Did You Know? Fire Sprinklers in Open Parking Garages
Open parking structures have been allowed for many years to be unprotected with fire sprinkler systems but with the new risks of electric vehicles, charging stations and large-scale fires seen in recent years that is changing. The US Fire Administration estimates about 650 parking garages fire occur annually each year in the United States, causing an estimated $8 million in property damage and 15 injuries annually.
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Fires and Numbers – NFSA Investigates Structure Fire Trends in the U.S.
The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) blogs are read by a wide range of interests – including contractors, installers, engineers, AHJs, researchers, component manufacturers, and building owners. Across all of those diverse interests and occupations, one thing is common: the numbers. Although many claim to hate math, it is something that most of us use on a daily basis.
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Nobody Likes Change! Addressing High-Piled Storage Changes to NFPA 13
High-piled storage facilities play a vital role in the storage of goods, but also present significant fire hazards if not managed properly. One key aspect of maintaining safety in these facilities is monitoring changes made to commodities and the way they are stored. It’s important for building owners to make proper adjustments not only to the commodities stored but to shelving and fire protection, as changes are made. This practice is essential for reducing fire risks and complying with the regulations of the fire code.
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Did You Know? Clearances – Standpipe Hose Connections
Standpipe hose connections are often hidden in buildings, installed too high/low or behind doors making access in an emergency challenging. While some of the requirements have been in the standard for many years, the 2024 edition of NFPA 14 Standard for the Installation of Standpipes and Hose Systems clarified the need to make these critical connections more visible.
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