Second Revision No. 34-NFPA 75-2015 [ Global Comment ]...Second Revision No. 5-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 3.3.16.3 ] 3.3.16.3 Noncombustible Material. A material that, in the form

Second Revision No. 34-NFPA 75-2015 [ Global Comment ]

In 1.1, change first instance of 'information technology equipment' to 'information technologyequipment (ITE)'.

For second instance, and throughout the rest of the document, change 'information technologyequipment' to 'ITE'

Submitter Information Verification

Submitter Full Name: Michael Beady

Organization: [ Not Specified ]

Street Address:

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Submittal Date: Wed Apr 08 14:48:01 EDT 2015

Committee Statement

Committee Statement: Editorial correction.

Response Message:

National Fire Protection Association Report http://submittals.nfpa.org/TerraViewWeb/ContentFetcher?commentPara...

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SR-34 References

Validation of Modeling Tools for Detection Design in High Airflow Environments

http://www.nfpa.org/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/reports-and-proceedings/detection-

and-signaling/smoke-detection/detection-design-modeling-tools-in-high-air-flow-environment

Validation of Modeling Tools for Detection Design in High Airflow Environments – Phase 2

http://www.nfpa.org/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/reports-and-proceedings/detection-

and-signaling/smoke-detection/validation-of-modeling-tools-for-detection-design-in-high-air-flow-

environments-phase-2

Experimental Data for Model Validation of Smoke Transport in Data Centers

http://www.fmglobal.com/page.aspx?id=04010300

http://www.nfpa.org/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/reports-and-proceedings/detection-and-signaling/smoke-detection/detection-design-modeling-tools-in-high-air-flow-environment

http://www.nfpa.org/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/reports-and-proceedings/detection-and-signaling/smoke-detection/detection-design-modeling-tools-in-high-air-flow-environment

http://www.nfpa.org/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/reports-and-proceedings/detection-and-signaling/smoke-detection/validation-of-modeling-tools-for-detection-design-in-high-air-flow-environments-phase-2



http://www.fmglobal.com/page.aspx?id=04010300

Second Revision No. 23-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 1.3 ]

1.3* Application.

The application of this standard is based on the risk considerations outlined in Chapter 4.

1.3.1

A documented risk assessment shall be the basis for implementation of this standard.

1.3.2

The mere presence of the information technology ITE equipment shall not constitute the need to invokethe requirements of this standard.

Supplemental Information

File Name Description

SR_23_NFPA_75_Flow_Chart_Final.pdf

SR_23_Annex_Material.docx


Submitter Full Name: Jon Hart


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Submittal Date: Tue Mar 24 15:09:05 EDT 2015

Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision add a new figure to A.1.3 that is decision tree which intended to clarify to the user ofthe standard how NFPA 75 is to be applied. The first decision as spelt out by Section 1.3 is whetheror not the standard applies at all. Once that has been determined, Chapter 4 permits the user tochoose between one or both a prescriptive approach or a risk based approach.

ResponseMessage:


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Does NFPA 75 Apply? (1.3)

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No. Protect solely per other applicable codes and standards.

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Yes. Supplement other applicable codes and standards with the occupancy-specific requirements of NFPA 75.

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Given the factors in 4.1.1, which fire protection approach(es) outlined in 4.1.2 are applicable?

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Prescriptive-based approach as permitted by 4.1.2 (1).

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Fire risk based approach as permitted by 4.1.2 (2).

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Perform a risk assessment per 4.1.3 and 4.2.

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Apply performance-based design as outlined in Ch. 5.

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Use prescriptive requirements provided in NFPA 75 (excluding Ch. 5).

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Identify the approach to mitigate each risk.

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Chapter 4 Fire Protection Approach

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A.1.3

See Figure A.1.3.

****[Insert Flow Chart as Figure A.1.3

“Decision Tree for Application of NFPA

75”]*****

Second Revision No. 2-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 2.3.1 ]

2.3.1 ASTM Publications.

ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, 2007 2014 .

ASTM E136, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C,1999 2012 .

ASTM E814, Standard Method of Fire Tests of Through-Penetration Fire Stops, 1997 2013a .

ASTM E1354, Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials andProducts Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter , 2013.

ASTM E1537, Standard Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture, 2007 2013 .

ASTM E2652, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with a Cone-ShapedAirflow Stabilizer, at 750°C, 2012.




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Submittal Date: Mon Mar 23 11:21:32 EDT 2015

Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision updates the referenced documents to their most current editions. Additionally, areference to ASTME 1354 was added as a result of the committee action on SR 13.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 3-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. 2.3.1]


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Second Revision No. 4-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 3.3.16.2 ]

3.3.16.2 Limited-Combustible Material.

A material not meeting the definition for noncombustible material and that, in the form in which it is used,exhibits a potential heat value not exceeding 3500 Btu/lb (8141 kJ/kg) where tested in accordance withNFPA 259; and either has a structural base of a noncombustible material with a surfacing not exceeding athickness of 1⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) where the surfacing exhibits a flame spread index not greater than 50 whentested in accordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics ofBuilding Materials , or ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials , or is composed of materials that, in the form and thickness used, exhibit neither a flamespread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion when tested inaccordance with ASTM E84 or ANSI/UL 723 and of such composition that all surfaces that would beexposed by cutting through the material on any plane would exhibit neither a flame spread index greaterthan 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 orANSI/UL 723. See 6.2.2 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This definition has been removed because the requirements for limited combustible materialare now contained in Chapter 6. See SR-3

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 40-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. 3.3.16.2]


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3.3.16.3 Noncombustible Material.

A material that, in the form in which it is used and under the conditions anticipated, will not ignite, burn,support combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected to fire or heat, or a material that isreported as passing ASTM E136, Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical TubeFurnace at 750°C , or a material that is reported as complying with the pass/fail criteria of ASTM E136when tested in accordance with the test method and procedure in ASTM E2652, Standard Test Methodfor Behavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with a Cone-Shaped Airflow Stabilizer, at 750°C See 6.2.1 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision has removed the definition for noncombustible material from Chapter 3, as therequirements for what constitutes noncombustible material is now contained in Chapter 6. SeeSR-3.

ResponseMessage:



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Second Revision No. 15-NFPA 75-2015 [ Chapter 4 ]

Global SR-34

Chapter 4 Risk Considerations Fire Protection Approaches.

4.1 Fire Risk Analysis Factors Fire Protection Approach .

The fire protection approach for information technology equipment ITE , ITE rooms, and informationtechnology equipment ITE areas shall be permitted to be determined based on an evaluation of fire risksand hazards associated with the site and services provided and the business continuity planning anddisaster restoration capabilities of the information technology equipment ITE service provider specific tothe site.

4.1.1

The fire protection approach shall be established with consideration given to the following factors:

(1) Exposure threat to facility occupants, the general public, emergency responders, and exposed propertyfrom a fire occurring at the facility, adjacent to or within the information technology ITE areas

(2) The importance of the continuity of the data being stored or processed by the information technologyequipment ITE

(3) Methods and equipment employed , as part of a risk management or business continuity strategy, thatallow data to remain viable during and after an event or to be replaced or restored

(4) The potential for a given protection strategy to result in a service or data disruption or inhibit the ability ofthe data provider to restore operation and access to the data in a timely manner post-event

4.1.2

The fire protection approach shall be developed in conjunction with the considerations in4.2.3 4.2.34.2.4 4.2.3 resulting in the use of one or both of the following strategies for areas within theinformation technology equipment ITE area s :

(1) Prescriptive-based approaches in accordance with this standard

Performance-based approaches in accordance with Chapter 6

(2) A fire risk–based approach in accordance with 4.1.3 and Section 4.2

4.1.3

A fire risk – analysis based approach shall be permitted to be used to determine the construction, fireprotection suppression , fire detection, and utility requirements for information technologyequipment ITE , information technology ITE rooms, and information technology equipment ITE areaswhere specifically permitted by Chapters 6 , 9 , and 11 this standard that are necessary to achievethe purpose of this standard . stated in (See Section 1.2. )

4.2 Risk Considerations. Fire Risk Assessment.

4.2.1*

The fire risk analysis assessment conducted in permitted by 4.1.2 shall be documented and acceptableto the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) .

4.2.2

The fire risk analysis assessment shall include an evaluation of the risk management considerationsas outlined in Section 4.2.3 .


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4.2.3*

The following elements shall be considered to determine the level of acceptable fire risk documented aspart of the fire risk analysis assessment (see also Annex C ) :

(1) Life safety aspects of the function (e.g., process controls, air traffic controls)

(2) Fire threat of the installation to occupants or exposed property

(3) Continuity of service, operation, and data access

(4) Size and value of the information technology ITE areas

(5) Economic loss from loss of function or loss of records

(6) Economic loss from value of equipment

(7) Regulatory impact

(8) Reputation impact

(9) Construction and compartmentation of the information technology equipment ITE areas

(10) Fire protection suppression and detection features provided for the information technologyequipment ITE areas

(11) Response time to an alarm

(12) Local fire-fighting capabilities

(13) Redundant infrastructure, including off-site processing systems

(14) Life safety of occupants of information technology equipment ITE areas and adjacent spaces,emergency responders, and general public

4.2.4

The fire risk analysis assessment shall cover the entire information technology equipment ITE area,including all adjacent exposures.

4.2.5

An approved performance-based approach, in accordance with Chapter 5 , shall be permitted to beapplied selectively to specifically identified areas, hazards, or equipment or to specific fire protectionrequirements for an entire information technology equipment ITE area.

4.3 Telecommunications Risks.

4.3.1 Telecommunications Risks for the Private Network.

4.3.1.1

To assess and evaluate the damage and interruption potential of the loss of information technologyequipment ITE room operations, a risk evaluation shall be conducted on the impact of the loss of dataand communications.

4.3.1.2

The provisions of this standard shall apply to those areas housing telecommunications equipment thatare part of a private network or where the need for protection has been determined by the risk evaluationoutlined in 4.3.1.1 .

4.3.2 Telecommunications Risks for the Public Networks.

4.3.2.1

NFPA 76 shall apply to telecommunications facilities that are part of the public network as outlined in thescope of NFPA 76 .

4.3.2.2

The provisions of this standard shall not apply to telecommunications facilities that are part of the publicnetwork.



SR_15_Final.docx



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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision is intended to clarify the application of chapter 4 by reordering the chapter in a morelogical order which captures the thought process for how the risk assessment is meant to be appliedacross the standard. The word analysis has been changed to assessment to create consistentterminology throughout the standard.. Title was changed to Fire Protection Approaches todemonstrate that it would be in Chapter 4 that the user is permitted to either take a prescriptiveapproach to the fire protection or to use a risk based approach that is further detailed in Chapter 4.The flow chart added to A.1.3 in SR 23 is intended to further clarify this issue.

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Chapter 4 Risk Considerations Fire Protection Approaches

4.1 Fire Protection Approach Risk Analysis Factors.

The fire protection approach for information technology equipment, information technology equipment ITE rooms, and information technology equipment ITE areas shall be permitted to be determined based on an evaluation of fire risks and hazards associated with the site and services provided and the business continuity planning and disaster restoration capabilities of the information technology equipment ITE service provider specific to the site.

4.1.1

The fire protection approach shall be established with consideration given to the following factors:

(1) Exposure threat to facility occupants, the general public, emergency responders, and exposed property from a fire occurring at the facility, adjacent to, or within the information technology areas

(2) The importance of the continuity of the data being stored or processed by the information technology equipment

(3) Methods and equipment employed, as part of a risk management or business continuity strategy, that allow data to remain viable during and after an event or to be replaced or restored

(4) The potential for a given protection strategy to result in a service or data disruption or inhibit the ability of the data provider to restore operation and access to the data in a timely manner post-event

4.2.3 4.1.2 The fire protection approach shall be developed in conjunction with the considerations in 4.2.1 resulting in the use of one or both of the following strategies for areas within the ITE area: (1) Prescriptive-based approach in accordance with this standard (2) A fire risk based approach in accordance with Section 4.1.3 and 4.2. 4.1.23

A fire risk analysis based approach shall be permitted to be used to determine the construction, fire protection suppression, fire detection, and utility requirements for information technology equipment, information technology ITE rooms, and information technology equipment ITE areas where specifically permitted by Chapters 6, 9, and 11 this standard that are necessary to achieve the purpose of this standard stated in Section 1.2. 4.2 Fire Risk Assessment

4.2.1.34*

The fire risk analysis assessment conducted in permitted by 4.1.2 shall be documented and acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

4.1.45 2.2

The fire risk analysis assessment shall include an evaluation of the risk management considerations as outlined in Section 4.2.3.

4.2 Fire Risk Assessment Considerations.

4.2.31*

The following elements shall be considered to determine the level of acceptable fire risk documented as part of the fire risk assessment analysis (see also Annex C):

(1) Life safety aspects of the function (e.g., process controls, air traffic controls)

(2) Fire threat of the installation to occupants or exposed property

(3) Continuity of service, operation, and data access

(4) Size and value of the information technology areas

(5) Economic loss from loss of function or loss of records

(6) Economic loss from value of equipment

(7) Regulatory impact

(8) Reputation impact

(9) Construction and compartmentation of the information technology equipment areas

(10) Fire protection suppression and detection features provided for the information technology equipment areas

(11) Response time to an alarm

(12) Local fire-fighting capabilities

(13) Redundant infrastructure, including off-site processing systems

(14) Life safety of occupants of information technology equipment areas and adjacent spaces, emergency responders, and general public

4.2.42

The fire risk analysis assessment shall cover the entire information technology equipment ITE area, including all adjacent exposures.

4.2.3

The fire protection approach shall be developed in conjunction with the considerations in 4.2.1 resulting in the use of one or both of the following strategies for areas within the information technology equipment area:

(1) Prescriptive-based approaches in accordance with this standard

(2) Performance-based approaches in accordance with Chapter 6

4.2.54

An approved performance-based approach, in accordance with Chapter 5, shall be permitted to be applied selectively to specifically identified areas, hazards, or equipment or to specific fire protection requirements for an entire information technology equipment ITE area.

4.3 Telecommunications Risks.

4.3.1 Telecommunications Risks for the Private Network.

4.3.1.1

To assess and evaluate the damage and interruption potential of the loss of information technology equipment room operations, a risk evaluation shall be conducted on the impact of the loss of data and communications.

4.3.1.2

The provisions of this standard shall apply to those areas housing telecommunications equipment that are part of a private network or where the need for protection has been determined by the risk evaluation outlined in 4.3.1.1.

4.3.2 Telecommunications Risks for the Public Networks.

4.3.2.1

NFPA 76 shall apply to telecommunications facilities that are part of the public network as outlined in the scope of NFPA 76.

4.3.2.2

The provisions of this standard shall not apply to telecommunications facilities that are part of the public network.

A.4.2.13

The protection for information technology equipment (ITE) and ITE areas should be specific to the nature and anticipated fire risks of each facility. The risk analysis should consider the risk and hazards associated with the site and services provided for a given fire safety problem. Additional considerations can include the following:

(1) Availability of alternative ITE or ITE rooms

(2) Permitted downtime of ITE

(3) Presence of additional fire protection and detection equipment proximate to the ITE room

(4) Survivability of the ITE and ITE room environment

(5) Number and training of emergency response personnel

(6) Building construction

NFPA 551 can be used as a reference guide for conducting and evaluating fire risk assessments.


5.2 Goals and Objectives.

The performance-based design shall meet the following goals and objectives:

(1) The performance-based approach is to allow allows the alternative means to be utilized for theelements of the information technology equipment (ITE) ITE , ITE rooms, and ITE areas as permittedin Chapters 6 , 9 , and 11 this standard .

(2) The risk analysis, design criteria, design brief, system performance, and testing criteria aredeveloped in accordance with this section.

(3) The fire protection system(s) disseminates information to the target audience in an accurate andtimely manner. The design meets the scope and purpose of the standard as detailed in Sections 1.1and 1.2.

(4) The design and performance criteria are specific to the nature and anticipated risks of eachlocation. The performance based design provides equivalent performance to the prescriptiverequirements of this standard.

The fire protection system(s) is capable of withstanding various scenarios and survives even if somedamage has already occurred.

Message initiation can be affected by all responding entities responsible for the safety and securityof occupants.



SR_7.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

Items 3-6 were deleted because they would have required more an even more stringent designthan the standard's prescriptive approach requires. The new item (3) is intended to make it clear tothe user that the scope and purpose of the standard must still be met in a performance baseddesign approach. The objective of the performance based design has been clarified by adding item(4) to identify that the design must provide an equivalent performance.

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Public Comment No. 9-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. 4.1 [Excluding any Sub-Sections]]

Public Comment No. 21-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. 5.2]


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5.3* Qualifications.

The performance-based design and risk analysis documents shall be prepared by a licensed designprofessional experienced with experience in fire protection, and approved by acceptable to the authorityhaving jurisdiction AHJ .



SR_8_Annex.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This section has been clarified to show that the qualifications required are for the individualresponsible for the documentation of the performance based design. The qualitative and quantitativemethods used in fire risk assessments require considerable technical judgement normally developedthrough experience and the addition of the new annex note is intended to provide some clarity as towhat that experience and knowledge should entaill.

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SR‐8 New annex material

A.5.3

It is essential that the design professional recognize the possibility of fire in IT facilities. Licensed design

professionals who develop performance based design documents should be well versed in the science of

fire, the effects of fire on ITE and operations, and options for mitigation of the risk to persons,

equipment and operations presented by fire in ITE facilities.


Global SR-34

5.4 Independent Review.

The authority having jurisdiction AHJ shall be permitted to require an approved, independent third partyto review the proposed design brief and based on the documented fire risk assessment accepted by theAHJ to provide an evaluation of the design to the authority having jurisdiction .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision intends to clarify that the third party review is limited to a review of the proposeddesign brief which is based on a previously accepted risk assessment performed in accordancewith Chapter 4. Because the risk assessment had been previously accepted, the option here is tohave a third party review the design brief.

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Second Revision No. 3-NFPA 75-2015 [ New Section after 6.1 ]

6.2* Combustibility of Materials.

6.2.1 Noncombustible Material. [ 101 :4.6.13]

6.2.1.1

A material that complies with any of the following shall be considered a noncombustible material:

(1)

(2) A material that is reported as passing ASTM E136, Standard Test Method for Behavior ofMaterials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 Degrees C

(3) A material that is reported as complying with the pass/fail criteria of ASTM E136 when tested inaccordance with the test method and procedure in ASTM E2652, Standard Test Method forBehavior of Materials in a Tube Furnace with a Cone-Shaped Airflow Stabilizer, at 750 Degrees C

[ 101: 4.6.13]

6.2.1.2

Where the term limited-combustible is used in this standard, it shall also include the termnoncombustible . [ 101 : 4.6.13.2]

6.2.2 Limited-Combustible Material.

A material shall be considered a limited-combustible material where all the conditions of 6.2.2.1 and6.2.2.2 , and the conditions of either 6.2.2.3 or 6.2.2.4 , are met. [ 101 : 4.6.14]

6.2.2.1

The material shall not comply with the requirements for noncombustible material in accordance with6.2.1 [ 101 : 4.6.14.1].

6.2.2.2

The material, in the form in which it is used, shall exhibit a potential heat value not exceeding 3500Btu/lb (8141 kJ/kg) where tested in accordance with NFPA 259 . [ 101 : 4.6.14.2]

6.2.2.3

The material shall have the structural base of a noncombustible material with a surfacing not exceedinga thickness of 1 ⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) where the surfacing exhibits a flame spread index not greater than 50when tested in accordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristicsof Building Materials, or ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics ofBuilding Materials . [ 101 : 4.6.14.3].

6.2.2.4*

The material shall be composed of materials that, in the form and thickness used, neither exhibit a flamespread index greater than 25 nor evidence of continued progressive combustion when tested inaccordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials, or ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials,and shall be of such composition that all surfaces that would be exposed by cutting through the materialon any plane would neither exhibit a flame spread index greater than 25 nor exhibit evidence ofcontinued progressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or ANSI/UL 723.[ 101 : 4.6.14.4]

6.2.2.5

Where the term limited-combustible is used in this standard, it shall also include the termnoncombustible . [ 101 : 4.6.14.5]



SR-3_A.6_annex_text.docx

* A material that, in the form in which it is used and under the conditions anticipated, will notignite, burn, support combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected to fire or heat


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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The NFPA Manual of Style does not allow references to standards or codes in definitions becausedefinitions are not enforceable. This standard has now followed the lead of other codes andstandards, like NFPA 101 and NFPA 5000 moved the definitions. Adding a new subsection to thesection on building construction was the most logical place to locate this information. This materialhas been extracted from NFPA 101 so that the two documents are more likely to continue to matchin future editions.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 36-NFPA 75-2014 [New Section after 6.1]


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SR‐3, Annex material

A.6.2 The provisions of Section 6.2 do not require inherently noncombustible materials to be tested in order to be classified as noncombustible materials.

A.6.2.1(1) Examples of such materials include steel, concrete, masonry, and glass.

A.6.2.2.4 Materials subject to increase in combustibility or flame spread index beyond the limits herein established through the effects of age, moisture, or other atmospheric condition are considered combustible.


6.1.1.1

The building construction requirements in 6.1.1 shall be permitted to be modified where aperformance-based risk analysis assessment , as outlined in Chapters Chapter 4, and 6 , demonstratesthat alternate building construction types can be used identifies that an alternative means of constructionis acceptable .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision clarifies that the allowance to consider alternative means of construction is basedon the risk assessment permitted in Chapter 4.

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6.1.3.6

Under the following conditions, the fire separation requirements of 6.1.3through 6.1.3.4 shall bepermitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based risk analysis assessment as outlined inChapters Chapter 4 and 5 :

(1) The anticipated fire exposures are documented.

(2) Alternate forms of fire separation are provided based on the anticipated fire exposures.




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This section has been revised so as to exclude 6.1.3.5 from the exception. Federal, State andlocal building codes are not intended to be ignored because of a fire risk assessment per NFPA 75.It has been further clarified that this allowance is to be based on the risk assessment detailed inChapter 4.

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6.2.2

A risk analysis as outlined in Chapter 4 shall be used to identify the need for protective featuresidentified in 6.1.2 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

Fire protection should be as required by NFPA 75 with exceptions based on a fire riskassessment where such exception are specifically permitted by NFPA 75. This is resolved bydeleting the section in its entirety.

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Second Revision No. 18-NFPA 75-2015 [ Sections 6.3.2, 6.3.3 ]

6.3.3*

A structural floor where an information technology equipment ITE system is located or that supports araised floor installation shall incorporate provisions for drainage from domestic water leakage, sprinkleroperation, coolant leakage, to allow for removal of leaks from chilled water, heating water, steamcondensate, domestic water, liquid coolants, or water from sprinklers or fire-fighting operations.

6.3.3.1*

One or more of the following methods shall be used for liquid removal:

(1) Floor drain(s)

(2) Liquid containment with removal pumps

(3) Alternate methods as approved by the AHJ

6.3.3.2*

Underfloor spaces shall be provided with a leak detection system where any utility fluids or computerauxiliary cooling fluids are piped into the ITE room or are capable of entering the room from adjoiningareas.

6.4.2

Where an alternate solution, such as containment with leak detection, is provided, the drainagerequirements in 6.3.36.3.2 shall be permitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based riskanalysis as outlined in Chapters 4 and 5.



SR_18_text.docx

SR-18_A.6.3_annex_text.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision identifies specific methods that can be used to remove leakage in the structural floor.The first revision text made this a consideration that could be evaluated as part of the risk basedapproach of the standard. This change removes that allowance but specifies the type of alternativesthe committee had in mind and provides additional annex material to assist the user.

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Substitutionary Task Group Work

6.3.2*

A structural floor where an information technology equipment

system is located or that supports a raised floor installation

shall incorporate provisions to allow for removal of leaks from

chilled water, heating water, steam condensate, domestic

water, liquid coolants, water from sprinklers or fire‐fighting

operations.

6.3.2.1* One or more of the following methods shall be used for liquid

removal:

(1) Floor drain(s).

(2) Liquid containment with removal pumps.

(3) Alternate methods as approved by AHJ.

6.3.2.2* Underfloor spaces shall be provided with a leak

detection system where any utility fluids or computer auxiliary

cooling fluids are piped into the information technology

equipment room or are capable of entering the room from

adjoining areas.

A6.3.2

In multistoried buildings, the floor above the information technology

equipment room should be made reasonably watertight to avoid water

damage to equipment. Any openings, including those for beams and

pipes, should be sealed to watertightness. Where drainage is installed

in an area containing an underfloor extinguishing system, provisions

should be made for maintaining the drain piping as a closed system

unless water is present. These provisions are required to ensure the

integrity of a gaseous extinguishing system and allow for maintenance

of the necessary concentration level. Because water will evaporate

from the standard plumbing trap, mineral oil or another substitute

should be considered.

A6.3.2.1

Some liquids may not be able to be safely drained to the building’s

sewer system. The facility should plan for remediation of the spilled

liquid especially in the case of heat transfer fluids for liquid cooled ITE.

A6.3.2.2

The leak detection system should be capable of generating a

silenceable supervisory signal upon sensor contact with water. The

system should continuously supervise all sensors and interconnecting

components for electrical continuity. It should also include a self‐test

capability.

SR-18, Annex material

A.6.3.2

In multistoried buildings, the floor above the information technology equipment room should be

made reasonably watertight to avoid water damage to equipment. Any openings, including those

for beams and pipes, should be sealed to watertightness. Where drainage is installed in an area

containing an underfloor extinguishing system, provisions should be made for maintaining the

drain piping as a closed system unless water is present. These provisions are required to ensure

the integrity of a gaseous extinguishing system and allow for maintenance of the necessary

concentration level. Because water will evaporate from the standard plumbing trap, mineral oil

or another substitute should be considered.

A.6.3.2.1

Some liquids may not be able to be safely drained to the building’s sewer system. The facility

should plan for remediation of the spilled liquid especially in the case of heat transfer fluids for

liquid cooled ITE.

A.6.3.2.2

The leak detection system should be capable of generating a silenceable supervisory signal upon

sensor contact with water. The system should continuously supervise all sensors and

interconnecting components for electrical continuity. It should also include a self-test capability.


7.1.2

Small work areas shall be permitted within the ITE room provided all the following conditions are met:

(1) Areas are not occupied on a full-time basis.

(2) Case furniture, including desks, is constructed of noncombustible material (e.g., metal). Theconstruction can include a high-pressure laminate veneer on the desktop.

(3) Space dividers and system furniture panels and chairs with upholstered assemblies exhibit amaximum rate of heat release not exceeding 80 kW and a maximum total heat release not exceeding25 MJ within the first 10 minutes of test when where tested in accordance with one of the following:

(a) ASTM E1537, Standard Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture

(b) California Technical Bulletin 133, Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for Use inPublic Occupancies

(4) Paper records, manuals, drawings, and all other combustible materials are stored in fully enclosednoncombustible cabinets or cases.

(5) The quantity of records, manuals, drawings, and all other combustible materials kept in the room arelimited to the absolute minimum required for essential and efficient operation.

(6) Trash receptacles, where provided, are shall be listed, noncombustible, and provided with tight-fitting or self-closing lids, and constructed of materials that are either noncombustible or meet a peak

heat release rate not exceeding 300 kW/m 2 where tested in accordance with ASTM E1354,Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using

an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter, at an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m 2 in the horizontalorientation .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision adds more practical and specific limitations on the types of trash receptaclespermitted to be used in these locations. NFPA 1 (Fire Code) and IFC both have incorporated therequirements that trash receptacles that meet the ASTM E1354 (cone calorimeter) heat releaserequirements proposed are shown to be acceptably safe and they are increasingly present.

ResponseMessage:



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8.1.4*

Enclosures of floor-standing equipment having external surfaces of combustible materials of such sizethat can contribute to the spread of an external fire shall have a flame spread index of 50 or less inaccordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of BuildingMaterials, or ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.

8.1.4.1

Equipment conforming to the requirements of UL 60950, Safety of Information Technology Equipment ,or ANSI/UL 62368-1, Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment — Part 1:Safety Requirements , shall be considered as meeting the requirements of 8.1.4 .

8.1.4.1

Equipment conforming to the requirements of ANSI/UL 60950, Safety of Information TechnologyEquipment; ANSI/UL 60950-1, Information Technology Equipment — Safety — Part 1: GeneralRequirements; or ANSI/UL 62368-1, Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment— Part 1: Safety Requirements, shall be considered as meeting the requirements of 8.1.4.




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision deletes all of 8.1.4.1 because it was redundant to 8.1.4.2, except that 8.1.4.2references an additional document (ANSI/UL 60950-1). Nothing is lost by making this change.

ResponseMessage:



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Second Revision No. 21-NFPA 75-2015 [ New Section after 8.2 ]

8.2.1* Acoustical Materials. (Reserved)



SR_21.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

There are still instances of acoustical material out in the field. The prior language in this sectionwas somewhat vague and unenforceable but an annex note has been added back into this sectionas a way to make the user aware that the added fire risk that acoustical materials can present is atleast acknowledged.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 8-NFPA 75-2014 [New Section after 8.2]


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8.2.1* Acoustical Materials (Reserved)

A.8.2.1 Acoustical Materials All sound deadening materials used in ITE rooms should be of such material and so arranged that it does not increase the potential of fire damage to equipment or the potential of fire propagation.


9.1.1.1

Information technology equipment ITE rooms and information technology equipment ITE areas located ina nonsprinklered building shall be provided with one or more automatic fire protection suppressionsystems as permitted by Chapter 9.

9.1.1.2

The requirement of 9.1.1.1 shall be permitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based fire riskanalysis assessment as outlined in Chapters Chapter 4 and 5 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The term fire protection has been revised to specify fire suppression, so that there is no confusionover what this section is referring to. Further, the language of 9.1.1.2 has been updated so as tobe consistent with similar terminology throughout the standard.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 26-NFPA 75-2014 [Sections 9.1.1.1, 9.1.1.2]


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9.1.1.3*

An automatic fire protection suppression system, as permitted by Chapter 9, shall be provided for theprotection of the area below a raised floor in an information technology equipment ITE room orinformation technology equipment ITE area where the area below the raised floor contains combustiblematerial other than the following what is permitted in 9.1.1.4 .

9.1.1.4

An automatic fire suppression system shall not be required for the protection of the area below a raisedfloor in an ITE room or ITE area where combustible material under the floor is limited to the following:

(1) Cables listed for plenum use

(2) Listed plenum communications raceways

(3) Listed equipment power cords up to 4.6 m (15 ft) each

(4) Cables installed in metallic raceways

(5) Installations in compliance with NFPA 70 , Section 300.22(C) of NFPA 70

(6) Listed cooling hoses



SR_20.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The term fire protection has been revised to specify fire suppression, so that there is no confusionover what this section is referring to. In addition, the current 9.1.1.3 has been broken into twosessions to make it clear that an area below a raised floor requires suppression when combustiblesare present. The only exception to that is now separated out into 9.1.1.4 which provides the list ofcombustible materials that are permitted to be present without triggering the need for firesuppression in the space.

ResponseMessage:


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9.1.1.4

The requirement of 9.1.1.2 shall be permitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based riskanalysis as outlined in Chapters 4 and 5 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The addition of the list of specific types of combustible material that are permitted in theunderfloor area without requiring suppression eliminates the need to have a risk assessmentspecified for this provision.

ResponseMessage:



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9.1.5

The requirement of 9.1.4 shall be permitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based fire riskanalysis assessment as outlined in Chapters 4 and 5 .




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Committee Statement

Committee Statement: This revision is intended to make the terminology consistent throughout the document.

Response Message:


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9.2.2*

Automatic detection equipment systems shall be installed to provide early warning of fireAutomaticdetection systems shall be installed in the following locations:

(1) At the ceiling level throughout the information technology equipment ITE area

(2) Below the raised floor of the information technology equipment ITE area containing cables

(3)

(4) In the return air stream where the above ceiling area is used as a return air plenum




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This use of the above ceiling space as a return air plenum can be present without aislecontainment. The addition of item 4 requires detection to be provided in the return air stream inthese instances and does so in a way that allows the designer to choose where in the return airstream to locate the detection.

ResponseMessage:


* In the exhaust/return air stream where aisle containment systems are used


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9.3.5

The requirement of 9.3.4 shall be permitted to be evaluated as part of the performance-based fire riskanalysis assessment as outlined in Chapters 4 and 5 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This section has been revised to use language that is consistent throughout the document inregards to a risk assessment.

ResponseMessage:



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11.3.7*

Signal wiring and cabling, including optical fiber cables, listed for general-purpose and riser use shall bepermitted in an air space below a raised floor installed in an air space below a raised floor shall be listed .

11.3.7.1

Where the air space below a raised floor is protected by an automatic fire suppression system, signalwiring and cabling listed for plenum, riser, and general-purpose use shall be permitted to be installedexposed to the airflow in the air space.

11.3.7.2

Where the air space below a raised floor is not protected by an automatic fire suppression system, onlysignal wiring and cabling listed for plenum use shall be permitted to be installed exposed to the airflow inthe air space.

11.3.7.3

Where the air space below a raised floor is not protected by an automatic fire suppression system,signal wiring and cabling listed for plenum, riser, and general-purpose use shall be permitted to beinstalled in metal raceways in the air space.

A.11.3.7

The installation of general-purpose and riser cables exposed to the airflow in the air space below araised floor is permitted only where the space is protected by an automatic fire suppression system.(See 9.1.1.3 .)



SR_27_Annex.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The requirement in 11.37 (formerly 10.3.8) conflicted with the action taken on FR 13. Therecommended text for 11.3.7, 11.3.7.1 and 11.3.7.3 correlates with the action taken on FR13.

ResponseMessage:



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SR‐27 Annex Material

A.11.3.7

See 9.1.1.3. The installation of general‐purpose and riser cables exposed to the airflow in the air space

below a raised floor is permitted only where the space is protected by an automatic fire suppression

system.


11.4.6.1*

An approved means shall be provided to disconnect power to all electronic equipment in the event of afire in the information technology equipment ITE room or in designated zones within the roomin amanner appropriate to the degree of risk identified by the risk assessment described in Chapter 4 andinstalled in accordance with NFPA 70 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision rejects changes from the first draft and reverts to current edition text. "Approvedalternative means" are already permitted to be used.

ResponseMessage:



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11.4.6.2*

There shall be an a similar approved means to disconnect the power to all dedicated HVAC systemsserving the room or designated zones in a manner appropriate to the degree of risk identified by the riskassessment described in Chapter 4 and installed in accordance with NFPA 70 .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision rejects changes from the first draft and reverts to current edition text. "Approvedalternative means" are already permitted to be used.

ResponseMessage:



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Second Revision No. 28-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 11.4.6.4.2 ]

11.4.6.4.2 Alternative Disconnecting Means.

Remote disconnecting controls shall not be required where all the following criteria are met:

(1) An approved procedure has been established and maintained for removing power and air movementwithin the room or zone.

(2) Qualified personnel are continuously available to meet advise emergency responders and toadvise instruct them of disconnecting methods.

(3) A smoke-sensing fire detection system is in accordance with Chapter 9.

(4) An approved fire protection system is in accordance with Chapter 9.

(5) Cables installed under a raised floor, other than branch circuit wiring and power cords, are installedin compliance with NFPA 70, Sections 645.5(D)(2) or (3), or are in compliance with NFPA 70,Sections 300.22(C), 725.154(A), 770.113(C), and Table 770.154(A); Section 800.113(C) and Table800.154(A); or Section 820.113(C) and Table 820.154(A) .




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

It is possible for a person to satisfy the need to direct operation of disconnecting means withoutbeing a “qualified person,” as defined in the NEC. What is required is only the knowledge of the useof the approved disconnecting means. This use can be directed from off-site as effectively as fromon-site. With today’s remote monitoring capabilities and ability to communicate with emergencyresponders, the presence of qualified personnel at thousands of facilities is not necessary. Thehistorically low, almost non-existent need to use the disconnecting means does not justify the physicalpresence of qualified personnel 24 x 7. In addition to access to a knowledgeable person via a methodof communication (i.e., telephone, intercom, internet or radio), emergency instructions, binders,diagrams, labels, awareness training and orientation for emergency responders, as agreed to by theAuthority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) provide adequate assistance to emergency responders.

Revised item (5) to simplify that the NEC must be followed rather than to reference to so manydifferent sections.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 13-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. 11.4.6.4.2]


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Second Revision No. 31-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. A.1.2 ]

Global SR-34

A.1.2

This standard does not cover installation of ITE and ITE areas that can be made without specialconstruction or protection. It can, however, be used as a management guide for the installation ofelectrically powered mechanical ITE, small tabletop or desktype units, and ITE.

The strategic importance placed on ITE and ITE areas by the user is vitally tied to uninterruptedoperation of the system. Consequently, by the partial or entire loss of this equipment, an entire operationof vital nature could be temporarily paralyzed.

Not to be overlooked are the one-of-a-kind information technology systems. These are thecustom-made models that are designed to perform specific tasks. Replacement units for this type ofequipment are not available, and the probability of the existence of duplicate facilities, which could beused to perform vital operations in the event that the one-of-a-kind systems are partially or totallyimpaired by a fire, is remote.

The prescriptive requirements of this standard are intended to provide a minimum level of fire protectionfor information technology equipment ITE and facilities. As technology changes, information technologyfacilities might have varying sizes, equipment density, equipment cooling arrangements, physicalseparations, different numbers of users served by a single facility, and other characteristics. The fire riskanalysis assessment required by Chapter 4 is intended to reveal any causes that justify modification ofthe prescriptive requirements of this standard for a specific facility.




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This revision adds back in the useful annex material that existed in the previous edition andshould be retained. The new paragraph addresses the new uses of the risk assessment andperformance based design which are new to the document.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 41-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. A.1.2]


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Second Revision No. 16-NFPA 75-2015 [ Sections A.9.2.2, A.9.2.2(3) ]

Global SR-34


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A.9.2.2


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The detection system selection process should evaluate the ambient environmental conditions indetermining the appropriate device, location, and sensitivity. In high airflow environments, air-samplingdetection devices should be considered.

The following outline provides smoke detector sensitivity and spacing guidance for protection of ITE inhigh airflow areas:

General.

For smoke detection systems to detect products of combustion, the products must travel from thesource to a sensor or port and arrive there in sufficient density to be detectable.

Products of combustion follow forced air streams early in the development of a fire, or overheatcondition where the influence of mechanical systems is greater than the buoyant forces of the fire oroverheat condition. Detection system sensors or ports installed in the paths of cooling air exhaust fromthe cooled equipment can be expected to respond to a small fire in the equipment sooner than sensorsor ports located outside of the ventilation air envelope. To be effective, the detection equipment installedwithin the ventilation air envelope should be suitable for the temperatures, air velocities, and otherconditions present. If suitable detection equipment cannot be installed within the exhaust ventilation airenvelope, a fire in the cooled equipment should be expected to grow to a size at which its energy issufficient to overcome the mechanical forces of the HVAC containment system.

In the presence of aisle containment systems used to enhance the effectiveness of cooling ITE, sensorsor ports located in hot aisles or in the above ceiling plenum might be effective.

Regardless, sensors or ports located on the ceiling in ITE areas are a basic requirement and contributeto effective detection over a broad range of ITE area configurations.

Listed ITE has inherent fire-resistant characteristics. Failing or overheated components or connectionscan lead to smoldering events that produce smoke but tend to remain small due to the very low electricalvoltages present at the board level in the ITE. Exceptions can occur where a source of energy externalto the ITE drives increasing involvement of the materials present. In such exceptional cases, flamingfires can result.

Automatic fire and smoke detection systems installed to detect smoldering events and/or flaming fires inITE areas are more effective in detecting flaming fires than smoldering events due to the respectiverelease rates of combustion products and the effects of forced air flow on the products of combustion.The greater the air flow, which dilutes and channels detectable products of combustion, the lesseffective will be the performance of the detection system. Damage or losses that could result fromsmoldering events or flaming fires in ITE prior to detection are likely to be greater in the presence ofgreater forced air flow due to the likely decrease in detection system performance.

Smoke Detection Systems for Very Early Warning . Where a smoke detection system is installed for theprimary purpose of summoning responsible people to the presence of a small ITE fire or electrical eventthat produces smoke, the system should be arranged with high sensitivity and close spacing to achieveresponse to low-density products of combustion suspended in air with reasonable stability and toleranceof the environment.

Smoke Detection Systems to Initiate Operation of HVAC Dampers or to Close Openings in Fire-RatedWalls . Where a smoke detection system is installed for the primary purpose of initiating operation ofdampers, shutters, doors, or other closures in the event of a fire in an ITE area, the system should bearranged with medium sensitivity and spacing less than listed spacing to assure the integrity offire-resistive barriers.

Smoke Detection Systems to Initiate Release of a Fire Suppression Agent . Where a smoke detectionsystem is installed for the primary purpose of initiating the release of a fire suppression agent into an ITEarea, the system should be arranged with low sensitivity, spacing less than listed spacing, and shouldinclude a form of logical confirmation of the presence of products of combustion to assure that a singleindication does not release the agent.

Sensitivity and Spacing Ranges . The following is guidance for sensitivity and spacing ranges fordifferent locations in high airflow areas:

(1) Smoke sensor and port spacing on ceilings in the presence of high air movement should follow therequirements of 17.7.6.3 of NFPA 72 .

(2) Where air changes per hour (ACH) in the room served by the ventilation system exceeds 60, and wherethe supply air is delivered to the room through a raised floor, smoke sensors or ports under the floormight not be effective in detecting a fire originating under the floor. They might, however, be effective in


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detecting a fire originating in an air-handling unit supplying air to the underfloor space.

(3) In applying the sensor or port spacing, it is recommended that sensors and ports be located at strategicpoints where smoke is likely to pass; for example, in hot air return streams and at return air registers.

(4) For sensors and ports installed in the exhaust/return air stream in hot aisles or above ceiling plenums,the spacing and sensitivities listed in Table A.9.2.2 should be used. The guidance in Table A.9.2.2comes partly from a study sponsored by the Fire Protection Research Foundation. That guidance isconservative because it is based on testing using airflow without recirculation into the volume beingstudied.

Table A.9.2.2 Recommended Sensitivity and Spacing of Smoke Sensors or Ports inExhaust/Return Air Streams in ITE Areas with High Air Flow

Intended Function Low ACH — Up to 30 High ACH — Greater Than 30

Sensitivity Spacing Sensitivity Spacing

Very early warning ≤ 0.2%/ft ≤ 200 ft 2 ≤ 0.1%/ft ≤ 100 ft 2

Operating dampers, doors, and shutters ≤ 1.5%/ft ≤ 400 ft 2 ≤ 0.75%/ft ≤ 200 ft 2

Suppression agent release > 2.5% ≤ 4%/ft ≤ 400 ft 2 > 1.5% ≤ 3%/ft ≤ 200 ft 2

Notes:

(1) See Fire Protection Research Foundation reports "Validation of Modeling Tools for Detection Designin High Air Flow Environments," and "Validation of Modeling Tools for Detection Design in High Air FlowEnvironments — Phase II,” and FM Global report "Experimental Data for Model Validation of SmokeTransport in Data Centers."

(2) It is essential that the user understand the material in A.9.2.2 prior to the application of therecommended sensitivity and spacing in this table.

A.9.2.2(3)

Products of combustion follow forced air streams early in the development of a fire or overheat conditionwhen the influence of mechanical systems is greater than the buoyant forces of the fire or overheatcondition. Detection system sensors or ports installed in the paths of cooling air exhaust from the cooledequipment can be expected to respond to a small fire in the equipment sooner than sensors or portslocated outside of the cooling air exhaust stream. To be effective, the detection equipment installed withinthe cooling air exhaust stream should be suitable for the temperatures, air velocities, and other conditionspresent. If suitable detection equipment cannot be installed within the cooling air exhaust stream, a fire inthe cooled equipment should be expected to grow to a size at which its energy is sufficient to overcomethe mechanical forces of the HVAC containment system.



SR_16_Annex_A.9.2.2.docx




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Committee Statement

Committee This annex section has been expanded upon to include useful guidance for the user based on


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Statement: the technical committee's experience and the results from the FPRF reports.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 15-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. A.9.2.2(3)]

Public Comment No. 16-NFPA 75-2014 [Sections A.9.2.2, A.9.2.2(3)]


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A.9.2.2 Smoke Detector Sensitivity and Spacing Guidance for Protection of IT Equipment in High Airflow Areas General For smoke detections systems to detect products of combustion, the products must travel from the source to a sensor or port and arrive there in sufficient density to be detectable. Products of combustion follow forced air streams early in the development of a fire, or overheat condition, when the influence of mechanical systems is greater than the buoyant forces of the fire or overheat condition. Detection system sensors or ports installed in the paths of cooling air exhaust from the cooled equipment can be expected to respond to a small fire in the equipment sooner than sensors or ports located outside of the ventilation air envelope. To be effective, the detection equipment installed within the ventilation air envelope should be suitable for the temperatures, air velocities and other conditions present. If suitable detection equipment cannot be installed within the exhaust ventilation air envelope, a fire in the cooled equipment should be expected to grow to a size at which its energy is sufficient to overcome the mechanical forces of the HVAC containment system. In the presence of aisle containment systems used to enhance the effectiveness of cooling ITE, sensors or ports located in hot aisles or in the above ceiling plenum may be effective. Regardless, sensors or ports located on the ceiling in ITE areas are a basic requirement and contribute to effective detection over a broad range of ITE area configurations. Listed ITE has inherent fire resistant characteristics. Failing or overheated components or connections may lead to smoldering events that produce smoke but tend to remain small due to the very low electrical voltages present at the board level in the ITE. Exceptions may occur when a source of energy external to the ITE drives increasing involvement of the materials present. In such exceptional cases, flaming fires may result. Automatic fire and smoke detection systems installed to detect smoldering events and/or flaming fires in ITE areas are more effective in detecting flaming fires than smoldering events due to the respective release rates of combustion products and the effects of forced air flow on the products of combustion. The greater the air flow, which dilutes and channels detectable products of combustion, the less effective will be the performance of the detection system. Damage or losses that may result from smoldering events or flaming fires in ITE prior to detection are likely to be greater in the presence of greater forced air flow due to the likely decrease in detection system performance.

Smoke Detection Systems for Very Early Warning Where a smoke detection system is installed for the primary purpose of summoning responsible people to the presence of a small ITE fire, or electrical event that produces smoke, the system should be arranged with high sensitivity and close spacing to achieve response to low density products of combustion suspended in air with reasonable stability and tolerance of the environment. Smoke Detection Systems to Initiate Operation of HVAC Dampers or to Close Openings in Fire Rated Walls Where a smoke detection system is installed for the primary purpose of initiating operation of dampers, shutters, doors or other closures in the event of a fire in an ITE area, the system should be arranged with medium sensitivity and spacing less than listed spacing to assure the integrity of fire resistive barriers. Smoke Detection Systems to Initiate Release of a Fire Suppression Agent Where a smoke detection system is installed for the primary purpose of initiating the release of a fire suppression agent into an ITE Area, the system should be arranged with low sensitivity, spacing less than listed spacing, and should include a form of logical confirmation of the presence of products of combustion to assure that a single indication does not release the agent. . Sensitivity and Spacing Ranges

(1) Smoke sensor and port spacing on ceilings in the presence of high air movement should follow the requirements of NFPA 72 section 17.7.6.3.

(2) Where air changes per hour (ACH) in the room served by the ventilation system exceeds 60, and where the supply air is delivered to the room through a raised floor, smoke sensors or ports under the floor may not be effective in detecting a fire originating under the floor. They may, however, be effective in detecting a fire originating in an air handling unit supplying air to the underfloor space.

(3) In applying the sensor or port spacing, it is recommended that sensors and ports be located at strategic points where smoke is likely to pass; for example, in hot air return streams and at return air registers.

(4) For sensors and ports installed in the exhaust/return air stream in hot aisles or above ceiling plenums, the spacing and sensitivities listed in Table A.9.2.2 should be used. The guidance in Table A.9.2.2 comes partly from a study sponsored by the Fire Protection Research Foundation. That guidance is conservative since it is based on testing using airflow without recirculation into the volume being studied.

Table A.9.2.2 Recommended Sensitivity and Spacing of Smoke Sensors or Ports in Exhaust/Return Air Streams in ITE Areas with High Air Flow

Intended Function

Low ACH ‐ Up To 30 High ACH ‐ Greater Than 30

Sensitivity Spacing Sensitivity Spacing

Very Early Warning

≤0.2%/ft. ≤200 sq. ft. ≤0.1%/ft. ≤100 sq. ft.

Operating Dampers, Doors & Shutters

≤1.5%/ft. ≤400 sq. ft. ≤0.75%/ft. ≤200 sq. ft.

Suppression Agent Release

>2.5% ≤4%/ft.

≤400 sq. ft. >1.5% ≤3%/ft. ≤200 sq. ft.

Note: See Fire Protection Research Foundation reports; XXX, YYY, and FM Global report ZZZ Note: It is essential that the user understand the preceding annex material prior to the application of the recommended sensitivity and spacing in this Table.

Second Revision No. 32-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. A.11.3.2 ]

A.11.3.2

It is recommended that premise transformers not be installed in the information technology equipmentarea.




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

The action on FR 23 deleted the undefined term “premise transformer”. The annex note is nolonger relevant to the text and should be deleted.

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 6-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. A.11.3.2]


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Second Revision No. 17-NFPA 75-2015 [ Chapter E ]

Global SR-34

Annex E Fire Detection for Information Technology Equipment IT Area Risks and Special Conditions

This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is included for informationalpurposes only.

Global SR-34

E.1 Introduction.

For fire detection systems to be effective in information technology (IT) ITE areas, the design andinstallation must respond to the special conditions and unusual risks present. The conventionalrequirements of NFPA 72 for fire detection systems might not provide effective early detection of fires inIT areas.

This standard permits equivalent solutions ( see Section 1.5 ) and alternative means ( see Section1.6 ) to achieve its purpose ( see Section 1.2 ). The standard recognizes the performance-basedapproach to determine equivalent solutions or development of acceptable alternative means ( seeChapter 5 ). The standard requires permits design of fire detection systems based on a fire riskassessment ( see Chapter 4 ).

These fire risk assessments consider the risk of specified losses and need to consider the likelihood offires ( i.e., ignition source and fuel ignited by location in the protected space) and the likely response ofthe selected detector(s) in the proposed location(s). A 2013 paper by Bukowski discusses the most likelyfires that might occur in data centers based on limited fire experience reported by a major, globaloperator as part of committee task group activities.

Recent research conducted by the Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) has produced draftpapers that seek to validate a fire dynamics simulator (FDS) for use in predicting the response of smokedetectors to specific fires in data centers of the types discussed by Bukowski over a bracketing range ofventilation [FPRF 2014a] and that examine the response of typical detectors and locations to these firesfor typical data center configurations [FPRF 2014b]. These FPRF papers are not yet final and have notbeen made public. It is anticipated that they will be used as the basis for prescriptive detector siting rulesfor data centers configured and ventilated as modeled, and the validated model can be used to estimatedetector performance in configurations differing from those modeled.

E.2 Risk Assessment Objective(s).

The objective of a fire risk assessment is to minimize risk by mitigating the consequences of a fire orreducing its likelihood. Life safety ( i.e., preventing fatalities and reducing or eliminating injuries) isgenerally the prime objective of a fire risk assessment, but modern data centers operate with relativelyfew staff located mostly in the ancillary areas . with technicians that venture into the IT equipment (ITE)areas to install and service equipment. Life safety risk in the ancillary areas is similar to officeoccupancies, and the life safety risk in the equipment areas is very low; there are few occupants, andfires are rare and grow very slowly. The widespread practice of data mirroring virtually eliminates the riskof data loss, so the primary objective of data center fire protection is to mitigate the likelihood of loss ofcapacity to store and retrieve data. In a telecommunications facility, this translates to mitigating thelikelihood of loss of telecommunications services in fault-tolerant, distributed systems. Techniciansventure into the ITE areas only when necessary to install and service equipment. Life safety risk in theancillary areas is similar to office occupancies, and the life safety risk in the equipment areas is very low— there are few occupants, and fires are rare and grow very slowly. The widespread practice of datamirroring greatly reduces the risk of data loss. Thus, the primary objective of data center fire protection isto mitigate the likelihood of loss of capacity to process, store, and retrieve data.


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E.3 Design Fire Scenarios.

Fire experience in data centers shows that by far, the most common fires involve ancillary fuels inadjacent spaces such as meeting rooms, offices, and break rooms. The inclusion of fire and smokebarriers between these spaces and the ITE spaces, along with sprinklers and detectors as usuallyprovided in office occupancies, will prevent fires in these spaces from affecting ITE. Additionally, strictenforcement of housekeeping rules for ITE areas so that there are no , (even temporary) eventemporary, accumulations of combustibles (e.g., packaging materials, construction materials, orpapers/manuals) limits the risk of fires in ancillary areas affecting ITE.

The most common fire sources within the ITE areas most frequently involve power supplies, includingUPSs, because these contain some combustible materials, which can produce significant fault energies,and involve components that run hot since because they are operated near rated capacity for maximumelectrical efficiency. Physical separation of power supply equipment and associated power cables fromdigital equipment and data cables and the inclusion of overheat sensors to shut down power suppliesexceeding normal operating conditions can minimize fire risk to the facility from such equipment. Thenext most common fire scenarios involve HVAC or other support equipment located within ITE areas.The most likely fires originating in cooling equipment involve combustible filters and overheating fanmotors. Wire and cable fires are limited to power cables; these are the only cables that containsignificant fault energy and can run warm enough to permit combustion of the insulation or jacketmaterials. Most wire and cable insulation and jacketing will not support combustion unless heatedinternally or externally. Physical separation or specific protection such as enclosed cable trays and linearoverheat detection can result in adequate mitigation.

The least common fires are in the ITE itself, particularly where that equipment is listed to UL 60950,Safety of Information Technology Equipment , or Telcordia GR-63-CORE, Network Equipment BuildingSystem (NEBS)™ Requirements: Physical Protection , standards. The FPRF research [FPRF 2014b]provides insight into detector response for circuit board fires in equipment cabinets for typical equipmentconfigurations and bracketing ventilation rates.

E.4 General Rules for Typical Configurations References .

Bukowski, Richard W., “Risk Considerations for Data Center Fire Protection,” Proc 2013 SFPEEngineering Conference and Expo, Austin, TX, October 26–30, 2013.

For low ventilation rates [8 to 15 air changes per hour (ACH)], detection of fires occurring in the filters ormotors of CRAC units was found to be effective by detectors located on the CRAC outlet grille, under asubfloor (if present), within a ceiling plenum (if present), or within cold or hot aisle enclosures (ifpresent). The ceiling plenum location is effective at low sensitivity and normal spacing [9.1 m (30 ft)], butother locations require higher sensitivities and/or reduced spacing [4.6 m (15 ft) to 6.1 m (20 ft)]. At highventilation rates (30 to 150 ACH), detection of CRAC fires was difficult at any location, even at highsensitivities.

For low ventilation rates (8 to 15 ACH), detection of cable tray fires was found to be effective at highsensitivity and normal spacing [9.1 m (30 ft)] on the ceiling or within the ceiling plenum. Detection in thesubfloor or hot aisle enclosure requires reduced spacing of 4.6 m to 6.1 m (15 ft to 20 ft.) For highventilation rates (30 to 150 ACH), spacing must be further reduced to 3 m (10 ft).

For low ventilation rates (8 to 15 ACH), detection of fires within server cabinets (circuit boards in powersupplies, UPSs, or servers), detectors located on the ceiling over the hot aisle or within a ceiling plenumrequire reduced spacing [4.6 m (15 ft)]. For high ventilation rates (30 to 150 ACH), the same locationswere found to be somewhat less effective even at further reduced spacing of 3 m (10 ft.) Detectorslocated in subfloor and cold aisle locations were judged not effective for server cabinet fires.

These recommendations are valid for ceiling heights of 3 m to 6.1 m (10 ft to 20 ft), with or withoutceiling plenums or raised floors and with or without hot aisle enclosures. With 100 percent recirculationand minimal filtration detector performance at all recommended locations improved, permitting increasedspacing for the same performance.


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E.5 Using a Fire Dynamics Simulator for Specific Applications.

The general rules for detector placement described above should be used only for facilities that areconfigured like those analyzed, with similar ventilation rates. Where the configuration or operatingconditions are different, FDS analysis of the specific configuration and conditions is necessary.Modeling should utilize FDS version 6 or later. The FDS model for the facility should be constructedsimilar to the prototypical facility analyzed but to reflect the specifics of the facility analyzed, includingfan characteristics, duct sizes, and grille open areas. A grid size of 4 in. should be used for the modelmesh. Fire characteristics including heat release rates and yield fractions used in the FPRF analysisshould be used, but additional fire sources representative of unique characteristics of the facility shouldbe considered. Detector response curves developed for the FPRF study should be used to representthese classes of devices.

Facility analyses typically are performed in the design development stage before the facility is built.However, due diligence on the resulting design might include a verification of the design analysis afterthe facility is complete. This could be done by extracting, from the FDS output, ventilation air velocitiesat key locations and comparing them to measurements taken during facility commissioning. This wouldprovide a quality check on the analysis and permit adjustments to be made to detector locations orsensitivities if significant differences are identified.



SR_17_Annex_E.docx




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Committee Statement

CommitteeStatement:

This annex section has been revised to be shortened and coordinated better with the work of toenlarge the detection guidance from what was included in the first draft (also see SR-16).

ResponseMessage:

Public Comment No. 17-NFPA 75-2014 [Chapter E]




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Annex E Fire Detection for IT Area Risks and Special Conditions E.1 Introduction For fire detection systems to be effective in information technology (IT) areas, the design and installation must respond to the special conditions and unusual risks present. The requirements in NFPA 72 for fire detection systems might not provide effective early detection of fires in IT areas. This standard permits equivalent solutions (see Section 1.5) to achieve its purpose (see Section 1.2). The standard recognizes the performance‐based approach to determine equivalent solutions (see Chapter 5). The standard permits design of fire detection systems based on a fire risk assessment (see Chapter 4). These fire risk assessments consider the risk of specified losses and need to consider the likelihood of fires (ignition source and fuel ignited by location in the protected space) and the likely response of the selected detector(s) in the proposed location(s). A 2013 paper by Bukowski discusses the most likely fires that might occur in data centers based on limited fire experience reported by a major, global operator as part of committee task group activities. E.2 Risk Assessment Objective(s) The objective of a fire risk assessment is to minimize risk by mitigating the consequences of a fire or reducing its likelihood. Life safety (preventing fatalities and reducing or eliminating injuries) is generally the prime objective of a fire risk assessment, but modern data centers operate with relatively few staff located mostly in the ancillary areas. Technicians venture into the IT equipment (ITE) areas only when necessary to install and service equipment. Life safety risk in the ancillary areas is similar to office occupancies, and the life safety risk in the equipment areas is very low; there are few occupants, and fires are rare and grow very slowly. The widespread practice of data mirroring greatly reduces the risk of data loss. Thus the primary objective of data center fire protection is to mitigate the likelihood of loss of capacity to process, store and retrieve data. E.3 Design Fire Scenarios Fire experience in data centers shows that by far, the most common fires involve ancillary fuels in adjacent spaces such as meeting rooms, offices, and break rooms. The inclusion of fire and smoke barriers between these spaces and the ITE spaces, along with sprinklers and detectors as usually provided in office occupancies, will prevent fires in these spaces from affecting ITE. Additionally, strict enforcement of housekeeping rules for ITE areas so that there are no (even temporary) accumulations of combustibles (e.g., packaging materials, construction materials, or papers/manuals) limits the risk of fires in ancillary areas affecting ITE. The most common fire sources within the ITE areas most frequently involve power supplies, including UPSs, because these contain some combustible materials, which can produce significant fault energies, and involve components that run hot since they are operated near rated capacity for maximum electrical efficiency. Physical separation of power supply equipment and associated power cables from digital equipment and data cables and the inclusion of overheat sensors to shut down power supplies exceeding normal operating conditions can minimize fire risk to the facility from such equipment. The

next most common fire scenarios involve HVAC or other support equipment located within ITE areas. The most likely fires originating in cooling equipment involve (combustible) filters and overheating fan motors. Wire and cable fires are limited to power cables; these are the only cables that contain significant fault energy and can run warm enough to permit combustion of the insulation or jacket materials. Most wire and cable insulation and jacketing will not support combustion unless heated internally or externally. Physical separation or specific protection such as enclosed cable trays and linear overheat detection can result in adequate mitigation. The least common fires are in the ITE itself, particularly where that equipment is listed to UL 60950, Safety of Information Technology Equipment, or Telcordia GR‐63‐CORE, Network Equipment Building System (NEBS)™ Requirements: Physical Protection, standards. References

Bukowski 2013, Risk Considerations for Data Center Fire Protection, Proc 2013 SFPE Engineering

Conference and Expo Austin TX October 26‐30, 2013.

Second Revision No. 33-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. F.1.2.1 ]

F.1.2.1 ASTM Publications.

ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P. O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959.

ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, 2013 2014 .




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Committee Statement

Committee Statement: This revision updates the reference to the most up to date edition.

Response Message:

Public Comment No. 4-NFPA 75-2014 [Section No. F.1.2.1]


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Documents

Second Revision No. 34-NFPA 75-2015 [ Global Comment ]...Second Revision No. 5-NFPA 75-2015 [ Section No. 3.3.16.3 ] 3.3.16.3 Noncombustible Material. A material that, in the form