NFPA 72 – Changes in the 2016 Edition

Ray Grill, P.E., FSFPE

Arup

Documentation – Chapter 7

• Changes in Minimum Required Documentation (7.2)− Room use Identification− Building features that affect device

placement− Mounting height elevation for wall-

mounted devices

Documentation – Chapter 7• Changes in Minimum Required

Documentation (7.2)− Design sound pressure levels− Pathway diagrams between control unit

and supervising station and shared communications equipment

− Copy of site-specific software with instructions for access and passwords

Circuits – Chapter 12• New Class N (Shared network

communication)− Two or more pathways with

communication verified by end to end communication

− Fault on one pathway shall not effect other pathways

− Two paths cannot share the same physical path

Inspection and Testing –Chapter 14

• Recalled equipment (14.2.2.2.4)− If recalled equipment is observed, the

owner is required to be notified in writing

In-Building Radio Enhancement Systems

• Requirements moved to NFPA 1221 –Standard for Installation, Maintenance and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems− Survivability criteria is still in Chapter 24

Initiating Devices – Chapter 17

Deleted …. “as well as inside all closets, elevator shafts,enclosed stairways, dumbwaiters shafts, and chutes.”Added explanatory material in Annex.

Survivability – When is it required?Non-voice systems

Survivability

Non-voice systems

Survivability

Non-voice systems

ECS SurvivabilityGeneral Requirements

ECS Survivability

New Exceptions

ECS SurvivabilityPerformance Approach Allowed

Voice EVAC SurvivabilityEquipment Protection in In Building EVACS Section

Class X

Thank you!

Questions?

Understanding the Meaning of Intelligibility –Are YOU Abdicating Your Design Responsibilities?

Wayne D. Moore, P.E., FSFPEVice President, Corporate StrategyJENSEN HUGHES117 Metro Center Boulevard, Suite 1002Warwick, RI 02886401-736-8992wmoore@jensenhughes.com

Do You Consider Yourself A Professional In The Fire Alarm Industry?

How we all started?

What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?• The Gallup organization tells us that roughly

54% of us are disengaged with our work (we don't really care) and 17% are actively disengaged (we really don't care ... and we work to get in the way of making good things happen). Obviously this does not represent a professional!

What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?• You strive to ensure the life safety of the

occupants of the buildings where you have designed fire protection systems.

• You take the responsibility to ensure you understand the client’s fire protection goals and your work is code compliant.

• You ensure that the system designs you are associated with will operate reliably.

What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?

• Fire Alarm System Design: It’s Notabout drawing circles and squares on a floor plan – it’s the process!

• NFPA 72-2016 is NOT a design manual!

What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?• “Far too many systems are ‘designed’ or

specified by people well outside of their area of expertise!”

• “Simply quoting a bunch of standards and codes that a system has to meet is not a system design…”

Peter Mapp, Acoustical Engineer

What Does It Mean To Be A Professional?• The Design Process is more than knowing the

Code.

• What impacts the design and installation?• Occupancy; Operations; Processes;

Furnishings• Construction; Ceiling Height; Acoustics• Owner’s goals; Codes in force

BACKGROUNDIn order for the ECS to communicate

information properly it must reproduce the desired messages so that the intended listeners will both hear and understand the message; that is, the message must be intelligible.

“The problem with communication ... is the illusion that it has been accomplished.”- George Bernard Shaw

BACKGROUNDWhen did intelligibility first arrive on the scene?Since 1985, the Code (NFPA 72F) has required both audibility and intelligibility of voice communications. Prior to the introduction of intelligibility requirements, EVACS might have met audibility requirements, but nothing in the Code assured the occupants could comprehend and then react properly to the voice message.

Intelligibility Has ALWAYS Been a Requirement!

• Intelligible voice messages are a requirement that many designers, installers and authorities having jurisdiction have struggled with in earlier editions of the Code.

• The important issue in meeting this requirementis to have a basic understanding of sound and communications principles.

Understanding Intelligibility• Intelligibility is a complex function of the

source audio, the acoustic response of the architectural features and materials of the immediate vicinity, and the dynamics created by the room’s occupants. Refer to NFPA 72-2016 Annex D for more information on speech intelligibility and how it is predicted.

Voice intelligibility

Voice intelligibility• Acoustically distinguishable space (ADS) (3.3.6)

− An ECS notification zone, or subdivision thereof, • that might be an enclosed or otherwise physically

defined space or• That might be distinguished from other spaces by

different acoustical, environmental or use characteristics,

− Such as reverberation time and ambient SPL

• The intent is that all parts of a building or space can be divided into definable ADSs

Voice intelligibility• Within acoustically distinguishable spaces (ADS) where

voice intelligibility is required, voice communications systems shall reproduce pre-recorded, synthesized or live messages with voice intelligibility (18.4.10)− See Annex D – Speech Intelligibility− See Supplement 2 – ECS Design and Application Challenges− See Supplement 3 – Voice Intelligibility for EVACs

• ADSs shall be determined by the system designer during the planning and design of all ECSs (18.4.10.1)− Each ADS shall be identified as either requiring or not

requiring voice intelligibility (18.4.10.2)

Voice intelligibility

For a standard building configuration with normal ceiling height (8 ft to 12 ft (2.4 m to 3.7 m)), normal ceiling construction (i.e. drop acoustical ceiling tiles), standard wall configurations and finishes and carpeted floors the following should apply:

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

Ceiling-mounted speakers should be installed in all normally occupiable spaces and in corridors spaced at a maximum of twice the ceiling height

Or as determined by a commercially available computer acoustical/speaker modeling program.

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

In general low ceilings require more ceiling mounted speakers per square foot of area than high ceilings

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

Where wall-mounted speakers are used, manufacturer recommendations should be reviewed and/or computer modeling should be employed.

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

The audibility and intelligibility of the speakers can be impacted by the tap/setting at which the speaker is connected and should meet the audibility requirements of the Code while still having the message intelligible.

Connecting to a high setting to meet the audibility requirements of the code could distort the intelligibility of the signal.

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

In an ADS that is a non-acoustically challenging area, designing for audibility will typically result in an intelligible system provided minimum speaker guidelines are followed. Areas typically considered to be non-acoustically challenging include, traditional office environments, hotel guestrooms, dwelling units, and spaces with carpeting and furnishings.

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

Special attention must be given to acoustically challenging ADSs. Such areas might incorporate appreciable hard surfaces (e.g. glass, marble, tile, metal, etc.) or appreciably high ceilings (e.g. atriums, multiple ceiling heights).

These conditions will require more stringent design guidelines to ensure intelligibility (e.g. a closer than normal speaker spacing with lower taps).

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

Acoustically Challenging AreasNEW-NFPA 72-2016

• 24.3.1.2* Where no listed loudspeaker exists to achieve the intelligibility requirements of the Code for a notification zone, non-listed loudspeakers shall be permitted to be installed to achieve the intelligibility for that notification zone.

• It is important to understand that when two requirements conflict, that the performance of the system to provide intelligible life safety messaging should take precedence. This is exactly what the technical committee deliberated and decided was the most important performance feature. It is not anticipated that non-listed speakers would be used throughout the building but only in the acoustically challenging spaces for example atriums and hard surface areas. The required use of these speakers would be demonstrated by the system designer.

Acoustically Challenging AreasNEW-NFPA 72-2016

• A.24.3.1.2 In certain acoustically challenging areas, listed fire alarm speakers might not be capable of producing an intelligible message. Non–fire alarm listed speakers are permitted to be installed in these limited areas. A failure of a non-listed speaker should not disrupt the operation of listed fire alarm speakers and operation of the fire alarm or mass notification control equipment. Typically, a dedicated speaker circuit and other audio components such as amplifiers could be necessary to meet this functionality.

Acoustically Challenging Environment Examples

Acoustically Challenging Environment Examples

Acoustically Challenging Environment Examples

In an ADS where the ambient noise level exceeds 85dB it is acknowledged that intelligibility might not be attainable and an alternate means of notification is required.

Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces (ADS)

Voice intelligibility• Factors affecting intelligibility

− Background noise− Space configuration− Acoustical properties of finish materials− Distortion / bandwidth of sound equipment− Characteristics of person speaking

• Male / female• Accent• Microphone technique• Etc.

Voice intelligibility• Power output of speaker and

resulting SPL controlled by wattage taps on speaker− ¼ W minimum (UL 1480)− Typical 4 inch speakers in 3

dB increments• ¼ W• ½ W• 1 W• 2 W

Speaker example

Note how SPL increases by 3 dB for each doubling of speaker wattage

Voice intelligibility

24.3.1* Intelligible Voice Messages. Requires messages with voice intelligibility in accordance with Chapter 18.

Designers and installers should understand the importance of having a good distribution of speakers rather than trying to use a higher power output of a few speakers.

24.4.2.2.2.1 The following requirements shall be met for layout and design:

(1) The loudspeaker layout of the system shall be designed to ensure intelligibility and audibility. (2) Intelligibility shall first be determined by ensuring that all areas in the building have the required level of audibility.

24.4.2.2 Voice Evacuation Messages.

Intelligibility is not a “black & white” parameter

There are shades of gray

Intelligibility

Slide courtesy of Peter Mapp, Peter Mapp +Associates, UK

• 18.4.10.2.1* Unless specifically required by other governing laws, codes, or standards, or by other parts of this Code, intelligibility shall not be required in all ADSs.

• 18.4.10.3* Where required by the enforcing authority; governing laws, codes, or standards; or other parts of this Code, ADS assignments shall be submitted for review and approval.

• 18.4.10.4 Intelligibility shall not be required to be determined through quantitative measurements.

• 18.4.10.5 Quantitative measurements as described in D.2.4 shall be permitted but are not required.

Voice Intelligibility Requirements

Voice intelligibility testing

Case StudyLarge lobby buildings, Chicago, Illinois

Case StudyLarge lobby buildings, Chicago, Illinois

John C. Kluczynski Federal Building & U.S. Post Office, Loop StationDearborn Street Chicago, IL USA

Designed by Chicago architect Mies van der Rohe

Lobby granite and glass – Highly ReverberantIntelligibility not possible with standard Fire Alarm Voice Systems

The only viable way to provide content rich information and instructions to the hearing impaired:

• Visual Textual Messages on scrolling signboards, television and computer screens and personal devices like cell phones and pagers. Installing scrolling signboards at every location there are speakers is obviously not practical

ADA Implications

The only viable way to provide content rich information and instructions to the hearing impaired:

• Notify the hearing impaired to move to a location where there is sign board or other textual display is necessary. (FIDS, BIDS, GIDS)

ADA Implications (continued)

Textual Visible Notification

Textual Visible Notification

69

What Are The Challenges?• Understanding how intelligibility is

related to communication

• Understanding the translation ofsound to audio to intelligible communication

• Understanding the importance of designing for audibility and intelligibility

• Understanding where to get help for difficult spaces (EASE® EVACS voice evacuation design software from AFMG® Technologies)

• There is no communication without intelligibility

• Without intelligibility there is no understanding

• Without understanding there can be no action

Remember…

Research shows that the message is one of the most important factors in determining the effectiveness of a warning system*

NFPA 72-2016 Annex GG.2.2.1 The Message. Regardless of the method used to disseminate the warning message, there are certain characteristics that are required of an effective warning message.

*See “Taking it From the Experts When Crafting Your Messages” Robin Gray, Campus Safetymagazine, May/June 2008

1.Understand the Code language2.Be Prepared to “Educate” the

Contractor and the AHJ1.Plan Ahead 2.Ask Questions3.Understand Intelligibility Concepts4. Not a Concert Hall Design!5. Code does NOT require measurement

of Intelligibility (special cases – yes)

Key To Successful Design - Summary

73

• Designing Mass Notification Systems

• NFPA.org to purchase the book as well as Codes and Standards

• Ready.gov Emergency Response Plan Outline

• Ready.gov ERP guidelines

• ICC.org for codes Purchase/adoption Info

• www.SynAudCon.Com

RESOURCES

• JBL Professional –Sound System Design Manual(Available on-Line)

• Design guidance is provided in the NEMA Standards Publication:

• SB 50-2008, Emergency Communications Audio Intelligibility Applications Guide.

RESOURCES

Order from www.afaa.org

Are You Abdicating Your Design Responsibilities?

You must understand sound and communications principles

You must understand the construction of the building

You must understand the ADS concept

You must understand the ambient noise conditions

At a minimum:

Are You Abdicating Your Design Responsibilities?

You Must Be Prepared to Defend Your Design!

Understand That a Successful ECS design is YOUR Responsibility

Wayne D. Moore, P.E.JENSEN HUGHES117 Metro Center BoulevardSuite 1002Warwick, RI 02886401-736-8992wmoore@jensenhughes.com

Separate Audible Notification Zones & Phased Evacuations:

Jurisdictional Approach & Public Education

Virginia R Charter, P.E.

Separate Audible Notification Zones & Phased Evacuations• Typical Facilities

• Types of Phased Evacuations

• Industry Practices / AHJ Requirements

• Public Education

Phased Evacuations

Source: www.gpb.org

Source: mchdata.com

Institutional Occupancies

Phased Evacuations

Source: en.wikipedia.org

Source: commons.wikimedia.org High-Rise Buildings –Occupancy Vary

Phased Evacuations

Source: snobhotel.com

Source: castellanosrealestate.blogspot.com

Mixed Use –Occupancy Vary

Types of Phased Evacuations

• Partial Floor

• Defend in Place

• Single Floor

• Multi-Floor Zones

Source: www.usmdfortworth.com

Source: www.archdaily.com

Source:www.condohotelcenter.com

Industry Practices and AHJ Requirements

• How many floors?

• How many occupants?

• What are the protection features?

Protection Features

• Passive Elements

• Active Elements

• Personnel Training

• System Integration

Public Education - Now

• Recent Incidents

• Signage

Recent Incidents – 1/25/2008 Monte Carlo

• This is the thing about the hotel’s fire alarm: It is activated in zones — the floor where a fire is detected, and the floors below and above it. So even if an alarm had been activated automatically, most of the hotel would not have heard it.

Source: http://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/jan/26/inside-how-they-coped/

Recent Incidents – 7/25/2015 Cosmopolitan• Sandra Baker, Clark County

Fire Department's assistant fire chief said multiple floors of the hotel were evacuated due to the smoke, but there was only minimal damage to the building, namely some broken windows.

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/07/25/fire-breaks-out-las-vegas-cosmopolitan-hotel/30671053/

Source: http://www.dailykos.com/

Source: www.evacuation.net.au

Source: www.pfsafety.com

Public Education – Moving Forward

• Recent Incidents

• Signage

• Voice Systems inc. Mass Notification

• Smartphone Apps

Questions?

Thank You National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

For Your Sponsorship