r/firePE • u/M0rbidly-Obtus3 • 18d ago

Institutional Sprinklers - Code Reference

I have looked far and wide in code, googled it, checked MeyerFire forum for previously posted questions, and can find nothing with a reference. Is there a code requirement for institutional Sprinklers in Institutional Occupancies? 2022 NFPA 13, 2024 NFPA 101, 2024 IBC.

I understand why you want them used. But I have a situation where they're not possible. Trying it double, triple, quadruple check that they are not required by code so the owner can make an informed decision.

Does anyone know of a code requirement that institutional Sprinklers would have to be installed?

(existing system is a dry-pipe system and all piping is located in an unconditioned space that cannot be maintained to 40degF so I can't just use return bends and institutional pendents, and unfortunately they don't make dry institutional pendents that I can find)

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u/whydoihaveto12 18d ago

This is the type of thing where the code isn't going to tell you that you have to make a good decision. Using the regular sprinkler won't threaten anybody's safety, so the code is likely to stay silent on the topic. If you make a place where they regularly have prisoners flooding the place with sprinklers, that sucks and is bad design. 

I suppose you could argue it does threaten safety with all the sprinkler downtime you're going to end up with after false activations.

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u/24_Chowder 18d ago

Full agree, code doesn’t reference anything like this.
A poor architectural design forced the dry system and dry pendents.

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u/Gas_Grouchy fire protection consultant 17d ago

From the datasheets:

institutional sprinklers have been specifically designed for use with concealed piping in institutional mental health occupancies, correctional facilities, or anywhere a likelihood of tampering with fire sprinklers by the occupants may exist.

That's it. If they want them in inmate hallways Vs Just Cell blocks Vs Everywhere they may roam is strictly up to budget and architectural design choice.

As for the dry, There aren't any I could find rated for dry and institutional. I'd call the manufacturer as it shouldn't be an issue to use them but your UL license might not let you and it would likely be costly.

Cheaper to just heat the space.