“We have a metal building with a gas furnace located above a lay-in ceiling. The local AHJ is telling us that we are required to have sprinklers above the ceiling since there is a gas furnace above the ceiling. Are sprinklers required?” In response to your question we have reviewed NFPA 13, 2010 edition that you indicated as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is that sprinklers are not required.
The commentary in the 2010 edition of NFPA 13 Handbook under Section 8.15.1.3 clarifies the issue by stating, “The intention of 8.15.1.3 is not to require sprinklers in a concealed combustible space that contains mechanical equipment be made of non-combustible materials. Nor, is it the intent to require sprinklers simply because
The commentary in the 2010 edition of NFPA 13 Handbook under Section 8.15.1.3 clarifies the issue by stating, “The intention of 8.15.1.3 is not to require sprinklers in a concealed combustible space that contains mechanical equipment be made of non-combustible materials. Nor, is it the intent to require sprinklers simply because