Green Village OSHEM Manuel.pdf

Smithsonian Institution Fire Protection and Life Safety Design Manual Office of Safety, Health, and Environmental Management

May 2018 1 Revision 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN OVERVIEW 2

CHAPTER 2 BUILDING FEATURES 9

CHAPTER 3 LIFE SAFETY 13

CHAPTER 4 WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION 15

CHAPTER 5 FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS 17

CHAPTER 6 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS 22

CHAPTER 7 SPECIAL OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS 24

CHAPTER 8 EXHIBIT FABRICATION GUIDE 35

APPENDIX A - FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY CHECKLIST FOR EXHIBIT CONSTRUCTION 51

APPENDIX B - GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS 57

APPENDIX C – FIRE PROTECTION COMMISSIONING STANDARDS 58

APPENDIX D – SUMMARY OF ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMON USE AREAS 59

APPENDIX E – COMPACT STORAGE UNITS (MOBILE SHELVING) DESIGN SUPPLEMENT… 65

APPENDIX F – GENERAL NOTES FOR EXHIBIT DESIGNS 68

APPENDIX G – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EXHIBITS MATERIALS 70

APPENDIX H – APPROVED/PROHIBITED EXHIBIT MATERIALS (RESERVED) 74

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CHAPTER 1 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN OVERVIEW

1.1 PURPOSE

A. This Fire Protection and Life Safety Design Manual (Design 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 Smithsonian Institution (SI) occupants and for limiting SI property loss from fire.

1.2 SCOPE

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 Smithsonian’s “Authority Having Jurisdiction” for fire protection and life safety matters, 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.

OSHEM serves as the AHJ for all fire protection and life safety matters involving Smithsonian facilities and activities. This design manual consolidates design intent and standards.

1.3 CODES & STANDARDS

A. Minimum Standard: Typical building and fire codes establish the minimum standard of performance for buildings and facilities. The codes focus on issues of life safety and firefighter safety, but do not adequately address continuity of operations, property protection, or protection for collections.

This Design Manual works in concert with the national codes and standards to establish the minimum design requirements for life safety, firefighter safety, continuity of operations, property protection, and the protection of collections for all SI facilities. The SI Design

Manager shall confer with the OSHEM Fire Protection Engineer on the applicable codes and standards and any additional requirements. Where construction is not on Federal property, more restrictive codes may be required by the local jurisdictions (e.g., Metropolitan

Washington Airports Authority, New York City).

B. 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. If the code of record cannot readily be determined, OSHEM shall stipulate the code to be utilized.

C. 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.

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The Smithsonian facilities and museums outlast the typical design lifespan of average buildings. For example, The Smithsonian Institution Building, called “The Castle,” constructed in 1855, continues to serve as the headquarters of the organization. The Arts and Industries Building received $100 million of upgrades in 2009 as part of the TARP initiatives. The National Air and Space Museum is slated to receive upgrades of $900 million over the next 10 years. These significant investments in historic buildings demonstrate the Smithsonian’s dedication to historic preservation. Additional investment in fire protection and life safety features is warranted in buildings with extended life spans and/or housing irreplaceable collections, to avoid functional obsolescence, protect collections and historic structures, and provide operational flexibility.

For Historic Structures (building or other construction designated as having historic, architectural, or cultural significance), maintenance of the historic fabric – the materials, features, and finishes that existed during the most architecturally or historically significant period – may be at odds with current codes. In these situations, the goal is to maintain the buildings, their unique characteristics, and their fabric; protect housed collections; and provide for continuity of operations by providing reasonable levels of protection. NFPA 909, Protection of Cultural Resource Properties – Museums, Libraries, and Places of

Worship, provides additional guidance on this topic and shall be used in establishing and documenting the appropriate levels of protection. .

D. Specific Guidance: When site-specific guidelines or design specifications exist, they shall be included in all fire protection design packages as applicable. These guidelines can be found throughout the Design Manual.

E. Specifications: SI standard Fire Protection Specifications included in Appendix B are to be used for all projects.

F. References: The following Codes and Standards form the basis for this Design Manual.

1. Smithsonian Institution Directive (SD) 419, Smithsonian Institution Safety and Health Program, and SI Safety Manual.

2. National Fire Codes and Standards, National Fire Protection Association, Latest Version, and their Annexes.

3. International Code Council (ICC) Codes, latest edition:

i. International Building Code (IBC)

ii. International Fire Code (IFC)

iii. International Mechanical Code (IMC)

iv. International Plumbing Code (IPC)

4. FM Global Loss Prevention Data Sheets

SI design requirements identified in this section apply to all Smithsonian projects. For projects located on non-federal property, other jurisdictions may impose more stringent codes. The OSHEM

Fire Protection Division will work with these AHJ’s to clarify and consolidate construction requirements, and resolve conflicting standards.

SI utilizes NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, as the standard for life safety in our facilities and utilizes the

International Building Code as its building code. There are inconsistencies between these two documents, but they are generally manageable. For example, International Building Code permits

May 2018 4 Revision 1 handrails with a much smaller rounding radius than those allowed by the Life Safety Code. Where the requirements of these two standards conflict, the requirements of NFPA 101 will be followed for all matters concerning life safety.

G. Conflicts: Where conflicts arise between codes and standards, the most stringent requirements shall apply, unless otherwise directed by the OSHEM.

1.4 EQUIPMENT

A. Listing: All fire protection designs shall use equipment that has been tested and listed or approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., UL, FM) for its intended use.

B. Compatibility: 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.

C. Durability: System reliability, longevity, and serviceability shall be included as criteria in specifying fire protection and life safety system components and in design decisions.

D. Testing: 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.

1.5 ABBREVIATIONS

A. ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials

B. FM: FM Global (formerly Factory Mutual)

C. ICC: International Code Council (Refer to 1.3 F 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

1.6 DEFINITIONS

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 firefighting 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

May 2018 5 Revision 1 protection also includes aspects of the following perils: explosion, natural phenomenon, and smoke and water damage from fire, suppression activities, or accidental discharge.

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 or active 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 firefighting efforts.

F. Occupant: Any person who resides or is present in an SI owned, operated, or leased facility, or who participates in a SI activity.

G. 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).

H. Performance-Based Design: An engineering approach to fire protection design based on

(1) established fire safety goals and objectives; (2) deterministic and probabilistic analysis of fire scenarios; and (3) quantitative assessment of design alternatives against fire safety goals and objectives, accepted engineering tools, methodologies and performance criteria. [See

SFPE Engineering Guide to Performance-Based Fire Protection, 2007.

1.7 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN ANALYSIS

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. A summary of the fire protection design analysis shall be provided with the Concept submission. The fire protection design analysis shall be separate from other disciplines. Where applicable, the design analysis shall discuss the following minimum fire protection provisions (including a discussion of prescriptive requirements vs. protection provided):

5. Building code analysis (i.e., type of construction, height and area limitations, and building separation or exposure protection).fire protection design analu

6. Classification of occupancy.

7. Requirements for fire-rated walls, fire-rated door assemblies, fire dampers with their fire-resistive ratings, smoke compartmentation, smoke barriers.

8. Means of egress in accordance with NFPA 101, Life Safety Code (occupant loads, exit capacities, etc.).

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9. Analysis of automatic sprinkler systems and other suppression systems and protected areas, including hydraulic analysis of required water demand.

10. Water supplies, water distribution, location of fire hydrants.

11. Smoke control methods and smoke control systems.

12. Fire alarm/mass notification systems (the type of system and location of equipment).

13. Fire detection system (the type of detection system and location of detectors).

14. Standpipe systems and fire extinguishers.

15. Interior finish ratings.

16. Connection to and description of fire alarm supervising system.

17. Occupancies and hazardous areas associated with the facility.

18. Coordination with security and antiterrorism requirements.

19. Fire Department access.

20. Unique requirements applicable to the project or facility (e.g. animal housing facilities).

Fire protection design analysis determines if the significant fire protection features for proposed buildings and modifications are addressed at the early stages of the project, minimizing the potential impact of fire protection changes. When addressed early, these features can often be included in an efficient and cost-effective manner, and code permitted offsets can be maximized.

1.8 PLAN REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. All new projects, renovations, modifications, including associated scopes of work, shall be submitted to OSHEM for review and approval.

1.9 FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

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, Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations. Barrier design shall be detailed in project documents.

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.

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 heightened by the likelihood of compromised fire protection systems and fire/smoke resistant barriers. This does not obviate the need to provide other protective measures to contain dust and debris as specified under other SI requirements.

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C. Sprinklers are considered to be operational when they are installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems (including spacing, protection, distance from the ceiling, and adequate automatic water supply).

D. 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.

The impact of construction on nearby occupied areas must be evaluated to ensure adequate egress is maintained for occupants in these spaces. Temporary egress paths may need to be provided. Where adequate egress cannot be maintained, it may be necessary to temporarily close areas adjacent to the construction.

E. Minimize or avoid disruptions to fire alarm and sprinkler system service. 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 impaired, follow the SI Fire System Impairment Permit to ensure procedures are implemented. 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, “Fire Protection”).

Impairment of fire systems during modifications and construction activities can subject Smithsonian facilities and occupants to greater risk. Application of these guidelines manages this risk to allow continued operations of the facilities concurrent with construction. Provision of adequate exits and sprinkler protection are especially effective in providing adequate fire protection and life safety.

F. 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.

G. Hot work operations involving open flames or spark-producing processes shall be minimized through use of offsite fabrication or alternate work methods.

Hot work has been a major cause of fires at the Smithsonian Institution since its establishment in

1846. Constant attention to this source of ignition is a strict requirement for all SI work. Modifying projects to avoid or reduce hot work is preferable to conducting such high hazard operations on site.

1.10 PERFORMANCE BASED DESIGN

A. It is permissible, often necessary, and usually 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.

Design approaches shall follow the methodologies established in the Society of Fire

Protection Engineers Guide to Performance-Based Fire Protection or Performance-Based Fire Safety

Design, allowing adequate time and input from all stakeholders.

B. Performance-based approaches to meeting the goals and objectives outlined in NFPA 909, Protection of Cultural Resource Properties – Museums, Libraries, and Places of Worship, or

NFPA 150, Fire Protection and Life Safety for Animal Housing Facilities, shall be permitted, subject to the approval of OSHEM. Performance-based fire safety design methods must not

May 2018 8 Revision 1 be used to eliminate the retained prescriptive requirements as described in the Performance-

Based chapter of NFPA 101, Life Safety Code.

C. 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.

As a leader in fire protection design and construction for museums and historic structures, SI embraces performance based design approaches which meet the intent and requirements of the code.

Such an approach can provide valuable design flexibility for both the construction of new facilities and the renovation of historic buildings.

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CHAPTER 2 BUILDING FEATURES

2.1 TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION

A. New Construction: New structures shall be constructed from fire resistive or noncombustible construction, Type I or II as defined in the IBC, unless otherwise approved by OSHEM.

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.

B. Modifications: 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.

C. Wood materials: Materials used for walls, platforms, blocking, furring, and similar applications shall be noncombustible or fire retardant pressure impregnated wood. Fire retardant coatings of intumescent paint or other surface treatments are not acceptable in lieu of fire retardant pressure impregnation.

Type I or II construction provides the durability, longevity, and fire resistance needed for significant

Smithsonian buildings. This does not apply to minor support structures, sheds, maintenance buildings, and similar facilities.

2.2 USE GROUPS AND OCCUPANCIES

A. Classification for occupancy: Use groups and occupancies shall be in accordance with the

IBC.

B. Classification for egress: 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.

SI utilizes NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, as the standard for life safety in our facilities, and utilizes the

International Building Code as its building code. While the IBC includes life safety requirements, the

Life Safety Code more thoroughly addresses egress and other life safety aspects for the wide range of occupancy types across the Smithsonian. To enable the use of both the IBC and LSC in a consistent and coherent manner, use groups and occupancies are based on a single code, the IBC, and life safety is based on the requirements of the LSC.

2.3 SITE CONSIDERATIONS

A. Emergency Access: Provide access for emergency vehicles to SI buildings and additions in accordance with International Fire Code, including Annex D. 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.

B. Separation: Distance between structures, fire ratings of exterior walls, and the protection of openings from fire exposures, shall comply with the IBC.

C. Urban Wildland Interface: Clearances from combustible brush, trees, and other vegetation shall be maintained per the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC).

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If there are discrepancies between SI and another AHJ, such as the National Park Service or

WMATA, concerning the application of this code, then a wildland hazard assessment shall be completed and submitted to OSHEM for review.

2.4 FIRE AND SMOKE BARRIERS

A. Locations: Fire and smoke barriers shall comply with the requirements of the IBC, the

National Fire Codes, and this Design Manual.

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 D of this Design Manual for a summary of requirements for some of the more common spaces.

B. Dampers: Comply with the requirements of NFPA 90A, Installation of Air-Conditioning and

Ventilating Systems, for treatment of HVAC duct penetrations, locations of smoke dampers, and smoke detector requirements.

HVAC ducts that penetrate smoke barriers provided to isolate collections storage rooms shall be equipped with listed combination fire/smoke dampers, operated by adjacent area smoke detection.

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:

21. Function as an engineered smoke-control system, including the provision of continuous air movement with the air-handling system.

22. Maintain pressure differentials during a fire emergency.

2.5 INTERIOR FINISHES AND DECORATIVE MATERIALS

A. Codes: Interior finish, insulation, and decorative materials shall comply with this Design

Manual, Chapter 36, “Fire Protection”, of the SI Safety Manual, Exhibit Fabrication

Guidelines in Chapter 8 of this Design Manual, and applicable Life Safety Code requirements.

B. Wall and Ceiling Materials: Wall and ceiling materials, paneling, and acoustical tile shall be

Class A or B, unless otherwise noted, with a maximum flame spread index of 75, and maximum smoke developed index of 450, as tested in accordance with ASTM E-84.

23. Exits (interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps and exit passageways) must be Class A (maximum flame spread index of 25, maximum smoke developed index of 450, per ASTM E84).

24. Interior finishes must be Class A in any space where automatic sprinkler protection is not provided.

Class B materials are allowed in areas others than exits where fire sprinklers are provided.

Note on Plastics: For many plastic materials, ASTM E84 does NOT adequately measure fire performance. Use of such materials for interior finish should be avoided. Limited application of these materials as trim or backing for graphics may be allowed on a case-by-case basis.

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C. Wood: Wood used for platforms, enclosures, cases over 100 cubic feet, cases with heat producing equipment, or for other purposes shall be fire retardant pressure impregnated lumber. Markings attesting to its fire retardant characteristics shall remain clearly visible.

D. Coatings: Fire retardant coatings of intumescent paint or other fire retardant chemicals shall not be used in lieu of fire retardant pressure impregnated treatment.

E. Carpet on Vertical Surfaces: No more than 6 inches of carpet shall be installed so as to run up the wall unless it meets the above ASTM E84 criteria for wall and ceiling materials.

F. Fabrics (not applied to solid backing): All fabrics or other materials used in curtains, draperies, or similar treatments, must be certified as flame resistant in accordance with the criteria contained in NFPA 701, Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films.

G. Surface Coverings: 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. Fire Retardant Treatments: 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. Exhibit Staging: 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.

Cellular or foamed plastics, expanded plastics, and similar materials shall not be used in SI facilities unless they comply with the fire test criteria and limits on quantities of the IBC and the Life Safety Code. Data on all such materials shall be submitted to OSHEM for review and approval.

J. Seating: Theater and bench seating materials shall comply with California Technical Bulletin

133, Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for Use in Public Occupancies.

2.6 ROOF COVERINGS AND ROOF DECKS

A. Coverings: 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. Assemblies: Roof deck assemblies must be FM Class I approved, or UL listed as Fire

Classified or equal listing or classification by a NRTL.

Exceptions:

25. Fully sprinklered buildings.

26. Buildings less than 8,000 ft2 (744 m2).

2.7 INSULATION

A. Fire Testing: Use thermal and acoustical insulation with a flame spread index not higher than 25, and a smoke developed index not higher than 450 when tested in accordance with

ASTM E84 (NFPA 255), Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.

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B. Foam Insulation: Use of foam plastic insulation shall meet the requirements of IBC

Chapter 2603, Foam Plastic Insulation, including application of thermal barriers.

Cellular foam plastic insulation shall be permitted only for exterior envelope, mechanical piping, and walk-in cool rooms/freezers, subject to the limitations identified in this Section.

C. Insulation of Utility Systems:

27. Insulation of mechanical systems shall meet the requirements of the International Mechanical Code. All insulating materials, linings and coverings shall have a maximum flame spread index of 25 and a maximum smoke developed index of 50, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84.

28. Cellular foam plastic insulation is limited to mechanical piping and subject to the following additional requirements:

i. These insulation materials must be approved according to FM Approval Standard 4924, Approval Standard for Pipe Insulation. .

ii. Where the insulation thickness and diameter/sectional dimension are further limited according to the listing, these limitations shall be followed.

2.8 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

A. Codes: Smoke control systems shall be installed where required by applicable NFPA Codes and SI standards.

B. Design Requirements: All smoke control systems shall comply with the requirements of

NFPA 92, Smoke-Control Systems.

Performance-Based Design of smoke control systems can result in lower required volumes of air movement and smaller HVAC equipment. This may result in considerable cost savings over prescriptive ventilation requirements and should be considered for larger projects.

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CHAPTER 3 LIFE SAFETY

3.1 STANDARDS

A. Facilities design shall comply with the requirements of the Life Safety code (NFPA 101).

NFPA 101 is utilized in lieu of Chapter 10 of the IBC, which is not applicable to SI projects. This code provides in-depth guidance for various occupancies at the SI.

3.2 BASIC REQUIREMENTS

A. Unobstructed and adequately marked means of egress shall be provided to ensure safe emergency evacuation.

A. Security measures or incidental building activities shall not impede exit doors, passageways, or any other part of a means of egress.

B. Delayed egress door hardware may be used subject to OSHEM review.

C. 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.

D. 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.

3.3 MINIMUM WIDTH

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.

Smithsonian enforces maintaining at least 60 inch exit access width for the primary circulation path through gallery spaces to prevent bottle necking of visitors as they move through exhibits, and to facilitate orderly evacuation during emergencies.

Special circumstances, such as anticipated high volume visitation, may warrant egress widths over 60 inches to permit ease of movement through exhibit spaces.

3.4 EMERGENCY LIGHTING

A. Emergency lighting illumination levels shall meet the requirements of the Life Safety Code.

Locations requiring emergency lighting include the following:

1. All assembly spaces (including galleries, large conference rooms)

2. All means of egress. (exit access, corridor, stairs, route to the public way)

3. Switchgear, mechanical equipment, emergency equipment, fire pump and transformer rooms.

4. Security control rooms.

5. Emergency command centers.

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E. Emergency lighting photometric plans are required during project design.

3.5 EXIT MARKING

A. Mark means of egress in accordance with NFPA 101. All new internally illuminated exit signs must be light emitting diode (LED), electroluminescence (LEC), or cold cathode type.

Incandescent or florescent fixtures are not permitted, except for existing fixtures, which may remain in use.

F. Radioluminous and photoluminescent exit signs shall not be used without prior approval by

OSHEM.

Smithsonian limits the use of radioluminous exit signs which contain tritium gas. These signs have to be tracked by each facility manager and reported to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The primary use of these signs is for temporary exhibitions, where walls are relocated several times a year, and areas with potentially flammable atmospheres.

Where permitted by OSHEM, photoluminescent exit signs and egress path marking may be installed, but must be provided with a reliable, 24 hour external illumination (charging) source of a type approved by the sign manufacturer, having a minimum illumination of 54 lux (5 foot-candles).

Typically, fluorescent, metal halide, mercury–vapor, and blue LED with phosphor lights emit energy that can be absorbed and stored by the photoluminescent pigments used in this type of signage.

G. Where deemed necessary by OSHEM, approved floor proximity exit signs and egress path marking shall be provided.

3.6 OCCUPANT LOAD MANAGEMENT

A. Means for real time monitoring and management of occupant loads in assembly buildings shall be provided to prevent overcrowding.

Where deemed necessary by OSHEM and OPS to prevent overcrowding, automated visitor count systems have been installed and used to track and manage building wide occupant loads.

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CHAPTER 4 WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION

4.1 PRIVATE SYSTEMS

A. Private water distribution systems and water supplies 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.

4.2 SUPPLY DURATION AND MAIN SIZE CRITERIA

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).

Smithsonian enforces at least a 2-hour minimum water supply to sprinkler systems from a reliable/acceptable water source. Total required site wide water supply volumes shall be adequate to meet sprinkler and firefighting needs (flow rates and duration), based on an evaluation of national and local codes. Consult OSHEM prior to conducting such an evaluation.

4.3 DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

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.

This allows for failure or maintenance on the water distribution loop while maintaining an alternate path to ensure a source of water is available at all times to fire protection systems.

B. A single feed may be allowed, provided the system is reviewed and approved by OSHEM.

C. Underground plastic pipe meeting the requirements of NFPA 24 is acceptable.

4.4 INDEPENDENT SOURCES

A. Facilities having a Maximum Possible Fire Loss (MPFL) in excess of $50 million shall have two independent sources of fire protection water.

Water supplies may be compromised during in-house or municipal repair and maintenance operations, placing entire facilities at significant risk. Providing a redundant water source for major facilities ensures fire suppression systems remain active at all times, reducing risk of property loss and business interruption.

4.5 HYDRANTS

A. Fire hydrants shall be UL listed, FM approved, or listed or classified by 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 the aboveground type.

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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 valued 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 line 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 due to hose connections available on each fire truck, unless, a shorter distance is required by the local AHJ.

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.

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CHAPTER 5 FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

5.1 GENERAL

A. Designs of new facilities, as well as modifications to existing Smithsonian owned and leased buildings shall 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 to minimize potential injury to SI staff and losses to collections, mission, and infrastructure.

Specific fire protection design criteria is located within the body of the Design Manual, and in the attached SI master fire protection related specifications

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 structure or equipment for a period longer than that considered 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.

Some of the requirements set forth in this document differ from the minimum NFPA and IBC requirements, which are focused on life safety and fire fighter safety, not property protection or business continuity. These codes also do not specifically address system ease of maintenance, flexibility for future modifications and durability. The SI fire suppression requirements ensure appropriate protection for the Smithsonian’s valuable collections and mission critical operations.

They also ensure systems are designed and installed to provide long term, lower maintenance service and to permit future modifications with least amount of disruption to our buildings.

D. When the criteria above does not apply, automatic fire suppression may still be warranted based on any one of the following factors:

1. Programmatic importance

2. Effects on operations

3. Cost vs. benefit

4. Exposure (e.g. wildland, adjacent buildings or sheds, storage)

5. Future conditions

5.2 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

A. Fire Sprinkler System design criteria for SI facilities shall comply with NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems, but shall be designed for no less than Ordinary Hazard Group 2 criteria (0.2 0 gpm/sf over 1500 sq ft (8.1 mm/min over 139 m² )).

The Smithsonian has many types of occupancies ranging from business to assembly to storage. The facilities are constantly changing out spaces which may impact occupancy classification. The

Ordinary Hazard Group 2 criteria provides a sprinkler system with flexibility for future

May 2018 18 Revision 1 expansion/modification to protect spaces where the use changes (e.g from an office to a storage occupancy).

B. The following minimum design criteria shall be met:

1. Hydraulic calculations must be used for design. Pipe schedule design will not be accepted.

The sprinkler systems are constantly being modified within the Smithsonian due to construction in our spaces. This expansion or modification may change the water pressure and flow rate a system can deliver. Baseline hydraulic calculations assist in determining if an existing system can provide the required protection and, when necessary, the extent of the modifications when there is an occupancy change.

2. Reductions in the hydraulically most remote area allowed in NFPA 13 with the use of quick response sprinklers are not permitted.

The Smithsonian has many types of occupancies ranging from business to assembly to storage. The facilities are constantly changing out spaces which may impact the occupancy classification. By not permitting the reduction to the remote area, systems are designed with greater capacity to accommodate future expansion/modification.

3. Safety margin: The total demand water flow and pressure must be at least 10% less than the available water flow and pressure.

Over time the water supply pressure tends to decrease due to increased public water demands.

Friction losses increase due to pipe corrosion. The safety margin allows for adequate water flow and pressure even though the available water supply and pressure may have decreased over time.

4. 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.

Sprinkler mains are typically routed in open areas whereas branch mains are routed above exhibits/collection areas. Utilizing thicker walled piping (sch. 40) for branch lines reduces the risk of leaks over collections and critical operations.

5. Wet pipe sprinkler systems shall be designed as outlined in the wet pipe system specification 211313.

6. Dry pipe and pre-action sprinkler systems shall be designed as outlined in the dry pipe and pre-action system specification 211316.

7. Gate valves must be OS&Y style on systems with piping greater than 4 inches in diameter.

According to feedback provided by the SI OFMR Life Safety Shop and the SI plumbing shop, OS&Y valves are more reliable and typically installed in large mains where there is room for the stem to move up and down.

8. Butterfly valves may be used only on piping 4 inches (100 mm) and less.

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9. Use of restrictive orifices, reducing flanges, unions, and plain-end fittings will not be permitted. Flanged fittings are permitted.

10. Branch outlet mechanical fittings and clamp-type fittings are not permitted unless approved by OSHEM.

Theses fittings are not as reliable and more prone to catastrophic failure compared to threaded fittings and grooved couplings and grooved fittings. Per the SI Sprinkler Specifications, all pipes less than 4 inches are required to have threaded fittings and pipes 4 inches and larger are permitted to have grooved couplings and fittings since these larger mains are typically not routed over collections/exhibit spaces.

C. Automatic sprinkler systems used to protect special occupancies, such as compact storage units (mobile shelving) and wet collections, shall meet the design requirements of Chapter 7 of this Design Manual.

5.3 STANDPIPE SYSTEMS

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.

Typically, the code requires high-rise buildings to have automatic standpipe systems that provide a residual pressure of 100 psi at the top. This section permits manual standpipes for high-rise buildings. Fire department pumper capabilities can change as years pass and accordingly, the hydraulic calculation associated with these standpipes should be reassessed every 5 years.

C. All standpipe systems shall be Class I. Adapters shall be in accordance with the local fire department.

1. Class I standpipe systems must be provided in exit stairways of buildings four stories or more in height.

2. Class I standpipe systems must also be provided in non-sprinklered facilities where not all portions of the building can be reached with 150 feet of firefighting hose lines extended from the exterior of the building, regardless of building height.

Locate fire 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.

Class II and Class III standpipes are not permitted. A Class II or Class III standpipe permits attachment of occupant hoses to the standpipe riser. Due to the pressures associated with the water flow, an occupant must be trained to use the hose to decrease the risk of injury. The SI does not have trained fire brigades and therefore, does not install occupant hoses for safety reasons.

5.4 CLEAN AGENT EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

A. Application

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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.

Clean agent fire extinguishing agents are designed for mission critical rooms and sensitive collection storage areas where quick detection and suppression are appropriate. This type of system has a rapid response time and usually does not warrant the activation of the automatic sprinkler system.

However, clean agent systems do not provide the same level of reliability as automatic sprinkler systems. Additionally, the fire sprinkler system is designed to protect the structure whereas the clean agent system is designed to protect the equipment and artifacts within a space.

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.

5.5 COOKING EQUIPMENT SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

A. All commercial grease hood, ducts and kitchen suppression systems shall meet the most restrictive requirements of the current editions of NFPA 96 – Standard for Ventilation

Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, NFPA 17A – Standard for

Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems (as appropriate) and the International Mechanical

Code.

B. Grease ducts shall be protected by approved products, designed with clearance reduction methods and installed as fire rated enclosures.

5.6 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

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 section.

B. Clean agent or water-mist extinguishers rated for Class A:C fires are to be provided 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.

Clean agent or water mist extinguishing agents do not leave a residue like other extinguishing agents such as dry chemical. A residue film on collections could damage artifacts.

C. Kitchens using deep fat fryers or other appliances utilizing combustible liquids shall have the appropriate size class K fire extinguishers…