern Development (4X
Rules Are the Same As Indicated for EC
and Suspended/Floor Mounted Obstruction Rules)
Upright, Pendent and Sidewall Sprinklers
 8.10.6.3 Prevent Discharge from Reaching the Hazard
(4 ft Rule) Additionally, Always Check the
Manufactures Installation Guide and Listing
 No Storage Clearance Rules
Criteria
CMSA Obstruction Rules 8.11.5
General Format
 8.11.5.1 Performance Objectives (Beam Rules)
 8.11.5.2 Impaired Discharge Pattern Development (3X
Rule)
8.11.1.1 Indicates that the Manufacturer’s
 8.11.5.3 Prevent Discharge from Reaching the Hazard
Installation Instructions are to be used if different
(4 ft Rule) than Section 8.11.
 8.11.6 Clearance (36” Rule)

Some may indicate the use of ESFR Rules
8.11.5.1 – CMSA Beam Rule
Ceiling
B
Obstruction
8.11.5.1.2
Figure 8.11.5.1.2 and
Table 8.11.5.1.2
CMSA Obstructions that Prevent
(>2 ft Rule)
Cannot Extend Above
Sprinkler
Roof
B
Obstruction Entirely
Below Sprinkler
A >24 in.
Since B is Measured to the Bottom of the
Obstruction and It Can’t Extend Above the
Sprinkler B=Max. Obstruction Depth As Well
8.11.5.3.2 and
Figure 8.11.5.3.2
CMSA Obstructions that Prevent Sprinkler
(>2 ft Rule)
Comparison to Beam Rule
Ceiling
8” 6”
35” 35”
How Can This Be RIGHT?
Roof
(2 ft Rule)
≤24 in.
>24 in.
≤12 in.
>18 in.
½S ½S
CL
Storage
8.11.5.3.4 and
Figure 8.11.5.3.4
(1 ft Rule)
Roof
≥36 in. ≥36 in.
≤6 in.
CL
≤12 in. ≤12 in.
8.11.5.3.5 and
Figure 8.11.5.3.5
CMSA Obstructions that Prevent
(1 ft & 2 ft Rules)
Roof
24
24 in.
C
L
36 in.
12 12
CL
8.11.6 CMSA Clearance
to Storage Rules
Use General Rules +
 The clearance between the deflector and the top of
storage must be 36 in. or greater.
8.11.6
ESFR Obstruction Rules 8.12.5
General Format
 8.12.5.1 Obstructions at or Near Ceiling (Beam Rule)
 8.12.5.2 Isolated Obstructions Below Sprinklers
 8.12.5.3 Continuous Obstruction Below Sprinklers
 8.12.6 Clearance (36” Rule)
8.12.5.1.3, 8.12.5.2(5) and 8.12.5.3.6 all indicate
that special obstruction rules are to be applied in
accordance with the listing of the sprinkler which
may be different than 8.12.5
8.12.5.1 – ESFR Beam Rule
Ceiling
B
Obstruction
8.12.5.1.1
Figure 8.12.5.1.1 and
Table 8.12.5.1.1
Continuous vs Noncontinuous
Obstructions
 Continuous Obstructions An obstruction at or below
the level of the sprinkler deflector that affects the
discharge pattern of two or more sprinklers.
 Noncontinuous Obstructions An obstruction at or
below the level of the sprinkler deflector that affects
the discharge pattern of a single sprinkler.
3.3.18.1
3.3.18.2
8.12.5.2 – ESFR Isolated Obstructions
Below Sprinkler
Cannot Extend Above
Sprinkler
Roof
≥12” ≤24”
8.12.5.2(2)
ESFR Isolated/Continuous Obstructions
Below Sprinklers
Roof
≥24 in.
≤2 in.
8.12.5.2(4)
8.12.5.3(2)
8.12.5.3.2 – ESFR Bottom Chord of Bar
Joist/Truss Rule
Ceiling
Open Web Steel or

Wood Truss
≥12”
Does not apply for Upright
ESFR where directly over the
bottom chord that is ≤4 in. 8.12.5.3.2
8.12.6 ESFR Clearance to Storage Rules
Use General Rules +
 Clearance to Storage. (ESFR Sprinklers) The clearance
between the deflector and the top of storage shall be
36 in. or greater.
8.12.6
Example
24” Wide Light Fixture
Clearly Less than 24 in.
Non Compliant
6” from Spr to Light Fixture
Example
The position of the sprinkler w/respect
to the obstruction
AND
The positon of the protected materials
w/respect to the obstruction
BOTH MATTER
Another Example
The position of the sprinkler w/respect to
the obstruction
AND
The positon of the protected materials
w/respect to the obstruction
AND
The arrangement and type of protected
materials
IT ALL MATTERS
Conclusion
Questions and Comments

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Fire

 Minimize the impact of obstructions on sprinkler

Not withstanding the obstruction rules provided in Chapter 8, it

When obstructions or architectural features interfere with the

Shadow Area Shadow Area

1 18” A Beam Rule / Times

2 B Below Sprinkler Rule

1 A Beam Rule / Times Rule

Wall Wall OK?

Wall Wall OK?

Upright sprinklers must have their frame arms installed

Intended to minimize the obstruction to the discharge

100% 90% 70% 50% 70% 90% 100%

Open Web Steel or A 3C or 3D

Open Web Steel or A 4C or 4D

Open Web Steel or

Open Web Steel or

≤3 in. (nominal) Pendent

Applies Only to Light

 8.11.6 Clearance (36” Rule)

≥36 in. ≥36 in.

≤12 in. ≤12 in.

Open Web Steel or

6” from Spr to Light Fixture

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