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Public Input No. 43-NFPA 101-2018 [ Global Input ]

1. Revise 12.7.14 to read as follows:

12.7.14 Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems. Integrated fire protection and life

safety systems shall be tested in accordance with 9.11.4.1.

2. Revise 13.7.14, 13.7.14.1 and 13.7.14.2(new) to read as follows:

13.7.14 Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems.13.7.14.1Integrated fire protection and life safety systems shall be tested in accordance with9.11.4.1.

13.7.14.2 Integrated fire protection and life safety systems in high-rise buildings shall betested in accordance with 9.11.4.2.

Additional Proposed Changes

File Name Description Approved

Issued_TIA_101-18-4_Final_-_TIA_101_18_4.pdf NFPA 101 TIA 101-18-4 (Log No. 1318)

Statement of Problem and Substantiation for Public Input

NOTE: This public input originates from Tentative Interim Amendment No. 101-18-4 (Log. 1318) issued by the Standards Council on December 6, 2017 and per the NFPA Regs., needs to be reconsidered by the Technical Committee for the next edition of the Document.

Substantiation. Often, in order for fire and life safety objectives to be met, interdependence on two or more fire protection and life safety systems is required. When that occurs, there is a fundamental expectation for integrated features to remain functional. Common sense has always dictated a need to verify the response of integrated features when individual systems are tested, but standards historically lacked guidance for such testing.

To fill that gap, NFPA 4 Standard for Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems Testing was developed and published in 2015 as an outgrowth of recommended practices that were previously established by NFPA 3. As a new standard that was derived from a recommended practice, the requirements of NFPA 4 have not yet been widely adopted and remain somewhat untested.

Nevertheless, in the just-completed cycle for the 2018 editions of NFPA 101 and NFPA 5000, NFPA 4 was proposed for adoption by reference in nearly all occupancy chapters with inconsistent results that can be attributed to at least two factors:1. The content of NFPA 4 was not consistently and adequately explained to all of the NFPA 101 and NFPA 5000technical committees that were asked to review these proposals and comments.2. The “one size fits all” approach to integrated testing currently used by NFPA 4 is well suited for complexsystems, but it is unnecessarily burdensome for testing of simple integrations, such as a sprinkler waterflow switchconnecting to a fire alarm system for alarm initiation and monitoring. For example, NFPA 4 always requires anintegrated test team and development of an integrated test plan that is carried out by an integrated test team,unless waived by the AHJ. It is understandable that some technical committees viewed mandatory references toNFPA 4 as excessive and rejected proposals that would have mandated compliance.

As the 2018 editions of NFPA 101 and NFPA 5000 currently stand, some occupancy chapters broadly reference NFPA 4 for all integrated systems. Others contain no reference to NFPA 4 at all, and still others reference NFPA 4 but modify how it is to be applied. These inconsistencies will lead to confusion among code users and code enforcers and could result in unsafe conditions. For example, omission of requirements for integrated testing in some 2018 edition chapters will essentially convey that it is unnecessary to test ANY integrated functions in new or existing occupancies regulated by chapters that do not contain such a requirement. This undermines the

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traditional common-sense minimum of making sure that even simple integrations must be tested to verify cause-effect functionality.

To deal with this issue, multiple NITMAMs to delete all references to integrated testing requirements and NFPA 4 were submitted and certified for consideration at the annual conference in Boston. However, rather than advancing these motions, the proponents agreed to support an alternate path of using TIAs to repair issues with the code text instead of deleting it.

The TIAs are the result of a collaborative effort that included fire alarm and fire sprinkler industry participation, among others. The approach can be summarized as follows:

1. Because of the complex interaction of systems needed to accomplish smoke control, new and existing buildings with smoke control systems will be required to comply with NFPA 4. This is entirely handled in Chapter 9.2. Because of the complex interaction of systems needed to accomplish safety objectives in high-rise buildings, new and existing high-rise buildings will be required to comply with NFPA 4. Note that new high-rise buildings are handled by Chapter 11. However, existing high-rise buildings had to be individually addressed in existing occupancy chapters since there is no central location in the codes where regulations are established for existing high-rise buildings.3. All other buildings and occupancies WILL NOT be required to follow NFPA 4.However, such other buildings and occupancies WILL be required to comply with a simple, prescriptive requirement ensuring that cause-effect relationships of integrated systems are verified when testing is conducted.

It is important to note that the approach suggested by this TIA correlates with code provisions that were adopted in the 2018 edition of the International Fire Code. Therefore, acceptance of this TIA will ensure that provisions in the 2018 editions of NFPA and ICC codes will be consistent with respect to integrated test requirements.

Emergency Nature. The standard contains an error or an omission that was overlooked during the regular revision process. The proposed TIA intends to offer to the public a benefit that would lessen a recognized (known) hazard or ameliorate a continuing dangerous condition or situation.

Although it is only necessary to satisfy one of the six possible TIA emergency nature criteria, this TIA satisfies two… 1. The standard contains an error or an omission that was overlooked during the regular revision process. Because some occupancy chapters in the 2018 (Chapters 15, 17, 29, 31, 32, 33, 38 and 39) omitted references to Chapter 9 for integrated testing and others did not, NFPA 101 and 5000 will essentially be conveying that it is unnecessary to test ANY integrated functions in new or existing occupancies regulated by the chapters that do not contain such a requirement. This undermines the traditional common-sense minimum of ensuring that simple integrations must be tested to verify cause-effect functionality. Although each technical committee is certainly authorized to oversee requirements for occupancies under its authority, it was probably unrecognized or overlooked that omitting a reference to Chapter 9 in some chapters, when such references appear in other chapters, conveys a message that testing of integrated features can be entirely ignored in some cases. Rather, it is believed that committees that chose to reject inclusion of a Chapter 9 reference for integrated testing did so for the purpose of rejecting NFPA 4, not basic common-sense tests to verify functionality of connected systems.2. The proposed TIA intends to offer to the public a benefit that would lessen a recognized (known) hazard or ameliorate a continuing dangerous condition or situation. It is essential to safety for fire protection and life safety systems, including integrated features, to function as designed. Should system interactions fail, dangerous conditions can certainly result. As indicated in Item 1 above, the inclusion of integrated test requirements for some occupancies but not others conveys that integrated testing is NEVER required in occupancies that don’t include a reference to Chapter 9. However, some technical committees reportedly rejected referencing Chapter 9 for integrated testing because of the connection to NFPA 4, not because they opposed the concept of verifying basic functionality of integrated features. The proposed TIA resolves this issue by establishing a minimum requirement for ensuring basic functionality of integrated features and only referencing NFPA 4 for complex systems associated with high-rise buildings and buildings with smoke-control systems.

Submitter Information Verification

Submitter Full Name: Tc On Saf-Axm

Organization: NFPA 101 TC on Assembly Occupancies

Street Address:

City:

State:


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Zip:

Submittal Date: Mon Mar 05 14:49:19 EST 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The committee reaffirms its action on the TIA.


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Life Safety Code

(SC 17-12-12 / TIA Log #1318)

Regulations Governing the Development of NFPA StandardsLife Safety Code

1. Revise 12.7.14 to read as follows:

2. Revise 13.7.14, 13.7.14.1 and 13.7.14.2(new) to read as follows:

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Public Input No. 393-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. 3.3.37.9 ]

3.3.37.9 Special Amusement Building.

A building or portion thereof that is temporary, permanent, or mobile and contains a device or ride systemthat conveys passengers or provides a walkway along, around, or over a course in any direction as a formof amusement, entertainment, or education and arranged so that the egress path is not readily apparentdue to visual or audio distractions or an intentionally confounded egress path, or is not readily available dueto the mode of conveyance through the building or structure. (SAF-AXM)


The revision addresses the use of portions of a building not being used a special amusement occupancy. This is typical when a attraction exits through a gift shop (mercantile). This would clarify that the mercantile area would not be required to meet the sections of 12.4.8. This is also supported by the existing code language contained in A.12.4.8 for special amusements contained in a exhibit hall.

The revision includes industry standard verbiage of "ride systems" and extends the use of special amusement to include entertainment or educational purposes.


Submitter Full Name: Joel Edwards

Organization: Reedy Creek Improvement District

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Tue Jun 26 19:15:21 EDT 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: FR-6696-NFPA 101-2018

Statement: The revision addresses the use of portions of a building not being used a special amusementoccupancy. This is typical when an attraction exits through a gift shop (mercantile). This would clarifythat the mercantile area would not be required to meet the requirements of 12.4.8. This is alsosupported by the existing code language contained in A.12.4.8 for special amusements contained inan exhibit hall.

The revision includes industry standard verbiage of "ride systems" and extends the use of specialamusement to include entertainment or educational purposes.


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Public Input No. 183-NFPA 101-2018 [ New Section after 3.3.166 ]

TITLE OF NEW CONTENT

Type your content here ...

3.3.166 Life Safety Floor Plan. A drawing or set of drawings that depict the floor plan(s), fire-resistivefeatures, occupant load, flow lines of accumulated occupant load routed to exits, and numerical comparisonof occupant load (in units of people) and exit capacity (in units of people) at each major egress feature andexit.


The term LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLAN currently exists in 2018 NFPA 101 Sections 12.4.1.4.3 and 13.4.1.4.3 relative to assembly occupancy life safety evaluations. However, LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLANS are needed for virtually all plans for construction (new work, additions, and renovations). A LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLAN is usually one of the first types of drawings that an AHJ will review to gain understanding of the building. LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLANS should be used for all occupancy classifications. If a designer cannot, or will not prepare a LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLAN, then he/she has not demonstrated his/her understanding of the building and of the means of egress system. This defined term can later be referenced by other occupancy chapters if the quality of building plans will be specified. An article in the NFPA Journal describes preparation of LIFE SAFETY FLOOR PLANS. Refer to "Exit Strategy" by Battalora and Sawyer, in NFPA Journal, July/August 2015.


Submitter Full Name: Raymond Battalora

Organization: The University of Texas at Austin - Fire Prevention Services

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Wed Jun 13 10:33:27 EDT 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: Life safety floor plans are adequately defined by the requirements of 12.4.1.4.3 and 13.4.1.4.3. It isnot clear what would constitute a "major egress feature." The addition of flow lines to plans could addfurther ambiguity.


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Public Input No. 231-NFPA 101-2018 [ New Section after 12.2.2.2.10 ]

12.2.2.2.11 Emergency locking systems complying with 7.2.1.6.4 shall be permitted.


This proposal is based on acceptance of new Section 7.2.6.1.4 Emergency Locking Systems.

Chapters 14, 15, 16, 17, 38, and 39 have requirements for locking doors under lockdown conditions. Doors in auditoriums, cafeterias, and gymnasiums (and other spaces) are likely candidates for some form of emergency door locking functions. The proposed new section 7.2.1.6.4 Emergency Locking Systems could be applied safely to doors in assembly occupancies.

Related Public Inputs for This Document

Related Input Relationship

Public Input No. 216-NFPA 101-2018 [New Section after 7.2.1.6.3]


Submitter Full Name: Keith Pardoe

Organization: Pardoe Consulting LLC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Mon Jun 18 14:36:58 EDT 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The proposed new 7.2.1.6.4 was not accepted by the TC on Means of Egress.


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Public Input No. 347-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. 12.2.5.5.1 ]

12.2.5.5.1*

The required clear width of aisle accessways shall be determined by provisions of 12.2.5.5.1.1 betweenrows of seating

shall be determined as follows:and by 12.2.5.5.1.2 where the aisle accessway is between seats, either in a row or grouped otherwise, anda railing:

12.2.5.5.1.1

(1) Horizontal measurements shall be made, between vertical planes, from the back of one seat to thefront of the most forward projection of the seat immediately behind it.

(2) Where the entire row consists of automatic- or self-rising seats that comply with ASTM F851, StandardTest Method for Self-Rising Seat Mechanisms, the measurement shall be permitted to be made withthe seats in the up position.

12.2.5.5.1.2*

(1) Horizontal measurements shall be made between the vertical planes of the front of the seat, in thedown position if self rising, and any railing in front of the seating where the aisle accessway is in front of theseat.

(2) Horizontal measurements shall be made between the vertical plane of the rear of the seat back and therailing or seating deck riser, whichever is closer to the back of the seat, where the aisle accessway isbehind the seat.


This addresses the aisle accessway width applicable to the front row of conventional row seating and to other configurations of seating where the aisle accessway is behind seating, not arranged in conventional rows. The latter could occur in lecture halls where a continuous, narrow table is provided in front of individual seats which are approached from an aisle accessway behind the seats. The same configuration, without the continuous table, could occur especially in the front of a balcony or elevated grandstand where seats are placed immediately behind the guard railing at the front of the balcony or grandstand and such seats, for example arranged in groups of two, are accessed from the rear so that other people do not walk in front of these seats (which could rotate for convenient access and egress) nor does anyone have to walk immediately adjacent to the railing at the front of the balcony or grandstand. This creates both a safer situation relative to falls over sightline-constrained railings and a better viewing experience for those in the seats located immediately adjacent to the sightline constrained railing. Such a railing, being closer (horizontally) to such people can be at regular guard height (42 inches or 1067 mm) with no disruption to their sightline due to their eye height being about 46 inches (1170 mm) above the seating deck surface where they are seated.



Public Input No. 351-NFPA 101-2018 [Section No. A.12.2.5.5.1]

Public Input No. 417-NFPA 101-2018 [Section No. 12.2.11.1.1]


Submitter Full Name: Jake Pauls

Organization: Jake Pauls Consulting Services

Affiliation: Self

Street Address:

City:

State:


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Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision responds to PI-347 and revises the suggested language by deleting "of the seat" in12.2.5.5.1 such that the measurement applies whether the aisle accessway is located in front of orbehind the row of seats.


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12.2.11.1.1* Sight Line–Constrained Rail Heights.

Unless subject to the requirements of 12.2.11.1.2, a fasciae or railing system complying with the guardrequirements of 7.2.2.4, and having a height of not less than 26 in. (660 mm), shall be provided where thefloor or footboard elevation is more than 30 in. (760 mm) above the floor or the finished ground level below,and where the fasciae or railing system would otherwise interfere with the sight lines of immediatelyadjacent seating. Provision of a fasciae or railing system shall not be construed as satisfying the need for aguard as required where there is more than a 30-inch (760 mm) drop below the foor or footboardellevation; other measures shall be taken to prevent injurious falls at such locations that are equivalent inperformance to providing a 42-inch (1065 mm) guard.


26-inch high railings are not functional guards, especially in occupancy settings such as some sport events and certain concerts, both characterized by exuberance of one or more of the occupants in the vicinity of the balcony or elevated grandstand front, including those in rows behind the first row of seating.

A separate proposal provides an alternative method of designing seating and aisle accessways at the front of seating areas that obviates the need for lower railings. This is one solution to the problem of inadequate rail heights in assembly facilities that does not require reduction of the guard height below the minimum 42 inches otherwise required. it is Public Input 347.



Public Input No. 347-NFPA 101-2018 [Section No. 12.2.5.5.1]




Affiliation: Self

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The proposed revision mandates "other provisions shall be taken to prevent injurious falls" butprovides no criteria for determining compliance. There might not be a "one size fits all" solution to theproblem given the wide variety of venues (stadiums, arenas, performing arts theaters, etc.) andoccupant characteristics. The committee intends to seek additional research via the Fire ProtectionResearch Foundation to provide data on injurious falls over railings in assembly venues to supportany future code revisions.


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Public Input No. 77-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. 12.3.5.1 ]

12.3.5.1

The following assembly occupancies shall be protected throughout by an approved, supervised automaticsprinkler system in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1):

(1) Dance halls

(2) Discotheques

(3) Nightclubs

(4) Bars

(5) Restaurants

(6) Assembly occupancies with festival seating


NFPA 101 Chapter 12 thresholds for fire sprinkler protection in assembly occupancies is inconsistent with the IFC and the IBC. Both the IBC/IFC require fire sprinkler protection of A-2 occupancies and A-2 occupancies include restaurants and bars. While there is no mandate or intent for correlation with IBC/IFC, the reality is that 101 is adopted in most jurisdictions with the IBC and/or IFC. When the IFC/IBC and 101 do not come close to matching on such an important issue, it creates conflicts and it is a poor reflections on model codes as design professionals, contractors and owners then question the credibility of the both codes.

In addition, the current language in 101 is highly problematic for AHJ's to enforce. We sprinkler nightclubs, but now not bars, and never restaurants. The transition line from a bar, to a nightclub, to a restaurant is highly questionable. Even applying the current language to a "Station Nightclub" type environment, I could see an owner fighting the AHJ saying we are not a true "nightclub." "Nightclub" implies a dancing disco type environment that could potentially not include "Station Nightclub" type environment.

With the risk factors in assembly occupancies, even restaurants and bars, why do we not want to error on the side of fire sprinkler protection in new construction in these assembly occupancies, especially when the IFC and IBC already requires fire sprinkler protection?


Submitter Full Name: Anthony Apfelbeck

Organization: Altamonte Springs Building/Fire Safety Division

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Fri Mar 30 14:06:56 EDT 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: NFPA 101 Chapter 12 thresholds for automatic sprinkler protection in assembly occupancies isinconsistent with the IFC and the IBC. Both the IBC/IFC require sprinkler protection of A-2occupancies, which include restaurants and bars. While there is no mandate or intent for correlationwith IBC/IFC, the reality is that 101 is adopted in most jurisdictions with the IBC and/or IFC. When theIFC/IBC and 101 do not come close to matching on such an important issue, it creates conflicts and itis a poor reflections on model codes as design professionals, contractors and owners then questionthe credibility of the both codes.


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In addition, the current language in 101 is highly problematic for AHJ's to enforce. We sprinklernightclubs, but now not bars, and never restaurants. The transition line from a bar, to a nightclub, to arestaurant is highly questionable. Even applying the current language to a "Station Nightclub" typeenvironment, I could see an owner fighting the AHJ saying we are not a true "nightclub." "Nightclub"implies a dancing disco type environment that could potentially not include "Station Nightclub" typeenvironment.


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12.4.6.11.3

Scenery and stage properties not separated from the audience by proscenium opening protection shall beof noncombustible materials, limited-combustible materials, or fire-retardant–treated wood or fire-retardantcoated wood .


Fire-Retardant Coatings have the ability to comply with this code and should not be excluded for stage installations.


Submitter Full Name: Kathleen Newman

Organization: Firetect

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: Fire retardant coatings are not equivalent to fire-retardant treated wood. Related PI's in Ch. 8 werenot accepted.


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12.4.6.11.4

In theaters, motion picture theaters, and television stage settings, performance halls and music clubvenues, with or without horizontal projections, and in simulated caves and caverns of foamed plastic, anysingle fuel package shall have a heat release rate not to exceed 100 kW where tested in accordance withone of the following:

(1) ANSI/UL 1975, Standard for Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purposes

(2) NFPA 289 using the 20 kW ignition source



101_A2017_PC217.pdf NFPA 101 Public Comment No. 217


NOTE: This Public Input appeared as "Reject but Hold" in Public Comment No. 217 of the A2017 Second Draft Report for NFPA 101 and per the Regs. at 4.4.8.3.1.

This provision should not be limited to theater and television hall exposures for obvious reasons.


Submitter Full Name: TC ON SAF-AXM

Organization: NFPA TC on Assembly Occupancies

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Tue Feb 06 15:49:50 EST 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: This provision should not be limited to theater and television hall exposures for obvious reasons. TheFR revises the PI language by making the requirement applicable to stages and platforms in anyassembly occupancy.


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Public Comment No. 217-NFPA 101-2016 [ Section No. 12.4.6.11.4 ]

12.4.6.11.4

Standard for Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purposes

Statement of Problem and Substantiation for Public Comment

Related Item


Submitter Full Name:

Organization:

Affilliation:

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date:

Committee Statement

CommitteeAction:

Resolution:

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

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Public Input No. 384-NFPA 101-2018 [ New Section after 12.4.8 ]

Taskgroup

I am requesting the creation of a taskgroup to review the provisions for new and existing assembly chapterson special amusement buildings.


The provisions for new and existing special amusement building have not changed significantly since the New Jersey Haunted Castle fire. New technologies in themed entertainment, fire suppression, detection, and building automation have significantly enhanced the offerings for both entertainment companies and code professionals to provide a very unique experience and while also enforcing stringent life safety requirements. I have submitted several public inputs to this code cycle to begin a review of this section. I ask technical committee to explore a performance based option specific to special amusement buildings when the prescriptive requirements of the life safety code are not able to be met. I would also ask the technical committee to consider if special amusements should be moved to Chapter 11, Special Structures and reorganize the chapter to a format similar to other occupancy chapters. For example:

12.4.8.1 General Requirements12.4.8.2 Means of Egress Requirements12.4.8.3 Protection ...

For the reasons noted here, I respectfully request a task group be developed to look into these issues and consider all public inputs related to special amusements buildings. I would volunteer my time to serve as a task group member and will help seek out other professionals in the entertainment industry familiar with these buildings to provide input.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: No revision has been proposed in this PI. A task group has been established to further review thedefinition of and requirements for special amusement buildings as requested by the submitter. Thetask group is to evaluate the challenges posed by rides, including delineation between the specialamusement building and the ride system, in which occupants are constrained by the ride mechanism,among other criteria (e.g., sprinklers, alarms, detection, illumination, etc.).


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Public Input No. 78-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. 12.4.8 ]

12.4.8* Special Amusement Buildings.

12.4.8.1* General.

Special amusement buildings, regardless of occupant load, shall meet the requirements for assemblyoccupancies in addition to the requirements of 12.4.8, unless the special amusement building is amultilevel play structure that is not more than 10 ft (3050 mm) in height and has aggregate horizontal

projections not exceeding 160 ft2 (15 m2).

12.4.8.2* Automatic Sprinklers.

Every special amusement building, other than buildings or structures not exceeding 10 ft (3050 mm) in

height and not exceeding 160 ft2 (15 m2) in aggregate horizontal projection, shall be protected throughoutby an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed and maintained in accordance withSection 9.7.

12.4.8.3 Temporary Water Supply.

Where the special amusement building required to be sprinklered by 12.4.8.2 is movable or portable, thesprinkler water supply shall be permitted to be provided by an approved temporary means.

12.4.8.4 Smoke Detection.

Where the nature of the special amusement building is such that it operates in reduced lighting levels, thebuilding shall be protected throughout by an approved automatic smoke detection system in accordancewith Section 9.6.

12.4.8.5 Alarm Initiation.

Actuation of any smoke detection system device shall sound an alarm at a constantly attended location onthe premises.

12.4.8.6 Illumination.

Actuation of the automatic sprinkler system, or any other suppression system, or actuation of a smokedetection system having an approved verification or cross-zoning operation capability shall provide for bothof the following:

(1) Increase in illumination in the means of egress to that required by Section 7.8

(2) Termination of any conflicting or confusing sounds and visuals

12.4.8.7 Exit Marking.

12.4.8.7.1

Exit marking shall be in accordance with Section 7.10.

12.4.8.7.2

Floor proximity exit signs shall be provided in accordance with 7.10.1.6.

12.4.8.7.3*

In special amusement buildings where mazes, mirrors, or other designs are used to confound the egresspath, approved directional exit marking that becomes apparent in an emergency shall be provided.

12.4.8.8 Interior Finish.

Interior wall and ceiling finish materials complying with Section 10.2 shall be Class A throughout.


Suggest the TC establish a Task Group to look at the Special Amusement provisions. These code provisions have not been modified much since they were first included. The environment for these rides in many parks has dramatically changed since these provisions went into NFPA 101. Riders are now mostly restrained, they are unable to egress even if the ride stops, smoke control is not considered but might be appropriate, specific training and tasks might need to be evaluated and assigned to the ride staff, in some cases, a mandate to utilize a performance based design might be appropriate.


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This PI does not suggest specific code language as the proponent of this PI does not have the specific expertise to suggest such language in special amusement buildings. However, this proponent is of the opinion, and has had first hand experience with some of these new rides, to realize that the current code provisions of NFPA 101 for special amusement do need to be reviewed and modified to meet the demands of a new risk environment.


Submitter Full Name: Anthony Apfelbeck

Organization: Altamonte Springs Building/Fire Safety Division

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Submittal Date: Fri Mar 30 14:39:38 EDT 2018

Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: No revision has been proposed in this PI. A task group has been established to further review thedefinition of and requirements for special amusement buildings as requested by the submitter. Thetask group is to evaluate the challenges posed by rides, including delineation between the specialamusement building and the ride system, in which occupants are constrained by the ride mechanism,among other criteria (e.g., sprinklers, alarms, detection, illumination, etc.).


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Public Input No. 350-NFPA 101-2018 [ New Section after 12.4.8.3 ]

Detection, Alarm, and Communication Requirements

X.1 General. Special amusement buildings shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system inaccordance with Section 9.6 and this section.

X.2 Initiation . Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by manual means in accordance with9.6.2, by detection devices or detection systems as required by 12.4.8.4, and by means of water flow alarmfrom the sprinkler system required by 12.4.8.2

X2.1 Notification.

A.X2.1 Notification in special amusement buildings should be considered carefully depending on theoperation of the special amusement. Voice announcements in accordance with Section 12.3.4.3.3 are therequired method. However, automatically transmitted evacuation instructions may not be appropriate insome rides when occupants are confined to a ride vehicle and unable to self-evacuate. In order to avoidconfusion, manual voice announcements from the ride operator may be preferable to pre-recordedevacuation instructions for some rides. See [New Section on Emergency Action Plans] and A.4.2.3.

X2.1 An automatic means for sounding the general evacuation alarm shall be provided for when theconstantly attended location is not staffed.

A.X2.1 Special amusement buildings that contain rides tend be occupied after operating hours bymaintenance staff. Afterhours maintenance work may talk place along the ride track or in an attachedmaintenance bay where ride vehicles are moved on/off spur tracks. When no ride operator is located at theconstantly attended location to receive alarm signals, a means of automatically sounding the generalevacuation signal should be provided for afterhours occupants. This can be accomplished by requiring theride operator to acknowledge a fire alarm signal on the remote annunciator within a pre-determined time (forexample, 15 seconds). Afterhours, where no ride operator is present, the general evacuation alarm willsound when the alarm is not acknowledged at the remote annunciator.

X2.2 Positive alarm sequence in accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted where approved by theauthority having jurisdiction.


The provisions for smoke detection in special amusement buildings were added to NFPA 101 in 1997. Changes were made in 2000 and the current requirements went into effect in 2003. This proposed addition clarifies that a fire alarm system is required. The requirements found in section 12.4.8.4 Smoke Detection and 12.4.8.2 Automatic Sprinklers support this inclusion.

Since the addition of the special amusement chapters in 1997 there have been no major updates to this section of the code. However there have been substantial changes to fire alarm and building technologies. Similarly, special amusement buildings and the entertainment industry have embraced many new technologies such as digital projection and smoke control in ride spaces where guests are confined to vehicles and unable to self-evacuate. The fire alarm system acts as the central control point for all of the input/output for these emergency control functions. The proposed fire alarm initiation language further clarifies the requirements already found in sections 12.4.8.4 and 12.4.8.2.

A new proposal is added to allow an operator acknowledgement feature. This will allow the operator, during use of the special amusement, to provide manual voice announcements while the fire alarm operates in private mode. However, without the operator acknowledgment, the fire alarm would enter public mode notification when the constantly attended location is not attended, a common condition at night where maintenance personnel may work on the attraction or custodial personnel clean.

Due to the use of alarm verification or smoke detector cross zoning, the use of positive alarm sequence should not normally be allowed as this may create a further delay in evacuation time. Currently a conflict exists between Section 12.3.4.3.1 which allows positive alarm sequence in assembly occupancies and Section 12.4.8.6 which requires alarm verification or cross-zoning. The proposed addition allows the authority having jurisdiction to asses and approve the use of positive alarm sequence.



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Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: This PI along with numerous others has been referred to a task group on special amusementbuildings for further study.


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Furnishings, Decoration, and Scenery

X.1 The authority having jurisdiction shall impose controls on the quantity and arrangement of combustiblecontents in special amusement buildings to provide an adequate level of safety to life from fire.

A.X.1 Special amusement buildings may simulate different structures such as an outdoor scene where falsewalls and ceilings, commonly known as sets, are recreated indoors with various fabrics and materials usedto simulate trees, leaves, or other items. Sets in special amusement facilities are often designed byentertainment companies familiar with Broadway style stage productions. However unlike stages andtheaters there is no requirements for smoke control or proscenium protection. The AHJ should consider andevaluate the total quantity of material introduced into the space, including materials that because of theirnature, such as plastics, that cannot meet Class A requirements.


Section 12.7.4 and specifically section 12.7.4.2 do not provide sufficient guidance on the materials used within special amusements buildings, particularly for show sets. This proposed addition and annex material is similar in nature to section 12.4.6.11 Flame Retardant Requirements for Stages and platforms, however within the special amusement section there is no requirements for smoke control or proscenium protection. This section provides clarity to specific to special amusement show decorations/sets.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement



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Emergency Action Plans

X.1 Where special amusements contain a ride system, the Emergency Action Plan shall be reviewed andapproved by the authority having jurisdiction.

A.X.1 The evacuation plan for special amusement attractions should consider the fastest way to removeoccupants from the structure. When a ride stops within the special amusement building, removingoccupants from the ride system may present an extended evacuation. Additionally, hazards associated withthe ride and show system may present electrical and entanglement challenges to occupants unfamiliar withthe building.

For special amusement buildings which contain ride systems, the fastest way to evacuate may be to:

(1) Upon receipt of the alarm signal, discontinue loading occupants onto the ride

(2) Evacuate the loading platform and any queue via the provided egress routes

(3) Cycle-out occupants already on the ride system via the unload platform

Evacuation of special amusement buildings can also pose challenges to the local fire department if they arenot familiar with the nature of the building or ride system. Additionally, specialized equipment for rescue, ridevehicle specific tools for releasing doors, and high-energy ride vehicle hazard awareness may all berequired when evacuating from a location other than a load/unload station. The authority having jurisdictionshould work with the ride operator from an early stage to develop a pre-incident plan in accordance withNFPA 1620: Standard for Pre-Incident Planning. See also A.4.8.2.1(3)


The substation for this addition is documented well in the proposed annex material. The key addition here is the requirement of the AHJ to approve the plan and not just perform a review. As the authority have jurisdiction may be tasked to provide evacuation and medical services, they must be prepared with the proper knowledge, equipment, and tools. This is similar to the fire department concurrency evaluation required in Chapter 15 of the life safety code.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: This PI along with numerous others has been referred to a task group on special amusementbuildings for further study. It is noted that 4.8.2.3 already requires the emergency action plan to bereviewed and updated by the AHJ as needed.


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12.7.5.3.4

Exhibit booth construction materials shall be limited to the following:

(1) Noncombustible or limited-combustible materials

(2) Wood exceeding 1⁄4 in. (6.3 mm) nominal thickness

(3) Wood that is pressure-treated, fire-retardant wood and fire-retardant coated wood meeting therequirements of NFPA 703

(4) Flame-retardant materials complying with one of the following:

(5) They shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria contained in Test Method 1 or TestMethod 2, as appropriate, of NFPA 701.

(6) They shall exhibit a heat release rate not exceeding 100 kW when tested in accordance withNFPA 289 using the 20 kW ignition source.

(7) Textile wall coverings, such as carpeting and similar products used as wall or ceiling finishes,complying with the provisions of 10.2.2 and 10.2.4.4

(8) Plastics limited to those that comply with 12.3.3 and Section 10.2

(9) Foamed plastics and materials containing foamed plastics having a heat release rate for any single fuelpackage that does not exceed 100 kW where tested in accordance with one of the following:



(12) Cardboard, honeycombed paper, and other combustible materials having a heat release rate for anysingle fuel package that does not exceed 150 kW where tested in accordance with one of the following:




To stay consistent with NFPA 703, Standard for Fire Retardant-Treated Wood and Fire-Retardant Coatings for Building Materials, Fire Retardant Coatings needs to be added. Processes should not be excluded when tests are performed to comply with testing requirements for the intended use.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


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Resolution: Fire retardant coatings are not equivalent to fire-retardant-treated wood. Related PI's in Ch. 8 werenot accepted.


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13.2.2.2.11 Emergency locking systems complying with Section 7.2.1.6.4 shall be permitted.


This proposal is based on acceptance of new Section 7.2.6.1.4 Emergency Locking Systems.

Chapters 14, 15, 16, 17, 38, and 39 have requirements for locking doors under lockdown conditions. Doors in auditoriums, cafeterias, and gymnasiums (and other spaces) are likely candidates for some form of emergency door locking functions. The proposed new section 7.2.1.6.4 Emergency Locking Systems could be applied safely to doors in assembly occupancies.



Public Input No. 216-NFPA 101-2018 [New Section after 7.2.1.6.3]


Submitter Full Name: Keith Pardoe

Organization: Pardoe Consulting LLC

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The proposed 7.2.1.6.4 was not accepted by the TC on Means of Egress.


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TITLE OF NEW CONTENT

Type your content here ...

Insert a new section after 2018 NFPA 101 Section 13.2.5.6.3 (6):

13.2.5.6.3 (7) Previously approved aisles designed using a version of NFPA 101 that permitted aislewidths ranging from 36 inches up to 42 inches shall be permitted to remain in use provided that theyprovide compliant egress capacity, and a center handrail shall be permitted to be installed in existingaisles having a width of 36 inches and greater. The center handrails shall be noncontinuous withgaps or breaks at intervals not exceeding three rows to facilitate access to seating and to allowcrossing from one side of the aisle to the other.



SCAN_-_1967_NFPA_101_1967_NFPA_102_-_Assembly_36-inch_Wide_Aisles_in_Outdoor_Stadiums.pdf

PDF file of Selected Sections from 1967 NFPA 101 & 1967 NFPA 102


Many grandstands built in the early- to mid-20th century (e.g., 1900’s, 1910’s, 1920’s, etc.) have narrow 36-inch wide aisles that are still in use. Some owners would like to install intermediate handrails for occupant safety, but the current Chapter 13 Existing Assembly Occupancies requires a minimum of 42 inches of aisle width for intermediate handrails to be installed. In my opinion, installation of intermediate handrails in legacy grandstands having 36-inch wide aisles and greater should be permitted. Refer to 1967 NFPA 101 and 1967 NFPA 102 which permit 36-inch wide aisles in large, outdoor, noncombustible grandstands. The code citations are in series:

1967 NFPA 101 Section 8-2 – Outdoor Assembly, 1967 NFPA 101 Section 8-2111,1967 NFPA 101 Appendix B (reference to 1967 NFPA 102),1967 NFPA 102 Section 36 – Aisles, 1967 NFPA 102 Section 362.

A pdf file of these selected code sections is attached.


Submitter Full Name: Raymond Battalora

Organization: The Univ of Texas at Austin Fire Prevention Services

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The proposed revision does not address arrangements that were not previously approved, and wouldpotentially create an unsafe condition.


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13.4.6.11.3

Scenery and stage properties not separated from the audience by proscenium opening protection shall beof noncombustible materials, limited-combustible materials, or fire-retardant-treated wood or fire-retardantcoated wood .


Fire-Retardant Coatings have the ability to comply with this code and should not be excluded for stage installations.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: Fire retardant coatings are not equivalent to FRTW. Related PI's in Ch. 8 were not accepted.


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Detection, Alarm, and Communication Requirements

X.1 General. Special amusement buildings shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system inaccordance with Section 9.6 and this section.

X.2 Initiation . Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by manual means in accordance with9.6.2, by detection devices or detection systems as required by 13.4.8.4, and by means of water flow alarmfrom the sprinkler system required by 13.4.8.2

X2.1 Notification.

A.X2.1 Notification in special amusement buildings should be considered carefully depending on theoperation of the special amusement. Voice announcements in accordance with Section 13.3.4.3.3 are therequired method. However, automatically transmitted evacuation instructions may not be appropriate insome rides when occupants are confined to a ride vehicle and unable to self-evacuate. In order to avoidconfusion, manual voice announcements from the ride operator may be preferable to pre-recordedevacuation instructions for some rides. See [New Section on Emergency Action Plans] and A.4.2.3.

X2.1 An automatic means for sounding the general evacuation alarm shall be provided for when theconstantly attended location is not staffed.

A.X2.1 Special amusement buildings that contain rides tend be occupied after operating hours bymaintenance staff. Afterhours maintenance work may talk place along the ride track or in an attachedmaintenance bay where ride vehicles are moved on/off spur tracks. When no ride operator is located at theconstantly attended location to receive alarm signals, a means of automatically sounding the generalevacuation signal should be provided for afterhours occupants. This can be accomplished by requiring theride operator to acknowledge a fire alarm signal on the remote annunciator within a pre-determined time(for example, 15 seconds). Afterhours, where no ride operator is present, the general evacuation alarm willsound when the alarm is not acknowledged at the remote annunciator.

X2.2 Positive alarm sequence in accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted where approved by theauthority having jurisdiction.


The provisions for smoke detection in special amusement buildings were added to NFPA 101 in 1997. Changes were made in 2000 and the current requirements went into effect in 2003. This proposed addition clarifies that a fire alarm system is required. The requirements found in section 13.4.8.4 Smoke Detection and 13.4.8.2 Automatic Sprinklers support this inclusion.

Since the addition of the special amusement chapters in 1997 there have been no major updates to this section of the code. However there have been substantial changes to fire alarm and building technologies. Similarly, special amusement buildings and the entertainment industry have embraced many new technologies such as digital projection and smoke control in ride spaces where guests are confined to vehicles and unable to self-evacuate. The fire alarm system acts as the central control point for all of the input/output for these emergency control functions. The proposed fire alarm initiation language further clarifies the requirements already found in sections 13.4.8.4 and 13.4.8.2.

A new proposal is added to allow an operator acknowledgement feature. This will allow the operator, during use of the special amusement, to provide manual voice announcements while the fire alarm operates in private mode. However, without the operator acknowledgment, the fire alarm would enter public mode notification when the constantly attended location is not attended, a common condition at night where maintenance personnel may work on the attraction or custodial personnel clean.

Due to the use of alarm verification or smoke detector cross zoning, the use of positive alarm sequence should not normally be allowed as this may create a further delay in evacuation time. Currently a conflict exists between Section 13.3.4.3.1 which allows positive alarm sequence in assembly occupancies and Section 13.4.8.6 which requires alarm verification or cross-zoning. The proposed addition allows the authority having jurisdiction to asses and approve the use of positive alarm sequence



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Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement



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Furnishings, Decoration, and Scenery

X.1 The authority having jurisdiction shall impose controls on the quantity and arrangement of combustiblecontents in special amusement buildings to provide an adequate level of safety to life from fire.

A.X.1 Special amusement buildings may simulate different structures such as an outdoor scene wherefalse walls and ceilings, commonly known as sets, are recreated indoors with various fabrics and materialsused to simulate trees, leaves, or other items. Sets in special amusement facilities are often designed byentertainment companies familiar with Broadway style stage productions. However unlike stages andtheaters there is no requirements for smoke control or proscenium protection. The AHJ should considerand evaluate the total quantity of material introduced into the space, including materials that because oftheir nature, such as plastics, that cannot meet Class A requirements.


Section 12.7.4 and specifically section 12.7.4.2 do not provide sufficient guidance on the materials used within special amusements buildings, particularly for show sets. This proposed addition and annex material is similar in nature to section 12.4.6.11 Flame Retardant Requirements for Stages and platforms, however within the special amusement section there is no requirements for smoke control or proscenium protection. This section provides clarity to specific to special amusement show decorations/sets.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement



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Emergency Action Plans

X.1 Where special amusements contain a ride system, the Emergency Action Plan shall be reviewed andapproved by the authority having jurisdiction.

A.X.1 The evacuation plan for special amusement attractions should consider the fastest way to removeoccupants from the structure. When a ride stops within the special amusement building, removingoccupants from the ride system may present an extended evacuation. Additionally, hazards associatedwith the ride and show system may present electrical and entanglement challenges to occupants unfamiliarwith the building.

For special amusement buildings which contain ride systems, the fastest way to evacuate may be to:

(1) Upon receipt of the alarm signal, discontinue loading occupants onto the ride

(2) Evacuate the loading platform and any queue via the provided egress routes

(3) Cycle-out occupants already on the ride system via the unload platform

Evacuation of special amusement buildings can also pose challenges to the local fire department if theyare not familiar with the nature of the building or ride system. Additionally, specialized equipment forrescue, ride vehicle specific tools for releasing doors, and high-energy ride vehicle hazard awareness mayall be required when evacuating from a location other than a load/unload station. The authority havingjurisdiction should work with the ride operator from an early stage to develop a pre-incident plan inaccordance with NFPA 1620: Standard for Pre-Incident Planning. See also A.4.8.2.1(3)


The substation for this addition is documented well in the proposed annex material. The key addition here is the requirement of the AHJ to approve the plan and not just perform a review. As the authority have jurisdiction may be tasked to provide evacuation and medical services, they must be prepared with the proper knowledge, equipment, and tools. This is similar to the fire department concurrency evaluation required in Chapter 15 of the life safety code.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement



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Public Input No. 394-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. A.3.3.37.9 ]

A.3.3.37.9 Special Amusement Building.

Special amusement buildings include amusements typically found in theme parks such as a hauntedhouse, a roller coaster–type ride within a building, a multilevel play structure within a building, a submarineride, and similar amusements where the occupants are not in the open air. airand may, or may not be,confined to a ride vehicle and/or unable to self-evacuate. Examples of a temporary special amusementbuilding include mobile fun-houses typically found in carnivals or a gymnasium converted to a hauntedhouse for Halloween..


This revision to the existing annex material provides additional examples and considerations to help the user of the code determine applicability of the special amusement definition.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision includes the language suggested in PI-394 to provide additional examples andconsiderations to help the used determine applicability of the special amusement definition. Therevision also incorporates language suggested by a task group on escape rooms to clarify that thespecial amusement building requirements apply to escape rooms where the occupancy meets suchdefinition.


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Public Input No. 351-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. A.12.2.5.5.1 ]

A.12.2.5.5.1

Seats having reclining backs are assumed to be in their most upright position when unoccupied.

A.12.2.5.5.1.2

This addresses the aisle accessway width applicable to the front row of conventional row seating and toother configurations of seating where the aisle accessway is behind seating, not arranged in conventionalrows. The latter could occur in lecture halls where a continuous, narrow table is provided in front ofindividual seats which are approached from an aisle accessway behind the seats.

The same configuration, without the continuous table, could occur especially in the front of a balcony orelevated grandstand where seats are placed immediately behind the guard railing at the front of thebalcony or grandstand and such seats, for example arranged in groups of two, are accessed from the rearso that other people do not walk in front of these seats (which could rotate for convenient access andegress) nor does anyone have to walk immediately adjacent to the railing at the front of the balcony orgrandstand. This creates both a safer situation relative to falls over sightline-constrained railings and abetter viewing experience for those in the seats located immediately adjacent to the sightline constrainedrailing. Such a railing, being closer (horizontally) to such people can be at regular guard height (42 inchesor 1067 mm) with no disruption to their sightline due to their eye height being about 46 inches (1170 mm)above the seating deck surface where they are seated.


The substantiation is incorporated in the proposed Annex Note plus the following. Having the aisle accessway in front of seating is the norm with a few exceptions one of which is noted in the proposed Annex Note — lecture hall seating at a continuous table (as needed for computers, tablets, etc.) — and in some theatre seating layouts where seating is right at a balcony front with access to and egress from the seating being behind the seating.

Such seating could also be used in grandstands and might alleviate some dangers of people falling over sightline-constrained railings at the front of such grandstand balconies while providing superior (first-class) seating at the front of the balconies.

The proposed new text and Annex note provide the needed flexibility in how the Code addresses minimum width requirements for aisle accessways so there are no enforcement issues over these unusual designs.



Public Input No. 347-NFPA 101-2018 [Section No. 12.2.5.5.1] New Requirement to go with Annex Note




Affiliation: Self

Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: The proposed 12.2.5.5.1.2 was not accepted. See FR-6687, which amends the language proposed


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by related PI-347.


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A.12.4.1.1

Life safety evaluations are examples of performance-based approaches to life safety. In this respect,significant guidance in the form and process of life safety evaluations is provided by Chapter 5, keeping inmind the fire safety emphasis in Chapter 5. Performance criteria, scenarios, evaluation, safety factors,documentation, maintenance, and periodic assessment (including a warrant of fitness) all apply to thebroader considerations in a life safety evaluation. A life safety evaluation deals not only with fire but alsowith storms, collapse, crowd behavior, and other related safety considerations for which a checklist isprovided in A.12.4.1.3. Chapter 5 provides guidance, based on fire safety requirements, for establishing adocumented case showing that products of combustion in all conceivable fire scenarios will not significantlyendanger occupants using means of egress in the facility (e.g., due to fire detection, automaticsuppression, smoke control, large-volume space, or management procedures). Moreover, means of egressfacilities plus facility management capabilities should be adequate to cope with scenarios where certainegress routes are blocked for some reason.

In addition to making realistic assumptions about the capabilities of persons in the facility (e.g., anassembled crowd including many disabled persons or persons unfamiliar with the facility), the life safetyevaluation should include a factor of safety of not less than 2.0 in all calculations relating to hazarddevelopment time and required egress time (the combination of flow time and other time needed to detectand assess an emergency condition, initiate egress, and move along the egress routes). The factor ofsafety takes into account the possibility that half of the egress routes might not be used (or be usable) incertain situations.

Regarding crowd behavior, the potential hazards created by larger masses of people and greater crowddensities (which can be problematic during ingress, occupancy, and egress) demand that technology beused by designers, managers, and authorities responsible for buildings to compensate for the relaxedegress capacity provisions of Table 12.4.2.3. In very large buildings for assembly use, the hazard of crowdcrushes can exceed that of fire or structural failure. Therefore, the building designers, managers, eventplanners, security personnel, police authorities, and fire authorities, as well as the building constructionauthorities, should understand the potential problems and solutions, including coordination of theiractivities. For crowd behavior, this understanding includes factors of space, energy, time, and information,as well as specific crowd management techniques, such as metering. Published guidance on these factorsand techniques is found in the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering , Section 3, Chapter 13, pp.3-342–3-366 (Proulx, G., “Movement of People”), Chapter 56 (Egress Concepts and Design Approaches),Chapter 58 (Human Behavior in Fire), and 59 (Employing the Hydraulic Model in Assessing EmergencyMovement) , SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire and the publications referenced therein.

Table 12.2.3.2 and Table 12.4.2.3 are based on a linear relationship between number of seats and nominalflow time, with not less than 200 seconds (3.3 minutes) for 2000 seats plus 1 second for every additional 50seats up to 25,000. Beyond 25,000 total seats, the nominal flow time is limited to 660 seconds (11 minutes).Nominal flow time refers to the flow time for the most able group of patrons; some groups less familiar withthe premises or less able groups might take longer to pass a point in the egress system. Although three ormore digits are noted in the tables, the resulting calculations should be assumed to provide only twosignificant figures of precision.


The edits reflect the changes made to the current edition of the SFPE Handbook of fire Protection Engineering. Also, the revised version of the SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire provides additional guidance on the information referenced in Section 12.4.1.1.


Submitter Full Name: Chris Jelenewicz

Organization: Society of Fire Protection Eng

Street Address:

City:

State:


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Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The edits reflect the changes made to the current edition of the SFPE Handbook of fire ProtectionEngineering. Also, the revised version of the SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire providesadditional guidance on the information referenced in Section 12.4.1.1.


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Public Input No. 395-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. A.12.4.8 ]

A.12.4.8

Special amusement buildings are unique structures that can present challenges not common in assemblyor other occupancies. Hazards in Special Amusement Buildings include industrial, electrical, pneumatic,stored energy systems or other systems and equipment associated with the ride and/or show systems.Occupants are typically not familiar with their surroundings and the provided egress access may not beapparent while the building is operating in show conditions.

Additionally, special amusement buildings may present design challenges which the authority havingjurisdiction may need to consider. For example, a ride building containing a roller-coaster may meet theheight requirements for a high-rise structure, but only contain one story of height and mezzanines orcatwalks at upper levels for evacuation. Portions of a ride may exit and return into the building, traverse toan open structure, be located surrounded by water, or contain an atrium. Each of these conditions presentchallenges to the design of fire protection, fire alarm and life safety systems as well as the emergencyaction plan required in Sections 12.7.13.

Where a special amusement building is installed inside another building on a temporary basis , such aswithin an exhibit hall, the special amusement building requirements apply only to the portions of thebuilding used as a special amusement building . For example, the smoke detectors required by 12.4.8.4are not required to be connected to the building’s fire alarm system. Where installed in an exhibit hall, suchsmoke detectors are also required to comply with the provisions applicable to an exhibit.


This revision to the existing annex material provides new and updated information to help the user of the code identify the different hazards typically found in a special amusement structure. As new technologies for special amusement attractions have been implemented, this section of the annex has become outdated as it fails to mention these complex systems. This annex material will help users of the code identify other sections of the code that require consideration for these unique circumstances.

The section on Special Amusements installed in other buildings is updated to reflect the temporary natures of these installations and not to provide a permanent solution in lieu of the code requirements contained in Chapter 12.4.8.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: This revision to the existing annex material provides new and updated information to help the user ofthe code identify the different hazards typically found in a special amusement structure. As newtechnologies for special amusement attractions have been implemented, this section of the annexhas become outdated as it fails to mention these complex systems. This annex material will helpusers of the code identify other sections of the code that require consideration for these uniquecircumstances.

The section on Special Amusements installed in other buildings is updated to reflect the temporarynatures of these installations and not to provide a permanent solution in lieu of the code requirements


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contained in Chapter 12.4.8.


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Public Input No. 380-NFPA 101-2018 [ New Section after A.12.4.8.2 ]

A.12.4.8.6

Lighting levels within special amusement buildings are typically reduced to levels less than required bySection 7.8 for show purposes. In addition, projections, special effects, haze, and other theatrical elementsmay be combined which can disorient occupants who are already unfamiliar with the egress route. Section12.4.8.6 requires that activation of the automatic sprinkler system or smoke detection system to immediatelyincrease illumination to required levels and stop all show elements that would continue to disorient orconfuse occupants.

Because of the delay in verification or cross-zoning of smoke detectors, positive alarm sequence should notbe utilized when alarm-verification or cross-zoned smoke detectors is selected.


This addition to the annex provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today’s special amusement structures.





Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today's specialamusement buildings.

Due to the use of alarm verification or smoke detector cross zoning, the use of positive alarmsequence should not normally be allowed as this may create a further delay in evacuation time.Currently a conflict exists between 12.3.4.3.1 which allows positive alarm sequence in assemblyoccupancies and 12.4.8.6 which requires alarm verification or cross-zoning. The proposed additionallows the authority having jurisdiction to asses and approve the use of positive alarm sequence.


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A.12.4.8.5

Most special amusements attractions contain an operator console or “tower” which may also service as aconstantly attended location when the ride is operational. A remote fire alarm annunciator capable oftransmitting voice announcements or a PA system that complies with 9.6.3.9.2 should be provided andaccessible to the ride operator. The operator should have a means of acknowledging receipt of alarmsignals and be trained on the evacuation plan required in Sections 12.7.13 and 4.8.


This addition to the annex identifies an arrangement standard to special amusement facilities and guides the user to consider the training and operational procedure necessary of the ride operator when a fire alarm is initiated and evacuation is necessary.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision identifies an arrangement sometimes found in special amusement buildings. Additionalsuggested language in PI-396 goes beyond explaining the requirement of 12.4.8.5.


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A.12.4.8.7.3

Special amusement buildings contain highly themed environments where it may be desirable to dim exitmarkings. Consideration should be given to the provision of directional exit marking on or adjacent to thefloor. See Proposed A.12.4.8.6


This addition to the annex provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today’s special amusement buildings. This addition to the annex identifies a manual means of illumination which is standard to special amusement facilities and should be provided at the operator console.




Street Address:

City:

State:

Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement

Resolution: This PI along with numerous others has been referred to a task group on special amusementbuildings for further study. It is noted that the requirements of Section 7.10, and specifically 7.10.1.6,should be considered.


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A.13.4.1.1

Life safety evaluations are examples of performance-based approaches to life safety. In this respect,significant guidance in the form and process of life safety evaluations is provided by Chapter 5, keeping inmind the fire safety emphasis in Chapter 5. Performance criteria, scenarios, evaluation, safety factors,documentation, maintenance, and periodic assessment (including a warrant of fitness) all apply to thebroader considerations in a life safety evaluation. A life safety evaluation deals not only with fire but alsowith storms, collapse, crowd behavior, and other related safety considerations for which a checklist isprovided in A.13.4.1.3. Chapter 5 provides guidance, based on fire safety requirements, for establishing adocumented case showing that products of combustion in all conceivable fire scenarios will not significantlyendanger occupants using means of egress in the facility (e.g., due to fire detection, automaticsuppression, smoke control, large-volume space, or management procedures). Moreover, means of egressfacilities plus facility management capabilities should be adequate to cope with scenarios where certainegress routes are blocked for some reason.

In addition to making realistic assumptions about the capabilities of persons in the facility (e.g., anassembled crowd including many disabled persons or persons unfamiliar with the facility), the life safetyevaluation should include a factor of safety of not less than 2.0 in all calculations relating to hazarddevelopment time and required egress time (the combination of flow time and other time needed to detectand assess an emergency condition, initiate egress, and move along the egress routes). This factor ofsafety takes into account the possibility that half of the egress routes might not be used (or usable) incertain situations.

Regarding crowd behavior, the potential hazards created by larger masses of people and greater crowddensities (which can be problematic during ingress, occupancy, and egress) demand that technology beused by designers, managers, and authorities responsible for buildings to compensate for the relaxedegress capacity provisions of Table 13.4.2.3. In very large buildings for assembly use, the hazard of crowdcrushes can exceed that of fire or structural failure. Therefore, the building designers, managers, eventplanners, security personnel, police authorities, and fire authorities, as well as the building constructionauthorities, should understand the potential problems and solutions, including coordination of theiractivities. For crowd behavior, this understanding includes factors of space, energy, time, and information,as well as specific crowd management techniques, such as metering. Published guidance on these factorsand techniques is found in the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering, Section 3 , Chapter 13 ,pp. 3-342–3-366 (Proulx, G., “Movement of People”), Chapter 56 (Egress Concepts and DesignApproaches), and Chapter 58 (Human Behavior in Fire), and 59 (Employing the Hydraulic Model inAssessing Emergency Movement), SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire and the publicationsreferenced therein.

Table 13.2.3.2 and Table 13.4.2.3 are based on a linear relationship between number of seats and nominalflow time, with not less than 200 seconds (3.3 minutes) for 2000 seats plus 1 second for every additional 50seats up to 25,000. Beyond 25,000 total seats, the nominal flow time is limited to 660 seconds (11 minutes).Nominal flow time refers to the flow time for the most able group of patrons; some groups less familiar withthe premises or less able groups might take longer to pass a point in the egress system. Although three ormore digits are noted in the tables, the resulting calculations should be assumed to provide only twosignificant figures of precision.


Edits needed to reflect current edition of the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering. Also, the SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire provides information relevant to content in Section 13.4.1.1.


Submitter Full Name: Chris Jelenewicz

Organization: Society of Fire Protection Eng

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Zip:


Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: Edits needed to reflect current edition of the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering. Also,the SFPE Guide to Human Behavior in Fire provides information relevant to content in 13.4.1.1.


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Public Input No. 385-NFPA 101-2018 [ Section No. A.13.4.8 ]

A.13.4.8

Special amusement buildings are unique structures that can present challenges not common in assemblyor other occupancies. Hazards in Special Amusement Buildings include industrial, electrical, pneumatic,stored energy systems or other systems and equipment associated with the ride and/or show systems.Occupants are typically not familiar with their surroundings and the provided egress access may not beapparent while the building is operating in show conditions.

Additionally, special amusement buildings may present design challenges which the authority havingjurisdiction may need to consider. For example, a ride building containing a roller-coaster may meet theheight requirements for a high-rise structure, but only contain one story of height and mezzanines orcatwalks at upper levels for evacuation. Portions of a ride may exit and return into the building, traverse toan open structure, be located surrounded by water, or contain an atrium. Each of these conditions presentchallenges to the design of fire protection, fire alarm and life safety systems as well as the emergencyaction plan required in Sections 13.7.13.

Where a special amusement building is installed inside another building on a temporary basis , such aswithin an exhibit hall, the special amusement building requirements apply only to the the portions of thebuilding used as a special amusement building special amusement . For example, the smoke detectorsrequired by 13.4.8.4 are not required to be connected to the building’s fire alarm system. Where installed inan exhibit hall, such smoke detectors are also required to comply with the provisions applicable to anexhibit.


This revision to the existing annex material provides new and updated information to help the user of the code identify the different hazards typically found in a special amusement structure. As new technologies for special amusement attractions have been implemented, this section of the annex has become outdated as it fails to mention these complex systems. This annex material will help users of the code identify other sections of the code that require consideration for these unique circumstances.

The section on Special Amusements installed in other buildings is updated to reflect the temporary natures of these installations and not to provide a permanent solution in lieu of the code requirements contained in Chapter 12.4.8.




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Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: This revision to the existing annex material provides new and updated information to help the user ofthe code identify the different hazards typically found in a special amusement structure. As newtechnologies for special amusement attractions have been implemented, this section of the annexhas become outdated as it fails to mention these complex systems. This annex material will helpusers of the code identify other sections of the code that require consideration for these uniquecircumstances.

The section on Special Amusements installed in other buildings is updated to reflect the temporary


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natures of these installations and not to provide a permanent solution in lieu of the code requirementscontained in 13.4.8.


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A.13.4.8.5

Most special amusements attractions contain an operator console or “tower” which may also service as aconstantly attended location when the ride is operational. A remote fire alarm annunciator capable oftransmitting voice announcements or a PA system that complies with 9.6.3.9.2 should be provided andaccessible to the ride operator. The operator should have a means of acknowledging receipt of alarmsignals and be trained on the evacuation plan required in Sections 12.7.13 and 4.8.


This addition to the annex identifies an arrangement standard to special amusement facilities and guides the user to consider the training and operational procedure necessary of the ride operator when a fire alarm is initiated and evacuation is necessary.




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Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision identifies an arrangement sometimes found in special amusement buildings. Additionalsuggested language in PI-387 goes beyond explaining the requirement of 13.4.8.5.


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A.13.4.8.6

Lighting levels within special amusement buildings are typically reduced to levels less than required bySection 7.8 for show purposes. In addition, projections, special effects, haze, and other theatrical elementsmay be combined which can disorient occupants who are already unfamiliar with the egress route. Section13.4.8.6 requires that activation of the automatic sprinkler system or smoke detection system to immediatelyincrease illumination to required levels and stop all show elements that would continue to disorient orconfuse occupants.

Because of the delay in verification or cross-zoning of smoke detectors, positive alarm sequence should notbe utilized when alarm-verification or cross-zoned smoke detectors is selected.


This addition to the annex provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today’s special amusement structures.





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Committee: SAF-AXM

Committee Statement


Statement: The revision provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today's specialamusement buildings.

Due to the use of alarm verification or smoke detector cross zoning, the use of positive alarmsequence should not normally be allowed as this may create a further delay in evacuation time.Currently a conflict exists between 13.3.4.3.1 which allows positive alarm sequence in assemblyoccupancies and 13.4.8.6 which requires alarm verification or cross-zoning. The proposed additionallows the authority having jurisdiction to asses and approve the use of positive alarm sequence.


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A.13.4.8.7.3

Special amusement buildings contain highly themed environments where it may be desirable to dim exitmarkings. Consideration should be given to the provision of directional exit marking on or adjacent to thefloor. See Proposed A.13.4.8.6


This addition to the annex provides up-to-date information on the environment common to today’s special amusement buildings. This addition to the annex identifies a manual means of illumination which is standard to special amusement facilities and should be provided at the operator console.




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