National Fire Protection Association

Automatic Sprinkler Systems Handbook - THIRTEENTH EDITION
 N 13H

Annotation

Multiple paragraphs and tables in Annex A were revised by tentative interim amendments (TIAs).

This standard provides a range of sprinkler system approaches, design development alternatives, and component options that are all acceptable. Building owners and their designated representatives are advised to carefully evaluate proposed selections for appropriateness and preference.

The scope of NFPA 13 states that the standard includes the minimum requirements for design and installation of sprinkler systems employing automatic or open sprinklers that discharge water to suppress or control a fire. The phrase minimum requirements does not mean that the criteria is marginally acceptable, but rather it defines what is required for a reasonable level of protection.

This standard shall provide the minimum requirements for the design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems and exposure protection sprinkler systems covered within this standard.

This standard shall not provide requirements for the design or installation of water mist fire protection systems, which are not considered fire sprinkler systems and are addressed by NFPA 750.

The definition of sprinkler system in 3.3.23 could be misconstrued to include a water mist system, so 1.1.2 clarifies that NFPA 13 does not address other water-based systems, such as water spray systems installed in accordance with NFPA 15.

This standard is written with the assumption that the sprinkler system shall be designed to protect against a single fire originating within the building.

In recent years, there have been several fires originating on the building exterior that have impacted the building, including fires started by discarded smoking materials in landscaped areas or fires originating at exterior utility equipment. NFPA 13 does not require an exterior exposure protection system to address these types of fires.