In terms of sprinkler protection, what differentiates storage facilities from non-storage facilities?
A. Overall, the purpose of storage facilities is to stockpile the maximum amount of materials into the smallest possible space while maintaining effective access for material handling. From a fire perspective, this translates into squeezing the maximum amount of combustibles into the smallest possible space while maintaining plenty of air access for efficient combustion. The net result is a prescription for maximized burning of large quantities of materials. The type, amount, and arrangement of combustible present relates to the type of fire hazard present. Within the context of NFPA 13, fire hazard links the burning characteristics of a fuel with the ability of a sprinkler system to control or suppress the associated fire. Determination of the fire hazard represents one of the most critical decisions concerning sprinkler system design. Chapter 2 of NFPA 13 provides information on how to classify fire hazards with respect to sprinkler protection.
Related Questions
- When are confined feeding operations or manure storage facilities considered "deemed" approvals, registrations or authorizations?
- In terms of sprinkler protection, what differentiates storage facilities from non-storage facilities?
- What physical characteristics set storage facilities apart form non-storage facilities?
