Section 26G: Automatic sprinkler systems required for buildings and structures totaling more than 7,500 gross square feet

Questions and Answers

What is the minimum gross square footage for a building or structure to require an automatic sprinkler system?

5,000 square feet

7,500 square feet (correct)

10,000 square feet

12,000 square feet

What must be sufficient for an automatic sprinkler system to be required?

Number of floors

Fire resistive walls

Building height

Water and water pressure (correct)

How is the gross square footage of a building or structure calculated?

By excluding interior fire resistive walls, floors, and ceilings

By including only the basements and sub-basements

By including the sum total of all floor levels, basements, sub-basements, and additions (correct)

By measuring only the main floor area

Which type of buildings are exempt from the requirements of Section 26G?

Agricultural buildings Signup and view all the answers

Who can permit the installation of alternative fire suppressant systems in certain areas where water discharge would be dangerous?

Head of the fire department Signup and view all the answers

In which areas of a telephone central office equipment building are automatic sprinkler systems not required?

Areas protected with an automatic fire alarm system Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum percentage of total wall area that must be open to the atmosphere for open-air parking structures to be exempt from sprinkler requirements?

25% Signup and view all the answers

How many sides of the structure must be open for open-air parking structures to qualify for exemption from sprinkler requirements?

Three sides Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for enforcing the provisions of Section 26G?

Head of the fire department Signup and view all the answers

Within how many days can an aggrieved person appeal the fire department's decision regarding the interpretation of Section 26G?

45 days Signup and view all the answers

To which board can an appeal be made regarding the head of the fire department's decisions under Section 26G?

Automatic sprinkler appeals board Signup and view all the answers

What can the automatic sprinkler appeals board grant after reviewing the characteristics of buildings with architectural or historical significance?

A reasonable waiver or alternative sprinkler system Signup and view all the answers

Section 26G does not apply to buildings used for which purpose?

Residential Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the head of the fire department under Section 26G?

Enforcing the provisions of the section Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can alternative fire suppressant systems be installed instead of automatic sprinklers?

If water discharge would be an actual danger in the event of fire Signup and view all the answers

What defines an open-air parking structure under Section 26G?

A structure with at least 25% of the total wall area open to the atmosphere at each level Signup and view all the answers

What happens if there is insufficient water and water pressure for an automatic sprinkler system?

The requirement for the sprinkler system is waived Signup and view all the answers

What should be measured to determine the gross square footage of a building?

From the outside walls Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Automatic Sprinkler Systems Requirements

Automatic sprinkler systems are mandated for buildings and structures exceeding 7,500 gross square feet.

Key Requirements

The requirement for an automatic sprinkler system hinges on adequate water supply and pressure.
The gross square footage calculation includes the total area of all floors, basements, sub-basements, and additions.

Exemptions

Agricultural buildings are exempt from the requirements of Section 26G.
Automatic sprinklers are not required in areas of a telephone central office equipment building that are protected by an automatic fire alarm system.

Open-Air Parking Structures

Open-air parking structures can avoid sprinkler requirements if at least 25% of the total wall area is open to the atmosphere.
At least two sides of the structure must be open to qualify for exemption.

Enforcement and Appeals

The head of the fire department is responsible for enforcing the provisions of Section 26G.
An aggrieved party can appeal the fire department's interpretation within 45 days to the automatic sprinkler appeals board.

Special Considerations

The automatic sprinkler appeals board may grant a reasonable waiver or an alternative sprinkler system for buildings of architectural or historical significance.
The provisions do not apply to residential buildings.

Responsibilities and Actions

The head of the fire department plays an enforcement role under Section 26G, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
If water discharge poses a danger during a fire, alternative fire suppressant systems may be authorized instead of sprinklers.

Water Requirements

If there is insufficient water and water pressure, the sprinkler system requirement may be waived.
The gross square footage is measured from the outer walls of the building.

Summary of Important Metrics

Minimum gross square footage for sprinkler requirement: 7,500 square feet.
Percentage of wall area open for parking structure exemptions: 25%.
Number of sides that must be open for exemption: Two sides.
Deadline for appealing fire department decisions: 45 days.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the requirements for automatic sprinkler systems in buildings over 7,500 gross square feet. The quiz includes multiple choice questions focused on regulations and specifications related to fire safety. Evaluate your understanding and readiness for fire prevention standards.