I

II
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

CENTRAL PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

v
CPWD GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
FOR
ELECTRICAL WORKS
PART-V (WET RISER &
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS)

2020

DIRECTORATE GENERAL, CPWD, NIRMAN BHAWAN, NEW DELHI-110011

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy,
recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without
permission, in writing from the Director General, CPWD, New Delhi.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA PUBLICATION

Published under the authority of

Director General
Central Public Works Department
Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi-110011
IV
V
VI
 Sudhir Kumar Chawla
Chairman Government of India Central Public Works Department
(Specifications Committee)
Office of Director General (In-Situ)
A,
Kendriya Sadan, Sector-9A,

Chandigarh-160009

PREFACE
The CPWD General Specifications for Electrical Works- Part – V (Wet Riser & Sprinkler
Systems) 2020 is the revised edition of CPWD General Specifications for Electrical
Works, Part – V (Wet Riser & Sprinkler Systems) 2006.

There was a growing need to revise these Specifications due to major technological
changes in the field of Wet Riser & Sprinkler Systems over a period of time and to
incorporate the modifications in the National Building Code of India as well as in Indian
Standards. This edition incorporates the relevant provisions of National Building Code
of India- 2016 and latest Indian Standards, namely, IS:13039:2014 (External Hydrant
Systems- Provision and Maintenance-Code of Practice) and IS:15105 (Design,
Installation and Maintenance of Fixed Automatic Sprinkler Fire Extinguishing
Systems−Code of Practice(First Revision). Accordingly, changes have been effected in
this revision.

Almost all the Chapters and Appendices have been modified to align them with the
National Building Code of India-2016, IS: 13039:2014 and IS:15105 in this edition.
Annexure-A has been revised in accordance with NBC-2016. In addition, an
alternate provision of providing Stainless Steel Pipes and fittings has been
introduced in this edition for pipe work of Automatic Sprinkler System inside the
building, particularly where replacement of pipes is not easy like areas above false
ceiling etc., subject to the condition that these pipes with associated fittings are
suitable to safely withstand the system test pressures. Also, provision of Retrofitted
emission control equipment having a minimum specified PM-capturing efficiency of at
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least 70% has been kept for Diesel Pumps as recommended by National Clean Air
Program-2019 launched by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Similarly, inclusion of Holiday Testing for wrapping and coating of Underground M S
Pipe has been made. Compliance to Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India)
Order (PPP-MII Order)-2017 as amended, has been emphasized. Installation of
negative suction arrangement and submersible pumps has been dispensed with in line
with NBC-2016/IS: 13039. Two new Appendices have been added. Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 12
and 14 have been updated and Figure 6 has been newly added.

I am grateful to Shri Vinit Kumar Jayaswal, Director General, CPWD for reposing trust
in me to undertake this arduous task in a short period. My acknowledgements are
also due to Shri Anant Kumar, ADG (Tech.) who has facilitated in this task amply.
I express my deep appreciation to Shri Chaitanya Kumar Varma, Chief Engineer(E) CSQ
and Shri Dhirender Kumar Tulani, Superintending Engineer(E) TAS for drafting this
publication within the given time frame.

Further, I acknowledge the efforts put in by Shri Ashwani Kumar Sharma, AE(E) TAS
(Retd.) for his dedicated contribution just before his retirement, Sh. Jagdish Kumar,
AE(E) TAS, Shri K. Madhu, AE(E) TAS and Sh. Vijender Kumar, Chief Estimator(E).

Errors or Omissions and suggestions for improvements, if any, may be brought to the
notice of SE (E) TAS, Office of CE (E) CSQ, CPWD, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi.

Place: Chandigarh (Sudhir Kumar Chawla)

Date: September, 2020 Director General (In-Situ), CPWD
Chairman, Specifications Committee

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 MEMBERS OF SPECIFICATION COMMITTEE FOR E&M WORKS

1. Sh. Sudhir Kumar Chawla, DG (In-Situ) Chairman

2. JS & CVO or his representative Member
3. Sh. A. K. Ahuja, ADG, PWD, Delhi Member
4. Sh. Satish Chandra Bhardwaj, ADG(RD) Member
5. Sh. C. K. Varma, CE (E) CSQ Member
6. Chief Technical Examiner or his representative Member
7. Sh. Shahabuddin Ahmad, CE (E), BFLZ Member
8. Sh. Ujjwal Mitra, CE, NDZ-III Member
9. Sh. M. K. Mallick, CE CSQ (C) Member
10. Sh. Harish Kumar, DDG (W) Member
11. Sh. Vikas Gupta, CE (E)PEWZ Member
12. Sh. Vimal Kumar, CE (W cum TLQA) Special Invitee
13. Sh. Vikas Rana, CE (NDZ-I) Member
14. Sh. Awadhesh Kumar, CE (E) Trg. Member
15. Chief Architect (DR) Member
16. Sh. Ali Shamsher, Director Finance Member
17. Sh. Rajeev Sao, SE(E) Special Invitee
18. Sh. Dhirender Kumar Tulani, SE (E) TAS Member Secretary

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X
 REFERENCES OF AMENDMENTS
S.No. Reference under which Issued Chapter No. Item No. Page

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XII
 CONTENTS
S.No. Description Page No.
1 Chapter 1 General 1-9

2 Chapter 2 System and System Requirements 10-19

3 Chapter 3 Architectural and Structural Requirements 20-23

4 Chapter 4 Planning, Designing and Coordination 24-30

5 Chapter 5 Fire Pumps 31-33

6 Chapter 6 Diesel Engine for Fire Pumps 34-38

7 Chapter 7 Pipe Work 39-46

8 Chapter 8 Firefighting Accessories 47-50

9 Chapter 9 Automatic Sprinkler System 51-67

10 Chapter 10 Electrical works 68-73

11 Chapter 11 Installation, Testing and Commissioning 74-78

12 Appendix -A Minimum Requirements for Firefighting 79-92

Installations
13 Appendix -B Terminology 93-95

14 Appendix -C Maintenance and Operation of Wet Riser System 96-99

15 Appendix -D Maintenance of Automatic Sprinkler System 100-101

16 Appendix - E List of Relevant Indian Standards 102-103

17 Appendix - F Table 17 Plate flanges for welding 104

18 Figures (1 to 15) 105-119

19 Appendix - G Extracts from NBC-2016, Vol.1, Part-4 120-122

20 Appendix - H Extracts from IS-13039, 2014 123-124

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XIV
 CHAPTER-1
GENERAL
1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.1.1 Scope

1.1.1.1 These specifications cover water based fixed firefighting installations described
in Para 2.2.

1.1.2 Related Documents

These General Specifications shall be read in conjunction with the general
conditions of contract, tender specifications, schedule of work, drawings and
other documents connected with the work. In the event of any discrepancy
between these specifications and general conditions of contract and tender
specifications, the latter shall override the former.

1.1.3 Terminology
The definition of terms used in these specifications shall be in accordance with
relevant IS. Some of the commonly used terms are defined in Appendix-B.

1.1.4 Site Information

The tenderer should, in his own interest, visit the site and familiarize himself with
the site conditions before tendering. For any clarification, tenderer may discuss
with the Engineer-in-Charge.

1.2 CONFORMITY WITH STATUTORY ACTS, RULES, ORDERS, STANDARDS AND

CODES
(i) All components and their installation shall conform to relevant Indian
Standard Specifications, wherever existing, amended to date. A list of such
standards is appended in Appendix-E.
(ii) As per Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order (PPP-MII
Order), inclusion of foreign standards/certification in tenders, thereby
excluding local manufacturers, is violative of the Order.
Therefore, utmost care shall be taken to stipulate Indian
Standards/certifications instead of foreign standards/certifications for various
products/materials in the tender documents.
In all cases, the PPP-MII Order 2017 as amended shall be strictly complied.
(iii) All electrical works shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of
Indian Electricity Act, 2003 and Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety
and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010, NEC 2011 amended to date. They shall
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 also conform to CPWD General Specifications for Electrical Works, Part-I
(Internal)-2013, Part-II (External)- 1994, Part IV (Sub-station) 2013 and Part-VII
(D G Sets)-2013 amended to date.
1.3 SAFETY CODES AND LABOUR REGULATIONS
(i) In respect of all labour employed directly or indirectly on the work for the
performance of the firefighting contractor’s part of work, the contractor at
his own expense, will arrange for the safety provisions as per the statutory
provisions including “Safety, Health and Environment Handbook 2019”
published by CPWD, B.I.S recommendations, Factory Act, Workman’s
Compensation Act, CPWD Code and instructions issued from time to time.
Failure to provide such safety requirements would make the tenderer liable
for penalty to be decided by Engineer-in-charge. In addition, the Engineer-in-
charge, shall be at liberty to make arrangements and provide facilities as
aforesaid and recover the cost incurred thereon from the contractor.
(ii) The contractor shall provide necessary barriers, warning signals and other safety
measures while laying pipelines, cables etc. or wherever necessary so as to
avoid accident. He shall also indemnify CPWD against claims for compensation
arising out of negligence in this respect. Contractor shall be liable, in accordance
with the Indian Law and Regulations, for any accident occurring due to any
cause. The department shall not be responsible for any accident occurred or
damage incurred or claims arising therefrom during the execution of work. The
contractor shall also provide all insurance including third party insurance as
may be necessary to cover the risk. No extra payment would be made to the
contractor due to the above provisions thereof.

1.4 WORKS TO BE ARRANGED BY THE DEPARTMENT

Unless otherwise specified in the tender documents, the following works shall
be arranged by the Department:
(i) Space for accommodating all the equipment and components involved in the
work,
(ii) Power supply, Water supply and Drain points as per para 1.6,
(iii) Masonry ducts within and outside the building for carrying pipe lines and
cables wherever specified.
(iv) Under ground and terrace tanks.
In case of composite contracts, having Firefighting work as one of the works,
these arrangements shall be made by the agency/ contractor only.

1.5 WORKS TO BE DONE BY THE CONTRACTOR

Unless otherwise mentioned in the tender documents, the following works shall
be done by the contractor and therefore, their cost shall be deemed to be included
in the tendered cost- whether specifically indicated in the Schedule of Work or
not: -
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 (i) Foundations for equipment including foundation bolts and vibration isolation
spring/pads,
(ii) Suspenders, brackets and floor/wall supports for suspending/supporting
pipes.
(iii) Suspenders and/or cable trays for laying the cables,
(iv) Excavation and refilling of trenches in soil wherever the pipes are to be laid
directly in ground, including necessary base treatment and supports.
(v) Sealing of all floor slab/wall openings provided by the Department or made by
the contractor for pipes and cables, from fire safety point of view, after laying
of the same.
(vi) Painting of all exposed metal surfaces of equipment and components with
appropriate colour as per para 1.13.
(vii) Making openings in the walls/floors/slabs or modification in the existing
openings wherever provided for carrying pipe line, cables etc.
(viii) All electrical works including cable/wires, earthing etc. beyond power supply
made available by the department.
(ix) Making good all damages caused to the structure during installation and
restoring the same to their original finish.
(x) Approval from local fire authorities as may be required as per local bye-laws.
(The contractor’s responsibility shall be limited to the work executed by
him.)

1.6 POWER SUPPLY, WATER SUPPLY AND DRAINAGE

1.6.1 Power Supply

(i) Unless otherwise specified, 3 phase, 415 volts, 50 Hz, AC power supply (5 kW)
shall be provided by the department free of charge to the contractor at one
point for installation at site. Termination switchgear however, shall be
provided by the contractor. Further extension, if required, shall be carried
out by the contractor.
(ii)
(a) The power supply for testing and commissioning of the complete
installation shall be made available by the Department free of charge to
the contractor. For this purpose, the power supply shall be given at the
main incomer unit of the electrical panel to be provided by the contractor.
The termination of this feeder in the main incomer unit shall be the
responsibility of the contractor and nothing extra shall be paid on this
account.

(b) Unless otherwise specified in the contract, further power distribution to

the various equipment shall be done by the contractor.

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 (iii)Where the power supply has to be arranged by the Department at more than
one point as per the terms of the contract, the termination of all such power
feeders in the incomer of respective control panels to be provided by the
contactor shall be the responsibility of the contractor and nothing extra shall
be paid on this account.
(iv) The contractor shall use the power supply only for the bonafide use of the
work. No major fabrication work shall be done at site. Power shall be used
only for welding/cutting works. The power supply shall be disconnected in
case of such default and the contractor shall then have to arrange the
required power supply at his cost.
(v) In case of composite contracts, having Firefighting work as one of the
works, these arrangements shall be made by the agency/ contractor only.

1.6.2 Water Supply

Water supply shall be made available to the contractor by the Department free
of charge at only one point for installation. Further extension if required shall be
done by the contractor at his cost.
In case of composite contracts, having Firefighting work as one of the works, this
arrangement shall be made by the agency/ contractor only.

1.6.3 Drainage
(i) Drain traps in pump room shall be arranged by the department.
(ii) Piping Connections from the equipment to the drain trap shall be done by
the contractor. These items of work shall be measured and paid as per
contract.
In case of composite contracts, having Firefighting work as one of the works, this
arrangement shall be made by the agency/ contractor only.

1.7 MACHINERY FOR ERECTION

All tools and tackles required for unloading / handling of equipment and materials
at site, their assembly, erection, testing and commissioning shall be the
responsibility of the contractor.

1.8 COMPLETENESS OF THE TENDER, SUBMISSION OF PROGRAMME, APPROVAL

OF DRAWINGS AND COMMENCEMENT OF WORK

(i) Completeness of the tender:-

All sundry equipment, fittings, assemblies, accessories, hardware items,
foundation bolts, supports, termination lugs for electrical connections, cable
glands, junction boxes and all other items which are useful and necessary for
proper assembly and efficient working of the various equipment and
components of the work shall be deemed to have been included in the tender,
irrespective of the fact whether such items are specifically mentioned in the
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 tender or not.

(ii) Submission of programme:-

Within fifteen days from the date of receipt of the letter of award, the successful
tenderer shall submit his programme for submission of drawings, supply of
equipment, installation, testing, commissioning and handing over of the installation
to the Engineer-in-Charge. This programme shall be framed keeping in view the
building progress and the Milestones fixed in Schedule ‘F’ Clause-5 of General
Conditions of Contract. Items like piping etc. that directly affect the building progress
shall be given priority. Hose pipes, branch pipes, first aid hose reel pipes shall
be supplied just before commissioning the system.

(iii) Submission of Drawings:-

The contractor shall submit the drawings to the Engineer-in-Charge as per para
1.17.2 for approval before start of work.

(iv) Commencement of work:-

The contractor shall commence work as soon as the drawings submitted by him
are approved either in full or in part as the case may be.

1.9 DISPATCH OF MATERIALS TO SITE AND THEIR SAFE CUSTODY

The contractor shall dispatch materials to site in consultation with the Engineer-
in- Charge. Suitable lockable storage accommodation shall be made available
free of charge temporarily. Watch and ward however, shall be the responsibility of
contractor. Programme of dispatch of material shall be framed keeping in view
the building progress. Safe custody of all machinery and equipment supplied by
the contractor shall be the responsibility of the contractor till final taking over by
the department.

1.10 CO-ORDINATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES

The contractor shall co-ordinate with all other agencies involved at the site of
work so that the work of other agencies is not hampered due to delay in his
work. Piping, cabling or any other work, which directly affect the progress of work
of other agencies, shall be given priority.

1.11 QUALITY OF MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP

(i) The components of the installation shall be of such design so as to
satisfactorily function under all conditions of operation.
(ii) The entire work of manufacture/fabrication, assembly and installation shall
conform to sound engineering practice.
(iii) All equipment and materials to be used in work shall be manufactured in
factories of good repute having excellent track record of quality
manufacturing, performance and proper after sales service.
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1.12 CARE OF THE BUILDING
Care shall be taken by the contractor during execution of the work to avoid
damage to the building. He shall be responsible for repairing all such damages
and restoring the same to the original finish at his cost. He shall also remove all
unwanted and waste materials arising out of the installation from the site of
work from time to time.

1.13 COLOUR SCHEME FOR THE EQUIPMENT AND COMPONENTS

1.13.1 The entire metal work above ground level shall be painted with red color shade
No. 536 of IS:5 .
1.13.2 Pump, motor and engine shall be painted with red color shade No. 536 of IS:5

1.14 INSPECTION AND TESTING

1.14.1 Initial Inspection and testing

(i) Initial inspection of materials and equipment at manufacturer’s works may be
done by the Engineer-in-Charge or his representative. For item/ equipment
requiring initial inspection at manufacturer’s works, the contractor will
intimate the date of testing of equipment at the manufacturer’s works before
dispatch. The contractor shall give sufficient advance notice regarding the dates
proposed for such tests to the department’s representative(s) to facilitate his
presence during testing. The Engineer-in-charge at his discretion may witness
such testing. Equipment will be inspected at the manufacturer/ authorized
dealer’s premises, before dispatch to the site by the contractor.

(ii) The department also reserves the right to inspect the fabrication job at
factory and the successful tenderer has to make arrangements for the same.

(iii) The materials duly inspected by Engineer-in-Charge or his authorized

representative shall be dispatched to site by the contractor.

(iv) No additional payment shall be made to the contractor for initial

inspection/testing at the manufacturer’s works by the representative of the
Engineer-in-Charge. However, the department will bear the expenses of its
representative deputed for carrying out initial inspection/testing.

1.14.2 Final Inspection and Testing

Final Inspection and testing will be done by the Engineer-in-Charge or his
representative as per details indicated in Chapter-11.

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 The installation will be offered for inspection of local bodies (Chief Fire Officer).
The contractor or his representative shall attend such inspection of the Chief
Fire Officer, extend all test facilities as are considered necessary, rectify and
comply with all observations of the Chief Fire Officer which are part of the
agreement and arrange for obtaining necessary clearance certificate in favour of
the department. In case the contractor fails to attend the inspection and make
desired facilities available during inspection, the department reserves the right
to provide the same at the risk and cost of the contractor and impose penalty for
the same. The installation will be accepted by the department only after
receiving clearance from Chief Fire Officer for the work executed by the
contractor under the agreement.

1.14.3 Safety Measures

All equipment shall incorporate suitable safety provisions to ensure safety of the
operating personnel at all times. The initial and final inspection reports shall bring
out explicitly the safety provisions incorporated in each equipment.

1.15 GUARANTEE
(i) The contractor shall guarantee the complete system to provide the specified
flow and pressure under all conditions at outlets.
(ii) All equipment shall be guaranteed for a period of 12 months from the date
of acceptance and taking over of the installation by the Department against
unsatisfactory performance and/or breakdown due to defective design,
material, manufacture, workmanship or installation. The equipment or
component or any part thereof so found defective during the guarantee
period shall be repaired or replaced free of cost to the satisfaction of the
Engineer-in-charge. In case, it is felt by the department that undue delay is
being caused by the contractor in doing this, the same will be got done by the
department at the risk and cost of the contractor. The decision of Engineer-
in-charge in this regard shall be final.

1.16 PAYMENT TERMS

1.16.1 The following percentage of contract rates shall be payable against the stages of
work shown herein:
Stage of work Machinery and Equipment All other
(Pumps and Electrical Panel) items
I After initial inspection (wherever
specified) and delivery at site in
good 80% 70%
condition on pro-rata basis
II On completion of installation on pro- 10 % 20 %
rata basis
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 III On testing, commissioning and 10 % 10 %
handing over.

1.17 TENDER DRAWINGS, DRAWINGS FOR APPROVAL AND COMPLETION

DRAWINGS

1.17.1 Tender Drawings

The drawings appended with the tender documents are intended to show the
areas allotted for various equipment, tentative pipe routes. The equipment
offered shall be suitable for installation in the spaces shown in these
drawings.

1.17.2 Drawings for approval on award of the work

The contractor shall prepare and submit following drawings and get them
approved from the Engineer-in-charge before the start of the work. The
approval of drawings however does not absolve the contractor of his
responsibility to supply the equipment/materials as per agreement. In case of
any contradiction between the approved drawings and agreement the
decision of the Engineer-in-Charge shall be final and binding on the
contractor.
(a) Layout drawings of the equipment to be installed in pump room and
terrace
(b) Drawings showing the details of erection of entire equipment including
their foundations
(c) Plumbing drawings showing the layout of entire piping, diameter and
length of pipes, hydrant, air vessel, valves and isometric drawings showing
connections to various equipment
(d) Sprinkler drawing indicating layout and sizes of pipe, location of valves,
sprinklers etc.
(e) Electrical wiring diagrams for all electrical equipment and controls
including the sizes and capacities of the various cables and equipment
(f) Dimensioned drawings of all electrical and control panels
(g) Drawings showing details of supports for pipes, cable trays etc.
(h) Any other drawing(s) relevant to the work

1.17.3 Completion Drawings

Three sets of the following laminated drawings shall be submitted by the
contractor while handing over the installation to the Department. Out of this
one of the sets shall be laminated on a hard base for display in the fire control
room. In addition, one set will be given on compact disc.
(a) Installation drawings giving complete details of all the equipment, including
their foundations,
(b) Plumbing layout drawings giving sizes and lengths of all the pipes and the
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 sizes and locations of all types of valves, and including isometric drawings
for the entire piping including the pipe connections to the various
equipment,
(c) Line diagram and layout of all electrical control panels giving switchgear
ratings and their disposition, cable feeder sizes and their layout,
(d) Control wiring drawings with all control components and sequence of
operations to explain the operation of control circuits.

1.18 DOCUMENTS TO BE FURNISHED ON COMPLETION OF INSTALLATION

Three sets of the following documents shall be furnished to the department
by the contractor on completion of work:-
(a) Completion drawings as per Para 1.17.3
(b) 3 sets of manufacturer’s technical catalogues of all equipment and
accessories.
(c) Operation and maintenance manual of all major equipment, detailing all
adjustments, operation and maintenance procedure.
(d) Name plate details of all equipment.

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 CHAPTER-2
SYSTEM AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

2.1 INTRODUCTION
Fire safety in buildings has become very important consideration in
construction and maintenance. A normal office building has fire load in the
form of large quantity of papers and furnishing. Buildings like Hospitals,
Laboratories, Auditoriums, Libraries, Museums etc. require fire safety
provisions by virtue of their type of occupancy and importance irrespective of
their height.

The aim of fire safety measure is to provide protection to life of occupants and
property in the event of fire in the building. National Building Code of India-
2016, Vol-1, Part-4 deals in detailed measures to be adopted for fire safety in
buildings. The measures depend upon the occupancy, use, height and area of
the building.

The broad classification of various type of occupancies into different Groups

in accordance with NBC-2016, Vol-1, Part-4 is as under: -
1. Group-A Residential
2. Group-B Educational
3. Group-C Institutional
4. Group-D Assembly
5. Group-E Business
6. Group-F Mercantile
7. Group-G Industrial
8. Group-H Hazardous
For further details of classifications, NBC-2016 is to be referred.

Besides various mediums of fighting fire, water is the cheapest and the most
easily available for this purpose. Water based fixed firefighting installations
are most commonly provided in buildings.

The design and installation of a firefighting system is of utmost importance.

The firefighting installation on completion will have to be got cleared from the
local firefighting authorities (Fire Service) for its efficacy, suitability and
usability by the Fire Service in the event of a fire.

Accordingly, such system shall be executed on turnkey basis to ensure proper

quality of material and zero leakage system apart from use of equipment and
other accessories. All the components shall be integrated to ensure proper
10
 performance at the time of fire.

2.2 FIREFIGHTING SYSTEM:

2.2.1 Following types of water based fixed firefighting installations are normally
provided in buildings:
(i) Wet Riser
(ii) Down Comer
(iii) Wet Riser cum Down Comer
(iv) Automatic Sprinkler

2.2.2 In all the above systems, lines are laid in and/or around the building and
permanently charged with water from a pressurized supply.
In a building, any one system or a combination shall be provided as specified
in Table-7 of National Building Code of India-2016, Vol-1, Part-4 as amended
up to date, depending upon the occupancy, use and height for protection.

The effective capacity of Under-ground static & Terrace Water Storage Tanks
and capacity of Fire Pumps etc. shall also be as specified in Table-7 of NBC-
2016. The same has been reproduced as Appendix-A of this document. The
effective capacity of the reservoir shall be measured above the top of the
pump casing (flooded suction).

Note: For additional occupancy wise requirements of various Groups

mentioned in Para 2.1 above, the provisions contained in Clause 6 of NBC
2016, Vol-1, Part-4 shall be referred to.

2.2.3 Municipal Regulation of the city shall also be taken in to consideration while
selecting and designing firefighting system for a building.

2.3 SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Besides architectural and building provisions such as underground tank, pump
houses, terrace tank, shafts for installation of internal hydrants, etc.
firefighting systems shall generally comprise supply, installation, testing and
commissioning of components as detailed in Table 2.1. Typical arrangement of
installations have been indicated in Figures 1 to 6.

2.4 SYSTEM ENGINEERING:

The capacities and sizes of various components described above will
depend upon the type and height of the building. Specifications of various
components have been described in succeeding chapters. Following factors
shall be taken in to consideration while designing various components.

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 2.4.1 Wet Riser cum Down Comer:-

2.4.1.1 Pressure at hydraulically remote hydrant and at the highest hydrant shall not
be less than 3.5 kgf/cm2. The pressure at the hydrants shall however not
exceed 7 kgf/cm2.

2.4.1.2 The pipe line will be designed in such a way that it should be possible to get
discharge at any location. Design parameters shall be as under:-
(i) Maximum flow velocity : 2.5 mps
(ii) Maximum Friction : 5 m per 100 m run
However, the size of wet riser shall be as given in Table 4.1 under Para 4.5.4
(ii).
2.4.1.3 Main Fire Pumps (Both electrical as well as diesel) shall be selected for:
(i) Discharge : 1620 lpm/2280 lpm/2850 lpm
(To be selected from Appendix-A)
(ii) Head : 35 m + Height of terrace level
hydrant above pump level + 6% of
the maximum length of pipe from
pump discharge to any hydrant at
terrace level

2.4.1.4 Terrace pump shall be selected for:

(i) Discharge : 450 lpm/900 Ipm
(To be selected from Appendix- A )
(ii) Head : 20 m+ 6% of the maximum length
of pipe from terrace pump to any
hydrant at terrace level

2.4.1.5 Pressurization pump (Jockey Pump) shall be selected for :

(i) Discharge : 180 Ipm
(ii) Head : 35 m + height of terrace level
hydrant above pump level

2.4.1.6 No. of Risers:- Number of risers will be decided to fulfill the following
conditions:-
(i) No corner of the building is farther than 30 m from nearest riser.
(ii) Horizontal distance between two risers shall not be more than 50 m.
(iii) Normally one riser is provided for every 1000 sq.m of plinth area or part
thereof.
However, the number of risers can be suitably increased to meet the given
situation.

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 TABLE 2.1
VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF FIREFIGHTING INSTALLATIONS
S. No. System component Wet Down Wet Automatic
Riser Comer Riser Sprinkler and
cum Wet Riser cum
Down Down Comer
Comer
(i) Electric Motor Driven Fire Pump Y N Y Y

(ii) Diesel Engine Driven Fire Pump Y N Y Y

(as stand by)
(iii) Pressurization Pump (Jockey Y N Y Y
Pump)
(iv) N Y Y Y
Terrace Pump
(v) Vertical risers in the building. Y Y Y Y
(vi) Pipe network inside the building N N N Y
throughout the area to be
protected with Sprinklers
(vii) External pipe line around the Y N Y Y
building.
(viii) Internal Hydrant Y Y Y Y
(ix) Yard Hydrant (External Hydrants) Y N Y Y
(x) First-aid hose reel. Y Y Y Y
(xi) Hose Pipe and Branch Pipe. Y Y Y Y
(xii) Air Vessels. Y Y Y Y
(xiii) Fire Service Connections. Y N Y Y
(xiv) Fire Service Inlet. Y Y Y Y
(xv) Control components like Y Y Y Y
pressure switches, flow switches
level indicator, alarm etc.
(xvi) Electrical Power and Control Y Y Y Y
Panel with cable and earthing
etc.
(xvii) Pipe line accessories like Y Y Y Y
Butterfly/ Sluice Valve, Non-
Return Valve etc.
‘Y’ Stands for: to be provided.
‘N’ Stands for: not to be provided.

13
 fffAppendic

2.4.1.7 Internal Hydrant: Every riser will be provided with the following at every floor
including terrace and basement over and above sprinkler system.
(i) Single headed outlet -2 Nos.
(ii) First Aid Hose Reel -1 No.
[Length of pipe shall be such that nozzle of the
hose can be taken into every room and within
6 m of any part of the rooms keeping in view
layout and obstruction.]
(iii) Hose Pipe 63 mm dia, 15 m long with
male and female coupling at ends. -2 Nos.
(iv) Branch pipe 63 mm dia with 20 mm
nominal internal diameter
nozzle and suitable for instantaneous connection. -1 No.

2.4.1.8 Yard Hydrant (External Hydrant)

2.4.1.8.1 For fighting fire from outside the building, yard hydrants are provided
around the building and in the closed court yard. For connecting yard
hydrants a ring of pipe shall be laid underground around the building at a
minimum distance of 2 m from the face of the building. All internal risers
shall be connected with this ring.
Yard hydrants shall be located at a minimum distance of 2 m but not more
than 15 m from the building face. The yard hydrants shall be easily accessible
and should normally be provided near boundary wall/along road. While
locating yard hydrants it should be ensured that same do not become
hindrance in vehicular movement or entrance to the building. Yard hydrants,
should be located around the building in such a way that it should be
possible to fight fire on any face of the building from the nearest hydrant.
At least one hydrant post shall be provided for every 45 m.

2.4.1.8.2 Fire Hydrants shall be of stand post type conforming to IS 908. All Yard
hydrant outlets shall be situated 1 m above ground level.

2.4.1.8.3 The stand posts shall be 80 mm in diameter for single headed hydrants. The
stand posts shall be painted ‘fire red’ as per Para 1.13. Mild steel stand post
may be accepted even in cases where underground mains are of cast iron,
using flanged joints.

2.4.1.8.4 Only Oblique hydrants conforming to IS 5290 with outlets angled towards
ground shall be used. The hydrant couplings shall be of the instantaneous
spring-lock (female) type of 63 mm diameter and valves shall be of the screw
down type.

14
 fffAppendic

2.4.1.8.5 Suitable pressure reducing devices shall be provided for yard as well as
internal hydrants where the pressure exceeds 7 kgf/cm2, considering the
safety of operators.

2.4.1.8.6 All hydrants should be serially numbered.

2.4.1.8.7 Yard hydrant will include the following accessories

(i) Connection from ring main with 80 mm dia MS pipe
(ii) 63 mm dia single head landing valve - 1 No.
(iii) Butterfly/sluice valve 80 mm dia - 1 No.
(iv) Hose pipe 63 mm dia 15 m long
with male and female coupling at ends - 2 Nos.
(v) Branch pipe 63 mm dia with 20 mm nominal
internal diameter nozzle, suitable for
instantaneous connection - 1 No.

All above components shall be housed in a suitable size MS cabinet made

from 2 mm thick sheet with glass panel on front. The cabinet shall be
painted red as per Para 1.13.

(Note:- In case hose pipes and branch pipes are likely to be stolen from yard
hydrants, the same may be kept in a central place i.e. fire control room/
fire pump room.)

2.4.1.9 Fire Service inlet :- In order to facilitate feeding of water in the system by fire
service, a 2/3 way 63 mm diameter collecting head shall be provided and
connected with each riser/down comer and the ring main with non-return
valve and butterfly/sluice valve. This should be located at a place where fire
brigade tender can reach.

2.4.1.10 Fire Service connection: It is for feeding water to underground storage tank by
fire tenders. The static water storage tank shall be provided with a fire brigade
collecting head with 4 number 63 mm diameter instantaneous male inlets
arranged in a valve box at a suitable point at street level. If tank is not
approachable for the fire engines, the fire brigade collecting head shall be
connected to the static tank by a suitable fixed galvanized iron pipe not
less than 150 mm in diameter to discharge water into the tank when
required.

15
 fffAppendic

2.4.1.11 Fire Brigade draw out collecting head: Each of the static water storage tanks
shall also be provided with a fire brigade draw out collecting head with 63 mm
diameter instantaneous male draw out arranged in a valve box at a suitable
point at street level. This draw out shall be connected to galvanized iron pipe
of 100 mm diameter with foot valve arrangement in the tank.

2.4.1.12 Air Vessel: - To counteract the water hammer effect, air vessel shall be
provided at the top of each riser.

2.4.1.13 Orifice Plate: - Suitable pressure reducing devices shall be provided for yard
as well as internal hydrants to control pressure to desired limit especially at
lower level hydrants. (refer Para 2.4.1.1 & 2.4.1.8.5 above)

2.4.1.14 Alarm for Wet Riser System: - To indicate the flow of water in the system,
turbine type alarm shall be provided at a prominent place outside the pump
house in the main line before any connection is taken. The alarm will
indicate the healthiness of the system and shall not be silenced till the main
fire pump is in operation.

2.4.1.15 Control system-

2.4.1.15.1 The system shall be designed for operation automatically so that as and
when water is drawn from the system through any hydrant, the pumps will
operate automatically and feed water in to the system. However once a
fire pump starts working, it will be stopped only manually (except jockey
pump) or on account of any fault or non-availability of power supply to
electrical pumps or low water level in UG/Terrace tank.

Facility shall also be provided for manual operation. A selector switch for
auto/manual selection shall be provided for each pump.

2.4.1.15.2 The control system shall be designed to provide the following sequence of
operation:
i) The Pressurization Pump shall maintain pressure in the system and shall
operate only on account of slow pressure loss. In case of sudden pressure
loss the Pressurization Pump shall not operate. The pump shall start when
the water pressure in the system falls to a pre-set value (about 0.35 kgf/cm2
below normal system pressure) and shut down when the system pressure
reaches the set value. Both limits shall be adjustable.
ii) Main Electric Fire Pump shall operate on account of sudden pressure loss.
So long as Main Electric Fire Pump is working, other Fire Pumps will not
operate. The pump shall start when the water pressure falls to a pre-set
value in the system (about 1 kgf/cm2).

16
 fffAppendic

In case, Normal Electric Supply fails while the Main Electric Fire Pump is
running, the DG Set for essential supply will start within 5 seconds.
iii) The Diesel Fire Pump will start on sudden pressure loss, only in case supply
to Main Electric Fire Pump is not available or within a pre-set time the
Main Electric Fire Pump fails to start or fails during operation. No other
pump will be working when Diesel Engine Fire Pump is in operation. Audio-
Visual Alarm shall be available to indicate failure of Main Electric Fire Pump.
iv) A three attempts starting facility will be provided for diesel pump.
v) If within a pre-set time, the standby pump also fails to start or fails to
develop pressure, the standby pump shall also be shut down and locked
out. An audio visual alarm indication shall be given at the control panel.
vi) The Terrace Pumps will start on sudden loss of pressure only when both
the Fire Pumps have either failed to start or exhausted water.
vii) In case sprinkler pump is also provided :
a) Sprinkler pump will start on pressure loss (about 1 kgf/cm2) in the
sprinkler header.
b) If sprinkler pump does not start in preset time or fails during operation,
the main electric fire pump shall start and feed water to sprinkler
system.
c) Diesel pump will start and feed water only in case supply to main electric
pump is not available or within a preset time the main electric pump
fails to start or fails during operation. No other pump will be working
when diesel pump is in operation. Audio-visual alarm shall be available to
indicate failure of both sprinkler and main electric pump.
viii) Only one pump will be working at a time. In manual mode more than one
pump can be started.
ix) Water level in UG and terrace tanks shall be monitored and in case of low
water level, pumps connected with the tank shall not operate (even on
manual mode) or stop operation as the case may be. An audio-visual
alarm shall be given at the control panel.

2.4.2 Wet Riser:- In wet riser system all components described in 2.4.1 shall be
provided except terrace pump. Terrace tank shall not be required.
Wet Riser shall be interconnected at terrace level to form a ring and cut-off
shall be provided for each connection to enable repair/maintenance
without affecting rest of the system.

2.4.3 Down Comer:- In down comer, underground tank, fire pumps at ground
level, ring main and yard hydrant will not be provided. Except these items,
all other items described in 2.4.1 shall be provided. Following points are
also to be taken in to consideration:

2.4.3.1 A minimum of two terrace pumps (eIectricaI) shall be provided. One pump

17
 fffAppendic

shall act as standby.

2.4.3.2 Down comer Pipes: - Consideration of Para 2.4.1.6 shall apply.

2.4.3.3 All down comer pipes shall be inter connected at the terrace level. In case
terraces are not interconnected, all building will be treated as individual
buildings.

2.4.3.4 Fire service inlet shall be provided with each Riser/down comer for
facilitating pumping of water from fire service tenders.

2.4.3.5 Control system: - The starting of terrace pump shall be automatic i.e. with
the opening of any hydrant valve or hose reel on any floor, the pump will start
automatically with fall in line pressure. In addition start/stop push buttons
shall be provided at ground floor near internal hydrant for starting the
pump manually. Where fire control room has been provided, remote
operation of terrace pump may be done from fire control room in place of
near internal hydrant. The control panel for terrace pumps shall be
provided near the pumps in a suitable enclosure to avoid unauthorized
operation.

2.4.4 Automatic Sprinkler :-

2.4.4.1 In addition to all provisions of Wet riser and Down comer system described
in Para 2.4.1, in automatic sprinkler system, water lines of various size are
laid throughout the area to be protected and sprinkler heads are provided at
regular interval so that water from sprinkler heads cover the entire area
under fire.

2.4.4.2 Sprinkler has two functions to perform i.e. to detect fire and then to provide
adequate distribution of water to control or extinguish it. Sprinkler heads
operate at pre- determined temperature to discharge water over the affected
area below. Only those sprinkler heads operate which are in the vicinity of
fire i.e. those which become sufficiently heated.

2.4.4.3 Lines for sprinklers shall be separate or common with wet riser system
depending upon requirements mentioned in Appendix-A.

2.4.4.4 The area to be protected by sprinkler is divided in to various zones. For

detecting operation of sprinkler in a zone, flow switches are provided which
are wired to an annunciation panel installed in the Fire Control Room. In the
event of operation of sprinkler(s) in an affected area, the annunciation panel

18
 fffAppendic

will give audio-visual alarm and indicate the affected zone. This
arrangement will be independent of fire alarm system.

2.4.4.5 The sprinkler shall be installed only where there is no danger of freezing of
water in the pipes at any time.

2.4.4.6 Details of sprinkler installations have been given in separate Chapter 9.

19
 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-3
ARCHITECTURAL AND STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 SCOPE
This chapter outlines the general guidelines for planning the space
requirements, equipment location, floor loading and other structural
requirements for firefighting systems.

3.2 Following provisions/spaces are required for firefighting system:

3.2.1 Static Water Storage Tanks: - In order to ensure satisfactory supply of water
for the pumps of firefighting, static water storage tanks exclusively for the
purpose of firefighting shall be provided. The tank shall be provided both
underground and/or at terrace. Reservoir for Wet Riser System shall be
lined. The effective capacities of the reservoir above the top of the pump
casing (flooded suction) for various types of occupancies shall be as
indicated in Appendix- A.
While deciding the capacities of underground and terrace tanks following
points shall also be taken into consideration:
(i) In case common pump house and underground tank are to be provided for
more than one building in a campus, the capacity of UG tank shall be
increased, if required in consultation with local Fire Brigade.
(ii) Arrangement shall be made for replenishment of water from alternative
source at the rate of 1000 lpm for underground tank. When this is not
feasible the capacities of storage tanks (both underground and terrace
tanks) shall be increased suitably in consultation with local Fire Brigade.
(iii) Water for firefighting shall be stored in two or more interconnected
compartments of equal size to facilitate cleaning and maintenance of the
tanks without interrupting the water availability for firefighting.
(iv) The underground fire water storage tank(s) shall not be more than 7 m in
depth from the level having fire brigade draw-out connection, while the
draw-out connection shall not be more than 5 m away from the tank wall.
Para 2.4.1.11 above may also be referred.

3.2.1.1 Following factors are to be considered for deciding the location of

underground water storage tank:
(i) The tank shall be by the side of road so that fire brigade personnel can draw
water from the tank or discharge water into the tank. Suitable manhole shall
be provided for this purpose.
(ii) When the slab of the tank forms a part of pathway/drive way, it shall be
designed to withstand the vehicular load of 45 tonnes (or as applicable)
equally divided as a four-point load.

20
 fffAppendic

(iii) Arrangement shall be made to replenish water by mains or alternative

source.
(iv) Suitable arrangement shall be made to prevent stagnation of water in the
tank. For this purpose, the tank of domestic or other water supply may be fed
from the over flow of static water storage tank to ensure water level there in.
Figure 7 may be referred to.
(v) The static water storage is meant for firefighting only and is not to be used
for any other purpose except when the tank is to be cleaned.
(vi) There shall be no leakage in the tank.

3.2.1.2 Following factors are to be considered for deciding the location of terrace
tank:
(i) The terrace tank should be easily accessible.
(ii) Connection to terrace pump shall be conveniently made.
(iii) Factors at 3.2.1.2 (iii) to (vi) shall also be considered.
(iv) The terrace tank may be of masonary, cement concrete, M.S. or plastic
depending upon relevant considerations.

3.2.2 Pump House: - For installation of firefighting pumps (Main Electrical Pump,
Diesel Engine Driven and Pressurization Pump) along with Electrical &
Control Panel, valves, diesel tank etc., pump house is required. Following
factors are to be considered:
(i) In order to provide positive (flooded) suction to fire pumps, the pump
house shall be at a level below or equal to that of static water storage tank.
(ii) The pump house at ground level shall be easily accessible for firefighting
operations and at least 6 meters away from all surrounding buildings and
overhead structures. In case, the 6m spacing of pump room from
surrounding buildings is not feasible, the provisions of Para 5.1.12 of IS
13039:2014 shall be followed.
(iii) The pump house shall not be located in the building to be protected.
However, the pump house can be located in the basement subject to
conditions of Clause 12.2.2 of IS 15105.
(iv) General water supply pumps can be installed in the same pump house.
(v) Size of the pump house shall be not less than 6.0 m (W) x 8 m (L) x 3.5 m
(H). If two electrical pumps are to be provided, the length of the pump
house shall be not less than 12 m. If the water supply pumps are to be
installed in the same pump house, then either the width of pump house be
increased by 1 m or length be increased by 2 m or suitably as is necessary.
(vi) Suitable ramp with proper slope and/or cutout in roof shall be provided for
lowering the equipment in to the pump house. Stair case with entry door at
ground level and locking arrangement shall be provided.
(vii) Ventilators at least 500 mm height shall be provided on three sides for natural
light. Adequate ventilation for dissipation of heat due to operation of

21
 fffAppendic

motors/engine shall be provided.

(viii) Proper water proofing shall be provided. A sump of size 0.6 m x 0.6 m x 0.3
m with 1(Working)+1(Standby) dewatering pumps shall be provided in the
pump house in one corner adjacent with the tank wall. The floor slope will
lead towards the sump so that water leakage can be pumped out.
(ix) In order to ensure that there is no leakage of water in the pump house, no
pipe/ cable shall cross the pump house below ground level. Suitable
opening in wall above ground level shall be provided for crossing of
pipes/cables.
(x) Installation of negative suction arrangement and submersible pumps shall
not be allowed.
(xi) There shall be no beam under the floor of pump house.
(xii) The floor of the pump house shall be designed for loading of 1500 kgf/sq.m.
Foundation of pumps shall be raised over finished floor and in no case
flooring or RCC walls shall be damaged while installing equipment in the
pump house.
(xiii) Pump house shall be separated by fire walls all around and doors shall be
protected by fire doors (120 min rating).
(xiv) The pump house shall be clearly marked by luminous sign.
(xv) Typical layout of fire pump house has been shown in Figure-10.

3.2.3 Terrace Pump - Terrace pump is to be installed near terrace tank. The tank
shall be at higher level to provide positive suction to the pump. No separate
pump house is required for terrace pump. However suitable enclosure for
protection of pump is to be provided. The pump may be located in stair case
mumty if suitable space is available. The pump may be located near beam so
that its load is not transferred to slab.

3.2.4 Internal Hydrant - Internal hydrants are provided to fight fire from within the
building. Following factors are considered for deciding location of internal
hydrant:
(i) Internal hydrants are provided at every floor at the same location and
connected with risers.
(ii) Hydrant for firefighting shall be located in the lobby in firefighting shaft.
Those hydrants planned to be provided near fire exit staircase on the floor
shall be within 5 m from exit door in exit access.
(iii) Numbers and location of risers shall be decided as per Para 2.4.1.6. Every
wing of the building shall preferably be provided with independent hydrants.
Hydrant shall be located in the center of the building so that one hydrant can
cover area on both sides.
(iv) A masonry enclosure on three sides of size minimum 1200 mm wide and 800
mm deep and 2100 mm height shall be provided. Cut-out of size 200 mm x
200 mm be provided in one corner in the slab for down comer/wet riser

22
 fffAppendic

pipe. If sprinkler installations are to be provided, additional cut out of

similar size for sprinkler pipe and drain pipe as the case may be, shall be
provided. Steel shutter with 1250 mm glazing on top with locking
arrangement shall be provided in front of the hydrant. The shutter shall be
painted red as per para 1.13. Typical arrangement has been shown in
Figure-8.
(v) Internal hydrant shall be easily accessible. A clear space of at least 1.5 m
should be available in front of the internal hydrant for operation. Internal
hydrant shall not be provided in a lockable room.
(vi) Internal hydrant shall be clearly marked with the inscription of “FIRE HOSE
CABINET” of letter size 75 mm in height and 12 mm in width by luminous
sign. Suitable lighting arrangement shall be provided in front of the internal
hydrant. The location of such cabinets shall be shown on floor plan and duly
displayed in the landing of the respective fire exit staircase.

3.3 BUILDING TO BE SPRINKLER PROTECTED

The sprinkler pipes are installed throughout the area to be protected. The
structure shall be designed to support sprinkler pipes and the contained
water. Inbuilt drainage with slope shall be provided throughout the area so
that in the event of operation of sprinkler, water is drained out without
spreading to other parts of the building. Storage racks/platforms shall be
sufficiently raised above floor.
It is essential to make provisions for avoiding water from Sprinkler/hydrant
operation entering lifts and electrical rooms.

3.4 FIRE CONTROL ROOM

For all buildings 15 m in height or above, and apartment buildings with height
30 m and above, a fire control room (size 4 m x 4 m Approximately) shall be
provided on the entrance floor of the building. One store for keeping spares for
firefighting system shall also be provided adjacent with the fire control
room.

23
 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-4
PLANNING, DESIGNING AND COORDINATION

4.1 INTRODUCTION
Planning of firefighting system is to be done right at the stage when the
building plans are prepared by the Architect. Subsequently during
preparation of working drawings, all architectural and structural provisions
described in Chapter 3 are also to be kept in the building plans.

Careful planning from the initial stage itself will avoid changes and problems
at a later stage. This chapter covers aspects of planning, designing and
coordination of firefighting system.

4.2 SCHEME
The provision of firefighting installation depends upon building use, height,
floor area etc. Considering these factors, the system or a combination of
systems which will be required to be adopted should be finally selected in
accordance with National Building Code and regulations of local fire
authorities, if applicable.

4.3 APPROVAL OF LOCAL BODIES

In the building plans which are submitted to local bodies for approval, details
of firefighting system proposed in the building are also indicated. Local
bodies normally refer the same to Chief Fire Officer and recommendations
of Chief Fire Officer are conveyed to the officer who submitted the plans.
The proposed system should incorporate the recommendation of Chief Fire
officer.

4.4 ARCHITECTURAL PROVISION

4.4.1 For any firefighting system, underground tank and pump house are required.
These may be located anywhere in the campus subject to proper approach.
The pump house should preferably be near the sub-station. It will be a good
practice if all building services including firefighting are located at one place
in the campus.

4.4.2 In campus having more than one building to be protected, it is not required
to have individual system for every building. A number of building in the
campus can be protected by common fire pumps. However yard
hydrants/internal hydrants and terrace pump shall be provided in each
building. When the buildings are close by, the yard hydrants can be located in
such a way that one yard hydrant cover more than one building.

24
 fffAppendic

4.4.3 In a large campus, buildings of different heights may be proposed. As per

National Building Code, provision of firefighting system may not be required
in building with lesser heights. Provisions of firefighting system as indicated
in NBC are mandatory minimum required for any building which does not
debar higher provisions. An unsafe building in a campus will become
potential danger to the safety of other buildings. If firefighting system is
being provided in a campus on account of one or more buildings, it is
desirable to extend the facility to other buildings also where this may not be
required as a mandatory provision. This will ensure safety of all the building
in the campus.

4.4.4 The shafts for vertical risers are to be provided in the building. Their
number and location be decided as per guidelines given in Chapter 2 and
3.

4.4.5 Location of yard hydrant shall be selected in accordance with provision of Para
2.4.1.8.

4.4.6 Route of pipe connection from ring main to the riser shall be selected properly.
Position of tie beam or any other structural member shall be checked so that
it does not come in the way of pipes.

4.4.7 For vertical riser pipe passage, opening of 200 mm x 200 mm shall be left in
slab in the internal hydrant shaft as per Para 3.2.4(iii). The opening shall be
located vertically one above the other. In buildings where sprinkler system is to
be installed, additional opening of same size is to be provided within the
nitch at the other corner for sprinkler pipe.

4.4.8 Details of internal hydrant door with glass is to be provided to concerned

architect/division in advance. This may be modified for architectural
considerations provided the glass height is not changed. Hydrants for
firefighting and hose reels shall be located in the lobby in firefighting shaft.
Those hydrants planned to be provided near fire exit staircase on the floor
shall be within 5 m from exit door in exit access. Such hydrant cabinet may
finish with doors to meet interior finishes with requirement of glass panel to
provide visibility to the installations inside and inscribed with the word:
“FIRE HOSE CABINET” of letter size 75 mm in height and 12 mm in width.
Such door of the fire hose cabinet need not be fire resistant rated. The
location of such cabinets shall be shown on floor plan and duly displayed in
the landing of the respective fire exit staircase.

4.4.9 Sprinkler pipes are laid throughout the area to be protected. The route of

25
 fffAppendic

pipes is to be pre-decided in consultation with the Architect. For vertical

pipes, shafts for risers are to be used. Layout of horizontal pipe and location
of sprinkler head are to be decided keeping in view of location of fans and
fitting. In case false ceiling is being provided in the area, horizontal pipes may
be laid above false ceiling and only sprinkler head is provided below false
ceiling. If the building is centrally air-conditioned, location of duct and air
termination may be taken into account. Reflected ceiling plan shall be
prepared indicating all services above false ceiling.

4.5 DESIGNING
4.5.1 Requirement of components for various firefighting systems has been given
in Para - 2.3. Capacity of pumps shall be worked out in accordance with Para-
2.4.1.

4.5.2 Fire pumps shall be provided with positive suction and automatic starting
devices capable of sequential starting of the pumps.

4.5.3 Insertions like flexible couplings/connections, bellows, etc., in the suction

and delivery piping shall be suitably planned and installed.

4.5.4 The pipe sizes shall be selected as under :-

(i) Suction and delivery pipes of pumps shall not be less than following.
Pump Discharge Suction dia Delivery dia
(mm) (mm)
(a) 450 lpm 50 50
(b) 900 lpm 75 50
(c) 1400 Ipm 100 100
(d) 2280 lpm 150 150
(e) 2850 lpm 200 150
(f) 4540 Ipm 250 200
(ii) Pipe connecting pump house to ring main shall be not less than 150 mm
diameter. Higher size pipe shall be selected depending upon length of
pipe and friction loss. Size of Ring main and Risers shall be as given in
table below:
Table 4.1
S. No. Size of the Type of Building Remarks
Mains/Risers
(1) (mm) (3) (4)
(2)
i) 100 mm a) Residential building (A):
with single 1) Dormitories -
outlet 2) Apartments -
landing 3) Hotels Up to 45 m height

26
 fffAppendic

valves b) Educational buildings (B) -

c) Institutional buildings (C) Up to 30 m height
d) Assembly buildings (D) -
e) Business buildings (E) Up to 45 m height
f) Mercantile buildings (F) -
g) Industrial buildings (G) Up to 15 m height
ii) 150 mm a) Hotels Above 45 m height
with single b) Starred Hotels -
outlet c) Institutional buildings (C) Above 30 m height
landing d) Business buildings (E) Above 45 m height
valves e) Industrial buildings (G) Above 15 m height
f) Storage buildings (H) Up to 15 m height
g) Hazardous buildings (J) Up to 15 m height

(iii) Down comer pipe size shall be of 100 mm dia.

(iv) Where wet riser/down comers are not to be provided but hose reel and
terrace tanks are to be provided, pipe of size 65 mm diameter shall be
provided in between the pump and hose reel.

(v) Fire service inlet and fire service connection shall be with pipe size not
less than 150 mm diameter.

(vi) All Tee off connections for landing valves from vertical risers and for
external hydrants from ring main shall be with pipe size not less than 80
mm diameter.

4.5.5 Selection of Material:- Components like landing valve, hose coupling

branch pipes etc. are available in three material i.e. Aluminum Alloy, Gun
metal and Stainless steel. Aluminum Alloy is prone to wear and tear and
weather conditions faster than other two materials. However being
cheaper, Aluminum Alloy may be used in location where chances of
pilferage are more. Stainless steel may be considered at location not very
safe from theft. Gunmetal may be used in installations which are well
protected.

4.5.6 Hose Pipes/ Branch pipes:- A minimum of two number of 63 mm diameter,

15 m long hose pipe with instantaneous coupling at both ends and one
number branch pipe with nozzle shall be kept with every internal and
external hydrant.

4.5.7 Orifice Plate:- The pressure in a firefighting system varies from point to
point. The pressure will be maximum in the pump house and minimum at
the farthest hydrant at terrace level. To reduce pressure to safe operating

27
 fffAppendic

pressure at every internal/external hydrant, orifice plates are provided

before connection of landing valve between the flanges of landing valve and
pipe flange. The size of orifice shall be calculated as per details given in
Table 4.2.
TABLE 4.2
SELECTION OF ORIFICE PLATE
Pressure Loss Diameter of Orifice (mm)
2
Kgf/cm Pipe Size
80 mm 100 mm
3.5 41.9
3.0 43.0
2.5 44.80
2.0 46.40
1.5 48.90 56.20
1.0 52.30 57.60
0.9 53.20 59.00
0.8 54.10 60.40
0.7 55.30 62.00
0.6 56.60 63.90
0.5 58.20 66.50
0.4 59.80 69.70
0.3 62.00 74.20
0.2 65.00 81.10
0.1 82.20

Other suitable means may also be used for reducing the pressure apart from
orifice plates.

4.5.8 Fire pumps shall be provided with positive suction.

4.6 COORDINATION

4.6.1 Award of Work:- Depending upon progress of building work, the work of
firefighting should be awarded well in time.

4.6.2 Power and Water supply for Erection: - If the department is to provide power
and water for erection, the same should be made available before start of
the work since without these facilities, firefighting work cannot be started.

4.6.3 The Pump house and underground tank where main equipment is to be
installed should be available immediately after the work has been awarded.

28
 fffAppendic

During Construction of underground tank, 2 Nos. 200 mm diameter MS -C

Class pipe with flanges on both sides shall be embedded for connection with
suction header of the fire pumps. In case separate sprinkler pumps are to
be provided, additional pipes shall be embedded as per actual requirement.
The pipe shall be extended at least 100 mm on both sides of the finished
wall.

4.6.4 The underground tank and Pump house shall be tested for any
leakage/seepage before start of the work. It shall be ensured that both tank
and pump house are free from leakage/seepage.

4.6.5 The work of laying of pipe for sprinklers should be taken up in coordination
with the duct installation in case of building being provided with central air-
conditioning, otherwise after plaster work is over and one coat of white
wash has been applied.

4.6.6 The sprinkler pipes should be tested area wise and capped for connection
to pipes of adjoining area.

4.6.7 The route of external pipe i.e. pipe from pump house and ring main should be
decided in coordination with other building services. Guide lines of Chapter
2 and 4 are to be followed. It will be desirable to prepare a services drawing
where all services i.e. sewage, drainage, water supply lines, UG cable, pipes
for air-conditioning and firefighting are reflected.

4.6.8 Riser pipes shall be installed after the riser shafts are available duly
plastered.

4.6.9 For laying of external pipes, excavation up to a depth of 1.25 m or more is

to be carried out. This may cause hindrance in execution of other building
works. External pipes shall therefore be laid in a phased manner in
coordination with other agencies. The pipes shall be tested and earth filled
back before excavation for next phase is taken up. Equipment for testing
etc. should be available in advance before start of underground pipe laying
work.

4.6.10 All underground pipes are to be laid much before starting of finishing work i.e.
pavement, road/ horticulture work etc. around the building.

4.6.11 The work of installation of equipment in pump house should be carried out
simultaneously and kept ready for connection to the pipe network.

4.6.12 Before occupation, the building is to be inspected by the representative of

29
 fffAppendic

Chief Fire Officer and local bodies. The building will be issued N.O.C. for
occupation only when all safety provisions including firefighting work are
complete to the satisfaction of Chief Fire Officer. As such, firefighting work
is to be completed and commissioned with temporary power supply well
before other building works and services are complete.

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 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-5
FIRE PUMPS

5.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers the general requirements of water pumps for main fire
pump, jockey pump and terrace pump.

5.2 TYPE
Pumps conforming to IS 12469 shall be exclusively used for Firefighting
purposes. The pumps shall be centrifugal type direct driven with a 3 phase,
415 V + 10%, 50 Hz, A.C. motor. The standby fire pump shall be driven by
diesel engine. The pumps may be either of horizontal split casing (HSC) type
with operating speed not exceeding 1500 rpm, or solid casing with operating
speed not exceeding 3000 rpm as specified in the tender documents.

5.3 RATING
The main fire pump and terrace pump shall be suitable for continuous
operation in the system. The jockey pump shall be suitable for intermittent
operation to build up pressure in the system on account of leakage. The head
and discharge requirements shall be as specified in the tender documents.
The head shall be suitable for the system and shall take into consideration the
pressure drops across the various components in the water circuit as well as
the frictional losses.

The rated discharge of Electric Driven and Diesel Engine Driven pump shall be
as specified in Table given in Annexure-A. Pump shall be capable of discharging
not less than 150 percent of the rated discharge at a head of not less than 65
percent of the rated head. The shut off head shall not exceed 120 percent of
the rated head in the case of horizontal Pumps.

5.4 MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION

(i) The centrifugal pumps shall conform to IS 1520.

(ii) The pump casing shall be of heavy section close grained cast iron and designed
to withstand 1.5 times the working pressure. The casing shall be provided
with shaft seal arrangement as well as flanges for suction and delivery pipe
connections as required.
(iii) The impeller shall be of bronze, brass or stainless steel. This shall be
shrouded type with machined collars. Wear rings, where fitted to the
impeller, shall be of the same material as the impeller. The impeller surface
shall be smooth finished for minimum frictional loss. The impeller shall be

31
 fffAppendic

secured to the shaft by a key.

(iv) The shaft shall be of stainless steel and shall be accurately machined. The shaft
shall be balanced to avoid vibrations at any speed within the operating range
of the pump.
(v) The shaft sleeve and wearing ring etc. shall be of bronze, brass or stainless
steel.
(vi) The bearings shall be ball or roller type suitable for the duty involved. These
shall be grease lubricated and shall be provided with grease nipples/cups.
The bearings shall be effectively sealed against leakage of lubricant or entry of
dust or water.
(vii) The shaft seal shall be mechanical type, so as to allow minimum leakage. A
drip well shall be provided beneath the seal.
(viii) The pumps shall be directly coupled to the motor/diesel engine shaft
through a flexible coupling protected by a coupling guard.
(ix) The pump and motor/diesel engine shall be mounted on a common robust
bed plate fabricated from mild steel section. The bed plate shall have rigid,
flat and true surfaces to receive the pump and motor/diesel engine mounting
feet. The pump will be perfectly aligned with the motor/engine so as to avoid
any vibration during operation at all variations of load.

5.5 ACCESSORIES

Each pump shall be provided with the following accessories: -

(a) Sluice valves on suction and delivery.
(b) Reducers, as may be required to match the sizes of the connected pipe work.
(c) Non-return valve at the delivery.
(d) Pressure gauge at delivery side between pump and the non-return valve.
(e) Flexible coupling/connections shall be provided between Pump sets and
Valves on suction and delivery sides of all the pump sets.
Note:
1) No butterfly valves shall be installed inside the pump room.
2) The size of the non-return valve and cut off (Sluice valve) shall not be less
than the size of the initial delivery pipe.

5.6 INSTALLATION

(i) The pump and motor/engine assembly shall be mounted and arranged for
ease of maintenance and to prevent transmission of vibration and noise to the
building structure or to the pipe work.
(ii) The pump and motor/engine assembly shall be installed on suitable RCC
foundation. The length and width of the foundation shall be such that 100
mm space is left all around the base frame. The height of foundation shall
be so decided that the total weight of foundation block is 1.5 times the

32
 fffAppendic

operating weight of the pump assembly. The foundation shall be isolated from
the floor by vibration isolating pads. Angle iron frame of size 35 mm x 35
mm x 3 mm shall be provided on the top edges of the foundation.
(iii) More than one pump and motor assembly shall not be installed on a single
base or cement concrete block.
(iv) The suction/discharge pipe shall be independently supported and their
weight shall not be transferred to the pump. It should be possible to
disconnect any pump for repairs without disturbing the connecting pipe
line.
(v) A minimum clearance of 1 m around the main pumps shall be provided. For
jockey pump-clearance of 75 cm shall be adequate.
(vi) Sufficient space is to be left in front for the radiator of diesel engine for free
discharge of hot air. Arrangement for discharging hot air to outside the
pump house shall be provided so that hot air does not stagnate in the pump
house.

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 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-6
DIESEL ENGINE FOR FIRE PUMP

6.1 SCOPE

This chapter covers the details of requirements of a diesel engine for main fire
pump to act as standby.

6.2 GENERAL

The diesel engine shall be suitable for automatic operation complete with
necessary automatic starting gear, battery system and shall be complete with
all accessories. Both engine and pump shall be assembled on a common bed
plate, fabricated from mild steel channel.

6.3 DRIVE

The pump shall be only direct driven by means of a flexible coupling. The
coupling between the engine and the pump shall allow each unit to be
removed without disturbing the other. Coupling guard shall be provided. The
speed shall be 1500 RPM.

6.4 DIESEL ENGINE

6.4.1 Environment conditions- The engine shall be suitable to operate under the
conditions of environment at site.

6.4.2 Engine Rating- The engine shall be multi cylinder/vertical 4 stroke cycle,
water cooled, developing suitable HP at the operating speed specified to drive
the fire pump. Continuous capacity available for the load shall be exclusive of the
power requirement of auxiliaries of the diesel engine, and after correction for
altitude, ambient temperature and humidity for specified environment
conditions. The engine rating shall be suitable to drive the pump at 150 percent
of its rated discharge with at least 65 percent of rated head or 20% in excess of
the maximum brake horsepower required to drive the pump at its duty point,
whichever is higher. The engine shall have 10% overload capacity for one hour
in any period of 12 hours continuous run.
The engine shall be:
a) naturally aspirated, supercharged or turbo-charged and rather air or water-
cooled.
b) provided with an in-built tachometer to indicate rpm of the engine.

34
 fffAppendic

c) suitable for cold starting for which suitable heaters shall be provided in
lubricating oil.
d) able to develop full load within 15 seconds from the receipt of the signal to
start.
e) The diesel engine shall conform to BS 649/ IS 1601/ IS 10002, amended up
to date.

6.4.3 Engine Accessories- The engine shall be complete with following accessories:
(i) Fly wheel dynamically balanced
(ii) Direct coupling for pump and coupling guard
(iii) Radiator with hoses, fan, water pump, drive arrangement and guard
(iv) Air cleaner dry type
(v) Fuel service tank with necessary pipe work
(vi) Fuel filter
(vii) Pump for lubricating oil and lub. oil filter
(viii) Electric starting battery 12 V/24 V with 2 Nos. batteries
(ix) Exhaust silencer with necessary pipe work
(ix) Governor
(x) Instrument panel housing all the gauges, including Tachometer, hour meter
and starting switch with key (for manual starting)
(xi) Necessary safety controls
(xii) Winterisation arrangement
(xiii) Hand operated semi rotary pump for filling the service tank
(xiv) A standard kit of tools (this shall be kept on hand at all times)

6.4.4 Cooling System- The engine shall be radiator water cooled. The radiator
assembly shall be mounted on the engine. The radiator fan shall be driven by
the engine as its auxiliary with multiple fan belts. When half the belts are
broken, the remaining belts shall be capable of driving the fan. Cooling water
shall be circulated by means of an auxiliary pump of suitable capacity driven
by the engine in a closed circuit.

6.4.5 Fuel System- The fuel system shall be gravity fed from the fuel tank to the
engine driven fuel pump. The engine fuel tank shall be mounted either
adjacent to the engine or suitably wall mounted on brackets. The fuel filter
shall be suitably located to permit easy servicing.

The fuel tank shall be of welded steel construction (3mm thick) and of
capacity sufficient to allow the engine to run on full load for at least 8 hours.
The tank shall be complete with necessary floor mounted supports, level
indicator (protected against mechanical injury) inlet, outlet, overflow
connections and drain plug and piping to the engine fuel tank. The outlet
should be so located as to avoid entry of any sediments into the fuel line to

35
 fffAppendic

the engine.

Any valve in the fuel feed pipe between the fuel tank and the engine shall be
placed adjacent to the tank and it shall be locked in the open position.

All fuel tubing to the engine shall be with M.S.'C’ class pipe with flexible hose
connections where required. Pipe joints shall not be soldered and plastic
tubing shall not be used.

The following shall be provided:

i) A sludge and sediment trap shall be provided.
ii) An inspection and cleaning hole
iii) Means to enable the entire fuel system to be bled of air (Air relief cocks
are not allowed; screwed plugs are permitted)

6.4.6 Lubricating Oil System- Forced feed lubricating Oil system shall be employed
for positive lubrication. Necessary lubricating oil filters shall be provided,
located suitably for convenient servicing.

6.4.7 Starting System- The starting system shall comprise of necessary batteries 12
Volts/ 24 Volts, starter motor of adequate capacity and axle type gear to
match with the toothed ring on the fly wheel. Suitable protection to protect
starting motor from excessively long cranking runs shall be suitably
integrated with engine protection system.
The capacity of the battery shall be suitable for meeting the needs of the
starting system.
The battery capacity shall be adequate for 10 consecutive starts without
recharging with cold engine under full compression.
Three attempt starting facility shall be provided. If the engine fails to start
after third attempt, the engine shall be locked out and suitable audio-visual
alarm shall be given to indicate engine failure. The starter motor used for
automatic starting may also be used for manual starting provided there are
separate batteries for manual starting.
The scope shall cover all cabling, terminals, initial charging etc.

6.4.8 Exhaust System- The exhaust system shall be complete with residential
grade silencer suitable for outdoor installation and silencer piping shall be
extended up to 1 m, outside pump house duly insulated with 50 mm thick
glass wool and 1.0 mm thick aluminum sheet cladding.
Retrofitted emission-control equipment shall be used having a minimum
specified PM-capturing efficiency of at least 70%, type approved by one of
the five CPCB recognized labs. (Recommendations of National Clean Air
Program 2019 launched by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate

36
 fffAppendic

Change)

6.4.9 Engine shut down mechanism- This shall be manually operated and shall
return automatically to the starting position after use.

6.4.10 Governing System- The engine shall be provided with an adjustable governor
to control the engine speed within 5% of its rated speed under all conditions of
load up to full load. The governor shall be set to maintain rated pump speed at
maximum pump load.

6.4.11 Engine Instrumentation - Engine instrumentation shall include the folIowing:-

(i) Lub.oil pressure gauge
(ii) Lub.oil temperature gauge
(iii) Water temperature gauge
(iv) Tachometer
(v) Hour meter
The instrumentation panel shall be suitably mounted on the engine.

6.4.12 Engine protection devices - Following engine protection and automatic shut
down facilities shall be provided:-
(i) Low lub. oil pressure.
(ii) High cooling water temperature.
(iii) High lub. oil temperature.
(iv) Over speed shut down
6.4.13 Pipe work- All pipe lines with fittings and accessories required shall be
provided for fuel oil, lub.oil and exhaust systems.

6.4.14 Anti vibration mounting- Suitable vibration mounting duly approved by

engineer-in-charge shall be employed for mounting the unit so as to
minimize transmission of vibration to the structure.

6.4.15 Battery Charger-

Battery of diesel engine operated fire pump shall have separate charger from
emergency power supply circuit. Necessary float and boost charger shall be
incorporated in the control section of power and control panel with manual
selection of boost charge, to keep the battery under trim condition.
Voltmeter to indicate the state of charge of the batteries shall be provided.
Where separate batteries are provided for automatic and manual starting,
the charging equipment shall be capable of trickle charging both the batteries
simultaneously. Equipment shall be provided to enable the state of charge of
the batteries to be determined.

6.4.16 The engine installation shall be approved by the representative of engine

37
 fffAppendic

manufacturer (who shall carry out after sales service under AMC).

6.4.17 The following spare parts shall be supplied with the engine and kept on hand:
a) Two sets of fuel filters, elements and seals;
b) Two sets of lubricating oil filters, elements and seals;
c) Two sets of belts(where used);
d) One complete set of engine-joints, gaskets and hoses;
e) Two injector nozzles;
f) One complete set of piston rings for each cylinder; and
g) One inlet valve and one exhaust valve).

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 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-7
PIPE WORK

7.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers the requirements of pipe work in firefighting
installations.

7.2 PLUMBING DESIGN

Pipe sizes shown in tender documents are purely for contractor's guidance.
The contractor shall be responsible for selection of sizes as per detailed
engineering to be done by him. Plumbing design to be done by the
contractor shall incorporate the following: -
(i) (a)Sluice valves shall be provided at suction and delivery sides of pumps.
(b)External hydrant
(c)Fire service connection/inlet.
(d)Test valve.
(e)Drain connections.
(ii) For testing the system healthiness and automatic operation on daily
basis, one test pipe with sluice valve shall be provided in common discharge
header. For avoiding wastage of water, this pipe shall discharge water in
the tank.
(iii) Non-return valve shall be provided at the delivery of each pump and fire
service inlet. This shall be of swing type.
(iv) Air release valves with ball valve shall be provided in the piping system for
venting trapped air with a size of 25 mm for pipes up to 100 mm and 40
mm for larger pipes.
(v) Plumbing drawings showing the sizes of pipe, valves, layout and other
details shall be prepared and shall be got approved from the Engineer-in-
Charge before the execution of the plumbing work.

7.3 PIPE MATERIALS

Pipes shall be of the following materials:
(a) Mild steel heavy class (C-class) conforming to IS:1239 for sizes up to 150
mm.
(b) Welded black steel pipe, Class 2, conforming to IS: 3589, for sizes greater
than 150 mm. These pipes shall be factory rolled and fabricated from
minimum 6mm thick M.S. Sheet for pipes upto 350 mm diameter and
from minimum 7 mm thick M.S. sheet for pipes of 400 mm diameter
and above.
MS pipes may be allowed for extension of existing systems which are laid
with CI pipes.

39
 fffAppendic

(c) Cast iron double flanged pipe, Class-A conforming to IS 1536 or IS: 1537 (to
be provided only in underground application).
Note: For pipe work of Automatic Sprinkler System inside the building,
Stainless Steel Pipes and fittings of grade AISI 304 as per JIS standard
3448 are also permitted particularly where replacement of pipes is not
easy like areas above false ceiling etc., subject to the condition that these
pipes with associated fittings are suitable to safely withstand the system
test pressures.
(d) (i) GI Pipe medium Class (B-class) conforming to IS:1239 (For Drain)
(ii) Cadmium plated steel nuts/bolts/washers shall be used.
(iii) Flex drop of stainless steel metallic pipe with mounting
accessories, frame for installation on false ceiling.

7.4 PIPE JOINTS

i) Electric welding joints shall be provided in the MS pipe work. Flanged joints
shall be provided for connections to valves, pumps, air vessels etc. and also
on straight lengths at suitable points to facilitate erection and subsequent
maintenance.
ii) For connection of C.I.Pipe, fittings shall also be of C. I. heavy grade
conforming to IS:1538. The flanges shall be smooth faced and neoprene
gasket shall be provided between joints. All bolt holes in flanges shall be
drilled. The drilling of each flange shall be in accordance with the relevant
Indian Standards. Where un-avoidable and to connect underground pipe
with risers, MS pipe may be used in the form of distant pieces. The joint
between C.I. and MS pipe shall be flanged type. MS pipe laid at such
locations shall be provided anti-corrosive treatment as per Para 7.5.
iii) Mild steel flanges shall be in accordance with Table - 17 of IS : 6392 i.e.
“Plate Flanges for Welding" and flange thickness shall be as under. Gasket
thickness shall not be less than 3 mm.
Pipe diameter Flange Thickness
200 mm 24 mm
150 mm and 125 mm 22 mm
100 mm and 80 mm 20 mm
65 mm 18 mm
40 mm and below 16 mm
iv) Fittings installed underground shall be of cast iron ‘heavy’ grade conforming
to IS 1538 whereas those installed above ground shall normally be of
medium grade wrought steel or mild steel conforming to IS 1239 (Part 2) or
malleable iron fittings conforming to IS 1879.
v) All hardware items such as Nuts, Bolts, Washers shall be of appropriate size.
Washers shall be used on both sides of the bolt.

7.5 ANTI-CORROSIVE PROTECTION ON UNDER GROUND MS PIPE

Corrosion protection tape shall be wrapped on MS pipes to be buried in

40
 fffAppendic

ground. This corrosion protection tape shall comprise of coal tar/asphalt

component supported on fabric of organic or inorganic fibre and minimum 4
mm thick and conform to requirement of IS : 10221-Code of practice for
coating and wrapping of underground mild steel pipe line. Before application
of corrosion protection tape all foreign matter on pipe shall be removed with
the help of wire brush and suitable primer shall be applied over the pipe
thereafter. The primer shall be allowed to dry until the solvent evaporates and
the surface becomes tacky. Both primer and tape shall be furnished by the
same manufacturer. Corrosion protection tape shall then be wound around
the pipe in spiral fashion and bounded completely to the pipe. There shall be
no air pocket or bubble beneath the tape. The overlaps shall be 15 mm and
250 mm shall be left uncoated on either end of pipe to permit installation and
welding. This area shall be coated insitu after the pipe line is installed. The
tapes shall be wrapped in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations. If application is done in cold weather, the surface of the
pipe shall be pre- heated until it is warm to touch and traces of moisture are
removed and then primer shall be applied and allowed to dry.
Holiday Testing for wrapping and coating is essential. Holiday testing may
preferably be carried by flexible and detachable ring probe, which will enable
the entire 360o of the surface of the pipe to be scanned.
At least 10 percent of all the welded joints shall be radio graphically tested and
half of the joints radio graphed shall be the ‘field joints’.

7.6 VALVES
Each pump shall be provided with a non-return valve and a sluice valve on the
delivery side, the sluice valve being installed on the upstream side of the non-
return valve. A pressure gauge shall also be provided between the pump and
the non-return valve. The size of the non-return valve and cut off (sluice) valve
shall not be less than the size of the initial delivery pipe and, in no case, less
than the delivery outlet of the pump. No butterfly valves shall be installed
inside the pump room.
Sluice valve shall conform to IS: 780.
Butterfly valve, wherever used, shall conform to IS:13095.
All valves shall be suitable to with-stand the pressure in the system and rating
shall be PN 1.6. All valves shall be right handed (i.e. handle or key shall be
rotated clock wise to close the valve), the direction of opening and closing
shall be marked and an open/shunt indicator fitted.
(i) The material of valves shall be as under:
Body - Cast iron
Disc - Cast Bronze or Stainless Steel
Seat - Either integral or Nitrile rubber
O-ring - Nitrite/ Silicon
(ii) Non return valves shall be swing check type in horizontal run and lift check
type in vertical run of pipes.

41
 fffAppendic

(iii) Air release valves shall be of gunmetal body.

7.7 ISOLATION VALVES :

(i) Isolation valves shall be provided in the network to enable isolation of any
section of the network without affecting the flow in the rest. These valves
are distributed according to the general layout of the installation. The
isolation valves shall be normally located near the loop junctions. Additional
valves shall be provided in the segments where the length of the segment
exceeds 300 m.
(ii) Cut-off valves shall conform to IS 780 (PN 1.6 rating)/IS 14846, Class 3.
(iii) Butterfly valves can be accepted subject to the condition that the valves of
diameter exceeding 150 mm shall necessary be of gear operated.
(iv) All Cut-off valves shall be of the right-hand type and enclosed in properly
constructed surface boxes, at least 1 m2 in area so as to allow for broken
joints being easily remade. The top of the surface box shall be 80 mm above
ground level, except where it is located on a road. Valve wheels shall have
an arrowhead engraved or cast thereon showing direction for turning open
and close.
It is recommended that the position of the surface box be indicated by an
iron plate painted fire red with distinct lettering. Such plates shall also show
the open and close direction as cast or indicated on the valves and the
serial number of the sluice valve.
(v) Locations where vehicles can pass shall be avoided for provision of valve
below ground. (CPWD Specs Para 7.10 (xii))
(vi) In case of installations in earthquake prone zones, flexible couplings shall
be used for jointing purposes at required locations.

7.8 Valves in fixed firefighting installations shall have supervisory switch with its
signalling to fire alarm panel or to have chain(s), pad lock(s), label and
temper-proof security tag(s) with serial number to prevent
tempering/unauthorized operation. These valves shall be kept in their
intended ‘open’ position.

7.9 STRAINERS
Stainless steel strainers shall have minimum 1 mm thick screen with 3 mm
perforations. Strainers shall be provided with flanges.

7.10 ORIFICE PLATE

Orifice plate shall be made of 6 mm thick stainless steel and shall have an
identification tag projecting beyond any flange between which it is
clamped. The orifice shall be plain central hole without burs and diameter

42
 fffAppendic

not less than one-half of the internal diameter of the pipe to which it is
fitted.

7.11 INSTRUMENTS
(i) Pressure gauge of appropriate range and 150 mm diameter size shall be
provided.
(ii) The pressure gauge shall be duly calibrated before installation and
shall be complete with shut off valve.

7.12 AIR VESSEL

Air vessel shall be provided on top of each riser and shall be fabricated out
of 8 mm thick M.S. Sheet. The ends shall be dished. This shall be of 250 mm
diameter, 1.2 m high and installed vertically on suitable legs. The legs shall
be provided with M.S. Plate of size 75 mm x 75 mm x 5 mm at the bottom
so that the legs do not puncture the roof. The legs shall be grouted in CC
foundation. Flange connection shall be provided for connection with wet
riser pipe. Air release valve and pressure gauge with shut off valve shall be
provided. The air vessel shall be tested at 25 kgf/cm2 pressure before
installation.

7.13 INSTALLATION
(i) The installation work shall be carried out in accordance with the
detailed drawings prepared by the contractor and approved by the
Engineer-in-charge.
(ii) In pipe above ground level, expansion loops or joints shall be provided
to take care of expansion or contraction of pipes due to temperature
changes.
(iii) Tee-off connections shall be through equal or reducing tees, otherwise
ferrules welded to the main pipe shall be used. Drilling and tapping of
the walls of the main pipe shall not be resorted to.
(iv) Open ends of piping shall be blocked as soon as the pipe is installed to
avoid entrance of foreign matter.
(v) Piping installation shall be supported on or suspended from structure
adequately. The contractor shall provide, clamps, hangers etc. in
accordance with Para 7.16.
Proper lines and levels shall be maintained while installing exposed
pipes.
(vi) Pipe supports in pump house shall be floor mounted and of mild steel/
G. I. Spacing of pipe supports shall not be more than that specified
below:

Nominal Pipe Size (mm) Spacing (m)

43
 fffAppendic

20 and 25 2.00
32 to 125 2.50
150 and above 3.00
Extra supports shall be provided at the bends and at heavy fittings like valves
to avoid undue stress on the pipes.
(vii) Anti-vibration pads, springs or liners of resilient and non-deteriorating
material shall be provided at each support, so as to prevent transmission of
vibration through the supports.
(viii) Pipe sleeves of diameter larger than the pipe by least 50 mm shall be
provided wherever pipes pass through walls and the annular spaces shall be
filled with felt and finished with retaining rings.
(ix) (a) Vertical risers shall be parallel to walls and column lines and shall be
straight and in plumb. Risers passing from floor to floor shall be supported at
each floor by clamps as per Para 7.16.
(b) The space in the floor cut outs around the pipe work shall be closed
using cement concrete (1:2:4 mix) or steel sheet, from the fire safety
considerations, taking care to see that a small annular space is left around
the pipes to prevent transmission of vibration to the structure.
(c) Riser shall have suitable supports at the lowest point.
(x) Where mild steel pipes shall be buried under ground the same shall be
treated in accordance with Para 7.5 before laying. The top of the pipes shall
be not less than 1m below the ground level. Where this is not practicable,
permission of the Engineer-in-charge shall be obtained for burying the pipes
at lesser depth. Masonry or C.C.blocks shall be provided for supporting the
pipes at interval in accordance with Para 7.11(vi). After the pipes have been
laid, the trench shall be refilled with the excavated soil in layers of 20 cm and
rammed and any extra soil shall be removed from the site of work by the
contractor.
(xi) Underground pipe shall be laid at least 2m away from the face of the
building preferably along the roads and foot paths. As far as possible laying
of pipes under road, pavement and large open spaces shall be avoided.
Pipes shall not be laid under buildings and where unavoidable, these shall
be laid in masonry trenches with removable covers and cut-off valves shall
be provided at points of entry and exit.
(xii) Pipe over ground shall be painted in red color as per Para 1.13. Suitable
identification shall be provided to indicate the run of underground pipe
wherever the route of underground pipe cannot be ascertained from the
location of yard hydrant/isolating valves.
(xiii) It shall be made sure that proper noiseless circulation is achieved in the
system. If proper circulation is not achieved due to air-bound connections,
the contractor shall rectify the defective connections. He shall bear all the
expenses for carrying out the above rectification, including the tearing up
and refinishing of floors, walls, etc. as required.

44
 fffAppendic

7.14 FLUSHING ARRANGEMENT

Flushing connections with isolation valves should be provided at suitable
locations in the firewater ring main.

7.15 PRESSURE TESTING

(a) All piping shall be tested to hydrostatic test pressure of at least one and a
half times the maximum operating pressure, but not less than 10 kgf/sq.cm
for a period not less than 24 hours. While Hydro Testing, inclusion of cut-off
valves in the mains to be tested can be avoided. All leaks and defects in
joints revealed during the testing shall be rectified to the satisfaction of the
Engineer-in-Charge.
(b) Piping repaired subsequent to the above pressure test shall be re-tested in
the same manner.
(c) System may be tested in sections and such sections shall be securely
capped.
(d) Pressure gauges may be capped off during pressure testing of the
installation.

7.16 PIPE SUPPORTS

For installing pipes vertically or horizontally inside the building standard pipe
supports of reputed make shall be used. Following supports shall be used.
(i) Split pipe support clamps with rubber lining for vertical, horizontal and roof
hanging.
(ii) Clevis Hangers for horizontal supports to adjust varying heights.
(iii) Sprinkler Hangers for horizontal supports for pipes from 15 mm dia to 150
mm dia.
Fastners and fully threaded rods shall be used for installing the pipe
supports. The sizes of pipe supports and installation shall be in accordance
with manufacturer’s recommendations. Some of the typical supports are
shown in the Figure-9.
For pipes of size 100 mm and above, with the prior approval of Engineer-in-
Charge, 'U’ clamp with dash fastener may be used for supporting horizontal
pipe from ceiling.

7.17 MEASUREMENT
Measurements of plumbing work shall be on following basis:-
(a) Piping shall be measured along the centre line of installed pipes including all
pipe fittings and accessories but excluding valves and other terms for which
quantities are specifically indicated in the schedule of work. No separate
payment shall be made for fittings and accessories.

45
 fffAppendic

(b) The rates for piping work shall include all wastage allowances, flanges pipe
supports, hangers, excavation, refilling, testing, nuts and check nuts,
vibration isolators, suspension where specified or required, and any other
item required to complete the piping installation. None of these items will be
separately measured and paid.

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 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-8
FIREFIGHTING ACCESSORIES

8.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers landing valves, first aid hose reels, hose pipes, branch pipes
etc., which are vital tools for firefighting.

8.2 LANDING VALVE

Landing valves are provided in the system for connection of hose pipes for
discharging water for fighting fire by fire brigade or trained personnel.

8.2.1 The landing valves shall be as per IS: 5290

8.2.2 Material of construction

(i) Body, outlet and cap etc. : Bronze or Aluminum alloy or stainless steel
(ii) Spindle : Brass for Bronze body, stainless steel for
Aluminum alloy and stainless steel body.
(iii) Hand wheel : Mild steel or cast iron.

8.2.3 The water discharge shall be not less than 900 lpm for single head valves at 7
kgf/cm2 pressure.

8.2.4 Installation

8.2.4.1 The landing valve shall be fitted to a T-connection of the riser at the landing
in such a way that the valve is in the center of the internal hydrant opening
and at a height of 900 mm from floor level.
8.2.4.2 The valve base shall be vertical and the valve facing outside. There should be
no hindrance in operation of the handle.

8.3 FIRST AID HOSE REEL

First Aid Hose Reel is meant for delivering small quantity of water in early
stage of fire and can be operated even by untrained personnel, and thus
provides a most effective firefighting facility. It shall consist of 20 mm (nominal
internal) diameter hose tubing length wrapped around a reel with water inlet
pipe, stop valve and shut-off nozzle. The entire assembly is mounted on a wall
bracket and can swing 180 degrees. The water inlet shall be connected directly
to the riser/down-comer mains by means of 37 mm socket and valve. The
hose tube can be pulled out easily for the purpose of discharge of water on
fire.

47
 fffAppendic

8.3.1 First aid hose reel shall be as per IS-884. The coupling, branch pipe and nozzle
shall be as per IS:8090.

8.3.2 Material of Construction -

(i) Hub and sides : Aluminum Alloy / Mild steel / Aluminum
sheets.
(ii) Wall Bracket : Cast iron / Mild steel.
(iii) Hose tube (20 mm) :Thermoplastic (Textile Reinforced)
(nominal internal dia) Type-2 as per IS-12585
(iv) Nozzle with branch Pipe : Brass
(v) Stop Valve(Ball Valve) : Gun metal
Normally M S construction is used. Other material may be used in areas
having corrosive atmosphere.

8.3.3 The water flow rate shall be not less than 24 lpm and the range of jet shall be
not less than 6 m.

8.3.4 lnstallation

8.3.4.1 First aid hose reels are installed with internal hydrant (Para 2.4.1.7.) space
for which is provided as per Para 3.2.4. Where space is not provided, first
aid hose reel shall be installed in suitable size MS cabinet made from 2 mm
thick sheet with glass door. The cabinet shall be painted red as per Para
1.13. The size of the cabinet shall be such that there is no obstruction in
swinging the hose reel. The location of cabinet shall be such that it does
not form an obstruction in passage/escape route.

8.3.4.2 The length of hose tube shall be such that the nozzle of the hose can be
taken into every room and within a range of 6 m from any part of the
room.

8.3.4.3 There shall be no obstruction in swinging the hose reel and should be
installed above landing valve where provided.

8.3.4.4 The inlet valve shall be at 900 mm above floor level.

8.3.4.5 Hose reel bracket should be firmly grouted on the wall with the help of rawl
bolts.

8.4 FIRE HOSE DELIVERY COUPLING, BRANCH PIPE AND NOZZLES:-

8.4.1 These are important accessories used for firefighting operations.

48
 fffAppendic

8.4.2 Material of Construction

8.4.2.1 Copper Alloy

8.4.2.2 Aluminum alloy

8.4.2.3 Stainless Steel

8.4.3 Delivery Hose Couplings

8.4.3.1The delivery hose couplings consist of male half coupling and female half
coupling. Grooves are provided on outer side on both coupling for binding hose
pipes with wires. In female coupling spring loaded cam tooth is provided for
holding male half coupling in position. Male half coupling and female half
coupling are provided on both sides (i.e. on one side male and on other side
female) of hose pipes. Two or more pipes can be joined together with the help
of these couplings instantaneously.

8.4.3.2 Sizes:- These are available in two sizes i.e. 63 mm and 70 mm. Normally size 63
mm is used.

8.4.4 Branch Pipe and Nozzle :- Branch Pipes with nozzle are mounted at the end of
hose pipe. Branch pipe is properly finished and free from sharp edges. During
operation, a fireman has to hold the branch pipe. One end of branch pipe is
fixed with hose coupling and the other end is threaded to fit the nozzle.
Nozzle is tapered pipe with one end threaded internally which is fixed on branch
pipe. The size of other end i.e. nozzle shall be 20 mm (nominal internal
diameter).
Spare Branch pipes and nozzles to the extent of 10 percent of the above
requirements, with a minimum of two sets, shall always be kept readily
available in fire control room/pump room.

8.5 FIRE SERVICE INLET AND FIRE SERVICE CONNECTION

8.5.1 These are provided for connection of fire service hose pipes for either directly
pressurizing the system with their pumps or filling water in the tank from a
distance. In the first case non- return valve with butterfly valve shall be provided
for holding water pressure. Fire service inlet shall be provided with each wet
riser/down comer and the ring main. The arrangement has been shown in
Fig.5. These are fixed to 150 mm diameter pipe and located in MS Box made of
2 mm thick mild steel sheet with openable glass cover.

8.5.2 These shall be as per IS: 904.

49
 fffAppendic

8.5.3 Material of Construction

8.5.3.1 Copper Alloy

8.5.3.2 Aluminum Alloy

8.6 HOSE PIPES

8.6.1 Hose pipes shall be rubber lined woven jacketed and 63 mm in diameter. They
shall conform to Type A ( Re-inforced rubber lined ) of IS: 636. They shall be flexible
and capable of being rolled. Length of hose pipe will be 15 m.

8.6.2 The hose pipe shall be complete with male and female coupling at the ends as
per Para 8.4.3.

Besides keeping hose pipe with internal hydrant and yard hydrant, spare hose
pipes to the extent of 10 percent of the above requirements, with a minimum
quantity of 30 m shall always be kept readily available in fire control
room/pump room. Such spare hose shall be in 15 m lengths, readily
attached to couplings.

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 fffAppendic

CHAPTER-9
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM

9.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers the general requirement of selection, design, installation,
testing, commissioning and maintenance of automatic sprinkler system for
firefighting in buildings used for other than industrial, storage purpose,
hotels and mercantile buildings.

9.1.1 References: For additional information regarding definitions, planning,

design, hydraulic calculations, tables etc. following documents are to be
referred to:
(i) IS: 15105: - Design and Installation and Maintenance of Fixed
Automatic Sprinkler Fire Extinguishing Systems- Code of Practice (First
Revision).
(ii) IS: 9972: - Specification for Automatic Sprinkler Heads for Fire
Protection Service (First Revision).

9.2 INTRODUCTION
Firefighting installations described in Para 2.2.1 (i) to (iii) are to be operated
manually. Delay in undertaking manual operation due to late detection and
or response, may result in spread of fire. In automatic sprinkler system,
sprinkler heads are provided throughout the areas to be protected at
specified locations such as roof or ceiling, walls, between racks, below
obstructions and fitted with water supply lines permanently charged with
water under specified pressure. The sprinklers operate at pre-determined
temperature to discharge water over the affected area below and provide an
adequate distribution of water to control or extinguish fire. Only those
sprinklers which are in the vicinity of fire that is those become sufficiently
heated operate. Operation of sprinkler results in flow of water which initiates
fire alarm. Thus sprinklers perform two functions i.e. first to detect fire and
then to provide an adequate distribution of water to control or extinguish it.
Water distribution from ceiling level, cools down the hot gas which forms
beneath the ceiling of enclosure in which fire is developing. This will
prevent spread of fire to adjoining areas and contain damage to limited
area.
It should not be assumed that the provision of sprinkler system entirely
obviates the need for other means of fighting fire and it is important to
consider the fire precaution in the premises as a whole.
The system shall be installed only where there is no danger of freezing of
water in the pipes at any time.
Typical layouts of sprinklers have been shown in Figure 11.

51
 fffAppendic

9.3 CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPANCIES AND PROVISION OF AUTOMATIC

SPRINKLER FIRE SYSTEM
Sprinklers are provided in industrial and non-industrial buildings. The design of
sprinkler installation depends upon type of occupancy. For the purpose of
designing and installation of automatic sprinkler system, buildings are
categorized under the following classes in IS: 15105.
(a) Light hazard class
(b) Moderate/Ordinary hazard class
(c) High hazard class
(d) Storage hazards

For details of classifications, IS: 15105 is to be referred. Light Hazard

Occupancies shall be understood as those with low fire loads and with
materials within having low rates of heat release. Light Hazard Occupancies
are of non-industrial type subject to the condition that “No single
compartment greater than 210 m2 are allowable within light hazard
occupancies and such compartments shall be fire separated by walls having
30 min rating and doors. Otherwise the sprinkler system shall be designed as
per Ordinary Hazard Occupancy.”
Office buildings (excluding store rooms), education institutions, hospitals
(excluding kitchens, stores, utilities), libraries, museums, nursing homes,
prisons and residential apartments are classified under light hazard
occupancies.
Airport terminal buildings, car parking areas within building or basement,
departmental stores/retail shops are classified under ordinary hazard class.
In order to satisfy above conditions, all buildings classified under Light Hazard
shall be designed under Ordinary Hazard class. Accordingly these
specifications cover Ordinary Hazard class only.

9.4 PLANNING

9.4.1 Automatic sprinklers shall be installed wherever required in terms of Table 7

of Part-4, Vol-1 of NBC 2016 (amended up to date). These requirements for
installation of automatic sprinkler system have been reproduced in
Appendix-A.
Automatic Sprinklers shall also be installed in false ceiling voids exceeding
800 mm in height.
Ramps at all levels shall also be protected with sprinklers
Pressure in the sprinkler installation piping shall not exceed 7 bar and
pressure at the most remote sprinkler at any level shall not be less than 0.5
bar and also not more than 5 bar.

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 fffAppendic

9.4.2 Extent of Sprinkler Protection: -

Sprinklers shall be provided, but for following exceptions:
(a) Areas, rooms or places where the water discharged from a sprinkler may
pose a fire or explosion or toxic hazard. In such areas alternative
arrangement shall be made.
(b) Stairs, spaces below stair headings (but not rooms above a stair) and lift
wells. Any part of the building not provided with sprinkler protection shall be
fire separated by walls. Fire doors not less than 1 hour in fire resistance shall
be provided in the opening of such walls.
(c) Wash rooms, toilets and WCs (but not cloak rooms) of area less than 5m2. If
area of these rooms exceed 5m2, these shall be provided with sprinkler
protection unless fire separated by walls and all openings in the walls are
protected.
(d) Sprinklers shall not be required in electrical equipment rooms where all of
the following conditions are met:
i) The room is dedicated to electrical equipment only.
ii) Only dry-type electrical equipment is used.
iii)Equipment is installed in a 120 minutes fire-rated enclosure including
protection for penetration in walls.
iv)Cable coating is done in trays or trenches to prevent flame spread.
v) Storage is not permitted in the room.
In addition, for firefighting provisions to be provided for
Substation/Transformers, Electrical MV main distribution panel and lift panel
Clause 3.4.6.3 and 3.4.6.4, Page-22-23 of NBC 2016, Vol-1, Part-4 may be
referred to. (see Appendix-G)
(e) Rooms like server room or electrical control room where alternate
protection by other automatic extinguishing systems, (for example gas,
powder and water spray).
(f) In areas having height 17 m or above such as in atria, sprinkler installations
may be rendered ineffective and hence may be avoided.

9.4.3 The area to be protected by sprinkler is divided in to various zones. For

detecting operation of sprinkler in a zone, flow switches are provided which
are wired to an annunciation panel installed in the Fire Control Room. In the
event of operation of sprinkler(s) in an affected area. The annunciation
panel will give audio-visual alarm and indicate the affected zone. This
arrangement will be independent of fire alarm system.

9.4.4 Design, Density and Assumed Maximum Area of Operation (AMAO):- This is
different for different hazards classified in Para 9.3. For moderate hazard,
water discharge shall be at least 5 litre/min/m2 over an assumed area of
operation covering 360 m2.

53
 fffAppendic

9.4.5 Sprinkler Spacing, Arrangement, Distribution and Locations:- Sprinkler

heads may be installed on ceiling and or side walls. For selection of number
of sprinkler and their location in a given area, following factors shall be
considered:
(i) Maximum Area Coverage per Sprinkler
(a) Ceiling sprinkler 12 m2
(b) Side wall sprinkler :
 Combustible ceiling 7.5 m2
 Non-Combustible ceiling 9 m2
(ii) Maximum Distance between Sprinklers
(a) Ceiling sprinkler 3.5 m
(b) Side wall sprinkler
 Combustible ceiling 2.7 m
 Non-combustible ceiling 3m
(iii) Minimum Distance between Sprinklers 1.8 m
(for Ceiling as well as Sidewall sprinklers)
Note: In case of intermediate ceiling suspended sprinklers, protecting
commodities in racks, distance lower than 1.8 m may be considered if
necessary.
(iv) Maximum distance of sprinklers it shall not exceed
from end walls : half of the allowable
(for ceiling & sidewall sprinklers) distance between sprinklers
Note: For ceiling sprinklers:
a) where the external walls are combustible or built with metallic or
otherwise or open sided; and in case of open joisted ceilings or
where the roof has the rafters exposed, the distance between the
boundary and the sprinklers shall not exceed 1.5 m.
b) Distance shall be measured perpendicular to the wall.
(v) Sprinklers shall not be located at a distance less than 100 mm from the
wall (for ceiling sprinklers).
Sprinklers shall not be located at a distance less than 100 mm from the
end wall (for sidewall sprinklers)
While designing sprinklers installation, the recommendation of sprinkler
manufacturer shall be considered. Typical layout of side wall sprinklers has
been shown in Figure 14.

9.4.6 Spacing below Sprinkler Heads: - Clear minimum space of 0.5 m shall be
maintained below the deflector of sprinkler head.

9.4.7 Ceiling Sprinkler deflector location and orientation in relation to building

structure:

54
 fffAppendic

9.4.7.1 Roofs and ceilings:

For conventional and spray type of sprinklers, the sprinklers shall be installed in
such a way that the deflectors are at distances below ceilings as shown in Table
9.1.
Table 9.1 Sprinkler Location Below Ceilings
[Clause 9.4.7.1]
S. No. Type of ceiling Distance below ceilings
(in mm)
Minimum Maximum Preferred
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
i) Combustible, asbestos cement sheets, 75 300 150
wired glass and other types of frangible
ii) elements
Combustible with exposed rafters and/or 75 150 -
open joists
iii) Non combustible - either plane or 75 450 300
arched or sloping

9.4.8 Sidewall Sprinkler Deflector Location and Orientation in relation to building

structure:
i) Distance between sprinklers and the ceiling shall not exceed 150 mm. If
specifically approved for use and listed so, the distances between ceilings and
the sprinklers can be increased up to 450 mm.
ii) Vertical side wall sprinkler deflectors shall be located not more than 150 mm or
less than 100 mm from the wall from which they are projecting.
iii) Sprinklers shall be so located to minimize obstructions (to discharge) either on
parallel or perpendicular sides thereof. If required, additional sprinklers shall be
provided to obviate the obstructions.
iv) Sidewall Sprinkler Obstruction: Sprinklers shall be located at least 1.2 m away
from any lighting, fan and similar fixtures either in front of or on the same wall
where the sprinklers are mounted. For any obstruction (to discharge) including
lighting, fan and the like beyond 1.2 m, distances A and B (as indicated in Fig.
9.2 and 9.3) shall be maintained as per the Tables 9.2 and 9.3 given below. In
case these distances can not be maintained, the sprinkler shall not be allowed at
such location. (See Fig. 9.2 and 9.3).
v) Clearance between the top of storage if any to the deflector shall not be less than
450 mm.
vi) Side wall sprinklers in rooms shall neither be installed above the grills of air
conditioner nor within 450 mm thereof on the same wall.

Table 9.2 Sidewall Sprinkler Location in Relation to Obstructions

(lighting, fan and similar fixtures) -Facing across the wall (see Fig. 9.2)(Clause
9.4.8 iv)
S. No. Distance (A) between Sprinklers Maximum allowable Distance (B)
and the Obstruction on Side between Deflector above bottom of
(mm) Obstruction when Sprinkler can be
allowed

55
 fffAppendic

(mm)

(1) (2) (3)

a) Up to 1200 Not allowed
b) More than 1200 but less than 1500 25
c) More than 1500 but less than 1650 50
d) More than 1650 but less than 1800 80
e) More than 1800 but less than 1950 100
f) More than 1950 but less than 2100 150
g) More than 2100 but less than 2250 180
h) More than 2250 but less than 2400 230
i) More than 2400 but less than 2550 280
j) More than 2550 350

Table 9.3 Sidewall Sprinkler Location in Relation to Obstructions (lighting, fan

and similar fixtures)-Along the same wall (see Fig. 9.3) (Clause 9.4.8 iv)
S. No. Distance (A) Between Sprinklers Maximum allowable Distance (B)
and the Obstruction on Side between Deflector above bottom of
(mm) Obstruction when Sprinkler can be
allowed
(mm)
(1) (2) (3)
a) 100 to 150 25
b) More than 150 but less than 300 50
c) More than 300 but less than 450 80
d) More than 450 but less than 600 115
e) More than 600 but less than 750 150
f) More than 750 but less than 900 180
g) More than 900 but less than 1050 200
h) More than 1050 but less than 1200 230
i) More than 1200 but less than 1350 250
j) More than 1350 but less than 1500 300
k) More than 1500 but less than 1650 330
l) More than 1650 but less than 1800 350
m) More than 1800 but less than 1950 380
n) More than 1950 but less than 2100 430
o) More than 2100 but less than 2250 450

56
 fffAppendic

Fig. 9.2 SIDEWALL SPRINKLER FACING OBSTRUCTION

Fig. 9.3 SIDEWALL SPRINKLER OBSTRUCTION ALONGSIDE

vii) Horizontal sidewall sprinkler shall be located not more than 100 mm and are
allowed to be located with their deflectors less than 100 mm from the wall on
which they are mounted.
viii) Deflectors of the sprinklers shall be aligned parallel to the ceilings or roofs.
ix) When installed under a sloped ceiling (1 in 6), sidewall sprinklers shall be located
at the high point of slope and positioned so as to discharge down the slope.
x) Where verticle side of a beam/projection from a wall is used for installing a
sidewall sprinkler, additional sprinklers shall be installed below the soffit if the
width of beam or projection from the wall exceeds 200 mm.

57
 fffAppendic

xi) When soffits used are within 200 mm in width or projection from the wall,
additional sprinklers shall not be required subject to the deflector of the
sprinklers falling within prescribed distance as contained in 9.4.8 (ii), (vi) & (vii)
above.

9.4.9 Concealed Spaces:-

9.4.9.1 If the height of the concealed space at roof and floor is not greater than
0.8m, the spaces shall be sprinkler protected only if they contain
combustible materials or are constructed with combustible materials.
Electrical cables with voltage less than 250 V, single phase, with a
maximum of 15 cables per tray, are allowed.

9.4.9.2 Spaces between roofs and ceiling more than 0.8 m deep shall be sprinkler
protected as follows:-
(i) Concealed spaces less than 5m2 in area shall not require sprinkler
protection.
(ii) Sprinkler heads shall be provided considering the space as any other area in
the building.
(iii) Sprinkler heads may be connected individually with the range/distribution
pipes below, which shall be sized by taking the room and concealed space
sprinklers cumulatively.
(iv) Sprinkler heads for concealed space and for the room may be connected
with separate range/distribution pipes connected, with common feed
pipe. The common feed pipes shall be not less than 65 mm diameter.

9.4.10 Obstruction below Sprinklers:- Sprinklers shall be fitted under the following
types of obstruction which are either:
(a) more than 0.8 m wide and less than 150 mm from the adjacent walls or
partitions
OR
(b) more than 1 m wide.

9.4.11 Pipe Sizing and Design: - Sprinkler heads located as per Para 9.4.5 to
9.4.10 shall be connected with pipe lines permanently charged with water.
Depending upon location of sprinkler heads and site conditions, sprinkler
heads may be connected with range and distribution pipes. A number of
options have been indicated in Figure-12.

The pipes connecting the sprinkler heads are to be sized depending upon
number of sprinkler heads and arrangement of their connection. Main
elements of a sprinkler installation are shown in Figure-11. Various pipes
connecting the sprinkler heads are termed as below:

58
 fffAppendic

(a) Range Pipe

(b) Distribution Pipe
(c) Main Distribution Pipe
(d) Riser

Sizes of pipes are to be calculated from various tables and hydraulic calculations
given in IS: 15105.
Pipe sizes shall be determined using one of the following methods:
a) Pre-calculated system: applicable only where light and ordinary
occupancies where the aggregate floor plate area (in one or more floors
combined) is 5000 m2 or less (except where gridded or looped layouts are
used).
Pre-calculated pipework is applicable only to the extensions of old pre-
calculated systems.
b) Fully calculated system: applicable for
i) Light and ordinary occupancies where the aggregate floor plate area (in
one or more floors combined) exceeds 5000 m2.
ii) High hazard occupancies,
iii) Storage occupancies, and
iv) All occupancies where conventional and special sprinklers are used like
ESFR, LD, EC, intermediate, etc.
Some guidelines relating to pre-calculated system are given below:
a) Pipe less than 25 mm diameter is not to be used.
b) There shall not be more than 6(Six) sprinklers in any range.
c) Range and distribution pipe nominal sizes shall be selected from Table 9.4
and Table 9.5 respectively.

TABLE 9.4
RANGE PIPE NOMINAL SIZES FOR VARIOUS PIPE LAYOUTS IN
MODERATE/ORDINARY HAZARD INSTALLATIONS
Range Pipe Layout Pipe Nominal Maximum Number of
Bore (mm) Sprinklers to be fed
by Pipe of size listed
(1) (2) (3)
(a) (1) Range(s) at remote end
of each distribution pipe
spur in end feed layout:
(i) Last two ranges in 25 1
two end-side layout 32 2
(ii) Last three ranges in 25 2
three end-side layout 32 3
(2) Last range in all other 25 2

59
 fffAppendic

layouts. 32 3
40 4
(b) All other ranges in case of 25 3
1(i), 1(ii) & (2) above 32 4
40 6

TABLE 9.5
DISTRIBUTION PIPE NOMINAL SIZE IN MODERATE/ORDINARY HAZARD
INSTALLATIONS AND MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SPRINKLERS
Distribution Pipes Type of Layout Distribution Pipe Maximum Number of
Nominal (mm) Sprinklers to be fed
by Pipe size listed
(1) (2) (3) (4)
(a) At extremities Two end side 32 2
of the layouts
installation
40 4
50 8
65 16
(b) Last three All other layouts 32 3
ranges
40 6
50 9
65 18
(c) Between All To be calculated as per 10.4.4 (b) of IS
design points 15105
and the
Installation
Control Valve

Typical pipe sizes for sprinkler installation have been shown in Figure-13.

9.4.12 Components of sprinkler system:- Following types of valves are used in the
installations:
(a) Stop Valves
(b) Test Valves
(c) Drain Valves
(d) Flushing Valves
(e) Check Valves
(f) Installation Control Valves
(g) Pre action valves

60
 fffAppendic

(h) Subsidiary valves

The location of above valves shall be as under:

9.4.12.1 Test Valve. - For testing hydraulic alarm or electric alarm by drawing water
from downstream side, test valve shall be connected with downstream of
the water flow alarm.

9.4.12.2 Drain Valve: - For drainage of system, drain valve 50 mm diameter shall be
provided down stream of Installation Control Valve or any subsidiary stop
valve.
A common valve can perform the functions of test and drain. The outlet
shall be connected with a 50 mm diameter G.I. drain pipe along with riser
pipes as shown in figure No. 3 and 4.

9.4.12.3 Flushing Valve:- If the water used for sprinkler is not potable, flushing valves
shall be provided at the end of a distribution pipe. The valve size shall be
same as distribution pipe. Valve outlet shall be fitted with a brass plug and
extended to not more than 3 m above floor.

9.4.12.4 Check Valve:- Check valve shall be provided where more than one water
supply is available and same shall be fitted on each water supply pipe.

9.4.12.5 Subsidiary Stop Valve:- Subsidiary stop valve which shall be of the same
diameter as the pipe line in which they are fitted shall be provided to control
water supply to sprinklers of highly sensitive areas like computer rooms.

9.4.12.6 Installation Control Valve (ICV): - A sprinkler installation shall be fitted with a
suitable Installation Control Valve to control the water supply to the
installation. The valve set shall comprise of:
(a) a main stop valve.
(b) an alarm valve.
(c) a water motor alarm.

The alarm valve shall be fitted immediately downstream of the main stop
valve of each building/block and before any connection is taken off to supply
any part of the installation.
The Installation Control Valve shall be placed externally in the vicinity of the
main entrance of the building protected at an easily accessible place so that
the alarm bell sound is heard by the inhabitants/passer-by. The valve shall
be secured open by a pad locked or rivetted strap and protected against
impact damage.

If there are genuine constraints in locating the Installation Control Valve

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outside the buildings, this may be located inside the building in the vicinity
of main entrance (subject to approval of authorities concerned). Installation
Control Valve in such cases, shall be located away from any exposure to
damage and personnel shall be normally available in the vicinity of the
location to get alerted by alarm operation. Also, electrically operated sirens
interfaced with the opening of the alarm valve of ICV, shall be provided
outside the building. In no case, Installation Control Valve shall be provided
inside basement or inside pump room.

A plan of the risk with the position of Installation Control Valve shall be
placed in a conspicuous location. A location plate shall be fixed near the
Installation Control Valve bearing the following words in raised letters:

SPRINKLER
ALARM VALVE
9.4.12.7 Water motor alarm: Water motor alarm shall be provided very close to the
alarm valve. Strainer shall be fitted between the alarm valve and the motor
nozzle connection. The water outlet shall be positioned so that any flow of
water can be seen. The alarm device shall provide audibility level of 85 dB
above the back ground noise IeveI.

9.4.12.8 Pressure Gauges: - Pressure gauges shall be provided immediately above

and below each alarm valve.

Stop cock shall be provided before pressure gauges for removal without
interruption of water supply of the installation. Pressure gauges shall be as
per IS: 3624.

9.5 SPRINKLERS TYPE

Sprinklers shall be as per IS: 9972 and following types:

9.5.1 According to type of discharge (Refer Figure - 15):

a) Conventional pattern
b) Spray pattern
c) Side wall pattern

9.5.2 According to mounting pattern:

a) Pendent sprinkler
b) Up right sprinkler
c) Horizontal sprinkler
d) Ceiling sprinkler

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 fffAppendic

9.5.3 According to Release Mechanism:

a) Fusible element sprinkler
b) Glass bulb sprinkler

9.5.4 According to Orifice Size:

a) 10 mm
b) 15 mm
c) 20 mm
d) 25 mm

9.5.5 According to Temperature Rating:

Sprinkler shall have one of the following temperature rating and shall be
correspondingly color coded:
(a) FFusible Link Type
Temp. Rating °C Color Code
68/74 Natural
93/100 White

141 Blue
182 Yellow
227 Red

(b) Glass Bulb Type Color of

Temp. Rating bulb
Liquid
57 Orange
68 Red

79 Yellow

93 Green

141 Blue
182 Mauve
204/260 Black

9.6 SELECTION OF TEMPERATURE RATING

Temperature rating of a sprinkler should not be less than 30° C more than the
highest anticipated temperature of the location of installation. Under glazed
roofs or where there are roof sheets of PVC or similar plastic material,

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 fffAppendic

sprinkler shall be rated 73° C to 100° C.

9.7 SELECTION OF ORIFICE SIZE

In moderate hazard applications, sprinklers of orifice size 15 mm shall be used.

Table-9.6 Types of sprinkler

S. No. HAZARD SPRINKLER NOMINAL ORIFICE
CLASS PATTERN NOT LESS THAN MM
(1) (2) (3) (4)
i) Light Standard, Spray, 10-15
Flush, Sidewall
types
ii) Ordinary All except sidewall 15
types
iii) High Standard, spray 15-25
pattern only
iv) Storage Standard, spray 15-25
pattern only

9.8 SIZE OF INSTALLATIONS

The protected floor area to be controlled by any one Installation Control
Valve shall not exceed 12000 m2.
As far as possible one area shall be controlled by one Installation Control
Valve. If the area is quite large, more than one Installation Control Valve
should be planned. Details of area controlled by an Installation Control
valve shall be exhibited near it.
If there are more than one block in a campus, each block shall be provided
with different Installation Control valve.

9.9 PROTECTION OF SPRINKLERS

Any sprinkler installed in a position of risk or accidental damage shall be
fitted with a metal guard suitable for sprinkler service.

9.10 WATER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENT FOR SPRINKLER

9.10.1 Pump- Details of pumps to be installed for sprinkler installation are given
in Appendix-A. For large installations, separate jockey pump shall be
provided for sprinkler system. All pumps shall have common discharge
header. If two electrical pumps are to be provided one non-return valve
shall be provided in the header such that sprinkler pump will not feed

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other system.

9.10.2 Water Storage Tank- The water storage tank shall be combined for other
firefighting system and sprinkler installation and the capacity shall be as
given in Appendix 'A’.

9.11 SPRINKLER ANNUNCIATION PANEL AND ALARM

Electrically operated alarm shall be provided for indication of operation of
sprinkler in an area. Water flow switches shall be installed in main
distribution pipes which shall be wired to sprinkler annunciation panel. In
the event of operation of a sprinkler, the flow switch will operate and give
signal to the annunciation panel to indicate operation of sprinkler in the
area. This will initiate an electrically operated alarm. The system shall be
independent of fire alarm system and compatible with BMS. Necessary
potential free contacts for use in BMS should be provided.

9.11.1 Construction Details

(i) The Panel shall be fabricated out of not less than 2 mm thick MS sheet
and powder coated after 7 tank treatment process and shall be totally
enclosed dust damp and vermin proof. Suitable knockout shall be
provided for the entry of cables. The panel shall be designed such that
the equipment for power supply, battery charging are housed in
independent compartments. Sealed maintenance free batteries shall
also be accommodated inside the panel.
(ii) Indicating lamps control switches, buttons and fuses shall be suitably
located in the front and properly labeled.
(iii) The indicating lamps shall be LED type of following colors. The flow
switch operation conditions shall be indicated by twin lamps.
(a) Red to indicate flow switch operation.
(b) Amber to indicate fault condition.
(c) Green to indicate healthy condition.
(iv) The test buttons to test the indication lamps shall be provided.
(v) The panel control shall be microprocessor type.
(vi) The primary function of the panel shall be to respond automatically to the
operation of one or more flow switches to give alarm and to indicate
area/areas where the device has activated. The operation of one or
more flow switches shall result in simultaneous alarm given by the
following:-
(a) External alarm hooter(s) (provided outside the building to be
protected).
(b) A visible indication on panel.

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 fffAppendic

(c) Audible alarm on panel itself (common for all zones)

(vii) The panel shall indicate the fault within the system and immediate fault
warning shall be given by an audible and visible signal on the panel in
case of open circuit, short circuit and earth fault in cable between flow
switch and annunciation panel.
(viii) The panel shall be complete with mimic diagram for the areas covered by
different flow switches. The layout of mimic diagram shall be got
approved from Engineer- in-Charge.
(ix) Battery backup with trickle cum boost charger shall be provided for
operation of the system. Indication of mains failure and the state of
charge of the batteries shall be provided. The batteries shall be sealed
maintenance free. The capacity of the battery shall be 12 Volt, 2 Nos. 24
Ah each. All standard accessories shall be provided.

9.12 INSTALLATION
The installation shall be carried out as per Chapter 7 and 11. Following
additional points are to be taken care for sprinkler installations:

9.12.1 For fixing sprinkler heads, 15 mm diameter M.S. Socket is to be welded to

range pipes at the locations as per drawings. Dead plug shall be fixed in the
socket.

9.12.2 If sprinkler head is to be provided away from range pipe, M.S. Pipe nipple of
suitable size be used to extend the sprinkler head and socket is welded at
desired location.

9.12.3 After completion of work in sections, pressure testing at 7.5 kgf/cm2

pressure shall be carried out for 24 hrs.

9.12.4 After completion of the entire work, pressure testing of entire pipe work shall
be carried out for 24 hrs. at a pressure of 7.5 kgf/cm2. The drop of pressure
up to 0.5 kgf/cm2 shall be accepted.

9.12.5 The lines shall be flushed before completion of building work so that any
foreign matter which might have entered the system is taken out. The
pressurization pump (Jockey Pump) be operated and valves opened at
different locations.

9.12.6 During occupation of the building, sprinkler heads shall be provided in place
of dead plugs. Teflon tape shall be used on threaded portion. The sprinkler
heads shall be properly tightened in the socket.

9.12.7 When all sprinklers heads are installed, pressure is built up in the system by

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 fffAppendic

pressurization pump slowly and in case no leak is found, desired pressure is

developed and maintained. In case any leak is detected, the same shall be
attended before pressurizing the system further.

9.13 COMMISSIONING
As soon as the work is complete, the system shall be commissioned and
made available for use in accordance with Para 11.6.

9.14 Spare Sprinklers to be Kept in Stock :

A stock of spare sprinklers shall be maintained in the premises so that
prompt replacement is possible after the operation/damage of sprinkler
heads. The spares shall be kept in an easily accessible location under
conditions where the temperature does not exceed 38°C.
The guidelines as in Table 9.7 shall be followed in respect of stocking spare
sprinkler heads.
Spanners or wrenches for the sprinklers shall also be kept along with the
spare sprinklers in readiness.
Table 9.7
Guidelines for stocking spare sprinkler
S. No. HAZARD CLASS All state capitals and Other
within 200Km thereof locations
(1) (2) (3) (4)
i) Light 5 sprinklers of each type 15
ii) Moderate/Ordinary 15 sprinklers of each 25
type
iii) High & storage 30 sprinklers of each 50
type
Note- When there is more than one installation within a complex, the
above quantity shall also be increased in proportion. Each type of
sprinkler used in the installation such as conventional or spray or
ceiling/flush or sidewall sprinklers and appropriate temperatures shall
be stocked as per the above requirements.

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CHAPTER-10
ELECTRICAL WORK

10.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers the requirements for the electrical worms associated
with firefighting installations, namely, motors, switch boards, power cabling,
control wiring, earthing and remote control-cum-indicating panels.

10.2 GENERAL

(i) Unless otherwise specified in the tender specifications, all equipment

and materials for electrical works shall be suitable for operations on 415
V / 240 V + 10% (3 phase/single phase), 50 Hz AC system.
(ii) All electrical works shall be carried out complying Central Electricity
Authority (Measures Relating To Safety and Electric Supply)
Regulations, 2010 and NEC 2011, as amended up to date.
(iii) All parts of electrical works shall be carried out as per appropriate
CPWD General Specifications for Electrical works, namely, Part I (Internal)
2013, Part II (External) 1994 work, and Part IV (Sub-station)- 2013 all as
amended up to date.
(iv) All materials and components used shall conform to the relevant IS
specifications amended to date.

10.3 POWER SUPPLY

Power supply to following systems and equipment, where provided, shall be
from normal and emergency (standby generator) power sources with change
over facility:
a) Fire pumps
b) Pressurization and smoke venting; including its ancillary systems such as
dampers and actuators.
c) Terrace pump
d) Fireman's lifts (including all lifts).
e) Exit signage lighting.
f) Emergency lighting.
g) Fire alarm system.
h) Public address (PA) system (relating to emergency voice evacuation and
annunciation).
i) Magnetic door hold open devices.
j) Lighting in fire command center and security room.

The generator shall be capable of taking starting current of all the fire and life
safety systems and equipment as above. Where parallel HV/LV supply from a

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separate substation fed from different grid is provided with appropriate

transformer for emergency, the provision of generator may be waived in
consultation with the Authority.

The electric supply to the pumping set(s) shall be entirely independent of all
other equipment in the premises that is even when the power throughout the
entire premises is switched off, the supply to the pump shall continue to be
available un-interrupted. This can be achieved by taking the connection for
the pump(s) from the incoming side of the main L.T. breaker. In case, where
parallel HV/LV supply from a separate substation fed from different grid is
provided with appropriate transformer for emergency connected to a
common bus bar, the connection may be taken through the bus bars.

The power supply to the panel/distribution board of these fire and life safety
systems shall be through fire proof enclosures or circuit integrity cables or
through alternate route in the adjoining fire compartment to ensure supply of
power is reliable to these systems and equipment. It shall be ensured that the
cabling from the adjoining fire compartment is protected within the
compartment of vulnerability. The location of the panel/distribution board
feeding the fire and life safety system shall be in fire safe zone ensuring
supply of power to these systems.

Circuits of such emergency system shall be protected at origin by an

automatic circuit breaker so set as to permit the motor to be overloaded
during an emergency to the maximum limit permissible by the manufacturer.
Further, the no volt coil/the under voltage release of that circuit breaker shall
be removed. Master switches controlling essential service circuits shall be
clearly labeled.

10.3.1 Independent supply shall be provided for water supply pumps if installed in
the same pump house.

10.3.2 If the fire pump house is away from the sub-station building, the route of
the cable shall not pass under the building or permanent structure. Cable
shall be laid along the route which is safe from fire.

10.3.3 Sufficient spare power shall always be available to drive pumping sets at all
times throughout the year. Suitable capacity ACBs/SDFUs shall be provided in
the electrical panel for extending supplies to fire pumps. Such switches shall
be suitably marked "FIRE SWITCH" and shall not be switched-off without
permission/intimation to appropriate authority. In case any
maintenance/repair work is to be carried out on the electrical panel where

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from supplies to fire pumps have been extended, alternative arrangement

shall be made to ensure that power supply to fire pumps continue to be
available for operation any time.

10.4 MOTORS
The motors shall be squirrel cage AC induction type. The motors shall be
suitable for continuous duty and rating necessary to drive the pump at 150
percent of its rated discharge with at least 65 percent rated head. The motor
shall be totally enclosed fan cooled type confirming to protection clause IP
21 of IS: 4691. The class of insulation shall be ‘F’. The synchronous speed
shall be 1500/3000 rpm as per requirement of the pump. The motor shall
conform to IS:325.

10.5 MOTOR STARTER

(i) The motor starter shall conform to IS: 1822 “Motor starters of voltage not
exceeding 1000 volts” and shall be air insulated and suitable for 415 V, +
10%, 50 Hz, 3 phase AC supply and shall be integrated in the panel.
(ii) Starter for the motor shall be direct on line (D.O.L) for motors up to and
including 7.5 H.P. rating and automatic star-delta type for motors of higher
ratings unless otherwise specified in the tender specifications. However, for
main Fire Pump & Sprinkler Pump Soft Starters may be used.
(iii) Each starter shall be provided with the following protections: -
(a) Thermal overload on all the three phases with adjustable settings,
(b) Independent single phase preventer. (Current sensing type).
(iv) Adequate number of extra NO/NC contacts for interlocks, indicating lamps,
remote operation etc. shall be provided on the starter/ contactor.
(v) Under voltage/No volt trip shall not be provided.

10.6 SWITCH BOARDS

(i) The main switch board shall be floor mounted, free standing or wall
mounted cubical type and shall be factory built fabricated by one of the
approved switch board manufacturer. The board shall be fabricated from 2.0
mm thick CRCA sheet and powder coated after 7 tank treatment process.
The board shall be fabricated with IP 42 degree of protection. It shall be
suitable for termination of the incoming cable(s) from bottom.
(ii) The capacity of switch gear shall be suitable for the requirements of motor
fed/ controlled. Starting currents shall be duly considered.
(iii) Switch fuse units shall be used up to and including 32 A and SDFU shall be used
for 63 A and above. ACB shall be used for 630 A and above ratings.
(iv) All Switch fuse units/SDFUs shall be of AC 23 duty as per IS: 4064-1978 as
amended up to date. They shall be complete with suitable HRC cartridge
type fuses.
(v) Switch boards shall house starters for motors with independent current sensing

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type single phase preventor for each starter.

(vi) Volt meter with selector switch, a set of indicating lamps and fuses for
voltmeter and lamps shall be provided. Ammeter with CTs, and selector
switch shall be provided with each motor starter. Instruments shall be flush
mounted with the panel and have a class index not higher than 1.0. The
instruments and accessories shall be provided whether or not specifically
indicated in the tender specifications.
(vii) The fabrication of switchboard shall be taken up only after the drawings for
the fabrication of the same are approved by the Engineer-in-charge.
(viii) Switchboards shall be fabricated as per specifications indicated in sub-para
above.
(ix) The layout shall be designed for convenient connections and inter-
connections with the various switchgear. Connections from individual
compartments to cable alleys shall be such as not to shut down healthy circuits in
the event of maintenance work becoming necessary on a defective circuit.
(x) Care shall be taken to provide adequate clearances between phase bus bars as
well as between phase bus bars, neutral and earth.
(xi) Where terminations are done on the bus bars by drilling holes therein, extra
cross section shall be provided for the bus bars. Alternatively, terminations
may be made by clamping.
(xii) Provision shall be made for proper termination of cables at the switchboards
such that there is no strain either on the cables, or on the terminators.
Cables connected to the upper tiers shall be duly clamped within the
switchboard.
(xiii) Identification labels shall be provided against each switchgear and starter
compartment, using plastic/aluminum engraved labels.
(xiv) Metallic danger board conforming to relevant IS shall be fixed on each
electrical switchboard.

10.7 SYSTEM CONTROLLER

For controlling operation of pumps as per Para 2.4.1.14 and indicating fault,
system controller shall be provided. The system controller shall consist of relays,
timer, contactors etc. and shall be designed to operate the fire pumps with
interlocking and fault indication as described in Para 2.4.1.15. Annunciation
window shall be provided to indicate following faults:
(i) Low water level in UG tank
(ii) Low water level in terrace tank.
(iii) Main pump failed to start.
(iv) Main pump failed during operation.
(v) Diesel pump failed to start.
(vi) Diesel pump failed during operation
(vii) Supply to Main Pump failed
(viii) Supply to Pressurization Pump failed

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(ix) Supply to Terrace Pump failed.

Suitable sensors, differential pressure switches, monitors shall be provided at

respective locations. The control system shall be operational on 12 Volt/24 Volt
DC starting batteries of engine. Battery chargers shall be provided to ensure that
the batteries remain charged. Batteries shall be sealed maintenance free type.

10.8 REMOTE INDICATING PANEL

(i) The remote indicating panel shall be provided in the fire control room. This
panel shall have necessary status indication of all electric motors.
(ii) Back indication to show the status of operation of all the motors, pressure in
the system, water level in underground and overhead tank etc. shall be
provided.
(iii) Panel shall be fabricated from not less than 1.6 mm thick CRCA sheet and
powder coated after 7 tank treatment process. The panel shall be dust,
damp and vermin proof. This shall be of wall mounting type. This shall be
complete with necessary termination arrangements, multicore cables, tag
blocks, control transformer, designation plastic labels, double earth studs
etc. as required.

10.9 POWER CABLING

(i) Unless otherwise specified, the power cables shall be XLPE insulated, PVC
outer sheathed aluminum conductor, armoured cables 1100 V grade. The
power cables shall be of 2 core for single phase, 4 core for sizes up to and
including 25 sq.mm for 3 phase and 3-1/2 core for sizes higher than 25
sq.mm for 3 phase.
Alternatively, XLPE/PVC insulated copper cable (single core/multicore
armoured/un-armoured) of grade 1100 V shall be used.
For main power cable(s) from LT Room to Fire Pumps Panel, if the cable(s) is
taken in cable trench duly filled with sand & with proper distancing from
other cables within the cable trench, or in fire rated shaft, then the cable(s)
of above type be used. However, if the cable(s) is likely to be exposed to fire,
then fire survival cable(s) shall be used.
(ii) Power cables shall be of sizes to meet the starting and running current of
motors fed and shall be as approved by the Engineer-in-Charge, after taking
into consideration the load, the length of cabling.
(iii) Cables shall be laid in suitable metallic trays suspended from ceiling, or
mounted on walls. Cable ducts shall not be provided in pump rooms. Cable
trays shall be of perforated steel sheet with adequate structural strength and
rigidity. Necessary supports and suspenders for cable trays shall be provided
by the contractor as required.

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 fffAppendic

10.10 CONTROL WIRING

(i) Control wiring shall be done using ISI marked PVC insulated and PVC sheathed,
2.5 sq.mm, 250 V grade, armoured multi-core copper conductor cable. The
control cable shall also be laid in the same manner as power cable.
(ii) The number and size of the control cables shall be such as to suit the control
system design adopted by the contractor.
(iii) Runs of control wires within the-switchboard shall be neatly bunched and
suitably supported/clamped. Means shall be provided for easy identification of
the control wires.
(iv) Control wiring shall correspond to the circuitry/sequence of operations and
interlocks approved by Engineer-in-Charge.

10.11 EARTHING
(i) Provision of earth electrodes and the type of earthing shall be as specified in
the tender specifications.
(ii) The earth work shall be carried out in conformity with CPWD Specifications
for Electrical works (Part-I), Internal 2013.
(iii) Metallic body of all motors, medium voltage equipment and switch boards
shall be connected by two separate and distinct earth conductors to the earth
stations of the installations. Looping of such body earth conductors is
acceptable from one equipment, or switch board to another.
(iv) The size of earth conductors for body earthing of equipment shall be 2 Nos. 6
mm dia copper wire/2 Nos. 25 x 3 mm G.I. strip
(v) Armoring of cables shall be connected to the body of the equipment/switch
board at both the ends. Compression type glands shall be used for all such
terminations in the case of PVC/XLPE cables.

10.12 PAINTING
All panels shall be supplied with the manufacturer’s standard finish painting
or as indicated in the Schedule of Work.

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CHAPTER-11
INSTALLATION, TESTING AND COMMISSIONING

11.1 SCOPE
This chapter covers the requirement of Installation, testing and
commissioning of firefighting system.

11.2 PREPARATION AND APPROVAL OF DRAWING

On award of the work, the contractor has to prepare working drawings as per
Para 1.17.2 and submit to the Engineer-in-charge for approval. The work is to
be executed as per approved drawings. The stage of approval of drawings is
therefore very important. All drawings should be carefully and critically
examined before approval. The requirements of various components of
firefighting system have been described in previous chapters dealing with the
components. However, generally following points are to be taken care while
examining and approving the drawings.

11.2.1 Site survey should be carried out in detail.

11.2.2 In addition to building plans, layout plan along with landscape

plan/horticulture plan and other services plans should be consulted while
deciding route of underground pipes from pump house and around the
building.

11.2.3 As far as possible, underground pipe are not to be laid under road, pavement,
building and long open spaces. The locations along road, foot path in earth
may be preferred.

11.2.4 The location of yard hydrants, fire service inlet and fire service connection
are to be decided based on consideration of Para 2.4.1.8 to Para 2.4.1.10.
However necessary adjustments are to be made so that these components
do not become hindrance in vehicular movement and entrance to the building.
Requirement of other building services are also to be given due consideration.
Symmetry should be maintained for aesthetic considerations.

11.2.5 Pipe sizes are to be decided in accordance with provision of Para 2.4.1.2 and
4.5.4.

11.2.6 Pump House:-The layout of equipment in pump house is very important from
operation and maintenance considerations. The requirement of pumps and
engine have been described in Chapter 5 and 6. In case other equipment i.e.

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water supply pumps etc. are to be installed in the same pump house,
sufficient space shall be left for them as well. The dimensioned foundation
drawing of pumps should be available for marking in the pump room layout.
The layout is to be prepared in such a way that it should be possible to
maintain any equipment without disturbing the adjoining equipment.
Electrical panels are to be installed at a location which is easily accessible
near the entrance to the pump house and there should be no possibility of
water dripping over or near the electrical panel. Typical layout of fire pump
house is shown in Figure -10.

11.2.7 Terrace Pumps:- The location of pumps and terrace pipe may be decided
keeping in view location of terrace tanks for firefighting and other services.
The pipe line should not cause undue hindrance for movement of
maintenance personnel at the terrace.

11.2.8 Electrical Panel :- Complete wiring drawing, layout etc. are to be examined to
ensure that provisions of agreement are incorporated in the drawing. Sizes
of various panel and mounting arrangement may be decided keeping in
view ease of operation and aesthetic consideration as well.

11.3 INSTALLATION:-
The requirements of installation of various components have been described
in previous chapters. However, following precautions are to be taken during
execution of the work.

11.3.1 The pump and motor/engine are to be perfectly aligned on the base plate so
that there is no vibration during operation. All nuts, bolts, washers shall be of
adequate size and galvanized.

11.3.2 The pipe supports should be decided in a way that the weight of pipes and
valves are not transferred to the pumps and supports do not cause hindrance
in movement inside the pump house. As far as possible, floor supports may
be provided in pump house.

11.3.3 All valves shall be installed at a height and in a position that their operation
by right hand is conveniently possible.

11.3.4 All pressure gauges should be installed so that the dial is vertical and is
visible while entering the pump house.

11.3.5 Electrical panels should not be installed at floor level. The panels shall be
sufficiently raised above ground level. If panels are to be mounted on wall,
an angle iron frame shall be provided so that at least 75 mm space is left

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behind the panels. The panels shall be easily approachable.

11.3.6 Cable trays are to be used for laying of power and control cable inside pump
house. No cable is to be laid at floor level/in trench. Cable tray layout
should give neat appearance. All cable tray shall be adequately supported
from the ceiling/floor.

11.3.7 Drain pump shall be installed in the sump provided as per Para 3.2.2 (viii).
The pump shall operate automatically for which water level sensor shall be
provided.

11.3.8 In no case any structural member i.e. RCC wall, column, beam and floor are
to be damaged during installation. Mechanical fasteners are to be used for
grouting support.
U.G. tank wall is not to be used for any support. No pipe/cable is to cross
the pump house below ground level. Openings above ground level are only
to be used for this purpose.

11.3.9 The engine installation work shall be carried out in accordance with the
requirement of engine manufacturer and be got approved by the
manufacturer or their authorized service center. The exhaust pipe should
be suitably extended outside the pump house so that smoke does not
effect nearby structure. Fuel tank shall be properly supported and located
in a way that the same does not cause hindrance in movement in the pump
house.

11.3.10 While excavating for laying of external pipes, suitable sign board/ barricading
shall be provided to ensure that no person falls in the trench.

11.3.11 The width and depth of trench shall be adequate for laying the pipe 1m
below ground level.

11.3.12 No earth or any other matter is to be allowed to enter the pipes. The ends
shall be kept closed always.

11.3.13 The anticorrosive treatment is to be applied on the entire length laid

underground in accordance with Para 7.5. The treatment is not to be
damaged.

11.3.14 Pressure testing is to be carried out in sections before filling the earth back
in the trench.

11.3.15 The earth filling is to be done in layers of 20 cm each and properly rammed

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so as to avoid possibility of settlement. Surplus earth/malba shall be

removed from the site by the contractor.

11.3.16 Where pipes crossing road likely to have heavy traffic, additional protection
over pipe shall be provided to ensure that pipe is not damaged. However,
semi-circular RCC Pipes shall be provided over cast iron pipes at road
crossings.

11.3.17 External hydrants and fire service connection/ inlet shall be located parallel
to the nearby road/ foot path so as to give proper appearance. Foundation
shall be raised from below ground level and shall be properly plastered in
plumb. The hydrants shall be facing the road/ approach. There shall be no
obstruction in approaching the hydrants for operation.

11.3.18 Risers shall be parallel to the wall and in plumb. Adequate supports shall be
provided from the wall. Opening around the pipe in slab shall be filled with CC
and finished with plaster.

11.3.19 Internal hydrant shall be provided in the center and facing outside for ease of
operation. Sufficient space shall be provided around the handle for
operation. There shall be no hindrance in moving the first aid hose reel.

11.3.20 Terrace pipes shall be supported on CC pedestals of adequate height. The

pipe route shall be such as no hindrance is created in movement at the
terrace. Pipes shall be sufficiently raised above terrace. It is to be ensured
that water proofing is not damaged during laying of pipes.

11.4 TESTING

11.4.1 Initial Testing

11.4.1.1 During laying of pipes, the same shall be subjected to 10 kgf/cm2 hydraulic
pressure for a period of 24 hours, in sections.

11.4.1.2 After completion of the work, all vaIves/ fittings shall be installed in position
and entire system shall be tested for 24 hours at a pressure of 10 kgf/ cm2.
The drop of pressure up to 0.5 kgf/cm2 shall be accepted.

11.4.2 Final Testing

11.4.2.1 After completion, all operation checks as per Para 2.4.1.14 shall be carried
out for automatic operation of the systems. For this purpose, landing valves
may be opened at different locations. The exercise shall be repeated couple
of times to ensure trouble free operation of the system.

77
 fffAppendic

11.4.2.2 Flow Test: - The design flow of pumps shall be checked. The pump shall be
operated after opening a number of landing valves at different locations.
Design pressure is to be maintained in the pump house. Water discharge is to
be measured by drop in level in UG tank for a certain period. All pumps shall
be tested one by one. The flow rate shall be not less than as specified while
maintaining the design pressure in pump house.

11.5 INSPECTION BY LOCAL FIRE OFFICER

After completion of the work and testing to the entire satisfaction of Engineer-
in- Charge, the installation shall be offered for inspection by Chief Fire Officer
or his representative. Testing as desired by the Fire Officer shall be carried
out. The contractor will extend all help including manpower during testing.
The observations of Chief Fire Officer shall be part of the agreement. These
shall be attended by the contractor. Nothing extra shall be paid for testing as
above.

11.6 COMMISSIONING
11.6.1 Flushing the System: Before commissioning, the entire system shall be
flushed to ensure that any earth/ foreign matters which might have entered
during installation are taken out. For this, pump may be operated and valves
opened at different locations.

11.6.2 As soon as the work is complete, the system shall be commissioned and
made available for use. Requirement of firefighting installations is equally
important during occupation of the building. If the building is to be occupied
in part, firefighting system of building completed shall be commissioned by
isolating the system of under construction portion of the building.

11.6.3 The firefighting system shall be maintained and manned from the very first
day of its commissioning.

11.6.4 Any defects noticed during the warranty period shall be promptly attended
by the contractor and availability of the system at all time is to be ensured.

78
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A: Minimum Requirements for Firefighting Installations (Based on Table 7 of Vol-1, Part-4 of NBC 2016)

Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (litre/min)
No. Occupancy (litre)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS(A)
a) Lodging and
Rooming Houses
(A-1) (see Note 3)
1) Less than 15 m in
height
i) Up to 15 R NR NR NR NR R NR NR NR 5000 NR NR
rooms (see Note 4) (see Note 5)

ii) More than 15 R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 5000 NR 450

and up to 30 (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
rooms (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
iii) More than 30 R R NR NR NR R R NR NR 10000 NR 450
rooms (see Note 4) (see Note 7) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
b) One or two NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR
Family Private
Dwellings
(A-2) (see Note 3)

79
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Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
c) Dormitories (A-3)
and Apartment
Houses (A-4)
1) Less than 15 m in R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 5000 NR 450
height (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) 15 m and above R R NR R NR R R NR NR 25000 NR 900
but not exceeding (see Note 4) (see Note 8)
35 m in height
3) Above 35 m but R R R NR NR R R NR 75000 5000 (see Note 10) NR
not exceeding (see Note 4
45 m in height and Note 9)
4) Above 45 m in R R R NR R R R NR 150000 10000 (see Note 11) NR
height but not
exceeding 60 m in
height
5) Above 60 m in R R R NR R R R R 200000 10000 (see Note 12 NR
height & Note 13)

Educational Buildings(B) (see Note 16)

1) Less than 15 m in
height

80
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Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
i) Ground plus one R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 10000 NR 450
or more storey (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) 15 m and above R R NR R NR R R NR NR 25000 NR 900
but not exceeding (see Note 4)
24 m in height
3) Above 24 m but R R R NR R R R NR 50000 (5000) (see Note 14) NR
not exceeding (see Note 4) (see Note 6)
30 m in height
INSTITUTIONAL BUILDINGS(C) (see Note 16)

a) Hospitals,
Sanatoria and
Nursing Homes
(C-1)

1) Less than 15 m in
height with plot
area up to
1000 m2
i) Up to ground R NR NR NR NR R R NR NR (5000) NR (450)
plus one (see Note 4) (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
storey, with no
beds
ii) Up to ground R R NR NR NR R R NR NR 5000 NR 450
plus one storey (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
with beds (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
81
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
iii) Ground plus R R NR R NR R R R NR 10000 NR 900
two or more (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
storey, with no (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
beds
iv) Ground plus R R R NR NR R R R 75000 10000 (see Note 14) NR
two or more (see Note 1)
storey, with
beds
2) less than 15 m in R R R NR R R R R 100000 10000 (see Note 14) NR
height with plot (see Note 1)
area more than
1000 m2
3) 15 m and above R R R NR R R R R 150000 20000 (see Note 10) NR
but not exceeding
24 m in height

4) Above 24 m and R R R NR R R R R 200000 20000 (see Note 11) NR

not exceeding
45 m in height
b) Custodial (C-2),
and Penal and
Mental (C-3)
1) Less than 10 m in
height

82
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Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
i) Up to 300 R R NR NR NR R R NR NR 10000 NR 450
persons (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
ii) More than 300 R R NR R NR R R NR NR 15000 NR 900
persons (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) 10 m and above R R R NR R R R R 100 000 5000 (see Note 10) NR
but not exceeding (see Note 4) (5000)
15 m in height (see Note 6)
3) 15 m and above R R R NR R R R R 150000 10 000 (see Note 11) NR
but not exceeding
24 m in height
4) 24 m and above R R R NR R R R R 200000 20 000 (see Note 11) NR
but not exceeding
30 m in height
ASSEMBLY BUILDINGS (D) (see Note 16)
a) Buildings
(D-1 to D-5)
1) Less than 10 m in
height
i) Up to 300 R R NR R NR R R NR NR 20 000 NR 450
persons (see Note 4) (5 000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)

83
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Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
ii) More than 300 R R NR R NR R R NR NR 25000 NR 900
persons (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) Above 10 m but R R R NR NR R R R 100000 5000 (see Note10) 450
not exceeding (see Note 4) (see Note 1) (5000) (450)
15 m in height (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
3) Above 15 m but R R R NR R R R R 150000 10000 (see Note10) NR
not exceeding
24 m in height
4) Above 24 m but R R R NR R R R R 200000 20000 (see Note11) NR
not exceeding
30 m in height
b) D-6 R R R NR R R R R 200000 20000 (see Note12) NR
c) D-7 For details see 6.4.4
BUSINESS BUILDINGS (E)

1) Less than 10 m in R R NR R NR R R NR NR 10000 NR 450

height (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
(see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) Above 10 m but R R R NR NR R R R 50000 5000 (see Note 14) 450
not exceeding (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
15 m in height (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
3) Above 15 m and R R R NR R R R R 100000 10000 (see Note10) NR
up to 24 m in
height

84
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
4) Above 24 m and R R R NR R R R R 150000 20000 (see Note 11) NR
up to 30 m in
height
5) Above 30 m in R R R NR R R R R 200000 20000 (see Note 12) NR
height
INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS (G) (see Note 17)

a) Low Hazard (G-1)

(see Note 18)
i) Covered area up R NR NR NR NR R NR NR NR 5000 NR 450
to 100 m2 (see Note 4) (see Note 5) (see Note 5)
ii) Covered area R R NR R NR R NR NR NR 20000 NR 450
more than (see Note 8) (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
100 m2 and (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
up to 500 m2
iii) Covered R R NR R NR R R NR NR 20000 NR 450
area more than (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
500 m2 (for (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
building height
up to 15 m)
iv) Covered area R R R NR R R R R 75000 5000 (see Note 14) NR
more than 500 m2 (see Note 4) (see Note 6)
(for building height
above 15 m)

85
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
b) Moderate Hazard
(G-2)
(see Note 18)
i) Covered area R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 10000 NR 450
up to 100 m2
ii) Covered R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 20000 NR 900
area more than
100 m2 and up
to 500 m2
iii) Covered area R R NR R NR R R R NR 50000 NR 900
more than 500 m2
and up to 1000 m2
(for height up to
15 m)
iv) Covered area R R R NR R R R R 100000 10000 (see Note 14) NR
more than 500 m2
and up to 1000 m2
(for height above
15 m)
v) Covered area R R R NR R R R R 150000 20000 (see Note 11) NR
more than 1000 m2

c) High Hazard
(G-3)
(see Note 19)

86
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
i) Covered area R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 10000 NR 900
up to 50 m2
ii) Covered area R R NR NR NR R R R NR 25000 NR 900
more than 50 m2
and up to 150 m2
iii) Covered area R R R NR NR R R R 50000 10000 (see Note 14) NR
more than 150 m2
and up to 300 m2
iv) Covered area R R R NR R R R R 100000 20000 (see Note 10) NR
more than 300 m2
and up to 500 m2
v) Covered area R R R NR R R R R 150000 20000 (see Note 11) NR
more than 500 m2
STORAGE BUILDINGS(H) (see Note 20)

1) Below 15 m in R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 25000 NR 900

height and covered
area less than
250 m2
2) Below 15 m in
height and covered
area more than
250 m2
i) Ground floor R R R NR R R R R 50000 10000 (see Note 14) 450
only
87
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
ii) Ground plus R R R NR R R R R 75000 10000 (see Note 10) 450
one floor
iii) More than R R R NR R R R R 100000 10000 (see Note 10) 450
ground plus
one floor
iv) Multi-level Car R R R NR R R R NR 150000 10000 (see Note 11) 900
parking (MLCP)
HAZARDOUS BUILDINGS (J) (see Note 20)
1) Up to 15 m in
height
i) Single Storey R R R NR R R R R Minimum 240 NR (see Note 21) NR
Building min firefighting
requirements
ii) More than one R R R R R R R R Minimum 240 50000 (see Note 21) 900
floor building but min firefighting
not exceeding 15m requirements
MERCANTILE BUILDINGS (F)

a) F-1 and F-2

(see Note 16)
1) Less than 15 m in
height

88
 fffAppendic

Appendix-A - (Continued)
Sl. Type of Building Type of Installation Water Supply Pump capacity (liter/min)
No. Occupancy (liter)
Fire First Wet Riser Down Yard Automatic Manually Automatic Under-ground Terrace Pump Near At the
Extin- Aid Comer Hydrant Sprinkler Operated Detection Static Water Tank over Underground Terrace Tank
guisher Hose System Electronic and Alarm Storage Tank Respective Static Water Level with
Reel Fire Alarm System Combined Tower Storage Tank Minimum
System (see Note 2) Capacity for Terrace (Fire Pump) Pressure of
(see Note 1) Wet Riser, with 3.5kgf/cm2
Yard Hydrant Minimum
and Sprinklers Pressure of
per set of 3.5kgf/cm2 at
pumps Remotest
Location
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
i) Ground plus R R NR NR NR R NR NR NR 5000 NR 450
one stoey, (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
with total of all (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
floor area not
exceeding
500 m2
ii) Ground plus R R NR R NR R R NR NR 20000 NR 900
one stoey and (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
total of all (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
floor area
exceeding
500 m2
iii) More than R R NR R NR R R NR NR 25000 NR 900
ground plus (see Note 4) (5000) (450)
one storey (see Note 6) (see Note 6)
2) Above 15 m but R R R NR R R R R 100000 10000 (see Note 10) NR
not exceeding
24 m in height
3) Above 24 m but R R R NR R R R R 200000 20000 (see Note 11) NR
not exceeding
30 m in height
b) Underground R R R NR R R R R 150000 10000 (see Note 11) NR
shopping complex
(F-3)

89
 fffAppendic

Legend

R- Required to be provided
NR- Not required to be provided

NOTE:
1) MOEFA System shall also include talk-back system and public address system for the occupancies given in the table for (d) (1) (iii)
under A-5,(a)(1) (iv) and (a) (2) under C-1, and (a) (2) under D-1 to D-5, in all buildings 15 m and above in height, except for A-3 and
A-4 occupancies where these shall be provided for buildings of height 24 m and above. These shall also be provided in car parking
areas more than 300 m2 and in multi-level car parking irrespective of their areas.
2) Automatic detection and alarm system is not required to be provided in car parking area. Such detection system shall however be
required in other areas of car parking such as electrical rooms, cabins and other areas.
3) Buildings above 15 m in height are not to be permitted for occupancies A-1 and A-2.
4) Required to be installed in basement, if area of basement exceeds 200 m2.
5) Required to be provided if basement area exceeds 200m2.
6) Additional value given in parenthesis shall be added if basement area exceeds 200 m2.
7) Required to be provided for buildings with more than two storeys (Ground + one).
8) Required to be provided for buildings with height above 15 m and above.
9) Sprinklers shall be fed water from both underground static water storage tank and terrace tank.
10) Provide required number of sets of pumps each consisting of one electric and one diesel pump (stand by) of capacity 2280 litre/min
and one electric pump of capacity 180 litre/min (see Fig. 1) ( see also notes 22 and 23).
11) Provide required number of sets of pumps each consisting of two electric and one diesel pump (stand by) of capacity 2280 litre/min
and two electric pump of capacity 180 litre/min (see Fig. 2)( see also notes 22 and 23).
12) Provide required number of sets of pumps each consisting of two electric and one diesel pump(stand by) of capacity 2280 litre/min
and two electric pump of capacity 180 litre/min (see Fig. 2) (see also notes 22 and 23).
13) Lower levels in high rise buildings 60 m or above in height are likely to experience high pressure and therefore, it is recommended to
consider multi-stage, multi outlet pumps (creating pressure zones) or variable frequency drive pumps or any other equivalent
arrangement.
14) Provide required number of sets of pumps each consisting of one electric and one diesel pump (stand by) of capacity 1620 litre/min
and one electric pump of capacity 180 litre/min (see fig. 1) (see also Notes 22 and 23).
15) Required to be provided for buildings with more than one storey.
90
 fffAppendic

16) Buildings above 30 m in height not to be permitted for Group B, Group C, Group D and Group F occupancies.
17) The requirements given in this table for Group G Industrial Buildings are for small scale industry units. For other industries the
requirements will have to be worked out on the basis of relevant Indian Standards and also in consultation with the local fire
authorities.
18) Buildings above 18 m in height not to be permitted for G-1 and G-2 occupancies.
19) Buildings above 15 m in height not to be permitted for G-3 occupancies.
20) Buildings above 15 m in height not to be permitted for Group H and Group J occupancies. However, buildings above 45 m in height
shall not be permitted for multi-level car parking (MLCP) Occupancy.
21) Pump capacity shall be based on the covered area of the building.
22) One set of pumps shall be provided for each 100 hydrants or part thereof, with a maximum of two sets. In case of more than one
pump set installation, both pump sets shall be interconnected at their delivery headers.
23) Alternative to provisions of additional set of pumps, the objective can be met by providing additional diesel pump of the same
capacity and doubling the water tank capacity as required for one set of pumps.
24) As per the requirement of local authority dry riser may be used in hilly areas, industrial areas or as required.
25) The buildings indicated in Col.(2) of above table shall include the following buildings:

Group A- Residential Buildings:

This shall include, among others, Apartment Houses, Dormitories, Hostels, Barracks, Hotels
Group B- Educational Buildings:
This shall include, among others, School, College, other training institutions involving assembly for instruction, education or re-
creation for not less than 20 students.
Group C- Institutional Buildings:
This shall include, among others Hospitals, Nursing Home, Sanatoria.
Group D - Assembly Buildings:
This shall include, among others, buildings used for Recreation, Social, Religious purpose, for example, Theatres, Motion Picture
Houses, Assembly Halls, Auditoria, Exhibition Halls, Museums, Restaurants, Places of Worship, Passenger Stations, Terminals of
Air public transportation services, Stadia.

91
 fffAppendic

Group E - Business Buildings:

This shall include, among others, Offices, Banks, Professional Establishments, Laboratories, Research Establishments, Libraries,
Test Houses, Computer installations, Telephone Exchanges.
(For complete details of buildings under various Groups, Clause 3.1.2, Page-13 of NBC 2016, Vol-1, Part-4 may be referred)
26) Typical system with one electric and one diesel fire pump shall be as shown in Fig 1 and 3
27) Typical system with two electric and one diesel fire pump shall be as shown in Fig 2 and 4.

92
 fffAppendic

APPENDIX —B
TERMINOLOGY
For the purpose of these Specifications, the following definitions shall apply:
1. Air Release Valve: A device by which the trapped air inside a riser main is
expelled by water as the system is being charged.
2. Air Vessel: A cylindrical vessel installed in the wet-riser system at the bottom
and top levels to counteract the water hammer effects.
3. Authority concerned: An Organization, office, or individual responsible for
enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving or accepting
equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure.
4. Automatic Fire Detection and Alarm System: A system comprising components
and sub-systems required for automatically detecting smoke, heat or fire,
initiating an alarm and other actions as appropriate. This system also includes
manually operated electronic fire alarm (MOEFA) system.
Note- MOEFA System (with or without automatic fire detection and alarm
system) includes all or some of the components such as manual call stations
(initiating an alarm for fire and other actions as required), talk-back system and
public address system.
5. Automatic Sprinkler System: A system of water pipes fitted with sprinkler
heads at suitable intervals and heights, and designed to actuate automatically,
control or extinguish a fire by the discharge of water.
6. Building, height of: The vertical distance measured in the case of flat roofs,
from the average level of the ground around and contiguous to the building or
as decided by the Authority to the terrace of the last liveable floor of the
building adjacent to the external wall; and in the case of pitched roofs, up to
the point where the external surface of the outer wall intersects the finished
surface of the sloping roof; and in the case of gables facing the road, the mid-
point between the eaves level and the ridge. Where the building is located in a
sloped terrain, height shall be determined from the lowest level (that is
approachable by the fire service vehicles) to the terrace level. Architectural
features serving no other function except that of decorations, shall be excluded
for the purpose of measuring heights.
7. Down-Comer: An arrangement for firefighting within the building by means of
down-comer pipe connected to terrace tank through terrace pump, gate valve
and non-return valve and having mains not less than 100 mm internal diameter
with landing valves on each floor/landing. It is also fitted with inlet connections
at ground level for charging with water by pumping from fire service appliances
and air release valve at roof level to release trapped air inside.
8. Dry Riser: An arrangement of firefighting within the building by means of
vertical rising mains not less than 100 mm internal diameter with landing valves
on each floor/landing which is normally dry but is capable of being charged

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with water usually by pumping from fire service appliances.

9. Fire Compartment: A space within a building that is enclosed by fire barrier or
fire resistant walls on all sides, including the top and bottom.
10. Fire Pump: An electric/diesel pump installed at static water tank to charge the
wet riser systems.
11. Fire Resistance Rating: The time that a material or construction will withstand
the standard fire exposure as determined by the fire test done in accordance
with the standard methods of fire tests of materials/structures as per the
accepted standard.
12. Fire Service Connections: This is a 4-way collecting breeching with blank caps
(without non-return valve) fixed to a 150 mm diameter pipe which is connected
to the fire tank for filling from external source:
13. Fire Service Inlet: A 2- or 3-way collecting head with non-return valves fitted to
the down comer/wet riser main, so that in case of need, fire service can directly
pressurize the system with their pump.
14. Foot Valve: A valve fixed in the suction strainer of the fire pump which opens only
inwards to allow in-rush of water into the pump suction and fire pump when
the fire pump is actuated automatically/manually.
15. High Rise Building: A Building 15 m or above in height (irrespective of its
occupancy).
16. Hose Reel: Firefighting equipment, consisting of a length of tubing fitted with a
shut-off nozzle and connected to a reel, with a permanent connection to a
pressurized water supply.
17. Jockey Pump: A pump of small capacity which is set to come into operation,
automatically with drop in static pressure in the system and to automatically
stop when the pre-set pressure is attained.
18. Landing valve: An assembly comprising valve(s) and outlet(s) connection from a
riser system.
19. Priming Tank: A small tank erected in/over the pump house above the
firefighting pumps to keep the pump casing and suction of the fire pump
permanently flooded.
20. Pressure Switch: A switch connected on delivery line of fire pump or in the
body of hydro- pneumatic tank at pre-set pressure level so designed to
automatically start the fire pump or jockey pump, as the case may be, when the
pressure in the system falls below the pre- set level.
21. Pump Panel: Panel comprising starting, stopping and indicating devices of fire
pumps.
22. Stand-by Pump: A pump of same capacity as fire pump, driven by a diesel
engine or connected to any other alternate source of electric supply.
23. Static Water Tank: Underground or surface water tank, constructed to store
water for firefighting purpose.
24. Terrace Pump: An electricity driven pump, located on the terrace connected to

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a terrace tank with gate valve on suction side and to the internal hydrant
system with non-return valve on delivery side.
25. Terrace Tank: A concrete/masonry/plastic steel tank constructed or erected on
terrace of building for firefighting purpose.
26. Wet-Riser: An arrangement for firefighting within the building by means of
vertical rising mains of not less than 100 mm internal nominal diameter with
landing valves on each floor/landing for firefighting purposes and permanently
charged with water from a pressurized supply.
27. Wet-Riser-cum-Down Comer: An arrangement for fire lighting within the building
by means of vertical rising mains of not less than 100 mm. internal diameter
with landing valves on each floor/landing connected to terrace tank for
firefighting purpose, through a terrace pump, gate valve and non-return valve
near the tank and to a fire pump, gate and non-return valves, over the static
tank.

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APPENDIX -C
C.1 INTRODUCTION
This appendix cover suggestive guidelines for maintenance and operation of
the Wet Riser System.
C.1.1 OBJECTIVE:-
(i) To keep the entire system fully operational and functional at all times.
(ii) In case full system cannot be kept functional for unavoidable reason, as
much as possible, the installation shall be retained functional by isolating
the defective section.
C.2 MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT OF SYSTEM COMPONENTS
For maintaining firefighting system following points are to be taken care of:-
C.2.1 To ensure availability of water in UG tank and terrace tank all the time and to
maintain the tanks in clean condition.
C.2.2 To ensure that the piping system is free from leakage. Any portion found to
be leaking is to be isolated, rectified and connected with healthy system in
shortest possible time.
C.2.3 To ensure that all pumps are in good running condition. Any pump found to be
defective is to be isolated by closing valves and attended immediately and
put in to service in minimum time.
All pump glands shall be maintained in efficient working condition and the
packing renewed as required to maintain the efficiency.
All working parts shall be kept clean and lightly oiled. Any necessary repairs
shall be put in hand and carried out immediately.
C.2.4 To ensure availability of power for electrical pumps, working of starters,
switch gear and other electrical components.
C.2.5 To ensure healthiness of diesel engine starting system, battery voltage, battery
charger and availability of adequate diesel for engine operation.
C.2.6 To check all landing valves of internal and external hydrants, isolating valves
and replace the defective ones whenever necessary
C.2.7 To check automatic operation of entire system by opening landing valves at
different locations.
C.2.8 To conduct fire drill at regular interval.

C.3 PERIODICAL TESTING

For achieving the objectives of Para C.1.1 and meeting the requirement of
Para C.2 periodical testing and checking the system is essential. Various
activities and their duration have been tabulated in Table C.1.

C.4 PROCEDURE
C.4.1 Though the firefighting system operation is automatic, however for daily
checking and attending to the system in case of operation, a trained pump
operator shall be available round the clock.
C.4.2 Operation and Maintenance instructions shall be available in the pump
room and fire control room.
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C.4.3 Water for firefighting purpose is not to be used for any other purpose.
However in order to avoid stagnation, the same shall be changed /
cleaned regularly.
C.4.4 Maintaining Diesel Engine is very important for the system operation since
during fire, power supply is deliberately or un-deliberately switched off.
Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) of engine shall be given to the
authorized service center of engine manufacturer. Adequate diesel should
either be available in the pump house or nearby so that operation is not
discontinued for want of diesel.
C.4.5 Hydrant Mains / Ring Mains shall be tested once a fortnight with a pump
delivering at its maximum pressure. A running test with two or more hose
lines each 30m long operating shall be carried out.
C.4.6 If any out let is found to be defective and replacement is not easily available
the whole assembly should be removed and be replaced by blank off plate
so that the system remains operational.
C.4.7 Hose reels shall be subjected to regular inspection to ensure that all valve
are functional, out let nozzle not choked. At least once in a year the same
shall be subjected to operation to ensure that hose reel is in good condition
and that the coupling joints are water tight. Flow should also be checked
for the leakage of hose reel.
C.4.8 All hydrants shall be examined systematically once a week to ensure that
valves and spring catches are maintained in good condition.
Spare washers shall be kept for hydrant valve seats.
C.4.9 Cut-off valves shall be thoroughly overhauled annually to remove sludge
and other foreign matter collected in the valve seating.
C.4.10 All isolating valves shall be checked for operation. The valves in closed
position be opened and closed couple of times and the valves in open
position be closed and opened couple of times so that when required, the
valves perform their function.
C.4.11 All hose boxes/hose stations shall be inspected externally once every
week to ensure that the equipment installed therein is intact. Further, the
hose boxes/hose stations shall be cleaned internally and externally once a
month.
When the hose gets worn out at the tail end of the coupling(s), it is
permissible to cut the end(s) of the hose. However should the lengths of
the hose after cutting(s) fall below 90 percent of its original, the hose
shall be discarded.
A hose register shall be kept showing Information such as date
purchased, date brought into use, date cut (if reduced in length), is useful.
Any hose becoming inefficient through use, neglect or from any other
cause, shall be discarded.
Fire protection hose shall 'not be used for purposes other than fire
protection and drill.
Hose pipes and their couplings shall be checked to ensure there is no

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leakage during their use. The female coupling cam tooth mechanism be
operated and lubricated for ensuring ease of operation.
C.4.12 Power supply to the pump house is not to be discontinued for any reason.
Alternative arrangement shall be made in case any feeding switch gear is
under repair / replacement.
C.4.13 It has to be ensured that there are no obstructions in front of the hydrants
impending accessibility

C.5 FIRE DRILL

For making the users familiar with the system, Fire Drills shall be conducted
for high rise buildings, in accordance with the fire safety plan, at least once
every three months for buildings during the first two years. Thereafter, fire
drills shall be conducted at least once every six months.
All occupants of the building shall participate in the fire drill. However,
occupants of the building, other than building service employees are not
required to leave the floor or use the exits during the drill.
A written record of such drill shall be kept on the premises for a three years
period and shall be readily available for fire brigade inspection.
For other buildings, fire drill shall be carried out once in six months.
Local fire service and nodal officer-in-charge of various parts of the building
shall be involved in conducting fire drill. Operation of the system shall be
demonstrated so that all users are confident of the system and aware of
their duties and responsibilities during fire.
For further details, Annexure D- Guidelines for fire drill and evacuation
procedures for high rise buildings of Vol-1, Part-4 of NBC 2016 may be
referred.
TABLE C.1
PERIODICAL TESTING AND MAINTENANCE CHART
S. No. System Component Activity Duration

1. Water Tanks (i) Level Check Daily

(ii) Cleaning Once in a year
2. Pumps (i) Running Daily (for min. 5
minutes)
(ii) Test flow Annually
(iii) Lubrication Quarterly
iv)Gland packing check Weekly
Electrically Driven Pumps:

i) Bearing grease cup Weekly

3. Engine (i) Running Daily (for 5

minutes)

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(ii) Lubrication Quarterly

(iii) Battery Status Weekly
(iv) Fuel Tank check Daily
(v) Servicing As per engine
manufacturer’s
recommendations.
4. Motor (i) Running Daily
(ii) Starter contact Weekly
checking
(iii) Insulation Resistance Half yearly
5. Hydrant Mains / Ring Mains i)Testing Fortnightly
6. Piping (i) Pressure Daily
(ii) Flushing once in a year
7. Hydrants examination Weekly

8. Valves (i) operation and oiling Monthly

(Landing, Cut -off and if necessary
Isolation)
(ii) Overhauling of all Annually
Cut- off valves
9. Valves (i) Examination Half yearly
(Suction and Delivery)
10. Electrical Panels and Control (i) Operation Monthly
System (ii) Connection and Quarterly
system components
11. Hose boxes i) External Inspection Weekly
ii) Internal and External Monthly
cleaning
12. Hose Reel and Hose Pipes (i) Physical check Monthly
(ii) Operation check Annually
(iii) Replacement Depending upon
physical condition.
13. Fire Brigade Connections/ (i) Physical check Monthly.
Inlet (ii) Operation check Annually
14. Instantaneous Coupling (i) Physical check Monthly.
(ii) Lubrication Once in Six
months.
15. Painting (i) Out Door Once in a year.
(ii) In Door Once in two
years.

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APPENDIX-D
MAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
D.1 Maintenance of other firefighting installation has been described in Appendix-
‘C’ which hold good for sprinkler installations also. In addition following points
shall be taken care.
D.1.1 Sprinkler shall not be re-conditioned or repaired. Used and/or defective sprinklers
shall be replaced by new ones.
D.1.2 Sprinklers shall not be painted after installation.
D.1.3 Spare Sprinklers - A stock of spare sprinklers shall be kept in Fire Control Room
so that prompt replacement is possible after operation/damage of a sprinkler
head. A minimum of 5% of the installed capacity or 25 sprinklers of all types
whichever is more shall be kept in stock.
Spanners for sprinklers and Teflon tape shall also be kept along with spare
sprinklers in readiness.
D.1.4 As far as possible, the installation shall be maintained in operating condition by
blanking off pipe work feeding the inoperative part or parts where work is
taking place.
D.1.5 The inoperative part, if defective shall be attended to and connected with the
operative system.
D.1.6 Action following sprinkler operation
D.1.6.1 Following the operation of sprinklers, the operated head shall be replaced with
new ones and water supply shall be restored.
D.1.6.2 The sprinklers in the vicinity of the operated sprinklers shall also be checked for
damage by heat or any other cause and replaced if necessary.
D.1.6.3 The sprinkler pump shall not be shut off until complete extinguishment of the
fire. The starting of the pump shall be automatic but the stopping of the pump
after an extinguishment shall be manual.
D.1.7 All piping shall be examined to determine its conditions at least once a year.
D.1.8 All Installation Control Valves and associated equipment shall be serviced and
tested annually.
D.1.9 Discharge test of sprinklers shall be carried out at least once in six months.
D.1.10 Manual testing of the system shall be carried out once in six months.
D.1.11 When normally opened valves are closed following system operation or test,
suitable procedure shall be instituted to ensure that they are re-opened.
D.1.12 The entire system shall flushed at least once in a year.
D.1.13 The sprinkler bulbs shall be kept free from paint or dust.

D.2 MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES

Following guidelines shall be followed for sprinkler maintenance.
D.2.1 Maintenance and testing shall be carried out in a planned and systematic manner
and records kept.
D.2.2 Only trained personnel shall be engaged in the work. Contract with qualified
agency for service, test and operation is recommended.

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D.2.3 Other firefighting installations are operated manually i.e. to operate a first aid
hose reel or internal/external hydrant a person is required. As such during fire,
when the system is in operation, somebody in the building is aware of it. In case
of sprinkler operation, no one will come to know. For looking after sprinkler
installation following personnel shall be available at all hours.
(a) A trained pump operator shall be available in the pump room.
(b) Depending upon the size of installations at least two or more trained personnel
shall be available in fire control room.

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APPENDIX—E
LIST OF RELEVANT INDIAN STANDARDS
S. No IS No. Title
1) lS-8757 Glossary of terms associated with Fire safety
2) IS-884 Specification for first-aid hose reel for firefighting
3) IS-901 Specification for couplings, double male and double female
instantaneous pattern for firefighting,
4) IS-902 Specification (for suction hose couplings for firefighting
Purposes (third revision)
5) IS-903 Specification for fire hose delivery couplings, branch pipe,
nozzles and nozzle spanner. (fourth revision)
6) IS-904 Specification for two and three- way suction collecting
heads for firefighting purposes.
7) IS-907 Specification for suction strainers, cylindrical type for
firefighting purpose. (second revision)
8) IS-908 Specification for fire hydrant, stand post type. (second
revision)
9) IS-909 Specification for underground fire hydrant. Sluice valve
type
10) IS-636 Specification for Non percolating flexible firefighting
delivery hose.
11) IS-7637 Glossary of terms for firefighting equipment.
12) IS-937 Specification for washers for water fittings for firefighting
purposes.
13) IS-1641 Code of practice for fire safety of buildings (general):
General
Principles for fire grading and classification.
14) IS-1642 Code of practice for fire safety of buildings (General) :
Details of construction. (second revision)
15) IS-1643 Code of practice for fire safety of buildings (general) '
Exposure hazard. (first revision)
16) IS-1644 Code of practice for fire safety of buildings (general):Exit
requirements and personal hazard. (second revision)
17) IS-1646 Code of practice for fire safety of buildings(general):
Electrical installations. (third revision)
18) IS-2871 Specification for branch pipe, universal for firefighting
purposes.
19) IS-2930 Functional requirements for hose Iaying tender for fire
brigade use.
20) IS-5290 Specification for landing valves.
21) IS-8090 Specification for couplings, branch pipe, nozzle, used in
hose reel tubing for firefighting.
22) IS-8442 Specification for stand post type water and foam monitor
for firefighting (first revision)
23) IS-9972 Specification for automatic sprinkler heads. (first revision)
24) IS-11101 Specification for extended branch pipe for fire brigade use
25) IS -12349 Fire protection Safety sign.

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26) IS -12407 Graphic symbols for fire protection plan.

27) IS -9668 Code of practice for provision and maintenance of water
supplies and firefighting.
28) IS -3844 Code of practice for installation and maintenance of
internal fire hydrants and hose reel on premises.
29) IS -12585 Specification for thermoplastic house (Textile Reinforced)
for Water General purpose.
30) IS -10221 Code of practice for coating and wrapping of underground
mild steel pipe lines. (first revision)
31) IS-15105 Design and installation of fixed automatic sprinkler fire
extinguisher system-Code of Practice.
32) IS -325 Three phase induction motors.
33) IS-1822 AC Motor starter for voltage not exceeding 1000 volts.
34) IS -3624 Pressure and vacuum gauges.
35) IS-1520 Horizontal centrifugal pumps for clear, cold, fresh water.
36) IS-1239 Mild steel tubes, tubulars and other wrought steel fittings.
37) IS -3589 Specification for Steel pipes for water, and sewage
38) IS -6392 Steel pipe flanges.
39) IS -778 Specification for copper alloy gate, global and check valves
and water works purpose (fourth revision)
40) IS -2592 Recommendation for methods of measurement or fluid
flow be means of orifice plates and nozzles.
41) IS -732 Code practice for electrical wiring installations.
42) IS 900 Code of practice for installation and maintenance of
induction motors.
43) IS -1248 Direct acting electrical indicating analogue electrical
Measures and their accessories general requirement
instruments.
44) IS-2516 A. C. Circuit breakers for voltages not exceeding 1000 volts.
45) IS -4047 Heavy duty air break switches and composite units of air
break switches and fuses (for voltage not exceeding 1000
volts.
46) IS -2208 HRC cartridge fuse links up to 650 volts.
47) IS -1554 PVC insulated (heavy duty) electric cables for working
(Part I) voltage up to and including 1100 volts.
48) IS:1536 Specification for Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron pressure
pipes for water, gas & sewage (first revision)
49) IS 1537 Specification for Vertically Cast Iron pressure pipes for
water, gas & sewage (first revision)
50) IS:1538 Specification for Cast Iron Fittings for pressure pipes for
water, gas & sewage (third revision)
51) IS:780 Sluice valve for water works purposes (50 to 300 mm
size)
52) IS:13095 Butterfly valves for general purpose.
53) IS:13039 Code of practice for provision and maintenance of External
Hydrant System (first revision)

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APPENDIX—F
IS : 6392 - 1971
TABLE 17 PLATE FLANGES FOR WELDING
(Clauses 4.1 and 5.1)
Nominal Pressure 1.6N/mm2
All dimensions in millimeters

Kø ”

* These dimensions are not to scale

Nominal Pipe Flange Raised Face Bolting Drilling
Size outer
Dø b d4ø f No. d2ø Kø
diameter d1ø
10 17.2 90 14 40 2 M12 4 14 60
15 21.3 95 14 45 2 M12 4 14 65
20 26.9 105 16 58 2 M12 4 14 75
25 33.7 115 16 68 2 M12 4 14 85
32 42.4 140 16 78 2 M16 4 18 100
40 48.3 150 16 88 3 M16 4 18 110
50 60.3 165 18 102 3 M16 4 18 125
65 76.1 185 18 122 3 M16 4 18 145
80 88.9 200 20 138 3 M16 8 18 160
100 114.3 220 20 158 3 M16 8 18 180
125 139.7 250 22 188 3 M16 8 18 210
150 168.3 285 22 212 3 M20 8 22 240
175 193.7 315 24 242 3 M20 8 22 270
200 219.1 340 24 268 3 M20 12 22 295
250 273 405 26 320 3 M24 12 26 355
300 323.9 460 28 378 4 M24 12 26 410
350 355.6 520 32 438 4 M24 16 26 470
400 406.4 580 36 490 4 M27 16 30 525
500 508 715 44 610 4 M30 20 33 650
600 609.6 840 52 725 5 M33 20 36 770
700 711.2 910 58 795 5 M33 24 36 840
800 812.8 1025 64 900 5 M36 24 39 950
900 914.4 1125 72 1000 5 M36 28 39 1050
1000 1016 1255 78 1115 5 M39 28 42 1170
1200 1220 1485 94 1330 5 M45 32 48 1390

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The material of the shutter shall be

as decided by the Architect to
comply with the aesthetics of the
area. Only letters need to in RED,
body of shutter can be of any
colour as decided by the Architect.

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(a) Two end side with central feed (b) Three end side with end feed

(c) Two end centre with end feed (d) Three end centre with central feed

TYPICAL LAOUT OF CONNECTION OF SPRINKLERS

Fig. 12

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APPENDIX-G
EXTRACTS FROM NBC 2016, VOLUME-1, PART-4
1) Clause 3.4.6.3:
Substation/Transformers
Areas in substation shall not be used as storage/dump areas or for other utility
purposes other than those required for the functioning of the substation. The
substation area should be adequately ventilated. An independent, ventilated or
air conditioned MV panel room shall be provided on the ground level or first
basement. This room shall be provided with access from outside (or through exit
passageway accessible from outside). The MV panel room shall be provided with
fire resistant walls and doors of fire resistance of not less than 120 min. If the
licensees agree to provide meters on upper floors, the licensees’ cables shall be
segregated from consumers’ cables by providing a partition in the shaft. Meter
rooms on upper floors shall not open into staircase enclosures and should be
ventilated directly to open air outside or in electrical room of 120 min fire
resistant walls. Electrical MV main distribution panel and lift panels shall be
provided with CO2/inert gas flooding system for all panel compartments with a
cylinder located beside the panel.

3.4.6.3.1 Oil filled substation

A substation or a switch-station with oil filled equipment shall be limited to be
installed in utility building or in outdoor location. Such substation/utility building
shall be at least 7 m away from the adjoining building(s). Substation equipment
(exceeding oil capacity of 2000 liter) in utility building shall have fire rated baffle
walls of 240 min rating constructed between such equipment, raised to at least
600 mm above the height of the equipment (including height of oil conservators)
and exceeding 300 mm on each side of the equipment. All transformers where
capacity exceeds 10 MVA shall be protected by high velocity water spray
systems or nitrogen injection system.

3.4.6.3.2 Dry type substation

Transformers located inside a building shall be of dry type and all
substation/switch room walls, ceiling, floor, opening including doors shall have a
fire resistance rating of 120 min. Access to the substation shall be provided from
the nearest fire exit/exit staircase for the purpose of electrical isolation.

3.4.6.4 Standby supply

Diesel generator set(s) shall not be installed at any floor other than ground/first
basement. If the same are installed indoors, proper ventilation and exhaust shall
be planned. The DG set room shall be separated by 120 min fire resistance rated
walls and doors.
The oil tank for the DG sets (if not in the base of the DG) shall be provided with a
dyked enclosure having a volumetric capacity of at least 10 percent more than

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the volume of the oil tank. The enclosure shall be filled with sand for a height of
300 mm. For detailed information regarding fire safety requirements for
hazardous petroleum products, reference may be made to The Petroleum Act,
1934 and the Rules framed thereunder.

2) Clause 4.10.1: A qualified fire officer with experience of not less than 3 years
shall be appointed who will be available on the premises, for large educational
complexes, business building with height 30 m and above, residential building
with height 60 m and above, institutional building of 15 m and above, starred
hotels and Group D-6 occupancy.
3) Clause 6.5.2 Fire Protection for Business Buildings (Group-E)
a) For Subdivision E-2 of Business Buildings (Group-E) (laboratories, outpatient
clinics, libraries, test houses & research establishments), the requirement shall
be provision of automatic fire detection alarm system, while for fire protection,
CO2 and/or foam-based installation to be planned based on the requirements.
b) For Subdivision E-3, E-4 and E-5 of Business Buildings (Group-E), the
requirement shall be provision of automatic fire detection alarm system, while
for fire protection, any or combination of clean agents, mist technologies,
hypoxic air technology, etc., may be planned for appropriate/special
situations/locations. Electrical panels may be provided with CO2/inert gas
flooding system based on the requirement and reliability of power for the
functional requirement and performance.

4) Classification of buildings based on occupancy

The broad classification of various type of occupancies into different Groups as
per NBC 2016, Vol-1, Part-4 is as under: -
1. Group-A Residential
2. Group-B Educational
3. Group-C Institutional
4. Group-D Assembly
5. Group-E Business
6. Group-F Mercantile
7. Group-G Industrial
8. Group-H Storage
9. Group-J Hazardous

5) Annex E : Additional Requirements For High Rise Buildings

E-5 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
The specific requirements for electrical installations in multi-storeyed buildings
given in Part 8 ‘Building Services, Section 2 Electrical and Allied Installations’ of
the Code and Section 7 of National Electrical Code 2011 shall be followed.
Wherever transformers are planned at higher floors, the HT cables shall be
routed through a separate shaft having its own fire resistance rating of 120 min.
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Wherever HT generators are planned centrally at ground or first basement level,

redundant transformers and HT cables shall be planned for buildings above 60 m
in height.
E-6 FIRE PROTECTION
For residential occupancies above 120 m in height and other occupancies above
60 m in height, the sprinklers shall be fed from the main and an
alternate/standby riser with suitable isolation valves. The entire sprinkler system
shall be designed in accordance with good practice [4(20)]. Where the height of
the building exceeds 150 m to 175 m, fire water static storage and pumps shall
be required to be provided at 160 m to 180 m and thereafter at intermediate
floors at higher levels enabling efficient and functional firefighting installations.
The static fire water storage tanks located at such levels shall have capacity at
minimum half of the storage of underground static water storage tank
prescribed in Appendix A of this specifications. Such tanks shall be
supplemented with water supplies through one working and one standby pump
of capacity 2 850 litre/min with two risers at alternate locations feeding to such
fire water static storage tanks. The fire pump’s requirement and capacity shall
also be derived for occupancy type as per Appendix A of this specifications
substituting the diesel pump with electrical pump. The fire pump room at such
level shall have dedicated connectivity through passageway (with 120 min
integrity) from the firefighting shaft. Such fire pump room shall have 120 min
fire resisting wall and provided with adequate ventilation with talk-back
connectivity to the main fire pump room and Fire Command Centre. For high rise
buildings, seismic bracings shall be considered for firefighting installations
depending on seismic vulnerability of the region and the type of occupancy.
E-7 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY AUDIT
9.15 Fire and life safety audit shall be carried out for all buildings having a
height of more than 15 m.
9.16 Such audits shall preferably be conducted by a third-party auditor having
requisite experience in fire and life safety inspections.
9.17 Frequency of such audits shall be once in two years.
E-8 HELIPAD
For high rise buildings above 200 m in height, provision for helipad is
recommended for specific requirements like landing of fire equipment, and
support facilities or other emergencies.

6) For Firefighting Requirements of ATRIUM, ANNEX F of NBC 2016 Vol-1, Part-4

may be referred to.

7) For Firefighting Requirements of CAR PARKING FACILITIES, ANNEX H of NBC 2016

Vol-1, Part-4 may be referred to.

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APPENDIX-H
EXTRACTS FROM IS 13039 : 2014
Para 5.2.1:- The sub-station(s) and/or D.G. house(s)- supplying power to the fire
pump(s) shall be of incombustible construction and shall be located at least 6
m away from all surrounding buildings.

Para 5.2.2 :- Electric supply feeder(s) to sub-station(s) supplying power to fire pump
shall, consist of armoured cables buried underground which shall not
pass under any building or permanent structure.
If the feeders are laid inside an underground cable duct/ gallery, they
shall be placed in a corner of the duct/gallery and shall be isolated from
other cables in the duct/gallery by means of fire bricks/sand
packing/other suitable passive protection of at least 30 min fire rating
(However, the same has been increased to 120 min in NBC 2016 ).
Under extenuating circumstances, where it is not feasible to lay the
feeders underground, overhead feeders may be laid provided they do
not fall within a horizontal distance of,
a) 15 m of any process buildings/plant or tanks containing flammable
liquids; or
b) 6 m of any other building or tanks containing non-flammable liquids
or of storage in open.

Para 5.2.4 :- A direct feeder without any tapping shall be laid from the sub-station to
the pump house. The feeder shall consist of an armoured cable buried
underground and shall not pass under any building or permanents
Structure.
The cable run inside the substation from the breaker up to its point of
burial or entry into cable duct/gallery shall be provided with suitable
passive protection of at least 30 min fire rating. If the feeder is laid inside
an Underground cable duct/gallery, it shall be placed in a corner of the
duct/gallery and shall be isolated from other cable in the duct/gallery by
means of fire bricks/sand package/other suitable passive protection of at
least 30 min fire rating.

Under extenuating circumstances, overhead feeders may be laid provided

they do not fall within a horizontal distance of,
a) 15 m of any process buildings/plant or tanks containing flammable
liquids or
b) 6 m of any other building or tanks containing non-flammable
liquids or of storage in open.
Note: In case of High Hazard ‘B’ occupancies, if the tender to the fire pump(s) is
not buried underground two sets of feeder shall be provided which shall:

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a) conform to the above distance provisions:

b) be run along two different routes in such a way that failure of more
than one route due to a single mishap would be a remote
possibility.

Para 5.2.6:- The electric supply to the pumping set(s) shall be entirely independent of
all other equipment in the premises that is even when the power
throughout the entire premises is switched off, the supply to the pump
shall continue to be available un-interrupted. This can be achieved by
taking the connection for the pump(s) from the incoming side of the main
L. T. breaker. However, in cases where two or more transformers and/or
sources of supply are connected to a common bus bar the connection
may be taken through the bus bars.

Para 4.19.5:- Fire Escape/Fire Access Staircases: All staircases (protected Escape
Routes) shall be pressurized as per 4.4.2.5 of NBC of India 2016. Adequate
Smoke Venting facilities shall be provided for safe use.

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