780 cmr 9.00 fire protection and life safety systemsfire protection and life safety systems 8/22/08...

8/22/08 (Effective 9/1/08) 780 CMR - Seventh Edition 219

780 CMR 9.00FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

780 CMR 9.00 is unique to Massachusetts

780 CMR 901.0 GENERAL

901.1 Scope. The provisions of 780 CMR 9.00 shallspecify where fire protection systems are requiredand shall apply to the design, installation,maintenance and operation of all fire systems in allbuildings and structures.

901.1.1 Seismic Requirements. All “required”and “non-required” fire protection systems shallbe installed in accordance with the applicableSeismic Criteria requirements of 780 CMR 1613,related to the seismic design of fire protectionsystems.

901.2 Required Systems. All fire protectionsystems required by 780 CMR shall be installed,repaired, operated and maintained in accordancewith 780 CMR 9.00 and the applicable referencestandards listed in 780 CMR 35.00. All required firesuppression and standpipe systems shall be providedwith at least one automatic supply of fire-extinguishing agent of adequate pressure, capacityand reliability to perform the function intended.

901.3 Nonrequired Systems. Any fire protectionsystem or portion thereof not required by 780 CMRshall be permitted to be installed for partial orcomplete protection provided that such installedsystem meets applicable requirements of 780 CMR.A building permit shall be required for systemsinstalled pursuant to 780 CMR 901.3.

901.4 Maintenance. All water based fire protectionsystems shall be maintained in accordance withNFPA 25 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00. All other fireprotection systems shall be maintained in accordancewith the requirements of the applicable referencestandards and standards listed in 780 CMR 35.00.The owner of every building or structure shall beresponsible for the care and maintenance of all fireprotection systems, including equipment anddevices, to ensure the safety and welfare of theoccupants. No person shall shut off, disconnect,obstruct, remove or destroy, or cause or permit to beshut off, disconnected, obstructed, removed ordestroyed, any part of any sprinkler system, watermain, hydrant or other device used for fire protectionor carbon monoxide detection and alarm in anybuilding owned, leased or occupied by such personor under his control or supervision, without firstprocuring a written permit so to do from the head ofthe fire department of the city or town wherein suchbuilding is situated in accordance with M.G.L. c.148, § 27A.

When installations of fire protection systems areinterrupted for repairs or other necessary reasons, the

owner, tenant or lessee shall immediately advise thelocal fire department and shall diligently prosecutethe restoration of the protection.

901.5 Threads. All threads provided for firedepartment connections to sprinkler systems,standpipes, yard hydrants or any other fire hoseconnection shall be compatible with the connectionsused by the local fire department.

901.6 Signs-general. All signs required to identifyfire protection equipment, equipment rooms andequipment locations shall be constructed of durablematerials, be permanently installed and be readilyvisible. Letters and numbers shall contrast with thesign background, shall be at least two inches inheight and shall have an appropriate width-to-heightratio to permit the sign to be read easily from adistance of ten feet. The sign and location shall beapproved by the local fire department.

901.6.1 Sprinkler Control Valve RoomSignage. Where sprinkler control valves arelocated in a separate room or building, a sign shallbe provided on the entrance door. The letteringshall be at least 2½ inches (63.5 mm) in heightand shall otherwise conform to 780 CMR 901.6and shall read "Sprinkler Control Valves."

901.6.2 Fire Department Connections Signage.A metal sign with raised letters at least one inch(25 mm) in height shall be mounted on all firedepartment connections serving sprinklers orstandpipes. Such signs shall read "AutomaticSprinklers" or "Standpipe," or both, as applicable.

901.7 Fire Protection Systems Approval/Acceptance.

901.7.1 Required. Complete fire protectionconstruction documents shall be submitted inaccordance with 780 CMR 110.0 and 780 CMR901.0 and a building permit obtained prior to theinstallation of all "required" or "non required" fireprotection systems, including modifications,alterations, additions or deletions to an existingfire protection system. The fire protectionconstruction documents shall contain sufficientinformation to completely describe the fireprotection systems, including operational features.The information required pursuant to 780 CMR901.7 shall include, where required, the itemslisted in 780 CMR 901.7.1.1.

Exceptions:1. Maintenance; no building permit required.2. For modifications, alterations, additions ordeletions which do not affect system perform-ance or compatibility; no building permit is

780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS

THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

220 780 CMR - Seventh Edition 8/22/08 (Effective 9/1/08)

required unless otherwise directed by theBuilding Official. (Note also refer to M.G.L.c. 148, § 27A and M.G.L. c. 148, § 10A.)

901.7.1.1 Fire Protection ConstructionDocuments.

1. a. Basis (methodology) of design for theprotection of the occupancy and hazardsfor compliance with 780 CMR andapplicable NFPA Standards, in the formof a narrative report.b. Sequence of operation of all fireprotection systems and operation in theform of a narrative report.c. Testing criteria to be used for finalsystem acceptance in the form of anarrative report.

2. Building and site access for fire fightingand/or rescue vehicle(s) and personnel.3. Fire hydrant(s) location and water supplyinformation.4. Type/description and design layout of theautomatic sprinkler system(s).5. Automatic sprinkler system(s) controlequipment location.6. Type/description and design layout of theautomatic standpipe system(s).7. Standpipe system hose valve(s) type andlocation.8. Fire department siamese connectiontype(s) and location.9. Type/description and design layout of thefire protective signaling system(s).10. Fire protective signaling system(s)control equipment and remote annunciatorlocation.11. Type/description and design layout ofthe smoke control or exhaust system(s).12. Smoke control or exhaust system(s)control equipment location.13. Building life safety system features(auxiliary functions) required to beintegrated as part of the fire protectivesignaling system(s).14. Type/description and design layout ofthe fire extinguishing system(s).15. Fire extinguishing system(s) controlequipment location.16. Fire protection system(s) equipmentroom location.17. Fire protection system(s) equipmentidentification and operation signs.18. Fire protection system(s) alarm/supervisory signal transmission method andlocation.19. Fire command center location.20. Type/description and location of anyemergency alarm system.21. Type/description and location of anycarbon monoxide protection.

901.7.1.2 Plans. All fire protection system

plans shall contain sufficient information toidentify the occupancy, hazards, system andequipment arrangements, system andequipment sizing, systems specifications,systems sequence(s) of operation anddesign/engineering calculations.

901.7.1.3 Design. All fire protection systemsand fire protection system operation includingbuilding and site features as identified in780 CMR 901.7.1.1 shall be designed andspecified by a qualified Registered Profes-sional Engineer(s) except as provided inM.G.L. c. 143, § 54A and any profession ortrade as provided in M.G.L. c. 112, § 60L andM.G.L. c. 112, § 81R. All plans shall bear theoriginal seal and signature of the RegisteredProfessional Engineer(s), except as provided inM.G.L. c. 143, § 54A and any profession ortrade as provided in M.G.L. c. 112, § 60L andM.G.L. c. 112, § 81R. Specifications shallinclude requirements for the preparation ofshop drawings when required by 780 CMR orapplicable NFPA Standards. The RegisteredProfessional Engineer(s) or other legallyrecognized professional (M.G.L. c. 112, § 81R)shall be responsible for the review and certifythat all shop drawings conform to the approvedfire protection construction documents assubmitted for the building permit and approvedby the building official.

901.7.1.4 As-built Plans. As built plans shallbe provided to the building owner for all fireprotection and life safety systems that aresealed as reviewed and approved by theregistered Professional Engineer or legallyrecognized professional performingConstruction Control. Where changes tooriginal shop drawings are minor, a list of as-built changes shall be permitted to besubmitted where sealed and reviewed andapproved by the registered ProfessionalEngineer or legally recognized professionalperforming Construction Control.

901.7.1.5 Safeguarding Construction. Thefire protection construction documents shallprovide specifications for conformance to780 CMR 33.00 and NFPA-241 listed in780 CMR 35.00 in order to safeguard againstfires during construction, alterations anddemolition of all buildings and structuresregulated by 780 CMR.

901.7.2 Authority. In accordance with therequirements of 780 CMR 110.0 and 780 CMR901.7.1 the building of official shall transmit oneset of the fire protection construction documents(780 CMR 901.7.1.1 ) and building constructiondocuments to the head of the fire department orhis designee for review and approval of the itemsspecified in 780 CMR 901.7.1.1.


FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS


Notes:1. M.G.L. c. 148 §§ 26G, 26G.5, 26H and 26I,as applicable or otherwise when adopted by acity or town, will impact the fire protectionrequirements of 780 CMR 9.00. A buildingofficial shall consult Official InterpretationNumber 45-96, for guidance, wherecommunities have adopted M.G.L. c. 148, §§26G, 26H, and/or 26I.2. In addition to the building permit require-ments for fire protection systems in 780 CMR,M.G.L. c. 148, § 10A and 527 CMR mayimpose additional installation permittingrequirements.

901.7.2.1 Alternative Fire Protection DesignMethodologies - Independent EngineeringReview. Where alternative design methodolo-gies are utilized and where such methodologiesresult in designs which vary from anyprescriptive requirement of 780 CMR, theowner shall engage an independent registeredprofessional engineer to review said alternativedesign methodologies. The scope of theindependent registered professional engineerreview shall include, but not be limited to thefollowing;

(a) Review of the design assumptions,methodologies and resulting proposedsystem designs, to determine whether theproposed fire protection system designs andany other systems which are affected by thedesign assumptions, are consistent with thegeneral objectives and prescriptiveprovisions of 780 CMR and to determinewhether or not the methodologies andassumptions conform to acceptedengineering practice;(b) Preparation of a written report to thebuilding official as to the appropriateness ofthe proposed design, specifically listing anyvariances from the prescriptive provisions of780 CMR and describing, in detail, thedesign provisions used to achievecompliance.If the reviewing engineer concurs with the

proposed design, the owner shall makeapplication for a variance, to the State BuildingCode Appeals Board as provided in 780 CMR122.0. In addition to all supportinginformation and materials, the reviewingengineer’s report required in 780 CMR901.7.2.1(b) shall be included in theapplication for variance.

A building permit shall not be issued untilthe variance, if required, has been granted, orunless the building permit is issued in part,as provided for in 780 CMR 111.13. Whena variance is granted under 780 CMR 901.0for a bulk merchandising retail building asdefined in 780 CMR 424.2.1, and when the

condition appealed is common to futurebuildings of the owner, the State BuildingCode Appeals Board, upon request of theowner, may provide that the variance shallbe applicable to such future buildings. Ifsuch request is made, a quorum of the Boardshall hear the appeal. Each such applica-bility to a future building will be subject todetermination as prescribed in 780 CMR110.8 by the building official in conjunctionwith the head of the local fire departmentthat its use is in conformity with the terms ofthe variance.

901.7.3 Fire Protection Systems Installation.Fire protection systems shall be installed bycontractors and personnel appropriately licensedin the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (licensedinstalling contractor). Shop drawings requiredfor submittals and reviews by the RegisteredProfessional Engineer, or other legally recognizedprofessional by 780 CMR 901.7.1.3 or byapplicable NFPA Standards shall note thename(s), license number(s) and license expirationdate(s) of the contractor(s) installing the fireprotection systems.

901.7.4 Acceptance. In accordance with theprovisions of 780 CMR 120.0, a Certificate ofOccupancy shall not be issued until the buildingofficial and the head of the fire department or theirdesignees have witnessed a satisfactory functionaltest of all fire protection systems, installed inaccordance with the approved fire protectionconstruction documents. All fire protectionsystems shall be tested in accordance with theapplicable provisions of 780 CMR and NFPAStandards and approved testing criteria andoperational sequence as submitted in 780 CMR901.7.1.1, items 1.b and c. In addition, thefollowing documents and/or information shall besimultaneously submitted to the building officialand head of the fire department or their designeesprior to the witnessing of the operational fireprotection system(s) testing:

1. Certification, from the RegisteredProfessional Engineer or other legallyrecognized professional responsible for thedesign in accordance with 780 CMR 901.7.1.3stating that the fire protection systems havebeen installed in accordance with the approvedfire protection construction documents and thathe has reviewed the shop drawings forconformance to 780 CMR 901.7.3 and hasidentified deviations if any, from the approvedfire protection construction documents.2. Confirmation by the building owner/developer or authorized representative that theyhave received the as-built fire protectionsystem shop drawings from the installingcontractor and that the Registered ProfessionalEngineer or other legally recognized profes-




sional (M.G.L. c. 112, § 81R) has certifiedtheir reasonable accuracy.3. Material, Test, Performance andCompletion Certificates, properly executed bythe installing contractor in accordance with theapplicable NFPA Standards.

Exception. In lieu of witnessing asatisfactory functional test, the buildingofficial and head of the fire department ortheir designees may accept a finalperformance acceptance test report from aRegistered Professional Engineer or otherlegally recognized professional. Said reportshall certify that a complete satisfactoryfunctional test of all fire protection systemsin accordance with the approved testingcriteria and operational sequence have beenwitnessed.

901.7.4.1 Conditional Acceptance. Therequirements of 780 CMR 901.7.4 shall notpreclude the issuance of a temporary Certificateof occupancy by the Building Official inaccordance with 780 CMR 120.3.

780 CMR 902.0 DEFINITIONS

902.1 Definitions. The following words and termsshall, for the purposes of 780 CMR 9.00, and as usedelsewhere in 780 CMR, have the meanings shown in780CMR 902.1.

ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A firealarm system component such as a bell, horn,speaker, light or text display that provides audible,tactile or visible outputs, or any combination thereof.

ALARM SIGNAL. A signal indicating anemergency requiring immediate action, such as asignal indicative of fire.

ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE. A featureof automatic fire detection and alarm systems toreduce unwanted alarms wherein smoke detectorsreport alarm conditions for a minimum period oftime, or confirm alarm conditions within a giventime period, after being automatically reset, in orderto be accepted as a valid alarm-initiation signal.

ANNUNCIATOR. A unit containing one or moreindicator lamps, alphanumeric displays or otherequivalent means in which each indication providesstatus information about a circuit, condition orlocation.

APPROVAL/PERMIT TO INSTALL. Permitsoutside the jurisdiction of the building official,issued under authority of M.G.L. c. 148, §10A or527 CMR.

AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATIONAPPLIANCE. A notification appliance that alertsby the sense of hearing.

AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION. Theterm "Authority Having Jurisdiction" as used in theNFPA Standards as referenced in 780 CMR 9.00,shall mean the building official for enforcement of780 CMR and the BBRS for interpretation, waiver orvariances (see 780 CMR 122.0; see officialinterpretation number 35-94).

AUTOMATIC. As applied to fire protectiondevices, is a device or system providing anemergency function without the necessity for humanintervention and activated as a result of apredetermined temperature rise, rate of temperaturerise or combustion products.

AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHINGSYSTEM. An approved system of devices andequipment which automatically detects a fire anddischarges an approved fire-extinguishing agent ontoor in the area of a fire.

AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM. Asprinkler system, for fire protection purposes, is anintegrated system of underground and overheadpiping designed in accordance with fire protectionengineering standards. The system includes asuitable automatic water supply. The portion of thesystem above the ground is a network of speciallysized or hydraulically designed piping installed in astructure or area, generally overhead, and to whichautomatic sprinklers are connected in a systematicpattern. The system is usually activated by heat froma fire and discharges water over the fire area.

AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL. Theroot mean square, A-weighted sound pressure levelmeasured over a 24-hour period.

BAR. An occupancy offering services primarily foralcoholic beverages with limited food service.

CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHINGSYSTEMS. A system supplying carbon dioxide

2(CO ) from a pressurized vessel through fixed pipesand nozzles. The system includes a manual- orautomatic-actuating mechanism.

C A R B O N M O N O X I D E A L A R MPROTECTION. A system comprising of listeddevices that respond to carbon monoxide andprovides an alarm signal to notify occupants.

CEILING LIMIT. The maximum concentration ofan air-borne contaminant to which one may beexposed, as published in DOL 29 CFR Part1910.1000.

CLEAN AGENT. Electrically nonconducting,volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does notleave a residue upon evaporation.

CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. Adesignated location at a facility staffed by trainedpersonnel on a continuous basis where alarm orsupervisory signals are monitored and facilities are




provided for notification of the fire department orother emergency services.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. See7 8 0 C M R 2 0 2 . 0 , C O N S TR UC T IO NDOCUMENTS.

DELUGE SYSTEM. A sprinkler systememploying open sprinklers attached to a pipingsystem connected to a water supply through a valvethat is opened by the operation of a detection systeminstalled in the same areas as the sprinklers. Whenthis valve opens, water flows into the piping systemand discharges from all sprinklers attached thereto.

DETECTOR, HEAT. A fire detector that sensesheat produced by burning substances. Heat is theenergy produced by combustion that causessubstances to rise in temperature.

DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT.A powder composed of small particles, usually ofsodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, urea-potassium-based bicarbonate, potassium chloride ormonoammonium phosphate, with added particulatematerial supplemented by special treatment toprovide resistance to packing, resistance to moistureabsorption (caking) and the proper flow capabilities.

EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEM. A system toprovide indication and warning of emergencysituations involving hazardous materials.

E M E R G E N C Y V O I C E / A L A R MCOMMUNICATIONS. Dedicated manual orautomatic facilities for originating and distributingvoice instructions, as well as alert and evacuationsignals pertaining to a fire or other emergency, to theoccupants of a building.

EXPLOSION. An effect produced by the suddenviolent expansion of gases, that is accompanied by ashock wave or disruption of enclosing materials orstructures, or both.

FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL. See “ManualFire Alarm Box.”

FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT. A systemcomponent that receives inputs from automatic andmanual fire alarm devices and is capable ofsupplying power to detection devices andtransponder(s) or off-premises transmitter(s). Thecontrol unit is capable of providing a transfer ofpower to the notification appliances and transfer ofcondition to relays or devices.

FIRE ALARM SIGNAL. A signal initiated by afire alarm-initiating device such as a manual firealarm box, automatic fire detector, water flowswitch, or other device whose activation is indicativeof the presence of a fire or fire signature.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. A system or portion ofa combination system consisting of components andcircuits arranged to monitor and annunciate the

status of fire alarm or supervisory signal-initiatingdevices and to initiate the appropriate response tothose signals.

FIRE COMMAND CENTER. The principalattended or unattended location where the status ofdetection, alarm communications and controlsystems is displayed, and from which the system(s)can be manually controlled.

FIRE DEPARTMENT DESIGNEE. Anindividual authorized by the chief of the firedepartment to review and approve fire protectionsystem plans and installation.

FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. A devicedesigned to detect the presence of a fire signatureand to initiate action.

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. Approveddevices, equipment and systems or combinations ofsystems used to detect a fire, activate an alarm,extinguish or control a fire, control or manage smokeand products of a fire or any combination thereof.

FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS. Building and firecontrol functions that are intended to increase thelevel of life safety for occupants or to control thespread of harmful effects of fire.

FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A specialsystem discharging a foam made from concentrates,either mechanically or chemically, over the area tobe protected.

HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.A fire-extinguishing system using one or more atomsof an element from the halogen chemical series:fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.

HEAT DETECTOR. A fire detector that sensesheat produced by burning substances. Heat is theenergy produced by combustion that causessubstances to rise in temperature.

HOUSEHOLD FIRE WARNING SYSTEM. Ahousehold fire warning system consists of single ormultiple station detectors or a listed control unit withautomatic fire detectors and occupant notificationappliances. The household fire warning systemserves only one dwelling unit, patient room, hotelroom or other single area depending on use grouprequirements.

INITIATING DEVICE. A system component thatoriginates transmission of a change-of-statecondition, such as in a smoke detector, manual firealarm box or supervisory switch.

INSTALLING CONTRACTOR. An individual orfirm duly licensed to install fire protection systems.(See 780 CMR 901.7.3)

- Automatic Sprinklers Systems - M.G.L. c. 146,§§ 81 through 85A, 528 CMR 11.00 and 12.00. - Fire Extinguishing systems - M.G.L. c. 148,§§ 58, 527 CMR 23.00.




- Fire Alarm Systems - M.G.L. c. 141, §§ 1through 10, 237 CMR 1.00 through 6.00.

LEGALLY RECOGNIZED PROFESSIONAL. Those recognized under M.G.L. c. 112,§ 81Rincluding a person, firm, partnership, corporation orassociation who prepare plans, specifications or shopdrawings for work to be installed by the sameperson, firm, partnership, corporation or associationpreparing such plans, specifications or shopdrawings.

LIMITED AREA, SPRINKLER SYSTEM. Anautomatic sprinkler system consisting of not morethan 20 sprinklers (see 780 CMR 903.3.5.1.1).

LISTED. Equipment, materials or services includedin a list published by an organization acceptable tothe building official and concerned with evaluationof products or services that maintains periodicinspection of production of listed equipment ormaterials or periodic evaluation of services andwhose listing states either that the equipment, mater-ial or service meets identified standards or has beentested and found suitable for a specified purpose.

MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTIONSYSTEMS. Replacement or repair of any com-ponent or components of a fire protection system,where such does not affect system performance andcompatibility. (Also see Modifications, Alterations,Additions or Deletions to Fire Protection Systems).No building permit is required for maintenance.Other permits, however, may be required pursuant toM.G.L. c.148, § 27A and 527 CMR.

MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX. A manuallyoperated device used to initiate an alarm signal.

MASTER BOX. A municipal fire alarm box thatmay also be operated by remote means.

M O DIFICA T I O NS , AL T E RA T I O NS ,ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO FIREPROTECTION SYSTEMS. Any changes whichaffect the performance of the fire protection system.(Also see maintenance). Such changes require abuilding permit and are subject to other permittingrequirements pursuant to M.G.L. c. 148, § 27A.

MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE. Twoor more single-station alarm devices that are capableof interconnection such that actuation of one causesall integral or separate audible alarms to operate. Italso can consist of one single-station alarm devicehaving connections to other detectors or to a manualfire alarm box.

MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. Twoor more single-station alarm devices that are capableof interconnection such that actuation of one causesall integral or separate audible alarms to operate.

MUNICIPAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. Asystem of alarm initiating devices, receiving

equipment, and connecting circuits (other than apublic telephone network) used to transmit alarmsfrom street locations to the public fire servicecommunications center.

NIGHTCLUB. An occupancy characterized by anyof the following: no theatrical stage accessories otherthan raised platform; low lighting levels;entertainment by a live band or recorded musicgenerating above-normal sound levels; later-than-average operating hours; tables and seating arrangedor positioned so as to create ill defined aisles; aspecific area designated for dancing; servicefacilities primarily for alcoholic beverages withlimited food service; and high occupant load density.A nightclub may not include occupancies used fororganized private dining events with the followingcharacteristics: used for events that feature a meal asthe primary attraction; used for events that areorganized for the purpose of a private function,attendance for each specific event is limited and pre-arranged between the facility operator and theprivate event organizers, the number of guests islimited by written invitation or limited ticketavailability and does not exceed the agreed uponattendance limit; each event has a definite startingand ending time; tables and chairs are arranged inwell-defined aisles in such a manner to not impedeeasy egress; there are no significantly low lightinglevels; the maximum documented legal capacity,based upon the available floor space, is not less than15 feet (net) per occupant; the characteristics ofevents are strictly controlled by an on-site managerand are made part of a written function eventcontract.”

NUISANCE ALARM. An alarm caused bymechanical failure, malfunction, improper instal-lation or lack of proper maintenance, or an alarmactivated by a cause that cannot be determined.

PRE-ACTION SYSTEMS. A fire sprinkler systememploying automatic sprinklers attached to a pipingsystem containing air with a supplemental firedetection system installed in the same areas as theActuation of the fire detection system automaticallyopens a valve that permits water to flow into thesprinkler piping system and to be discharged fromany open sprinklers.

PROPRIETARY SUPERVISING STATION.Refer to the definition in NFPA-72 and to furtherdetails as identified in NFPA-72 as listed in780 CMR 35.00.

RECORD DRAWINGS. Drawings (“as builts”)that document the location of all devices, appliances,wiring sequences, wiring methods and connectionsof the components of a fire alarm system as installed.

REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER.A Registered Professional Engineer registered by theBoard of Registration of Professional Engineers and




of Land Surveyors in accordance with M.G.L. c. 112,§§ 81D through 81T and 250 CMR.

REMOTE STATION FIRE ALARM SYSTEMSUPERVISING STATION. Refer to thedefinitions in NFPA-72 and to further details asidentified in NFPA-72 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. Anassembly incorporating the detector, the controlequipment and the alarm-sounding device in oneunit, operated from a power supply either in the unitor obtained at the point of installation.

SHOP DRAWINGS. Scaled detailed workingdrawings (system layout) and equipmentspecifications (cut sheets) indicating all informationin accordance with requirements of the applicableNFPA Standards for the specific fire protectionsystems to be installed in accordance with the plansand specifications prepared by a Registered Profes-sional Engineer or Legally Recognized Professional.

SMOKE ALARM. A single- or multiple-stationalarm responsive to smoke and not connected to asystem.

SMOKE DETECTOR. A listed device that sensesvisible or invisible particles of combustion.

SMOKEPROOF ENCLOSURE. An exit stairwaydesigned and constructed so that the movement ofthe products of combustion produced by a fireoccurring in any part of the building into theenclosure is limited.

SPRINKLER. A device, connected to a watersupply system, that discharges water in a specificpattern for extinguishment or control of fire.

STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF. Stand-pipe classes are as follows:

Class I System. A system providing 2.5-inch (64mm) hose connections to supply water for use byfire departments and those trained in handlingheavy fire streams.Class II System. A system providing 1.5-inch(38 mm) hose stations to supply water for useprimarily by the building occupants or by the firedepartment during initial response.Class III System. A system providing 1.5-inch(38 mm) hose stations to supply water for use bybuilding occupants and 2.5-inch (64 mm) hoseconnections to supply a larger volume of water foruse by fire departments and those trained inhandling heavy fire streams.

STANDPIPE, TYPES OF. Standpipe types are asfollows:

Automatic Dry. A dry standpipe system,normally filled with pressurized air, that isarranged through the use of a device, such as drypipe valve, to admit water into the system pipingautomatically upon the opening of a hose valve.The water supply for an automatic dry standpipe

system shall be capable of supplying the systemdemand.Automatic Wet. A wet standpipe system that hasa water supply that is capable of supplying thesystem demand automatically.Manual Dry. A dry standpipe system that doesnot have a permanent water supply attached to thesystem. Manual dry standpipe systems requirewater from a fire department pumper to bepumped into the system through the firedepartment connection in order to meet the systemdemand.Manual Wet. A wet standpipe system connectedto a water supply for the purpose of maintainingwater within the system but does not have a watersupply capable of delivering the system demandattached to the system. Manual-wet standpipesystems require water from a fire departmentpumper (or the like) to be pumped into the systemin order to meet the system demand.Semiautomatic Dry. A dry standpipe system thatis arranged through the use of a device, such as adeluge valve, to admit water into the systempiping upon activation of a remote control devicelocated at a hose connection. A remote controlactivation device shall be provided at each hoseconnection. The water supply for a semiautomaticdry standpipe system shall be capable of supplyingthe system demand.

SUPERVISING STATION. A facility thatreceives signals and at which personnel are inattendance at all times to respond to these signals.

SUPERVISORY SERVICE. The service requiredto monitor performance of guard tours and theoperative condition of fixed suppression systems orother systems for the protection of life and property.

SUPERVISORY SIGNAL. A signal indicating theneed of action in connection with the supervision ofguard tours, the fire suppression systems or equip-ment or the maintenance features of related systems.

SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATINGDEVICE. An initiation device, such as a valvesupervisory switch, water-level indicator or low-airpressure switch on a dry-pipe sprinkler system,whose change of state signals an off-normalcondition and its restoration to normal of a fireprotection or life safety system, or a need for actionin connection with guard tours, fire suppressionsystems or equipment or maintenance features ofrelated systems.

TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF. Storage of tireswhere the area available for storage exceeds 20,000cubic feet (566 m ).3

TROUBLE SIGNAL. A signal initiated by the firealarm system or device indicative of a fault in amonitored circuit or component.




U.L. LISTED OR FM APPROVED CENTRALSTATION SERVICE. Central station service asdefined in NFPA-72 and as further identified inNFPA 72 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

VISIBLE ALARM N OT I FI CA T I O NAPPLIANCE. A notification appliance that alertsby the sense of sight.

WATER SUPPLY AUTOMATIC. A water supplythat is not dependent on any manual operation, suchas making connections, operating valves or startingpumps.

WET-CHEMI CA L EXT INGUISHINGSYSTEM. A solution of water and potassium-carbonate-based chemical, potassium-acetate-basedchemical or a combination thereof, forming anextinguishing agent.

WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM. A systemor a part of a system that can transmit and receivesignals without the aid of wire.

ZONE. A defined area within the protectedpremises. A zone can define an area from which asignal can be received, an area to which a signal canbe sent or an area in which a form of control can beexecuted.

780 CMR 903.0 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER

SYSTEMS

903.1 General. Automatic sprinkler systems shallcomply with 780 CMR 903.0.

903.1.1 Sprinklered Throughout. Sprinkleredthroughout shall mean sprinkler protection in allareas required by the applicable design andinstallation automatic fire sprinkler standard and780 CMR.

903.2 Where Required. Automatic sprinklersystems in buildings and structures shall be providedin the locations described in 780 CMR 903.0. (Alsosee Note 1.)

Exceptions:1. Any room where the application of water, orflame and water, constitutes a serious life or firehazard and protected by an alternative automaticfire-extinguishing system in accordance with780 CMR 903.1.1.2. Spaces or areas in telecommunications build-ings used exclusively for telecommunicationsequipment, associated electrical powerdistribution equipment, batteries and standbyengines, provided those spaces or areas areequipped throughout with an automatic fire alarmsystem in accordance with 780 CMR 907.0 andare separated from the remainder of the buildingby a wall with a fire-resistance rating of not lessthan one hour and a floor/ceiling assembly with afire-resistance rating of not less than two hours.3. Portions of buildings that comply with

780 CMR 406.0 for open parking structures lessthan 70 feet in height above mean grade.4. Automatic sprinkler protection shall not beprovided in:

(a) elevator machine rooms of traction/drumelevators;(b) elevator machine rooms of hydraulicelevators;(c) elevator hoistways and elevator pits.

Such elevator machine rooms and hoistway/pitenclosures shall be constructed to afford at leastthe fireresistance rating specified in Table 601 andotherwise as required/allowed by the applicableportions of 780 CMR 7.00 (typically, but notalways, the hoistway/pit and machine room willhave a minimum fireresistance rating of two hourswith elevator opening protectives rated at 1½hours but ratings of 1 hour for hoistway/pit andmachine rooms and ¾ hours for elevator openingprotectives may be allowed). Where Table 602requires a higher fireresistance rating for elevatormachine rooms, hoistways and/or pits, such ratingmust be provided unless such ratings are governedby other sections of 780 CMR.

For elevator installation within atriums also see780 CMR 404 for additional fireresistance ratingguidance. Where the elevator machine room isdetermined to be a true penthouse roof structure,also refer to 780 CMR 1509.0 for additionalfireresistance rating requirements.5. Sprinklers shall not be required innoncombustible and limited combustibleconcealed spaces and plenums that containelectrical, data, communications and other cablesthat are of the types and in the configurationspermitted in such spaces by 527 CMR 12.00: Massachusetts Electrical Code 6. Sprinklers may be omitted in TransformerVaults where all the following conditions aresatisfied:

1. The cable within the vault is flameretardant or limited combustible.2. The dielectric fluid is a limited combustiblefluid.3. The vault is enclosed in three hour fireresistance rated construction.4. The vault is at grade or no more than onelevel below grade. Access to the vault isdirectly from the exterior or via a dedicatedtwo hour passageway.5. The vault is protected with automaticsmoke detection connected to the building firealarm system which notifies the fire departmentupon activation.6. The room is limited to the sole use of thetransformer equipment and is limited in size toaccommodate said equipment only. Storage isprohibited in the vault enclosure.7. The vault is provided with spillcontainment.




8. An emergency fire plan has been developedwith and approved by the fire department.9. Continuous ventilation is provided for thevault enclosure in accordance with theventilation requirements of NFPA 30.10. The ventilation equipment is dedicated toserve the vault only.11. Emergency power is provided for theventilation equipment.12. The vault is no larger in area than 2400 sq.ft.

7. Sprinklers may be omitted in TransformerVaults where all the following conditions aresatisfied:

1. An alternative suppression system isprovided for the vault.2. Continuous ventilation is provided for thevault enclosure in accordance with theventilation requirements of NFPA 30. Emergency power shall be provided for theventilation equipment and the ventilation shallbe dedicated to serve the vault only.

Note 1. Automatic sprinkler systems may berequired by M.G.L. c. 148, § 26A, 26A½, 26G,26G½, 26H or 26I.

903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided throughout buildings having aGroup A occupancy as provided in 780 CMR903.2.

903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided throughout buildingshaving a Group A-1 occupancy.

903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided throughout buildingsas further described in 780 CMR 903.2.1.2.1and 903.2.1.2.2.

903.2.1.2.1 Group A-2nc. An automaticsprinkler system shall be providedthroughout buildings having a Group A-2ncoccupancy where the occupant load is 50 orgreater.

903.2.1.2.2 Group A-2r An automaticsprinkler system shall be providedthroughout buildings having a Group A-2roccupancy where any of the followingconditions exists:

1. The floor area exceeds 5,000 squarefeet (464.5 m ).2

2. The floor area has an occupant load of300 or more.3. The floor area is located on a floorother than the level of exit discharge.

903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided throughout buildingshaving a Group A-3 occupancy where any ofthe following conditions exists:

1. The aggregate floor area of the buildingexceeds 5,000 square feet (1115 m ).2

2. The Group A-3 occupancy has anoccupant load of 300 or more.3. The Group A-3 occupancy is located ona floor other than the level of exit discharge.

Exception. Areas used exclusively asparticipant sports areas where the mainfloor area is located at the same level asthe level of exit discharge of the mainentrance and exit.

903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided throughout buildingshaving a Group A-4 occupancy where any ofthe following conditions exists:

1. The aggregate floor area of the buildingexceeds 7,500 square feet (1115 m ).2

2. The Group A-4 occupancy has anoccupant load of 300 or more.3. The Group A-4 occupancy is located ona floor other than the level of exit discharge.

Exception. Areas used exclusively asparticipant sports areas where the mainfloor area is located at the same level asthe level of exit discharge of the mainentrance and exit.

903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided in concession stands,retail areas, press boxes and other accessoryuse areas in excess of 1,000 square feet (93m ).2

903.2.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided throughout buildings having aGroup B occupancies where the aggregate floorarea of the building exceeds 12,000 square feet(1115 m ).2

903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided for Group E occupancies asfollows:

1. Where the aggregate floor area is greaterthan 12,000 square feet (1115 m ) in area.2

2. Throughout every portion of educationalbuildings below the level of exit discharge.

903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided throughout buildingshaving a Group F-1 occupancy where any of thefollowing conditions exists:

1. The aggregate floor area of the buildingexceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m );.2

2. Group F-1 occupancy is located more thanthree stories above grade.3. Where there is a woodworking operation inexcess of 2,500 square feet (232 m ) in area2

that generates finely divided combustible wasteor uses finely divided combustible materials.

903.2.5 Group H. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided throughout all buildings havinga Group H occupancy.

Exception. See 780 CMR 903.3.1.1.1




903.2.5.1 Pyroxylin Plastics. An automaticsprinkler system shall be provided in buildings,or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate filmor pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, storedor handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds(45 kg) (Also refer to 527 CMR).

903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided throughout buildings with aGroup I occupancy.

Exception. An automatic sprinkler systeminstalled in accordance with 780 CMR903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed inGroup I-1 facilities.

903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be provided throughout buildings containinga Group M occupancy where any of the followingconditions exists:

1. The aggregate floor area of the buildingexceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m );.2

2. The Group M occupancy is located morethan three stories above grade;3. Bulk merchandising stores as defined in780 CMR 426.0.

903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler systeminstalled in accordance with 780 CMR 903.3 shallbe provided throughout all buildings with aGroup R occupancy. For Use Group R Buildingswith an aggregate building area of 12,000 sf ormore, the sprinkler system shall be designed andinstalled in accordance with NFPA 13. For thepurposes of 780 CMR 903.2, the aggregatebuilding area shall be the combined area of allstories of the building and fire walls shall not beconsidered to create separate buildings.

Exceptions:1. Buildings, other than R-1 Occupancies andR-2 Dormitories, having no more than threedwelling units shall be permitted to have anautomatic fire suppression system installed inaccordance with 780 CMR 903.3.1.3, providedthat every automatic sprinkler system shallhave at least one automatic water supply or astored water supply source in accordance withNFPA-13D where the minimum quantity ofstored water shall equal the water demand ratetimes 20 minutes.2. For one- or two-family “stand-alone”dwellings classified as R-3 buildings, refer to780 CMR 5313.5 – Note, however, thattownhouses are required to be sprinklered.

903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided for Group S-1occupancies as follows:

1. Throughout the building where theaggregate floor area of the building is greaterthan 12,000 square feet in area.2. Throughout the building, where a Group S-1 occupancy is located more than three storiesabove grade.

903.2.9.1 Repair Garages. An automaticsprinkler system shall be provided throughoutall buildings having a repair garages where anyof the following conditions exists:

1. Where the building is two or morestories in height, including basements, andcontains a repair garage exceeding 10,000square feet (929 m ).2

2. The aggregate floor area of the buildingexceeds12,000 square feet (1115 m ).2

3. A repair garage is located in a basement.

903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinklersystem shall be provided for Group S-2occupancies as follows:

1. Throughout buildings classified as GroupS-2 Enclosed Parking.2. Throughout Group S-2 Enclosed Parkinglocated beneath other groups.

903.2.10.1 Commercial Parking Garages.An automatic sprinkler system shall beprovided throughout buildings used for storageof commercial trucks or buses where theaggregate floor area used for parking exceeds5,000 square feet (464 m ).2

903.2.11 All Occupancies (Except Groups R-3and U). An automatic sprinkler system shall beinstalled in the locations set forth in 780 CMR903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.1.3.

903.2.11.1 Stories and Basements withoutOpenings. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be installed throughout every story orbasement of all buildings where the floor areaexceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m ) and2

where there is not provided at least one of thefollowing types of exterior wall openings:

1. Openings below grade that lead directlyto ground level by an exterior stairway com-plying with 780 CMR 1009 or an outsideramp complying with 780 CMR 1010.Openings shall be located in each 50 linearfeet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, ofexterior wall in the story on at least one side.2. Openings entirely above the adjoiningground level totaling at least 20 square feet(1.86 m ) in each 50 linear feet (15 2402

mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall inthe story on at least one side.

903.2.11.1.1 Opening Dimensions andAccess. Openings shall have a minimumdimension of not less than 30 inches (762mm). Such openings shall be accessible tothe fire department from the exterior andshall not be obstructed in a manner that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplishedfrom the exterior.

903.2.11.1.2 Openings on One Side Only.Where openings in a story are provided ononly one side and the opposite wall of suchstory is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from




such openings, the story shall be equippedthroughout with an approved automaticsprinkler system, or openings as specifiedabove shall be provided on at least two sidesof the story.

903.2.11.1.3 Basements. Where any portionof a basement is located more than 75 feet(22 860 mm) from openings required by780 CMR 903.2.10.1, the basement shall beequipped throughout with an approvedautomatic sprinkler system.

903.2.11.2 Rubbish and Linen Chutes. Anautomatic sprinkler system shall be installed ator above the topmost service opening ofrubbish and linen chutes and in their terminalrooms. Chutes extending through three ormore floors shall have additional sprinklerheads installed within such chutes at alternatefloors. Chute sprinklers shall be accessible forservicing.

903.2.11.3 Buildings over 55 Feet in Height.An automatic sprinkler system shall beinstalled throughout buildings with a floor levelhaving an occupant load of 30 or more that islocated 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above thelowest level of fire department vehicle access.

Exceptions:1. Airport control towers.2. Open parking structures.

903.2.12 Other Required Suppression Systems.In addition to the requirements of 780 CMR903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.12also require the installation of a suppressionsystem for certain buildings and areas.

TABLE 903.2.12 ADDITIONAL REQUIREDOR POTENTIALLY REQUIRED

SUPPRESSION/EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

SECTION SUBJECT

Table 302.1.1 Incidental Use Areas

402.8 Covered malls

403.2 High-rise buildings

404.3 Atriums

405.3 Underground structures

407.5 Group I-2

410.6 Stages

411.4 Special amusement buildings

412.2.5, 412.2.6 Aircraft hangars

415.7.2.4 Group H-2*

416.4 Flammable finishes

417.4 Drying rooms

422.4.6, 422.5.2 Day care centers

422.5.3 Day care centers

424.5 Bulk Merchandising Retail Buildings

425.3.5 Limited Group Residence

426.9.1 Detoxification Facilities

427.2 as applicable Group Dwelling Units

507 Unlimited area buildings

IMC Commercial cooking operations

IMC Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts

IFC-Section 903, Numerous

IFC-Section 904 Numerous

SECTION SUBJECT

M.G.L. c. 148, § 26A High-rise

M.G.L. c. 148,§ 26A½ High-rise

M.G.L. c. 148,§ 26G Buildings over 7,500 ft (local option2

law)

M.G.L. c. 148,§ 26G½ Nightclubs

M.G.L. c. 148,§ 26H Lodging Houses (local option law)

M.G.L. c. 148,§ 26I four or more residential units (local

option law)

*Review all H USES for possible sprinkleringrequirements.

903.3 Installation Requirements. Automaticsprinkler systems shall be designed and installed inaccordance with 780 CMR 903.3.1 through 903.3.7.

903.3.1 Standards. Sprinkler systems shall bedesigned and installed in accordance with780 CMR 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.

903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 Sprinkler Systems.Where the provisions of 780 CMR require thata building or portion thereof be equippedthroughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with 780 CMR 903.3.1.1,sprinklers shall be installed throughout inaccordance with NFPA 13 except as providedin 780 CMR 903.3.1.1.1.

903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations. Automaticsprinklers shall not be required in the roomsor areas noted in 780 CMR 903.2,Exceptions.

903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R Sprinkler Systems.Where allowed in buildings of Group R, up toand including four stories in height, automaticsprinkler systems shall be installed throughoutin accordance with NFPA 13R.

903.3.1.2.1 Balconies. Sprinklerprotection shall be provided for exteriorbalconies and ground-floor patios ofdwelling units where the building is ofType V construction. Sidewall sprinklersthat are used to protect such areas shall bepermitted to be located such that theirdeflectors are within one inch (25 mm) tosix inches (152 mm) below the structuralmembers, and a maximum distance of 14inches (356 mm) below the deck of theexterior balconies that are constructed ofopen wood joist construction.

903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems.Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systemsshall be installed throughout in accordancewith NFPA 13D.

903.3.2 Fast Response Automatic Sprinklers.Where automatic sprinkler systems are requiredby 780 CMR, fast response automatic sprinklersshall be installed in the following areas inaccordance with 780 CMR 903.3.1 and theirlistings:




1. Throughout all spaces within a smokecompartment containing patient sleeping unitsin Group I-2 in accordance with 780 CMR.2. In Group R and I-1 occupancies.3. Light-hazard occupancies as defined inNFPA 13.4. Residential sprinklers shall be installed inareas where one or more rooms are arrangedfor the use of one or more individuals livingtogether, as in a single housekeeping unitnormally having cooking, living, sanitary orsleeping facilities including but not limited to:hotel rooms, dorm rooms, apartment units,condo units, and sleeping rooms in nursinghomes and hospitals.

903.3.3 Obstructed Locations. Automaticsprinklers shall be installed with due regard toobstructions that will delay activation or obstructthe water distribution pattern. Automatic sprink-lers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks,displays, booths, concession stands, or equipmentthat exceeds four feet (1219 mm) in width. Notless than a three-foot (914 mm) clearance shall bemaintained between automatic sprinklers and thetop of piles of combustible fibers.

Exception. Kitchen equipment under exhausthoods protected with a fire-extinguishingsystem in accordance with 780 CMR 904.0.

903.3.4 Actuation. Automatic sprinkler systemsshall be automatically actuated unless specificallyprovided for in 780 CMR.

903.3.5 Water Supplies. Water supplies forautomatic sprinkler systems shall comply with780 CMR 903.3.5 and the standards referenced in780 CMR 903.3.1. The potable water supply shallbe protected against backflow in accordance with310 CMR 22.22.

903.3.5.1 Domestic Services. Where thedomestic service provides the water supply forthe automatic sprinkler system, the supply shallbe in accordance with 780 CMR 903.3.5.1.

903.3.5.1.1 Limited Area SprinklerSystems. Limited area sprinkler systemsserving fewer than 20 sprinklers on anysingle connection are permitted to beconnected to the domestic service where awet automatic standpipe is not available.Limited area sprinkler systems connected todomestic water supplies shall comply witheach of the following requirements:

1. Valves shall not be installed betweenthe domestic water riser control valve andthe sprinklers.

Exception. An approved indicatingcontrol valve supervised in the openposition in accordance with 780 CMR903.4.

2. The domestic service shall be capable

of supplying the simultaneous domesticdemand and the sprinkler demandrequired to be hydraulically calculated byNFPA 13, NFPA 13R or NFPA 13D.

903.3.5.1.2 Combination Services. Asingle combination water supply shall bepermitted provided that the domestic and/orcommercial demand is added to the sprinklerdemand as required by NFPA 13, NFPA13D or NFPA 13R as applicable.

903.3.5.2 Secondary Water Supply. Asecondary on-site water supply equal to thehydraulically calculated sprinkler demand,including the hose stream requirement, shall beprovided for high-rise buildings in SeismicDesign Category C, D, E or F as determined by780 CMR. The secondary water supply shallhave a duration not less than 30 minutes asdetermined by the occupancy hazardclassification in accordance with NFPA 13.

Exception. Existing buildings.

903.3.6 Hose Threads. Fire hose threads used inconnection with automatic sprinkler systems shallbe approved and compatible with fire departmenthose threads.

903.3.7 Fire Department Connections. Thelocation of fire department connections shall beapproved by the head of the fire department. Firedepartment connections shall not be obstructed byfences, bushes, trees, walls, or any other similarobject(s).

903.3.7.1 Locking Fire DepartmentConnection (FDC) Caps. The head of the firedepartment is authorized to require lockingFDC caps on fire department connections forwater-based fire protection systems where theresponding fire department carries appropriatekey wrenches for removal.

903.3.7.2 Connections. Fire departmentconnections shall be arranged in such a mannerthat the attachment to any one water sprinklerconnection will serve all sprinklers.

903.4. Alarms. Approved audible and visual alarmdevices shall be connected to every water sprinklersystem. Such alarm devices shall be activated bywater flow and shall be located in an approved loca-tion on the exterior of the building and throughoutthe building in accordance with the requirements of780 CMR 907.

903.5 Floor Control Valves. Approved supervisedindicating control valves shall be provided at thepoint of connection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings.

903.6 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance.Sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested andmaintained in accordance with 527 CMR andNFPA 25.




780 CMR 904.0 ALTERNATIVE

AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING

SYSTEMS

904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishingsystems, other than automatic sprinkler systems,shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested andmaintained in accordance with the provisions of780 CMR 904.0 and the applicable referencedstandards.

904.2 Where Required. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative tothe required automatic sprinkler systems of780 CMR 903.0 shall be approved by the buildingofficial. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shallnot be considered alternatives for the purposes ofexceptions or reductions permitted by otherrequirements of 780 CMR.

904.2.1 Hood System Suppression. Eachrequired commercial kitchen exhaust hood andduct system required by the 527 CMR or theInternational Mechanical Code to have a Type Ihood shall be protected with an approvedautomatic fire-extinguishing system installed inaccordance with 780 CMR.

904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishingsystems shall be installed in accordance with780 CMR 904.3.

904.3.1 Electrical Wiring. Electrical wiring shallbe in accordance with 527 CMR 12.00:Massachusetts Electrical Code.

904.3.2 Actuation. Automatic fire-extinguishingsystems shall be automatically actuated andprovided with a manual means of actuation inaccordance with 780 CMR 904.11.1.

904.3.3 System Interlocking. Automaticequipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs,ventilation controls, door closers, windowshutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat ventsand other features necessary for proper operationof the fire-extinguishing system shall be providedas required by the design and installation standardutilized for the hazard.

904.3.4 Alarms and Warning Signs. Wherealarms are required to indicate the operation ofautomatic fire-extinguishing systems, distinctiveaudible and visible alarms and warning signs shallbe provided to warn of pending agent discharge.Where exposure to automatic-extinguishingagents poses a hazard to persons and a delay isrequired to ensure the evacuation of occupantsbefore agent discharge, a separate warning signalshall be provided to alert occupants once agentdischarge has begun. Audible signals shall be inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.9.2.

904.3.5 Monitoring. Where a building fire alarmsystem is installed, automatic fire-extinguishingsystems 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 testedin accordance with the provisions of 780 CMR 904.4prior to acceptance.

904.4.1 Inspection. Prior to conducting finalacceptance tests, the following items shall beinspected:

1. Hazard specification for consistency withdesign hazard.2. Type, location and spacing of automatic-and manual-initiating devices.3. Size, placement and position of nozzles ordischarge orifices.4. Location and identification of audible andvisible alarm devices.5. Identification of devices with properdesignations.6. Operating instructions.

904.4.2 Alarm Testing. Notification appliances,connections to fire alarm systems and connectionsto approved supervising stations shall be tested inaccordance with 780 CMR 904.4and 780 CMR907.0 to verify proper operation.

904.4.2.1 Audible and visible signals. Theaudibility and visibility of notificationappliances signaling agent discharge or systemoperation, where required, shall be verified.

904.4.3 Monitor Testing. Connections toprotected premises and supervising station firealarm systems shall be tested to verify properidentification and retransmission of alarms fromautomatic fire-extinguishing systems.

904.5 Wet-chemical Systems. Wet-chemicalextinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained,periodically inspected and tested in accordance withNFPA 17A and their listing.

904.5.1 Discharge Test. All systems shall betested by a discharge of expellant gas through thepiping and nozzles with observations being madeof the flow of expellant gas through all nozzles aswell as observing for leakage and continuity ofpiping with free unobstructed flow.

904.6 Dry-chemical Systems. Dry-chemicalextinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained,periodically inspected and tested in accordance withNFPA 17 and their listing.

904.6.1 Discharge Test. All systems shall betested by a discharge of expellant gas through thepiping and nozzles with observations being madeof the flow of expellant gas through all nozzles aswell as observing for leakage and continuity ofpiping with free unobstructed flow.

904.7 Foam Systems. Foam-extinguishing systemsshall be installed, maintained, periodically inspectedand tested in accordance with NFPA 11 and NFPA16 and their listing.




904.8 Carbon Dioxide Systems. Carbon dioxideextinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained,periodically inspected and tested in accordance withNFPA 12 and their listing.

904.9 Halon Systems. Halogenated extinguishingsystems shall be installed, maintained, periodicallyinspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 12Aand their listing.

904.10 Clean-agent Systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained,periodically inspected and tested in accordance withNFPA 2001 and their listing.

904.11 Commercial Cooking Systems. Theautomatic fire-extinguishing system for commercialcooking systems shall be of a type recognized forprotection of commercial cooking equipment andexhaust systems of the type and arrangementprotected. Preengineered automatic dry- and wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested inaccordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled forthe intended application. Other types of automaticfire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeledfor specific use as protection for commercial cookingoperations. The system shall be installed inaccordance with 780 CMR, its listing and themanufacturer’s installation instructions. Automaticfire-extinguishing systems of the following typesshall be installed in accordance with the referencedstandard indicated, as shown:

1. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA12.2. Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.3. Foam-water sprinkler system or foam-waterspray systems, NFPA 16.4. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA17.5. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA17A.

Exception. Factory-built commercial cookingrecirculating systems that are tested inaccordance with UL 197, and listed, labeledand installed in accordance with section 304.1of the International Mechanical Code.

904.11.1 Manual System Operation. A manualactuation device shall be located at or near ameans of egress from the cooking area, aminimum of ten feet (3048 mm) and a maximumof 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaustsystem. The manual actuation device shall belocated a minimum of four feet (1219 mm) and amaximum of five feet (1524 mm) above the floor.The manual actuation shall require a maximumforce of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximummovement of 14 inches (356 mm) to actuate thefire suppression system.

Exception. Automatic sprinkler systems shallnot be required to be equipped with manualactuation means.

904.11.2 System Interconnection. The actuationof the fire suppression system shall automaticallyshut down the fuel or electrical power supply tothe cooking equipment. The fuel and electricalsupply reset shall be manual.

904.11.3 Carbon Dioxide Systems. Whencarbon dioxide systems are used, there shall be anozzle at the top of the ventilating duct.Additional nozzles that are symmetricallyarranged to give uniform distribution shall beinstalled within vertical ducts exceeding 20 feet(6096 mm) and horizontal ducts exceeding 50 feet(15 240 mm). Dampers shall be installed at eitherthe top or the bottom of the duct and shall bearranged to operate automatically upon activationof the fire-extinguishing system. Where thedamper is installed at the top of the duct, the topnozzle shall be immediately below the damper.Automatic carbon dioxide fire-extinguishingsystems shall be sufficiently sized to protectagainst all hazards venting through a commonduct simultaneously.

904.11.3.1 Ventilation System. Commercial-type cooking equipment protected by anautomatic carbon dioxide-extinguishing systemshall be arranged to shut off the ventilationsystem upon activation.

904.11.4 Special Provisions for AutomaticSprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systemsprotecting commercial-type cooking equipmentshall be supplied from a separate, readilyaccessible, indicating-type control valve that isidentified.

904.11.4.1 Listed Sprinklers. Sprinklers usedfor the protection of fryers shall be listed forthat application and installed in accordancewith their listing.

904.12 Water Spray Fixed System. Water sprayfixed systems shall be installed, maintained,periodically inspected and tested in accordance withNFPA 15 and their listing.

780 CMR 905.0 STANDPIPE SYSTEMS

905.1 General. Standpipe systems shall be providedin new buildings and structures in accordance with780 CMR 905.0. Fire hose threads used inconnection with standpipe systems shall becompatible with connections used by the local firedepartment. The location of fire department hoseconnections shall be approved by the head of the firedepartment.

905.2 Installation standards. Standpipe systemsshall be installed in accordance with 780 CMR 905.0and NFPA 14. Where standpipe systems arerequired by 780 CMR, such systems shall beautomatic wet systems.

Exceptions:1. When approved by the head of the fire




department, an automatic dry or semi-automatic drystandpipe systems shall be permitted in areas subjectto freezing.

2. A manual wet standpipe is permitted inbuildings less than 70 feet in height which areequipped throughout with an approved automaticfire suppression system. However, the systemmay be designed to obtain the outlet pressuresand water flows in accordance with NFPA 14with inlet pressures at the fire departmentconnection that are consistent with local firedepartment equipment.”

905.3 Required Installations. Standpipe systemsshall be installed where required by 780 CMR905.3.1 through 905.3.6 and in the locationsindicated in 780 CMR 905.4, 905.5 and 905.6.Standpipe systems are permitted to be combinedwith automatic sprinkler systems.

Exception. Standpipe systems are not required inGroup R-3 occupancies as applicable in 780 CMR101.2.

905.3.1 Building Height. Class III automaticstandpipe systems shall be installed throughoutbuildings where the floor level of the highest storyis located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above thelowest level of fire department vehicle access, orwhere the floor level of the lowest story is locatedmore than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the highestlevel of fire department vehicle access.

Exceptions:1. Class I manual standpipes are allowed inopen parking garages where the highest floor islocated not more than 150 feet (45 720 mm)above the lowest level of fire departmentvehicle access.2. Class I manual dry standpipes are allowedin open parking garages that are subject tofreezing temperatures, provided that the hoseconnections are located as required for Class IIstandpipes in accordance with 780 CMR 905.5.

905.3.2 Group A. Class I automatic wetstandpipes shall be provided in nonsprinkleredGroup A buildings having an occupant loadexceeding 1,000 persons.

Exceptions:1. Open-air-seating spaces without enclosedspaces.2. Class I automatic dry and semiautomaticdry standpipes or manual wet standpipes areallowed in buildings where the highest floorsurface used for human occupancy is 75 feet(22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level offire department vehicle access.

905.3.3 Covered Mall Buildings. Hoseconnections shall be provided at each of thefollowing locations:

1. Within the mall at the entrance to each exitpassageway or corridor.

2. At each floor-level landing within enclosedstairways opening directly on the mall.3. At exterior public entrances to the mall.

905.3.4 Stages. Stages greater than 1,000 squarefeet in area (93 m ) shall be equipped with a Class2

III automatic wet standpipe system with 1½-inchand 2½-inch (38 mm and 64 mm) hoseconnections on each side of the stage. Wherepermitted by the head of the fire department, aClass I Standpipe may be installed.

Exception. Where the building or area isequipped throughout with an automaticsprinkler system, the hose connections areallowed to be supplied from the automaticsprinkler system and shall have a flow rate ofnot less than that required by NFPA 14 forClass III standpipes.

905.3.4.1 Hose and Cabinet. The 1½-inch (38mm) hose connections shall be equipped withsufficient lengths of 1½-inch (38 mm) hose toprovide fire protection for the stage area. Hoseconnections shall be equipped with an approvedadjustable fog nozzle and be mounted in a cabinetor on a rack.

905.3.5 Underground Buildings. Undergroundbuildings shall be equipped throughout with aClass I automatic wet or manual wet standpipesystem.

905.3.6 Helistops and Heliports. Buildings witha helistop or heliport that are equipped with astandpipe shall extend the standpipe to the rooflevel on which the helistop or heliport is locatedsuch that all areas of the helistop or heliport arewithin 150 feet of a Class I standpipe outlet.

905.3.7 High-piled Combustible Storage. Aclass I automatic wet or manual standpipe systemshall be provided in all exit passageways of areascontaining high-piled combustible storage.

905.3.8 Building Area. A class I automatic wetor manual standpipe system shall be provided inall buildings where any portion of the buildingfloor area is more than 400 feet of travel from thenearest point of fire department vehicle access –note that in this instance, vehicle access traveldistance is actual distance measured along and/oraround the building exterior and shall not beargued reduced by the addition of fire walls/partywalls which otherwise would define individualbuildings.

905.3.9 Groups A-1 and A-2. In Group A-1 andA-2 occupancies with occupant loads of more than1,000, shall be equipped with a Class II standpipesystem.

905.4 Location of Class I Standpipe HoseConnections. Class I standpipe hose connectionsshall be provided in all of the following locations:




1. In every required stairway, a hose connectionshall be provided for each floor level above orbelow grade. Unless otherwise required by thehead of the fire department, hose connectionsshall be located at an intermediate floor levellanding between floors.2. On each side of the wall adjacent to the exitopening of a horizontal exit.3. In every exit passageway at the entrance fromthe exit passageway to other areas of a building.4. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to eachexterior public entrance to the mall and adjacentto each entrance from an exit passageway or exitcorridor to the mall.5. Where the roof has a slope less than four unitsvertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3% slope), eachstandpipe shall be provided with a hoseconnection located either on the roof or at thehighest landing of stairways with stair access tothe roof. An additional hose connection shall beprovided at the top of the most hydraulicallyremote standpipe for testing purposes.6. The most remote portion of a nonsprinkleredfloor or story shall not be more than 150 feet (45720 mm) from a hose connection or the mostremote portion of a sprinklered floor or story ismore than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a hoseconnection, the head of the fire department isauthorized to require that additional hoseconnections be provided in approved locations.Where connections are provided outside of exitstairways, the locations shall be approved by thehead of the fire department.

905.4.1 Protection. Risers and laterals of Class Istandpipe systems not located within an enclosedstairway or pressurized enclosure shall beprotected by a degree of fire resistance equal tothat required for vertical enclosures in the buildingin which they are located.

Exception. In buildings equipped throughoutwith an approved automatic sprinkler system,laterals that are not located within an enclosedstairway or pressurized enclosure are notrequired to be enclosed within fire-resistance-rated construction.

905.4.2 Interconnection. In buildings wheremore than one standpipe is provided, thestandpipes shall be interconnected in accordancewith NFPA 14.

905.4.3 1.5 inch Reducer. A removable 1.5 inchreducer and cap shall be provided on all Class Ioutlets.

905.5 Location of Class II Standpipe HoseConnections. Class II standpipe hose connectionsshall be accessible and located so that all portions ofthe building are within 30 feet (9144 mm) of anozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose.

905.5.1 Groups A-1 and A-2. In Group A-1 andA-2 occupancies with occupant loads of more than

1,000, hose connections shall be located on eachside of any stage, on each side of the rear of theauditorium, on each side of the balcony and oneach tier of dressing rooms.

905.5.2 Protection. Fire-resistance-ratedprotection of risers and laterals of Class IIstandpipe systems is not required.

905.5.3 Class II System 1-inch Hose. Aminimum 1-inch (25 mm) hose shall be permittedto be used for hose stations in light-hazardoccupancies where investigated and listed for thisservice and where approved by the buildingofficial.

905.6 Location of Class III Standpipe HoseConnections. Class III standpipe systems shallhave hose connections located as required forClass I standpipes in 780 CMR 905.4 and shallhave Class II hose connections as required in780 CMR 905.5.

905.6.1 Protection. Risers and laterals ofClass III standpipe systems shall be protectedas required for Class I systems in accordancewith 780 CMR 905.4.1.

905.6.2 Interconnection. In buildings wheremore than one Class III standpipe is provided,the standpipes shall be interconnected at thebottom.

905.7 Standpipe System Piping Sizes. The riserpiping, supply piping, and the water service pipingshall be hydraulically sized in accordance with theprovisions of NFPA-14 listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

Exception. The residual pressure(s) as noted inNFPA-14 are not required to be maintained inbuildings less than 70 feet in height which areequipped throughout with an approved automaticfire suppression system. However the systemshall be designed to accommodate the outletpressures and water flows in accordance withNFPA 14 and inlet pressures consistent with localfire department equipment..

905.8 High-rise Buildings. All buildings more than70 feet in height above the mean grade shall haveeach floor supplied by a minimum of twocombination standpipe/sprinkler risers installed inaccordance with the requirements of NFPA-14,listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

905.9 Cabinets. Cabinets containing fire-fightingequipment such as standpipes, fire hoses, fireextinguishers or fire department valves shall not beblocked from use or obscured from view.

905.9.1 Cabinet Equipment Identification.Cabinets shall be identified in an approvedmanner by a permanently attached sign withletters not less than two inches (51 mm) high in acolor that contrasts with the background color,indicating the equipment contained therein.




Exceptions:1. Doors not large enough to accommodate awritten sign shall be marked with apermanently attached pictogram of theequipment contained therein.2. Doors that have either an approved visualidentification clear glass panel or a completeglass door panel are not required to be marked.

905.9.2 Locking cabinet doors. Cabinets shallbe unlocked.

Exceptions:1. Visual identification panels of glass orother approved transparent frangible materialthat is easily broken and allows access.2. Approved locking arrangements.3. Group I-3.

905.10 Valve Supervision. Valves controllingwater supplies shall be supervised in the openposition so that a change in the normal position ofthe valve will generate a supervisory signal at thesupervising station required by 780 CMR 903.4.Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shallalso be transmitted to the control unit.

Exceptions:1. Valves to underground key or hub valves inroadway boxes provided by the municipality orpublic utility do not require supervision.2. Valves locked in the normal position andinspected as provided in 780 CMR in buildingsnot equipped with a fire alarm system.

905.11 During Construction. Standpipe systemsrequired during construction and demolitionoperations shall be provided in accordance with780 CMR 3311.0 and NFPA 241.

780 CMR 906.0 PORTABLE FIRE

EXTINGUISHERS

906.1 General. Portable fire extinguishers shall beprovided in occupancies and locations as required by527 CMR and 906.2.

906.2 Where Required. A portable fireextinguisher shall be installed in the followinglocations in accordance with NFPA 10 listed in780 CMR 35.00:

1. In all occupancies in Use Group A-1, A-2, A-3,B, E, I-2, M, R-1 or H;2. In all areas containing commercial kitchenexhaust hood systems;3. In all areas where fuel is dispensed;4. In all areas where a flammable or combustibleliquid is used in the operation of spraying, coatingor dipping;5. In all occupancies in Use Group I-3 at stafflocations. Access to portable extinguishers shallbe permitted to be locked;6. On each completed floor of buildings underconstruction, other than occupancies in Use GroupR-3.

7. In any laboratory, shop or other room occupiedfor similar purposes; and

906.3 Approval. Portable fire extinguishers shallbear the label of an approved agency, be of anapproved type and be installed in a location visibleand available to the occupants.

780 CMR 907.0 FIRE ALARM AND

DETECTION SYSTEMS

907.1 General. 780 CMR 907.0 covers theapplication, installation, performance andmaintenance of fire alarm systems and theircomponents.

907.1.1 Construction Documents.

907.1.1.1 Construction documents required toaccompany an application for a building permitshall include, but not be limited to, all of thefollowing:

1. Narrative reporta. Basis (methodology) of design for theprotection of the occupancy and hazardsfor compliance with 780 CMR andapplicable NFPA standards, in the formof a narrative report.b. Sequence of operation of all fireprotection systems and operation in theform of a narrative report.c. Testing criteria to be used for finalsystem acceptance in the form of anarrative report.

2. Dedicated plans that indicate the use ofall rooms and document the location of allfire alarm equipment and devices inaccordance with NFPA 72. The sequencesof operation shall appear on the fire alarmplans as well as the narrative report.3. Fire alarm equipment and device symbollegend.4. Primary Power Connection.5. Details of ceiling height and construc-tion.6. The interface of fire safety controlfunctions7. The location of any equipment or devicesthat directly interface with the fire alarmsystem.8. Fire alarm system riser diagram.

907.1.1.2 Construction Documents RequiredPrior to the Installation of Fire AlarmEquipment or Devices. In addition to thedocuments shall be included but not be limitedto:

1. Manufacturers, models numbers andlisting information for equipment, devicesand materials.2. Circuitry layout, conductor types andsizes.3. Voltage drop calculations4. Battery calculations




5. Any amendments to the documentsprovided under 780 CMR 907.1.1.1.

907.1.1.3 Construction documents requiredprior to acceptance testing of fire alarmequipment or devices shall include but not belimited to:

1. as built plans2. Input/output matrix3. Any amendments to the documentsprovided under 780 CMR 907.1.1.1 and907.1.1.2

907.1.2 Equipment. Systems and theircomponents shall be listed or approved by anationally recognized testing laboratory for thepurpose for which they are installed.

907.2 Where Required. Manual, automatic ormanual and automatic fire alarm system shall beprovided in accordance with 780 CMR 907.2.1through 907.2.23. Where automatic sprinklerprotection, installed in accordance with 780 CMR903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, is provided and connected tothe building fire alarm system, automatic heatdetection required by 780 CMR 907.2 shall not berequired. An automatic fire detection system shallbe installed in accordance with the provisions of780 CMR and NFPA 72. Devices, combinations ofdevices, appliances and equipment shall comply with780 CMR 907.1.2. The automatic fire detectorsshall be smoke detectors, except that an alternativetype of detector shall be installed in spaces such asboiler rooms where, during normal operation,products of combustion are present in sufficientquantity to actuate a smoke detector.

907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system,consisting of a fire alarm control panel, manualfire alarm boxes (pull stations) and audible andvisual alarm notification appliances shall beinstalled in accordance with NFPA 72 in Group Aoccupancies having an occupant load of 50 ormore. Portions of Group E occupancies occupiedfor assembly purposes shall be provided with afire alarm system as required for the Group Eoccupancy.

907.2.1.1 System Initiation in Group aOccupancies with an Occupant Load of 300or More. Activation of the fire alarm in GroupA occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000or more shall initiate a signal using anemergency voice/alarm communicationssystem in accordance with NFPA 72.

Where the head of the fire department or his/her designee determines that partial orselective evacuation is not desired, but rathertotal evacuation is required, then a distinctivesignal in lieu of a voice alarm is permitted.

907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm systemshall be installed in Group B occupancies havingan occupant load of 500 or more persons or morethan 100 persons above or below the lowest level

of exit discharge.

907.2.3 Group E. A manual and automatic firealarm system with emergency voice/alarmcapabilities in accordance with 907.2.12.2 shall beinstalled in Group E occupancies. Whenautomatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectorsare installed, such systems or detectors shall beconnected to the building fire alarm system.

Exceptions:1. Group E occupancies with an occupant loadof less than 50.2. Buildings equipped throughout with anautomatic sprinkler system are not required tobe equipped with an automatic fire detectionsystem.

907.2.3.1 Where an automatic system isrequired the automatic detectors shall be smokedetectors. Coverage shall be in accordancewith NFPA 72.

907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm systemshall be installed in Group F occupancies that aretwo or more stories in height and have anoccupant load of 500 or more above or below thelowest level of exit discharge.

907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm systemshall be installed in Group H5 occupancies and inoccupancies used for the manufacture of organiccoatings. An automatic smoke detection systemshall be installed for highly toxic gases, organicperoxides and oxidizers.

907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system andan automatic fire detection system shall beinstalled in Group I occupancies. An automaticsmoke detection system shall be provided inwaiting areas that are open to corridors.

Exception. Manual fire alarm boxes in patientsleeping areas of Group I-1 and I-2 occupanciesshall not be required at exits if located at allnurses’ control stations or other constantlyattended staff locations, provided such stationsare visible and continuously accessible and thattravel distances required in 780 CMR 907.3.1are not exceeded.

907.2.6.1 Group I-2. Corridors in nursinghomes (both intermediate-care and skillednursing facilities), detoxification facilities andspaces open to the corridors shall be equippedwith an automatic fire detection system.

Exceptions:1. Corridor smoke detection is not requiredin smoke compartments that contain patientsleeping rooms where patient sleeping unitsare provided with smoke detectors thatcomply with UL 268. Such detectors shallprovide a visual display on the corridor sideof each patient sleeping unit and an audibleand visual alarm at the nursing stationattending each unit.




2. Corridor smoke detection is not required insmoke compartments that contain patientsleeping rooms where patient sleeping unitdoors are equipped with automatic door-closing devices with integral smoke detectorson the unit sides installed in accordance withtheir listing, provided that the integral detectorsperform the required alerting function.

907.2.6.2 Group I-3. Group I-3 occupanciesshall be equipped with a manual and automaticfire alarm system installed for alerting staff.

907.2.6.2.1 System Initiation. Actuation ofan automatic fire-extinguishing system, amanual fire alarm box or a fire detector shallinitiate an approved fire alarm signal whichautomatically notifies staff. Presignalsystems shall not be used.

907.2.6.2.2 Manual Fire Alarm Boxes.Manual fire alarm boxes are not required tobe located in accordance with 780 CMR907.3 where the fire alarm boxes areprovided at staff-attended locations havingdirect supervision over areas where manualfire alarm boxes have been omitted. Manualfire alarm boxes shall be permitted to belocked in areas occupied by detainees,provided that staff members are presentwithin the subject area and have keys readilyavailable to operate the manual fire alarmboxes.

907.2.6.2.3 Smoke Detectors. An approvedautomatic smoke detection system shall beinstalled throughout resident housing areas,including sleeping areas and contiguous dayrooms, group activity spaces and othercommon spaces normally accessible toresidents.

Exception. Other approved smokedetection arrangements providingequivalent protection including, but notlimited to, placing detectors in exhaustducts from cells or behind protectiveguards listed for the purpose are allowedwhen necessary to prevent damage ortampering.

907.2.7 Group M. A manual fire alarm systemshall be installed in Group M occupancies havingan occupant load of 500 or more persons or morethan 100 persons above or below the lowest levelof exit discharge.

Exception. Manual fire alarm boxes are notrequired if the building is equipped throughoutwith an automatic sprinkler system and thealarm notification appliances will activate uponsprinkler water flow.

907.2.7.1 Occupant Notification. Duringtimes that the building is occupied, in lieu ofthe automatic activation of alarm notificationappliances, the manual fire alarm system shallbe allowed to activate an alarm signal at aconstantly attended location from whichevacuation instructions shall be initiated overan emergency voice/alarm communicationsystem installed in accordance with 780 CMR907.2.12.2. The emergency voice/alarmcommunication system shall be allowed to beused for other announcements, provided themanual fire alarm use takes precedence overany other use.

907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems shall beinstalled in Group R-1 occupancies as required in780 CMR 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3 and inaccordance with Table 907.2.8.

TABLE 907.2.8 - RESIDENTIAL FIREPROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

Use

Group

Number

of Units

Unit Occupant

Protection

Other Occupant

Protection

Standby

Power

Manual

StationsZoned

Provision for Fire

Department Notification

R-3 1 or 2 Yes Note a. Yes N.A. N.A. N.A.

R-1 3 to 12 Yes Yes Yes Yes N.A. N.A.

R-2 3 to 12 Yes Yes Yes Yes N.A. N. A.

R-1 13 or more Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

R-2 13 or more Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Note a: Where common areas exist.




907.2.8.1 Manual Fire Alarm System. Amanual fire alarm system shall be installed inGroup R-1 occupancies.

Exception. A manual fire alarm system isnot required in buildings not over two storiesin height where all individual guestroomsand contiguous attic and crawl spaces areseparated from each other and public orcommon areas by at least one-hour firepartitions and each individual guestroom hasan exit directly to a public way, exit court oryard.

907.2.8.2 Automatic Fire Alarm System. Anautomatic fire alarm system shall be installedthroughout all interior corridors servingguestrooms.

Exception. An automatic fire detectionsystem is not required in buildings that donot have interior corridors servingguestrooms and each guestroom has a meansof egress door opening directly to an exteriorexit access that leads directly to an exit.

907.2.8.3 Smoke Alarms. Smoke alarms shallbe installed as required by 780 CMR 907.2.10.In buildings that are not equipped throughoutwith an automatic sprinkler system installed inaccordance with 780 CMR 903.3.1.1 or903.3.1.2, the smoke alarms in guestroomsshall be connected to an emergency electricalsystem and shall be annunciated by guestroomat a constantly attended location from whichthe fire alarm system is capable of beingmanually activated.

780 CMR 907.2.8 shall not preclude theinstallation of a fully addressable fire alarmsystem where system detectors and alarmnotifications devices can perform the functionsas required in 780 CMR 907.2.10.

907.2.9 Group R-2. A manual fire alarm systemand an automatic fire detection system shall beinstalled in Group R-2 occupancies and inaccordance with Table 907.2.8.

Exception. A manual fire alarm system is notrequired in buildings with 12 or less dwellingunits.

907.2.10 Single- and Multiple-station SmokeAlarms. Listed single- and multiple-stationphotoelectric type smoke alarms shall be installedin accordance with the provisions of 780 CMRand the household fire-warning equipmentprovisions of NFPA 72.

907.2.10.1 Where Required. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall be installedin the locations described in 780 CMR907.2.10.1.1 through 907.2.10.1.4.

907.2.10.1.1 Group R-1. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall beinstalled in all of the following locations in

Group R-1:1. In sleeping areas.2. In every room in the path of themeans of egress from the sleeping area tothe door leading from the sleeping unit.3. In each story within the sleeping unit,including basements. For sleeping unitswith split levels and without anintervening door between the adjacentlevels, a smoke alarm installed on theupper level shall suffice for the adjacentlower level provided that the lower levelis less than one full story below the upperlevel.

907.2.10.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1.Single- or multiple-station smoke alarmsshall be installed and maintained in GroupsR-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1, regardless of occupantload at all of the following locations:

1. On the ceiling or wall outside of eachseparate sleeping area in the immediatevicinity of bedrooms.2. In each room used for sleepingpurposes.3. each story within a dwelling unit,including basements but not includingcrawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. Indwellings or dwelling units with splitlevels and without an intervening doorbetween the adjacent levels, a smokealarm installed on the upper level shallsuffice for the adjacent lower levelprovided that the lower level is less thanone full story below the upper level.

907.2.10.1.3 Group I-1. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall beinstalled and maintained in sleeping areas inoccupancies in Group I-1. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall not berequired where the building is equippedthroughout with an automatic fire detectionsystem in accordance with 780 CMR907.2.6.

907.2.10.1.4 Other Sleeping Areas. Anyarea intended or used for sleeping purposesand occupants are capable of self-preservation.”

907.2.10.2 Power Source. In newconstruction, required smoke alarms shallreceive their primary power from the buildingwiring where such wiring is served from acommercial source and shall be equipped witha battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit asignal when the batteries are low. Wiring shallbe permanent and without a disconnectingswitch other than as required for overcurrentprotection.




Exception. Smoke alarms are not requiredto be equipped with battery backup in GroupR-1 where they are connected to anemergency electrical system.

907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more thanone smoke alarm is required to be installedwithin an individual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or within an individual dwellingunit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smokealarms shall be interconnected in such amanner that the activation of one alarm willactivate all of the alarms in the individual unit.The alarm shall be clearly audible in allbedrooms over background noise levels withall intervening doors closed.

907.2.10.4 Acceptance Testing. When theinstallation of the alarm devices is complete,each detector and interconnecting wiring formultiple-station alarm devices shall be tested inaccordance with the household fire warningequipment provisions of NFPA 72.

907.2.11 Special Amusement Buildings. Anapproved automatic smoke detection system shallbe provided in special amusement buildings inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.2.

Exception. In areas where ambient conditionswill cause a smoke detection system to alarm,an approved alternative type of automaticdetector shall be installed.

907.2.11.1 Alarm. Activation of any singlesmoke detector, the automatic sprinkler systemor any other automatic fire detection deviceshall immediately sound an alarm at thebuilding at a constantly attended location fromwhich emergency action can be initiated,including the capability of manual initiation ofrequirements in 780 CMR 907.2.11.2.

907.2.11.2 System Response. The activationof two or more smoke detectors, a singlesmoke detector with alarm verification, theautomatic sprinkler system or other approvedfire detection device shall automatically:

1. Cause illumination of the means ofegress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level;2. Stop any conflicting or confusing soundsand visual distractions; and3. Activate an approved directional exitmarking that will become apparent in anemergency. Such system response shall alsoinclude activation of a prerecorded message,clearly audible throughout the specialamusement building, instructing patrons toproceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signalsused in conjunction with the prerecordedmessage shall produce a sound which isdistinctive from other sounds used duringnormal operation. The wiring to theauxiliary devices and equipment used to

accomplish the above fire safety functionsshall be monitored for integrity inaccordance with NFPA 72.

907.2.11.3 Emergency Voice/AlarmCommunication System. An emergencyvoice/alarm communication system, which isalso allowed to serve as a public addresssystem, shall be installed in accordance withNFPA 72, and shall be audible throughout theentire special amusement building.

907.2.12 High-rise Buildings. Buildings havingfloors used for human occupancy located morethan 70 feet above grade plane shall be providedwith an automatic fire alarm system and anemergency voice/alarm communication system inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.2.12.2. Note.Also see 780 CMR 403.0.

Exceptions:1. Airport traffic control towers in accordancewith 780 CMR 412.0 and 907.2.22.2 Open parking garages in accordance with780 CMR 406.3.3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5.4. Low-hazard special occupancies inaccordance with 780 CMR 503.1.2.5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1,H-2 or H-3 in accordance with 780 CMR 415.

907.2.12.1 Automatic Fire Detection. Smokedetectors shall be provided in accordancewith780 CMR 907.2.12. Smoke detectors shallbe connected to an automatic fire alarm system.The activation of any detector required by780 CMR 907.2.12 shall operate theemergency voice/alarm communication system.Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:

1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical,transformer, telephone equipment or similarroom which is not provided with sprinklerprotection, elevator machine rooms and inelevator lobbies.2. In the main return air and exhaust airplenum of each air-conditioning systemhaving a capacity greater than 2,000 cubicfeet per minute (cfm) (0.94 m /s). Such3

detectors shall be located in a serviceablearea downstream of the last duct inlet.3. At each connection to a vertical duct orriser serving two or more stories from areturn air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2occupancies a listed smoke detector isallowed to be used in each return air risercarrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m /s)3

and serving not more than 10 air inletopenings.

907.2.12.2 Emergency Voice/AlarmCommunication System. The operation ofany automatic fire detector, sprinkler water-flow device or manual fire alarm box shall




automatically sound an alert tone followed byvoice instructions giving approved informationand directions on a general or selective basis tothe following terminal areas on a minimum ofthe alarming floor, the floor above and the floorbelow:

1. Elevator lobbies.2. Corridors.3. Rooms and tenant spaces exceeding1,000 square feet (93 m ) in area.2

4. Dwelling units or sleeping units inGroup R-2 occupancies.5. Sleeping units in Group R-1occupancies.6. Areas of refuge as defined in 780 CMR1002.0.7. All habitable areas of use group E.

Exception. In Group I-1 and I-2occupancies, the alarm shall sound in aconstantly attended area and a generaloccupant notification shall be broadcastover the overhead page.

907.2.12.2.1 Manual Override. A manualo v er r i de fo r e m e rge n c y v o i c ecommunication shall be provided for allpaging zones.

907.2.12.2.2 Live Voice Messages. Theemergency voice/alarm communicationsystem shall also have the capability tobroadcast live voice messages throughspeakers located in elevators, exit stairwaysand throughout a selected floor or floors.

907.2.12.2.3 Standard. The emergencyvoice/alarm communication system shall bedesigned and installed in accordance withNFPA 72.

907.2.12.2.4 The sequence of operation ofthe voice alarm signaling system shall be asfollows:

1. sound an alert (pre-signal) tone (thealert tone shall be a 900 hertz tone pulsedto produce one round of code 4 atapproximately one second intervals.2. Activate the recorded messageregarding the evacuation procedure. Thealarm and communications system shallprovide a pre-recorded message to allrequired areas. The message shall containthe following information. “attentionplease. The signal tone you have justheard indicated a report of an emergencyin this building. If your floor evacuationsignal sounds after this message, walk tothe nearest stairway and leave the floor.While the report is being verified,occupants on other floors should awaitfurther instructions.”

This message shall be transmitted Threetimes.

A female voice shall be used for thismessage.3. Activate the evacuation signal on thefloor of incident and the next floor aboveand below

Exception. Alternatives to therequirements of 780 CMR 907.2.12when part of an approved fire safetyand evacuation plan in accordance with527 CMR 10.13

907.2.12.3 Fire Department CommunicationSystem. An approved two-way, firedepartment communication system designedand installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shallbe provided for fire department use. It shalloperate between a fire command centercomplying with 780 CMR 911.0 and elevators,elevator lobbies, emergency and standby powerrooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge andinside enclosed exit stairways. The firedepartment communication device shall beprovided at each floor level within the enclosedstairway.

Exception. Fire department radio systemswhere approved by the fire department.

907.2.13 Atriums Connecting More than TwoStories. A fire alarm system shall be installed inoccupancies with an atrium that connects morethan two stories. The system shall be activated inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.7. Suchoccupancies in Group A, E or M shall be providedwith an emergency voice/alarm communicationsystem complying with the requirements of780 CMR 907.2.12.2.

907.2.14 High-piled Combustible StorageAreas. An automatic fire detection system shallbe installed throughout high-piled combustiblestorage areas greater than 500 square feet.

Exception. Buildings protected throughoutwith automatic sprinklers.

907.2.15 Delayed Egress Locks. Where delayedegress locks are installed on means of egressdoors in accordance with 780 CMR 1008.1.8.6, anautomatic smoke or heat detection system shall beinstalled as required by 780 CMR 1008.1.8.6.

907.2.16 Aerosol Storage Uses. Aerosol storagerooms and general-purpose warehousescontaining aerosols shall be provided with anapproved manual fire alarm system whererequired by the International Fire Code and527 CMR.

907.2.17 Lumber, Plywood and Veneer Mills.Lumber, plywood and veneer mills shall beprovided with a manual fire alarm system.

907.2.18 Underground Buildings with SmokeExhaust System. Where a smoke exhaust systemis installed in an underground building inaccordance with 780 CMR, automatic fire




detectors shall be provided in accordance with780 CMR 907.2.

907.2.18.1 Smoke Detectors. A minimum ofone smoke detector listed for the intendedpurpose shall be installed in the followingareas:

1. Mechanical equipment, electrical,transformer, telephone equipment, elevatormachine or similar rooms.2. Elevator lobbies.3. The main return and exhaust air plenumof each air-conditioning system servingmore than one story and located in aserviceable area downstream of the last ductinlet.4. Each connection to a vertical duct orriser serving two or more floors from returnair ducts or plenums of heating, ventilatingand air-conditioning systems, except that inGroup R occupancies, a listed smokedetector is allowed to be used in each returnair riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm(2.4 m /s) and serving not more than 10 air3

inlet openings.

907.2.18.2 Alarm Required. Activation of thesmoke exhaust system shall activate an audiblealarm at a constantly attended location andactivate the alarm notification appliancesthroughout the building in accordance with907.10.

907.2.19 Underground Buildings. Where thelowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18288 mm) below the lowest level of exit discharge,the structure shall be equipped throughout with amanual fire alarm system, including an emergencyvoice/alarm communication system installed inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.2.12.2.

907.2.19.1 Public Address System. Where afire alarm system is not required by 780 CMR907.2, a public address system shall beprovided that shall be capable of transmittingvoice communications to the highest level ofexit discharge serving the underground portionsof the structure and all levels below.

907.2.20 Covered Mall Buildings. Covered mallbuildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m )2

in total floor area shall be provided with anemergency voice/alarm communication system.An emergency voice/alarm communication systemserving a mall, required or otherwise, shall beaccessible to the fire department. The systemshall be provided in accordance with 780 CMR907.2.12.2.

907.2.21 Residential Aircraft Hangars. Aminimum of one listed heat detector shall beinstalled within a residential aircraft hangar asdefined in 780 CMR 412.3.1 and shall beinterconnected into the residential smoke alarm orother sounding device to provide an alarm that

will be audible in all sleeping areas of thedwelling.

907.2.22 Airport Traffic Control Towers. Anautomatic fire detection system shall be providedin airport traffic control towers.

907.2.23 Battery Rooms. An approved automaticsmoke detection system shall be installed in areascontaining stationary lead-acid battery systemshaving a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons(189.3 L). The detection system shall besupervised by an approved central, proprietary orremote station service or a local alarm that willsound an audible signal at a constantly attendedlocation.

907.2.24 Buildings with Sleeping Areas. Anautomatic smoke detection system shall beprovided for all sleeping areas, and means ofegress from sleeping areas, of occupants notcapable of self preservation in buildings nototherwise required to have smoke detectors by780 CMR 907.2.1 through 780 CMR 907.2.23where any space is used for sleeping purposes. Automatic smoke detection shall also be providedfor sleeping areas where the occupants are notcapable of self-preservation.”

907.3 Manual Fire Alarm Boxes. Manual firealarm boxes shall be installed in accordance with780 CMR 907.3.1 through 907.3.5.

907.3.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shallbe located not more than five feet (1524 mm)from the entrance to each exit. Additional manualfire alarm boxes shall be located so that traveldistance to the nearest box does not exceed 200feet (60 960 mm).

907.3.2 Height. The height of the manual firealarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches(1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219mm), measured vertically, from the floor level tothe activating handle or lever of the box.

907.3.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall bered in color.

907.3.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are notmonitored by a supervising station, an approvedpermanent sign that reads: WHEN ALARMSOUNDS—CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT shall beinstalled adjacent to each manual fire alarm box.

Exception. Where the manufacturer haspermanently provided this information on themanual fire alarm box.

907.3.5 Protective Covers. The building officialor fire official is authorized to require theinstallation of listed manual fire alarm boxprotective covers to prevent malicious falsealarms or provide the manual fire alarm box withprotection from physical damage. The protectivecover shall be transparent or red in color with atransparent face to permit visibility of the manualfire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper




operating instructions. A protective cover that emitsa local alarm signal shall not be installed unlessapproved.

907.4 Power Supply. The primary and secondarypower supplies for the fire alarm system shall beprovided in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.5 Wiring. Wiring shall comply with therequirements of 527 CMR 12.00 and NFPA 72.Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with thespecial requirements for supervision of low-powerwireless systems in NFPA 72.

907.6 Activation. Where an alarm notificationsystem is required by another section of 780 CMR,it shall be activated by:

1. A required automatic fire alarm system.2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.3. Required manual fire alarm boxes.4. Other approved types of automatic fire detec-tion devices, extinguishing, or suppressionsystems.

907.7 Presignal System. Presignal systems shall notbe installed unless approved by the building officialand the fire department. Where a presignal systemis installed, 24-hour personnel supervision shall beprovided at a location approved by the firedepartment, in order that the alarm signal can beactuated in the event of fire or other emergency.

907.8 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separatelyand a zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090m ). The length of any zone shall not exceed 3002

feet (91 440 mm) in any direction.

Exception. Automatic sprinkler system zonesshall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.

907.8.1 Zoning Indicator Panel. A zoningindicator panel and the associated controls shallbe provided in an approved location. The visualzone indication shall lock in until the system isreset and shall not be canceled by the operation ofan audible alarm-silencing switch.

907.8.2 High-rise Buildings. In buildings morethan 70 feet in height above grade plane a separatezone by floor shall be provided for all of thefollowing types of alarm-initiating devices whereprovided:

1. Smoke detectors.2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.3. Manual fire alarm boxes.4. Other approved types of automatic fire de-tection devices or suppression systems.

907.9 Alarm Notification Appliances. Alarmnotification appliances shall be provided and shall belisted for their purpose.

907.9.1 Visible Alarms. Visible alarmnotification appliances shall be provided inaccordance with 780 CMR 907.9.1.1 through

907.9.1.3 (also refer to 521 CMR requirements forvisible alarms requirements in buildings orportions thereof, open to the public).

Exceptions:1. Visible alarm notification appliances arenot required in alterations, except where anexisting fire alarm system is upgraded orreplaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed(also refer to 521 CMR requirements forvisible alarms requirements in buildings orportions thereof, open to the public).2. Visible alarm notification appliances shallnot be required in exits as defined in 780 CMR1002.1 (also refer to 521 CMR requirementsfor visible alarms requirements in buildings orportions thereof, open to the public).

907.9.1.1 Public and Common Areas.Visible alarm notification appliances shall beprovided in public areas and common areas(also refer to 521 CMR requirements forvisible alarms requirements in buildings orportions thereof, open to the public).

907.9.1.2 Employee Work Areas. Whereemployee work areas have audible alarmcoverage, the wiring systems shall be designedso that visible alarm notification appliances canbe integrated into the alarm system.

907.9.1.3 Groups I and R. Refer to 521 CMRfor requirements for visible alarms in Group Iand R sleeping units – such visible alarmnotification appliances shall activated by boththe in-room smoke alarm and the buildingfire alarm system.

907.9.1.4 Group R-2. In Group R-2occupancies required by 780 CMR 907.0 tohave a fire alarm system, all dwelling units andsleeping units shall be provided with thecapability to support visible alarm notificationappliances in accordance with ICC A117.1.

907.9.2 Audible Alarms. Audible alarmnotification appliances shall be provided and shallsound a distinctive sound that is not to be used forany purpose other than that of a fire alarm. Theaudible alarm notification appliances shall providea sound pressure level in accordance with NFPA72. Where the average ambient noise is greaterthan 105 dBA, visible alarm notificationappliances shall be provided in accordance withNFPA 72 and audible alarm notificationappliances shall not be required.

Exception. Visible alarm notificationappliances shall be allowed in lieu of audiblealarm notification appliances in critical-careareas of Group I-2 occupancies.

907.10 Fire Safety Functions. Automatic firedetectors utilized for the purpose of performing firesafety functions shall be connected to the building’sfire alarm control panel where a fire alarm system is




required by 780 CMR 907.2. Detectors shall, uponactuation, perform the intended function and activatethe alarm notification appliances and where provideda visible and audible supervisory signal at aconstantly attended location. In buildings notrequired to be equipped with a fire alarm system, theautomatic fire detector shall be powered by normalelectrical service and, upon actuation, perform theintended function. The detectors shall be located inaccordance with NFPA 72.

907.11 Duct Smoke Detectors. Duct smokedetectors shall be connected to the building’s firealarm control panel when a fire alarm system isprovided. Activation of a duct smoke detector shallinitiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at aconstantly attended location. Duct smoke detectorsshall not be used as a substitute for required open-area detection.

Exceptions:1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attendedlocation is not required where duct smokedetectors activate the building’s alarm notificationappliances.2. In occupancies not required to be equippedwith a fire alarm system, actuation of a smokedetector shall activate a visible and audible signalin an approved location. Smoke detector troubleconditions shall activate a visible or audible signalin an approved location and shall be identified asair duct detector trouble.3. Duct smoke detectors may be used as asubstitute for an open area protection inaccordance 780 CMR 907.2.6.2.3

907.12 Access. Access shall be provided to eachdetector for periodic inspection, maintenance andtesting.

907.13 Fire-extinguishing Systems. Automaticfire-extinguishing systems shall be connected to thebuilding fire alarm system where a fire alarm systemis required by another section of 780 CMR or isotherwise installed.

907.14 Supervising.

907.14.1 Re-transmission of Alarm SignalsReceived by Central Stations and Received byThose Operating Approved Remote StationFire Alarm System Supervising Stations. In allcases, central stations and those operatingapproved remote station fire alarm systemsupervising stations shall re-transmit alarm signalswithin 90 seconds of receipt, to the firedepartment having jurisdiction.

907.14.2 Fire Suppression Systems. Allautomatic fire suppression systems required by780 CMR shall be supervised by one of thefollowing methods in 780 CMR 907.14.2 Items 1.through 3.

1. A UL listed or FM approved CentralStation Service in accordance with NFPA 72

listed in 780 CMR 35.00.2. a. Approved propriety supervising station

system, in accordance with NFPA 72 inaccordance with NFPA 72 as listed in780 CMR 35.00.b. Approved remote station fire alarmsystem supervising station in accordancewith NFPA 72 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

3. Alarm signals to an approved AuxiliaryFire Alarm System in accordance withNFPA 72, with supervisory signals supervisedby one or two above or at a constantly attendedlocation approved by the local fire department,having personnel on duty trained to recognizethe type of signal received and to takeprescribed action. This shall be permitted tobe a location different from that at which alarmsignals are received.

Exceptions:1. Underground gate valves with roadwayboxes.2. Halogenated extinguishing systems thatare not an integral part of a requiredautomatic fire suppression system.3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systemsthat are not an integral part of a requiredautomatic fire suppression system.4. Dry- and wet- chemical extinguishingsystems5. Limited area sprinkler systems (see 780CMR 903.3.5.1.1)6. Occupancies in use group R containingless than 13 dwelling units, no more thanfour stories in height and equipped with asuppression system conforming to NFPAand supervised in accordance with NFPA13R listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

907.14.3 Fire Protective Signaling Systems andAutomatic Fire Detection Systems. All fireprotective signaling systems and automatic firedetection systems required by 780 CMR shall besupervised by one of the following methodsbelow:

1. A UL listed or FM approved CentralStation Service in accordance with NFPA 72 aslisted 780 CMR 35.00.2. a. Approved propriety supervising station

system, in accordance with NFPA 72 aslisted in 780 CMR 35.00.b. Approved remote station fire alarmsystem supervising station in accordancewith NFPA 72 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

3. Alarm signals to an approved AuxiliaryFire Alarm System in accordance withNFPA 72, with supervisory signals supervisedby one or two above or at a constantly attendedlocation approved by the local fire department,having personnel on duty trained to recognizethe type of signal received and to takeprescribed action. This shall be permitted to




be a location different from that at which alarmsignals are received.

Exceptions:1. For use group R see Table 907.2.82. Single- and multi-station detectors asrequired by 780 CMR 5303.133. Smoke detectors in occupancies in usegroup I-3.4. Smoke detectors in patient sleepingrooms in occupancies in Use Group I-2 (see780 CMR 407.6).

907.14.4 Group H. Emergency alarm systems inGroup H occupancies shall be monitored by anapproved supervising station.

Exception. When approved by the Head of theFire Department, on-site monitoring at aconstantly attended location shall be permittedprovided that notifications to the firedepartment will be equal to those provided byan approved supervising station.

907.15 Automatic Telephone-dialing Devices.Automatic telephone-dialing devices used totransmit an emergency alarm shall not be connectedto any fire department telephone number unlessapproved by the fire chief.

907.16 Acceptance Tests. Upon completion of theinstallation of the fire alarm system, alarmnotification appliances and circuits, alarm-initiatingdevices and circuits, supervisory-signal initiatingdevices and circuits, signaling line circuits, andprimary and secondary power supplies shall be testedin accordance with NFPA 72.

907.17 Record of Completion. A record ofcompletion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifyingthat the system has been installed in accordance withthe approved plans and specifications shall beprovided.

907.18 Instructions. Operating, testing andmaintenance instructions, and record drawings (“asbuilts”) and equipment specifications shall beprovided at an approved location.

907.19 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance. Themaintenance and testing schedules and proceduresfor fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be inaccordance with NFPA 72.

780 CMR 908.0 EMERGENCY ALARM

SYSTEMS

908.1 Group H Occupancies. Emergency alarmsfor the detection and notification of an emergencycondition in Group H occupancies shall be providedin accordance with 780 CMR 414.7.

908.2 Group H-5 Occupancy. Emergency alarmsfor notification of an emergency condition in anHPM facility shall be provided as required in780 CMR 415.9.4.6. A continuous gas-detection

system shall be provided for HPM gases inaccordance with 780 CMR 415.9.7.

908.3 Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials. A gasdetection system shall be provided for indoor storageand use of highly toxic and toxic gases to detect thepresence of gas at or below the permissible exposurelimit (PEL) or ceiling limit of the gas for whichdetection is provided. The system shall be capableof monitoring the discharge from the treatmentsystem at or below one-half the IDLH limit.

Exception. A gas detection system is not requiredfor toxic gases when the physiological warningproperties are at a level below the accepted PELfor the gas.

908.3.1 Alarms. The gas detection system shallinitiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to aconstantly attended control station when a short-term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shallbe both visible and audible and shall providewarning both inside and outside the area wheregas is detected. The audible alarm shall bedistinct from all other alarms.

Exception. Signal transmission to aconstantly attended control station is notrequired when not more than one cylinder ofhighly toxic or toxic gas is stored.

908.3.2 Shutoff of Gas Supply. The gasdetection system shall automatically close theshutoff valve at the source on gas supply pipingand tubing related to the system being monitoredfor whichever gas is detected.

Exception. Automatic shutdown is notrequired for reactors utilized for the productionof highly toxic or toxic compressed gaseswhere such reactors are:1. Operated at pressures less than 15 poundsper square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa).2. Constantly attended.3. Provided with readily accessible emergencyshutoff valves.

908.3.3 Valve Closure. The automatic closure ofshutoff valves shall be in accordance with thefollowing:

1. When the gas-detection sampling pointinitiating the gas detection system alarm iswithin a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, theshutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhaustedenclosure for the specific gas detected shallautomatically close.2. Where the gas-detection sampling pointinitiating the gas detection system alarm iswithin a gas room and compressed gascontainers are not in gas cabinets or exhaustedenclosures, the shutoff valves on all gas linesfor the specific gas detected shall automaticallyclose.




3. Where the gas-detection sampling pointinitiating the gas detection system alarm iswithin a piping distribution manifoldenclosure, the shutoff valve for the compressedcontainer of specific gas detected supplying themanifold shall automatically close.

Exception. When the gas-detection samp-ling point initiating the gas-detection systemalarm is at a use location or within a gasvalve enclosure of a branch line downstreamof a piping distribution manifold, the shutoffvalve in the gas valve enclosure for thebranch line located in the piping distributionmanifold enclosure shall automatically close.

908.4 Ozone Gas-generator Rooms. Ozone gas-generator rooms shall be equipped with a continuousgas-detection system that will shut off the generatorand sound a local alarm when concentrations abovethe PEL occur.

908.5 Repair Garages. A flammable-gas detectionsystem shall be provided in repair garages forvehicles fueled by nonodorized gases in accordancewith 780 CMR 406.6.6.

908.6 Refrigerant Detector. Machinery roomsshall contain a refrigerant detector with an audibleand visual alarm. The detector, or a sampling tubethat draws air to the detector, shall be located in anarea where refrigerant from a leak will concentrate.The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greaterthan the corresponding TLV-TWA values for therefrigerant classification indicated in theInternational Mechanical Code. Detectors andalarms shall be placed in approved locations.

Exception. Detectors are not required inammonia system machinery rooms equipped witha vapor detector in accordance with theInternational Mechanical Code.

780 CMR 909.0 SMOKE CONTROL

SYSTEMS

909.1 Scope and Purpose. 780 CMR 909.0 appliesto mechanical or passive smoke control systemswhen they are required by other provisions of780 CMR. The purpose of 780 CMR 909.0 is toestablish minimum requirements for the design,installation and acceptance testing of smoke controlsystems that are intended to provide a tenableenvironment for the evacuation or relocation ofoccupants. These provisions are not intended for thepreservation of contents, the timely restoration ofoperations or for assistance in fire suppression oroverhaul activities. Smoke control systems regulatedby 780 CMR 909.0 serve a different purpose than thesmoke- and heat-venting provisions found in780 CMR 910.0. Mechanical smoke control systemsshall not be considered exhaust systems under

Chapter 5 of the International Mechanical Code.

909.2 General Design Requirements. Buildings,structures or parts thereof required by 780 CMR tohave a smoke control system or systems shall havesuch systems designed in accordance with theapplicable requirements of 780 CMR 909.0 and thegenerally accepted and well-established principles ofengineering relevant to the design. The constructiondocuments shall include sufficient information anddetail to adequately describe the elements of thedesign necessary for the proper implementation ofthe smoke control systems. These documents shallbe accompanied by sufficient information andanalysis to demonstrate compliance with theseprovisions.

909.3 Special Inspection and Test Requirements.In addition to the ordinary inspection and testrequirements which buildings, structures and partsthereof are required to undergo, smoke controlsystems subject to the provisions of 780 CMR 909.0shall undergo special inspections and tests sufficientto verify the proper commissioning of the smokecontrol design in its final installed condition. Thedesign submission accompanying the constructiondocuments shall clearly detail procedures andmethods to be used and the items subject to suchinspections and tests. Such commissioning shall bein accordance with generally accepted engineeringpractice and, where possible, based on publishedstandards for the particular testing involved.

909.4 Analysis. A rational analysis supporting thetypes of smoke control systems to be employed, theirmethods of operation, the systems supporting themand the methods of construction to be utilized shallaccompany the submitted construction documentsand shall include, but not be limited to, the itemsindicated in 780 CMR 909.4.1 through 909.4.6.

909.4.1 Stack Effect. The system shall bedesigned such that the maximum probable normalor reverse stack effect will not adversely interferewith the system’s capabilities. In determining themaximum probable stack effect, altitude,elevation, weather history and interiortemperatures shall be used.

909.4.2 Temperature Effect of Fire. Buoyancyand expansion caused by the design fire inaccordance with 780 CMR 909.9 shall beanalyzed. The system shall be designed such thatthese effects do not adversely interfere with thesystem’s capabilities.

909.4.3 Wind Effect. The design shall considerthe adverse effects of wind. Such considerationshall be consistent with the wind-loadingprovisions of 780 CMR 16.00.




909.4.4 HVAC Systems. The design shallconsider the effects of the heating, ventilating andair-conditioning (HVAC) systems on both smokeand fire transport. The analysis shall include allpermutations of systems status. The design shallconsider the effects of the fire on the HVACsystems.

909.4.5 Climate. The design shall consider theeffects of low temperatures on systems, propertyand occupants. Air inlets and exhausts shall belocated so as to prevent snow or ice blockage.

909.4.6 Duration of Operation. All portions ofactive or passive smoke control systems shall becapable of continued operation after detection ofthe fire event for not less than 20 minutes.

909.5 Smoke Barrier Construction. Smokebarriers shall comply with 780 CMR 709, and shallbe constructed and sealed to limit leakage areasexclusive of protected openings. The maximumallowable leakage area shall be the aggregate areacalculated using the following leakage area ratios:

w1. Walls:A/A = 0.00100

w2. Exit enclosures:A/A = 0.00035

w3. All other shafts:A/A = 0.00150

F4. Floors and roofs:A/A = 0.00050where:

A= Total leakage area, square feet (m ).2

FA = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, squarefeet (m ).2

wA = Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m ).2

The leakage area ratios shown do not includeopenings due to doors, operable windows orsimilar gaps. These shall be included incalculating the total leakage area.

909.5.1 Leakage Area. The total leakage area ofthe barrier is the product of the smoke barriergross area monitored by the allowable leakagearea ratio, plus the area of other openings such asgaps and operable windows. Compliance shall bedetermined by achieving the minimum airpressure difference across the barrier with thesystem in the smoke control mode for mechanicalsmoke control systems. Passive smoke controlsystems shall be tested using approved methodssuch as door fan testing.

909.5.2 Opening Protection. Openings in smokebarriers shall be protected by automatic-closingdevices actuated by the required controls for themechanical smoke control system. Door openingsshall be protected by fire door assembliescomplying with 780 CMR 715.3.3.

Exceptions:1. Passive smoke control systems withautomatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing

service installed in accordance with 780 CMR907.10.2. Fixed openings between smoke zoneswhich are protected utilizing the airflowmethod.3. In Group I-2, where such doors are installedacross corridors, a pair of opposite-swingingdoors without a center mullion shall beinstalled having vision panels with approvedfire-rated glazing materials in approved fire-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceedthat tested. The doors shall be close fittingwithin operational tolerances and shall not haveundercuts, louvers or grilles. The doors shallhave head and jamb stops, astragals or rabbetsat meeting edges, and automatic-closingdevices. Positive-latching devices are notrequired.4. Group I-3.5. Openings between smoke zones with clearceiling heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greaterand bank-down capacity of greater than 20minutes as determined by the design fire size.

909.5.2.1 Ducts and Air Transfer Openings.Ducts and air transfer openings are required tobe protected with a minimum Class II, 250°F(121°C) smoke damper complying with780 CMR 716.0.

909.6 Pressurization Method. The primarymechanical means of controlling smoke shall be bypressure differences across smoke barriers.Maintenance of a tenable environment is notrequired in the smoke control zone of fire origin.

909.6.1 Minimum Pressure Difference. Theminimum pressure difference across a smokebarrier shall be 0.05-inch water gage (0.0124 kPa)in fully sprinklered buildings. In buildingspermitted to be other than fully sprinklered, thesmoke control system shall be designed to achievepressure differences at least two times themaximum calculated pressure difference producedby the design fire.

909.6.2 Maximum Pressure Difference. Themaximum air pressure difference across a smokebarrier shall be determined by required door-opening or closing forces. The actual forcerequired to open exit doors when the system is inthe smoke control mode shall be in accordancewith 780 CMR 1008.1.2. Opening and closingforces for other doors shall be determined bystandard engineering methods for the resolution offorces and reactions. The calculated force to set aside-hinged, swinging door in motion shall bedetermined by Equation 9-1:




Equation 9-1

dcF = F + K(WADP)/2(W- d)

where:A= Door area, square feet (m ).2

d= Distance from door handle to latch edge ofdoor, feet (m).F= Total door opening force, pounds (N).

dcF = Force required to overcome closing device,pounds (N).K= Coefficient 5.2 (1.0).W= Door width, feet (m).DP= Design pressure difference, inches of water(Pa).

909.7 Airflow Design Method. Smoke migrationthrough openings fixed in a permanently openposition, which are located between smoke controlzones by the use of the airflow method, shall bepermitted. The design airflow shall be in accordancewith 780 CMR 909.7. Airflow shall be directed tolimit smoke migration from the fire zone. Thegeometry of openings shall be considered to preventflow reversal from turbulent effects.

909.7.1 Velocity. The minimum average velocitythrough a fixed opening shall not be less than:

Equation 9-2

f o f v = 217.2 [h (T - T )/(T + 460)]½

f o fFor SI: v = 119.9[h (T - T )/T ]½

where:h= Height of opening, feet (m).

fT = Temperature of smoke, °F (°K).

oT = Temperature of ambient air, °F (°K).v= Air velocity, feet per minute (m/minute).

909.7.2 Prohibited Conditions. This methodshall not be employed where either the quantity ofair or the velocity of the airflow will adverselyaffect other portions of the smoke control system,unduly intensify the fire, disrupt plume dynamicsor interfere with exiting. In no case shall airflowtoward the fire exceed 200 feet per minute (1.02m/s). Where the formula in 780 CMR 909.7.1requires airflow to exceed this limit, the airflowmethod shall not be used.

909.8 Exhaust Method. Mechanical smoke controlfor large enclosed volumes, such as in atriums ormalls, shall be permitted to utilize the exhaustmethod. The design exhaust volumes shall be inaccordance with 780 CMR 909.8.

909.8.1 Exhaust Rate. The height of the lowesthorizontal surface of the accumulating smokelayer shall be maintained at least ten feet (3048mm) above any walking surface which forms aportion of a required egress system within thesmoke zone. The required exhaust rate for thezone shall be the largest of the calculated plumemass flow rates for the possible plumeconfigurations. Provisions shall be made fornatural or mechanical supply of air from outside

or adjacent smoke zones to make up for the airexhausted. Makeup airflow rates, when measuredat the potential fire location, shall not exceed 200feet per minute (60 960 mm per minute) towardthe fire. The temperature of the makeup air shallbe such that it does not expose temperature-sensitive fire protection systems beyond theirlimits.

909.8.2 Axisymmetric Plumes. The plume mass

pflow rate (m ), in pounds per second (kg/s), shallbe determined by placing the design fire center onthe axis of the space being analyzed. The limitingflame height shall be determined by:

Equation 9-3

l cz =0.533Q 2/5

l cFor SI:z = 0.166Q 2/5

where:

pm = Plume mass flow rate, pounds per second(kg/s).Q= Total heat output.

cQ = Convective heat output, British thermal

cunits per second (kW). (The value of Q shallnot be taken as less than 0.70Q).z= Height from top of fuel surface to bottom ofsmoke layer, feet (m).

l lz = Limiting flame height, feet (m). The zvalue must be greater than the fuel equivalentdiameter (see 780 CMR 909.9).

lfor z > z

p c cm = 0.022Q z + 0.0042Q1/3 5/3

p c c For SI: m = 0.071 Q z + 0.0018Q1/3 5/3

lfor z = z

p cm = 0.011 Q

p cFor SI: m = 0.035Q

lfor z < z

p cm = 0.0208Q z3/5

p cFor SI: m = 0.032Q z3/5

pTo convert m from pounds per second of massflow to a volumetric rate, the following equationshall be used:

Equation 9-4

pV = 60 m /D

where:V= Volumetric flow rate, cubic feet per minute(m /s).3

D = Density of air at the temperature of thesmoke layer, pounds per cubic feet (T: in °F)[kg/m (T: in °C)].3

909.8.3 Balcony spill plumes. The plume mass

pflow rate (m ) for spill plumes shall be determinedusing the geometrically probable width based onarchitectural elements and projections in thefollowing equation:




Equation 9-5

p b m = 0.124(QW ) (z + 0.25H) (Equation 9-5)2 1/3

p bFor SI: m = 0.36(QW ) (z + 0.25H)2 1/3

where:H= Height above fire to underside of balcony,feet (m).

pm = Plume mass flow rate, pounds per second(kg/s).Q= Total heat output.W= Plume width at point of spill, feet (m).

bz = Height from balcony, feet (m).

909.8.4 Window Plumes. The plume mass flow

prate (m ) shall be determined from:

Equation 9-6

p w w w w wm = 0.077(A H ) (z +a) + 0.18A H½ a 5/3 1/2

p w w wFor SI: m = 0.68(A H ) (z + a) +½ a 5/3

w w1.5A H ½

where:

wA = Area of the opening, square feet (m ).2

wH = Height of the opening, feet (m).

pm = plume mass flow rate, pounds per second(kg/s).

wz = Height from the top of the window oropening to the bottom of the smoke layer, feet(m).

w w wa= 2.4A H - 2.1H .2/5 1/5

909.8.5 Plume Contact with Walls. When aplume contacts one or more of the surroundingwalls, the mass flow rate shall be adjusted for thereduced entrainment resulting from the contactprovided that the contact remains constant. Useof this provision requires calculation of the plumediameter, that shall be calculated by:

Equation 9-7

c ad = 0.48 [(T + 460)/(T + 460)] z½

c a For SI: d = 0.48 (T /T ) z½

where:d = Plume diameter, feet (m).

aT = Ambient air temperature, °F (°°K).

cT = Plume centerline temperature, °F (°K).

a Qc a= 0.60 (T + 460) z + Tb -5/3

cz= Height at which T is determined, feet (m).

c a aFor SI:T = 0.08 T Qc z + Tb -5/3

909.9 Design Fire. The design fire shall be based ona Q of not less than 5,000 Btu/s (5275 kW) unless arational analysis is performed by the registereddesign professional. The design fire shall be basedon the analysis in accordance with 780 CMR 909.4and 780 CMR 909.9.

909.9.1 Factors Considered. The engineeringanalysis shall include the characteristics of thefuel, fuel load, effects included by the fire andwhether the fire is likely to be steady or unsteady.

909.9.2 Separation Distance. Determination ofthe design fire shall include consideration of the

type of fuel, fuel spacing and configuration. Theratio of the separation distance to the fuelequivalent radius shall not be less than four. Thefuel equivalent radius shall be the radius of acircle of equal area to floor area of the fuelpackage. The design fire shall be increased ifother combustibles are within the separationdistance as determined by:

Equation 9-8

R = [Q/(12pq")]½

where:q = Incident radiant heat flux required fornonpiloted ignition, Btu/ft _ s (W/m ).2 2

Q = Heat release from fire, Btu/s (kW).R = Separation distance from target to center offuel package, feet (m).

909.9.3 Heat-release Assumptions. The analysisshall make use of best available data fromapproved sources and shall not be based onexcessively stringent limitations of combustiblematerial.

909.9.4 Sprinkler Effectiveness Assumptions.A documented engineering analysis shall beprovided for conditions that assume fire growth ishalted at the time of sprinkler activation.

909.10 Equipment. Equipment such as, but notlimited to, fans, ducts, automatic dampers andbalance dampers, shall be suitable for its intendeduse, suitable for the probable exposure temperaturesthat the rational analysis indicates.

909.10.1 Exhaust Fans. Components of exhaustfans shall be rated and certified by themanufacturer for the probable temperature rise towhich the components will be exposed. Thistemperature rise shall be computed by:

Equation 9-9

s c aT = (Q /mc) + (T ) where:c= Specific heat of smoke at smoke layertemperature, Btu/lb°F (kJ/kg • K).m= Exhaust rate, pounds per second (kg/s).

cQ = Convective heat output of fire, Btu/s (kW).

aT = Ambient temperature, °F (°K).

sT = Smoke temperature, °F (°K).

s Exception. Reduced T as calculated based onthe assurance of adequate dilution air.

909.10.2 Ducts. Duct materials and joints shallbe capable of withstanding the probabletemperatures and pressures to which they areexposed as determined in accordance with780 CMR 909.10.1. Ducts shall be constructedand supported in accordance with theInternational Mechanical Code. Ducts shall beleak tested to 1.5 times the maximum designpressure in accordance with nationally acceptedpractices. Measured leakage shall not exceed 5%




of design flow. Results of such testing shall be apart of the documentation procedure. Ducts shall besupported directly from fire-resistance-ratedstructural elements of the building by substantial,noncombustible supports.

Exception. Flexible connections (for the purposeof vibration isolation) complying with theInternational Mechanical Code, that areconstructed of approved fire-resistance-ratedmaterials.

909.10.3 Equipment, Inlets and Outlets.Equipment shall be located so as to not exposeuninvolved portions of the building to anadditional fire hazard. Outside air inlets shall belocated so as to minimize the potential forintroducing smoke or flame into the building.Exhaust outlets shall be so located as to minimizereintroduction of smoke into the building and tolimit exposure of the building or adjacentbuildings to an additional fire hazard.

909.10.4 Automatic Dampers. Automaticdampers, regardless of the purpose for which theyare installed within the smoke control system,shall be listed and conform to the requirements ofapproved, recognized standards.

909.10.5 Fans. In addition to other requirements,belt-driven fans shall have 1.5 times the numberof belts required for the design duty, with theminimum number of belts being two. Fans shallbe selected for stable performance based onnormal temperature and, where applicable,elevated temperature. Calculations andmanufacturer’s fan curves shall be part of thedocumentation procedures. Fans shall besupported and restrained by noncombustibledevices in accordance with the requirements of780 CMR 16.00. Motors driving fans shall not beoperated beyond their nameplate horsepower(kilowatts), as determined from measurement ofactual current draw, and shall have a minimumservice factor of 1.15.

909.11 Power Systems. The smoke control systemshall be supplied with two sources of power.Primary power shall be the normal building powersystems. Secondary power shall be from anapproved standby source complying with 527 CMR12.00 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00 The standbypower source and its transfer switches shall be in aseparate room from the normal power transformersand switch gear and shall be enclosed in a roomconstructed of not less than one-hour fire-resistance-rated fire barriers ventilated directly to and from theexterior. Power distribution from the two sourcesshall be by independent routes. Transfer to fullstandby power shall be automatic and within 60seconds of failure of the primary power. Thesystems shall comply with 527 CMR 12.00 as listedin 780 CMR 35.00.

909.11.1 Power Sources and Power Surges.Elements of the smoke management systemrelying on volatile memories or the like shall besupplied with uninterruptable power sources ofsufficient duration to span a 15-minute primarypower interruption. Elements of the smokemanagement system susceptible to power surgesshall be suitably protected by conditioners,suppressors or other approved means.

909.12 Detection and Control Systems. Firedetection systems providing control input or outputsignals to mechanical smoke control systems orelements thereof shall comply with the requirementsof 780 CMR 907.0. Such systems shall be equippedwith a control unit complying with UL 864 and listedas smoke control equipment.

Control systems for mechanical smoke controlsystems shall include provisions for verification.Verification shall include positive confirmation ofactuation, testing, manual override, the presence ofpower downstream of all disconnects and, through apreprogrammed weekly test sequence report,abnormal conditions audibly, visually and by printedreport.

909.12.1 Wiring. In addition to meetingrequirements of 527 CMR as listed in 780 CMR35.00; all wiring, regardless of voltage, shall befully enclosed within continuous raceways.

909.12.2 Activation. Smoke control systemsshall be activated in accordance with 780 CMR909.12.

909.12.2.1 Pressurization, Airflow orExhaust Method. Mechanical smoke controlsystems using the pressurization, airflow orexhaust method shall have completelyautomatic control.

909.12.2.2 Passive Method. Passive smokecontrol systems actuated by approved spot-typedetectors listed for releasing service shall bepermitted.

909.12.3 Automatic Control. Where completelyautomatic control is required or used, theautomatic-control sequences shall be initiatedfrom an appropriately zoned automatic sprinklersystem complying with 780 CMR 903.3.1.1,manual controls that are readily accessible to thefire department and any smoke detectors requiredby engineering analysis.

909.13 Control Air Tubing. Control air tubingshall be of sufficient size to meet the requiredresponse times. Tubing shall be flushed clean anddry prior to final connections and shall be adequatelysupported and protected from damage. Tubingpassing through concrete or masonry shall be sleevedand protected from abrasion and electrolytic action.

909.13.1 Materials. Control air tubing shall behard drawn copper, Type L, ACR in accordancewith ASTM B 42, ASTM B 43, ASTM B 68, ASTM




B 88, ASTM B 251 and ASTM B 280. Fittings shallbe wrought copper or brass, solder type, inaccordance with ASME B 16.18 or ASME B 16.22.Changes in direction shall be made with appropriatetool bends. Brass compression-type fittings shall beused at final connection to devices; other joints shallbe brazed using a BCuP5 brazing alloy with solidusabove 1,100°F (593°C) and liquids below 1,500°F(816°C). Brazing flux shall be used on copper-to-brass joints only.

Exception. Nonmetallic tubing used withincontrol panels and at the final connection todevices, provided that all of the followingconditions are met:1. Tubing shall be listed by an approvedagency for flame and smoke characteristics.2. Tubing and connected devices shall becompletely enclosed within galvanized orpaint-grade steel enclosure of not less than0.030 inch (0.76 mm) (No. 22 galvanizedsheet gage) thickness. Entry to the enclosureshall be by copper tubing with a protectivegrommet of neoprene or teflon or by suitablebrass compression to male-barbed adapter.3. Tubing shall be identified by appropriatelydocumented coding.4. Tubing shall be neatly tied and supportedwithin enclosure. Tubing bridging cabinet anddoor or moveable device shall be of sufficientlength to avoid tension and excessive stress.Tubing shall be protected against abrasion.Tubing serving devices on doors shall befastened along hinges.

909.13.2 Isolation from Other Functions.Control tubing serving other than smoke controlfunctions shall be isolated by automatic isolationvalves or shall be an independent system.

909.13.3 Testing. Control air tubing shall betested at three times the operating pressure for notless than 30 minutes without any noticeable lossin gauge pressure prior to final connection todevices.

909.14 Marking and Identification. The detectionand control systems shall be clearly marked at alljunctions, accesses and terminations.

909.15 Control Diagrams. Identical controldiagrams showing all devices in the system andidentifying their location and function shall be kepton site readily accessible for inspection by thebuilding and fire official. The format and manner ofthe control diagrams shall be subject to approval bythe fire official.

909.16 Fire-fighter’s Smoke Control Panel. Afire-fighter’s smoke control panel for fire departmentemergency response purposes only shall be providedand shall include manual control or override ofautomatic control for mechanical smoke controlsystems.The panel shall be located in a location

approved by the fire department and the panel shallcomply with780 CMR 909.16.1 through 909.16.3. In buildings provided with a fire command center,the smoke control panel shall be located within thefire command center complying with 780 CMR 911.

909.16.1 Smoke Control Systems. Fans used orintended for smoke control purposes shall beshown on the fire-fighter’s control panel. A clearindication of the direction of airflow and therelationship of components shall be displayed.Status indicators shall be provided for all smokecontrol equipment, annunciated by fan and zone,and by pilot-lamp-type indicators as follows:

1. Fans, dampers and other operating equip-ment in their normal status—WHITE.2. Fans, dampers and other operating equip-ment in their off or closed status—RED.3. Fans, dampers and other operating equip-ment in their on or open status—GREEN.4. Fans, dampers and other operating equip-ment in a fault status—YELLOW/AMBER.

909.16.2 Smoke Control Panel. The fire-fighter’s control panel shall provide controlcapability over the complete smoke-controlsystem equipment within the building as follows:

1. ON-AUTO-OFF control over eachindividual piece of operating smoke controlequipment that can also be controlled fromother sources within the building. This mayinclude stairway pressurization fans; smokeexhaust fans; supply, return and exhaust fans;elevator shaft fans and other operatingequipment used or intended for smoke controlpurposes.2. OPEN-AUTO-CLOSE control overindividual dampers relating to smoke controland that are also controlled from other sourceswithin the building.3. ON-OFF or OPEN-CLOSE control oversmoke control and other critical equipmentassociated with a fire or smoke emergency andthat can only be controlled from the fire-fighter’s control panel.

Exceptions:1. Complex systems, where approved,where the controls and indicators arecombined to control and indicate allelements of a single smoke zone as a unit.2. Complex systems, where approved,where the control is accomplished bycomputer interface using approved, plainEnglish commands.

909.16.3 Control Action and Priorities. Thefire-fighter’s control panel actions shall be asfollows:

1. ON-OFF, OPEN-CLOSE control actionsshall have the highest priority of any controlpoint within the building. Once issued fromthe fire-fighter’s control panel, no automatic or




manual control from any other control pointwithin the building shall contradict the controlaction. Where automatic means are providedto interrupt normal, non emergency equipmentoperation or produce a specific result tosafeguard the building or equipment (i.e., ductfreeze stats, duct smoke detectors, high-temperature cutouts, temperature-actuatedlinkage and similar devices), such means shallbe capable of being overridden by the fire-fighter’s control panel. The last control actionas indicated by each fire-fighter’s control panelswitch position shall prevail. In no case shallcontrol actions require the smoke controlsystem to assume more than one configurationat any one time.

Exception. Power disconnects required by527 CMR 12.00 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

2. Only the AUTO position of each three-position fire-fighter’s control panel switch shallallow automatic or manual control action fromother control points within the building. TheAUTO position shall be the NORMAL, nonemergency, building control position. Wherea fire-fighter’s control panel is in the AUTOposition, the actual status of the device (on, off,open, closed) shall continue to be indicated bythe status indicator described above. Whendirected by an automatic signal to assume anemergency condition, the NORMAL positionshall become the emergency condition for thatdevice or group of devices within the zone. Inno case shall control actions require the smokecontrol system to assume more than oneconfiguration at any one time.

909.17 System Response Time. Smoke-controlsystem activation shall be initiated immediately afterreceipt of an appropriate automatic or manualactivation command. Smoke control systems shallactivate individual components (such as dampers andfans) in the sequence necessary to prevent physicaldamage to the fans, dampers, ducts and otherequipment. For purposes of smoke control, the fire-fighter’s control panel response time shall be thesame for automatic or manual smoke control actioninitiated from any other building control point. Thetotal response time, including that necessary fordetection, shutdown of operating equipment andsmoke control system startup, shall allow for fulloperational mode to be achieved before theconditions in the space exceed the design smokecondition. The system response time for eachcomponent and their sequential relationships shall bedetailed in the required rational analysis andverification of their installed condition reported inthe required final report.

909.18 Acceptance Testing. Devices, equipment,components and sequences shall be individuallytested. These tests, in addition to those required by

other provisions of 780 CMR, shall consist ofdetermination of function, sequence and, whereapplicable, capacity of their installed condition.

909.18.1 Detection Devices. Smoke or firedetectors that are a part of a smoke control systemshall be tested in accordance with 780 CMR 9.00in their installed condition. When applicable, thistesting shall include verification of airflow in bothminimum and maximum conditions.

909.18.2 Ducts. Ducts that are part of a smokecontrol system shall be traversed using generallyaccepted practices to determine actual airquantities.

909.18.3 Dampers. Dampers shall be tested forfunction in their installed condition.

909.18.4 Inlets and Outlets. Inlets and outletsshall be read using generally accepted practices todetermine air quantities.

909.18.5 Fans. Fans shall be examined forcorrect rotation. Measurements of voltage,amperage, revolutions per minute (rpm) and belttension shall be made.

909.18.6 Smoke Barriers. Measurements usinginclined manometers or other approved calibratedmeasuring devices shall be made of the pressuredifferences across smoke barriers. Suchmeasurements shall be conducted for eachpossible smoke control condition.

909.18.7 Controls. Each smoke zone, equippedwith an automatic-initiation device, shall be putinto operation by the actuation of one such device.Each additional device within the zone shall beverified to cause the same sequence withoutrequiring the operation of fan motors in order toprevent damage. Control sequences shall beverified throughout the system, includingverification of override from the fire-fighter’scontrol panel and simulation of standby powerconditions.

909.18.8 Special Inspections for SmokeControl. Smoke control systems shall be testedby a special inspector.

909.18.8.1 Scope of Testing. Specialinspections shall be conducted in accordancewith the following:

1. During erection of ductwork and prior toconcealment for the purposes of leakagetesting and recording of device location.2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficientcompletion for the purposes of pressure-difference testing, flow measurements, anddetection and control verification.

909.18.8.2 Qualifications. Special inspectionagencies for smoke control shall have expertisein fire protection engineering, mechanicalengineering and certification as air balancers.

909.18.8.3 Reports. A complete report of




testing shall be prepared by the specialinspector or special inspection agency. Thereport shall include identification of all devicesby manufacturer, nameplate data, designvalues, measured values and identification tagor mark. The report shall be reviewed by theresponsible registered design professional and,when satisfied that the design intent has beenachieved, the responsible registered designprofessional shall seal, sign and date the report.

909.18.8.3.1 Report Filing. A copy of thefinal report shall be filed with the buildingofficial and fire official and an identicalcopy shall be maintained in an approvedlocation at the building.

909.18.9 Identification and documentation.Charts, drawings and other documents identifyingand locating each component of the smoke controlsystem, and describing its proper function andmaintenance requirements, shall be maintained onfile at the building as an attachment to the reportrequired by 780 CMR 909.18.8.3. Devices shallhave an approved identifying tag or mark on themconsistent with the other required documentationand shall be dated indicating the last time theywere successfully tested and by whom.

909.19 System Acceptance. Buildings, or portionsthereof, required by 780 CMR to comply with780 CMR 909.19 shall not be issued a certificate ofoccupancy until such time that the building officialdetermines that the provisions of 780CMR 909.19have been fully complied with, and after the buildingofficial an fire official or their designees havewitnessed and approved a satisfactory functional testof the smoke control system, and that the firedepartment has received satisfactory instruction onthe operation, both automatic and manual, of thesystem.

Exception. In buildings of phased construction,a temporary certificate of occupancy, as approvedby the building official, shall be permittedprovided that those portions of the building to beoccupied meet the requirements of 780 CMR909.19 and that the remainder does not pose asignificant hazard to the safety of the proposedoccupants or adjacent buildings.

909.20 Smokeproof Enclosures. Where requiredby other sections of 780 CMR, a smokeproofenclosure shall be constructed in accordancewith780 CMR 909.20. A smokeproof enclosureshall consist of an enclosed interior exit stairway thatconforms to 780 CMR 1019.1 and an outsidebalcony or ventilated vestibule meeting therequirements of 780 CMR 909.20. Where access tothe roof is required, such access shall be from thesmokeproof enclosure where a smokeproof enclosureis required.

909.20.1 Access. Access to the stair shall be by

way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony.The minimum dimension of the vestibule shall notbe less than the required width of the corridorleading to the vestibule but shall not have a widthof less than 44 inches (1118 mm) and shall nothave a length of less than 72 inches (1829 mm) inthe direction of egress travel.

909.20.2 Construction. The smokeproofenclosure shall be separated from the remainder ofthe building by not less than a two-hour fire-resistance-rated fire barrier without openings otherthan the required means of egress doors. Thevestibule shall be separated from the stairway bynot less than a two-hour fire-resistance-rated firebarrier. The open exterior balcony shall beconstructed in accordance with the fire-resistance-rating requirements for floor construction.

909.20.2.1 Door Closers. Doors in asmokeproof enclosure shall be self-closing orautomatic-closing by actuation of a smokedetector installed at the floor-side entrance tothe smokeproof enclosure in accordance with780 CMR 715.3.7. The actuation of the smokedetector on any door shall activate the closingdevices on all doors in the smokeproofenclosure at all levels. Smoke detectors shallbe installed in accordance with 780 CMR907.10.

909.20.3 Natural Ventilation Alternative. Theprovisions of 780CMR 909.20.3.1 through909.20.3.3 shall apply to ventilation ofsmokeproof enclosures by natural means.

909.20.3.1 Balcony Doors. Where access tothe stairway is by way of an open exteriorbalcony, the door assembly into the enclosureshall be a fire door in accordance with780 CMR 715.3.

909.20.3.2 Vestibule Doors. Where access tothe stairway is by way of a vestibule, the doorassembly into the vestibule shall be a fire doorcomplying with 780 CMR 715.3. The doorassembly from the vestibule to the stairwayshall have not less than a 20-minute fireprotection rating complying with 780 CMR715.3.

909.20.3.3 Vestibule Ventilation. Eachvestibule shall have a minimum net area of 16square feet (1.5 m ) of opening in a wall facing2

an outer court, yard or public way that is atleast 20 feet (6096 mm) in width.

909.20.4 Mechanical Ventilation Alternative.The provisions of 780 CMR 909.20.4.1 through909.20.4.4 shall apply to ventilation ofsmokeproof enclosures by mechanical means.

909.20.4.1 Vestibule Doors. The doorassembly from the building into the vestibuleshall be a fire door complying with 780 CMR715.3. The door assembly from the vestibule




to the stairway shall have not less than a 20-minute fire protection rating in accordance with780 CMR 715.3. The door from the buildinginto the vestibule shall be provided withgaskets or other provisions to minimize airleakage.

909.20.4.2 Vestibule Ventilation. Thevestibule shall be supplied with not less thanone air change per minute and the exhaust shallnot be less than 150% of supply. Supply airshall enter and exhaust air shall discharge fromthe vestibule through separate, tightlyconstructed ducts used only for that purpose.Supply air shall enter the vestibule within sixinches (152 mm) of the floor level. The top ofthe exhaust register shall be located at the topof the smoke trap but not more than six inches(152 mm) down from the top of the trap, andshall be entirely within the smoke trap area.Doors in the open position shall not obstructduct openings. Duct openings with controllingdampers are permitted where necessary to meetthe design requirements, but dampers are nototherwise required.

909.20.4.2.1 Engineered VentilationSystem. Where a specially engineeredsystem is used, the system shall exhaust aquantity of air equal to not less than 90 airchanges per hour from any vestibule in theemergency operation mode and shall besized to handle three vestibulessimultaneously. Smoke detectors shall belocated at the floor-side entrance to eachvestibule and shall activate the system forthe affected vestibule. Smoke detectors shallbe installed in accordance with 780 CMR907.10.

909.20.4.3 Smoke Trap. The vestibule ceilingshall be at least 20 inches (508 mm) higherthan the door opening into the vestibule toserve as a smoke and heat trap and to providean upward-moving air column. The heightshall not be decreased unless approved andjustified by design and test.

909.20.4.4 Stair Shaft Air MovementSystem. The stair shaft shall be provided witha dampered relief opening and supplied withsufficient air to maintain a minimum positivepressure of 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) in theshaft relative to the vestibule with all doorsclosed.

909.20.5 Stair Pressurization Alternative.Where the building is equipped throughout withan automatic sprinkler system in accordance with780 CMR 903.3.1.1, the vestibule is required fora minimum of one stair but is not required forother stairs, provided that the interior exitstairways are pressurized to a minimum of 0.15inch of water (37 Pa) and a maximum of 0.35 inch

of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to thebuilding measured with all stairway doors closedunder maximum anticipated stack pressures.

909.20.6 Ventilating Equipment. The activationof ventilating equipment required by thealternatives in 780 CMR 909.20.4 and 909.20.5shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floorlevel at an approved location at the entrance to thesmokeproof enclosure. When the closing devicefor the stair shaft and vestibule doors is activatedby smoke detection or power failure, themechanical equipment shall activate and operateat the required performance levels. Smokedetectors shall be installed in accordance with780 CMR 907.10.

909.20.6.1 Ventilation Systems.

909.20.6.1.1 Smokeproof enclosureventilation systems shall be independent ofother building ventilation systems. Theequipment and ductwork shall comply withone of the following:

1. Equipment and ductwork shall belocated exterior to the building anddirectly connected to the smokeproofenclosure or connected to the smokeproofenclosure by ductwork enclosed by two-hour fire-resistance-rated fire barriers.2. Equipment and ductwork shall belocated within the smokeproof enclosurewith intake or exhaust directly from andto the outside or through ductworkenclosed by two-hour fire-resistance-ratedfire barriers.3 .Equipment and ductwork shall belocated within the building if separatedfrom the remainder of the building,including other mechanical equipment, bytwo-hour fire-resistance-rated firebarriers.

909.20.6.1.2 In-take Duct Detection. Anin-duct smoke detector shall be installedupstream of all fresh air intakes and beforeentering the smoke-proof enclosure.Annunciation of activation shall occur at thecontrol panel required by 780 CMR909.21.2.2.

909.20.6.2 Standby Power. Mechanicalvestibule and stair shaft ventilation systems andautomatic fire detection systems shall bepowered by an approved standby power systemconforming to 780 CMR 403.10.1 and780 CMR 27.

909.20.6.3 Acceptance and Testing. Beforethe mechanical equipment is approved, thesystem shall be tested in the presence of thebuilding official and fire official or theirdesignees to confirm that the system is oper-ating in compliance with these requirements.




909.21 Underground Building Smoke ExhaustSystem. Where required in accordance with780 CMR 405.5 for underground buildings, a smokeexhaust system shall be provided in accordance with780 CMR 909.21.

909.21.1 Exhaust Capability. Where compart-mentation is required, each compartment shallhave an independent, automatically activatedsmoke exhaust system capable of manualoperation. The system shall have an air supplyand smoke exhaust capability that will provide aminimum of six air changes per hour.

909.21.2 Operation.

909.21.2.1 The smoke exhaust system shall beoperated in the compartment of origin by thefollowing, independently of each other:

1. Two cross-zoned smoke detectors withina single protected area of a single smokedetector monitored by an alarm verificationzone or an approved equivalent method.2. The automatic sprinkler system.

909.21.2.2. ON-AUTO-OFF controls shall beinstalled in a location approved by the firedepartment.

909.21.3 Alarm Required. Activation of thesmoke exhaust system shall activate an audiblealarm at a constantly attended location.

780 CMR 910.0 SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS

910.1 General. Where required by 780 CMR orotherwise installed, smoke and heat vents ormechanical smoke exhaust systems and draftcurtains shall conform to the requirements of780 CMR 910.0.

Exception. Frozen-food warehouses used solelyfor storage of Class I and II commodities whereprotected by an approved automatic sprinklersystem.

910.2 Where Required. Approved smoke and heatvents, and draft curtains, shall be installed in theroofs of one-story buildings or portions thereofoccupied for the uses set forth in 780CMR 910.2.1through 910.2.4.

910.2.1 Groups F-1 and S-1. Buildings andportions thereof used as a Group F-1 or S-1occupancy having more than 50,000 square feet(4645 m ) in undivided area.2

Exception . Group S-1 aircraft repair hangars.

910.2.2 Group H. Buildings and portions thereofused as a Group H occupancy as shown:

1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 orH-3, any of which are over 15,000 square feet(1394 m ) in single floor area.2

Exception. Buildings of noncombustibleconstruction containing only noncombustiblematerials.

2. In areas of buildings in Group H used forstoring Class 2, 3, and 4 liquid and solidoxidizers, Class 1 and unclassified detonableorganic peroxides, Class 3 and 4 unstable(reactive) materials, or Class 2 or 3 water-reactive materials as required for a high-hazardcommodity classification.

Exception. Buildings of noncombustibleconstruction containing only noncombustiblematerials.

910.2.3 High-piled Combustible Storage.Buildings and portions thereof containing high-piled combustible stock or rack storage in anyoccupancy group in accordance with 780 CMR413.

910.2.4 Exit access Travel Distance Increase.Buildings and portions thereof used as a GroupF-1 or S-1 occupancy where the maximum exitaccess travel distance is increased inaccordance with 780 CMR 1015.2.

910.3 Design and Installation. The design andinstallation of smoke and heat vents and draftcurtains shall be as specified in 780 CMR 910.0 andTable 910.3.

910.3.1 Vent Operation. Smoke and heat ventsshall be approved and labeled and shall be capableof being operated by approved automatic andmanual means. Automatic operation of smokeand heat vents shall conform to the provisions of780 CMR 910.3.

910.3.1.1 Gravity-operated Drop-out Vents.Automatic smoke and heat vents containingheat-sensitive glazing designed to shrink anddrop out of the vent opening when exposed tofire shall fully open within five minutes afterthe vent cavity is exposed to a simulated fire,represented by a time-temperature gradient thatreaches an air temperature of 500°F (260°C)within five minutes.

910.3.1.2 Sprinklered Buildings. Whereinstalled in buildings provided with anapproved automatic sprinkler system, smokeand heat vents shall be designed to operatemanually.

910.3.1.3 Nonsprinklered Buildings. Whereinstalled in buildings not provided with anapproved automatic sprinkler system, smokeand heat vents shall operate automatically byactuation of a heat-responsive device rated atbetween 100°F (38°C) and 220°F (104°C)above ambient.

Exception. Gravity-operated drop-out ventscomplying with 780 CMR 910.3.1.1




TABLE 910.3 REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAFT CURTAINS AND SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS

OCCUPANCYGROUP AND

COMMODITYCLASSIFICATION

DESIGNATED STORAGE

HEIGHT (feet)

MINIMUMDRAFT

CURTAINDEPTH (feet)

MAXIMUMAREA FORMED

BY DRAFTCURTAINS(square feet)

VENT AREA TOFLOOR AREA

RATIO

MAXIMUMSPACING OF

VENTCENTERS (feet)

MAXIMUMDISTANCE TOVENTS FROM

WALL OR DRAFTCURTAINS (feet)b

Group F-1 —0.2 × Hc

but $ 450,000 1:100 120 60

Group S-1 I-IV

(Option 1)

# 20 6 10,000 1:100 100 60

> 20 # 40 6 8,000 1:75 100 55

Group S-1 I-IV

(Option 2)

# 20 4 3,000 1:75 100 55

> 20 # 40 4 3,000 1:50 100 50

Group S-1 High

hazard (Option 1)

# 20 6 6,000 1:50 100 50

> 20 # 30 6 6,000 1:40 90 45

Group S-1 High

hazard (Option 2)

# 20 4 4,000 1:50 100 50

> 20 # 30 4 2,000 1:30 75 40

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m .2

a. Requirements for rack storage heights in excess of those indicated shall be in accordance with Chapter 23 of theInternational Fire Code. For solid-piled storage heights in excess of those indicated, an approved engineered designshall be used.

b. The distance specified is the maximum distance from any vent in a particular draft curtained area to walls or draftcurtains which form the perimeter of the draft curtained area.

c. H is the height of the vent, in feet, above the floor.

910.3.2 Vent Dimensions. The effective ventingarea shall not be less than 16 square feet (1.5 m )2

with no dimension less than four feet (1219 mm),excluding ribs or gutters having a total width notexceeding six inches (152 mm).

910.3.3 Vent Locations. Smoke and heat ventsshall be located 20 feet (6096 mm) or more fromadjacent lot lines and fire walls and ten feet (3048mm) or more from fire barrier walls. Vents shallbe uniformly located within the roof area abovehigh-piled storage areas, with consideration givento roof pitch, draft curtain location, sprinklerlocation and structural members.

910.3.4 Draft Curtains. Where required, draftcurtains shall be provided in accordance with780 CMR 910.3.

Exception. Where areas of buildings areequipped with automatic sprinklers throughout.

910.3.4.1 Construction. Draft curtains shallbe constructed of sheet metal, lath and plaster,gypsum board or other approved materialswhich provide equivalent performance to resistthe passage of smoke. Joints and connectionsshall be smoke tight.

910.3.4.2 Location and Depth. The locationand minimum depth of draft curtains shall be inaccordance with Table 910.3.

910.4 Mechanical Smoke Exhaust. Engineeredmechanical smoke exhaust shall be an acceptablealternate to smoke and heat vents.

910.4.1 Location. Exhaust fans shall beuniformly spaced within each draft-curtained areaand the maximum distance between fans shall notbe greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).

910.4.2 Size. Fans shall have a maximumindividual capacity of 30,000 cfm (14.2 m /s).3

The aggregate capacity of smoke exhaust fansshall be determined by the equation:

Equation 9-10

C = A x 300

where:C= Capacity of mechanical ventilationrequired, in cubic feet per minute (m /s).3

A= Area of roof vents provided in square feet(m ) in accordance with Table 910.3.2

910.4.3 Operation. Mechanical smoke exhaustfans shall be automatically activated by theautomatic sprinkler system or by heat detectorshaving operating characteristics equivalent tothose described in 780 CMR 910.3.1. Individualmanual controls of each fan unit shall also beprovided.

910.4.4 Wiring and Control. Wiring foroperation and control of smoke exhaust fans shallbe connected ahead of the main disconnect andprotected against exposure to temperatures inexcess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not lessthan 15 minutes. Controls shall be located so asto be immediately accessible to the fire servicefrom the exterior of the building and protectedagainst interior fire exposure by fire barriershaving a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 hour.

910.4.5 Supply Air. Supply air for exhaust fansshall be provided at or near the floor level andshall be sized to provide a minimum of 50% ofrequired exhaust. Openings for supply air shall beuniformly distributed around the periphery of thearea served.




910.4.6 Interlocks. In combination comfort air-handling/smoke removal systems or independentcomfort air-handling systems, fans shall becontrolled to shut down in accordance with theapproved smoke control sequence.

780 CMR 911.0 FIRE COMMAND CENTER

911.1 Features. Where required by other sections of780 CMR, a fire command center for fire departmentoperations shall be provided. The location andaccessibility of the fire command center shall beseparated from the remainder of the building by notless than a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated fire barrier.The room shall be a minimum of 96 square feet (ninem ) with a minimum dimension of eight feet (24382

mm). A layout of the fire command center and allfeatures required by the section to be containedtherein shall be submitted for approval prior toinstallation. The fire command center shall complywith NFPA 72 and shall contain the followingfeatures.

1. The emergency voice/alarm communicationsystem unit.2. The fire department communications unit.3. Fire detection and alarm system annunciatorunit.4. Annunciator unit visually indicating thelocation of the elevators and whether they areoperational.5. Status indicators and controls for air-handlingsystems.6. The fire-fighter’s control panel required by780 CMR 909.16 for smoke control systemsinstalled in the building.7. Controls for unlocking stairway doorssimultaneously.8. Sprinkler valve and water-flow detectordisplay panels.9. Emergency and standby power statusindicators.10. A telephone for fire department use withcontrolled access to the public telephone system.11. Fire pump status indicators.12. Schematic building plans indicating thetypical floor plan and detailing the building core,means of egress, fire protection systems, fire-fighting equipment and fire department access.13. Worktable.14. Generator supervision devices, manual startand transfer features.15. Public address system, where specificallyrequired by other sections of 780 CMR.

780 CMR 912.0 FIRE DEPARTMENT

CONNECTIONS

912.1 Required. All required water fire-extinguishing systems, foam-water extinguishingsystems, and standpipe systems shall be providedwith a fire department connection in accordance withthe applicable NFPA standards. Standpipes in

buildings under construction or demolition shallconform to 780 CMR 3311.0 and NFPA 241 listedin 780 CMR 35.00.

Exceptions:1. Limited area sprinkler systems supplied fromthe domestic water system.2. An automatic sprinkler system with less than20 sprinklers.

912.2 Connections: Fire department connectionsshall be arranged in such a manner that theattachment to any one water sprinkler connectionwill serve all sprinklers, and the attachment to anyone standpipe connection will serve all standpipeswithin the building.

912.3 Location: Fire department connections shallbe located in a location approved by the firedepartment. Such connections shall be located sothat immediate access is provided to the firedepartment. Fire department connections shall notbe obstructed by fences, brushes, trees, walls or anyother similar object.

912.4 Height: Fire department connections shall notbe less than 18 inches (457 mm) and not more than42 inches (1067 mm) in elevation, measured fromthe ground level to the centerline of the inlets.

912.5 Projection: Where the fire departmentconnection will otherwise project beyond theproperty line or into the public way, a flush-type firedepartment connection shall be provided.

912.6 Hose thread: Hose thread in the firedepartment connection shall be uniform with thatused by the local fire department.

912.7 Fittings: Fire department inlet connectionsshall be fitted with check valves, ball drip valves andplugs with chains or frangible caps.

780 CMR 913.0 PRIVATE UNDERGROUND

FIRE MAINS AND YARD HYDRANTS

913.1 Private Underground Fire Mains and YardHydrants. Fire hydrants and underground firemains installed on private property shall be locatedand installed as approved by the head of the firedepartment. Hydrants shall conform to the standardsof the administrative authority of the jurisdiction andthe fire department. Hydrants shall not be installedon a water main less than six inches in diameter.Standards of construction shall be in accordancewith NFPA 24 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.

780 CMR 914.0 FIRE PUMPS

914.1 General. Where fire pumps are required to beinstalled as part of a required or non-requiredsystem(s), the fire pump(s) shall be designed andinstalled in accordance with 527 CMR 12.00 andNFPA 20 as listed in 780 CMR 35.00.




914.2 Rooms. : Fire pumps and all relatedequipment shall be located in a dedicated roommeeting the physical and environmental features ofNFPA 20 listed in 780 CMR 35.00, and enclosedwith not less than two hours fire resistiveconstruction. Fire pumps rooms shall have eitherdirect access to the room from grade or access by atwo hour rated passageway and shall be properlysecured from unauthorized entry.

914.3 Emergency Power: All fire pumps shall beprovided with emergency power when installed inthe following types of buildings or use groups.Emergency power equipment installation shallconform to 527 CMR 12.00 and NFPA 20 as listedin 780 CMR 35.00.

1. High-rise buildings as defined by M.G.L.c. 148 § 26A and 780 CMR.2. Buildings and structures of Use Group A, with

a total occupant load of more than 300 occupants.3. Buildings and structures of Use Group E, witha total occupant load of more than 300 occupants.4. Buildings and structures of Use Group H.5. Buildings and structures of Use Group I,having surgery or treatment areas.

780 CMR 915 CARBON MONOXIDE

PROTECTION

915.1 General. Carbon monoxide protection shallbe provided as required by 527 CMR 31.00 and248 CMR as listed in 780 CMR 35.00. All COdetectors utilized in new construction shall be hard-wired, except wireless devices, and all CO detectorsand CO detector systems, whether hard-wired orwireless, shall satisfy the requirements of NFPA-720.




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