Are There Fire Regulations in Place For Electrical Rooms?
You might think that water and electricity don’t go together. And though you are right, there are certain exceptions to this rule. Sprinkler systems are put in place to help save lives and suppress property damage by smothering the flames. But, what about in electrical rooms? The value of property in a room like this is substantial and could potentially cost a company thousands to replace. So, are there fire regulations for electrical rooms? Find out more here.
Do Electrical Spaces Need a Sprinkler System?
Several fires have begun in server rooms but were put out by a single sprinkler head, preventing the fire from spreading beyond the room where it started. However, sprinklers and water mist systems can be left off in “areas or rooms where water discharge might provide a threat,” according to the guidelines.
Sprinklers, in particular, are subject to a risk assessment when their usage is suggested in regions where electrical dangers exist. According to the International Building Code (IBC), sprinklers are still required, despite whether there’s damp, fire-resistance-rated construction, or contains electrical equipment.
NFPA 13 Guidance
According to fire regulations, fire sprinklers may be omitted in electrical rooms under NFPA 13, but only if all of the following conditions are met:
- The area is solely for electrical equipment
- Only dry-tape or liquid-type fluid electrical equipment with stated K-class is used
- The equipment is housed in a 2-hour fire-rated container with penetration protection
- The room does not allow storage
Nevertheless, buildings that do have sprinklers missing in one of the IBC’s authorised sections would still be regarded as fully “sprinklered” throughout and in compliance with code and NFPA 13. This distinction is significant since it determines whether or not you are eligible for code alternatives, exceptions, or reductions.
What Are the Disadvantages of Sprinklers and Electrical Rooms?
So, it all depends on the room and the features surrounding it. Fire sprinkler systems are known to save lives and property damage in both residential and commercial buildings. However, in an electrical room, this is slightly different.
There can be a risk if there is a sprinkler system in place for the responding firefighters. When they go into the building to deal with the flames, the water could release over live equipment and cause the fuse to blow. There is also a chance of water damage to electrical equipment and losing certain pieces of unretrievable data.
However, though it is debatable whether sprinklers should be included in the fire regulations of electrical rooms, there is no question of their benefits to every other room in a building. Ensure you go with a professional fire sprinkler company that can efficiently and correctly install the desired system into your building.
RAD Fire Sprinklers
Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we promote and install fire sprinklers throughout residential and commercial buildings in the UK. Sprinklers are the most effective fire prevention system and are ideal in situations where there is a high risk. Especially in electrical rooms. We understand the benefits of sprinkler systems, understand the building and fire regulations and are trained to ensure installation is efficient.
To find out more, or to receive a quote, why not fill in our online form? A member of our team will shortly be in touch to see how we can help you. Or, give us a call on 01892 680 090 and speak to us today.
