public input no. 27-nfpa 92-2012 [ new section after 1.5 ] … · 2016. 3. 29. · public input no....

Public Input No. 27-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after 1.5 ]

1.6 ApprovalThe design and final inspection shall be approved by the AHJ.

Statement of Problem and Substantiation for Public Input

This ensures that the AHJ is involved with and approving the design and acceptance of these important systems.

Submitter Information Verification

Submitter Full Name: Jim MuirOrganization: Building Safety Division, Clark County WashingtonAffilliation: NFPA's Building Code Development Committee (BCDC)Submittal Date: Thu Dec 20 14:40:06 EST 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: The building codes and fire codes already have procedures which require AHJ inspection. This does not need to be repeated.

Copyright Assignment

I, Jim Muir, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I herebywarrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Jim Muir, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature

Page 1 of 47National Fire Protection Association Report

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Public Input No. 28-NFPA 92-2012 [ Section No. 2.3.1 ]

2.3.1 UL Publications. Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.

ANSI/UL 555, Standard for Fire Dampers, 2006, Revised 2010 2012 .

ANSI/UL 555S, Standard for Smoke Dampers, 1999 2006 , Revised 2010.

ANSI/UL 864, Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire AlarmSystems, 2003, Revised 2010 2012 .


Update referenced standards to most recent edition as indicated. The revised requirements of ANSI/UL 555 and ANSI/UL 555S deal with dampers intended to be installed in air handling spaces. Revisions to ANSI/UL 864 include new and revised requirements for Supervising Station Signal Processing Equipment and have no impact to NFPA 92.


Submitter Full Name: John BenderOrganization: UL LLCSubmittal Date: Fri Dec 28 08:31:44 EST 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-5-NFPA 92-2013Statement: Update referenced standards to most recent edition as indicated. The revised

requirements of ANSI/UL 555 and ANSI/UL 555S deal with dampers intended to be installed in air handling spaces. Revisions to ANSI/UL 864 include new and revised requirements for Supervising Station Signal Processing Equipment and have no impact to NFPA 92.


I, John Bender, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I herebywarrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am John Bender, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature



Public Input No. 12-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after 2.3.2 ]

ISO Smoke control StandardsISO 21927-1:2008 Smoke and heat control systems Part 1: Specification for smoke barriersISO 21927-2:2006+A1:2010 Smoke and heat control systems Part 2:Part 2: Specification for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilatorsISO 21927-3:2006+A1:2010 Smoke and heat control systems Part 3: Specification for powered smoke and heat exhaust ventilators


References to these ISO standards will make this a more complete Standard, they may need references in other parts of the Standard during Drafting


Submitter Full Name: Geoffrey HarrisOrganization: Smoke and Fire Engineering TecAffilliation: ISOTC21SC11 Smoke Control CommitteeSubmittal Date: Sat Sep 22 08:44:35 EDT 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-13-NFPA 92-2013. ISO standards have been added to Annex A in section A.5.5.2.4 and are now referenced in M.1. Additional ISO standards not referenced in Annex A are listed for reference in M.2.

Statement: Annex M has been revised to reflect the most up to date standards. The committee will review the informational references in M.2 more thoroughly during the Second Draft meeting. ISO standards have been added to annex A and are now referenced in M.1. Additional ISO standards not referenced in Annex A are listed for reference in M.2.


I, Geoffrey Harris, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement ofProblem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Geoffrey Harris, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature




4.1.2*The specific objectives to be achieved over the design interval time shall include one or more of the following:

(1) Containing the smoke to the zone of fire origin

(2) Maintaining a tenable environment within exit stairwells for the time necessary to allow occupants to exit the building

(3) Maintaining a tenable environment within all exit access and smoke refuge area access paths for the time necessary to allow occupants to reach an exit or smoke refuge area

(4) Maintaining the smoke layer interface to a predetermined elevation in large volume spaces

(5) Conforming to the requirements of Section 6.5 regarding the over-ride of energy management systems


There are a lot of moving parts in the US energy standard space that are increasing the complexity of air-handling systems. Air volume, speed, temperature, signaling and control concepts are being revised on a near-weekly basis. Designers will likely have to work a little harder to meet the competing objectives of safety and economy especially in non-dedicated smoke control regimes. Getting the reference to Section 6.5 in a direct reference will emphasize the additional dimension that energy conservation objectives add to designing practical smoke management systems.


Submitter Full Name: Michael Anthony

Organization: University of Michigan

Affilliation: APPA.ORG - Leadership in Education (US Education Facilities Industry)Submittal Date: Mon Jan 07 10:09:49 EST 2013

Committee Statement

Resolution: The new section is not an objective, it is a means to achieve one of the other objectives in this section. Section 6.5 states that the energy management systems should be overridden. This new section is redundant.


I, Michael Anthony, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement ofProblem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.



By checking this box I affirm that I am Michael Anthony, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature




4.3.1 Smoke Containment Systems. The design approach for smoke containment systems shall be one of or the pressurization of one or a combination of the following:

(1) Stairwell pressurization Stairwells

(2) Zoned pressurization areas

(3) Elevator pressurization Elevators

(4) Vestibule pressurization Vestibules

(5) Smoke refuge area pressurization areas


Reduce repetitive language and provide requirements more concisely.


Submitter Full Name: Bill GallowayOrganization: Southern Regional Fire Code DeSubmittal Date: Tue Aug 28 15:54:05 EDT 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: The rewording is unncessary.


I, Bill Galloway, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Bill Galloway, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature



Public Input No. 6-NFPA 92-2012 [ Sections 4.4.2.1.2, 4.4.2.1.3,

4.4.2.1.4, 4.4.2.1.5 ]

Sections 4.4.2.1.2, 4.4.2.1.3, 4.4.2.1.4, 4.4.2.1.54.4.2.1.2 Where the system designer has determined that a higher minimum designpressure difference is necessary to achieve the smoke control systemobjectives, the higher minimum pressure design pressure difference shall be used.4.4.2.1.3 .2.1 The minimum allowable pressure difference shall restrict smoke leakage during building evacuation to a level that maintains a tenable environment in areas outside the smoke zone.4.4.2.1.4 .2.2 The minimum pressure difference for smoke control systems shall be established at a level that is high enough that it will not be overcome by the forces of wind, stack effect, or buoyancy of hot smoke.4.4.2.1.5 .2.3 The calculations shall take into account the design number of doors to be opened simultaneously.


These sections try to address requirements for the minimum design pressure difference but the language is inconsistent in that it refers to the design pressure difference as “higher minimum”, “minimum allowable”, and “minimum” all in similar context. Sections 4.4.2.1.3, .4, and .5 all address criteria the minimum design pressure difference must meet and thus should be subsections to 4.4.2.1.2.



Committee Statement

Resolution: The term design is unnecessary and creates confusion. The sections that were renumbered need to remain separate sections and should not be subsections of 4.4.2.1.2


I, Bill Galloway, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.



Public Input No. 7-NFPA 92-2012 [ Section No. 4.4.2.2 ]

4.4.2.2* Pressure Maximum Pressure Differences Across Doors. The pressure differences across doors shall not cause the maximum force permitted to begin opening the door to exceed the value stipulated in NFPA101, Life Safety Code, or local state or local codes and regulations.


The name of this section should reflect that it addresses the “maximum” pressure differences across doors. This change would be more consistent with code language in 4.4.2.1.1 which addresses the “minimum” pressure differences between specified spaces. Some states do not allow local codes or regulations to supersede that of the state codes or regulations, therefore “state” codes and regulations should be added.



Committee Statement

Resolution: Section 4.4.2.2 describes the maximum force later in the section. The title of the section should remain "Pressure Differences Across Doors".


I, Bill Galloway, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I herebywarrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.





This text should replace the entire current 5.5.2 Balcony Spill Plumes. Note: Equations are currently in SI format only. Equivalent imperial format equations will need to be added. (See the uploaded file for thisrecommendation)5.5. 2 Balcony Spill Plumes. 5.5.2.1*Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume and the height, zb , of the smoke layer is

W = width of the plume (ft or m)w = width of the opening from the area of origin (ft or m)b = distance from the opening to the balcony edge (ft or m)

5.5.2.6*Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume and the height, zb , of the smoke layer is

= mass flow entering the smoke layer at height zb (kg/sec)

= convective heat output (kW)

W = length of the spill (m)zb = height of plume above the balcony edge (m)H = height of balcony above the base of the fire (m)

5.5.2.8*For high smoke layer interface heights (zb ? 50 ft [15 m]), both a balcony spill plume fire scenario and an atrium fire scenario (axisymmetric plume using Equation 5.5.1.1b or 5.5.1.1e) with appropriate design fire sizes shall be evaluated and the higher mass flow rate used for the design of the atrium smoke management system.

Additional Proposed Changes

File Name Description Approved

92_L1_Rec.docx 92 PI14 Recommendation

92_L1_BS_EN_12101-8_2011.pdf BS_EN_12101 Supporting

92_L1_Roger_Harrison_PhD_Thesis_2009_fulltext.pdf 92 Roger_Harrison Supporting nfpa92_proposal_5.5_p_compton.pdf Cover Sheet


Since the current design calculations were developed, further research and modeling on balcony spill plumes has been carried out by R Harrison at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. This work significantly increases the data base for development of calculations and new calculations are proposed which increase the accuracy over all previous methods. This amendment replaces the existing NFPA 92 spill plume calculations with the new ones developed by Harrison.Since the Harrison calculations use the mass flow and flowing layer depth at the spill

edge a new section has been added to allow calculation of these, based on calculations from NFPA 204 and H Morgan.The Harrison calculations are currently being incorporated into the European Standard

EN 12101 for its next revision.Note: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA Headquarters.


Submitter Full Name: Paul ComptonOrganization: Colt International, Ltd.Submittal Date: Tue Dec 11 08:49:26 EST 2012

Committee Statement



5.5.2* Balcony Spill Plumes

5.5.2.1 Before a balcony spill plume can be calculated, the mass flow at the spill edge and the flowing layer depth at the spill edge must be known.

5.5.2.1.1* The mass flow and flowing layer depth leaving the fire compartment shall be calculated by iteration. Set a value for the height of the smoke layer boundary above the floor and calculate the mass rate of smoke production according to 9.2.3 of NFPA 204, 2012 edition. Use the calculated value for the mass rate of smoke production in Equation 5.2.1.1a or 5.2.1.1b to calculate the depth of the flowing smoke layer from the compartment. Iterate until the height of the smoke layer boundary and the depth of the flowing smoke layer equals the height of the opening.

2/12/1

36.0

ofof

ff

df TWTT

TmC

d (5.5.2.1b)

where:

df = depth of the flowing smoke layer out of the opening (m)

mf = mass flow rate at opening (kg/sec)

Wf = width of the opening (m)

Tf = temperature of the smoke layer (K)

To= ambient temperature (K)

Cd = Flow coefficient = 1.0 if no downstand is present at the opening or 0.6 if a downstand is present

5.5.2.1.2 Where the spill edge width equals the opening width and there is no downstand, ms = mf and d = df.

5.5.2.1.3 Where the spill edge width equals the opening width and there is a downstand, ms = 2mf and d = 2df.

5.5.2.1.4 Where the spill edge width is not constrained by barriers and there is no downstand, ms = mf and d = dfW/(W+b).

5.5.2.1.5 Where the spill edge width is not constrained by barriers and there is a downstand, ms = 2mf and d = 2dfW/(W+b).

5.5.2.2 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume with four free edges (not contacting the walls of the large volume space) and where z

where:

m = mass flow rate in plume (kg/sec)

Qc = convective heat release rate from the fire (kW)

W = width of the spill edge (m)

d = depth of the flowing smoke layer under the spill edge (m)

zb = height of the plume above the balcony edge (m)

ms = mass flow rate at the spill edge (kg/s)

5.5.2.3 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume with four free edges (not contacting the walls of the large volume space) and where zb≥ztrans, the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated for an axisymmetric plume using Equation 5.5.1.1e.

5.5.2.4 Above a certain height a balcony spill plume with four free edges can be considered equivalent to an axisymmetric plume. The height at which this occurs shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.4a or 5.5.2.4b as follows:

Ztrans = 3.4(W2/3+1.56d2/3)3/2 (5.5.2.4b)

where:

ztrans = transition height above the spill edge (m)


d = depth of the flowing layer under the spill edge (m)

5.5.2.5 Where the smoke plume is a balcony plume with two free sides and ends constrained by the walls of the large volume space, the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.5a or 5.5.2.5b as follows:

m = 0.16Qc1/3W2/3zb+1.34ms (5.5.2.5b)

where:




Zb = height of the plume above the balcony edge (m)


5.5.2.6 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume rising adjacent to a wall above the balcony and where 3d>W the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.2a or 5.5.2.2b.

5.5.2.7 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume rising adjacent to a wall above the balcony and where W≤13d the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.7a or 5.5.2.7b as follows:

m = 0.3Qc1/3W1/6d1/2zb+1.34ms (5.5.2.7b)

where:




d = depth of the flowing smoke layer under the spill edge (m)

zb = height of the plume above the balcony edge (m)


5.5.2.8 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume rising adjacent to a wall above the balcony and where W>13d the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.9a or 5.5.2.9b.

5.5.2.9 Where the smoke plume is a balcony spill plume rising adjacent to a wall above the balcony and where the ends of the plume are constrained by the walls of the large volume space, the mass rate of smoke production shall be calculated using Equation 5.5.2.9a or 5.5.2.9b as follows:

m = 0.08Qc1/3W2/3zb+1.34ms (5.5.2.9b)

where:




Zb = height of the plume above the balcony edge (m)


5.5.2.10 The equations in 5.5.2.1 to 5.5.2.9 shall not be used when the temperature rise above ambient (Tp-To) is less than 4oF (2.2oC). (See 5.5.5)

5.5.2.11 (Use existing 5.5.2.3)

5.5.2.12 (Use existing 5.5.2.4)

5.5.2.13* (Use existing 5.5.2.5)

5.5.2.14* (Use existing 5.5.2.8)

Resolution: CI-9-NFPA 92-2013. The committee agrees with the intent of this submittal but would like to hold this item for further review until the Second Draftmeetings.

Statement: The committee agrees with the intent of these changes but would like to hold this item for further review until the Second Draft meetings.This change was submitted under PI 14, 15, 16.


I, Paul Compton, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. Except to the extent that I may lack authority to make an assignment of content identified above, I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyrightassignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Paul Compton, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature

Origin (from sources other than the submitter)

The text is mine except where copied from NFPA 92. The formulae and figures are from Harrison.



Public Input No. 17-NFPA 92-2012 [ Sections 6.3.1, 6.3.2 ]

Sections 6.3.1, 6.3.26.3.1 1* Smoke dampers used to protect openings in smoke barriers or used as safety-related dampers in engineered smoke control systems shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ANSI/UL 555S, Standard for Smoke Dampers, or other approved, nationally recognized standards .6.3.2 Combination fire and smoke dampers shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ANSI/UL 555, Standard for Fire Dampers, and ANSI/UL 555S, Standard for Smoke Dampers, or other approved, nationally recognizedstandards .


File Name Description Approved92_L1_BS_EN_12101-8_2011.pdf EN12101


This wording and statement are equivalent to those already added to NFPA 204 for natural ventilators. Bearing in mind that NFPA standards are used throughout the world it is reasonable that listings/certificates valid in those countries should be accepted by this design standard.Note: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA Headquarters.



Committee Statement

Resolution: Using other approved standards is already covered under the equivalency section 1.4.







The text is derived from text in NFPA 204.




6.4.1 1* Control systems shall be listed in accordance with ANSI/UL 864, Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems, category UUKL, or other approved, nationally recognized standards for their intended purpose.




This wording and statement are equivalent to those already added to NFPA 204 for natural ventilators. Bearing in mind that NFPA standards are used throughout the world it is reasonable that listings/certificates valid in those countries should be accepted by this design standard.



Committee Statement



I, Paul Compton, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.




Public Input No. 8-NFPA 92-2012 [ Section No. 6.4.6 [Excluding any

Sub-Sections] ]

When stairwell pressurization systems are provided, they shall be activated as described in 6.4.6.1 through 6.4.6.4.1 2 .


Section 6.4.6.4.2 also describes a form of activation of stairwell pressurization and should be included in Section 6.4.6 reference.



Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-6-NFPA 92-2013Statement: Section 6.4.6.4.2 also describes a form of activation of stairwell pressurization

and should be included in Section 6.4.6 reference.







6.4.8.6 Operational Dedicated smoke control equipment shall be providedwith electrical monitoring of the control components (supervision) orthe operational capability of dedicated the smoke control equipment shall be verified using the weekly self-test function provided by the UUKL-listed smoke control panel mandated by 6.4.1.


I was unable to find a technical justification for the weekly test requirement added to the 2005 code cycle. My assumption was the technical committee added this requirement to align the requirements of NFPA 92B with that of the International Fire Code (IFC) which has had this provision since the 2000 edition.

Adding the proposed language will allow a supervised smoke control system to serve as an equivalent to the weekly testing. There are operations in some facilities that would be adversely affected by the operation of the weekly test feature required by Section 6.4.8.6. Allowing a supervised smoke control system to serve as an equivalent to the weekly testing will avoid the adverse conditions caused by a weekly test.

The IFC Commentary states, "The system is able to verify actuations, testing, manual overrides and the presence of power downstream. This would require information reported back to the smoke control panel, which can be accomplished via the weekly test sequence or through full electronic monitoring of the system.

It should be noted that electrical monitoring of the control components is not required (supervision). Such supervision verifies integrity of the conductors from a fire alarm control unit to the control system input. The weekly test is considered sufficient verification of system performance and is often termed end-to-end verification. In other words, the control system input provides the expected results."


Submitter Full Name: Waymon JacksonOrganization: University of Texas at AustinSubmittal Date: Wed Dec 19 08:02:44 EST 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: See the action on FR-10-NFPA 92-2013. Electrical supervision is alreadycovered in the document.

Statement: Operational capability does not have to be verified by weekly self tests. It can be done by other means.




I, Waymon Jackson, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Waymon Jackson, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature




6.6.1 1* Materials used for systems providing smoke control shall conform to NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, or other approved, nationally recognized standards and other applicable NFPA documents.







Committee Statement










7.2.2 The design report shall include the following elements, if applicable:

(1) System purpose

(2) System design objectives

(3) Design approach

(4) Design assumptions (building height, ambient conditions, reliance on other fire protection systems, leakage, etc.)

(5) Location of smoke zone(s)

(6) Design pressure differences(7) Building use limitations that arise out of the system design

(8) Design calculations

(9) Fan and duct specifications

(10) Damper specifications

(11) Detailed inlet or exhaust inlets site information

(12) Detailed method of activation

(13) Smoke control system operation logic

(14) System commissioning procedures

(15) System periodic testing procedures


Proper maintenance of the smoke control system during the life of the building is essential to ensure the system will perform its intended function under fire conditions. Since development of the design report, including commissioning procedures of the involved smoke control system, requires that all parties including the designers, owners, and authorities having jurisdiction reach a consensus agreement on testing procedures and have a clear understanding of the system objectives , this is the best time for the designer to develop periodic testing procedures to be used to maintain the system over the life of the building, rather than relying on the owner alone to develop them.



Committee Statement

Resolution: Periodic testing procedures are already covered in 7.3.1.





8.4.1* General. Acceptance testing shall demonstrate that the final integrated system installation complies with the specific design and is functioning properly according to criterion in NFPA 4 - Standard for Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety System Testing .


NFPA 4 is a relatively new document that will help our industry to perform commissioning of smoke management systems in the first cost of the building construction budget. This is likely to reduce long term inspection, testing and maintenance cost.





Committee Statement

Resolution: NFPA 4 has not yet been published. The committee needs to further research how this document will impact NFPA 92. It is the intent of the committee to coordinate the requirements of NFPA 4 with NFPA 92 during the Second Draft.


I, Michael Anthony, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.




Public Input No. 26-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after 8.6 ]

Inspection Records8.6.9 Inspection records shall be submitted to the AHJ.


This ensures that the AHJ is notified and provided with periodic inspection documents.


Submitter Full Name: Jim MuirOrganization: Building Safety DivisionAffilliation: NFPA's Building Code Development Committee (BCDC)Submittal Date: Thu Dec 20 14:36:09 EST 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: The standard requires the owner to maintain the records in 8.6.5.1. Testing results are included in the operations and maintenance log and are available during inspections.


I, Jim Muir, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and fullrights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Jim Muir, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature




8.6.1*Proper maintenance of the system shall, as a minimum, include the periodic testing of all equipment, such as initiating devices, fans, dampers, controls, doors, and windows.

8.6.1.1 Dedicated systems shall be tested at least semiannually.

8.6.1.2 Non-dedicated systems shall be tested at least annually.

8.6.1.3 The Design Report documents shall include periodic testingprocedures and acceptance (e.g., pass/fail) criteria.


The section on the frequency of testing is not clear. Systems should be either dedicated or non-dedicated. Relocation of the testing frequency requirements in one section should provide more clarity.

Addition of subsection 8.6.1.3 to ensure the owner and authority having jurisdiction have a clear and defined procedure and criteria for required periodic testing of the smoke control system over the life of the building. Proper maintenance of the smoke control system during the life of the building is essential to ensure the system will perform its intended function under fire conditions. Since development of the design report, including commissioning procedures of the involved smoke control system, requires that all parties including the designers, owners, and authorities having jurisdiction reach a consensus agreement on testing procedures and have a clear understanding of the system objectives, the design report should include periodic testing and acceptance procedures, rather than relying on the owner alone to develop them.



Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-11-NFPA 92-2013. the periodic testing procedures and acceptance criteria are already covered in 7.3.1. The sections should be deleted from 8.6.7 and 8.6.8.

Statement: The list of examples was removed from the requirements in accordance with the Manual of Style. Examples are included in the Annex note.






8.6.5.1 The results of the tests shall be documented in the operations and maintenance log and made available for inspection.

8.6.5.1.1 Testing shall be conducted and a final report submitted within 90 days after the completion of testing.8.6.5.1.2 Testing and auditing of records shall be performed in order to issue a certificate of compliance.8.6.5.1.2.1* Testing shall include the verification that devices are properly annunciated at the control panel, verification that system function by placing zones into alarm and checking the input and output signals and device functionality against the information contained within the approved smoke control report. A.8.6.5.1.2.1 - All testing should be coordinated with the companies holding the maintenance contracts for the fire alarm system, fire sprinkler system, HVAC, kitchen hood, etc. Auditing of records should include verification of the location and integrity of smoke zone boundaries to approved documents, review of maintenance records of devices and equipment making up the smoke control system (initiating devices, fans, dampers, controls, doors and windows if self or automatic closing), verify that the appropriate maintenance requirements are being met by the facility, and previous testing done in conjunction with fire alarm system testing. Documentation should also be on forms submitted as a part of the preliminary smoke control report.8.6.5.1.2.2. The AHJ shall be notified immediately in writing, whenever it is discovered that any component or system is inoperable and is creating a life threatening situation.8.6.5.1.2.2* Upon discovery of any non-complying aspect of the smoke control system that cannot be corrected immediately, the testing individual must notify the owner and AHJ prior to them concluding the testing and leaving for the day. All non-complying aspects must be corrected to ensure that the smoke control system is properly operating as designed.


Inspection and periodic testing of existing smoke control systems

Mechanical smoke-control systems, such as those in high-rise buildings, buildings containing atria, covered mall buildings and mechanical ventilation systems utilized in smoke proof enclosures and for smoke-removal systems utilized in high-piled combustible storage occupancies, and must be maintained in an operable condition at all times.

The minimum level of life safety and property protection as originally designed into the building must be maintained by verifying through inspections and testing that the existing smoke control system continue to operate in accordance with the approved design.

To assist in the standardization for these procedures we have proposed the following to assist in describing the testing of existing smoke control systems and to provide a guideline for qualified inspectors to utilize when testing these systems.




Submitter Full Name: Kelly NicolelloOrganization: Western Regional Fire Code DevSubmittal Date: Thu Aug 16 11:59:52 EDT 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: This is the responsibility of the owner, not the companies holding maintenance contracts. This document does not specifiy the contract arragements.


I, Kelly Nicolello, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in anypublication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Kelly Nicolello, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature



Public Input No. 11-NFPA 92-2012 [ Sections 8.6.7, 8.6.8 ]

Sections 8.6.7, 8.6.88.6.7 Dedicated systems shall be tested at least semiannually.8.6.8 Nondedicated systems shall be tested at least annually.


The section on the frequency of testing is not clear. Systems should be either dedicated or non-dedicated. Relocation of the testing frequency requirements in one section should provide more clarity.

Addition of subsection 8.6.1.3 to ensure the owner and authority having jurisdiction have a clear and defined procedure and criteria for required periodic testing of the smoke control system over the life of the building. Proper maintenance of the smoke control system during the life of the building is essential to ensure the system will perform its intended function under fire conditions. Since development of the design report, including commissioning procedures of the involved smoke control system, requires that all parties including the designers, owners, and authorities having jurisdiction reach a consensus agreement on testing procedures and have a clear understanding of the system objectives, the design report should include periodic testing and acceptance procedures, rather than relying on the owner alone to develop them.

Related Public Inputs for This Document

Related Input RelationshipPublic Input No. 10-NFPA 92-2012 [Section No. 8.6.1]



Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-11-NFPA 92-2013. the periodic testing procedures and acceptance criteria are already covered in 7.3.1. The sections should be deleted from 8.6.7 and 8.6.8.

Statement: The list of examples was removed from the requirements in accordance with the Manual of Style. Examples are included in the Annex note.





8.6.9 Certificate of Compliance Tag8.6.9.1. At completion of the acceptance test and periodic testing, a tag or other marking shall be attached to the smoke control panel indicating compliance and operability of the system.


Inspection and periodic testing of existing smoke control systems

Mechanical smoke-control systems, such as those in high-rise buildings, buildings containing atria, covered mall buildings and mechanical ventilation systems utilized in smoke proof enclosures and for smoke-removal systems utilized in high-piled combustible storage occupancies, and must be maintained in an operable condition at all times.

The minimum level of life safety and property protection as originally designed into the building must be maintained by verifying through inspections and testing that the existing smoke control system continue to operate in accordance with the approved design.

To assist in the standardization for these procedures we have proposed the following to assist in describing the testing of existing smoke control systems and to provide a guideline for qualified inspectors to utilize when testing these systems.


Submitter Full Name: Kelly NicolelloOrganization: Western Regional Fire Code DevSubmittal Date: Thu Aug 16 12:01:44 EDT 2012

Committee Statement

Resolution: The certificate of occupancy is equivalent to the certificate of compliance tag. Periodic testing requires a log of inspections. This is outside the scope of thestandard, this is a jurisdictional requirement.


I, Kelly Nicolello, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I herebywarrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.

By checking this box I affirm that I am Kelly Nicolello, and I agree to be legally bound by the above Copyright Assignment and the terms and conditions contained therein. I understand and intend that, by checking this box, I am creating an electronic signature that will, upon my submission of this form, have the same legal force and effect as a handwritten signature




8.6.9 Where the conditions of supervision and maintenance are acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, testing intervals may be relaxed according to occupancy class, hazard of contents. and/or the complexity of the smoke management system.


In order to make this document work for our industry, it needs to contain language that recognizes the safety advantages of an on-site staff on a single contiguous piece of property with dozens of buildings in close proximity (i.e a campus or a research hospital complex). In many cases there is a central constantly attended location where fire alarm signals are managed by a professionally trained, on-site, 7/24/365 maintenance staff and it has occupants that are relatively familiar with the building. Fixed interval testing may not be as cost effective as being able to scale grim testing resources according to the risk profile of different buildings or the campus as a whole.





Committee Statement

Resolution: The submitter did not suggest any guidelines or parameters for the relaxed testing intervals. The term "relaxed" is vague and unenforceable.


I, Michael Anthony, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement ofProblem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.




Public Input No. 16-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after A.5.5.1.1 ]

A.5.5.2 The equations given in 5.5.2.2 through to 5.5.2.9 are based on research carried out by Harrison (89). A wide range of possible balcony spill plume scenarios were represented in 1/10 scale modeling and the results were extended using CFD. The number of scenarios far exceeded any previous research. The results were compared against existing correlations published in NFPA 92B, CIBSE Guide E, BR368, etc. Each existing correlation provided good results over a limited range of scenarios. Harrison proposed new correlations which are valid over a wider range. Scenarios with balcony spill plumes involve smoke rising above a fire, reaching a ceiling, balcony or other significant horizontal projection, then travelling horizontallytoward the edge of the “balcony”. Characteristics of the resulting balcony spill plume depend on characteristics of the fire, width of the spill plume and height of the ceiling above the fire. In addition the path of the horizontal travel from the plume centerline to the balcony edge is significant.Agreement of the predictions from the equations with those from the experiments is

presented in Figures A.5.5.2a to A.5.5.2?.

[Note: Figures to follow]

A.5.5.2.1.1 Smoke flowing under a ceiling will have a minimum depth dependent upon the geometry, the mass flow rate and the temperature of the smoke. Work by Morgan (88) has shown that this depth can be calculated for unidirectional flow, forexample through an opening or under a balcony. Equations 5.5.2.1a and 5.5.2.1bare the equation presented by Morgan. Knowledge of this depth, at the spill edge, is needed for calculation of the balcony spill plume using the method proposed by Harrison (89), which forms the basis for 5.5.2. New references: 88. Morgan H P. The horizontal flow of buoyant gases toward an opening. Fire Safety Journal, 11, 193-200, 1986. 89. Harrison R. Entrainment of air into thermal spill plumes. PhD thesis, University of Canterbury, NZ, 2009.









Committee Statement










Public Input No. 15-NFPA 92-2012 [ Sections A.5.5.2.1, A.5.5.2.5,

A.5.5.2.6, A.5.5.2.7, A.5.5.... ]

Sections A.5.5.2.1, A.5.5.2.5, A.5.5.2.6, A.5.5.2.7, A.5.5.2.8A.5.5.2.

1 Equation 5.5.2.1 is based on Law's interpretation [22] of small-scale experiments by Morgan and Marshall [35]. Scenarios with balcony spill plumes involve smoke rising above a fire, reaching a ceiling, balcony, or other significant horizontal projection, then traveling horizontally toward the edge of the “balcony.” Characteristics of the resulting balcony spill plume depend on characteristics of the fire, width of the spill plume, and height of the ceiling above the fire. In addition, the path of horizontal travel from the plume centerline to the balcony edge is significant.

Agreement of the predictions from Equation 5.5.2.1 with those from small-scale experimental efforts is presented in Figure A.5.5.2.1 . Whereas the agreement is quite good, the results are from only two small-scale experimental programs.

The results of full-scale tests conducted as part of a joint research project involving the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers and the National Research Council (Lougheed [27]; Lougheed [28]) indicate that the balcony spill plume equation developed by Law provides a reasonable but conservative estimate for smoke layer interface heights up to 50 ft (15 m).

The full-scale tests as well as research conducted at Building Research Establishment (BRE) using scale physical models (Marshall and Harrison [30]) indicate that higher smoke production rates than predicted by spill plume equations can be produced in a small atrium of 10 m × 10 m × 19 m in height. The additional smoke production has been attributed to the recirculation of the ceiling jet produced by the spill plume in the atrium space resulting inadditional air entrainment. This additional smoke production is more likely tooccur for scenarios with narrow openings (7.5 m) and with draft curtains. For asmall atrium, it is recommended that the final design be supported by a modeling study.

Figure A.5.5.2.1 Agreement Between Predictions and Experimental Values (Morgan and Marshall [35]; Mulholland [37]).

A.5.5.2.5 13



Visual observations of the width of the balcony spill plume at the balcony edge were made in a set of small-scale experiments by Morgan and Marshall [35] and analyzed by Law [22]. In those experiments, the fire was in a communicating space immediately adjacent to the atrium. An equivalent width can be defined by equating the entrainment from an unconfined balcony spill plume to that from a confined balcony spill plume.The results of full-scale tests conducted as part of a joint research projectinvolving the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers and the National Research Council (Lougheed [27]; Lougheed [28]) indicate that the equation for the width of the unconfined spill plume is valid for spill plumes from compartments with opening widths of 16 ft (5 m) to 46 ft (14 m).

A.5.5.2.6

Equations 5.5.2.6a and 5.5.2.6b are based on a parametric study using CFD model simulations (Lougheed [28]; McCartney, Lougheed, and Weckman [31]) to determine the best fit for the parameters to determine smoke production rates in a high atrium. The virtual origin term for the equation was determined such that Equation 5.5.2.6a or 5.5.2.6b provides the same estimate for the mass flow rate for a smoke layer interface height at 50 ft (15 m) as Equation 5.5.2.1a or 5.5.2.1b. For narrow spill plumes, the initially rectangular plume will evolve to an axisymmetric plume as it rises, resulting in a higher smoke production rate than that predicted by Equation 5.5.2.7a or 5.5.2.7b. It is recommended that the final design be supported by a CFD modeling study.A.5.5.2.7 Equations 5.5.2.7a and 5.5.2.7b are similar to the algebraic equation used to determine smoke production by a line plume originating in the large-volume space (CIBSE [3]). The equations are also comparable to the algebraic equations determined for a spill plume based on an infinite line plume approximation (Morgan et al. [34]). The virtual origin term for the equations was determined such that Equation 5.5.2.7a or 5.5.2.7b provides the same estimate for the mass flow rate for a smoke layer interface height at 50 ft (15 m) as Equation 5.5.2.1a or 5.5.2.1b. It is recommended that the final design be supported by a CFD modeling study.A.5.5.2.8

For 14 For high smoke layer interface heights, a fire in an atrium can result in a higher smoke production rate than a balcony spill plume.

Figure A.5.5.2.

814 compares the mass flow rates in the spill plume estimated using Figure Equation 61 (Equation 5.5.2.1a or 5.5.2.1b), Figure Equation 63 (Equation 5.5.2.7a or 5.5.2.7b), and Figure Equation 64 (Equation 5.5.2.6a or 5.5.2.6b) for a design fire with a convective heat release rate of 1000 kW and a balcony height of 16 ft (5 m) and spill widths of 16 ft (5 m) and 33 ft (10 m). The estimated mass flow rates are the same at the 50 ft (15 m) height above the balcony. Also, Figure Equations 63 and 64 provide comparable results for the case with the 33 ft (10 m) spill width.Figure A.5.5.2.

8 Estimated 14 Estimated Mass Flow Rates.




File Name Description Approved92_L1_BS_EN_12101-8_2011.pdf EN12101 nfpa92_proposal_5.5_p_compton.pdf Cover Sheet







Committee Statement







Public Input No. 18-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after A.6.2.4 ]

A.6.3.1 There are ISO standards for smoke control products (ISO 21927-various parts). The ISO standards are technically equivalent to European (EN) standards for these products (EN 12101-various parts). Products that carry the CE mark, which is mandatory for sale of these products within the European Union, are subject to independent testing and ongoing factory production control by Notified Bodies appointed by national governments.


This wording and statement are equivalent to those already added to NFPA 204 for natural ventilators. Bearing in mind that NFPA standards are used throughout the world it is reasonable that listings/certificates valid in those countries should be accepted by this design standard.Note: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA Headquarters.



Committee Statement




I, Paul Compton, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. Except tothe extent that I may lack authority to make an assignment of content identified above, I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyrightassignment.






Public Input No. 20-NFPA 92-2012 [ New Section after A.6.4 ]






Committee Statement




I, Paul Compton, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. I herebywarrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyright assignment.










Committee Statement




I, Paul Compton, hereby irrevocably grant and assign to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) all and full rights in copyright in this Public Input (including both the Proposed Change and the Statement of Problem and Substantiation). I understand and intend that I acquire no rights, including rights as a joint author, in any publication of the NFPA in which this Public Input in this or another similar or derivative form is used. Except tothe extent that I may lack authority to make an assignment of content identified above, I hereby warrant that I am the author of this Public Input and that I have full power and authority to enter into this copyrightassignment.







A.8.6.5 Approved persons who are qualified and knowledgeable in how to conduct periodic testing should have credentials and be knowledgeable on the process and procedures on how to re-certify and test any smoke control system. These individuals may be either a professional engineer (Fire Protection, Mechanical or Electrical Engineer) with detailed experience in engineered smoke c

public input no. 27-nfpa 92-2012 [ new section after 1.5 ] … · 2016. 3. 29. · public input no....

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