Fire_Suppression_and_Alarm_Systems Flashcards
(25 cards)
What factors determine the need for fire suppression or alarm systems?
Vulnerability of occupants, building scale, occupancy type, and local context.
Why do hotels typically require alarm and sprinkler systems?
Guests are unfamiliar with the building layout, increasing evacuation difficulty.
Why might a single-family home not require a sprinkler system?
Occupants are familiar with escape routes and the building layout.
Why are daycares and schools often required to have suppression systems?
Due to the vulnerability of the occupants (children).
What does an annunciator panel do?
Displays real-time alerts from sprinklers, smoke detectors, and pull stations for firefighters.
What are the two main functions of an alarm system?
Gather information and alert occupants (via audio/visual signals).
Why are visual alarms necessary?
To alert hearing-impaired individuals.
What is the purpose of an intercom system during a fire event?
To give occupants specific instructions about evacuation or shelter-in-place actions.
What is the typical coverage radius of a sprinkler head?
12 to 15 feet diameter.
What architectural condition can interfere with sprinkler coverage?
Obstructions like columns can create dead zones requiring additional heads.
What is the planning impact of using glass partitions in rated corridors?
Requires wall-washer sprinkler heads to compensate for unrated glazing.
What is the difference between a wet and dry sprinkler system?
Wet systems are filled with water; dry systems are filled with air and activate water flow when triggered.
When is a dry sprinkler system typically used?
In unheated spaces like parking garages where water might freeze.
What is a preaction sprinkler system?
A system that requires a verification step before water is released, used to protect sensitive items.
What is a deluge system and where is it used?
All heads activate simultaneously; used in high-risk areas like aircraft hangars or car showrooms.
Why can sprinkler water be more damaging than fire in some cases?
Water damages electronics, carpets, drywall, and causes slip hazards.
What type of fire suppression is used in server rooms?
Foam or chemical systems that remove oxygen instead of using water.
What is the purpose of a standpipe system?
Allows firefighters to connect hoses on upper floors without hauling them up stairs.
Where are standpipes typically located and why?
Near stairwells for vertical continuity and firefighter access.
What are the types of standpipe systems?
Dry (no water until connected) or wet (pressurized) and can supplement low-pressure sprinklers.
Why must space be allocated for a fire pump room?
Sprinkler systems require reliable water pressure which comes from pumps.
What might be needed to support a fire pump system?
Backup pump, generator, and possibly a backup generator.
What were rooftop water tanks used for?
To pressurize potable and fire suppression systems, and provide emergency water.
What is a major downside of rooftop tanks?
Exposure to weather causes maintenance issues and adds roof load.
