Primer on fire sprinkler installation for structural engineers

Automatic sprinkler systems are considered to be one of the most important facilities for providing people with safety and protecting a structure and its contents from fire. Even old high-rise buildings are required to upgrade to fire safety provisions by installing sprinklers. In this paper, a comprehensive methodology for the design process of sprinkler systems is presented. Specifically, the paper discusses: (1) the requirement for automatic fire suppression systems according to the building groups, occupant load, or fire area and its location vis ̀ vis the discharge level; (2) the design and installation of automatic sprinklers; and (3) the use and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems. The attempt is to consolidate various principles for sprinkler design and to propose further enhancement on the practical issues related to design by integrating it with other mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, devices, and fixtures. Furthermore, practical recommendations are provided along with a brief discussion on alternative solutions. © 2009 ASCE.