HomeMy WebLinkAboutFPE Report FINAL1
Fire Protection Report for American Converters
(Amcon)
Linda D. French, F PE
American Converters is the Midwest’s premier fabricator of foam for industrial manufacturers
offering a full range of materials including polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, and
neoprenes, in any shape or size an application might require. The existing warehouse is located at
5400 Main Street NE in Fridley, Minnesota as shown in Figures 1 and 2. A Fire Protection Code
Analysis will be completed to determine the storage configuration and the fire protection and life
safety requirements for the existing warehouse facility in accordance with the following:
2020 Minnesota State Building Code (MSBC)
2020 Minnesota State Fire Code (MSFC)
2022 NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems
2018 NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
Building Information
Figure 1. Amcon Level 1 Storage Plan located at 5400 Main Street NE in Fridley, MN
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Figure 2. Warehouse Plan located at 5400 Main Street NE in Fridley, MN
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• Noncombustible Construction
• Total Building Area – 360,058 sqft
• Amcon Warehouse Area – 130,480 sqft
• Building Occupancy Classification – S-1 Storage Warehouse and B Business
• Existing AMCON Space: Top of Steel Height – 17’-10 - Floor to Bottom of Steel Height – 16’-0
• AMCON Expansion Space: Top of Steel Height – 23’-10 - Floor to Bottom of Steel Height – 22’-0
• Fire Protection System – Automatic sprinkler system designed to protect Storage of Class I - IV
Commodities and Group A Plastics on racks without solid shelves up to 15’-0.
• Storage must maintain 36” clear below the sprinkler deflectors.
• Existing Sprinkler system designed for 0.60/2000 sqft with 11.2K 286 degree sprinklers. Maximum
head spacing at 90 sqft.
• Existing Fire Pump Data:
o Electric Fire Pump
1500 GPM 120 PSI
o Diesel Fire Pump
1500 GPM 120 PSI
• From Pump Test:
Static – 145 PSI
Residual – 79 PSI
Flow – 2256 GPM
Code Analysis
2020 Minnesota State Fire Code Chapter 32
High Piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with Chapter 32.
3201.3 Construction documents. At the time of building permit application for new structures
designed to accommodate high-piled storage or for requesting a change of occupancy/ use,
and at the time of application for a storage permit, plans and specifications shall be submitted
for review and approval. In addition to the information required by the International Building
Code, the storage permit submittal shall include the information specified in this section.
Following approval of the plans, a copy of the approved plans shall be maintained on the
premises in an approved location. The plans shall include the following:
1. Floor plan of the building showing locations and dimensions of high-piled storage areas.
2. Usable storage height for each storage area.
3. Number of tiers within each rack, if applicable.
4. Commodity clearance between top of storage and the sprinkler deflector for each storage
arrangement.
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5. Aisle dimensions between each storage array.
6. Maximum pile volume for each storage array.
7. Location and classification of commodities in accordance with Section 3203.
8. Location of commodities which are banded or encapsulated.
9. Location of required fire department access doors.
10. Type of fire suppression and fire detection systems.
11. Location of valves controlling the water supply of ceiling and in-rack sprinklers.
12. Type, location and specifications of smoke removal and curtain board systems.
13. Dimension and location of transverse and longitudinal flue spaces.
14. Additional information regarding required design features, commodities, storage
arrangement and fire protection features within the high-piled storage area shall be provided
at the time of permit, when required by the fire code official.
3201.4 Fire Safety and Evacuation plan. Where required by the Section 403, a fire safety and
evacuation plan shall be submitted at the time of permit application for review and approval.
A copy of the approved fire safety and evacuation plan shall be maintained on the premises in
an approved location.
Section 3203 COMMODITY CLASSIFICATION
3203.1 Classification of commodities. Commodities shall be classified as Class I, II, III, IV or
high hazard in accordance with sections 3203.2 through 3203.10.3. Materials listed within
each commodity classification are assumed to be unmodified for improved combustibility
characteristics. Use of flame-retarding modifiers or the physical form of the material could
change the classification.
The items being stored at this facility and their commodity classification are listed in the
Stored Materials List below. All items being stored in this facility are Class I-IV Commodities
and Group A Exposed Expanded and Unexpanded Plastics stored in piles. Cardboard boxes are
stored on pallets on racks.
Table 1. Stored Materials in high piled storage.
SECTION 3204 DESIGNATION OF HIGH-PILED STORAGE AREAS
3204.1 General. High-piled storage areas, and portions of high-piled storage areas intended
for storage of a different commodity class than adjacent areas, shall be designed and
Item Items to be Stored Location to be stored (on the floor,
shelves, or racks)
Item Packaging (wrapped in plastic,
exposed, in bins, boxes etc.)Commodity Classification
1 Expanded Polyethylene (EPE)Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
2 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
3 Polyethylene (PE)Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
4 Neoprene Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
5 Expanded Polypropylene (EPP)Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
6 Polyurethane (PU)Floor Exposed Group A Plastic Expanded
7 Corrogated Boxes (Flat)Racks Plastic Group A Plastic Expanded
8 Wood Pallets Floor Exposed Idle Wood Pallets
9 Plastic Pallets Floor Exposed Idle Plastic Pallets
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specifically designated to contain Class I, Class II, Class III, Class IV or high-hazard
commodities. The designation of a high-piled combustible storage area, or portion thereof
intended for storage of a different commodity class, shall be based on the highest hazard
commodity class stored except as provided in Section 3204.2.
SECTION 3205 HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE
3205.1 Rack structures. The structural integrity of racks shall be maintained.
3205.2 Ignition sources. Clearance from ignition sources shall be provided in accordance with
Section 305.
3205.3 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited. Approved “No Smoking” signs shall be
conspicuously posted in accordance with Section 310.
3205.4 Aisle maintenance. When restocking is not being conducted, aisles shall be kept clear
of storage, waste material and debris. Fire department access doors, aisles and exit doors
shall not be obstructed. During restocking operations using manual stocking methods, a
minimum unobstructed aisle width of 24 inches shall be maintained in 48-inch or smaller
aisles, and a minimum unobstructed aisle width of one-half of the required aisle width shall
be maintained in aisles greater than 48 inches. During mechanical stocking operations, a
minimum unobstructed aisle width of 44 inches shall be maintained in accordance with
Section 3206.10.
3205.5 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimensions and height limitations shall
comply with Section 3207.3.
3205.6 Designation of storage heights. Where required by the fire code official, a visual
method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height shall be provided.
Figure 3. Sample visual method of indicating maximum allowable storage height.
A visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height shall be provided similar
to that shown in figure 3 at 15’-0 and 20’-0.
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3205.7 Arrays. Arrays shall comply with Section 3207.4.
3205.8 Flue spaces. Flue spaces shall comply with Section 3208.3.
SECTION 3206 GENERAL FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY FEATURES
3206.1 General. Fire-protection and life-safety features for high-piled storage areas shall be in
accordance with Section 3206. Nationally recognized standards or guidelines, as applicable,
are allowed to be used when approved by the fire chief.
3206.2 Type of Protection. Where required by Table 3206.2, fire detection systems, smoke
and heat removal and automatic sprinkler design densities shall be provided to protect the
high-piled storage area.
3206.2.1 Extent and type of protection. Where required by Table 3206.2, fire
detection systems, smoke and heat removal, draft curtains and automatic sprinkler
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design densities shall extend the lesser of 15 feet beyond the high-piled storage area
or to a permanent partition. Where portions of high-piled storage areas have different
fire protection requirements because of commodity, method of storage or storage
height, the fire protection features required by Table 3206.2 within this area shall be
based on the most restrictive design requirements.
3206.3 High-piled storage areas. For the application of Table 3206.2, the size of the high-piled
storage areas shall be determined in accordance with Sections 3206.3.1 through 3206.3.2.1.
3206.3.1 Size of high-piled storage area. The size of each high-piled storage area shall
include the footprint of the actual high-piled storage racks, shelves or piles and the
following aisles:
1. Interior aisles within the footprint of the storage area.
2. An aisle around the perimeter of the footprint with a minimum width as
required in Section 3206.10.1 or the dimension to a wall or full height wall,
whichever is less.
3206.3.2 Multiple high-piled storage areas. Where a building contains multiple high-
piled storage areas, the aggregate of all high-piled storage areas shall be used for the
application of Table 3206.2 unless the high-piled storage areas are separated in
accordance with one of the following:
1. High-piled storage areas separated by fire barriers with a minimum fire-
resistance-rating of 1 hour constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the
International Building Code.
2. In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, high-piled storage areas separated by 100
feet (30 480 mm) or more. The area providing the separation shall not contain
high-piled combustible storage.
3206.3.2.1 Multiple class high-piled storage areas. High-piled storage areas
classified as Class I through IV not separated from high-piled storage areas
classified as high hazard shall utilize the aggregate of all high-piled storage
areas as high hazard for the purposes of the application of Table 3206.2.
Multiple class high-piled storage areas meeting the separation requirements in
Section 3206.3.2 shall be considered as separated. The fire safety features in
Table 3206.2 shall be extended beyond the higher-hazard storage area in
accordance with Section 3206.2.1.
Exception: Multiple class high-piled storage areas do not need to be
separated where in accordance with Section 3204.2.
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The aggregate area of 360,065 sqft has been used when applying Table 3206.2.
for the storage areas.
3206.4 Automatic sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in accordance
with Sections 3207, 3208 and 3209.
3206.4.1 Pallets. Automatic sprinkler system requirements based on the presence of
pallets shall be in accordance with NFPA 13.
3206.4.1.1 Plastic pallets. Plastic pallets listed and labeled in accordance with
FM 4996 or UL 2335 shall be treated as wood pallets for determining required
sprinkler protection.
This building will have foam solid-pile storage and cardboard boxes on racks and shall have
sprinkler protection in accordance with Sections 3207 and 3208.
3206.5 Fire detection. Where fire detection is required by Table 3206.2, an approved
automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout the high-piled storage area. The
system shall be monitored and be in accordance with Section 907.
Fire detection is not required for this facility.
3206.6 Building access. Fire apparatus access roads in accordance with Section 503 shall be
provided within 150 feet of all portions of the exterior walls of buildings used for high-piled
storage.
Fire access roads are provided within 150 feet of the exterior walls of the building.
Exception: Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of
topography, railways, waterways, non-negotiable grades or other similar conditions,
the fire code official is authorized to require additional fire protection.
3206.7 Fire Department access doors. Where fire department access doors are required by
Table 3206.2, fire department access doors shall be provided in accordance with Sections
3206.7.1 through 3206.7.8.
Fire Department access doors are required for this facility.
3206.7.1 Exterior walls without fire department access doors. Fire department access
doors are not required in an exterior wall that does not face a fire apparatus access
road provided that all of the following conditions occur:
1. The opposite exterior wall faces a fire apparatus access road.
2. The opposite exterior wall is provided with fire department access doors.
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3. The entire interior surface of the exterior wall is less than 150 feet away
from a fire department access door.
4. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
3206.7.2 Where located. Where exterior walls surrounding high-piled storage areas
face fire apparatus access roads, such walls shall be provided with fire department
access doors.
3206.7.3 Access to doors. Fire department access doors shall be able to be accessed
without the use of a ladder.
3206.7.4 Marking on fire department access doors. Fire department access doors
shall be labeled on the exterior side with the following sign or other approved sign:
FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS DOOR
DO NOT BLOCK
The lettering shall be in a contrasting color to the background. Letters shall have a
minimum height of 2 inches with a minimum stroke of 3/8 inch.
3206.7.5 Number of doors required. The required fire department access doors shall
be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent fire department access
doors does not exceed 125 feet measured center to center.
Exception: The linear distance between adjacent access doors shall not exceed
200 feet in existing buildings where change in occupancy is not proposed.
There are fire department access doors located on the east and west sides of
the building and the distance does not exceed 200 feet IAW the exception
above.
3206.7.6 Door size and type. Fire department access doors shall be not less than 3
feet in width and 6 feet 8 inches in height. Roll-up doors shall not be considered fire
department access doors unless approved.
The doors are at least 3 feet wide and 6’-8 in height
3206.7.7 Locking devices. Locking devices on fire department access doors shall be
approved.
3206.7.8 Key box. Where fire department access doors are required, a key box shall
be installed in accordance with Section 506.1. The key box shall contain keys or
devices to allow for entry through the fire department access doors.
A key box will be located on the northeast side of the building.
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3206.8 Smoke and heat removal. Where smoke and heat removal are required by Table
3206.2, it shall be provided in accordance with Section 910.
Smoke and heat removal is not required if an ESFR system is installed to protect the
building IAW Table 3206.2 note h.
3206.9 Fire department hose connections. Where exit passageways are required by the
International Building Code for egress, a Class I standpipe system shall be provided in
accordance with Section 905.
Exit passageways are not required by the International Building code and therefore a Class I
standpipe system is not required.
3206.10 Aisles. Aisles providing access to exits and fire department access doors shall be
provided in high-piled storage areas exceeding 500 square feet, in accordance with Sections
3206.9.1 through 3206.9.3. Aisles separating storage piles or racks shall comply with NFPA 13.
Aisles shall also comply with Chapter 10.
Aisles shall be provided as the area exceeds 500 sqft.
3206.10.1 Width. Aisle width shall be in accordance with Sections 3206.10.1.1 and
3206.10.1.2.
3206.10.1.1 Sprinklered buildings. Aisles in sprinklered buildings shall be a
minimum of 44 inches wide. Aisles shall be a minimum of 96 inches wide in
high-piled storage areas exceeding 2,500 square feet in area, that are
accessible to the public and designated to contain high-hazard commodities.
Exception: Aisles in high-piled storage areas exceeding 2,500 square feet in
area, that are accessible to the public and designated to contain high-hazard
commodities, are protected by a sprinkler system designed for multiple-row
racks of high-hazard commodities shall be a minimum of 44 inches wide.
Aisles shall be a minimum of 96 inches wide in areas accessible to the public
where mechanical stocking methods are used.
This is a sprinklered building and must have aisles a minimum of 44 inches
wide. The building is not accessible to the public.
3206.10.2 Clear height. The required aisle width shall extend from floor to ceiling.
Rack structural supports and catwalks are allowed to cross aisles at a minimum height
of 6 feet 8 inches above the finished floor level, provided that such supports do not
interfere with fire department hose stream trajectory.
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3206.10.3 Dead ends. Dead-end aisles shall not exceed 20 feet in length in Group M
occupancies. Dead-end aisles shall not exceed 50 feet in length in all other
occupancies.
Exception: Dead-end aisles are not limited where the length of the dead-end
aisle is less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end aisle.
Dead end corridors in this facility shall not exceed 50 feet in length.
3206.11 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in
accordance with Section 906.
SECTION 906 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in the following:
1. In all Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-2, R-4 and S occupancies.
2. Within 30 feet (9144 mm) of commercial cooking equipment.
3. In areas where flammable or combustible liquids are stored, used or dispensed.
4. On each floor of structures under construction, except Group R-3 occupancies, in
accordance with Section 3315.1.
5. Where required by the sections indicated in Table 906.1.
6. Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to laboratories, computer rooms and
generator rooms, where required by the fire code official.
7. Group R-3 occupancies used as family day care, group family day care, foster care,
adult family day services and residential hospices.
906.2 General requirements. Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected, installed,
and maintained in accordance with this section and NFPA 10. Section 7.1.2 of NFPA 10
is deleted.
906.3 Size and distribution. The size and distribution of portable fire extinguishers
shall be in accordance with Sections 906.3.1 through 906.3.4.
906.3.1 Class A fire hazards. Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies that
involve primarily Class A fire hazards, the minimum sizes and distribution shall
comply with Table 906.3(1).
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In accordance with Note b, Table E3.4 is used to determine the type and number of
extinguishers needed.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be a minimum of Class 4-A. The distribution
throughout the storage facility area shall be as highlighted in Table 906.3.(1).
SECTION 3207 SOLID-PILED AND SHELF STORAGE
3207.1 General. Shelf storage and storage in solid piles, solid piles on pallets and bin box
storage in bin boxes not exceeding 5 feet in any dimension, shall be in accordance with
Section 3206 and this section.
3207.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2, an
approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour
fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code.
Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire
protection rating. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler system and other
applicable fire protection shall be in accordance with the International Building Code and
NFPA 13.
3207.3 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimensions, the maximum permissible
storage height and pile volume shall be in accordance with Table 3206.2.
3207.4 Arrays. Where an automatic sprinkler system design utilizes protection based on a
closed array, array clearances shall be provided and maintained as specified by the standard
used.
SECTION 3208 RACK STORAGE
3208.1 General. Rack storage shall be in accordance with Section 3206 and this section. Bin
boxes exceeding 5 feet in any dimension shall be regulated as rack storage.
3208.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2, an
approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour
fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code.
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Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire
protection rating. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler system and other
applicable fire protection shall be in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the International
Building Code.
903.3.1.1. NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that
a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in
accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1.
3208.3 Flue spaces. Rack storage areas protected with an automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided with flue spaces in accordance with Table 3208.3. Required flue spaces shall be
maintained.
3208.3.1 Flue space protection. Flue spaces required by Table 3208.3 above the first
tier of storage in single-, double- or multiple-row rack storage installations shall,
where required by the fire code official, be equipped with approved protection
devices. Such devices shall not be removed or modified.
Flue spaces will be maintained as outlined in the table 3208.3.
The 2020 Minnesota State Fire Code references the 2016 NFPA 13. The 2016 edition of NFPA 13
does not specifically address fire protection for solid piled and rack storage of Exposed Expanded
Group A Plastics. Therefore, the 2022 edition of NFPA 13 will be referenced to determine the fire
protection required for the expansion areas where exposed expanded foam will be stored in solid
piles and on racks and used at this facility. FM Global Sheet 08-09 - Table 6 will be used to
address the design criteria for the existing automatic sprinkler systems to continue to store the
Exposed Expanded Group A Plastics in solid piles.
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2022 NFPA 13
Chapter 20 General Requirements for Storage
Below are the sections of Chapter 20 that apply for this facility.
20.4.8
Plastic commodities shall be protected in accordance with Figure 20.4.8. (See
Section C.21.)
Figure 20.4.8 Decision Tree.
20.8 High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) Fans.
20.8.1
The installation of HVLS fans in buildings equipped with sprinklers, including ESFR
sprinklers, shall comply with the following:
(1) The maximum fan diameter shall be 24 ft.
(2) The HVLS fan shall be centered approximately between four adjacent
sprinklers.
(3) The vertical clearance from the HVLS fan to sprinkler deflector shall be a
minimum of 36 in.
(4) All HVLS fans shall be interlocked to shut down immediately upon a
waterflow alarm.
20.8.2
Where a building is protected with a fire alarm system, the interlock required
by 20.8.1(4) shall be in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72 or other
approved fire alarm code.
20.9.5 Roof Vents and Draft Curtains.
20.9.5.2
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Early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers shall not be used in buildings
with automatic heat or smoke vents unless the vents use a high-temperature
rated, standard-response operating mechanism.
20.9.5.3
Draft curtains shall not be used within ESFR sprinkler systems.
20.9.5.3.1
Draft curtains separating ESFR sprinklers at system breaks or from
control mode sprinklers or between hazards shall be
permitted. (See 14.2.5.)
20.9.5.3.2
Where ESFR sprinkler systems are installed adjacent to sprinkler
systems with standard-response sprinklers, a draft curtain of
noncombustible construction and at least 2 ft in depth shall be required
to separate the two areas.
20.9.5.3.3
A clear aisle of at least 4 ft centered below the draft curtain shall be
maintained for separation.
20.9.6 Clearance from Deflector to Storage.
20.9.6.5
A minimum clearance to storage of 36 in. shall be provided for ESFR and CMSA
sprinklers.
20.13 Adjacent Hazards or Design Methods.
20.13.1
For buildings with two or more adjacent hazards or design methods, the following
shall apply:
(1) Where areas are not physically separated by a barrier or partition capable
of delaying heat from a fire in one area from fusing sprinklers in the adjacent
area, the required sprinkler protection for the more demanding design basis
shall extend 15 ft (4.6 m) beyond its perimeter.
(2) The requirements of 20.13.1(1) shall not apply where the areas are
separated by a draft curtain or barrier located above an aisle, horizontally a
minimum of 24 in. (600 mm) from the adjacent hazard on each side, or a
partition that is capable of delaying heat from a fire in one area from fusing
sprinklers in the adjacent area.
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(3) The requirements of 20.13.1(1) shall not apply to the extension of more
demanding criteria from an upper ceiling level to beneath a lower ceiling level
where the difference in height between the ceiling levels is at least 24 in.
(600 mm), located above an aisle, horizontally a minimum 24 in. (600 mm)
from the adjacent hazard on each side.
20.14 Hose Connections.
20.14.1 Small [11∕ 2 in. (40 mm)] Hose Connections.
See Section C.5.
20.14.1.1 Hose Connection.
Small hose connections [11∕ 2 in.] shall be provided where required by the
authority having jurisdiction in accordance with Section 16.15 for first-aid, fire-
fighting, and overhaul operations.
20.15 Hose Stream Allowance and Water Supply Duration.
20.15.1
Hose stream allowance and water supply duration for Chapters 20 through 25 shall be
in accordance with Section 20.15.
20.15.2 Hose Stream Allowance and Water Supply Duration.
20.15.2.3
Water allowance for outside hose shall be added to the sprinkler requirement
at the connection to the city main or a yard hydrant, whichever is closer to the
system riser.
20.15.2.4
Where inside hose connections are planned or are required, the following shall
apply:
(1) A total water allowance of 50 gpm for a single hose connection
installation shall be added to the sprinkler requirements.
(2) A total water allowance of 100 gpm for a multiple hose connection
installation shall be added to the sprinkler requirements.
(3) The water allowance shall be added in 50 gpm increments
beginning at the most remote hose connection, with each increment
added at the pressure required by the sprinkler system design at that
point.
20.15.2.5
When hose valves for fire department use are attached to wet pipe sprinkler
system risers in accordance with 16.15.2, the following shall apply:
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(1) The water supply shall not be required to be added to standpipe
demand as determined from NFPA 14.
(2) Where the combined sprinkler system demand and hose stream
allowance of Chapters 20 through 25 exceeds the requirements
of NFPA 14, this higher demand shall be used.
20.15.2.6
Unless indicated otherwise, the minimum water supply requirements for a
hydraulically designed sprinkler system shall be determined by adding the hose
stream allowance from Table 20.15.2.6 to the water demand for sprinklers.
A hose allowance of 250 gpm shall be added to the hydraulic calculations for
the ESFR System.
20.15.3
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The minimum water supply requirements shall be determined by adding the hose
stream allowance from 20.15.2 to the water supply for sprinklers as determined by
Chapters 20 through 25.
20.15.4
The minimum water supply requirements determined from 20.15.3 shall be available
for the minimum duration specified in 20.15.2.
20.15.5
Total system water supply requirements shall be determined in accordance with the
hydraulic calculation procedures of Chapter 28.
20.16 Discharge Considerations: General.
20.16.2 Wet Pipe Systems.
20.16.2.1
Sprinkler systems shall be wet pipe systems.
20.16.2.2
In areas that are subject to freezing or where special conditions exist, dry pipe
systems and preaction systems shall be permitted to protect storage
occupancies.
20.17 Protection of Idle Pallets.
20.17.1 Wood Pallets.
20.17.1.1
Wood pallets shall be permitted to be stored in the following arrangements:
(1) Stored outside
(2) Stored in a detached structure
(3) Stored indoors where arranged and protected in accordance
with 20.17.1.2
Idle wood pallets will be stored indoors.
20.17.1.2
Wood pallets, where stored indoors, shall be protected in accordance with one
of the following:
(1) Control mode density/area sprinkler protection as specified in Table
20.17.1.2(a)
(2) CMSA sprinkler protection in accordance with Table 20.17.1.2(b)
(3) ESFR sprinkler protection in accordance with Table 20.17.1.2(c)
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(4) Control mode density/area sprinkler protection in accordance with
the Ordinary Hazard Group 2 curve and Figure 19.2.3.1.1 with a hose
stream demand of at least 250 gpm for a duration of at least
60 minutes when pallets are stored no higher than 6 ft and each pile of
no more than four stacks is separated from other pallet piles by at least
8 ft of clear space or 25 ft of commodity.
The ESFR sprinkler system will protect the idle wood pallets IAW Table
20.17.1.2 (c).
20.17.1.3
Idle wood pallets shall not be stored in racks unless they are protected in
accordance with the appropriate requirements of Table 20.17.1.2(a) or Table
20.17.1.2(c). (See Section C.7.)
Idle wood pallets can be stored in racks as the ESFR system is designed to meet
the requirements in Table 20.17.1.2(c) using 25.2K sprinkler heads.
20.17.2 Plastic Pallets.
20.17.2.1
Plastic pallets shall be permitted to be stored in the following manner:
(1) Plastic pallets shall be permitted to be stored outside.
(2) Plastic pallets shall be permitted to be stored in a detached
structure.
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(3) Plastic pallets shall be permitted to be stored indoors where
arranged and protected in accordance with the requirements
of 20.17.2.2.
Plastic pallets will be stored indoors.
20.17.2.2 Protection Criteria for Plastic Pallets Stored Indoors.
20.17.2.2.1
Plastic pallets having a demonstrated fire hazard that is equal to or less
than idle wood pallets and is listed for such equivalency shall be
permitted to be protected in accordance with 20.17.1.
20.17.2.2.2
When specific test data are available, the data shall take precedence in
determining the required protection of idle plastic pallets.
20.17.2.2.3
Protection with ESFR sprinklers shall be in accordance with the
requirements of Table 20.17.2.2.3.
The ESFR sprinkler system shall be designed to meet the requirements of
Table 20.17.2.2.3 with a minimum sprinkler operating pressure of 35 psi
where plastic pallets will be stored.
20.17.2.3
Idle plastic pallets shall be stored only in racks where protected in accordance
with the requirements of Table 20.17.2.2.3.
Plastic pallets can be stored on racks as the ESFR sprinkler system design meets
the requirements of Table 20.17.2.2.3 with a minimum sprinkler operating
pressure of 35 psi.
20.17.3 Idle Pallets Stored on Racks, on Shelves, and Above Doors.
20.17.3.1
Idle pallets shall not be stored on racks or shelves, except where permitted
in 20.17.1.3, 20.17.2.3, and 20.17.3.2.
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20.17.3.2
Idle pallets shall be permitted to be stored on the lowest level of storage only
where no storage or shelves are located above the stored pallets and the
applicable protection criteria referenced for on-floor storage in
Section 20.17 are applied.
20.17.3.3
Where idle pallet storage is above a door, the idle pallet storage height and
ceiling height shall be calculated from the base of storage above the door using
the applicable protection criteria referenced in Section 20.17.
20.18 Column Protection: Rack Storage and Rubber Tire Storage.
20.18.1
Where fireproofing of building columns is not provided and storage heights are in
excess of 15 ft, protection of building columns located wholly or partially within the
rack footprint inclusive of flue spaces or within 12 in. of the footprint shall be
protected in accordance with one of the following (see Section C.10):
(1) In-rack sprinklers
(2) Sidewall sprinklers at the 15 ft elevation, pointed toward one side of the steel
column
(3) Provision of ceiling sprinkler density for a minimum of 2000 ft2 with ordinary-
temperature-rated [165°F] or high-temperature-rated[286°F] sprinklers as shown
in Table 20.18.1 for storage heights above 15 ft, up to and including 20 ft
(4) Provision of CMSA or ESFR ceiling sprinkler protection
Protection of steel columns is not required as protection is provided with an ESFR
system.
Chapter 23 ESFR Requirements for Storage Applications
23.1 General.
The criteria in Chapter 20 shall apply to storage protected with ESFR sprinklers.
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23.1.1
ESFR sprinklers designed to meet any criteria in this chapter shall be permitted to
protect any of the following:
(1) Light hazard occupancies
(2) Ordinary hazard occupancies
(3) Any storage arrangement with OH1, OH2, EH1, and EH2 design criteria
23.1.2 Draft Curtains.
23.1.2.1
Where ESFR sprinkler systems are installed adjacent to sprinkler systems with
standard-response sprinklers, a draft curtain of noncombustible construction
and at least 2 ft in depth shall be required to separate the two areas.
23.1.2.2
A clear aisle of at least 4 ft centered below the draft curtain shall be
maintained for separation.
23.1.3
The ceiling design criteria for single-, double-, and multiple-row racks in this chapter
shall be based on open-rack configurations as defined in 3.3.147.
23.1.3.1
ESFR sprinklers shall not be permitted to protect storage on solid shelf racks
unless the solid shelf racks are protected with in-rack sprinklers in accordance
with Chapter 25.
23.1.3.2
ESFR sprinklers shall not be permitted to protect storage with open-top
containers.
23.1.3.3
ESFR sprinkler systems shall be designed such that the minimum operating
pressure is not less than that indicated in this chapter for type of storage,
commodity, storage height, and building height involved.
23.2 ESFR Design Criteria.
23.2.1
ESFR design criteria shall be selected from Section 23.3 through Section 23.6.
23.2.2
All design areas shall consist of the most hydraulically demanding 12 sprinklers, with
four sprinklers on each of three branch lines, unless otherwise specified.
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Design area will have 12 sprinklers with 4 sprinklers on each of three branchlines.
23.3 ESFR Sprinklers for Palletized, Solid-Piled, or Rack Storage of Class I Through Class IV
and Group A Plastic Commodities.
23.3.1
Protection of palletized, solid-piled, or rack storage of Class I through Class IV and
Group A commodities shall be in accordance with Table 23.3.1.
23.4 * Protection of Exposed Expanded Group A Plastics.
23.4.1
Protection of single-, double-, and multiple-row rack storage of exposed expanded
Group A plastics shall be permitted to be in accordance with 23.4.2 through 23.4.7.
23.4.2
The maximum storage height shall be 35 ft.
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The maximum storage height will be 15’-0 in AMCONs current tenant space and 20’-0
in AMCONs expansion.
23.4.3
The maximum ceiling height shall be 40 ft.
The ceiling height is 17’-10 in AMCONs current tenant space and 23’-10 in AMCONs
expansion space.
23.4.4
Sprinklers shall be intermediate temperature–rated ESFR pendent sprinklers with a
nominal K-factor of K-25.2.
Sprinkler heads will be intermediate temperature-rated ESFR sprinklers with a K-factor
of 25.2
23.4.4.1
The maximum sprinkler deflector distance below the ceiling shall be 14 in.
The maximum deflector distance below the ceiling will be 14”.
23.4.5
The minimum operating pressure shall be as follows, based upon the applicable
storage and ceiling height for the installation:
(1) 30 psi for storage heights up to 25 ft with a maximum ceiling height of 30 ft
(2) 60 psi for storage heights up to 35 ft with a maximum ceiling height of 40 ft
The minimum operating pressure for this facility is 30 psi.
23.4.6
The minimum aisle width shall be 8 ft. The minimum aisle width will be 8 feet.
23.4.7
The rack shall have a solid vertical barrier of 3∕ 8 in. plywood or particleboard, 0.013 in.
sheet metal, or equivalent, from face of rack to face of rack, spaced at a maximum of
16.5 ft intervals.
Any racks containing exposed expanded foam will have solid vertical barrier as
required.
23.4.7.1
The vertical barrier shall extend from a maximum of 4 in. above the floor to the
maximum storage height.
23.4.7.2
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The plan area of storage between vertical barriers and aisles shall not exceed
124 ft2.
23.4.7.3
The vertical barrier shall extend across the longitudinal flue.
23.4.7.4
The commodity shall be permitted to extend a nominal 4 in. beyond the
vertical barrier at the aisle.
SECTION 5003 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
5003.1 Scope. The storage, use and handling of all hazardous materials shall be in accordance with
this section.
The hazardous materials being stored are stored in a hazardous materials storage cabinet.
5003.1.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control area. The maximum allowable
quantity per control area shall be as specified in Tables 5003.1.1(1) through
5003.1.1(4).
The MAQs being stored are not exceeded in this facility.
The liquids in Table 2 above “Stored” and “IN USE” in the warehouse that are Class
IB Flammable Liquids and Class II and Class IIIA Combustible Liquids must meet the
requirements of Chapter 57 of the 2020 Minnesota Fire Code if the Maximum
Allowable Quantity is exceeded.
The hazardous chemicals will be stored in the Flammable Liquid Storage Cabinet
and the quantities will not exceed 120 gallons.
Figure 5. Flammable Liquid Storage Cabinet
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Conclusion
The Amcon facility and the storage of High Piled Combustible Materials will meet the code
requirements of the 2020 MSBC and 2020 MSFC with the following provisions:
1) Fire access roads are to be maintained within 150 feet of all exterior walls of the building.
2) No smoking signs shall be posted.
3) Maximum travel distance to an exit shall not exceed 250’-0 in accordance with MSBC Section
Table 10.17.2.
4) The fire department access doors shall be accessible at all times.
5) Exit signs shall be provided IAW the MSFC Section 1013 to ensure the path of egress travel to
exits is clearly marked and indicates the direction of travel in cases where the exit is not
immediately visible to the occupants.
6) Doors shall be equipped with approved locking devices only approved by the Fridley FD.
7) Dead end aisles shall not exceed 50 feet in length.
8) Class 4-A portable fire extinguishers shall be distributed throughout the storage facility.
9) Smoke and heat vents are NOT required.
10) The existing sprinkler system in the storage area does not meet the requirements of NFPA 13 for
the solid piled and rack storage of Class I - IV exposed expanded Group A plastics up to 15’-0 in
the existing facility and 20’-0 in the expansion area.
a. EXISTING STORAGE AREAS
The following modifications must be made to the existing sprinkler system to meet the
requirements to store Class I- IV commodities and Exposed Expanded Group A plastics up to
15’-0 in the existing facility FM GLOBAL DATA SHEET 08-09 - TABLE 6 SHALL BE FOLLOWED.
i. Remove all sprinkler heads and replace with 16.8K sprinkler heads
ii. Remove existing sprinkler mains and branchlines as needed to meet design
criteria and to provide gridded sprinkler systems.
iii. Install new system that can meet the design criteria for an ESFR system as
indicated in the report using intermediate temperature-rated 16.8K heads and
250 GPM hose allowance. The existing 6” or 8” risers may be used if proven
hydraulically.
1. UP TO 20’-0 CEILING: ESFR system shall be designed 12 sprinkler heads with
18 psi operating pressure to allow storage of plastic pallets as well as the
Group A exposed expanded plastic foam products
2. UP TO 25’-0 CEILING: ESFR system shall be designed with 9 sprinkler heads
with 52 psi operating pressure to allow storage of plastic pallets as well as
the Group A exposed expanded plastic foam products i
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b. EXPANSION STORAGE AREAS
The following modifications must be made to the existing sprinkler system to meet the
requirements to store Class I- IV commodities and Exposed Expanded Group A plastics up
to 15’-0 in the 20’-0 in the expansion area. 2022 NFPA 13 SHALL BE FOLLOWED.
i. Remove existing sprinkler mains, branchlines and sprinkler heads
ii. Install a new system that can meet the design criteria for an ESFR system as
indicated in the report using intermediate temperature-rated 25.2K heads and
250 GPM hose allowance. Recommend gridded system with 8” Riser, 8” feed
main, 6” mains and 2.5” branchlines. The existing system riser can be used if it is
8”. The existing 6” riser may be used in the expansion area if proven hydraulically.
iii. ESFR system shall be designed with 35 psi operating pressure to allow storage of
plastic pallets as well as the Group A exposed expanded plastic foam products.
11) The ESFR sprinkler deflector shall not be more than 14” down from the roof deck or ceiling.
12) 36” clearance shall be maintained between sprinkler deflector and top of pile storage.
13) Idle wood pallets may be stored outside or inside on the floor or in racks up to 20’-0.
14) Idle plastic pallets may be stored outside or inside on the floor or in racks up to 20’-0
15) Label all designated fire access doors in letters not less than 1” high to read “FIRE DOOR – DO
NOT BLOCK” in accordance with MSFC 703.2.1.
16) Provide a visual method of indicating the required aisles of 8’-0” throughout the facility.
17) Provide a visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height permitted at 15’-0
throughout the existing facility and 20’-0 in the expansion area.
18) Approved “No Smoking” signs shall be installed.
19) A revised evacuation plan shall be provided.
20) Open top containers shall not be stored.
21) Encapsulated items shall not be stored.
22) Storage in piles shall be as shown in the storage plan shown in Figure 1.
23) Approved devices shall be installed within the racking to maintain flue spaces. Products shall be
similar to Flueguard and Fluekeeper. Flue Spaces shall be 6” for Transverse and Longitudinal.
Flueguard Fluekeeper
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Hazardous Materials
1) Containers shall be approved containers for hazardous materials.
2) Empty containers shall be free from residue material and vapor.
3) Defective containers shall be removed from service and repaired or disposed of in and
approved manner.
4) Hazardous materials shall not be released into a sewer, storm drain, ditch, drainage canal,
creek, stream, river, lake or tidal waterway or on the ground, sidewalk, street, highway or
into the atmosphere.
5) Unauthorized discharges shall be reported and documented IAW 5003.3.1.
6) Safety Data Sheets (SDS) shall be readily available on the premises.
7) Visible hazard identification signs shall be placed on stationary containers and at
entrances to locations where hazardous materials are stored, dispensed, used or
handles.
8) Individual containers, cartons or packages shall be conspicuously marked or
labeled.
9) Smoking shall be prohibited, and No Smoking signs shall be posted IAW 5003.7.1.
10) Powered industrial trucks shall be IAW Section 309.2.
11) The building shall be constructed IAW the Minnesota State Building Code.
12) A person shall be designated to be a fire department liaison that is responsible for the
operation of areas in which hazardous materials are stored, dispensed, handled or used
shall be familiar with the chemical nature of the materials and the appropriate mitigating
actions necessary in the event of fire, leak or spill.
13) Shelving shall be of substantial construction and shall be braced and anchored.
14) The hazardous materials shall be stored in the Flammable Liquid Storage Cabinet clearly identified in an
approved manner with red letters on a contrasting background to read: HAZARDOUS—KEEP FIRE AWAY
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Appendix A – Warehouse Floor Plan
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Appendix B – Safety Data Sheets