The unique nature and significance of the Smithsonian Institution’s
buildings, collections and operations mandate a higher level of fire protection
and life safety than the minimum standards established by the building and fire
codes. This Design Manual builds upon
current codes, utilizing the latest recommended industry practices and
specialized fire protection engineering experience to establish an appropriate
level of fire protection and life safety for all Smithsonian facilities and the
collections, occupants and operations within.
This Design Manual provides for the life safety of Smithsonian staff and
visitors through measures which control fire growth and ensure adequate means
for egress are available for safe evacuation.
This Design Manual also strives to achieve a level of protection
from fire and products of combustion that is commensurate with the value of the
property and operations being safeguarded.
Special attention is given to the protection of collections against
fire, smoke, gas, as well as the potential deleterious effects of fire
protection systems.
The fire safety solutions outlined in this
Design Manual provide a balanced approach to achieving the stated goals. That is, they rely on a number of fire safety
systems to achieve a total prevention and protection scheme, while taking into
account the need for building functionality and design flexibility. Particular emphasis is on fire safety systems
that are simple, reliable, long-lasting, maintenance-friendly, and cost-effective. While active fire systems are key to the success
of the overall protection scheme, passive measures also play a significant role
by minimizing the impact of a potential fire on occupants, collections, and
facility operations.
This
manual is divided into 8 chapters. The
first six chapters describe common fire protection and life safety requirements
to be applied to all projects. Chapter 7
describes requirements associated with special occupancies, such as collection
storage, laboratories and animal housing facilities. The final chapter and Appendix A describe
exhibit fabrication requirements. This
manual established and mandates the use of SI standard fire protection
specifications, which are listed in Appendix C.
A.
This Fire
Protection Design Manual (Manual) identifies the fire protection and life
safety design criteria for new facility designs, upgrades, and modifications to
existing facilities and spaces.
B.
This Design
Manual provides requirements for protecting all SI occupants and for limiting SI
property loss from fire.
A.
This Design
Manual applies to all designs, upgrades, and modifications to SI-owned, occupied,
leased, or operated facilities.
B.
These
requirements apply to all SI-managed facilities, operations, programs, and
activities.
C.
The Director,
OSHEM, is the “Authority Having Jurisdiction” for the Smithsonian, as defined
and used in the National Fire Codes, and is the designated fire code official
(also referred to as the “Fire Marshal”) as defined and used in the
International Fire Code.
A.
Minimum
Standard: It is SI OSHEM’s position that
building and fire codes establish the minimum standard of performance for
Smithsonian Institution buildings and facilities. The codes address issues of life safety and
property protection; however, they do not adequately address continuity of
operations in the form of protection for the collections.
B.
This Design Manual
establishes the minimum requirements for SI design projects. The SI Design
Manager shall confer with the OSHEM Fire Protection Engineer on the applicable
codes and standards and additional requirements.
C.
The most restrictive
requirement in this Design Manual and applicable codes and standards shall be
followed.
D.
Original Design
Codes: The fire protection related codes and standards in effect when facility
design commences (code of record) remain in effect for the life of the facility
unless a significant hazard that endangers the building occupants or the public
is identified or unless the building is modified. In these cases, the facility is upgraded to
the current requirements of the applicable code or standard. Note:
If the code of record cannot readily be determined, OSHEM shall
stipulate the code to be utilized.
E.
Current Codes:
When upgrades or modifications are made, the current edition of the code
applies to the upgrade or modification.
When substantial upgrades or modifications are made on fire protection
systems, the entire system is upgraded to the current code or standard.
F.
SI standard Fire
Protection Specifications included in Appendix C are to be used in new
projects.
G.
References:
1.
Smithsonian
Institution Directive (SD) 419 and SI Safety Manual.
2.
International
Code Council (ICC) Codes, latest edition:
i.
International Building
ii. International Fire Code (IFC)
iii. International Mechanical Code (IMC)
iv. International Plumbing Code (IPC)
3.
National Fire
Codes, National Fire Protection Association, Latest Version, and their
appendices.
4.
FM Global Loss
Prevention Data Sheets
A.
All fire
protection designs shall use equipment that has been tested and listed or
approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., UL) for its
intended use.
B.
OSHEM may issue
written approval for substitute, equivalent items if no listed or approved item
can be procured because the equipment has never been tested for fire protection
use.
C.
All equipment
components specified in designs shall be compatible with existing equipment and
installed as required by the applicable National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) codes and standards and manufacturer’s recommendations.
D.
System
reliability, longevity, and serviceability shall be included as criteria in
specifying fire protection and life safety system components and in design
decisions.
E.
Written acceptance
tests and/or operating procedures shall be prepared and executed for all new
system installations and/or modifications to verify that the systems perform as
required. Acceptance test procedures
shall be required as a separate submittal from the contractor based on the
specified system performance and the specific equipment installed. Any deficiencies noted during the tests shall
be documented and tracked until resolved or corrected. Operating procedures shall be required as
part of the As-Built documentation submittals.
F.
When
site-specific guides or design specifications exist, they shall be included in
all fire protection design packages as applicable.
A.
ASTM: American
Society for Testing and Materials
B.
FM: FM Global
(formerly Factory Mutual)
C.
ICC:
International Code Council (Refer to 1.3 G for additional abbreviations)
D.
LSC: Life Safety
Code, NFPA 101
E.
MCFL: Maximum
Credible Fire Loss
F.
MPFL: Maximum
Possible Fire Loss
G.
NFPA: National
Fire Protection Association
H.
NRTL: Nationally
Recognized Testing Laboratory
I.
OSHEM: Office of
Safety, Health and Environmental Management
J.
SI: Smithsonian
Institution
K.
UL: Underwriters
Laboratories
A.
Fire Protection -
A broad term that encompasses all aspects of fire and life safety, including
building construction and fixed building fire protection features, fire
suppression and detection systems, fire water systems, emergency process safety
controls, emergency fire fighting operations (fire department), Fire Protection
Engineering (FPE), and fire prevention.
Fire protection is concerned with preventing or minimizing the direct
and indirect consequences of fire on people, property, and programs. By extension, fire protection also includes
aspects of the following perils as they relate to Fire Protection: explosion, natural phenomenon, and smoke and
water damage from fire.
B.
Fire Protection Systems
- Any system designed and installed to detect, control, or extinguish a fire;
to limit fire damage; to alert occupants and/or the fire department that a fire
has occurred; or to otherwise enhance life safety or property protection.
C.
Life Safety
Systems: Any system designed and installed to alert occupants to a fire
condition, provide sufficient capacity and a protected path for egress, provide
structural stability, and provide passive defense against the spread of fire
and its products. These include, but are
not limited to, means of egress components, emergency lighting, exit signage,
fire barriers, and structural fire protection.
D.
Maximum credible fire
loss (MCFL): The damage to property
and/or disruption to operations that would be expected from a fire, assuming
that (1) all installed fire protection systems function as designed; and (2)
the effect of emergency response is omitted except for post-fire actions such
as salvage work, shutting down water systems, and restoring operations.
E.
Maximum possible
fire loss (MPFL): The value of property
(excluding land) and cost of operations disruption within a fire area, unless a
fire hazards analysis demonstrates a lesser (or greater) loss potential. This assumes the failure of both automatic
fire suppression systems and manual fire fighting efforts.
F.
Redundant fire
protection: Fire protection measures
implemented to mitigate the effects of fires or related perils in the event of
a partial or total failure of the primary fire protection measures (e.g., two
independent fire suppression systems to protect a high risk facility).
G.
Performance-Based
Design: An engineering approach to design elements of a building based on agreed-upon
performance goals and objectives, engineering analysis and quantitative
assessment of alternatives against the design goals and objectives using
accepted engineering tools, methodologies and performance criteria.
A.
A fire protection
design analysis is required for all designs and must address the fire
protection requirements of the project as required by this Design Manual. Summarize the fire protection design analysis
and submit it with the Concept submission.
The fire protection design analysis shall be separate from other
disciplines. Where applicable, discuss
the following minimum fire protection provisions (include required vs.
provided):
1.
Building code
analysis (i.e., type of construction, height and area limitations, and building
separation or exposure protection)
2.
Classification of
occupancy,
3.
Requirements for
fire-rated walls, fire-rated doors, fire dampers with their fire-resistive
ratings, smoke compartmentation, smoke barriers
4.
Means of egress
in accordance with NFPA 101, Life Safety Code (occupant loads, exit capacities,
etc.)
5.
Analysis of
automatic sprinkler systems and other suppression systems and protected areas,
including hydraulic analysis of required water demand,
6.
Water supplies,
water distribution, location of fire hydrants,
7.
Smoke control
methods and smoke control systems,
8.
Fire alarm system
(the type of alarm system and location of the fire alarm equipment),
9.
Fire detection
system (the type of detection system and location of detectors),
10.
Standpipe systems
and fire extinguishers,
11.
Interior finish
ratings,
12.
Connection to and
description of fire alarm supervising system.
13.
Identify the
various occupancies and hazardous areas associated with the facility,
14.
Coordination with
security and antiterrorism requirements,
15.
Fire Department
access.
A.
All new projects,
renovations, modifications, including associated scopes of work, shall be
submitted to OSHEM for review and approval.
A.
Seismic design
for buildings and systems shall be in accordance with the IBC.
B.
Fire protection
systems shall be designed and installed to withstand seismic events in
accordance with the applicable NFPA standards, except as required by other
criteria for safety class equipment.
A.
All SI buildings
and facilities shall comply with the requirements in SD 215, Accessibility For
People With Disabilities, established by the SI Accessibility Office.
A.
Coordinate with
the facility prior to and concurrent with design.
B.
Separate all
occupied areas from demolition, renovation, or construction activities by
temporary smoke-tight construction partitions of gypsum board or other approved
non-combustible or limited-combustible material in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 241. Barrier design
shall be detailed in project documents.
C.
Partitions shall
be full height, extending through suspended ceilings to the floor slab or roof
deck above and shall be one-hour fire rated, unless sprinklers are installed
and are operational on both sides of the temporary partition whereupon the
partition may be permitted to terminate at the ceiling in accordance with NFPA
241.
Note: This requirement is due to the inherently
greater potential for fire or hazardous materials incidents associated with the
combustibles and operations of demolition/ construction. This risk is made worse by the likelihood of
compromised fire protection systems and fire/smoke resistant construction. This
does not obviate the need to provide other protective measures to contain dust
and debris as specified under other SI requirements.
D.
Sprinklers are
considered to be operational when they are installed in accordance with NFPA 13
(spacing, protection, distance from the ceiling, etc.) and there is a
sufficient automatic water supply.
E.
Phase
construction as necessary to ensure that exits are not obstructed or reduced in
width. If exits must be obstructed during construction, provide alternate exit
routes during each phase of construction and identify the alternate routes on
the construction drawings.
F.
Minimize or avoid
disruptions to fire alarm and sprinkler systems. Delineate phasing of construction to ensure
that installations of new systems are expedited, and where possible, maintain
existing systems in service until the replacement system is operational. If fire protection systems are to be
disrupted, follow the SI fire system impairment procedures to ensure procedures
are incorporated to maintain equivalent levels of fire protection and provide
formal notification to the facility while systems are down via the fire
protection system impairment process (See SI Safety Manual, Chapter 36).
G.
Contractors shall
furnish their own fire extinguishers when an area is vacated for
renovations. SI-owned fire extinguishers
shall be removed from the vacated area and returned (or replaced with new)
prior to re-occupation by SI
H.
Hot work
operations involving open flames or smoke producing processes shall be
conducted in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 14, “Hotwork
Management and Permit System”, of the SI Safety Manual.
A.
It is permissible
and usually necessary/desirable that performance-based fire safety design
methods be applied to the renovation, restoration, remodeling or modernization
of existing facilities to address the evaluation of a subsystem, system, or
complete building when it is not possible to meet the provided prescriptive
requirements for new construction.
B.
Performance-based
fire safety design methods must not be used to eliminate the retained
prescriptive requirements as described in the Performance-Based chapter of NFPA
101.
C.
Performance-based
approaches to meeting the goals and objectives outlined in NFPA 909, Code for the Protection of Cultural Resource
Properties – Museums, Libraries, and Places of Worship shall be permitted
subject to the approval of OSHEM.
D.
Performance-based
approaches to meeting the goals and objectives outlined in NFPA 150, Standard for Fire Protection and Life Safety
for Animal Housing Facilities shall be permitted subject to the approval of
OSHEM.
E.
All
performance-based design approaches shall be in accordance with the guidelines
delineated in NFPA 909 or NFPA 150, as applicable, and shall follow the Society
of Fire Protection Engineers Guide to Performance-Based Fire Protection.
F.
Required design
fire scenarios, performance criteria for acceptance, and input parameters for
fire models used in the performance-based analysis shall be approved in advance
by OSHEM, SI curatorial staff, and other stakeholders.
A.
New structures
shall be constructed from noncombustible or fire resistive construction, Type I
or II as defined in the IBC, unless otherwise approved by OSHEM.
B.
For non-separated
mixed-use buildings the construction type shall be the most restrictive type
based on the use groups and building height and area in accordance with the
IBC.
C.
Alterations,
renovations, and additions to existing buildings shall match the existing
building construction type, unless the height and area limitations of the IBC
would be exceeded. In such case, the
building separation requirements of the IBC shall be followed.
D.
Wood used for
walls, platforms, blocking, furring, and similar applications shall be fire
retardant, pressure impregnated. Fire
retardant coatings of intumescent paint or other fire retardant chemicals are
not acceptable in lieu of fire retardant treatment.
A.
Use groups and
occupancies shall be in accordance with the IBC.
B.
The Life Safety
Code chapters that correspond to the IBC use group shall be used to determine
means of egress requirements and other special occupancy requirements.
A.
Height and area
limitations of new buildings shall be in accordance with the IBC.
B.
Where existing
buildings undergo additions, the combined area of the existing building and the
new addition shall comply with the limits established in the IBC. Where the area of the addition would cause
the building to exceed the height and/or area limits of the IBC, fire walls
and/or fire barriers are required, as determined by the IBC.
A.
Provide access
for emergency vehicles to SI buildings and additions in accordance with NFPA 1.
B.
Design roads,
fire lanes, and turn-arounds for the weight and turning radius of fire
apparatus. Consult local fire department for fire apparatus requirements. At minimum, one of the long sides of every
building shall be accessible to fire department equipment.
C.
Building
separation and requirements for rated exterior walls and openings for
protection from exposure by adjacent buildings or hazards shall comply with the
IBC.
D.
Urban Wildland
Interface. Clearances from combustible
brush, trees, and other vegetation shall be maintained per the International
Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC).
A.
Fire and smoke barriers
shall comply with the requirements of the IBC, the National Fire Codes, and
this Design Manual.
B.
Fire barriers for
incidental use areas shall be as required by applicable codes and
standards. In each case the most
restrictive requirement among the IBC, National Fire Codes, and this Design Manual
shall be followed. Refer to Appendix B
of this Design Manual for a summary of requirements for some of the more common
spaces.
C.
Comply with the
requirements of NFPA 90A for treatment of HVAC duct penetrations, locations of
smoke dampers, and smoke detector requirements.
D.
HVAC ducts that
penetrate smoke barriers provided to isolate collections storage rooms shall be
equipped with listed combination fire/smoke dampers.
E.
Subject to the
approval of OSHEM, smoke dampers may be omitted in HVAC ducts that penetrate
smoke barriers where the system is designed to perform any of the following
functions:
1.
Function as an
engineered smoke-control system, including the provision of continuous air
movement with the air-handling system
2.
Provide air to other areas of the building
during a fire emergency
3.
Provide pressure
differentials during a fire emergency
A.
Interior finish,
insulation, and decorative
materials shall comply with this Design Manual, Chapter 36, “Fire Protection”,
of the SI Safety Manual, Exhibit Construction Guidelines in Appendix A of this
Design Manual, and applicable NFPA code requirements.
B.
Wall and ceiling
materials, paneling, and acoustical tile shall be Class A or B, unless
otherwise noted, with a maximum flame spread rating of 75 or less, and maximum
smoke developed of 450 as tested in accordance with ASTM E-84. This test must have been performed by a
testing laboratory and certification of the test approved by OSHEM.
C.
Wood used for
platforms, enclosures, cases over 100 cubic feet (or with heat producing
equipment) or for other purposes shall be fire retardant pressure impregnated
lumber and markings clearly visible attesting to its fire retardant
characteristics.
D.
Fire retardant
coatings of intumescent paint or other fire retardant chemicals shall not be
used in lieu of fire retardant pressure impregnated treatment unless approved
by OSHEM.
E.
No more than 6
inches of floor carpet shall be installed so as to run up the wall unless
approved by OSHEM.
F.
All fabrics or
other materials used in curtains, draperies, or other window treatments must be
certified as flame resistant in accordance with the criteria contained in NFPA
701 – Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and
Films and Films.
G.
Decorative
materials including: banners, bunting,
streamers, fabric, paper, cotton batting, artificial and real vegetation; as
well as wall, ceiling, and floor cover for acoustical or other effects shall
meet the requirements of NFPA 101.
H.
Textiles or other
materials treated with a fire retardant shall be re-treated as per the recommended
frequency by the treatment manufacturer.
The building manager shall maintain a record of the date and type of
treatment for as long as the material is in use.
I.
Artificial rocks,
faux environments, and similar construction shall be fabricated of
noncombustible materials to the greatest extent possible. Gypsum, glass fiber, metal lath and other
noncombustible materials shall be used in lieu of foamed plastics and other
combustibles.
J.
Cellular or
foamed plastics, expanded plastics, etc. shall not be used in SI facilities
unless they comply with the fire test criteria and limits on quantities in the
IBC and in NFPA 101. Data on all such
materials shall be submitted to OSHEM for review and approval.
K.
Theater and bench
seating materials shall comply with California Test CA-33.
A.
Use roof
coverings approved and listed by a NRTL.
The UL Roofing Materials and Systems Directory lists three Classes (A,
B, and C) of acceptable roof coverings based on compliance with UL 790, Tests for Fire Resistance of Roof Covering
Materials and NFPA 256, Fire Tests of Roof Coverings.
B.
Roof deck
assemblies must be FM Class I approved, or UL listed as Fire Classified or
equal listing or classification by an NRTL.
1.
Exception 1: Fully sprinklered buildings.
2.
Exception 2: Buildings less than 8,000 ft2 (744 m2 ).
A.
Use thermal and
acoustical insulation with a flame spread (FS) rating not higher than 75, and a
smoke developed (SD) rating not higher than 150 when tested in accordance with
ASTM E84 (NFPA 255), Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials.
B.
Application of
cellular plastic insulation to building exteriors shall be in accordance with
the requirements of the current Canadian Building Code. Cellular plastics shall not be used for
interior insulation.
A.
Smoke control
systems shall be installed where required by applicable NFPA Codes and
Standards.
B.
All smoke control
systems shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 92A or NFPA 92B, as
applicable.
A.
Means of egress
design shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 101.
A.
Unobstructed and
adequately marked means of egress shall be provided to ensure safe emergency evacuation.
B.
Security measures
or incidental building activities shall not impede exit doors, passageways, or
any other part of a means of egress.
C.
Delayed egress
doors may be used subject to OSHEM approval.
D.
Utilities such
as, but not limited to, wiring, computer (IT) cables, piping, ducts and other systems shall not penetrate
through exit enclosures (stairwells and horizontal exits), unless serving only
the exit enclosure.
E.
Exit doors shall
be arranged so they can be readily opened from the egress side whenever the
building is occupied. Locks, if
provided, shall not require the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge or effort for operation from the inside of the
building, unless permitted by NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code.
A.
The minimum unobstructed
exit access width for aisles or corridors serving as the primary exit shall not
be less than 44 inches (1118 mm), and,
where deemed necessary by OSHEM, not less than 60 inches (1524 mm) in
galleries.
B.
Where special
occupancies warrant a larger means of egress width, those requirements shall be
followed.
A.
Emergency
lighting illumination levels shall meet the requirements of the Life Safety
Code. Locations requiring emergency
lighting include the following:
1.
All galleries.
2.
All means of
egress.
3.
Switchgear,
mechanical equipment, emergency equipment and transformer rooms.
4.
Security control
rooms.
5.
Emergency command
centers.
6.
Exit discharge at
least 10 feet away from the building.
A.
Mark means of
egress in accordance with NFPA 101. Internally illuminated signs must be light
emitting diode (LED) type, electroluminescence (LEC), or cold cathode
type. Incandescent fixtures are not
permitted except existing fixtures, which may remain in use.
B.
Where deemed
necessary by OSHEM, approved floor proximity exit signs and egress path marking
shall be provided.
C.
Radioluminous
exit signs shall not be used without prior approval by OSHEM.
D.
Photoluminescent
exit signs and egress path marking is permitted only where provided with a
reliable external illumination (charging) source providing a minimum
illumination of 54 lux (5 foot-candles) of unfiltered fluorescent light.
A.
All accessible
means of egress shall comply with the IBC and Life Safety Code.
A.
Private water
distribution systems and water supplies such as found at Fred L. Whipple
Observatory, STRI, Silver Hill Facilities, and SERC shall be installed in
accordance with NFPA 20 – Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for
Fire Protection, NFPA 22 – Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire
Protection, and NFPA 24 – Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service
Mains and Their Appurtenances.
A.
The water supply
for fire protection shall have a minimum supply duration of 2-hours. New primary distribution mains shall in no
case be smaller than 12 inches (300 mm), building/facility loops shall be
8 inches (200 mm) or larger, and fixed suppression feeds shall, in no case, be
smaller than 6 inches (150 mm).
A.
Fire protection
water supply distribution systems for all new installations shall be looped to
provide two-way flow, with sectional valves arranged to provide alternate water
flow paths to any point in the system.
B.
A single feed is
allowed, provided the system is reviewed and approved by OSHEM.
A.
Facilities having
an MPFL in excess of $50 million shall have two independent sources of fire
protection water.
A.
Fire hydrants
shall be UL listed, FM approved, or listed or classified by an NRTL and must
have two 2-1/2-inch (65 mm) hose outlets and one 4-1/2-inch (115 mm) suction
connection with national standard fire hose threads in accordance with NFPA 24
and NFPA 1963, Fire Hose Connections. Hydrant connections shall meet the
standards of the local municipal water authority/fire department.
B.
Wet-barrel or
California-type hydrants are preferable in areas where there is no danger of
freezing. Dry barrel or traffic-type hydrants must be used in areas where there
is a danger of freezing. Hydrants must
be aboveground type.
C.
Hydrants must be
installed adjacent to paved areas, accessible to fire department
apparatus. Hydrants must not be closer
than 3 feet (1 m) nor farther than 7 ft (2.1 m) from the roadway shoulder or
curb line. Hydrants must be installed
with not less than 6-inch (65 mm) connection to the supply main, and valved at
the connection. Barrels must be long
enough to permit at least 18-inch (450 mm) clearance between the center of the
4-1/2-inch (115 mm) suction connection and grade. The ground must be graded so that any surface
drainage is away from the hydrant.
D.
Installation must
be in accordance with NFPA 24. Suction
connection should be perpendicular to the street to allow straight lined
connection to the pumper.
E.
A sufficient
number of hydrants must be provided so that hose stream demand can be met
without taking more than 1,250 gpm (4,740 L/min ) from any single hydrant. Hydrants must also be spaced in accordance
with the following requirements:
1.
All parts of the
building exterior must be within 350 ft (106 m) of a hydrant with consideration
given to accessibility and obstructions.
Hydrants must be located with consideration given to emergency vehicle
access.
2.
At least one
hydrant must be located within 150 ft (45 m) of the fire department connection.
3.
Hydrants
protecting storage facilities are to be spaced a maximum of 300 ft (91 m)
apart.
4.
Hydrants located
adjacent to parking areas or other vehicle traffic areas, must be protected by
bollards. The bollards must be located
so they are not directly in front of an outlet.
A.
Design of new,
and modifications to existing building, exhibits, and facilities shall be in
accordance with the requirements of this Design Manual and the master
specification Appendixes to this Design Manual, which describe specific fire
protection design criteria. Design is to
incorporate redundant fire protection concepts, employing active fire
protection through automatic fire suppression and detection systems, passive
fire barrier features, and limiting combustible fuel load within the SI
buildings in order to control and minimize potential injury to SI staff and losses
to collections, mission, and infrastructure.
B.
Complete
automatic fire suppression systems are to be provided and installed in
accordance with the applicable International Building Code (IBC) and National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for all projects (regardless of funding sources) where the maximum
credible fire loss (MCFL) without automatic fire suppression would result in
the loss of use of a vital structure or equipment for a period longer than that
considered as acceptable by the program director.
C.
In addition to
the above requirement, fire extinguishing systems shall be provided where
required by the IBC and/or applicable NFPA standards.
D.
When the criteria
above does not apply, automatic fire suppression and/or detection may still be
warranted based on any of the following factors:
1.
Programmatic
importance
2.
Effects on
operations
3.
Cost vs. benefit
4.
Exposure
5.
Future conditions
A.
Fire Sprinkler
System design criteria for SI facilities shall comply with NFPA 13 – Standard
for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, but shall be designed for no less
than Ordinary Hazard Group 2 criteria (0.30
gpm/sf over 1500 sq ft (8.1 mm/min over 139 m² )).
B.
The following
minimum design criteria shall be met:
1.
Hydraulic
calculations must be used for design.
Pipe schedule design will not be accepted.
2.
Reductions in the
hydraulically most remote area allowed in NFPA 13 with the use of quick
response sprinklers are not permitted.
3.
Variation in
discharge from individual sprinkler heads in the hydraulically most remote area
shall be between 100 and 120 percent of the specified density.
4.
The calculated
pipe velocity shall not exceed 20 ft/sec (6.1 m/sec).
5.
Safety margin:
The total demand water flow and pressure must be at least 10% less than the
available water flow and pressure.
6.
Pipe schedule:
Schedule 40 or greater must be used for all sprinkler piping less than 4 inches
(100 mm). Schedule 10, 40, or greater
must be used for sprinkler piping 4 inches (100 mm) and larger.
7.
Dry and preaction
sprinkler systems must use galvanized piping and fittings.
8.
Butterfly valves
may be used only on piping 4 inches (100 mm) and less.
9.
Gate valves must
be OS&Y style.
10.
Use of
restrictive orifices, reducing flanges, unions, and plain-end fittings will not
be permitted.
11.
Branch outlet
mechanical fittings and clamp-type fittings will not be permitted.
C.
Compact (mobile)
shelving shall be protected with automatic sprinkler systems meeting the
requirements of NFPA 909.
D.
See Automatic
Sprinkler Systems, Section 211313 for complete sprinkler specification
criteria.
A.
When required,
standpipe systems must be installed in accordance with NFPA 14, Installation
of Standpipe and Hose Systems.
B.
Residual pressure
requirements may be omitted for buildings under 150 ft (45 m) in height where
fire department apparatus are expected to boost pressure in standpipe systems. Piping
for standpipe systems must be designed by hydraulic calculation to show that
the fire department pumper, connected to a fire department connection, can
deliver the needed flow and pressure at the topmost hose connections.
C.
Class I standpipe
systems must be provided in exit stairways of buildings four stories or more in
height. These systems must not include
hose. 2-1/2” by 1-1/2” (63.5 by 38mm) reducers, with caps, shall be provided at
all fire department valves.
D.
Class I standpipe
systems must also be provided in non-sprinklered facilities where all portions
of the building cannot be reached with 200 feet of fire fighting hose lines
extended from the exterior of the building, regardless of building height. Locate
FD hose connections such that all portions of the building can be reached with
100 ft. (30.5m) of hose plus 30 ft. (9.14m) of hose stream.
E.
Class II and
Class III standpipes are not permitted.
A.
Application
1.
Clean agent fire
extinguishing systems are suitable for protection of certain types of special
occupancies, hazards, and facilities.
Clean agent fire extinguishing systems are not a substitute for required
automatic sprinkler systems.
B.
Design
Requirements
1.
Clean agent fire
extinguishing systems must conform to NFPA 2001, Clean Agent Fire
Extinguishing Systems.
2.
Provide
stand-alone (not dependent upon the building fire alarm system for operation)
control panels that are listed for releasing device service and monitored by
the building fire alarm system.
3.
Careful
consideration must be given to compartment under/over-pressurization during the
discharge of total flooding clean agent systems. Pressure relieving vents, located near the
finished ceiling, may be necessary to regulate rapid pressure changes during
discharge. Comply with the
manufacturer’s recommended procedures relative to enclosure venting.
4.
Provide a
manually activated exhaust system to facilitate the extraction of any remaining
clean agent after the required hold time of the total flooding clean agent
system. The exhaust system can be
integrated into the HVAC system for the enclosure.
A.
All commercial
grease hood and ducts shall meet the requirements of NFPA 96 – Standard for
Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, and
NFPA 17A – Standard for Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems (as appropriate).
B.
Grease ducts
shall be protected by approved products, designed with clearance reduction
methods and installed as fire rated enclosures.
A.
Portable fire
extinguishers are to be provided in SI facilities based on occupancy, length of
travel between extinguishers, and hazard as required per NFPA 10 – Standard for
Portable Fire Extinguishers, and this attachment.
B.
OSHEM shall be
consulted as to the appropriate type of extinguishers for the occupancy.
C.
Clean gas or
water-mist extinguishers rated for Class A:C fires are to be purchased and
placed in any area with collections (i.e. all exhibit areas, collection
storages rooms, conservations labs, etc.) unless waived by OSHEM. Areas with wet collections shall be provided
with fire extinguishers appropriate for alcohol-based flammable liquid fires.
D.
Kitchens using
deep fat fryers or other appliances utilizing combustible liquids shall have
the appropriate size class K fire extinguishers located within 30 ft of such
appliances.
E.
Additional requirements
on the type and sizes of fire extinguisher for special areas are listed in
Chapter 7, Special Occupancy Requirements.
A.
Rooms containing
fire pumps in non-high-rise buildings shall be 2-hour rated or 1-hour rated in
a fully-sprinklered building, per IBC Table 508.2.5.
B.
Rooms containing
fire pumps in high-rise buildings shall be 2-hour rated per IBC Table 508.2.5.
A.
Complete smoke
detection coverage shall be provided throughout SI facilities where early
detection of fire can improve life safety or limit damage to collections and
property (leased or owned) or where required by IBC and/or applicable NFPA
codes.
B.
Omission of smoke
detectors shall be approved by SI OSHEM.
A.
When fire
protection systems are installed in facilities on SI occupied sites, they are
to be compatible with and connected to (where available), the site wide fire
alarm monitoring system.
B.
Fire alarm
installations shall comply with the requirements and recommendations of NFPA
72, project specifications, and SI requirements.
C.
All new fire alarm
systems shall be addressable unless otherwise permitted by OSHEM.
D.
See Section
283111, Addressable Fire Alarm System, for fire alarm specification criteria.
A.
Where multiple
fire alarm control panels are provided they shall be interconnected in a Class
A (Style 6 or 7) network arrangement.
B.
All fire alarm
systems shall be monitored by a Smithsonian Institution Proprietary Supervising
Station.
C.
All fire alarm
circuits shall be installed in conduit (EMT, IMT, or rigid). The use of fire alarm MC cable may be
permitted, subject to the approval of OSHEM.
D.
Signaling
Line, notification appliance, and power circuits shall each be in separate
conduit.
E.
Special fire
alarm requirements are listed in Chapter 7, Chapter 8, and Appendix A.
A.
Separate public
address systems shall be provided for non-emergency communication where
desired/needed. Fire alarm systems shall
not be used to address the public in non-emergency situations.
A.
The storage of
collections and high-value items (including art, artifacts, rare books, archival
materials, specimens stored in alcohol solution, live animal collections, and
objects of historic value) shall be protected by passive and active fire
protection measures. These measures
include the following unless determined otherwise by OSHEM:
1.
Separate from
other areas with minimum 2-hour fire-rated construction. Barriers shall also be
constructed as smoke barriers. Higher
fire ratings may be required depending on the materials stored and hazard
presented, as determined by OSHEM.
2.
Collections
stored in remote facilities or buildings may not require fire-rated
construction, as physical separation from other facilities or areas may serve
as acceptable protection, in lieu of passive features.
3.
The maximum size
of any single collection storage space shall be 30,000 ft2 (2790 m2).
Smaller spaces may be required, depending on the value of collection items
stored.
4.
Store as much of
the collection as possible inside non-combustible (metal) files or cabinets to
provide an additional level of separation and protection between collections
and collateral areas. Coordinate
protection of these items with SI Security requirements.
5.
Protect with
early warning smoke detection
6.
Minimize or
eliminate ignition sources within the collection enclosure
7.
Protect with an automatic
sprinkler system
8.
Protect with
additional fire suppression systems, such as gaseous fire suppression or other
approved active systems when deemed necessary
9.
Protect with
compatible portable fire extinguishers
B.
Items of extreme
value shall be stored in fire-resistive vaults, containers, or safes. Coordinate protection of
these items with SI Security requirements.
C.
Fluid-based,
flammable liquid collections (i.e. “wet collections”) shall be stored in areas
approved by OSHEM and in accordance with SI Safety Manual Chapter 38, “Fire
Prevention” (Storage of Hazardous Materials section).
1.
Storage areas may
include, but are not limited to flammable liquid warehouse areas, flammable
liquid cut-off rooms, flammable liquid storage lockers, and approved flammable
liquid cabinets.
D.
Wet collections
storage spaces less than 500 square feet (46.5 sq m) shall comply with NFPA 30.
E.
Design of wet
collections storage facilities greater than 500 square feet (46.5 sq m) shall
be closely coordinated with SI OSHEM and shall incorporate some or all of the protection
concepts outlined below.
1.
Building Construction:
i.
Separate buildings of Type I (4-hour) reinforced concrete
construction. Building separation with a
4-hour MFL (Maximum Foreseeable Loss) wall. Exception: IBC requirements for
fire separation distance may be followed and may reduce exterior wall fire
resistance ratings subject to OSHEM approval.
ii.
Subdivision of the building into compartments, with each
compartment having two-hour walls.
iii.
Floor-to-floor separation of 4-hours.
iv.
Bulk alcohol storage rooms shall be constructed with 3-hour walls,
a 3-hour ceiling, and explosion-venting panels along the exterior wall.
2.
Fire Protection Systems:
i.
Sprinkler system design density of 0.60 gpm/sq ft (24.5 Lpm/sq m )
over an area of 3,500
sq ft (325 sq m ) in wet collections areas.
ii.
A Class I standpipe system shall be provided.
iii.
Draft curtains shall sub-divide each compartment into smaller
areas to aid in sprinkler response and to minimize the area of sprinkler
activation.
iv.
Provide High temperature quick-response sprinklers.
3.
Spill Containment:
i.
Trench drains shall be located to prevent potential alcohol spills
from flowing into corridors or into adjacent compartments and to provide a
drainage system for fire protection water.
These shall be designed to prevent incidental spills of alcohol from
entering the trench; however, if there is a sprinkler system discharge, the
trench shall accumulate and discharge the water.
ii.
The trench drains shall discharge to the exterior of the building,
either to the storm system, sanitary system, or to grade. Discharge locations
shall be approved by the municipal water/sanitary authority.
4.
Fire Alarm System:
i.
Voice evacuation fire alarm system.
ii.
Fire alarm notification appliances will consist of speakers and
strobe lights.
5.
Special Detection and Control Systems:
i.
Hydrocarbon gas detection systems shall be provided. Design basis for the gas detectors shall be
based on manufacturer’s recommended spacing.
ii.
The hydrocarbon gas detection system shall be interlocked with the
building fire alarm system and the HVAC system to initiate a supervisory alarm
and to initiate a 100% purge sequence for the HVAC system serving the wet
collections area.
iii.
All light fixtures and other electrical equipment in the wet
collections storage rooms shall be Class I, Division 2.
iv.
Electrical receptacles are not permitted in the wet collections storage
area.
6.
Means of Egress
i.
The wet collections storage areas shall be provided with two
remote exit stairs.
ii.
Within wet collections storage rooms, provide 2-hour separations
between individual compartments and the center corridor provide avenues for
horizontal exit to meet a travel distance limit of 75 feet (23 m).
F.
Collection/Artifacts
that may present an explosion or self-ignition hazard (e.g., munitions,
cellulose nitrate film) shall be stored in locations approved by OSHEM. Every attempt should be made to “safe” the
collection or artifact prior to storage, in order to mitigate the potential
hazard. The collection or artifact must
be evaluated by OSHEM and the owner on a case-by-case basis, via
risk-assessment, to determine the stability, general condition, and any adverse
ramifications if the collection/artifact is exposed to fire or other
unfavorable conditions. Storage areas
for the collections may include, but are not limited to:
1.
Magazines
(permanent, portable, and/or fire resistant);
2.
Fire-rated rooms;
3.
Areas with
special provisions, such as explosion venting; or
4.
Remote
buildings/facilities/areas that will not expose major facilities or other
collections if the artifact/collection become unstable.
G.
Collection
storage rooms shall be dedicated for such purpose. Object processing, packing, unpacking, crate
and packaging storage, research performed on objects, conservation of objects,
etc. shall not be conducted in collection storage rooms. Separate spaces shall be incorporated into
the design for these purposes.
H.
Collections
process areas or other rooms where collections will be inventoried, processed,
restored, cleaned, etc. shall be protected with 1-hour fire-rated construction. Barriers shall also be constructed as smoke
barriers. Higher fire ratings may be
required depending on the materials in process and hazard present, as
determined by OSHEM.
I.
Rack and Compact
Shelf Storage
1.
Storage of
combustibles within high storage racks shall comply with NFPA 13 – Standard for
the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, and/or Factory Mutual Global Loss Prevention
Data Sheets.
2.
Aisles between
storage racks (excluding compact storage units and library stacks) shall be a
minimum of 36 inches (1 m) wide .
3.
Storage systems
shall be designed with the intent of keeping stored materials at least 24
inches (610 mm) below sprinkler head deflectors. (Storage may exceed this height where OSHEM
determines that the sprinkler system coverage is not adversely affected.)
4.
Material storage
shall not exceed the capabilities of the fire sprinkler system available.
5.
A minimum 4 inch (100
mm) clear and unobstructed space shall be maintained in transverse and
longitudinal flue spaces in storage racks.
Larger spaces may be required based on the depth of shelves and the
results of a fire hazard analysis. The
method of achieving this required spacing shall be determined as part of the
design, but can include bumpers on manually-operated shelf units or automatic
fire-mode parking features for motorized shelf units.
6.
Sprinkler systems
and shelving design protecting archives and collections stored in compact
storage units (mobile shelving) shall meet the design objectives stated in NFPA
909 – Code for the Protection of Cultural Resources Properties, Museums,
Libraries, and Places of Worship. Designs that are based on successful full-scale
fire tests may be utilized subject to OSHEM review and approval. The design FPE
shall provide for OSHEM review a copy of the fire test report, along with a
summary of the storage configuration and sprinkler system design basis
criteria.
A.
In addition to
compliance with NFPA 75, mission critical IT spaces, research laboratories, and
other operations vital to the SI office’s mission and research shall be
protected by the following active and passive fire protection measures:
1.
2-hour fire rated
enclosures.
2.
Very early
warning smoke detection.
3.
Clean agent fire
suppression system or other approved active system.
4.
Clean agent,
water mist, or CO2 portable fire extinguisher and one water
extinguisher for class A fires.
5.
A sign shall be
located adjacent to each fire extinguisher to plainly indicate the type of fire
for which it is intended.
6.
Dry chemical fire
extinguishers shall not be permitted.
B.
Combustible
storage, such as paper stock, inks, and unused recording media within the
computer room shall be restricted to the minimum necessary for efficient
operations, and shall be stored in closed metal cabinets.
C.
LAN rooms and
similar second tier IT spaces shall be enclosed with 1 hour fire rated
construction, be protected with sprinklers and smoke detection, and kept free
of combustible storage.
D.
Where trash
receptacles are specified as part of the design only non-combustible containers
shall be specified.
A.
Combustible
materials (e.g., lumber, plastic, mounting boards, etc.) shall not be
stockpiled in shop areas, but shall be stored in designated storage areas. These areas shall be separated from adjacent
spaces by 1-hour fire-rated construction and protected with fire suppression systems
designed specifically for the fuel load and storage configuration.
B.
Unsprinklered
storage rooms and sprinklered storage rooms over 100 sq. ft. (9.3 sq m) shall
be enclosed with 1-hour rated fire barriers.
C.
Incidental Use
areas shall be enclosed with rated barriers as required by applicable codes and
standards. In each case the most restrictive
requirement among the IBC, National Fire Codes, and this Design Manual shall be
followed. Refer to Appendix B of this
Design Manual for a summary of requirements for some of the more common spaces.
A.
If located inside
or within 30 feet (10 m) of a building, trash dumpsters shall be placed within
a 2-hour fire-rated room and protected with automatic sprinklers.
A.
High-rise
buildings shall be defined in accordance with the International Building Code,
except that SI buildings with an occupied floor located more than 70 feet (21.3
m) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be considered
a high rise building.
A.
Design of
laboratories shall be in accordance with the requirements of the IBC, NFPA 45
and this Design Manual.
B.
To the extent
that the requirements of the IBC and NFPA 45 converge, both references shall be
followed.
C.
All designs for
laboratory spaces shall follow the lab unit approach as defined in NFPA
45. Where quantities of hazardous
materials stored within lab units can be shown to also comply with the control
area requirements of the IBC, both references shall apply.
D.
Where the
quantities of hazardous materials and/or the number of lab units on a given
level of a building exceed the limitations established in the IBC, the requirements
of NFPA 45 shall govern the design.
E.
In all cases the
sprinkler system requirements of NFPA 45 shall be followed for laboratories.
F.
Limitations on
allowable quantities of corrosives, toxic chemicals, and other hazardous materials, not addressed by NFPA 45 shall
comply with the requirements of the IBC.
A.
Atriums and other
vertical openings shall be in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 101.
A.
The storage and
handling of flammable and combustible liquids shall comply with Chapter 19,
“Chemical Handling and Storage”, of the SI Safety Manual, NFPA 30 Flammable and
Combustible Liquids Code, and the following requirements:
1.
Flammable liquid
storage areas shall be separated from other areas by barriers having a minimum 2-hour
fire rating.
2.
In sprinklered
flammable/combustible liquids storage areas, containment measures for the
anticipated sprinkler system discharge shall be considered, in addition to the
requirements of diking, remote impounding, and other containment measures, as
per Chapter 38, “Fire Prevention”, of the SI Safety Manual.
A.
Marine craft
shall comply with United States Coast Guard regulations and NFPA 302 – Fire
Protection Standard for Pleasure and Commercial Motor Craft.
B.
All boats and
docking areas shall be equipped with portable fire extinguishers. The number and type of extinguishers shall be
as specified in NFPA 302.
C.
Smoke detectors
shall be provided on boats having sleeping quarters.
D.
All
inboard-powered boats with an enclosed engine compartment shall have a fire
suppression system in the engine space.
E.
Water supply for
fire protection in marinas, piers, and boatyards shall be provided in
accordance with the latest editions of NFPA 13 –
Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 14 – Standard for the Installation of Standpipes and Hose Systems,
and NFPA 24 – Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and
Their Appurtenances.
F.
Standpipes shall be provided for piers or
marine docks where the hose lay from the responding fire apparatus is in excess
of 150 feet long per NFPA 303 – Fire
Protection Standard for Marinas and Boatyards, or where deemed necessary by
OSHEM.
A.
All Animal
Housing Facilities shall comply with NFPA 150, Standard on Fire and Life Safety in Animal Housing Facilities.
B.
A Fire Protection/
Life Safety Basis of Design narrative shall be prepared for each renovation and
new construction project that affects animal housing facilities. This narrative shall describe how the fire
and life safety systems comply with NFPA 150.
C.
Means of egress
shall be designed to meet the special requirements of animals and/or equipment
necessary for egress.
D.
All fire
protection designs shall take into consideration the animals’ ability to reach
the equipment, potentially harming the animal or the animal damaging the
equipment.
E.
All fire alarm
systems shall take into account the need for a push-button that silences the
fire alarm notification appliances in the animal areas only, but that activates
a silent red beacon to indicate that the system is still in alarm.
F.
Smoke exhaust
systems shall be performance-based and shall take into consideration toxicity
levels, the temperature, the smoke layer height based on the animal breathing
zone, and the risks of exposure to the animals during a fire condition.
A.
The nature of
Smithsonian Institution (SI) operations
necessitates aggressive fire protection and life safety programs to provide for
the protection of SI employees, visitors, facilities, property, artifacts and
collections in all exhibit construction, improvement and alteration projects.
A.
This document
sets forth the appropriate fire protection and safety requirements for
organizations planning or engaging in exhibit construction, improvement and
alteration projects.
B.
Because of the
broad scope of concern, the Office of Safety, Health and Environmental
Management (OSHEM) should be consulted in the earliest stages of planning, and
development or design for all projects to ensure adequate consideration of all
necessary requirements within the project time constraints.
A.
The Smithsonian
Institution shall ensure that the established fire protection and life safety
requirements outlined in the Smithsonian Safety Manual and this Design Manual
are carried out in the planning and design of all exhibit construction,
improvement, and alteration projects.
A.
The Office of
Safety, Health and Environmental Management (OSHEM) Director is responsible for
directing and implementing fire protection, life safety, and occupational
safety and health functions. OSHEM will provide technical supervision,
assistance, review, and approval during the design process.
A.
The fire and life
safety requirements and standards are set forth in the SI Safety Manual and in
Appendix A of this Design Manual.
B.
This includes
codes and standards cited in this Design Manual including but not limited to:
1.
IBC (International Building
2.
IFC
(International Fire Code)
3.
NFPA 101 (Life
Safety Code)
4.
OSHA Standards
Part 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry
5.
OSHA Standards
Part 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction
INTRODUCTION: In addition to
the requirements in this checklist, the requirements in the Fire Protection and
Life Safety Design Manual shall also be followed.
A.
General Drawing
Comments
1.
Key Plan
a. Show location of the project area in relation to the building
floor plan. The preferred method is to provide a small overview of the building
floor plan with the project area shaded.
2.
Coordination of
Drawings
a. Coordinate all drawings so that all equipment and
structural features are shown in the same position on each drawing.
3.
Plans
a. Show new and existing wall, floor, and ceiling
construction.
b. Label the areas where work is to be accomplished and
identify the occupancy of the areas in close proximity to the project site,
i.e. gallery, office, corridor exit stair, collection storage, etc.
4.
Sections
a. Sections should be properly presented to indicate
location and viewing position.
5.
Show Existing
Conditions
a. Show all existing equipment such as: sprinkler heads,
smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, standpipes/hose cabinets, fire
extinguishers, bells/horns/ speakers, strobe lights, remote indicator lights,
exit signs, emergency lights, air supply and return ducts, fire-rated
partitions, and fire doors; and label as existing.
b. These devices and passive fire protection features are
to be indicated on both the demolition and new work plans. If the equipment is
not shown it will be assumed that it is not present and installation of such
equipment will be added to the project requirements.
6.
Relocation of
Equipment
a. If an existing feature or device is to be relocated,
clearly show old and new positions.
7.
Protection of
Existing Equipment
a. Include a note to provide protective covers for fire
detection and suppression devices during construction and painting operations.
The note should also instruct workmen to remove the protective covers at the
end of each workday.
8.
Special
Operations and Hazardous Materials
a. Indicate in the drawing notes any special operations
to be performed or hazardous materials to be used in the work area or nearby
spaces. Examples include: electrical hazards, use of flammable or toxic
materials, special cleaning operations, etc.
9.
Exhibited Objects
a. Drawings must include adequate information about the
objects on display to assess their impact on the level of fire protection and
life safety. Plans are to include the
dimensions, exact location and type of materials used to construct large
objects not enclosed within vitrines.
B.
Exits
1.
Exit Details
a. All public galleries shall have a minimum of two
exits, arranged to be remote from one another. Ensure the clear width along all
points on the primary egress path is a minimum of 5 feet (1524 mm), and along
all secondary egress paths is 44 inches (1117 mm). In certain situations greater clear width may
be required by NFPA 101 and OSHEM.
Provide exit details such as location, paths of access/egress, door
swing, and width of passageways and doors.
2.
Exit Signs
a. Location
i.
Exits shall be
properly identified by exit signs. Exit signs shall be listed or approved,
readily visible and of a distinctive color which contrasts with the surrounding
decor.
ii.
No display,
object or brightly-illuminated signs shall be placed in the line of vision to
distract attention from the exit signs.
b. Lettering
i.
Each exit sign
shall have the word, "EXIT" in plain, legible letters not less than 6
inches (150mm) high, with the principal stroke of letters not less than 3/4
inches (19mm) wide.
ii.
An arrow,
indicating the direction of exit travel, shall be used when the direction is
not readily apparent. Refer to NFPA 101 for other specific requirements.
c. Illumination
i.
Exit signs shall
be illuminated by either an integral light source or an external light source
measuring not less than 5 foot-candles (54 lux).
ii.
Radio-luminous
signs shall be in accordance with ANSI/UL 924 and shall have a minimum
luminance of not less than 5 foot-candles (54 lux).
d. Power Supply
i.
The power shall
be supplied by continuous power source with secondary power from an emergency
generator or integral battery.
3.
Stairs and Steps
a. Fewer Than Three Risers
i.
When fewer than
three risers are used, measures shall be taken to create awareness of the
elevation change. Examples include the
following: special lighting, color
contrast, change in floor surface, or barriers.
b. Width and Height Requirements
i.
Minimum width of
stairs and steps shall be 44 inches (112 cm) and clear of all obstructions
except handrails. Stair and landings shall not decrease in width along the
direction of exit travel.
ii.
Treads shall not
be less than 11 inches (27.9 cm).
iii.
Risers shall not
be less than 4 inches (10.2 cm) nor more than 7 inches (17.8 cm).
iv.
Variations in
width of tread and height of risers shall not exceed 3/16 inch (.5 cm).
c. Landings
i.
Doors may not
open immediately onto stairs without a landing of at least the width of the
door, plus one tread dimension.
d. Headroom
i.
Minimum headroom
shall be 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm) at doors or stairwells
e. Handrail Details
i.
Stairs and ramps
shall have handrails 34 to 38 inches (86 to 96 cm) high measured from the
leading edge of the tread to the top of the rail.
ii.
Additional
handrails that are lower or higher than the main rail are permitted. For areas
where children are the primary users it is recommended that an intermediate
handrail be installed.
iii.
Handrails shall
be installed to provide a clearance of at least 2-1/4 inches (56 mm) from the
wall to which it is attached.
iv.
Handrails shall
offer no obstruction to a smooth handhold surface along the top and both sides
of the rail.
v.
Handrails shall
have a circular cross section with an outside diameter of at least 1-1/4 inches
(3.2 cm) and not greater than 2 inches (5 cm).
vi.
Handrails shall
extend at least 12 inches (30.5 cm) beyond the top and bottom step.
vii. Ends of handrails shall be turned into the supporting
wall, floor or shall terminate at newel posts.
f. Guard Rails
i.
Guard rails shall
be provided at floor openings, open-sided floors, platforms (30 inches (76 cm)
or more above the floor or ground level), ramps, etc. shall be guarded on all
open sides by railings except when there is an entrance to a ramp or stairway.
ii.
Guard rails shall
have a vertical height of 42 inches (107 cm) measured from the upper surface of
the top rail to the floor, platform, or runway.
iii.
Guard rails shall
be capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds (90.7 kg) applied in any
direction at any point at the top of the rail.
g. Platforms
i.
Platforms
protruding into walk spaces present a "strike the ankle" type hazard.
Special lighting, color contrast and padding or 18-inch (45.7 cm) barriers are
recommended.
C.
Fire-Rated
Construction
1.
Penetrations
Through Fire-Rated Construction
a. Penetrations other than fire damper or combination
fire/smoke damper through fire-rated construction (i.e. walls, floors, etc.),
shall be sealed with an approved penetration firestop material that maintains
the fire rating.
2.
Fire Doors
a. Show the hourly rating of new and existing fire doors
and frames. Provide details of new fire door assemblies which show the area of
any glass and construction material.
D.
Materials of
Construction
1.
General
a. Extreme care must be exercised in the selection of
interior finish materials. Some veneers and synthetic J wall, ceiling and floor
coverings are dangerously combustible. Flames spread rapidly over them,
generating large amounts of smoke and toxic products of combustion. The danger
of damage to collections and to the lives of visitors and staff from improperly
selected interior finish materials cannot be overemphasized.
b. All materials of construction shall be noncombustible
or inherently fire retardant. These requirements typically do not apply to
artifacts/collections to be exhibited, unless the object presents an
appreciable fire risk as evaluated by OSHEM.
2.
Testing
a. Testing laboratories, such as Underwriters
Laboratories, test and rate the performance of interior finish materials in
fire tests designed to show how much fuel a material contributes to a fire, how
quickly flame spreads over its surface, and how much smoke it generates.
b. The results of the ASTM E-84 and ASTM E-648 tests are
given as numerical ratings. For ASTM E-84, the lower the flame spread the
better its performance in the test. For ASTM E-648 the higher the critical
radiant flux the better its performance in the test.
3.
Wall and Ceiling
Materials
a. Wall and ceiling materials that are used in exhibit
spaces or the means of egress; such as paneling or acoustical tiles; shall have
a flame spread rating of 25 or less, and a smoke developed index of 450 or
less, as measured in accordance with ASTM E-84, Surface Burning Characteristic
of Building Materials.
b. For exhibit spaces protected by an automatic sprinkler
system, these materials shall have a flame spread rating of 75 or less.
c. Tests to determine flame spread shall have been
performed by a certified testing laboratory.
d. Wall mounted materials which have a surface area
exceeding 10% of the wall area, and single pieces over 100 sq ft (9.3 sq m)
shall comply with the above requirements for wall and ceiling materials.
4.
Wood
a. Wood used for walls, platforms, dioramas, blocking,
furring, cases over 100 cubic feet (2.8 cubic m), light attics with electric
lighting, and similar applications shall
be fire retardant, pressure impregnated. Fire retardant coatings of intumescent
paint are not acceptable in lieu of fire retardant treatment unless
specifically approved by OSHEM Fire Protection Division. This requirement does
not apply to cabinets, showcases or finish trim.
5.
Carpeting
a. Carpeting materials shall have a minimum critical
radiant flux of 0.45 watts/ cm², when tested in accordance with ASTM E-648,
Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using
a Radiant Heat Energy Source.
b. Carpeting shall also pass the Methanamine Pill Test,
Federal Flammability Standard FF-1-70.
c. For installations specifying carpeting on walls the
following criteria shall be used:
i.
The room shall be
protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
ii.
Materials shall
have a Class A rating (flame spread 25 or less and smoke development factor
less than 450), as measured by ASTM E-84.
6.
Draperies,
Bunting or Decorative Textiles
a. All material intended for decorative purposes, such as
draperies, scrim or bunting, shall be certified flame resistant in accordance
with the criteria contained in the current edition of NFPA 701, Standard for
Methods of Fire Tests of Flame- Resistant Textiles and Films. Samples and fire
test data shall be submitted to OSHEM for evaluation and approval.
7.
Plastics, Exposed
foamed plastics, materials containing foamed plastics
a. Plastics, exposed foamed plastics, and materials
containing foamed plastics are prohibited from being used in the exhibit unless
the specific criteria in the Life Safety Code and the IBC for Interior Finish
and Furnishings, Decorations, and Scenery have been met.
b. Samples and fire test data shall be submitted to OSHEM
for evaluation and approval.
c. Vitrines materials shall not be more than 100 sq ft
(9.3 sq m) exposed surface area or shall be in compliance with the interior
finish requirements for walls and ceiling materials.
8.
Glass
a. Glass used in vitrines or displays that exceeds 48
inches (1219 mm) in any dimension shall be safety glass.
E.
Fire Alarm and
Detection Systems
1.
Where Detection
and Fire Alarm Equipment is Required.
a. Fire detectors shall be installed in all areas (unless
otherwise approved by OSHEM) and shall meet the requirements of current edition
of NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code and the manufacturer's design
specifications.
b. When a gallery is closed to install a new exhibit,
opportunity is provided to upgrade or install new detection and alarm systems
with minimal disruption if systems do not already exist.
2.
Manual Fire Alarm
Stations
a. Manual fire alarm stations shall not be obstructed and
shall remain accessible at all times.
3.
Placement of
Bells, Horns, and Speakers
a. Audible devices shall be placed so that they can be
heard above the maximum noise level that normally occurs in the building.
4.
Placement of wall
and ceiling mounted strobes.
a. Visual devices (strobes) shall be installed per NFPA
72, and not obstructed from view by exhibit construction.
5.
Show Existing
Conditions
a. Indicate make and model number, and type of existing
equipment (See A5 above). Ensure devices will not be obstructed by new work.
6.
Relocation or
Extension of Existing Equipment (See A6 above)
a. Determine final location of walls, barriers and
ceilings before placing detection and alarm equipment. New equipment shall be compatible with the existing
system.
7.
Smoke, heat, and
other detectors shall not be field painted.
F.
Automatic
Sprinkler Systems
1.
Provide automatic
sprinklers in all areas unless an exception is allowed by OSHEM.
2.
When a gallery is
closed to install a new exhibit, opportunity is provided to extend or install
new automatic sprinkler systems with minimal disruption if systems do not
already exist.
3.
Show Existing
Conditions
a. Show locations of automatic sprinkler heads (See A5
Above), their height above the floor (if it varies) and their type - pendent,
upright, or sidewall.
4.
Relocation of
Extension of Existing Equipment (See A6 Above)
a. Determine final location of walls, barriers and
ceilings before considering changes to the sprinkler system.
b. If existing equipment must be extended or relocated,
provide a layout showing location and size of existing and proposed
piping.
c. Sprinkler system additions and modifications shall be
per the latest edition of NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation, Maintenance
and Use of Automatic Sprinkler Systems and designed for Ordinary Hazard Group
II Occupancies.
d. Pipe sizes shall be determined by hydraulic
calculation.
5.
Sprinkler heads and
concealed sprinkler plates shall not be field painted. Any sprinkler heads or plates coated with
paint in the field shall be replaced.
G.
Emergency
Lighting
1.
Location
a. Emergency lighting for exhibits, shall be provided for
all locations including means of egress paths, corridors, stairs, and public
and staff areas.
2.
Power
a. The power shall be supplied by a continuous fixed
wiring power source with secondary power from either an emergency generator or
battery pack.
3.
Illumination
a. Lights shall be located to provide an average level of
illumination of 1 foot-candle (10 lux), measured at the floor.
4.
Testing
a. Emergency lighting shall be tested prior to the
opening of each new exhibit.
H.
Portable Fire
Extinguishers
1.
Where Portable
Fire Extinguishers are required, each facility shall provide portable fire
extinguishers for building protection and other hazards being protected.
2.
Water-mist
extinguishers shall be provided in all exhibit halls.
3.
The minimum
classification of extinguishers that are required for building protection is
2A-10BC.
4.
The maximum
travel distance to an extinguisher is 75 feet (22.86 m).
5.
Extinguishers may
be mounted on hangers or brackets, on shelves, or in cabinets. Extinguishers
shall be mounted so that the top is no more than 5 feet (152.4 cm) above the
floor and the bottom is at least 4 inches (10.2 cm) from the floor.
6.
Cabinets may be
recessed to minimize the aesthetic impact and the door may be opaque, In this
case, the cabinet shall be labeled, “FIRE EXTINGUISHER" with minimum
3/4-inch (1.91 cm) letters. At no time shall fire extinguisher cabinets be
locked. Break-glass type cabinets are not permitted.
7.
Extinguisher
cabinets recessed in fire rated walls are to be listed for such purpose.
8.
Extinguishers
shall be readily accessible and not hidden from view.
I.
Electrical
Requirements
1.
All new or
altered electrical work shall be performed by qualified electricians and shall
comply with the current edition of the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code as well
as existing local electrical codes when specified.
2.
All wiring shall
be installed in rigid conduit, EMT or flexible conduit. Aluminum conduit shall
not be imbedded in concrete.
3.
Fixed wiring
methods shall be metal raceways, nonmetallic raceways encased in not less than
two inches of concrete, mineral insulated metal-sheathed cable or Type MC
cable. Type AC cable (commercial EX) shall not be permitted.
4.
All new
receptacles, switches and equipment shall be U.L. listed or equivalent. Where
equivalent items are specified, pertinent features must be listed in the
technical specifications and identified in the Specia1 Conditions of the
Contract.
5.
The number and
placement of receptacles shall be adequate to support the required electrical
loads.
J.
Audio Visua1
Areas
1.
Open Audio/Visual
Areas
a. All shelves shall be constructed of noncombustible
materials.
b. Clearance to any combustible materia1s shall be at
least one foot horizontally, and two feet (61 cm) vertically.
2.
Enclosed Audio
Visual Equipment
a. All shelves shall be constructed of noncombustible
materials.
b. A total power cut-off switch shall be provided on the
exterior of the enclosure and located six feet (1829 mm) above the floor.
c. Smoke Detection
i.
Each projection
enclosure shall be provided with a smoke detector. The unit shall be designed
to disconnect power to the enclosure and sound an alarm at the fire alarm
control panel.
ii.
This requirement
may be waived by OSHEM depending on the projection equipment and size of the
enclosure.
d. Noncombustible Materials
i.
Enclosures shall
be constructed of fire resistant materials subject to the approval of OSHEM.
e. Ventilation
i.
All enclosures
housing projection equipment shall be ventilated mechanically to remove excess
heat, unless the design proves that mechanical ventilation is not required.
f. Rooms housing Audio Visual equipment shall comply with
the following requirements:
i.
Rooms shall be
constructed with 1 hour fire rated construction with 45 minute opening
protectives.
ii.
Rooms shall be
provided with Smoke detectors. Detectors
shall be supplemented with a remote indicator light above the main
entrance/exit door to the room or be displayed/annunciated on the fire alarm
panel as to the exact room location in the building.
iii.
Upon general fire
alarm evacuation, all Audio Visual equipment in the exhibit shall be designed
to cease operation or display an emergency message.
K.
Installation of
Exhibits
1.
Dust Barriers
a. Dust barriers shall be constructed of non-combustible
or fire retardant materials that are classified as Class A or B per ASTM E-84,
or shall pass NFPA 701, as applicable.
2.
Access to
Equipment
a. Do not obstruct or interfere with fire protection
equipment.
3.
Exits shall be
unobstructed and adequate in number and size for quick evacuation.
Consideration shall be given to the orderly circulation of visitors and
avoiding cul-de-sacs.
L.
Final Acceptance
and Approval
1.
Upon completion
of each project, but prior to beneficial occupancy, COTR or person responsible
for the exhibit construction shall contact OSHEM to conduct a final occupancy
inspection/walkthrough of the space, noting any deficiencies or problems.
2.
Prior to occupancy
an emergency lighting test must be conducted to verify it is operating in
compliance with the requirements of the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and NFPA
110.
3.
As OSHEM
determines that the project appears satisfactory, they would note the status,
in writing, to the COTR or responsible party.
4.
Once all
inspections have been conducted, the project would be deemed complete and the
space ready for occupancy.
APPENDIX B -
SUMMARY OF ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMON USE AREAS
|
Area
|
Minimum Fire Barrier Requirements (1)
|
|
Incinerator rooms and trash
storage rooms
|
2-hour (2)
|
|
Paint shops
|
2-hour
|
|
Laundry rooms over 100 sq ft
|
1-hour
|
|
Incidental storage rooms over
100 sq ft
|
1-hour
|
|
Collections storage rooms
|
2-hour rated fire/smoke
barriers
|
|
Wet collections spaces <
500 sq ft
|
Per NFPA 30
|
|
Wet collections space ≥ 500
sq ft
|
4-hour
|
|
Bulk alcohol storage for wet
collections
|
3-hour
|
|
Stationary lead-acid battery
systems having a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons used for facility
standby power, emergency-power or uninterrupted power
|
1-hour in Group B, F, M, S
and U occupancies.
2-hour in Group A, E, I and R
occupancies
|
|
Electric closets
|
1-hour
|
|
Mechanical rooms
|
1-hour
|
|
Electrical switchgear and/or
transformer rooms and generator rooms
|
1-hour or 2-hour depending
upon size
3-hour for transformer vaults
|
|
Telephone/ communication
closets
|
1-hour
|
|
IT spaces/closets
(non-mission critical)
|
1-hour
|
|
IT spaces (mission critical)
|
2-hour
|
|
Maintenance shops
|
1-hour
|
|
Loading Docks
|
2-hour (over 100 sq ft used
for movement of combustible materials)
|
|
Main Kitchen
|
1-hour
|
|
Fire Pump Room
|
2-hour
|
|
Refrigerant machinery rooms
|
1-hour
|
Notes:
1.
This table is not
intended to be comprehensive. The Design
Engineer/Architect is required to confirm these ratings and other special
requirements based on the applicable codes and standards.
2.
The requirements
listed here are for fire resistance ratings.
Automatic sprinklers or other type of fire suppression system will be
required in accordance with Chapters 5 and 7 of this Design Manual..
SECTION 078100 SPRAYED FIRE-RESISTANT MATERIALS
SECTION 078413 PENETRATION FIRESTOPPING
SECTION 081173 ROLLING FIRE DOORS
SECTION 104400 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, CABINETS, AND
ACCESSORIES
SECTION 211313 WET PIPE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
SECTION 211316 DRY PIPE AND PREACTION SPRINKLER SYSTEM
SECTION 213110 FIRE PUMP SYSTEM
SECTION 283111 ADDRESSABLE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
SECTION 331615 WATER STORAGE STEEL TANKS
Source: SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION – OFFICE OF
SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
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