904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.
904.3.1 Electrical wiring. Electrical wiring shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code. \ \
904.3.2 Actuation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.11.1.
904.3.3 System interlocking. 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.
904.3.4 Alarms and warning signs. Where alarms are required to indicate the operation of automatic fire-extinguishing systems, distinctive audible, 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 907.6.2.
904.3.5 Monitoring. Where a building fire alarm system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72.
904.4 Inspection and testing. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the provisions of this section prior to acceptance.
904.4.1 Inspection. Prior to conducting final acceptance tests, the following items shall be inspected:
1. Hazard specification for consistency with design hazard.
2. Type, location and spacing of automatic- and manual-initiating devices.
3. Size, placement and position of nozzles or discharge orifices.
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4. Location and identification of audible and visible alarm devices.
5. Identification of devices with proper designations.
6. Operating instructions.
904.4.2 Alarm testing. Notification appliances, connections to fire alarm systems, and connections to approved supervising stations shall be tested in accordance with this section and Section 907 to verify proper operation.
904.4.2.1 Audible and visible signals. The audibility and visibility of notification appliances signaling agent discharge or system operation, where required, shall be verified.
904.4.3 Monitor testing. 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.
904.5 Wet-chemical systems. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations,
I I Title 19, Division 1\ Chapter 5 andNFFA 17A and their listing.
904.5.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 6-month intervals. Tests shall include a check of the detection system, alarms and releasing devices, including manual stations and other associated equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pressure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure. The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer.
904.5.2 Fusible link maintenance. Fixed temperature-sensing elements shall be maintained to ensure proper operation of the system.
904.6 Dry-chemical systems. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations,
I I Title 19, Division 7, Chapter 5 and NFPA17A and their listing.
904.6.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 6-month intervals. Tests shall include a check of the detection system, alarms and releasing devices, including manual stations and other associated equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed, and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pressure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure. The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer.
904.6.2 Fusible link maintenance. Fixed temperature-sensing elements shall be maintained to ensure proper operation of the system.
904.7 Foam systems. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, NFPA 11 and NFPA 16 and their listing.
904.7.1 System test. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested at intervals in accordance with Califor-I I nia Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5,
904.8 Carbon dioxide systems. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 1 9, Division 1, Chapter 5 and NFPA 12 and their listing. | |
904.8.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.8.2 High-pressure cylinders. High-pressure cylinders shall be weighed and the date of the last hydrostatic test shall be verified at 6-month intervals. Where a container shows a loss in original content of more than 10 percent, the cylinder shall be refilled or replaced.
904.8.3 Low-pressure containers. The liquid-level gauges of low-pressure containers shall be observed at one-week intervals. Where a container shows a content loss of more than 10 percent, the container shall be refilled to maintain the minimum gas requirements.
904.8.4 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at 12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be replaced or tested. At five-year intervals, all hoses shall be tested.
904.8.4.1 Test procedure. Hoses shall be tested at not less than 2,500 pounds per square inch (psi) (17 238 kPa) for high-pressure systems and at not less than 900 psi (6206 kPa) for low-pressure systems.
904.8.5 Auxiliary equipment. Auxiliary and supplementary components, such as switches, door and window releases, interconnected valves, damper releases and supplementary alarms, shall be manually operated at 12-month intervals to ensure that such components are in proper operating condition.
904.9 Halon systems. Halogenated extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 and NFPA 12A and their listing.
904.9.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.9.2 Containers. The extinguishing agent quantity and pressure of containers shall be checked at 6-month intervals. Where a container shows a loss in original weight of more than 5 percent or a loss in original pressure (adjusted for temperature) of more than 10 percent, the container shall be refilled or replaced. The weight and pressure of the container shall be recorded on a tag attached to the container.
904.9.3 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at 12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be replaced or tested. At 5-year intervals, all hoses shall be tested.
904.9.3.1 Test procedure. For Halon 1301 systems, hoses shall be tested at not less than 1,500 psi (10 343 kPa) for 600 psi (4137 kPa) charging pressure systems and not less than 900 psi (6206 kPa) for 360 psi (2482 kPa) charging pressure systems. For Halon 1211 hand-hose line systems, hoses shall be tested at 2,500 psi (17 238 kPa) for high-pressure systems and 900 psi (6206 kPa) for low-pressure systems.
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904.9.4 Auxiliary equipment. Auxiliary and supplementary components, such as switches, door and window releases, interconnected valves, damper releases and supplementary alarms, shall be manually operated at 12-month intervals to ensure such components are in proper operating condition.
904.10 Clean-agent systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations,
I I Title 19, Division h Chapter 5 and NFPA 2001 and their listing.
904.10.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.10.2 Containers. The extinguishing agent quantity and pressure of the containers shall be checked at 6-month intervals. Where a container shows a loss in original weight of more than 5 percent or a loss in original pressure, adjusted for temperature, of more than 10 percent, the container shall be refilled or replaced. The weight and pressure of the container shall be recorded on a tag attached to the container.
904.10.3 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at 12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be replaced or tested. All hoses shall be tested at 5-year intervals.
904.11 Commercial cooking systems. Commercial cooking equipment that produce grease laden vapors shall be provided with a Type I Hood, in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, and an automatic fire extinguishing system that is listed and labeled for its intended use as follows:
1. Wet chemical extinguishing system, complying with UL 300
2. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems
3. Automatic fire sprinkler systems
All existing dry chemical and wet chemical extinguishing > systems shall comply with UL 300,
Exception: Public schools kitchens, without deep-fat fryers, shall be upgraded to a UL 300 compliant system during statefunded modernization projects that are under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect.
All systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, appropriate adopted standards, their listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested, listed, labeled and installed in accordance with UL 710B.
904.11.1 Manual system operation. A manual actuation device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the cooking area a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) and a maximum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaust system. The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than 48 inches (1200 mm) nor less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the floor and shall clearly identify the hazard protected. The manual actuation shall require a maximum force of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximum movement of 14 inches (356 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be required to be equipped with manual actuation means.
904.11.2 System interconnection. The actuation of the fire extinguishing system shall automatically shut down the fuel or electrical power supply to the cooking equipment. The fuel and electrical supply reset shall be manual.
904.11.3 Carbon dioxide systems. When carbon dioxide systems are used, there shall be a nozzle at the top of the ventilating duct. Additional nozzles that are symmetrically arranged to give uniform distribution shall be installed within vertical ducts exceeding 20 feet (6096 mm) and horizontal ducts exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Dampers shall be installed at either the top or the bottom of the duct and shall be arranged to operate automatically upon activation of the fire-extinguishing system. When the damper is installed at the top of the duct, the top nozzle shall be immediately below the damper. Automatic carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems shall be sufficiently sized to protect all hazards venting through a common duct simultaneously.
904.11.3.1 Ventilation system. Commercial-type cooking equipment protected by an automatic carbon dioxide extinguishing system shall be arranged to shut off the ventilation system upon activation.
904.11.4 Special provisions for automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting commercial-type cooking equipment shall be supplied from a separate, readily accessible, indicating-type control valve that is identified.
904.11.4.1 Listed sprinklers. Sprinklers used for the protection of fryers shall be tested in accordance with UL 199E, listed for that application and installed in accordance with their Usting.
904.11.5 Portable fire extinguishers for commercial cooking equipment. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3.
[California Code ofRegulationSy Title 19, Division i, §573(a) through (c)] Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Commercial Cooking Operations,
(a) Fire extinguishers with a Class K rating shall be provided for hazards where there is a potential for fires involving combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils andfats).
(b) Maximum travel distance shall not exceed 30 feet (9.15 m)from the hazard to the extinguishers.
(c) Additional fire extinguishers, required for the control of other classes of fires, shall be provided for commercial cooking areas as required by California Code of Regulations Title 19, Division 1, Section 567.
904.11.5.1 Portable fire extinguishers for solid fuel cooking appliances. All solid fuel cooking appliances, whether or not under a hood, with fireboxes 5 cubic feet (0.14 m^) or less in volume shall have a minimum 2.5-gallon (9 L) or two L5-gallon (6 L) Class K wet-
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chemical portable fire extinguishers located in accordance with Section 904.11.5.
904.11.5.2 Class K portable fire extinguishers for deep fat fryers. When hazard areas include deep fat fryers, listed Class K portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division I, Chapter 3 and as follows:
1. For up to four fryers having a maximum cooking medium capacity of 80 pounds (36.3 kg) each: One Class K portable fire extinguisher of a minimum 1.5 gallon (6 L) capacity.
2. For every additional group of four fryers having a maximum cooking medium capacity of 80 pounds (36.3 kg) each: One additional Class K portable fire extinguisher of a minimum 1.5 gallon (6 L) capacity shall be provided.
3. For individual fryers exceeding 6 square feet (0.55 m^) in surface area: Class K portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in accordance with the extinguisher manufacturer's recommendations.
904.11.6 Operations and maintenance. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems protecting commercial cooking systems shall be maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 and this section.
904.11.6.1 Existing automatic fire-extinguishing systems. Where changes in the cooking media, positioning of cooking equipment or replacement of cooking equipment occur in existing commercial cooking systems, the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be required to comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 904.11 through 904.11.4.
904.11.6.2 Extinguishing system service. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be serviced at least every 6 months and after activation of the system. Inspection shall be by qualified individuals, and a certificate of inspection shall be forwarded to the fire code official upon completion.
904.11.6.3 Fusible link and sprinkler head replacement. Fusible links and automatic sprinkler heads shall be replaced at least annually, and other protection devices shall be serviced or replaced in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Exception: Frangible bulbs are not required to be replaced annually.
SECTION 905 STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
905.1 General. Standpipe systems shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with this section. Fire hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall be approved and shall be compatible with fire department hose threads. The location of fire department hose connections shall be approved. In buildings used for high-piled com-
bustible storage, fire protection shall be in accordance with Chapter 23.
905.2 Installation standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14 a^ I amended in Chapter 47. I
905.3 Required installations. Standpipe systems shall be installed where required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.10.1 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.
Excepttion: Standpipe systems are not required in Group R-3 occupancies.
905.3.1 Height. In other than Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies, Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout at each floor where any of the following occur:
1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
2. Buildings that are four or more stories in height.
3. Buildings where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.
4. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 II standpipes in accordance with Section 905.5.
4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
5. In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider:
5.1. Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less, and
5.2. Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.
905.3.2 Group A. Class I automatic wet standpipes shall be provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons.
Exceptions:
1. Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces.
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2. 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 75 feet (22 860 nun) or less above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
905.3.3 Covered mall buildings. A covered mall building shall be equipped throughout with a standpipe system where required by Section 905.3.1. Covered mall buildings not required to be equipped with a standpipe system by Section 905.3.1 shall be equipped with Class I hose connections connected to the automatic sprinkler system sized to deliver water at 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/min) at the most hydraulically remote hose connection while concurrently supplying the automatic sprinkler system demand. The standpipe system shall be designed not to exceed a 50-pounds-per-square-inch (345 kPa) residual pressure loss with a flow of 250 gallons per minute (946.4 L/min) from the fire department connection to the hydraulically most remote hose connection. Hose connections shall be provided at each of the following locations:
1. Within the mall at the entrance to each exit passageway or corridor.
2. At each floor-level landing within enclosed stairways opening directly on the mall.
3. At exterior public entrances to the mall.
4. At other locations as necessary so that the distance to reach all portions of a tenant space does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 nrni) from a hose connection.
905.3.4 Stages. Stages greater than 1,000 square feet (93 m^) in area shall be equipped with a Class III wet standpipe system with IVs-inch and 2V2-inch (38 mm and 64 mm) hose connections on each side of the stage.
Exception: Where the building or area is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, a IV2 inch (38 mm) hose connection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13 or in accordance with NFPA 14 for Class II or III standpipes.
905.3.4.1 Hose and cabinet. The 1 Vj-inch (38 mm) hose connections shall be equipped with sufficient lengths of 1 V2-inch (38 mm) hose to provide fire protection for the stage area. Hose connections shall be equipped with an approved adjustable fog nozzle and be mounted in a cabinet or on a rack.
905.3.5 Underground buildings. Underground buildings shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipe system.
905.3.6 Helistops and heliports. 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 Section 1107.5.
905.3.7 Marinas and boatyards. Standpipes in marinas and boatyards shall comply with Chapter 45.
905.3.8 Smokeproof enclosures. For smokeproof enclosures see California Building Code, Section 909.20.
9053,9 Group 1-3, Housing units within cell complexes where 50 or more inmates are restrained^ shall be provided with Class I wet standpipes. In addition, Class I wet standpipes shall be located so that it will not be necessary to extend hose lines through interlocking security doors and any doors in smoke-barrier walls, horizontal fire walls or fire barrier walls. Standpipes located in cell complexes may be placed in secured pipe chases.
905.3,10 Fixed guideway transit systems. Underground stations shall be provided with a class III standpipe system designed to comply with the following:
1. Automatically supply 65pounds per square inch (psi) for each outlet.
2. Supply a 250 gpm (946 Umjflow to each of the two most remote 2^/2 inch (64 mm) outlets when pressurized through the fire department connection(s).
905,3,10.1 All other stations shall be provided with a class I manual wet standpipe system; a manual dry class I standpipe system may be allowed in areas subject to freezing.
Exception: Open at-grade stations with unrestricted fire department access need not be provided with a standpipe system.
905.4 Location of Class I standpipe hose connections.
Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
1. In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate floor level landing between floors, unless otherwise approved by the/z re code official. See Section 909.20.2.3 of the California Building Code for additional provisions in smokeproof enclosures.
2. 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 nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose as measured along the path of travel, a hose connec- | | tion shall not be required at the horizontal exit.
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to 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.
4. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior public entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall.
5. Where the roof has a slope 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 a stairway with
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Stair access to the roof. An additional hose connection shall be provided at the top of the most hydraulically remote standpipe for testing purposes.
6. Where the most remote portion of a nonsprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered
I I floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a
hose connection, the fire code official is authorized to require that additional hose connections be provided in
I approved locations. The distances from a hose connec-
tion shall be measured along the path of travel.
905.4.1 Protection. 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.
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 within fire-resistance-rated construction.
905.4.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
905.5 Location of Class n standpipe hose connections. Class n standpipe hose connections shall be accessible and shall be located so that all portions of the building are within 30 feet
II (9144 mm) of a listed variable stream fog nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose.
905.5.1 Groups A-1 and A-2. In Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies with occupant loads of more than 1,000, hose connections shall be located on each side of any stage, on each side of the rear of the auditorium, on each side of the balcony, and on each tier of dressing rooms.
905.5.2 Protection. Fire-resistance-rated protection of risers and laterals of Class II standpipe systems is not required.
905.5.3 Class II system 1-inch hose. A minimum 1-inch (25 mm) hose shall be allowed to be used for hose stations in light-hazard occupancies where investigated and listed for this service and where approved by ihtfire code official.
905.6 Location of Class III standpipe hose connections. Class ni standpipe systems shall have hose connections located as required for Class I standpipes in Section 905.4 and shall have Class II hose connections as required in Section 905.5.
905.6.1 Protection. Risers and laterals of Class HI standpipe systems shall be protected as required for Class I systems in accordance with Section 905.4.1.
905.6.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one Class III standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
905.7 Cabinets. Cabinets containing fire-fighting equipment, such as standpipes, fire hose, fire extinguishers or fire department valves, shall not be blocked from use or obscured from view.
905.7,1 Cabinet equipment identification. Cabinets shall be identified in an approved manner by a permanently
attached sign with letters not less than 2 inches (51 nam) high in a color that contrasts with the background color, indicating the equipment contained therein.
Exceptions:
1. Doors not large enough to accommodate a written sign shall be marked with a permanently attached pictogram of the equipment contained therein.
2. Doors that have either an approved visual identification clear glass panel or a complete glass door panel are not required to be marked.
905.7.2 Locking cabinet doors. Cabinets shall be unlocked.
Exceptions:
1. Visual identification panels of glass or other approved transparent frangible material that is easily broken and allows access.
2. Approved locking arrangements.
3. Group 1-3 occupancies.
905.8 Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14.
905.9 Valve supervision. 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 supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the control unit.
Exceptions:
1 . Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility do not require supervision.
2. Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system.
905.10 During construction. Standpipe systems required during construction and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 1413.
905.11 Existing buildings. Where required in Chapter 46, existing structures shall be equipped with standpipes installed in accordance with Section 905.
SECTION 906 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in the following locations.
1. In new and existing Group A, B, E, F, H, I, L, M, R-1, R-2, R-2,l R-3.1 R-4 and S occupancies.
2. Within 30 feet (9144 mm) of commercial cooking equipment.
3. In areas where flammable or combustible liquids are stored, used or dispensed.
"#
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4. On each floor of structures under construction, except Group R-3 occupancies, in accordance with Section 1415.1.
5. Where required by the sections indicated in Table 906.1.
6. Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to laboratories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where required by the fire code official.
1. Large and small family day-care homes shall be equipped with a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum 2A10BC rating.
8. Where required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3,29 (a) through (d)] Portable Fire Extinguishing Equipment
(a) General. Portable fire extinguishers conforming to the requirements of California Code of Regulations Title 19, Division I, Chapter 3, shall be installed and maintained in accordance with guides established therein,
(b) Special Coverage. Additional Class A, B and C units of adequate extinguishing potential shall be provided for any other hazard as determined by the enforcing agency.
(c) Group A occupancies.
(1) One additional Class 2-A unit shall be provided in Group A Occupancies as follows:
(A) On each side of the stage or platform.
Exception: Platforms 1000 square feet (93 rri) or less in area need have only one such extinguishing unit.
(B) On each side of every fiy gallery.
(C) In basements beneath the stage or platform.
(D) In every hallway or passageway leading to a dressing room.
(E) In every property room, carpenter shop or similar workroom.
(2) Not less than one 10-B: C unit (not less than 4~B:C for existing extinguishers in existing occupancies) shall be provided:
(A) For each motor and fan room.
(B) Adjacent to each switchboard on the stage or platform.
(C) For each motion picture machine in projection rooms.
Exception: One 20~B:C unit (not less than 8-B:C for existing extinguishers in existing occupancies) in each projection room may be accepted as providing substantially equal protection,
(3) The enforcing agency may allow modifications or deviations relative to the number and location of portable fire extinguishers as required by this section provided such authority finds that the basic intent of this section and the ease of accessibility to extinguishers is otherwise achieved.
TABLE 906.1 ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
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(d) Group R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancies. In Group R-2J, R-3,1 and R-4 occupancies a continuously attached garden hose, equipped with a waterflow control nozzle, may be provided in lieu of one ormore required fire extinguishers when acceptable to the enforcing agency. The location and length of such hose shall be as designated or approved by the enforcing agency.
Note: It is recommended that wherever possible portable fire extinguishers be located adjacent to manual fire alarm sending stations.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division i, §565(a)] Selection of Fire Extinguishers,
(a) The selection of extinguishers for a given situation shall be determined by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with adopted codes or ordinances. The character of the fires anticipated, the construction and occupancy of the individual property, the vehicle or hazard to be protected, ambient-temperature conditions, and other factors shall be considered. The number, size, placement and limitations of use of extinguishers required shall be determined by using California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Sections 567 through 573.
906.2 General requirements. Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected, installed and maintained in accordance with this section and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3.
Exceptions:
1. The travel distance to reach an extinguisher shall not apply to the spectator seating portions of Group A-5 occupancies.
2. Thirty-day inspections shall not be required for portable fire extinguishers that are supervised by a listed and approved electronic monitoring device, provided that all of the following conditions are met:
2.1. Electronic monitoring shall confirm that extinguishers are properly positioned, properly charged and unobstructed.
2.2. Loss of power or circuit continuity to the electronic monitoring device shall initiate a trouble signal.
2.3. The extinguishers shall be installed inside of a building or cabinet in a noncorrosive environment.
2.4. Electronic monitoring devices and supervisory circuits shall be tested when extinguisher maintenance is performed.
2.5. A written log of required hydrostatic test dates for extinguishers shall be maintained by the owner to verify that hydrostatic tests are conducted at the frequency required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3.
3. In Group 1-3, portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be located at staff locations.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §565,l(a) through (c)] Classification of Hazards.
(a) Light (low) hazard. Locations where the total amounts of Class A combustible materials, including furnishings, decorations and contents, is of minor quantity. These shall include buildings or rooms occupied as offices, classrooms, churches, assembly halls, etc. This classification anticipates that the majority of the contents are either noncombustible or so arranged that a fire is not likely to spread rapidly. Small amounts of Class B flammables used for duplicating machines, art departments, etc., are included provided that they are kept in closed containers and safely stored.
(b) Ordinary (moderate) hazard. Locations where the total amounts of Class A combustibles and Class B flammables are present in greater amounts than expected under Light (Low) Hazard occupancies. These occupancies could consist of offices, classrooms, mercantile shops and allied storage, light manufacturing, research operations, auto showrooms, parking garages, workshop or support service areas of Light (Low) Hazard occupancies, and warehouses containing Class I or Class II commodities.
(c) Extra (high) hazard. Locations where the total amount of Class A combustibles and Class B flammables are present, in storage, production use, and/or finished product over and above those expected and classed as Ordinary (Moderate) Hazards. These occupancies could consist ofwoodworking, vehicle repair, aircraft and boat servicing, individual product display showrooms, product convention center displays, storage and manufacturing processes such as painting, dipping, coating, including flammable liquid handling. Also, included in warehousing of, or in-process storage of other Class I and Class II commodities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §565,2(a) through (e)] Selection by Hazard,
(a) Extinguishers shall be selected for the specific class or classes of hazards to be protected in accordance with the following subdivisions (b)(c)(d) and (e).
(b) Extinguishers for protecting Class A hazards shall be selected from the following: Water-type, halo genated agent types, multipurpose dry chemical and wet chemical type.
(c) Extinguishers for protection of Class B hazards shall be selected from the following: carbon dioxide, dry chemical types, halogenated agent types, and water-type and water chemical extinguishers rated for Class B hazards.
(d) Extinguishers for protection of Class C hazards shall be selected from the following: carbon dioxide, dry chemical types, halogenated agent types, and water mist types rated for Class C. Carbon dioxide extinguishers equipped with metal horns are not considered safe for use on fires in energized electrical equipment and, therefore, are not classified for use on Class C hazards.
(e) Extinguishers and extinguishing agents for the protection of Class D hazards shall be of types approvedfor use on the specific combustible metal hazard.
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[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §566(a) through (f)] Application for Specific Hazards,
(a) Class Bfire extinguishers for pressurized flammable liquids and pressurized gas fires. Fires of this nature are considered to be a special hazard. Class B fire extinguishers containing agents other than dry chemical are relatively ineffective on this type of hazard due to stream and agent characteristics. Selection of extinguishers for this type of hazard shall be made on the basis of recommendations by manufactures of this specialized equipment. The system used to rate extinguishers on Class B fires (flammable liquids in depth) is not applicable to these types of hazards. It has been determined that special nozzle design and rates of agent application are required to cope with such hazards. Caution: It is undesirable to attempt to extinguish this type of fire unless there is reasonable assurance that the source of fuel can be promptly shut off.
(b) Fire extinguishers provided for the protection of cooking appliances that use combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats) shall be listed and labeled Class K fires.
(c) Three-dimensional Class B fires. A three-dimensional Class B fire involves Class B materials in motion such as pouring, running or dripping flammable liquids and generally includes vertical as well as one or more horizontal surfaces. Fires of this nature are considered to be a special hazard. Selection of extinguishers for this type of hazard shall be made on the basis of recommendations by manufacturers of this specialized equipment. The system used to rate extinguishers on Class B fires (flammable liquids in depth) is not directly applicable to this type of hazard.
(d) Water soluble flammable liquid fires (polar solvents). Extinguishers used for the protection of water soluble flammable liquids, such as alcohols, acetones, esters, ketones, etc., shall be selected in accordance with Section 565.2. AFFF type and FFFP type fire extinguishers shall not be used for the protection of water soluble flammable liquids, such as alcohols, acetone, esters, ketones, etc, unless specifically referenced on the extinguisher nameplate.
(e) Electronic equipment fires. Extinguishers for the protection of delicate electronic equipment shall be selected from the following: carbon dioxide type or a halogenated agent type, or a distilled water mist type with a minimum Class A: C Rating.
(f) In patient care areas and sleeping rooms of health care facilities, fire extinguishers, including the agents and expelling means, should be selected and utilized which would not be detrimental to patients and are appropriate for the type of fire expected, such as distilled water mist type fire extinguishers with a minimum ''2-A:C" Rating.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567.8] Installation Temperatures,
Water-type (water, AFFF, FFFP) extinguishers shall not be installed in areas where temperatures are outside the range of 40''F to 120''F (4°C to 49''C). Other types shall not be installed in areas where temperatures are outside the range of^O°F to I20°F (-40°C to 49'^C). Fire extinguishers shall not be exposed
to temperatures outside of the range shown on the fire extinguisher label.
Exceptions:
1. Where fire extinguishers are installed in locations subject to temperatures outside these ranges, they shall be of a type approved and listed for the temperature to which they are exposed, or they shall be placed in an enclosure capable of maintaining the stipulated temperature range.
2. Fire extinguishers containing plain water only can be protected to temperatures as low as -40°F (^O'^C) by the addition of an antifreeze stipulated on the extinguisher nameplate. Calcium chloride solutions shall not be used in stainless steel fire extinguishers.
3. Some fire extinguishes are approved or listed for use at temperatures as low as -65"^F (-54°C).
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.1] Frequency of Inspection.
Fire extinguishers shall be manually inspected when initially placed in service. Thereafter extinguishers shall be manually inspected at least monthly by the building owner, occupant, or his/her authorized agent or electronically monitored. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected at more frequent intervals when circumstances require as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.2] Inspection Procedures.
(a) In addition to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 574.1 fire extinguishers shall be manually inspected in accordance with this section if they are located where any of the following conditions exist:
(1) High frequency of fires in the past
(2) Extra (high) hazard areas
(3) Location that make fire extinguishers susceptible to mechanical or physical damage
(4) Exposure to abnormal temperatures or corrosive atmospheres
(b) Manual inspection of extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
(1) Located in designated place
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility
(3) Operating instructions on nameplate legible and facing outward
(4) Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing
(5) Examine for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage or clogged nozzle
(6) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position
(7) Fullness determined by weighing or hefting
(8) For wheeled units, the condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle shall also be checked
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(9) For nonrechargeable extinguishers using push-to-test pressure indicators, test the indicator
(c) Electronic monitoring shall include monitoring of the following items:
(1) Located in the designated place
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility
(3) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567,1] Operating Conditions.
Portable extinguishers shall be maintained in a fully charged and operable condition, and kept in their designated places at all times when they are not being used.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.3] Corrective Action.
When an inspection of any extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the conditions listed in Title 19, Division 1, Sections 574.2(b)(c), immediate corrective action shall be taken.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.4] Nonrechargeable Extinguishers.
When an inspection of any nonrechargeable fire extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the conditions listed in (3), (4), (5), (6), (7) or (9) of Title 19, Division 1, Section 574.2(b), it shall be discharged and removed from service.
Exception: Nonrechargeable extinguishers containing a halon agent shall be removed from service, not discharged, and returned to the manufacturer or local fire extinguisher distributor having the capability of recovering the halon agent
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §575.10] Out of Service.
Fire extinguishers removed from service for maintenance or recharge shall be replaced by fire extinguishers suitable for the type of hazard protected and shall be of at least equal rating.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §591.5] Replacement Extinguishers.
Portable fire extinguishers shall not be removedfrom the premises for hydrostatic testing or any other purpose, without first replacing the extinguisher with a unit rated for the hazard being protected. The customer's original unit shall be returned within 60 calendar days,
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §596.7(a) and (b)] Removal of Tag.
(a) No person shall remove any tag, collar or label required by Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3, Article 9 from a portable fire extinguisher except when service is performed.
(b) No person shall deface, modify or alter any tag collar or label required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division I Chapter 3, Article 9 to be attached to any porta-blefire extinguisher.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.5(a) through (c)] Inspection Record Keeping.
(a) The fire extinguisher owner shall maintain records of all fire extinguishers inspected, including those extinguishers that were found to require corrective actions. Records shall be maintained until next required maintenance.
(b) At least monthly, the date the manual inspection was performed and the initials of the person performing the inspection shall be recorded on a tag or label attached to the fire extinguisher, or an inspection checklist maintained on file, or an electronic system (e.g., bar coding) that provides a permanent record.
(c) Fire extinguishers being inspected via electronic monitoring, whereby the extinguisher causes a signal at a control unit when a deficiency in any of the conditions listed in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 574.2(c) occurs shall provide record keeping in the form of an electronic event log at the control panel.
906.3 Size and distribution. The size and distribution of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.3.1 through 906.3.4.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567(a) through (k)] Distribution of Fire Extinguishers.
(a) The minimum number of fire extinguishers needed to protect a property shall be determined as outlined in this section. Additional extinguishers may be installed to provide more suitable protection.
(b) Fire extinguishers shall be provided for the protection of both the building structure and the occupancy hazards contained therein.
(c) Required building protection shall be provided by fire extinguishers suitable for Class A fires.
(d) Occupancy hazard protection shall be provided by fire extinguishers suitable for such Class A, B, C, D or Kfire potentials as may be present.
(e) Extinguishers provided for building protection may be considered also for the protection of occupancies having a Class Afire potential.
(f) Buildings having an occupancy hazard subject to Class B and/or Class C fires shall have a standard complement of Class Afire extinguishers for building protection, plus additional Class B and/or Class C extinguishers. Where fire extinguishers have more than one letter classification (such as 2-A:20-B:C), they may be considered to satisfy the requirements of each letter class. When using multipurpose extinguishers for the protection of Class B hazards, the maximum travel distances described in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2 must be observed.
(g) Rooms or areas shall be classified generally as light (low) hazard, ordinary (moderate) hazard, or extra (high) hazard. Limited areas of greater or lesser hazard shall be protected as required.
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(h) On each floor level, the area protected and the travel distances shall be based on fire extinguishers installed in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Tables 2 and 3.
(i) Fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view.
Exception: In large rooms, and in certain locations where visual obstruction cannot be completely avoided, means shall be proved to indicate the fire extinguisher's location.
(j) Fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located along normal paths of travel where they will be readily accessible and immediately available in the event of a fire.
(k) Where wheeled extinguishers are installed, aisles and doorways through which such extinguishers are to be moved shall have a clear and unobstructed width not less than one foot (1 foot) (305 mm) wider than the overall width of the extinguisher.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §568(a) through (e)] Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class A Hazards,
(a) Minimum sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed grades of hazards shall be provided on the basis of Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2, except as modified by Title 19, Division 1, Section 568(d). Extinguishers shall be located so that the maximum travel distances shall not exceed those specified in California Code of Regulations,Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2, except as modified by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568(d).
(b) Certain smaller fire extinguishers which are charged with a multipurpose dry chemical or halogenated agent are rated on Class B and Class Cfires, but having insufficient effectiveness to earn the minimum 1-A rating even though they have value in extinguishing smaller Class A fires. They shall not be used to meet the requirements of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2.
TITLE 19, DIVISION 1, SECTION 568, TABLE 2
*Two 2^2 gal (9.46 L) water type extinguishers can be used to fulfill the requirement of one 4-A rated extinguisher. Note: 1ft =0.305 m, 1 sqft =0.0929 n^
(c) Extinguishers as specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2 may be replaced by uniformly spaced V/2 inch (3.810 cm) hose stations for use by the occupants of the building. When hose stations are so provided they shall conform to Part 9, Title
24, California Code of Regulations, Chapter 9. The location of hose stations and the placement of fire extinguishers shall be in such a manner that the hose stations do not replace more than every other extinguisher
(d) Where the floor area of a building is less than that specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2, at least one extinguisher of the minimum size recommended shall be provided.
(e) The protection requirements may be fulfilled with extinguishers of a higher rating provided the travel distance from anywhere in the building to such larger extinguishers shall not exceed 75 feet (22.7 m), as shown in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 568, Table 2 above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §569(a) through (c)] Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires Other than for Fires in Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth.
(a) Minimum sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed grades of hazard shall be provided on the basis of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 569, Table 3. Extinguishers shall be located so that the maximum travel distances from anywhere in the building shall not exceed those specified in the table used.
Exception: Extinguishers of lesser rating, desired for small specific hazards within the general hazard area, may be used, but shall not be considered as fulfilling any part of the requirements of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 569, Tabled.
TITLE 19, DIVISION 7, SECTION569, TABLES
Notes:
1. The specified rating does not imply that fires of the magnitudes indicated by these ratings will occur, but rather to give the operators more time and agent to handle difficult spill fires that may occur
2. For fires involving water soluble flammable liquids see California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 566(d).
3. For specific hazard applications see California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 566.
(b) Two or more extinguishers of lower rating shall not be used to fulfill the protection requirements of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division i, Section 569, Table 3.
(c) The protection requirements may be fulfilled with extinguishers of high ratings provided the travel distance to such larger extinguishers shall not exceed 50 feet (15.25 m) as shown in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 569, Table 3.
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[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §570(a) through (e)]. Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires in Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth,
(a) Portable fire extinguishers shall not be installed as the sole protection for flammable liquid hazards of appreciable depth [greater than V^ inch (0.64 cm)[ where the surface area exceeds 10 square feet (0.93 m^).
Exception: Where personnel who are trained in extinguishing fires in the protected hazards are available on the premises, the maximum surface area shall not exceed 20 square feet (1,86 m^).
(b) For flammable liquid hazards of appreciable depths a Class Bfire extinguisher shall be provided on the basis of at least two numerical units of Class B extinguishing potential per square feet (0.0929 m^) offlammable liquid surface of the largest hazard area. Fire fires involving cooking grease or water-soluble flammable liquids, see California Code of Regulationsy Title 19, Division 1, Section 566(b) and 566 (d).
Exception: AFFF or FFFP type extinguishers may be provided on the basis of a IB rating of protection per square feet of hazard.
(c) Two or more extinguishers of lower ratings shall not be used in lieu of the extinguisher required for the largest hazard area.
Exception: Up to three AFFF or FFFP extinguishers may be used to fulfill the requirements provided the sum of the Class B ratings meets or exceeds the value required for the largest hazard area.
(d) Travel distances for portable extinguishers shall not exceed 50 feet (15.25 m) as shown in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 569, Table 3.
(e) Scattered or widely separated hazards shall be individually protected. An extinguisher in the proximity of a hazard shall be carefully located to be accessible in the presence of afire without undue danger to the operator.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division I, §57 1(a)] Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class C Hazards.
(a) Fire extinguishers with Class C ratings shall be required where energized electrical equipment can be encountered which would require a nonconducting extinguishing medium. This requirement includes situations where fire either directly involves or surrounds electrical equipment. Since the fire itself is a Class A or Class B hazard, the fire extinguishers shall he sized and located on the basis of the anticipated Class A or B hazard.
Note: Electrical equipment should be de-energized as soon as possible to prevent reigniting.
TABLE 906.3(1) FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS A FIRE HAZARDS
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929m^ 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. Two 2V2-gallon water-type extinguishers shall be deemed the equivalent of one 4-A rated extinguisher.
b. California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3 concerning application of the maximum floor area criteria.
c. Two water-type extinguishers each with a 1-A rating shall be deemed the equivalent of one 2-A rated extinguisher for Light (Low) Hazard Occupancies.
906.3.1 Class A fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies that involve primarily Class A fire hazards, the minimum sizes and distribution shall comply with Table 906.3(1).
906.3.2 Class B fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with depths of less than or equal to 0.25-inch (6.35 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with Table 906.3(2).
Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with a depth of greater than 0.25-inch (6.35 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with California Code of Regulations^ Title 19, Division 7, Chapter 3.
TABLE 906.3(2)
FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS WITH
DEPTHS OF LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 0.25-INCH
II
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
Note: For requirements on water-soluble flammable liquids and alternative sizing criteria, see California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3.
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90633 Class C fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for Class C fire hazards shall be selected and placed on the basis of the anticipated Class A or B hazard.
906,3.4 Class D fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving combustible metals shall be selected and placed in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3.
906.4 Cooking grease fires. Fire extinguishers provided for the protection of cooking grease fires shall be of an approved type compatible with the automatic fire-extinguishing system agent and in accordance with Section 904.11.5.
[California Code of Regulations^ Title 19, Division 1, §573(a) through (c)] Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Commercial Cooking Operations.
(a) Fire extinguishers with a Class K rating shall be provided for hazards where there is a potential for fires involving combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils andfats).
(b) Maximum travel distance shall not exceed 30 feet (9,15 m)from the hazard to the extinguishers.
(c) Additional fire extinguishers^ required for the control of other classes of fires, shall be provided for commercial cooking areas as required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 567,
906.5 Conspicuous location. Portable fire extinguishers shall be located in conspicuous locations where they will be readily accessible and immediately available for use. These locations shall be along normal paths of travel, unless thtfire code official determines that the hazard posed indicates the need for placement away from normal paths of travel.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567,5] Physical Damage Protection,
Extinguishers installed under conditions where they are subject to physical damage, (e.g., from impact, vibration, the environment) shall be adequately protected.
906o6 Unohstructed and unobscured. Portable fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view. In rooms or areas in which visual obstruction cannot be completely avoided, means shall be provided to indicate the locations of extinguishers.
906,7 Hangers and brackets. Hand-held portable fire extinguishers, not housed in cabinets, shall be installed on the hangers or brackets supplied. Hangers or brackets shall be securely anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567,3] Installation,
Portable fire extinguishers other than wheeled types shall be securely installed on the hanger or in the bracket supplied or placed in cabinets or wall recesses. The hanger or bracket shall be securely and properly anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Wheeled- type fire extinguishers shall be located in a designated location.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567.4] Brackets,
Extinguishers installed under conditions where they are subject to dislodgement shall be installed in brackets specifically designed to cope with this problem.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567,6] Mounting.
Fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 lbs (18.14 kg) shall be installed so that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 5 feet (1.53 m) above the floor. Fire extinguishers having a gross weight greater than 40 lbs (18.14 kg) (except wheeled types) shall be so installed that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 3-^2 feet (1.07 m) above the floor. In no case shall the clearance between the bottom of the extinguisher and the floor be less than 4 inches (10.2 cm).
906.8 Cabinets. Cabinets used to house portable fire extinguishers shall not be locked.
Exceptions:
1. Where portable fire extinguishers subject to malicious use or damage are provided with a means of ready access.
2. In Group 1-3 occupancies and in mental health areas in Group 1-2 occupancies, access to portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be locked or to be located in staff locations provided the staff has keys.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567,2] Cabinets,
Cabinets housing extinguishers shall not be locked.
Exception: Where extinguishers are subject to malicious use, locked cabinets may be used provided they include a means of emergency access and are approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567.7] Sealed Cabinets.
Where extinguishes are installed in closed cabinets, which are exposed to elevated temperatures, the cabinets shall be provided with screened openings and drains.
906.9 Extinguisher installation. The installation of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.9.1 through 906.9.3.
906.9.1 Extinguishers weighing 40 pounds or less. Portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor.
906.9.2 Extinguishers vt^eighing more than 40 pounds.
Hand-held portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 3.5 feet (1067 mm) above the floor.
906.9.3 Floor clearance. The clearance between the floor and the bottom of installed hand-held portable fire extinguishers shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm).
906.10 Wheeled units. Wheeled fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located in a designated location.
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SECTION 907 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire, alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.3 are applicable to existing buildings and structures.
907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the California Building Code, and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by th^ fire code official.
907.1.2 Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval prior to system installation, and shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
1. A floor plan that indicates the use of all rooms.
2. Locations of alarm-initiating devices.
3. Locations of alarm notification appliances, including candela ratings for visible alarm notification appliances.
4. Location of fire alarm control unit, transponders and notification power supplies.
5. Annunciators.
6. Power connection.
7. Battery calculations.
8. Conductor type and sizes.
9. Voltage drop calculations.
10. Manufacturers' data sheets indicating model numbers and listing information for equipment, devices and materials.
11. Details of ceiling height and construction.
12. The interface of fire safety control functions.
13. Classification of the supervising station.
14. All plans and shop drawings shall use the symbols identified in NFPA 170, Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols.
Exception: Other symbols are allowed where approved by the enforcing agency.
907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and components shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and approved in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 for the purpose for which they are installed.
907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907 fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.
907A,5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.
907.2 Where required—new buildings and structures. An
approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.6, 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 water-flow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency.
Exceptions:
1. The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm control Mrt/^5 dedicated to elevator recall control, supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
2. The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official 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.
3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official.
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an occupant load of 300 or more.
Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 1,000 shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Every Group A building used for educational purposes shall be provided with a manual or automatic fire alarm system. This provision shall apply to, but shall not necessarily be limited to, every community college and university.
Exceptions:
L Privately owned trade or vocational schools or any firm or company which provides educational facilities and instructions for its employees.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with 907.6.2.2. Group A occupancies with
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an occupant load of 10,000 or more, see Section 907.2,1.2,
Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an approved, constantly attended location.
907.2.1.2 Public address system. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13108.9, for all buildings or structures constructed on or after July 1,1991, which are intended for public assemblies of 10,000 or more persons a public address system with an emergency backup power system shall be required,
907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The combined Group B occupant load of all floors is 500 or more.
2, The Group B occupant load is more than \00 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
3. The Group ^fire area contains a Group B ambulatory health care facility.
4, Group B occupancies containing educational facilities, see Section 907,2.2.2.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903,3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.2.1 Group B ambulatory health care facilities.
Fire areas containing Group B ambulatory health care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory health care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces, 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 apphances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.2.2 Group B Educational facilities. Every Group B building used for educational purposes shall be provided with a manual or automatic fire alarm system. This provision shall apply to, but shall not necessarily be limited to, every community college and university.
Exception: Privately owned trade or vocational schools or any firm or company which provides educational facilities and instructions for its employees.
907.2.3 Group E. A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or more persons or containing more than one classroom or one or more rooms used for day-care purposes, in accordance with this section.
Where automatic sprinkler systems or automatic detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
Exceptions:
1. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where an approved automatic fire alarm system installed in accordance with this section, and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903,3.1.1, the occupant notification apphances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
907.23.1 System connection. Where more than one fire \ | alarm control unit is used at the school campus, they shall be interconnected and shall operate all notification appliances.
Exception: Interconnection of fire alarm control units is not required when all the following are I I provided: I I
1. Buildings that are separated a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm) and in accordance with the California Building Code, and
2. There is a method of two way communication \ | between each classroom and the school administrative office approved by the fire enforcing agency, and
3. A method of manual activation of each fire alarm system is provided.
907.2.3.2 Assemblies located within a Group E occupancy. Assembly occupancies with an occupant load of less than 1,000 and located within a Group E occupancy campus or building shall be provided with afire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
907.2.3.3 Notification. The fire alarm system notification shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.6.
907.2.3.4 Annunciation. Annunciation of the fire alarm system shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.7.3.1.
907.2.3.5 Monitoring. School fire alarm systems shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.7.5.2.
907.2.3.6 Automatic fire alarm system. Automatic detection shall be provided in accordance with this section.
907.2.3.6.1 Smoke detectors. Smoke detectors shall be installed at the ceiling of every room and in "ceiling-plenums" utilized for environmental air Where the ceiling is attached directly to the underside of the roof structure, smoke detectors shall be installed on the ceiling only.
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Exception: Where the environment or ambient conditions exceed smoke detector installation guidelines; heat detectors or fire sprinklers shall be used.
907.23.6,2 Heat detectors. Heat detectors shall be installed in combustible spaces where sprinklers or smoke detectors are not installed,
907.2.3.7 Public school.
I I 907.2.3.7.1 New public school campus. An auto-
matic fire alarm system shall be provided in all new public school campus as defined in Section 202 >| I regardless of occupancy classification.
I I 907.2,3.7.2 Modernization project. An automatic fire
alarm system shall be provided in all modernization
> projects as defined in Section 202.
> I I 907.2.3,7.3 Permanent-portable buildings. An auto-
matic fire alarm system shall be provided in all new public school Permanent-Portable Buildings.
I I Exception: Exempted Portable Buildings
907.2,3,7.4. Permanent-portable Building Modernization Project. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in permanent-portable buildings which to undergo a modernization project.
Exception: Exempted portable buildings
907.2.3.7.5 Day-care^ Group E or Group 1-4 located on a public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E or Group 1-4 day-care.
907.2.3.8 Private schools. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in new buildings of private schools.
Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3,1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
907.2.3.9 Day-care, Group E.
907.2.3.9.1 An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E day-care.
Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
907.2.3.9.2 Smoke detectors shall be installed in every room used for sleeping or napping.
907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section' 907.6 shall be installed in Group F occupancies where both of the following conditions exist:
1. The Group F occupancy is two or more stories in height; and
2. The Group F occupancy has a combined occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with Chapters 37, 39 and 40, respectively.
907.2.5.1 Group H occupancies located above the 10th story. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit above the 10th story.
907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system 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 through 907.2.6.3.3.
Exceptions:
1, Large family day-care.
2, Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by ih^fire code official.
907.2.6.1 Group M. Reserved.
907.2.6.1.1 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.6.2 Group 1-2 and Group 1-2.1. A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group 1-2 and 1-2,1 occupancies. Where automatic fire suppression systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Where an entire facility is used for the housing of persons, none of whom are physically or mentally handicapped or nonambulatory, and are
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between the ages of 18 and 64, the buildings or structures comprising such facility shall be exempt from the provisions of this subsection relating to the installation of an automatic fire alarm system.
907.2.6.2.1 Notification, The fire alarm notification system shall be in accordance with Section 907.6,2.5,
907.2.6.2.2 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section,
1. In patient and client sleeping rooms. Actuation of such detectors shall cause a visual display on the corridor side of the room in which the detector is located and shall cause an audible and visual alarm at the respective nurses ' station. A nurse call system listed for this function is an acceptable of providing the audible and visual alarm at the respective nurses ' station and corridor room display. Operation of the smoke detector shall not include any alarm verification feature.
Exception: In patient and client rooms equipped with existing automatic door closers having integral smoke detector, the integral detector is allowed to substitute for the room smoke detector, provided it meets all the required alerting functions.
2. Group 1-2 nurses' stations. A minimum of one (1) smoke detector shall be installed at the nurses' station and centrally located.
3. In waiting areas and corridors onto which they open, in the same smoke compartment, in accordance with Section 407.2.1.
907.2.6.3 Group 1-3 occupancies. Group 1-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.
907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal which automatically notifies staff.
907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.5.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.
907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarms boxes in detainee areas. 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.
907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection system. 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 inmates. \
Exceptions:
1. Other approved smoke detection arrangements may be used to prevent damage or < tampering or for other purposes provided the function of detecting any fire is fulfilled and the location of the detectors is such that the speed of detection will be equivalent to that provided by the spacing and location required in accordance with NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 47. This may include \ \ the location of detectors in return air ducts from cells, behind grilles or in other locations. Spot type, combination duct and open area smoke detectors may be used when located not more than 14 inches (356 mm) from the return air grill. For initiation and annunciation purposes, these detectors may
be combined in groups of four. The fire code official having jurisdiction, however, must approve the proposed equivalent performance of the design. <
2. For Department of Corrections, prison cell or cell complex automatic smoke detection system shall not be required when all of the following conditions are met:
1. All rooms, including the inmate cells are provided with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. Building is continuously staffed by a correctional officer at all times.
3. The exception to Section 903.2.6.2 shall not apply.
907,2,6,3.4 System annunciation, A stafi" alerting fire alarm shall sound at all staff'control stations on the floor of activation and an audible and visual signal shall be indicated on an annunciator at the facility control center upon activation of any automatic extinguishing system, automatic detection system, or any smoke detector or manual actuating or initiating device. In addition, where there are staff-control stations on the floor, an audible, visual and manual alarm shall be located in each staff control station.
Fire and trouble signals of fire alarm systems and sprinkler water-flow and supervisory signals of extinguishing systems shall be annunciated in an area designated as the facility control center which shall be constantly attended by staff personnel. All such signals shall produce both an audible signal and visual display at the facility control center indicating the building, floor zone or other designated area from which the signal originated in accordance with Section 907.7.3. II
All local detention facilities within the scope of Section 6031.4 of the Penal Code shall have an automatic
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smoke detection system. A manual fire alarm-initiating device shall be installed in all guard control stations and shall be capable of alerting personnel in a central control point to the presence of fire or smoke within the facility.
907,2.6.4 Large family day-care. Every large family day-care home shall be provided with at least one manual device at a location approved by the enforcing agency. Such device shall actuate a fire alarm signal which shall be audible throughout the facility at a minimum level of 15 db above ambient noise level. These devices need not be interconnected to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel or be electrically supervised or provided with emergency power. Such device or devices shall be attached to the structure and may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency, provided that such devices are distinctive in tone and are audible throughout the structure.
907.2.7 Group M. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.
2. The Group M occupant load is more than 100persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the California Building Code.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow,
907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a water flow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2.
907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height
where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least l-hom fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow; and
2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed throughout all 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 and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.9 Group R-2 and R-2.L Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies as required in Section 907.2.9.1 and 907.9.3.
907.2.9.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where:
1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge;
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit; or
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units.
4. Congregate living facilities or congregate residences with more than 16 occupants.
Exceptions:
1. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each
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II
Other and public or common areas by at least l-hom fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler water flow.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1026.6, Exception 4.
907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.9J Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies. Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies housing more than six non-ambulatory, elderly clients shall be provided with an approved manual and automatic fire alarm system.
Exceptions: Buildings housing non-ambulatory clients on the first story only and which are protected throughout by the following:
L An approved and supervised automatic sprinkler system, as specified in Sections 903,3.LI or 903.3, L2, which upon activation will initiate the fire alarm system to notify all occupants,
2. A manual fire alarm system.
3. Smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.1 L
907.2.10 Group R-4. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-4 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.10.1 through 907.2.10.3.
907.2.10.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group R-4 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least l-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow; and
2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas shall not be required at exits where located at all nurses' control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continuously accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.5.2.1 are not exceeded.
907.2.10.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An
automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
907.2.10.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms.
Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907,2.11.1 through 907.2.11.4 and NFPA 72.
Exception: For Group R occupancies. Afire alarm system with smoke detectors located in accordance with this section may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms. Upon actuation of the detector, only those notification appliances in the dwelling unit or guest room where the detector is actuated shall activate.
907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the
sleeping unit.
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3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For 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 provided that the lower level is less than one full story below >| the upper level.
I 907.2.11.2 Groups R-2,/?-2./, R-3,R-3.1 andR-4. Sin-
gle or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-2.1 , R-3, R-S. 1 and R-4 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
1. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
Exception: Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms in Group I-1 shall not be required where smoke detectors are provided in the sleeping rooms as part of an automatic smoke detection system.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements 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.
4. In a Group R-3.1 occupancy, in addition to the above, smoke alarms shall be provided throughout the habitable areas of the dwelling unit except kitchens.
907.2.11,2 J Group 1-4 Occupancies. Large family day-care homes shall be equipped with State Fire Marshal approved and listed single station residential type smoke alarms.
907,2.11.2.2 Group R-3.1. In all facilities housing a bedridden client, smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall be electrically interconnected so as to cause all smoke alarms to sound a distinctive alarm signal upon actuation of any single smoke alarm. Such alarm signal shall be audible throughout the facility at a minimal level of 15 db above ambient noise level These devices need not be interconnected to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel, or be electrically supervised or provided with emergency power.
907.2.11.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, R-2, R-3, R-3.1 or R-4, 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. The alarm
shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
907.2.11.4 Power source. In new construction construction and in newly classified Group R-3.1 occupancies, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery back-up shall be connected to an emergency electrical system. 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 overcurrent protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
907.2.12 Special amusement buildings. 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.
907.2.12.1 Alarm. Activation of any single smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler system or any other automatic fire detection device shall immediately sound an alarm at the building at a constantly attended location from which emergency action can be initiated, including the capability of manual initiation of requirements in Section 907.2.12.2.
907.2.12.2 System response. 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:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level;
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions;
3. Activate an approved directional exit marking that will become apparent in an emergency; and
4. Activate a prerecorded message, audible throughout the special amusement building, instructing patrons to proceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signals used in conjunction with the prerecorded message shall produce a sound which is distinctive from other sounds used during normal operation.
907.2.12.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system, which is also allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2 and be audible throughout the entire special amusement building.
907.2.13 High-rise buildings and Group 1-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. High-rise buildings and Group 1-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860
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mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2.
Exceptions:
1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Section 907.2.22 and Section 412 of the California Building Code.
2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3 of the California Building Code,
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the California Building Code.
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1 of the California Building
>| Code.
I 5. In Group 1-2 and R-2.1 occupancies, the alarm
shall sound at a constantly attended location and general occupant notification shall be broadcast by the emergency voice/alarm communication
system.
907.2.13.1 Automatic smoke detection. Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1 and 907.2.13.1.2.
907.2.13.1.1 Area smoke detection. Area 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 operate the emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room which is not provided with sprinkler protection.
2. In each elevator machine room and in elevator lobbies.
907.2.13.1.2 Duct smoke detection. Smoke detectors listed for use in air duct systems shall be provided in accordance with this section and the California Mechanical Code. The activation of any detector required by this section shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors complying with Section 907.4.1 shall be located as follows:
1. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94 mVs). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
2. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 mVs) and serving not more than 10 air-inlet openings.
907.2.13.2 Fire department communication system.
Where a wired communication system is approved in lieu of a radio coverage system in accordance with Section 510, the wired fire department communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall operate between 2ifire command center complying with Section 508, elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the enclosed exit stairway.
907.2.14 Atriums connecting more than two stories. A
fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories, with smoke detection installed throughout the atrium. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.6. Such occupancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying with the requirements of Section 907.6.2.2.
907.2.15 High-piled combustible storage areas. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by Section 2306.5.
907.2.16 Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by this code.
907.2.17 Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system.
907.2.18 Underground buildings with smoke control systems. Where a smoke control system is installed in an underground building in accordance with the California Building Code, automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.18.1.
907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in the following areas:
1. Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.
2. Elevator lobbies.
3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
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4. 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 mVs) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
907.2.18,2 Alarm required. Activation of the smoke control system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.
907.2.19 Deep underground buildings. Where the lowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2.
907.2.20 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m^) in total floor area shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.6.2.2.
907.2.21 Residential aircraft hangars. A minimum of one single-station smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential aircraft hangar as defined in the California Building Code and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or other sounding device to provide an alarm that will be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.
907.2.22 Airport traffic control towers. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be provided in airport control towers in all occupiable and equipment spaces.
Exception: Audible appliances shall not be installed within the control tower cab.
907.2.23 Battery rooms. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing stationary storage battery systems with a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189 L).
907.2.24 Motion picture and television production studio sound stages and approved production facilities,
907,2.24,1 Sound stages — Solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48, all interior solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55,7 m^) in area, and platforms (when provided) over 600 square feet (55.7 m^) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer's installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.7.5 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
907.2.24.2 Production locations — Solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48 in build- \ \ ings with existing fire protection systems and where production intends to construct solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m^) in area, and platforms over 600 square feet (55.7 m^) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer's installation instructions. The fire alarm system I I shall be connected to an approved supervising station in h accordance with Section 907.7.5 or a local alarm which \ \ will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
907.2.24.3 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units are permitted to be temporarily supported by sets, | | platforms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4 Heat detectors,
907.2.24.4.1 Heat detection required by this section shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.
907.2.24.4.2 Heat detectors shall be secured to standard outlet boxes and are allowed to be temporarily \ \ supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4.3 Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Sections 4805.3 and 4811.14. \ \
907,2,25 Group C Occupancies (Organized Camps),
907.2.25.1 General Every building and structure used or intended for sleeping purposes shall be provided with an automatic smoke-detection system.
Exception:
1. Buildings and structures in existence and in operation prior to January 1, 1985.
2. Tents, tent structures and buildings and structures that do not exceed 25 ft (7620 mm) in any lateral dimensions and where such building or structure is not more than one story.
907.2.25.2 Camp fire alarm. Every organized camp shall provide and maintain audible appliances, or devices suitable for sounding afire alarm. Such audible appliances or devices may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises. When an automatic fire alarm system is provided, as required by Section 440.6.6 of the California Building Code, all audible appliances required by this section shall he of the same type as that used in the automatic system.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3,12] Fire Alarm,
Every organized camp shall provide and maintain an audible appliance or audible appliances suitable for sounding a
^
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fire alarm. Such audible appliance or audible appliances may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises.
When an automatic fire alarm system is provided, all audible appliances and fire alarm signals as required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.
907.2.26 Fixed guideway transits systems fire alarm and communication systems.
907.2.26.1 General. Every fixed guideway transit station shall be provided with an approved emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with NFPA 72. The emergency voice/alarm communication
> system, designed and installed so that damage to any one speaker will not render any paging zone of the system inoperative.
> Exception: Open stations.
907.2.26.2 System components. Each station fire alarm system shall consist of:
L Fire alarm control unit at a location as permitted by the enforcing agency.
2. An alarm annunciator(s). The annunciator(s) shall be located at a point acceptable to the enforcing agency. The annunciator(s) shall indicate the type of device and general location of alarm. All alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be transmitted to the local annunciator(s) and the
I I operations control center.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided throughout passenger platforms and stations.
Exception: Two-way emergency communication reporting devices (emergency telephones) are allowed to be used in lieu of manual fire alarm boxes as permitted by the enforcing agency. Such devices shall provide two-way I I communication between the operations control
I I center and each device. Such devices shall be
located as required for manual fire alarm boxes, and shall be distinctly identified by signs, coloring, or other means acceptable to the enforcing agency.
4. Automatic smoke detectors in all ancillary spaces. Exceptions:
1. Ancillary spaces protected by an approved fixed automatic extinguishing system, or
2. Ancillary spaces protected by quick-response sprinklers.
5. Automatic control of exiting components.
907.2.26.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. Each station shall be provided with a an emergency voice/alarm communication system capable of transmitting voice, recorded or electronically generated textual messages to all areas of the station. The system(s)
shall be configured such that the messages can be initiated from either the Emergency Management Panel (EMP) or the operations control center. \ \
907.2.26.4 Emergency telephones. A dedicated two-way emergency communication phone system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be provided in all underground stations to facilitate direct communications for emergency response between remote locations and the EMP.
907.2.26.4.1 Remote emergency phones shall be \ \ located at ends of station platforms, each hose outlet connection and station valve rooms.
907.2.26.4.2 Provisions shall be made in the design of this two-way emergency communication phone sys- \ \ temfor extensions of the system to the next passenger station or guideway portal.
907.2.27 Winery caves. An approved manual fire alarm system conforming to the provisions of Section 907.2 shall be provided in all Type 3 winery caves.
907.2.28 Group L. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group L occupancies. When Group L occupancies are located in mixed use buildings, at least one manual fire alarm shall be located in the Group L occupancy.
907.2.28.1 Group L occupancies located above the 10th story. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit above the 10th story.
907.3 Where required in existing buildings and structures.
An approved fire alarm system shall be installed in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 46.
907.4 Fire safety functions. 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 installed. 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. 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.
907.4.1 Duct smoke detectors. 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 installed. Activation of a duct smoke | detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the |< intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exceptions:
1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detec-
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tors activate the building's alarm notification appliances.
2, 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.
907.4.2 Delayed egress locks. Where delayed egress locks or devices are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.9.7, an automatic smoke detection system shall be installed as required by this section and Section 1008. L9 J,
907.4.2.1 In other than Group I, R-2.1 and Group R-4 occupancies for single-story buildings smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces. For multiple-story buildings smoke detectors shall be installed throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces for the story where delayed egress devices are installed. Additional detectors are required on adjacent stories where occupants of those stories utilize the same means of egress.
907.4.2.2 For Group I and R-2.1 occupancies. Smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke-compartments where delayed egress devices are installed. Additional detectors are required in adjacent smoke-compartments where occupants of those compartments utilize the same means of egress.
907.4.2.3 For Group R-4. Occupancies licensed as residential care facilities for the elderly, and housing clients with Alzheimer's disease or dementia residential facilities, smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupiable rooms and areas and mechanical/electrical rooms and spaces.
907.4.3 Elevator emergency operation. Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator emergency operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of ASME A17.1 and NFPA 72.
907.4.4 Wiring. The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish the above fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.5 Initiating 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 907.5.1 through 907.5.3.1.
907.5.1 Protection of fire alarm control unit. 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.
Exception: Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of smoke detector, a heat detector shall be permitted.
907.5.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. 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 907.5.2.1 through 907.5.2,5.
907.5.2.1 Location. 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).
Exception: When individual dwelling units are served by a single exit stairway, additional boxes at other than the ground floor may be omitted.
907.5.2.2 Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1372 mm) measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
907.5.2.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
907.5.2.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by a supervising station, an approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS—CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
907.5.2.5 Protective covers. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to 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.
907.5.2.6 Operation. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be operable with one hand including boxes with protective covers.
907.5.3 Automatic smoke detection. 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.
907.5.3.1 Automatic sprinkler system. For conditions other than specific fire safety functions noted in Section 907.4, 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.L2 and that is connected to the fire alarm system shall be approved as automatic heat detection.
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907.6 Occupant notification systems. A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the panel and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Sections 907.6.1 through 907.6.2.3.4. Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1. Automatic fire detectors.
2. Sprinkler waterflow devices,
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Exception: Where notification systems are allowed elsewhere in Section 907 to annunciate at a constantly attended location.
907.6.1 Presignal feature. A presignal feature shall not be installed unless approvedby the fire code official and 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.
907.6.2 Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.
907.6.2.1 Audible alarms. 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.
I I In Group 1-2 occupancies, audible appliances located
in patient areas shall be only chimes or similar sounding I I appliances for alerting staff. See Section 907.7.5.
Exception: Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in areas of Group 1-2 occupancies.
907.6.2.1.1 Average sound pressure. 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 at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall
>| be: 75 dBA in occupancies in Group R; 90 dBA in
mechanical equipment rooms; and 60 dBA in other occupancies.
907.6.2.1.2 Maximum sound pressure. 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.
907.6.2.1.3 Audible alarm signal The audible signal shall be the standard fire alarm evacuation signal, ANSI
S34.I Audible Emergency Evacuation Signal, *'three pulse temporal pattern'' as described in NFPA 72.
Exception: The use of the existing evacuation signaling scheme shall be permitted where approved by the enforcing agency.
907.6.2.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication systems. 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 fu:e 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 Section 404. In high-rise buildings and Group 1-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, the system shall operate on a minimum of 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:
1. Elevator groups.
2. Exit stairways.
3. Each floor.
4. Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1.
Exception: In Group 1-2 andR-2.1 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page.
907.6.2.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.
907.6.2.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall also have the capability to broadcast live voice messages by paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.
907.6.2.2.3 Alternate uses. The emergency voice/ alarm communication system shall be allowed to be used for other announcements, provided the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.
907.6.2.2.4 Emergency power. Emergency voice/ alarm communications systems shall be provided with an approved emergency power source.
907.6.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.6.2.3.1 through 907.6.2.3.5.
Exceptions:
1. In other than Group 1-2 and 1-2.1, visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
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2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in enclosed exit stairways, exterior exit stairs, and exterior exit ramps.
3. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.
907.6.2.3.1 Public and common areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use areas, including but not limited to:
1. Sanitary facilities including restrooms, bathrooms and shower rooms
2. Corridors
3. Music practice rooms
4. Band rooms
5. Gymnasiums
6. Multipurpose rooms
7. Occupational shops
8. Occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm
9. Lobbies
10, Meeting rooms IL Classrooms
907.6.2.3.2 Employee work areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with a minimum of 20-percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employee(s).
907.6.2.3.3 Groups R-1 and R-2.L Group R-1 and R-2.1 dwelling units or sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.6.2.3.3 shall be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.
TABLE 907.6.2.3.3 VISIBLE ALARMS
Also see Chapter IIB Section llllB.4,5, Table IIB-S, and Table 118-4 of the California Building Code.
907.6.2.3.4 Group R-2. In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, all dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support visible alarm notification appUances in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.6.2.3.5 Groups R-2,1, R-3.1 andR'4, Protective social care facilities which house persons who are hearing impaired, shall be provided with notification appliances for the hearing impaired installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and which shall activated upon initiation of the fire alarm system or the smoke alarms,
907.6,2A Group E Schools, An audible alarm notification appliance shall be mounted on the exterior of buildings to alert occupants in and around the playground area.
907.6.2,5 Groups 1-2 and 1-2.1. Audible appliances shall be used in nonpatient areas. Visible appliances are allowed to be used in lieu of audible appliances inpatient occupied areas. Audible appliances located in patient areas shall be only chimes or similar sounding appliances for alerting staff.
In occupancies housing nonambulatory persons where restraint is practiced, staff and attendants shall be provided and housed or located in such a manner that such supervisory personnel will also be alerted upon activation of the fire alarm system or any detector required by this section.
907.7 Installation. A fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.7.1 through 907.7.5.1 and NFPA
72.
907.7.1 Wiring. Wiring shall comply with the requirements of California 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.
907.7.2 Power supply. The primary and secondary power supply for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Backup power for single-station and multiple-station smoke alarms as required in Section 907.2.11.4.
907.7.3 Zones. Fire alarm systems shall be divided into zones where required by this section. For the purposes of annunciation and notification, zoning shall be in accordance with the following:
1. Where the fire-protective signaling system serves more than one building, each building shall be considered as a separate zone.
2. Each floor of a building shall be considered as a separate zone.
3. Each section of floor of a building that is separated by fire walls or by horizontal exits shall be considered as a separate zone.
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II
4. Each zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m?). The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direction.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.
5. For Group 1-3 Occupancies each cell complex shall be considered a separate zone.
5. For Group H and L occupancies above the 10th story, each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be considered a separate zone.
7. Annunciation shall be further divided into zones where deemed necessary by the enforcing agency.
907.7.3.1 Annunciation, Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be annunciated in the main control unit by means of an audible signal and a visual display in accordance with NFPA 72. Identification of the type of alarm and supervisory initiating devices, such as manual, automatic, sprinkler waterflow, sprinkler valve supervisory, fire-pump supervisory, etc., shall be separately indicated.
Exception: Group R-3 Occupancies.
907,7,3,1,1 Annunciator panel. A annunciator panel complying with Section 907.7.3.1 and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved remote location where deemed necessary by the Enforcing Agency. 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.
907.7.3.2 High-rise buildings. In high-rise buildings and Group 1-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for all of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:
1. Smoke detectors.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems.
907.7.3.3 Notification zoning. Upon activation of initiating devices where occupant notification is required for evacuation, all notification zones shall operate simultaneously throughout the building.
Exceptions:
1. High-rise buildings as permitted in Section 907.2.12.2.
2. Hospitals and convalescent facilities with staff alerting notification appliances or emergency voice/alarm communication, zoning shall be in accordance with the approved fire plan.
3. Detention facilities.
4. Upon approval by the fire code official in buildings which are sprinklered throughout, specific
notification zoning shall be permitted where the notification zones are separated by a minimum of a 2-hour fire barrier and 2-hour fire-resistive floor assembly. The system shall have the capability to activate all other notification zones by automatic and manual means.
5. Upon approval by the fire code official in buildings which are sprinklered throughout, specific notification zoning shall be permitted where the activated initiating device or fire extinguishing system is separated from any non-active notification zones by a minimum 300-foot (91 440 mm) horizontal distance. The system shall have the capability to activate all other notification zones by automatic and manual means.
6. Where a Group H or L occupancy is located above the 10th story, each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be considered a separate zone.
907.7.4 Access. Access shall be provided to each fire alarm device and notification appliance for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
907.7.5 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the California Building Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72 and this section.
Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:
1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
2. Group 1-3 occupancies occupancies shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.4.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings,
907.7.5.1 Automatic telephone-dialing devices. Automatic telephone-dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number unless approved by the fire chief.
907.7.5.2 Group E schools. Fire alarm systems shall transmit the alarm, supervisory and trouble signals to an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72. The supervising station shall be listed as either UUFX (Central Station) or UUJS (remote & proprietary) by the Underwriters Laboratory Inc. (UL) or shall comply with the requirements of standard, FM 3011.
907.8 Acceptance tests and completion. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.8.1 Single- and multiple-station alarm devices.
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.
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907.8.2 Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.
907.8.3 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings ("as builts") and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
907.9 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Sections 907.9.1 through 907.9.5 and NFPA 72.
907.9.1 Maintenance required. Whenever required for compliance with the provisions of this code, devices, equipment, systems, conditions, arrangements, levels of protection or other features shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with applicable NFPA requirements or as directed by ihtfire code official.
907.9.2 Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance with the schedules in NFPA 72 or more frequently where required by the^r^ code official.
Exception: Devices or equipment that are inaccessible for safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but not less than every 18 months.
907.9.3 Smoke detector sensitivity. Smoke detector sensitivity shall be checked within one year after installation and every alternate year thereafter. After the second calibration test, where sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained within its listed and marked sensitivity range (or 4-percent obscuration Hght grey smoke, if not marked), the length of time between calibration tests shall be permitted to be extended to a maximum of five years. Where the frequency is extended, records of detector-caused nuisance alarms and subsequent trends of these alarms shall be maintained. In zones or areas where nuisance alarms show any increase over the previous year, calibration tests shall be performed.
907.9.4 Method. To verify that each smoke detector is within its listed and marked sensitivity range, it shall be tested using one of the following methods:
1. A calibrated test method;
2. The manufacturer's calibrated sensitivity test instrument;
3. Listed control equipment arranged for the purpose;
4. A smoke detector/control unit arrangement whereby the detector causes a signal at the control unit where the detector's sensitivity is outside its acceptable sensitivity range; or
5. Another calibrated sensitivity test method acceptable to the fire code official.
Detectors found to have a sensitivity outside the listed and marked sensitivity range shall be cleaned and recalibrated or replaced.
Exceptions:
1. Detectors listed as field adjustable shall be permitted to be either adjusted within the listed and marked sensitivity range and cleaned and recalibrated or they shall be replaced.
2. This requirement shall not apply to single-station smoke alarms.
907.9.4.1 Testing device. Smoke detector sensitivity shall not be tested or measured using a device that administers an unmeasured concentration of smoke or other aerosol into the detector.
907.9.5 Maintenance, inspection and testing. The building owner shall be responsible to maintain the fire and life safety systems in an operable condition at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 72 for maintaining, inspecting and testing such systems. A written record shall be maintained and shall be made available to the fire code official.
SECTION 908 EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS
908.1 Group H occupancies. Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided as required in Chapter 27.
908.2 Group H-5 occupancy. Emergency alarms for notification of an emergency condition in an HPM facility shall be provided as required in Section 1803.12. A continuous gas detection system shall be provided for HPM gases in accordance with Section 1803.13.
908.3 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Where required by Section 3704.2.2.10, a gas detection system shall be provided for indoor storage and use of highly toxic and toxic compressed gases.
908.4 Ozone gas-generator rooms. A gas detection system shall be provided in ozone gas-generator rooms in accordance with Section 3705.3.2.
908.5 Repair garages. A flammable-gas detection system shall be provided in repair garages for vehicles fueled by nonodorized gases in accordance with Section 2211.7.2.
908.6 Refrigeration systems. Refrigeration system machinery rooms shall be provided with a refrigerant detector in accordance with Section 606.8.
SECTION 909 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
909.1 Scope and purpose. This section applies to mechanical or passive smoke control systems when they are required for new buildings or portions thereof by provisions of the Califor-
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nia Building Code or this code. 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 overhaul activities. 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 California Mechanical Code.
909.2 General design requirements. Buildings, structures, or parts thereof required by the California Building Code or 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 describe adequately the elements of the design necessary for the proper implementation of the smoke control systems. These documents shall be accompanied with sufficient information and analysis to demonstrate compliance with these provisions.
909.3 Special inspection and test requirements. In addition to the ordinary inspection and test requirements which 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 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 as in Section 1704 of the California Building Code.
909.4 Analysis. A rational analysis supporting the types of smoke control systems to be employed, the methods of their operations, the systems supporting them, and the methods of construction to be utilized shall accompany the construction documents submission and include, but not be limited to, the items indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.6.
909.4.1 Stack effect. 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.
909.4.2 Temperature effect of fire. 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.
909.4.3 Wind effect. The design shall consider the adverse effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consistent with
the wind-loading provisions of the California Building Code.
909.4.4 Systems. 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 heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems.
909.4.5 Climate. 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.
909.4.6 Duration of operation. 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 calculated egress time, whichever is less.
909.5 Smoke barrier construction. Smoke barriers shall comply with the California Building Code. Smoke barriers shall be constructed and sealed to Hmit leakage areas exclusive of protected openings. The maximum allowable leakage area shall be the aggregate area calculated using the following leakage area ratios:
1. Walls:
2. £xiY enclosures:
3. All other shafts:
A/A = 0.00100 A/A^. = 0,00035 A/A =0.00150
4. Floors and roofs: A/A^ = 0.00050
where:
A = Total leakage area, square feet (m^).
Af = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m^).
A^^ = Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m^).
The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due to doors, operable windows or similar gaps. These shall be included in calculating the total leakage area.
909.5.1 Leakage area. 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 and operable windows. Compliance 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. Passive smoke control systems tested using other approved means, such as door fan testing, shall be as approved by the^r^ code official.
909.5.2 Opening protection. 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 715.4.3 of the California Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Passive smoke control systems with automatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing service
2010 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
installed in accordance with Section 907.4. When used in a Group L2, such detectors shall activate the building fire alarm system and shall close all the smoke barrier doors within the effected zone.
2. Fixed openings between smoke zones that are protected utilizing the airflow method in other than Group 1-2.
3. In Group 1-2, where doors are installed across corridors, a pair of opposite-swinging doors without a center mullion or horizontal sliding doors that
>| I comply with Section 1008.1.4.3. Vision panels
consisting of fire-rated glazing in approved frames shall be provided in each cross-corridor swinging door and at each cross-corridor horizontal-sliding door in a smoke barrier. The doors shall be close fitting within operational tolerances, and shall not have undercuts, louvers or grilles. Swinging doors shall have head and jamb stops and astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. Doors installed across corridors shall be automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 715.4.7.3715.4.8.3 of the California Building Code. Positive-latching devices are required. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1008.1.1.
4. Group 1-3.
5. 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.
6. In Group 1-2, smoke damper activation may be accomplished by a fire alarm control unit provided that an open area smoke detection system is provided within all areas served by an HVAC system.
909.5.2.1 Ducts and air transfer openings. Ducts and air transfer openings are required to be protected with a minimum Class II, 250°F (121°C) smoke damper complying with Section 716 of the California Building Code.
909.6 Pressurization method. 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.
909.6.1 Minimum pressure difference. The minimum pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be 0.05-inch water gage (0.0124 kPa) in fully sprinklered buildings.
In buildings allowed to be other than fully sprinklered, the smoke control system shall be designed to achieve pressure differences at least two times the maximum calculated pressure difference produced by the design fire.
909.6.2 Maximum pressure difference. 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 Sec-
tion 1008.1.3. 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:
F=F^, + K(WAAP)/2{W- d) (Equation 9-1)
where:
A = Door area, square feet (m^).
d = Distance from door handle to latch edge of door, feet (m).
F ~ Total door opening force, pounds (N).
Fj^ = Force required to overcome closing device, pounds
(N).
K = Coefficient 5.2 (1.0). W = Door width, feet (m). AP = Design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa).
909.7 Airflow design method. When approved by the fire code official, 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 airflow shall be in accordance with this section. Airflow 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.