ELECTRICAL CODE INTERPRETATION
700 N. TRYON STREET CHAROLTTE, NC 28202
(704) 336-2831
SUBJECT:
Sprinklers in Electrical Rooms
CODE REFERENCE:
SUBMITTED BY:
110-26 (F) (1) (C)
Policy
EFFECTIVE DATE: 7/27/01 – Revised 6/01/07
PROBLEM: Sprinkler Heads in the Electrical Equipment Rooms
SOLUTION: In the past we have tried to be pro-active in preventing sprinkler protection
from flooding the electrical equipment due to activation from sources other than the
equipment.
For indoor installations, the dedicated space shall comply with the following:
Sprinkler protection shall be permitted for the electrical equipment where the installation
does not enter the dedicated space.
Dedicated Electrical Space The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment and
extending from the floor to a height of 6 ft (1.83 m) above the equipment or to the
structural ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedicated to the electrical installation. No
piping, ducts, or equipment foreign to the electrical installation shall be located in this
zone.
Foreign Systems The space equal to the width and depth of the equipment shall be kept
clear of foreign systems unless protection is provided to avoid damage from condensation,
leaks, or breaks in such foreign systems. This zone shall extend from the top of the
electrical equipment to the structural ceiling.
Suspended Ceilings A dropped, suspended, or similar ceiling that does not add strength to
the building structure shall not be considered a structural ceiling.
Properties installed under this policy will not be given priority Inspection or Plan Review if
they have activation from sources other than an electrical equipment fire.
July 27, 2001
APPROVED BY: GERALD HARVELL ELECTRICAL CPM
1.16