4.27 Listed Flexible Sprinkler Hose Fittings
Reference: 2022 NFPA 13, Section 17.4.1.3.3 ; San Francisco Dept. of Building Inspection’s Information Sheet S-02
Purpose: To establish requirements for the use of listed flexible sprinkler hose fittings/assemblies and its anchoring components, intended for use in installations connecting the sprinkler piping to sprinkler, that are not specifically addressed in the 2022 NFPA 13.
NOTE: THE ADDITION, REMOVAL, OR RELOCATION OF ANY FIRE SPRINKLER OR SYSTEM COMPONENTS REQUIRES A BUILDING PERMIT. HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS MAY BE REQUIRED.
The use of flexible sprinkler hose fittings are allowed as long as the assembly components are listed and installed in accordance with the requirements of the listing, including the manufacturer's installation instructions. Hydraulic Calculations may be required.
NFPA 13. Compliance with Sections 17.4.1.3.3.1 through 17.4.1.3.3.4 is required:
2022 NFPA 13 Section 17.4.1.3.3.2 : When installed and supported by suspended ceilings, the ceiling shall meet ASTM C635/C635M, Standard Specification for Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panel Ceilings, and shall be installed in accordance with ASTM C636/C636M, Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels.
2022 NFPA 13 Section 17.4.1.3.3.3 : Where flexible sprinkler hose fittings exceed 6 ft (1.8 m) in length and are supported by a suspended ceiling in accordance with 17.4.1.3.3.2, a hanger(s) attached to the structure shall be required to ensure that the maximum unsupported length does not exceed 6 ft (1.8 m).
The suspended ceiling anchoring components shall be attached to the ceiling support with tamper resistant self-tapping zip screws
FOR EXISTING CEILINGS:
1) Submitted plans utilizing listed flexible sprinkler hose fittings installed and supported by existing suspended ceilings shall include a stamped and signed letter from a licensed structural engineer, stating: a) That the specified ceiling meets ASTM C 635 and C 636*
- *NOTE: 3 rd party test inspection is not required if the building inspector can verify to the District Fire Inspector’s satisfaction, that the ceiling does indeed meet ASTM C 635 & ASTM C 636
2) After installation and prior to final inspection, a special inspection report shall be submitted to the department of building inspection in accordance with the 2022 SFBC, Section 1704 to ensure that the suspended ceiling complies with ASTM C 635 and ASTM C 636. A courtesy copy of this report shall be provided to the district fire inspector PRIOR TO SIGN-OFF OF THE SYSTEM.