WWRE Fire Protection Design Standards - Rev 9

AMAZON WORLDWIDE
FIRE PROTECTION STANDARD
Amazon Fulfillment Services, Inc.

Revision 9

Prepared For Prepared / Reviewed by:

Amazon Fulfillment Services, Inc. Harrington Group, Inc.
Seattle, WA Fire Protection Engineers & Consultants
Duluth, GA
AMAZON FULFILLMENT CENTERS AMAZON
FULFILLMENT SERVICES, INC.
WORLDWIDE FIRE PROTECTION GUIDELINES

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 ‐ INTRODUCTION 3
Section 2 ‐ UTILITY SERVICES 13
Section 3 ‐ FIRE SEPARATION 16
Section 4 ‐ EMERGENCY EGRESS AND ACCESS SYSTEMS 17
Section 5 ‐ FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT 20
Section 6 ‐ STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS 50
Section 7 ‐ SPECIAL HAZARDS 58
Section 8 ‐ INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTION
EQUIPMENT 76
Section 9 ‐ OTHER MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS 86
Section 10 ‐ TRAINING 91
APPENDIX A – Early Suppression‐Fast Response “ESFR” Sprinkler Obstruction
Guidelines 92
APPENDIX B – Fire Protection Equipment Sequence of Operations 93
APPENDIX C – Contractor Submittal Checklist 96
APPENDIX D – Testing and Maintenance Frequency Table 98
APPENDIX E – Fire Watch Duration Flow Chart 108
APPENDIX F ‐ Risk Guide ‐ Hydrogen Fuel Cells 109
CHANGE LOGS 115

WW FP Rev. 9 page 2
Section 1 ‐ INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE AND INTENT
This standard is intended to provide the basis for fire protection criteria for any new, existing, or remodeled
fulfillment center(s) (“FC”), including Sortable, Non‐Sort, Traditional Pick and AR supported operations, Special
Handing, IXD / Cross Dock, Sort Centers, Fresh and Pantry operations throughout the world. This standard is
meant as a supplement to local codes and standards.
However, this standard was developed based on the current understanding of fire hazards and state‐of‐the art
fire protection schemes. Where a local code or standard requires less than the minimum protection required by
this standard or when deviations from this standard are proposed, it must be brought to the attention of the
Senior Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, and Engineering & Construction.
Deviations to this Standard must be approved by the Operations Regional Senior Leadership, Regional Real
Estate and Construction Management, WW Real Estate Design and Engineering and Asset Risk Management.
It is the intent that this standard will be used by experienced, licensed/certified fire (protection) engineering
professionals in order to develop design criteria that will ensure optimum, yet economical, fire protection
solutions for Amazon’s business operations. The developer, lead architect, or contractor on each new
construction or renovation project for Amazon is expected to hire the fire protection engineering consultant
(“FPE”), if one is not already engaged directly by Amazon. The FPE is expected to review these guidelines and
standards (“requirements”) as they relate to the specific project (i.e., facility type and associated hazards),
conduct the necessary due diligence to fully understand all hazards, act as the Design Engineer of Record, lead
and coordinate due diligence and AHJ negotiation efforts related to alternates and/or performance‐based
design approvals needed, and provide construction administration services as described herein.

Fire engineering professionals working on projects for Amazon are encouraged to apply critical thinking
skills, think outside the box, and not simply apply whatever guidelines and standards may exist in the
jurisdiction of interest.

To be clear, Amazon’s top priority above all others is to ensure its Associates are safe from the potential
threat of a fire within the facility.
However, it must be recognized that while the FCs do contain large quantities of combustible materials – like
any warehouse/distribution facility – the life safety hazards are very different from other types of facilities (e.g.,
retail, hotels, high‐rise buildings, and assembly occupancies). The relative occupant densities in an FC are low
compared to many other types of facilities. The exiting/egress facilities are generally abundant (or should be),
and the wide‐open nature of the buildings or storage compartments ensures that occupants are aware of
hazards around them.
This standard may also be used as the basis for evaluating existing FCs but shall not be considered a compliance
standard in determining whether an FC is adequately protected. Fire protection assessments of existing facilities
shall be performed by a knowledgeable FPE professional capable of applying judgment, not simply evaluating
compliance with published standards (including this one), which may or may not be appropriate for the hazard
being evaluated.

WW FP Rev. 9 page 3
1.2 REFERENCES
The most current editions of the following codes, standards and company standards are referenced throughout
this document.
International Building Code
International Fire Code
NFPA 1, Fire Code
NFPA 2, Hydrogen Technologies Code
NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code
NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems
NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems
NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Fire Pumps for Fire Protection
NFPA 22, Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection
NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances
NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water‐Based Fire Protection Systems
NFPA 291, Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants
NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
NFPA 30B, Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products
NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 75, Standard for the Fire Protection of Information Technology
NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
FM Datasheet 1‐2 Earthquakes
FM Data Sheet 2‐0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers
FM Data Sheet 2‐8, Earthquake Protection for Water‐Based Fire Protection Systems
FM Data Sheet 3‐7, Fire Protection Pumps
FM Data Sheet 7‐29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers
FM Data Sheet 7‐31, Storage of Aerosol Products
FM Datasheet 7‐39, Lift Trucks
FM Datasheet 7‐91, Hydrogen
FM Data Sheet 8‐18, Storage of Hanging Garments Equipment
FM Data Sheet 8‐29, Refrigerated Storage

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FM Data Sheet 8‐9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities
North America Static Racking Storage Standards
North America Static Boltless Shelving Standard
Amazon Risk Guide ‐ HazMat Product Classification and MAQs
Amazon Risk Guide ‐ HazMat Storage and Segregation
1.3 COMMONLY USED TERMS (DEFINITIONS)
A. AHJ – Authority Having Jurisdiction – A government organization, entity, office, or individual responsible for
enforcing the requirements of a code, standard, or mandate or for approving equipment, materials, and
installation, or a procedure.
B. Jurisdiction – An area, city, town, county, state, province, district, prefecture, etc., wherein design and
construction activities are under the control of an AHJ.
C. Contractor – The term contractor as used in this standard refers to the specific entity performing the
installation of a fire protection system. For example, in North America, a fire alarm system’s wiring and
devices would typically be installed by an electrical contractor or fire alarm subcontractor. Either entity
would be considered the ‘Contractor’ in this standard where referenced in relation to a fire alarm system.
D. Fire (Protection) Engineer – An individual meeting one of the following conditions:
1. A fire engineering professional holding a license or certification in the region of interest. In the US, a
registered professional engineer (P.E.) who has passed the fire protection engineering written
examination administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveys (NCEES).
2. A registered P.E. in a related engineering discipline with a minimum of 5 years’ experience, dedicated to
fire protection engineering that can be verified with documentation.
1.4 HAZARDS
A. Commodity Classification
Commodity classification is defined differently within various fire codes, all typically based upon heat
content (Btu/lb.) with higher commodity classes representing a higher fire risk. The fire risk of a commodity
varies based on its heat content, geometric configuration, and how it is stored. Definitions provided below
are based on US fire codes and should be considered as a baseline when evaluating the relative fire risk of
the same products under different fire codes.
The term Heat of Combustion is used to define the maximum amount of energy released per unit weight of
material burned. The overall hazard of a commodity is a function of its heat release rate measured in
(Btu/min or kW), or its heat of combustion (Btu/lb. or kJ/kg) or burning rate (lb./min or kg/s).
Commodity Classes I thru IV have a heat of combustion that generally range between 6,000 and 8,000
Btu/lb. (13,960 and 18,600 kJ/kg). Plastic products have higher heat of combustion releases ranging
between 12,000 and 20,000 Btu/lb. (27,910 and 46,520 kJ/kg).
The typical commodity classification for our Pick Module Storage Areas (Pick Towers) and Robotic Storage
Platforms (RSP) is considered Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (UUP). Commodity classification for
typical pallet racking is considered Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (CUP).
When plastic totes, foam mattresses, and foam cushions are stored within the racks, these commodities are
classified as Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned
Expanded Plastics (UEP) and require a greater fire protection design.

WW FP Rev. 9 page 5
Examples of different commodity classifications stored within Amazon;
1. Class I Commodity – Essentially noncombustible products in noncombustible containers, and where
applicable on noncombustible pallets (e.g., glass, ceramics in noncombustible containers).
2. Class II Commodity – Essentially Class I products on wood pallets or in wooden crates.
3. Class III Commodity – Essentially wood, paper and fiber products and Group C plastics (e.g., paper,
plywood).
4. Class IV Commodity – Essentially Class I, II, III containing significant Group A Plastics (e.g., clothing,
thread, yarn).
Note: The use of plastic pallets for storing Class I through IV commodities within any storage rack
configuration, will raise the commodity classification by one commodity class (e.g. A Class IV
Commodity within a corrugated box on a plastic pallet would be treated as a Cartoned Unexpanded
Group A Plastic commodity (CUP).
5. Cartoned Unexpanded Plastics (CUP) – Corrugated cardboard or paperboard fully enclosing an
Unexpanded Group A Plastic. It is understood that higher hazard commodities, such as expanded
plastics, may exist, but these commodities should not represent a significant percentage of the overall
commodity mix.
6. Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP) – Corrugated cardboard or paperboard fully enclosing an Expanded
Group A Plastic commodity.
7. Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) – Unexpanded Group A Plastics that are exposed, without
corrugate or paperboard surrounding (e.g., plastic totes, rubber and plastic toys not in boxes, etc.).
Plastic totes used for transshipping between FCs.
8. Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) ‐ foam mattresses, foam cushions, fireplace logs impregnated with
wax or paraffin, plastic wrap or shrink wrapped films. Wax covered wood chips regardless of storage
container (e.g., plastic bags or corrugated boxes).
9. Garments On Hangers (GOH) – GOH includes fabric commodities with or without plastic coverings
arranged vertically along metal poles and sectioned by cardboard or plastic sheets. Storage is typically
limited to 8 ft. (2.4 m). Hanging garments are generally stored within the Pick Mods (Pick Towers) or
under mezzanines.
10. Mattresses and other foam based products – The storage of foam‐based products such as mattresses,
sofas, and other foam‐containing furniture, typical in a Special Handling FC. The storage analysis is
based on foam mattresses and mattress toppers.
The majority of mattresses that Amazon sells are foam‐based mattresses and fall within the “expanded
plastics” category of commodity classification within NFPA 13 – effectively the fire sprinkler standard
that is referenced by the International Fire Code (IFC) throughout most of the US (Ref. NFPA 13 (2016)
5.6.4.1.1.1). Allowable storage height of expanded plastics varies by whether it is stored on the floor or
within a rack, the type of rack and flue space arrangement, and based on the ceiling height (height from
floor to underside of roof deck).
Expanded plastic materials burn with higher intensity than traditional plastic products. Amazon’s FCs
are typically installed with fire sprinkler systems that are compliant for storage of ‘Unexpanded
Plastics’, but they are not typically adequate for storage of ‘Expanded Plastics’, and additional fire
protection and storage requirements may be needed. This would include in‐rack sprinkler protection,
solid barriers, or both. In some cases, vertical barriers are also required.
See Section 5.1.F for fire protection requirements.

WW FP Rev. 9 page 6
11. Idle Pallets – Wood, paper, or plastic pallets stacked in bulk or stored in racks in general storage areas
or outside in piles.
12. Rubber Tire Storage – Rubber tires stacked in piles or stored in general storage.
13. Plastic Totes – Totes or plastic containers used in the order fulfillment processes. The plastic totes are
treated as a UUP commodity (refer to item 7, above).
14. High‐Hazard Commodities (Hazmat Products)
a. Definition – High‐hazard commodities are consumer goods that are defined as hazardous materials
according to local codes and standards. Local requirements notwithstanding, hazardous materials
are those materials that would be classified as one of the following categories according to the
definitions provided in the most recent published edition of the International Fire Code (“IFC”)
published by the International Code Council. Definitions for types of hazmat products may very
within country of origin:
(1) Aerosols (5) Toxics
(2) Flammable liquids (6) Oxidizers
(3) Combustible liquids (7) Flammable solids
(4) Corrosives (8) Compressed gases
b. Significant quantities (e.g., amounts above IFC designated maximum allowable quantities) of high‐
hazard commodities are to be stored in designated storage areas to be designed and protected in
accordance with local mandates and Section 7.1.
c. Aerosols defined as either Level 2 or 3 by NFPA 30B in quantities exceeding 1,000 lbs. (454 kg)
(accumulatively) shall be stored in a specially protected segregated storage area(s) designed and
protected in accordance with local mandates and Section 7.2.
d. It is incumbent on the fire protection design professional to ask if the facility in question will handle
and store significant quantities of high hazard commodities and design a hazmat storage area that
complies with this standard, as well as local regulations.
Refer to Section 7 for details on Hazmat storage and design requirements, including various storage
options for low, medium, and high volumes of hazardous materials.
B. Typical Storage Arrangements
Refer to the current WW Racking Standards for typical racking details and additional storage configurations
not defined below.
1. High‐Piled/High‐Rack Storage Areas – The commodities generally anticipated to be stored in the high‐
piled/high‐rack storage areas will generally consist of Class I through Class IV commodities and
Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (CUP).
Our typical storage racking arrangement includes Single‐Row Racks (SRR), Double‐Row Racks (DRR) and
some Multi‐Row Racks (MRR). SRR and DRR racks are also referred to as Reserve Racking, Wide Aisle
Racking and Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Racking.
To achieve the maximum utilization of our storage racking, 3 inch (75 mm) transverse flues are
preferred within our racking storage schemes. The sprinkler design should allow for 3 inch (75 mm) flue
spaces, and an alternate means and method following this standard presented if the local code does
not allow 3 inch (75 mm) flues.
WW FP Rev. 9 page 7
It is understood that higher hazard commodities, such as expanded plastics, may exist, but these
commodities should not represent a significant percentage of the overall commodity mix. See Section 5
for fire protection design requirements.
High‐Piled Rack storage is typically greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m) high, but often up to 30‐45 ft. (9.1 m –
13.7 m). This is dependent on the peak roof height of the building.
Note: Some AHJs view storage above 6 ft. (1.8 m) as high pile storage. Defer to the local AHJs for storage
permit requirements.
a. Single‐Row Racks (SRR) have no longitudinal flue spaces, are up to 6 ft. (1.8 m) deep and have aisles
over 4 ft. (1.2 m) wide. Aisle widths of 4 ft. (1.2 m) or wider are needed for the Amazon PIT
equipment.
The SRR load beams for the international locations can be up to 12 ft. (3.6 m) wide.
b. Double‐Row Racks (DRR) are two single‐row racks placed back‐to‐back separated by a longitudinal
flue space, with aisles over 4 ft. (1.2 m) wide. Typically, aisle widths of 4 ft. (1.2 m) or greater are
needed for the Amazon PIT equipment.
The DRR load beams for the international locations can be up to 12 ft. (3.6 m) wide.
c. Multiple‐Row Racks (MRR) are racks greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m) wide, or single‐row or double‐row
racks separated by aisles 4 ft. (1.2 m) wide or less having an overall width, including flues, greater
than 12 ft. (3.6 m). Multiple‐row racks can be drive‐in, drive‐through, flow‐through, push‐back or
double‐deep standard racks. Overall rack depth must be evaluated. . Aisle widths of 4 ft. (1.2 m)
or wider are needed for the Amazon PIT equipment.
2. High‐Density Storage Racks – This includes rainbow racking, high‐density shoe racking, other storage
arrangement within racks where product is stored directly on the shelf, rather than on a pallet. Some
racking may include a combination of traditional pallet storage, with high‐density storage (or rainbow
racks) on lower levels.
It is essential that we provide adequately sized and spaced transverse flue spaces in our racking areas
and where applicable longitudinal flue spaces within the rainbow racking and shoe storage racking. The
nature of the densely packed storage stowed on wire shelves in a rack rather than on pallet will require
a physical barrier to maintain such “flue” spaces. The physical barrier could be metal, cardboard or
plastic material (in the order of least risk to greatest) that will prevent storage of product or
combustibles in the space. The preferred approach is to use wire mesh dividers as flue space dividers,
as noted in the figure below.

Section 1.4, Figure 1: High Density Storage Racks (aka Rainbow Racking)
WW FP Rev. 9 page 8
The flue spaces must extend through the vertical height of the racks and should be vertically aligned.
Both of the following conditions must be met. If not, in‐rack sprinklers will be required per NFPA 13
(2013) Section 17.1.5.1.
Adequate flue spacing as further described in Risk Guideline “Flue Space Solutions for Rainbow Racking
& Shoe Storage Racking”. The solid area created by the commodity itself shall not exceed 20 sq. (1.9 sq.
m.), and there shall be no solid shelves within the rack arrangement.
Additional options are available that fall within the ranges detailed for Options 1 and 2 of the Amazon
Risk Guide, including options with 4 inch (100 mm) flue spaces, and other solutions as the width and
depth of the rack bays vary.
3. See North America and EU Static Racking Storage Standards for various pallets storage options. Contact
Risk Management for review and guidance if a prescribed solution is not available.
4. Flow or Pass Thru Racking (Push Thru Racking) ‐ Flow‐thru racking system is mainly used for storing
large quantities of the same type of palletized goods. The pallets are placed in storage on one side of
the flue, they automatically roll on sloping wheel conveyors towards the order picking side and can be
retrieved, as required, from there.
5. “A Level” Pass Thru for Carpet Rolls, Tubing or Other Long Products
Examples include storage of carpet rolls, tubing, or other similar products that have a deep span that
would extend over the longitudinal flue space in a double‐row rack. The following flue space design
should be followed:
a. Provide 4 inches (100 mm) minimum transverse flue spaces at each rack upright through physical
means to prevent obstruction of the flue space. Transverse flue spaces should be spaced no
farther apart than 12 ft. (3.6 m). The maximum height of A Level shall not exceed 8 ft. (96 inches
[2.4 m]).
b. Provide an 8 ft. (2.4 m.) clear space (no storage), every 100 ft. (30 m) along the length of each
rack. Rack storage may be placed above the 8 ft. (2.4 m.) clear space. Provide physical means,
signage, and/or other management program of keeping this space clear.

WW FP Rev. 9 page 9
Section 1.4, Figure 2: A Level Pass thru for Carpet Rolls, Tubing or other Long Products

6. French Racking – French racking is low‐level double‐row racking (DRR or back‐to‐back racking) with
storage to 6.5 ft. (2.0 m). The shelving could have a mixture of open and/or solid shelves. The French
Racking is typically used in the NA, EU and UK operations.

French Racking
7. Library shelving (e.g. shelf storage) – Storage on a structure typically less than 10 ft. (3 m) high, but no
greater than 15 ft. (4.6 m) for back‐to‐back structures. Shelves are typically 30 inch (760 mm) deep or
less. Shelf storage is often located within Pick Mods. Actual storage of products is typically limited to 8
ft. (2.4 m) within the library shelves. Shelf structures may have solid vertical backing material. The
need for the solid material based on the dimensions of the shelf and the design of the protection
system. The design needs to be review by the fire protection engineer of record. If vertical backing
material is necessary for fire risk mitigation, it shall be constructed of metal.
WW FP Rev. 9 page 10
commodities should not represent a significant percentage of the overall commodity mix. The typical
commodity classification is Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (CUP). See Section 5 for fire
protection design requirements.
8. Pick Mods Storage Areas (Pick Towers) – In a facility utilizing pick mods (pick towers), commodities will
generally be stored in a library shelf arrangement with the horizontal shelves constructed of metal and
vertical bin dividers constructed of metal, plastic and cardboard, and/or nylon mesh netting. The
storage height in the pick mods is typically limited to approximately 8 ft. (2.4 m) due to the construction
of the pick mods itself. Transverse flues are not required within the pick mods storage areas.
To allow for the change in products offered, the typical commodity classification is considered to be
Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (UUP). See Section 5 for fire protection design
requirements.
9. Amazon Robotics Storage Platforms (“RSPs”) – The RSPs are utilized to accommodate storage ‘pods’
that are shelving units that are stored in a high density arrangement on the floor. The pods are
constructed of metal supports with either metal shelves or all fabric bins shelving units that are stored
in a high density arrangement on the RSPs. The pods are retrieved by low profile battery powered
robots that take the entire shelving unit to stationary human ‘pickers’ located along the perimeter of
each RSP platform.
commodities should not represent a significant percentage of the overall commodity mix. Commodities
stored within RSPs can be a mixture of Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (70% CUP) and
Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (30% UUP).
To allow for the change in products offered, the typical commodity classification is considered to be
Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (UUP). See Section 5 for fire protection design
requirements.
The AR Pods come in three (3) variations, corrugate, fabric, and pallet. The corrugated pods are used in
most Pantry FCs.

Pantry Corrugate Pods
Corrugate Pods ‐ The corrugated pods are typically 8.33 ft. (2.54 m) tall, and are 48 inches (1.2 m) by 48
inches (1.2 m) square.

Typical Fabric Pods
Fabric Pods ‐ The fabric and pallet pods are used in most AR Sort and AR Non‐Sort FCs. There are
several variations of the fabric pods used in the RSPs. RSPs built prior to 2017 use fabric ‘R and S’ style
pods that are 8 ft. tall (2.4 m), and are 48 inches (1.2 m) by 48 inches (1.2 m) square.
The RSPs built after 2016 utilize fabric ‘H’ series pods that are 8.41 ft. tall [8 ft. 5 inches (2.56 m)], and
are 37 inches (0.93 m) by 37 inches (0.93 m) square.

Pallet Pods
Pallet Pods ‐ The pallet pods are under 5 ft. tall (1.5 m) x 48 inches (1.2 m) by 48 inches (1.2 m) square
and are used as a portable pallet. They are constructed of metal frame with a layer of plywood for the
shelf.

1.5 MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION
Refer to the Worldwide Real Estate Design Standard (Architectural) for specific examples and Regional
Exceptions for materials and methods of construction. A copy of this Standard is available from the local Senior
Real Estate Manager, or request a copy from the Senior Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, Engineering &
Construction.
A. Walls
1. Interior and exterior walls shall be constructed entirely of noncombustible materials.
2. Exterior walls shall be either concrete or, where insulated metal panels are used, a noncombustible or
limited‐combustible insulation material such as mineral wool shall be chosen.
If an insulated metal sandwich panel is used with combustible insulation material, it must be a FM
Approved wall assembly and approved for the proposed installation method. Some insulated metal
wall panels have height restrictions.
3. Interior walls shall be constructed of drywall sheathing on either wood or metal studs, or other
noncombustible fire‐rated material.
B. Roof Assemblies
1. Decking – Roof decking shall be metal or wood depending on local conditions and applicable
regulations. Wooden roof decking shall not be used in unsprinklered buildings. Other noncombustible
decking materials can be used.
2. Insulation – Roofing insulation may consist of either built up polyisocyanurate foam board or
noncombustible materials such as mineral wool (i.e. rock wool).
Spray applied foam plastic insulation products shall be avoided. If used, the insulation must be
covered with a fire retardant material. The fire retardant material must be listed and approved for use
with the insulation.
3. Membrane/ Cover – Roof membrane shall consist of adhered rubberized material such as EPDM or
TPO, ballast (stone), asphaltic shingles, or ceramic tiles. Torch applied roofing systems shall not be
used. A metal roof cover, such as a lap seam or standing seam roof, is also acceptable.
C. Structure
1. Columns, beams, trusses, and other structural members whose primary function is to support the roof,
floors, and walls of the building shall be constructed of either concrete or steel.

Section 2 ‐ UTILITY SERVICES
2.1 WATER SUPPLY
It is the intent that during site selection, a detailed water supply analysis will be conducted to evaluate the
aspects of water supply referenced in this section. The water supply analysis shall be conducted by a competent
fire engineering professional and shall take into account all of the following factors:
A. Adequacy – The adequacy of the public water supply shall be determined by performing flow tests and
analyzing the results. Guidelines for properly performing flow tests can be found in NFPA 291. One
objective of the flow test shall be to flow at least as much water as the anticipated sprinkler demand.
Where a flow test cannot be conducted or is not allowed, the results of hydraulic modeling may be used to
determine the adequacy of the water supply.
Guidelines for how to interpret the results of water flow tests can be found in the Fire Protection Handbook
published by NFPA. The analysis of the water supply’s adequacy shall take into account maximum daily
demands and peak hourly demands. If the analysis concludes that the public water system is not adequate
to supply the most demanding fire protection systems, an on‐site storage tank shall be installed following
NFPA 22 and local guidelines.
B. Capacity and Duration – If an on‐site water storage tank is necessary as determined by Part A, Adequacy,
the tank shall be sized according to NFPA 13; capable of providing the required flow and pressure for the
highest demand remote design area determined using the requirements and procedures as specified in
NFPA 13, including hose stream allowance for the required duration.
A permanent pipe connected to the water supply shall be provided to refill the tank, sized to fill the tank in a
maximum of 8 hours per NFPA 22 Section 14.4 (2008 Edition). If the tank cannot be refilled within 8 hours
due to limitations of the available water supply, then a secondary tank may be required.
C. Reliability of the Water Supply
1. Source condition
2. Static pressure fluctuations
3. Dead‐end or looped/gridded supply
4. Number of sources to site area
5. Interdependence with adjacent water works or utility districts
6. Redundancies in pumping units and storage facilities (tanks)
7. Condition and age of equipment
8. Data related to failure rates in the area
9. Type of soil in the area, including liquefaction potential in seismic zones
10. Drought conditions (frequency, duration)
11. Earthquakes, floods, forest fires, etc.
12. Ice formation
13. Nearby large industrial users
14. Future expansion
D. Special Limitations
1. Is pump suction permitted to be connected to the utility supply main? If not, a break tank or ground
storage tank shall be provided.
2. Are there special limitations that require prevention of low pump suction pressure? If so, determine if
control can be accomplished electronically or if a pressure sustaining valve will be needed.
3. Backflow Prevention – Backflow preventers are commonly required when fire protection (and
domestic) systems are connected to municipal water supply systems. The type of backflow preventer
and location required shall be requested from the local water authority.
a. Type (RPZ, DCDA, DCA)
b. Location (vault, hot box, inside building)
4. Meter
a. Type (example ‐ combination or turbo)
b. Location (vault, hot box, inside building)
E. Fire/Booster Pump – Most sprinklered FC’s will require a fire pump due to the pressure demands
associated with modern storage sprinklers. Fire pumps shall be selected that are UL listed and/or FM
Approved (WW usage) and/or VdS Approved (alternate EU usage). The type of fire pump (i.e., electric
motor driven or diesel‐engine driven) selected depends on the reliability of the local electric utility, the
need to limit discharge pressures, and local requirements. Diesel fire pumps are preferred.
Where a fire pump or booster pump is required to adequately supply facility fire protection systems, the
following shall be applicable:
1. Pressure Control – There is often a need to limit fire pump discharge pressures due to the fact that
many fire sprinkler system components are only rated for 175 psi (12 bar). The following are possible
engineered solutions for limiting fire pump discharge pressures:
a. Pressure relief valve assemblies – The use of a pressure relief valve assembly to limit fire pump
discharge pressures is explicitly prohibited by NFPA 20 and shall not be used.
b. Pressure reducing valve assemblies – Where used, a pressure reducing valve assembly shall include
both a low‐flow and high‐flow pressure reducing valve. The assembly shall be located downstream
of the fire pump discharge control valve in a parallel arrangement.
c. Pressure limiting drive controllers – A UL listed and/or FM Approved pressure limiting drive (PLD)
controller are a cost effective solution for limiting diesel‐engine driven fire pump discharge
pressures. This is the preferred method of pressure control where it is needed.
d. Variable frequency drive controllers – A UL listed and/or FM Approved variable frequency drive
(VFD) controller is an option to limit discharge pressures of an electric motor driven fire pump.
However, VFD controllers are currently very expensive compared to the PLD – diesel engine driven
fire pump option.
The details, results, and conclusions from the water supply analysis shall be thoroughly
documented. Where practical, secondary connections to well‐gridded public water systems shall
be made. However, fire protection systems that can be adequately supplied by well‐gridded public
water systems generally do not require a separate on‐site storage tank.
e. Fire Pump Run Timers ‐ Run timers shall not be installed.
2.2 ELECTRICAL POWER
The reliability of the local electric utility shall be evaluated to determine the need to provide additional back‐up
power to electric motor‐driven fire pumps and mechanical smoke exhaust systems, if provided. This evaluation
shall consider the following factors:
A. Seismic activity in the area
B. Number of power plants feeding the grid
C. Number of sub‐stations that serve the site
D. Number of circuits that serve the site
E. Frequency/duration of outages
F. Overhead or underground supply conductors outside the site premises
The reliability of normal electrical power to fire pump and mechanical smoke exhaust systems is ultimately
left to the discretion of the AHJ – normally the fire marshal. Electrical power arrangements to fire pumps
have unique requirements which will require additional planning for the site electrical distribution system.
For additional guidance refer to NFPA 20.
For locations in seismically active regions (e.g. US West Coast, Japan, certain regions of India and China), a
redundant fire pump configuration should be provided through one of the following methods:
1. Provide two redundant fire pumps, one electrically‐driven and the other diesel‐driven.
OR
2. Provide a dedicated emergency generator or size the site emergency generator to handle the load of
the single electric fire pump.
OR
3. Provide a dedicated redundant transformer for a single electric fire pump.
2.3 UTILITIES FEED BY NATURAL GAS SYSTEM IN AREAS SUBJECT TO EARTHQUAKES
Refer to Section 1.08 Gas Systems of the Worldwide Real Estate Design Standards – Plumbing System Design
Criteria for provisions to minimize the chance of a gas‐fueled fire following an earthquake.
Additionally, equipment that is fueled or fed by a flammable gas (e.g. natural gas, propane, etc.) or a
flammable/combustible liquid (e.g. diesel fuel, etc.) should be properly secured to minimize sway and chance for
breakage at the pipe connection. Examples might include sway bracing, anchorage, strapping, etc. depending on
the equipment.

Section 3 ‐ FIRE SEPARATION
3.1 STORAGE AREA FIRE COMPARTMENTS
Typically, storage and processing areas are not be subdivided into fire compartments. Fire compartments create
significant obstructions to material handling equipment and severely limit the flexibility of facility layout. When
fire compartments are required by local regulations or as required for hazardous materials storage rooms (See
Part 7, Section 7.1.E), the Senior Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, Engineering & Construction, and
Amazon’s Asset Risk Manager must be notified for a detailed review of the project and coordination with the
local AHJ. Changes must be approved by both.
A performance‐based design approach including fire/smoke modeling and egress analysis shall be provided for
review as part of each project. 1
3.2 FIRE PUMP ROOM(s)
Interior fire pump rooms shall be separated from the rest of the facility by one‐hour (1‐hr.) fire resistance‐rated
construction.
3.3 EXIT STAIR TOWERS
Exit stair towers shall be separated from the rest of the facility using a minimum one hour (1‐hr.) fire‐resistance‐
rated construction.
3.4 ELEVATOR SHAFTS AND ELEVATOR MACHINE ROOM(s)
Elevator shafts and elevator machine rooms shall be separated from the rest of the facility with minimum one‐
hour (1‐hr.) fire‐resistance‐rated construction.

1 A performance‐based design approach shall only be conducted in jurisdictions where a performance‐based approach is
acceptable to the AHJ.
3.5 VERTICAL RECIPROCATING CONVEYORS (VRCs)
Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs) are vertical lifts used to move materials within the FC from one level to
another. Typically, fire resistance construction is not required. However, a detailed review of the project and
coordination with the local AHJ is required.

Section 4 ‐ EMERGENCY EGRESS AND ACCESS SYSTEMS
Associate safety and the ability of associates to safely exit the building must take priority over all other needs.
Emergency exiting facilities shall be designed according to local requirements, but in no case shall be less than
the egress requirements of the IBC/IFC.
4.1 TRAVEL DISTANCE
The distance that an occupant must travel to reach an exit shall not exceed 400 ft. (120 m) unless a
performance‐based design analysis has been performed to demonstrate that longer travel distances can be
supported.
4.2 AMAZON ROBOTICS STORAGE PLATFORM EXITING (RSP)
The Amazon Robotic Storage Platforms (RSPs) are designed and constructed to support Amazon Robotics (AR).
The RSPs consists of a large grid of freestanding inventory shelves (called pods) which can be lifted and moved
around within a fenced‐off area by a fleet of autonomous mobile‐robotic drive units. The active field is a
nonhuman zone. In a non‐emergency, only specially trained personnel are allowed to enter an active fields by
prohibiting sections of the floor from drive unit travel.
However, in the event of a fire, emergency personnel may need to enter the Active AR floor to respond to the
emergency. With the AR System/Fire Safety System integration, the AR system can clear ingress pathways and
disable itself upon activation of a fire alarm.
Upon activation of a fire alarm, the following actions occur:
A. All AR stations are forced to log themselves out after a configured amount of time so that the drive units
and pods are free to return to storage. The default amount of time is 5 minutes (300 seconds).
B. Any drive units carrying pods will return to storage and any drive units not occupying a storage cell will be
commanded to hide under a pod in a storage cell.
C. The Drive Unit Charging Stations will be disabled.
D. The AR System will disable its fleet of drive units after 5 minutes (which is a configurable amount of time
with a maximum value of 30 minutes and a default value of 5 minutes). Within 18 seconds of that trigger,
all drive units will be immobilized with high power being cut from their motors.
E. Light towers at each entrance to the floor will flash yellow and red indicating the floor is now “disabled” and
safe to access.
Upon completion of steps A thru E above, the Active AR floor has now disabled itself leaving ingress pathways
passable for emergency personnel. The Active AR floor remains verifiably safe‐stopped until the floor supervisor
physically resets the fire alarm and all triggered safety system components.
Note: If someone disconnects the fire alarm wiring harness or the wire is cut between the AR System and
the fire alarm, the system will behave as if the fire alarm system has activated, i.e. fail‐safe.

4.3 EMERGENCY LIGHTING AND EXIT SIGNS/LIGHTS
A. Emergency lighting shall be provided for exit access areas which include designated stairs, corridors, ramps,
and passageways leading to an exit. Emergency lighting shall also be provided in the fire pump room/house
and in the fire alarm control room, where such rooms exist.
B. Emergency and exit lighting shall be on emergency generator or back‐up power system, which shall be
arranged to energize the emergency lighting system within 10 seconds of loss of primary power and provide
emergency power for not less than 1.5 hours.
C. Emergency lighting levels shall be not less than an average of 1 ft.‐candle (10.8 lux) and, at any one point,
not less than 0.1 ft.‐candle (1.1 lux).
D. Emergency and exit lighting shall be wired independent of any modular wiring system (as applicable).
E. Exit lights/signs shall be polycarbonate LED type.
F. Exit lights/signs shall be provided at all exits and along horizontal components of egress paths where the
continuation of the path is not obvious. For example, in a rack or shelf storage array, it is not necessary to
provide an exit light/sign at the end of every row or aisle. Exit lights/signs shall be provided along the main
aisles only since occupants will naturally migrate to these areas in the event of any emergency.
4.4 DOORS AND DOOR HARDWARE
A. All warehouse exterior doors shall have a panic bar‐type exit hardware. Where permitted by the AHJ, doors
shall omit outside lever hardware and cylinder. If authorities require exterior access, provide keyed cylinder
and pull trim.
B. Storefront Doors (Main Entrances only) shall be equipped with a button‐type device which controls power
to the door locks and will be power‐failure secure for ingress only. The doors shall be equipped with panic
hardware which will permit egress from the FC under all conditions. The door control will have two states:
1. An un‐interrupted (normal) state where the lockdown button is not depressed and the locks are
powered up/doors functioning properly with no impact to ingress or egress.
2. An interrupted (activated) state when the button is pressed and power is dropped to the locks. When
the button is pressed, it will interrupt the power to the locks and the main entrance doors will lock
down preventing any entry into the FC. Egress will be permitted by panic hardware installed on the
doors.
C. Access controlled devices, except those covered by item B, where necessary for security reasons shall be
arranged according to the following:
1. A sensor shall be provided on the egress side arranged to detect an occupant approaching the doors.
The doors shall be arranged to unlock by a signal from or loss of power to the sensor.
2. Loss of power to that part of the access control system which locks the door shall automatically unlock
the door.
3. A manual device shall be provided within 5 ft. (1.5 m) of the secured door. The device shall be clearly
labeled “PUSH TO EXIT” and operation of the device shall directly interrupt power to the lock –
independent of the access control system electronics – and the door must remain unlocked for 30
seconds after operation.
4. Activation of the sprinkler system, fire alarm system, or other fire detection systems shall automatically
unlock the doors until the fire alarm system has been reset.

D. Electromagnetically Locked Egress Doors
1. Must meet the following requirements:
2. The listed hardware that is affixed to the door leaf shall have an obvious method of operation that is
readily operated under all lighting conditions.
3. The listed hardware shall be capable of being operated with one hand.
4. Operation of the listed hardware directly shall interrupt the power to the electromagnetic lock and
unlock the door immediately.
5. Loss of power to the listed hardware shall automatically unlock the door.
6. Where panic or fire exit hardware is required, operation of the listed panic or exit hardware shall also
release the electromagnetically locked door.
E. Turnstiles
Separate exit doors should be provided adjacent to, and within 10 ft. (3.1 m), of every turnstile to provide a
separate means of egress to occupants. Turnstiles shall not be included as required ingress width or as an
exit component in the design of facilities; however, turnstiles shall be arranged to spin freely to allow
occupant egress in the event of an emergency, unless required otherwise by the AHJ. In addition, the fire
alarm system shall be interlocked with the turnstiles such that they ‘free spin’ in the event of any fire alarm
signal that is intended to evacuate the building. In the interest of Associate safety, it is imperative that
operational training for fire egress directs Associates to use exit signage to find the nearest exit door and
not simply egress through the main entrance(s).
For existing locations, the operation of the turnstiles may be different from site to site. Contact local EH&S
and Security to determine the site specific turnstiles operation.
For building egress that has been designed to this standard or where turnstiles free spin, provide signage on
the associate side of the turnstile directing them to egress doors and noting the operation of the turnstiles
in a fire alarm event; e.g., “Turnstiles Free Spin During a Building Evacuation Emergency”.
For building egress that has not been designed to this standard or where turnstiles do not free spin, signage
must be placed above the turnstiles to indicate “Do Not Use Turnstiles in an Emergency. Use Doors Marked
With Illuminated Exit Signs”.
F. Fire Doors
Where required – Fire doors are required where a door penetrates a wall with a required fire resistance
rating. The fire door rating is dependent upon the wall’s required rating and should correlate with Section
4.4, Table 1.

G. Fire Barriers
The local code shall be reviewed for determining the required fire barriers rating. The exception to local
code, is the construction of hazmat storage rooms. The fire barriers must meet the WW FP Standard at a
minimum, refer to Section 7 for construction details.
Fire Barrier Fire Resistance Rating Minimum Required Fire Door Rating
3 hours 3 hours
2 hours 1 ½ hours
1 hour ¾ hours
½ hours ⅓ hours
Section 4.4, Table 1: Fire Door Resistance Rating

Section 5 ‐ FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT
5.1 AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER PROTECTION
A. General Requirements – A brief summary of sprinkler requirements is also provided in Section 5.1, Table 1.
1. Provide sprinkler protection for all portions of the building (break rooms, offices, etc.).
2. The minimum safety margin shall be 10 psi (0.7 bar) or 10 percent of the design‐basis static pressure at
the effective point, whichever is smaller.
3. Risers shall be equipped with a control valve, riser check valve, gauges, main drain, flow switch, and
tamper switch.
4. All risers will be provided with placards that have been mechanically embossed with the design area,
number and K‐factor of sprinklers, discharge density over the design area, required flow and residual
pressure demand at the base of riser, occupancy or commodity classification, maximum storage height,
hose stream demand, and name of installing contractor.
5. At completion of installation, provide sturdy chains and locks that are keyed alike on all sprinkler
control valves, except for those in a dedicated fire pump room/house that has controlled‐access behind
a locked door. The locks should be sturdy (3/16 inches diameter shackle or larger), resistance to
breakage except by bolt cutters (frangible or break‐away locks are acceptable), and weather‐proof
where exposed to the elements. Do not use combination or multiple keyed locks.
6. A full site graphic map will be developed showing ceiling and/or mezzanine coverage for each dedicated
sprinkler riser. The graphic map shall be located at the FACP, at sprinkler riser rooms, or at each
sprinkler riser manifold so it is clearly visible from any sprinkler riser. The graphic map shall include
column line labeling to ensure that the area served by each system is easily identifiable.
7. All system components shall be UL listed and/or FM Approved, including sprinklers and fire pump
assemblies.
8. Sprinkler system shall include all locally required seismic bracing.
9. All sprinklers located within 8 ft. (2.4 m) of the floor, or otherwise subject to mechanical damage, shall
be protected with cages or other means acceptable to Amazon (Construction Management and/or Risk
Management).
10. When necessary, provide written approval from the structural engineer that running pipe though the
structural members is acceptable.
a. All holes in walls and floors shall be core drilled or have metallic pipe sleeves installed.
b. All penetrations in fire resistive rated assemblies shall be fire stopped by approved means and the
assembly shall be restored to its required fire resistance rating.
11. Sprinkler control valves not in a locked room shall be chained and locked in the open position.
12. All mechanical fittings shall be held in place with mechanical couplings of the same manufacturer.
13. Waterflow alarm devices shall be provided on all sprinkler systems for monitoring by the FACP.
14. Valve supervisory tamper devices shall be provided on all interior fire protection control valves for
monitoring by the FACP.
15. All main and auxiliary drains and inspector's test connections terminating on the shipping dock walls
shall be run down the shipping dock wall only at the personnel doors and not between shipping dock
doors.
16. Auxiliary area (i.e., satellite office areas and bathrooms) – sprinkler systems shall be fed from the
nearest ceiling system cross main. Each auxiliary area shall have a separate, listed, accessible,
supervised, and indicating control valve.
17. Vertical duct work supplying unit heaters shall be centered between ESFR sprinklers.
18. Coordinate the location of all high‐volume low‐speed (HVLS) ceiling fans such that the fan hub is
installed centered between four ESFR sprinklers, and that the top of the fan blades (airfoils) are a
minimum of 36 inches below the sprinkler deflector.
B. Warehouse Ceiling (Peak Roof Heights) –– Install suppression mode (i.e., Early Suppression‐Fast Response,
“ESFR”) sprinklers at ceiling level throughout the FC.
1. Automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the requirements of
NFPA 13. The hydraulic design of the ESFR sprinkler system can include two (2) additional sprinklers in
the system design area to account for sprinklers installed beneath conveyors or other non‐continuous
obstructions.
The minimum hydraulic design of the ESFR sprinkler system is 12 sprinklers.

Peak Roof Height Min. Number of
Area Nominal K‐factor Design Pressure Aisle Restrictions
Ft. (m) Design Sprinklers
X < 40 ft.
K16.8 (K240) 52 psi (3.6 bar) 12 ‐
(X < 12.2 m)
K22.4 (K320)
40 ft. < X < 45 ft. 50 psi (3.5 bar)
or 12 ‐
(12.2 m < X <13.7 m) See Note 3
K25.2 (K360)
8 ft. (for K22.4)
High‐Piled K22.4 (K320) or
and/or Solid or 5 ft. (for K25.2)
45 ft. < X < 48 ft.
Pile Storage K25.2 (K360) See Note 1 12 or
(13.7 m < X < 14.6 m)
of CUP or 6 ft. (for K28)
Commodities K28 (K404)
See Notes 1 and 2
48 ft. < X < 55 ft.
K28 (K404) See Note 1 See Note 1 See Notes 1 and 2
(14.6 m < X < 16.7 m)
K22.4 (K320)
Greater than 48 ft. In‐racks sprinklers
or See Note 1 12
(14.6 m.) will be required
K25.2 (K360)
Note 1: Consult manufacturer’s cut sheet for design information.
Note 2 a) Reliable Specific Application ESFR Pendent Sprinkler (SIN R771), Model HL22, K22.4 [K320 metric] has a minimum aisle
restriction of 8 ft. (2.4 m) for ceiling heights above 45 ft. (13.7 m). Minimum 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flues are required.
In‐rack sprinklers are needed to support the use of a 3 inch (75 mm) transverse flues.
b) Tyco ESFR‐25 (SIN TY9226), K25.0 [K360 metric] has a minimum aisle restriction of 5 ft. (1.5 m) based on ceiling heights
above 48 ft. (13.7 m). Minimum 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flues are required. In‐rack sprinklers are needed to support the
use of a 3 inch (75 mm) transverse flues.
c) Viking Specific Application ESFR Pendent Sprinkler (SIN VK514), K28.0 [K404 metric] has a minimum aisle restriction of 6 ft.
(1.8 m) for ceiling heights above 45 ft. (13.7 m). Minimum 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flues are required. In‐rack sprinklers
are needed to support the use of a 3 inch (75 mm) transverse flues. See manufacturers cut sheet for information related to
buildings taller than 48 ft.
Note 3: The operating pressure for K22.4 at 40 psi (K320 at 2.8 bars) or K25.2 at 40 psi (K360 at 2.8 bars) supports a 6 inch (150 mm)
transverse flue space in the storage racks (NFPA 13). When the operating pressure is increased to 50 psi, the transverse flues
can be decreased to 3 inch (75 mm) when the roof height is 45 ft. (13.7 m) or less. When the roof height is greater than 45
ft. (13.7 m), in‐racks will be required. In‐rack fire protection schemes can follow NFPA 13 or FM Global Data Sheet 8‐9.
Section 5.1, Table 1: Summary of Ceiling Sprinkler Protection by Area for Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (CUP).
2. For ceiling heights less than or equal to 40 ft. (12.2 m), sprinkler design shall be based on a minimum
twelve (12) sprinklers K17 (K240) sprinklers designed to discharge at 52 psi (3.6 bar).
Where ESFRs cannot be installed, a control‐mode (CM) design approach can be used under certain
circumstances, but will require the addition of in‐rack sprinklers in rack storage. In most cases, the cost
of CM sprinklers and in‐racks, will exceed the cost of ESFRs and supporting infrastructure (fire pumps
and storage tanks).
This is not a preferred approach due to the increased cost and operational constraints of in‐rack
sprinklers. Roof‐level sprinklers using a control mode design may be a reasonable approach for
buildings without rack storage and for lower roof heights below 40 ft. (12.2 m).
Refer to the country’s national fire code for design guidance. When the national fire code is lessor than
NFPA 13, follow NFPA 13 for recognized fire protection criteria.
See Section 5.2 for regional exceptions.
3. For ceiling heights greater than 40 ft. (12.2 m) up to 48 ft. (14.6 m), sprinkler design shall be based on a
minimum twelve (12) sprinklers K22 (K320) or K25 (K360) sprinklers designed to discharge at the listed
operating pressure for that ceiling height. Care must be taken when selecting a sprinkler manufacturer;
not all K22 (K320) / K25 (K360) / K28 (K404) sprinklers have been tested for heights up to 45 ft. (13.7 m)
or 48 ft. (14.6 m)
Note: Some ESFR sprinklers have aisle width restrictions. Verify the manufacturers’ requirements for
specific use. Use of 3 inch (75 mm) or 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flue must be reviewed with the
listing and/or approval of the sprinklers over the rack storage areas.
4. Sprinkler Obstructions – Follow FM Global Data Sheet 2‐0. Coordinate installation of sprinklers with
structural members, ductwork, lighting, electrical conduit, and other obstructions. The below notes
provide guidance for obstructions, a visual reference is provided in Appendix A.
a. Individual obstructions measuring 3/4 inches wide or less and at least 4 inches (100 mm) below the
sprinkler deflector, or located at least 12 inches (300 mm) horizontally from the centerline of the
sprinkler, may be ignored.
b. Continuous obstructions wider than 3/4 inches and no wider than 1‐1/4 inches shall be located at
least 12 inches (300 mm) horizontally from the centerline of the sprinkler or at least 16 inches (400
mm) vertically below the sprinkler deflector.
c. Continuous obstructions wider than 1‐1/4 inches and no wider than 2 inches shall be located at
least 12 inches (300 mm) horizontally from the centerline of the sprinkler or at least 24 inches (600
mm) vertically below the sprinkler deflector.
d. Continuous obstructions wider than 2 inches (50 mm) and no wider than 12 inches (300 mm) shall
be located at least 12 inches (300 mm) horizontally from the centerline of the sprinkler.
e. Continuous obstructions wider than 12 inches (300 mm) and no wider than 24 inches (600 mm)
shall be located at least 24 inches (600 mm) horizontally from the centerline of the sprinkler.
f. Isolated rectangular or round obstructions (such as light fixtures, junction boxes, etc.), in which all
dimensions parallel to the floor are no greater than 24 inches (600 mm), shall be located at least 12
inches (300 mm) from the centerline of the sprinkler.
g. Obstructions wider than 24 inches (600 mm) in length and width shall be positioned in accordance
with this standard; otherwise additional sprinklers shall be installed underneath the obstruction
(see Appendix A).
4. If additional sprinklers are installed beneath a continuous obstruction, up to two sprinklers operating at
the same pressure as those at the ceiling shall be added to the ceiling demand.
5. Sprinkler deflector distance from ceiling – Install sprinklers according to the manufacturer specification
(e.g. sprinkler data sheet or cut sheet). If the manufacturer does not specify an installation distance to
the ceiling, installation must be in accordance with NFPA 13 for the type of sprinkler. Optimal
installation clearance for pendent ESFR sprinkler deflector and the roof is between 6 inches (150 mm)
to 10 inches (250 mm).
6. Sprinkler deflector clearance to storage
a. Provide a minimum 36 inches (900 mm) clearance when ESFR sprinklers are installed.
b. Provide a minimum 18 inches (460 mm) clearance when CMD sprinklers are installed.
7. Ensure sprinkler installation follows specific sprinkler manufacturer data sheet.

8. Use of In‐Rack Sprinkler Protection
a. In‐rack sprinklers will be required within storage racks when the peak roof height exceeds the
listing of the sprinkler or where the aisle widths are lessor than those listed with the sprinkler.
The in‐rack sprinkler design requirements for transverse and longitudinal flues within NFPA 13 are
to be followed. Use of FM Global Data Sheet 8‐9, Section 2.3.6.6 is an acceptable alternative to
NFPA 13 for roof heights above 48 ft. (14.6 m).
b. Flue Spaces ‐ If the sprinkler system design is based on NFPA 13, then 6 inch (150 mm) transverse
flues are required. Transverse flues 3 inches (75 mm) wide are also used in our storage racks. The
ceiling design pressures will dictate the dimension of the transvers flue.

C. Storage under Crossover Platforms, Inbound/Outbound Mezzanine(s)/ Processing Mezzanine(s) and
Sortation Platforms
Nominal K‐factor,
Area Platform Height Design Flow Design Area
Response & Temp
15 ft. or less K11.2 QR/OT 0.40 gpm/ft² 2,500 ft²

(X < 4.5 m) (K160 QR/OT) (16.3 mm/min) (232 m2)
Mezzanines /
Platforms
Greater than 15 ft.
Note 1
(X > 4.5 m)
Note 1: When the height of the Crossover Platforms, Outbound / Processing Mezzanine(s) exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or storage height
is greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for additional sprinkler
protection requirements. The use of ESFRs are a viable option.
Section 5.1, Table 2: Summary of Sprinkler Protection for storage under Crossover Platforms, Outbound / Processing Mezzanine(s)
1. The typical storage commodity shall be treated as Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (CUP). The
fire protection system shall be designed as an Extra Hazard Group II with a sprinkler design density of
0.40 gpm/ft² (16.3 mm/min) over the most remote 2,500 ft² (232 m2). This sprinkler design is based on
a height of 15 ft. (4 m) or less. This protection scheme allows flexibility for operations to have CUP and
UUP storage.
Note: When the height of the pick‐mod exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or the storage heights are greater than
12 ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for
additional sprinkler design density requirements. If either of these conditions are met a higher
sprinkler design density will be required.
a. Use minimum K11.2 (K160), quick response‐type, ordinary temperature sprinklers, unless ambient
temperatures warrant a higher temperature rating.
b. Coordinate sprinklers with structural members, ductwork, lighting, electrical conduit, and other
obstructions. Sprinklers must follow ‘three times’ rule for all non‐structural components to
prevent obstructions.

D. Storage on Pick Mods / Pick Towers and Apparel Storage Platforms
Ceiling heights of
Nominal K‐factor,
Area Pick Towers (Pick Design Flow Design Area Pick Aisles
Response & Temp
Modes)
15 ft. or less K11.2 QR/OT 0.40 gpm/ft² 2,500 ft² Not less than 44

(X < 4.5 m) (K160 QR/OT) (16.3 mm/min) (232 m2) inches (1.1 m)
Mezzanines /
RSPs
Greater than 15 ft.
Note 1
(X > 4.5 m))
Note 1: When the height of the Pick Mod (Pick Tower) exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or storage height is greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m), refer
to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for additional sprinkler protection requirements.
Section 5.1, Table 3: Summary of Sprinkler Protection for Mezzanines / Pick Mods / Apparel Storage Platforms using K11.2 (K160)
sprinkler protection
1. The typical storage commodity shall be treated as Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (UUP).
The fire protection system shall be designed as an Extra Hazard Group II with a sprinkler design density
of 0.40 gpm/ft² (16.3 mm/min) over the most remote 2,500 ft² (232 m2). This sprinkler design is based
on a Pick Mod height of 15 ft. (4 m) or less. This protection scheme allows flexibility for the storage of
CUP and UUP commodities.
Note: When the height of the pick‐mods exceed 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or the storage heights are greater than 12
ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for additional
sprinkler design density requirements. If either of these conditions are met a higher sprinkler design
density will be required.
Legacy Pick Mods / Pick Towers constructed prior to 2013 with sprinkler design densities of 0.30
gpm/ft² (12 mm/min) over the most remote 2,500 sq. ft. (232 m2) are acceptable where the
predominate storage commodity is Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (CUP) or less. Storage
within plastic totes or bins is not acceptable when the sprinkler protection is designed for less than
0.40 gpm/ft² (16.3 mm/min) over the most remote 2,500 ft² (232 m2).
2. Minimum K11.2 (K160), quick response‐type, ordinary temperature sprinklers, unless ambient
temperatures warrant a higher temperature rating.
3. Coordinate sprinklers with structural members, ductwork, lighting, electrical conduit, and other
obstructions. Sprinklers must follow ‘three times’ rule for all non‐structural components to prevent
obstructions.
4. Price and install based on reduced spacing to provide a row of sprinklers down every aisle. The
sprinkler line should be centered to provide adequate sprinkler coverage.
5. In cases, where lighting other utilities create an obstruction, the sprinkler line must be within 12 inches
(300 mm) of the aisle center. Coordination between subcontractors is needed to prevent obstructions.
6. Sprinkler deflector distance from ceiling – Install sprinklers such that the deflector is no more than 12
inches (300 mm) from the mezzanine ceiling deck, or as otherwise accepted by the sprinkler
manufacturer’s guidelines. Position the sprinkler such that the clearance between the sprinkler
deflector and the top of storage is not less than 18 inches (450 mm).
7. Plastic totes cannot be used for bin box storage of products within the Pick Mod shelving, unless
designed per Section 5.1, Table 3.

E. Amazon Robotic Storage Platforms (RSPs)
Ceiling heights of Nominal K‐factor,
Area Design Flow Design Area
RSPs Response & Temp
Option 1
15 ft. or less K11.2 QR/OT 0.40 gpm/ft² 2,500 ft²
(X < 4.5 m) (K160 QR/OT) (16.3 mm/min) (232 m2)

Option 2*
RSPs Reliable N25EC Pendent
15 ft. or less 10 psi (0.7 bar) 12 heads
(SIN RA0842), 212F
(X < 4.5 m) 22 psi (1.5 bar) 6 heads
See Section 5, Table 4, Note 2

Greater than 15 ft.
See Note 1
(X > 4.5 m)
*Option 2: The design is supported by full scale fire testing conducted at UL in August of 2018. This design criteria has been used as an
alternative approach related to the building construction and must be specifically approved in each jurisdiction. Use of the
K25 EC sprinkler in the Amazon RSPs will require both hydraulic design calculations identified above. Use of the K25‐EC is
limited to the Reliable Model N25EC Pendent (SIN RA0842), 36 inches of clearance is needed.
Note 1: When the height for a RSP platform exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or storage height is greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA
13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for additional sprinkler protection requirements. When using
the K11.2 (K160) sprinkler, 18 inches clearance is needed.
Section 5.1, Table 4: Summary of Sprinkler Protection for RSPs
1. The typical storage commodity, including the AR pod, shall be treated as Uncartoned Unexpanded
Group A Plastic (UUP). It is understood that higher hazard products, such as expanded plastics, may
exist within the AR pods, but these commodities should not represent a significant percentage of the
overall commodity mix. The RSPs have two fire protection schemes as outlined below;
Option 1:
a. Use of a K11.2 (K160), quick response‐type, ordinary temperature sprinklers, unless ambient
temperatures warrant a higher temperature rating. Position the K11.2 (K160) sprinkler such that
the clearance between the sprinkler deflector and the top of storage is not less than 18 inches (450
mm).
b. The fire protection system shall be designed as an Extra Hazard Group II with a sprinkler design
density of 0.40 gpm/ft² (16.3 mm/min) over the most remote 2,500 ft² (232 m2). This sprinkler
design is based on a platform height of 15 ft. (4 m) or less. This protection scheme allows flexibility
for the storage of CUP and UUP commodities.
Note: When the height of the RSP ceiling exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or the storage heights are greater than
12 ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column E for
additional sprinkler design density requirements. If either of these conditions are met a higher
sprinkler design density will be required.
Option 2:
Use of the Reliable N25EC Pendent (SIN RA0842) with a temperature rating of 212oF. Position the
Reliable K25EC sprinkler such that the clearance between the sprinkler deflector and the top of storage
is not less than 36 inches (915 mm) under obstructed construction.
a. Coordinate sprinklers with structural members, ductwork, lighting, electrical conduit, and other
obstructions. Sprinklers must follow ‘three times’ rule (NFPA 13) for all non‐structural components
to prevent obstructions.
b. Sprinkler deflector distance from ceiling – Install sprinklers such that the deflector is no more than
12 inches (300 mm) from the ceiling above, or as otherwise accepted by the sprinkler
manufacturer’s guidelines.

F. Storage of Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned
Expanded Plastics (UEP) Commodities stored on the floor or in racks.
Peak Roof Height ‐ X Nominal K‐ Min. Number of In‐rack sprinkler

Area Storage Design Pressure
Ft. (m) factor Design Sprinklers required
X < 40 ft.
CEP K25.2 (K360) 60 psi (4.1 bar) 12 heads
(X < 12.2 m)
Greater than 40 ft. Yes
High‐Piled CEP
(X > 12.2 m) (See Note 2)
and/or Solid
Pile Storage X < 40 ft.
UUP K25.2 (K360) 60 psi (4.1 bar) 12 heads
of CEP, UUP (X < 12.2 m)
and UEP Greater than 40 ft. Yes
UUP
(See Notes 1 (X > 12.2 m) (See Note 2)
and 3) X < 40 ft.
UEP K25.2 (K360) 75 psi (5.2 bar) 12 heads
(X < 12.2 m)
Greater than 40 ft. Yes
UEP
(X > 12.2 m) (See Note 2)
Note 1: Plastic totes, foam mattresses (in a corrugated box), and foam cushions are commodities that have a greater BTU output
than our typical FC fire protection capabilities. ASINs classified as Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned
Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) and require a greater fire protection design.
Note 2: When in‐rack sprinklers are required. Provide a minimum vertical clearance of 6 in. (150 mm) between the top of storage
and the sprinkler deflector. At each tier level where in‐rack sprinklers are needed, position the in‐rack sprinkler deflector at
or just below the bottom of the rack’s load beam (horizontal support member) when it is under full‐load conditions.
In‐rack sprinklers will be required within storage racks when the peak roof height exceeds the listing of the sprinkler. The
in‐rack sprinkler design requirements within NFPA 13 are to be followed. Use of FM Global Data Sheet 8‐9is an acceptable
alternative to NFPA 13 for roof heights above 48 ft. (14.6 m).
Flue Spaces ‐ If the sprinkler system design is based on NFPA 13, 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flues are required between
loads (i.e., pallets) and at rack uprights. Transverse flues 3 inches (75 mm) are also used where an FM Global protection
scheme has been approved and is used. Also see Section 5.1, Table 1, and Notes 1 and 2
Note 3: Rack storage of CEP, UUP, and/or UEP require in‐rack sprinkler protection. Follow appropriate guidelines herein.
Section 5.1, Table 5: Summary of Sprinkler Protection by Area for Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded
Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) Commodities.
1. When plastic totes, foam mattresses, and foam cushions are stored within the racks, these
commodities are classified as Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP)
and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) and require a greater fire protection design.
Section 5.1, Table 5 provides the minimum sprinkler design for peak roof height up to 40 ft. (12 m).
Once the height exceeds 40 ft. (12 m), in‐rack sprinklers will be required.

G. Mattress Storage
1. Mattresses and other Foam based products – The storage of foam‐based products such as mattresses,
sofas, and other foam‐containing furniture, typical in a Special Handling FC. The primary basis for the
analysis was foam mattresses and mattress toppers.
Many of the mattresses that Amazon sells are foam‐based mattresses and fall within the “expanded
plastics” category of commodity classification within NFPA 13 – effectively the fire standard that is
reinforced by the International Fire Code (IFC) throughout most of the US (Ref. NFPA 13 20.4.5.3).
Allowable storage height of expanded plastics varies by whether it is stored on the floor or within a
rack, and based on the ceiling height (height from floor to underside of roof deck).
Expanded plastic materials burn with higher intensity than traditional plastic products. Amazon’s FCs
are typically installed with fire sprinkler systems that are compliant for storage of ‘Cartoned
Unexpanded Plastics’, but they are not typically adequate for ‘Expanded Plastics’. As such, additional
fire protection and storage requirements are needed – this includes in‐rack sprinkler protection
beneath solid barriers. In some cases, vertical barriers are also required.
Storage and fire protection options will vary based on the following:
a. Type and packaging of product (commodity classification), including whether the mattress is
cartoned or uncartoned.
b. Ceiling height over the area of storage, from the finished floor to the underside of the roof.
c. Existing ceiling sprinkler design, including size of sprinkler (k‐factor) and operating (water) pressure.
2. Fire Protection & Storage Options
The following storage and fire protection solutions are available based on the type of product
(commodity classification) and whether it is within a carton while in storage.
a. Option 1 (Floor Storage to 5‐ft)
Where permissible based on the ceiling height, floor storage of mattresses is allowed when
packaged in cartons (corrugate boxes) up to a maximum of 5‐ft. This provides minimal storage
capacity and is not likely preferred, but is no cost.
b. Option 2 (NFPA‐based In‐Rack design NFPA 2016 Edition Section 17.1.2.9 or NFPA 2019 Edition
Section 25.8 Option 1):
Where the rack is not dedicated to storage of commodities requiring the higher protection
schemes, the protection must either be extended horizontally one pallet load in all directions or it
will require a vertical barrier to segregate the commodities.
Provide solid horizontal barriers (minimum 22‐gauge sheet metal or 3/8‐in. plywood) at every level
with solid shelves or in open‐frame racks installed at vertical increments not exceeding 12 ft.
Install in‐rack sprinkler protection in accordance with NFPA 13, Section 17.1.2.9 with quick‐
response minimum K8.0 sprinklers below the horizontal barriers.
In‐rack sprinkler design shall be based on a minimum flow of 60 gpm from the most remote six
sprinklers in single‐row racks or eight sprinklers for double row and multiple row racks.
Consult a fire protection engineer for specific design details of the barriers and sprinkler layout.

c. Option 3 (NFPA‐based In‐Rack design NFPA 2019 Edition Section 25.8 Option 2):
Install in‐rack sprinkler protection in accordance with NFPA 13, Section 25.8.2 with quick‐response
ordinary temperature ESFR pendant sprinklers.
Maximum spacing of in‐rack sprinklers is 30 ft. vertical spacing.
In‐rack sprinkler design shall be based on a minimum flow of 120 gpm for Exposed Expanded Group
A Plastic from the most remote five sprinklers in single‐row racks or 12 sprinklers for double row
and multiple row racks.
d. Option 4 (NFPA‐based In‐Rack design NFPA 2019 Edition Section 25.8 Option 3):
Where the rack is not dedicated to storage of commodities requiring the higher protection
schemes, the protection must either be extended horizontally one pallet load in all directions or it
will require a vertical barrier to segregate the commodities.
Provide solid horizontal barriers (minimum 22‐gauge sheet metal or 3/8‐in. plywood) at every level
with solid shelves or in open‐frame racks installed at vertical increments not exceeding 20 ft.
Install intermediate temperature extended coverage CMDA pendent storage sprinklers with a K‐
factor of K‐25.2 below the horizontal barriers.
In‐rack sprinkler design shall be based on a minimum flow of 138 gpm from the most remote four
sprinklers in single‐row or double‐row racks or eight sprinklers for multiple row racks.
Consult a fire protection engineer for specific design details of the barriers and sprinkler layout.
e. Option 5: (NFPA 13‐Ceiling Only Design):
Provide Intermediate temperature rated K25.2 ESFR sprinklers designed with an end head pressure
of 60 PSI. Maximum ceiling height is limited to 40 ft. with a maximum storage height of 35 ft.
Install vertical barriers (minimum 22‐gauge sheet metal or 3/8‐in. plywood) from 4 inches above
the floor to the maximum storage height and spaced at intervals of 16.5 ft. or less in accordance
with NFPA 13 2016 Section 17.3.3.5 or 2019 edition Section 23.7.
H. Conveyors – The following guidelines must be discussed with, and approved by, the AHJ:
1. Floor supported conveyors
Sprinkler protection shall not be required below these conveyors provided there is a site procedure or
physical means to prevent storage below. The area shall be taped off according to Amazon 5S procedures,
indicating that storage is prohibited in that area. Request documentation of the procedure from the facility
group within Operations.
2. Roof Supported Conveyors
a. Sprinkler protection shall be provided below any conveyor wider than 2 ft. (0.6 m) that extends
above an area subject to or containing high‐piled or high‐rack storage. Confirm the minimum clear
height required in the area and coordinate the sprinkler and conveyor elevations to ensure the
required clear height remains clear. In addition, any sprinklers installed below 8 ft. (2.4 m) shall be
fitted with sprinkler guards to protect them from physical damage.
b. Areas not subject to high‐piled or high‐rack storage (i.e., below mezzanines, pick mods, and RSPs) –
In most cases, sprinklers shall not be provided below conveyors unless the conveyor is wider than 4
ft. (1.2 m) or where there are several conveyors grouped together create an obstruction greater
than 4 ft. (1.2 m) wide.
c. However, sprinklers may be required below roof supported conveyors less than 4 ft. (1.2 m) wide
where the conveyor is too close to the sprinklers and violates the ‘three times’ rule. Every effort
shall be made to coordinate the sprinkler and conveyor layout to avoid these situations.


Examples of Areas below conveyors needed sprinkler protection
I. Hydraulic Baler Shutdowns Options (Hydraulic Compactor Shutdowns)
1. Provide interlocked excess flow and/or low‐level cutoff switches to shutdown the hydraulic pump on loss of
hydraulic pressure caused by a line rupture. The switches are to be configured such that the hydraulic
pump is shut off if the system loses 25 gallons (94 L) or more due to a ruptured hydraulic line.
2. Provide an easily accessible manual “E‐stop switch” located remotely from the baler unit. The E‐stop switch
should be located near an exit door. Provide signage to identify the E‐Stop “Baler Emergency Stop.”
3. For shutdown of conveyors, see Section 7.8 of this standard.
4. Provide for the automatic shutdown of the baler’s hydraulic system(s) in the event of a fire by one of the
four options outlined below.
Option a) Provide automatic sprinkler protection over the baler’s hydraulic system. Interlock a waterflow
switch with the sprinkler piping over the hydraulic system. The waterflow switch is to be wired
in‐line with the baler PLC controls to shutdown the hydraulic pump. The waterflow switch does
not need to be supervised by the building fire alarm panel unless required by the AHJ.

OR
Option b) Provide a UL Listed and/or a FM Approved heat detector above the baler’s hydraulic system.
Install the heat detector above the hydraulic system. The heat detector is to be wired in‐line
with the baler PLC controls to shutdown the hydraulic pump. The heat detector does not need
to be supervised by the building fire alarm panel unless required by the AHJ.
OR
Option c) Provide a 212oF fusible link and a spring loaded shutoff valve on the baler’s hydraulic system.
The fusible link is to be located above the hydraulic system and wired into the spring loaded
shutoff valve. Operation of the fusible link will release the spring loaded shutoff valve and
shutdown the hydraulic pump.
OR
Option d) Provide a UL Listed and/or a FM Approved UV/IR flame detector located above the baler’s
hydraulic system. The flame detector is to be wired in‐line with the baler PLC controls to
shutdown the hydraulic pump. The flame detector does not need to be supervised by the
building fire alarm panel unless required by the AHJ.
J. Coolers and Freezers – When constructed of insulated wall panels and/or insulated metal sandwich panels,
the panels must be FM Approved.
1. Small reach in coolers and freezers (typically 5 ft. [1.5 m] wide or less) do not need sprinkler protection
installed within, unless required by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
2. “Walk‐in” coolers/freezers shall have automatic sprinkler protection installed. The “walk‐in” coolers
and freezers may be protected by dry pendent sprinklers supplied from an overhead wet‐pipe sprinkler
system. Base water demand on the use of a wet‐pipe sprinkler system. The minimum exposed length
of the barrel of the dry sprinkler above the top of the freezer ceiling shall be in accordance with NFPA
13 before connecting to the wet‐pipe system to prevent possible freezing of the pipe at the threaded
connection.
3. When lager coolers and freezers exceed 30 ft. (9.14 m) in height, automatic sprinkler protection is to be
installed around the perimeter per FM Data Sheet 8‐29, Refrigerated Storage (Section 2.2).
K. Tire Storage ‐ The proposed tire storage arrangement will consist of two levels of tire storage (with a
decking material installed between the two levels of tires) in open frame racks installed at the floor level. A
horizontal barrier will be installed above the tire storage to separate it from other commodities stored above
the tires.
Storage above and adjacent to the tire storage can be protected by the ceiling level sprinkler system
(NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.2 and 17.1.2.9.7).
1. Sprinklers will be installed under the horizontal barrier to protect the tire storage and will be
installed at the vertical uprights spaced at 10 or 12 ft. (3 m or 3.6 m) in the longitudinal flue. Face
sprinklers will also be installed at the midway point of the rack at 5 or 6 ft. (1.5 m or 1.8 m)
depending on the rack construction (i.e. 10 or 12 ft.). The in‐rack sprinkler system design will consist
of eight K11.2 [K160] sprinklers.
The barrier shall be constructed of minimum 22‐gauge sheet metal or of minimum 3/8‐inch plywood
(NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.3.4(A)). Penetrations in the barrier shall span horizontally so that all flue spaces
within the rack bay are covered (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.3.2 and 17.1.2.9.3.4(B)) except that a maximum
3‐inch wide gap shall be permitted at rack uprights / other vertical rack member or equipment that
would create an opening, such as a vertical in‐rack sprinkler pipe (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.3.3 and
17.1.2.9.3.4(C)).
2. Install sprinklers beneath the horizontal barrier with the deflector of the sprinkler located close to
the underside of the horizontal barrier as possible (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.4). The design of the in‐racks
sprinklers shall support the simultaneous operation of the hydraulically most remote twelve
sprinklers at a minimum flow of 60 gpm (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.5 and 18.5.3). The hydraulic design
calculations must include an additional 500 gpm for outside hose streams. The in‐ rack sprinkler
demand does not need to be hydraulically balanced with the ceiling‐ level sprinkler system and can be
calculated separately (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.6).
Spacing of In‐Rack Sprinkler Spacing for double‐row racks, install sprinklers at each rack upright
within the longitudinal flue space, at the face of the rack and at the mid‐bay face of each rack bay
(NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.4.2) where the maximum horizontal spacing of sprinklers in the racks shall not
exceed 10 ft. (3 m) per NFPA 13, 18.5.2.
3. Extend the protection (in‐rack sprinklers and horizontal barrier) prescribed above in numbers 1 and 2
horizontally one pallet load in all directions beyond tire storage (NFPA 13, 17.1.2.9.1(1)).
The proposed tire storage arrangement will consist of two levels of tire storage (with a decking
material installed between the two levels of tires) in open frame racks installed at the floor level. A
horizontal barrier will be installed above the tire storage to separate it from other commodities stored
above the tires.
L. Storage of Distilled Spirits on the Floor, within a Pick Tower (PT) levels G and G+1, 2 and 3, within French racking
and Single / Double row racks.
The storage of distilled spirits presents a significate challenge to our fire protection systems. Existing protection
at the roof level needs to be evaluated on a case by case base. Some legacy FC have control mode sprinkler
installed at the peak roof height. Some of these designs may be insufficient to protect the upper level of the
pick tower without additional changes to the fire protection systems.
The design concepts are based on distilled sprints with an ABV of 50% or lower and distilled sprints with an ABV
of 50% or higher. Alcohol with an ABV above 50% must be stored separately in a 2 hr. rated room.
The storage up to 1.5 gal. (5.6 l) of distilled spirits in our Pick Towers (PT) will require and evaluation by a
licensed fire protection engineer. Typical bottle volumes are 700 ml. to 750 ml. The design densities detailed
below are for NA and UK FCs. Designs the DE FCs required a double branch line down the aisles.
The Pick Tower (PT) design is based on using K11.2 (K160), ordinary‐temperature rated, standard response
sprinklers. The fire hose demand would be 500 gpm (1900 l/mm).
1. Storage of Distilled Spirits within a Pick Tower (PT), on Levels G+4
a) If AFFF foam is not used to support the storage of Cartoned distilled spirits with and ABV of 50%
or less, the fire protection system shall be designed for 0.45 gpm over 2,500 sq. ft. (18.2 mm over
232 m2).
b) If AFFF foam is not used to support the storage of Uncartoned distilled spirits with and ABV of
50% or less, the fire protection system shall be designed for 0.60 gpm over 3,000 sq. ft. (24.4 mm
over 280m2).
c) If AFFF foam is used to support the storage of Cartoned or Uncartoned distilled spirits with and
ABV of 50% or less, the fire protection system shall be designed for 0.40 gpm over 2,500 sq. ft.
(16.3 mm over 232 m2.)
2. Storage of Distilled Spirits ABV of 50% or higher
a) If AFFF foam is not used to support the storage of Cartoned or Uncartoned distilled spirits with
and ABV of 50% or higher, the fire protection system shall be designed for 0.60 gpm over 3,000
sq. ft. (24.4 mm over 280m2).
b) If AFFF foam is used to support the storage of Cartoned or Uncartoned distilled spirits with and
ABV of 50% or higher, the fire protection system shall be designed for 0.40 gpm over 2,500 sq. ft.
(16.3 mm over 232 m2).
3. Storage of Distilled Spirits within Pallet Racking or Stand Alone Pallet Racking (French Racking)
regardless of ABV
For pallet rack storage follow FM 7‐29, follow scheme A. Table 16 indicates that alcohol groups 1, 2, 3
or 4 may be stored in single row racks (SRR) with aisle widths of 4 ft. or greater. The distilled spirits
must be cartoned.
Storage of Uncartoned containers in both glass and plastic bottles with volumes up to 1.5 gal. (5.6 l)
can be expected (FM 7‐29, Table 16 and Section D2.2). Aisles of 8 ft. must be maintained between
racks.
The solid barrier will be needed between each level for either cartoned or uncartoned. Distilled
spirits. Solid barriers shall be constructed of 22 ga. sheet metal, or min. 3/8 in plywood.
 Design Density: Minimum flow of 57 gpm (215 l/min) out of the hydraulically most remote eight
sprinklers below each of the solid barrier (each level).
 Minimum K11.2 (K160), ordinary‐temperature rated, standard response in‐rack sprinklers.
 500 gpm (1900 l/min) hose stream allowance, 1‐hr duration minimum
 FM 7‐29 Figure 12A or 12B provide the sprinkler configuration options.
5.2 REGIONAL EXCEPTIONS TO SECTION 5.1 AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER PROTECTION
A. Japan – Sprinkler protection is not required for most Japan FCs. However, at or above certain storage
heights and building heights of 32.8 ft. (10 m) sprinkler protection is required per local codes. Where
automatic sprinkler protection is required, the design shall follow this Standard.
Additional fire protection features are required regardless of provision of automatic sprinkler protection,
including fire‐resistive construction; fire compartments with automatic fire shutters (the size of which is
dependent on whether automatic sprinklers exist); lower egress distance requirements; fire hose stations
supplied by multiple fire‐water storage tanks; and trained emergency fire brigades. Refer to ‘REGIONAL
EXCEPTIONS’ of the Worldwide Real Estate Design Standards for country‐specific requirements that differ
from this Standard.
B. India – Sprinkler protection shall be provided for India FCs according to the following guidelines:
1. Small Buildings – Sprinkler protection shall not be required per this Standard in single story buildings
less than 20,000 ft2 (1,858 m2), provided there are no pick mods (pick towers, pick mezzanines),
mezzanines, or elevated levels, and provided there are no storage racks exceeding 12 ft. (3.6 m). A life
safety and egress study must be completed to verify there are adequate exits and egress paths, fire
extinguishers, fire detection and alarm system, and other life safety features existing or included in the
design.
However, should local code or local officials require sprinkler protection, local code requirements shall
supersede this section.
2. Existing Buildings ‐–Existing Buildings 20,000 ft2 (1,858 m2) or greater shall be sprinklered and provided
with fire protection according to this standard, or the most current edition of the National Building
Code of India (NBC) and IS 15105 Design and Installation of Fixed Automatic Sprinkler Fire Extinguisher
Systems – Code of Practice. Refer to ‘REGIONAL EXCEPTIONS’ of the Worldwide Real Estate Design
Standards for a summary of applicable code requirements.
This does not eliminate the need to retain an in‐country fire protection consultant to verify all local
codes are considered in the design. Designs that deviate from this Standard shall be submitted to both
the Senior Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, Engineering & Construction and Amazon’s Asset
Risk Manager for approval.
3. Existing Buildings ‐–Buildings 200,000 ft2 (18,581 m2) or greater, or buildings with peak roof heights of
32 ft. (9.8 m) or greater will typically require additional structural reinforcement to support the
required sprinkler protection. Designs for any such buildings shall be submitted to both the Senior
Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, Engineering & Construction and Amazon’s Asset Risk Manager
for approval.
4. Build‐to‐Suit ‐ Build‐to‐Suit FCs or operations sites 20,000 ft² (1,858 m²) or greater shall be sprinklered
and provided fire protection according to this Standard. Local codes that may exceed this standard (e.g.
require redundant fire pumps).

5.3 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
A. System Design Requirements
1. The new system shall be a fully field programmable, microprocessor‐based addressable system capable
of two‐way communication over signaling line circuits between intelligent/analog addressable initiating
devices or addressable interfacing/control modules and the fire alarm control panel.
2. All equipment shall be new and unused with a warranty of at least one year from the date of final
inspection and acceptance by the Owner and Amazon.
3. All panels and peripheral devices shall be the standard product of a single manufacturer and shall
display the manufacturer’s name on each component. All components of the system shall be UL listed
and/or FM Approved, and compatibility of all system components shall be verified.
4. The fire alarm control panel (FACP) shall be provided to monitor all initiating devices, including
waterflow and valve tamper switches for all fire sprinkler systems, fire pump related valve tamper
switches, fire pump supervisory signals, manual pull stations, spot and duct smoke detectors, and all
other initiating devices indicated on the fire protection drawings and specifications. For locations where
a pre‐action sprinkler system will be installed for the MDF room or otherwise, provide a releasing
module listed with the FACP. This will provide a cost‐saving alternative to installing a standalone pre‐
action releasing panel.
5. The system shall provide a distinct evacuation signal using strobes and horn/strobes. The system shall
be arranged such that the evacuation signals are activated according to the Fire Alarm Sequence of
Operations Matrix (Appendix B) provided in this standard. All system strobes shall continue to operate
normally following silencing of the system until the system is reset. All strobes shall be synchronized to
operate simultaneously.
6. Voice Communications Systems – An emergency voice communication system shall not be utilized by an
Amazon FC.
a. Since a typical FC features a large open structure, hard surfaces, high ambient noise levels, and high
deck heights, there is a practical difficulty in achieving intelligibility of voice announcements. For
voice communication systems, achieving intelligibility is paramount to the notification of
occupants.
b. The use of horn/strobe devices is much better suited for a typical FC since these devices will be
audible above the ambient noise of equipment and conveyors and provide a clearly recognizable
signal for evacuation. A sound attenuation study is need after the MHE equipment is installed and
in operation.
c. Since typical FCs are not accessible by the public and employees are trained regularly through
emergency alarm drills, the use of horn/strobe devices, in lieu of speakers, will provide a more
effective and achievable occupant notification of emergencies.
d. Where voice communications systems cannot be avoided due to local mandates, special approval
must be provided by Amazon Real Estate.
7. The fire alarm control panel shall allow for loading or editing special instructions and operating
sequences as required. The system is to be capable of on‐site programming to accommodate facility
expansion, building parameter changes, or changes as required by local codes. The substitution of
EEPROMS or other electronic memory chips shall not be required for any programming changes related
to system modification or expansion.
All software operations are to be stored in a non‐volatile programmable memory within the fire alarm
control panel. Loss of primary and secondary power shall not erase the instructions stored in memory.
The Owner/Tenant shall be provided with both a written and an electronic copy of the complete
program for the system, along with appropriate software which will allow the maintenance staff to
carry out programming changes involving the system.
8. The FACP shall be provided with one‐touch disabling capabilities for ease of system testing and to avoid
unintended false alarms/evacuations.
9. The FACP shall be located in the fire pump room, as indicated on the fire protection drawings. In the
case an FC does not have a fire pump, the FACP shall be located on the wall immediately adjacent to
the Main Security Desk.
10. Full‐function remote annunciator panel with LCD display and the capability to acknowledge, silence,
and reset all alarm, supervisory, or trouble conditions, shall be provided and located near the Main
Security Desk. Coordinate the exact location of the equipment with the Amazon.
11. Selection of cable types and wire with respect to conductor size, shielding requirements, and
separation between circuits shall be in full compliance with the requirements of the manufacturer of
the FACP, without exception. All circuit wire/cable shall be specifically listed for use with fire alarm
systems. Fire alarm system is recommended to be installed with 3‐4 SLC loops in order to limit the
length of wire runs.
12. The FACP shall be designed for future expansion and modification. In no case shall circuit and/or
module loading exceed eighty (80) percent of the design capacity as specified by the manufacturer.
13. All subpanels, such as NAC Panels, shall be designed for future expansion and modification. In no case
shall circuit and/or module loading exceed eighty percent (80%) of the design capacity as specified by
the manufacturer.
14. The FACP shall monitor the pre‐action RCP conditions, as indicated in the Fire Alarm Sequence of
Operations Matrix (Appendix B) in this standard.
15. All alarm and supervisory devices shall be monitored as separate and distinct alarm points using
separate monitor modules as needed.
16. Power to the FACP, DACT, RCP, and NAC panels shall be supplied from individual, dedicated AC power
circuits (one circuit per control panel), which serve no other loads. Each circuit shall be equipped with a
separate breaker, which is properly sized and identified per NFPA 70 and NFPA 72. Each circuit breaker
shall be red marked and mechanically locked to prevent unauthorized operation.

17. Each AC power circuit shall be provided with a separate transient voltage surge suppression (TVSS)
device. All low voltage power conductors associated with the fire alarm system passing from the
interior to the exterior of a structure shall be protected with listed fast‐acting TVSS devices including,
but not limited to, AC power supplies, initiating device circuits, signaling line circuits, notification
appliance circuits, annunciator data circuits, and telephone lines.
18. Fire Alarm System Maintenance Bypass Switches
The fire alarm maintenance bypass switches are to be provided to ease the maintenance and annual
testing requirements. Some of our legacy locations have the older analog fire alarm system. Most of
our newer locations have the intelligent/addressable fire alarm system(s).
The intent of this section is to identify specific equipment (but not limited to) that when shutdown will
cause an operational impact during maintenance/testing of the fire alarm system. It should also be
noted that any equipment that is connected to a maintenance bypass is required to be tested annually
to verify the shutdown is operational.
In all cases, activation of a manual pull station will override the maintenance bypass functions. The
requirements for each type of fire alarm system are provided below.
a. Analog Fire Alarm Systems
1. A turnstile maintenance bypass switch shall be installed to prevent turnstiles from free
spinning or locking in place upon activation of a fire system.
Discussions with site EH&S and Security are needed prior to testing of the turnstile
maintenance bypass switch.
The bypass switch shall require installation of one (1) key switch and one (1) monitor module.
The key switch shall be located across from the security desk near the fire alarm remote
annunciator. When the key switch is engaged it will prevent the fire alarm system from
engaging the turnstile "free spin" function on an "alarm" condition and relay a "supervisory"
signal to the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote annunciator panel.
Provide identification signage above the maintenance bypass switch.
Note: This bypass function shall not be used during Associate Fire Evacuation drills, unless there
is no exit door immediately adjacent to the turnstiles marked as an “exit”.
2. Amazon Robotics field bypass switch shall be installed to prevent shutdown of the field system
during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
The bypass switch shall require installation of two (2) key switches and two (2) monitor
modules. The key switches and monitor modules shall be located outside the MDF room on
the common wall of the MDF room and the warehouse, mounted flush. When the key switch
is engaged it will prevent the fire alarm system from shutting down AR on an "alarm" condition
and relay a "supervisory" signal to the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote
annunciator at the main entrance.
Note: This bypass function shall not be used during Associate Fire Evacuation drills.
3. Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGV) bypass switch shall be installed to prevent shutdown of the
AGV system during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems. The bypass switch
shall require installation of two (2) key switches and two (2) monitor modules. The key
switches and monitor modules shall be located outside the MDF room on the common wall of
the MDF room and the warehouse, mounted flush. When the key switch is engaged it will
prevent the fire alarm system from shutting down on an "alarm" condition and relay a
"supervisory" signal to the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote annunciator at the
main entrance.
b. Addressable Fire Alarm Systems with Initiating Devices
The maintenance bypass functions are to be programed within the fire alarm programing logic.
When the bypass function is activated via the fire alarm panel, the bypass function shall cause a
supervisory condition on the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote annunciator.
Signage identifying each maintenance bypass function shall be provided inside the FACP.
1. A turnstile maintenance bypass function shall be programed to prevent turnstiles from free
spinning or locking in place upon during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
Discussions with site EH&S and Security are needed prior to testing of the turnstile
maintenance bypass function.
Note: This bypass function shall not be used during Associate Fire Evacuation drills, unless there is no
exit door immediately adjacent to the turnstiles marked as an “exit”.
2. An Amazon Robotics field maintenance bypass function shall be programed to prevent
shutdown of the AR field system during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
3. An Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGV) maintenance bypass function shall be programed to
prevent shutdown of the AGV system during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection
systems.
4. A Conveyor Tunnels (conveyor bridges) maintenance bypass shall be programed to prevent the
shutdown of the conveyors during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
B. Installation Contractor Qualifications
1. The fire alarm equipment distributor and installer shall be competent firms which are regularly engaged
in the design, installation, testing, and servicing of fire alarm systems for commercial buildings.
2. Contractor shall be certified by the material/equipment manufacturer as trained in, and as
knowledgeable of, the manufacturer's standard practices and procedures relating to installation of
sprinkler systems. The Contractor shall be certified and licensed by the state and local jurisdictions, as
applicable.
3. Contractor shall utilize the services of a fire alarm equipment distributor (when applicable) which is a
factory authorized representative and a stocking distributor of the equipment manufacturer and shall
maintain a constant inventory of the parts typical of those used in the system installation covered
under this specification. This distributor shall be located within 125 miles (200 km) of the project site.
4. Contractor shall have successfully installed fire alarm systems of the same type and design as specified
herein. The Contractor shall provide evidence of such qualifications. The data shall include the names
and locations of at least three (3) installations where the Contractor has installed such systems.
The Contractor shall indicate the type and design of each system and certify that each system has
performed satisfactorily in the manner intended for a period of not less than 18 months. The
Contractor shall be certified by the State as a fire alarm installer and shall provide a copy of
certification.

C. Submittals
1. Shop Submittal Package
a. The Contractor shall prepare a shop submittal package covering the complete system. The shop
submittal package shall be submitted to the approval authorities for review and approval. The
submittal to the Engineer shall be in an electronic (PDF) format. The shop submittal package shall
be approved prior to ordering materials or starting construction. The complete submittal shall
conform to all requirements of this section.
b. At the time of completion of the submittal package and prior to transmittal to the AHJ, the
Contractor shall independently perform a quality assurance review of the entire submittal package
internally to assure completeness and conformance with the specifications and design drawings.
The Contractor shall use the submittal checklist in Appendix C of this section to accomplish this
review. The completed checklist shall be submitted with the shop submittal package.
c. The shop submittal package shall include the following information:
1. Complete system shop drawings using AutoCAD (2013 or newer), drawn to scale and showing
all system components and functions, including FACP, DACT, RCP, initiating devices,
addressable modules, relay modules, surge suppressors, interlocks, etc. Drawings shall also
indicate point‐to‐point wiring to all devices and panels and an elementary wiring schematic
(riser diagram) depicting the actual intended circuit paths and all devices on the system.
Drawings shall indicate board level wiring diagrams indicating proper connections inside each
panel and subpanel. Drawings shall indicate individual addresses of each addressable point at
each device. Drawings shall indicate a listing of the proposed point descriptions (each point)
for approval.
2. Drawings shall indicate wire counts, type, and size of wire or cable used, and the size and type
of all conduit and their locations throughout. The location of all junction boxes shall be
shown.
3. Complete battery back‐up calculations and voltage drop calculations. Battery back‐up
calculations shall be performed in conformance with NFPA 72 for the FACP, DACT, and RCP.
Ampere‐hour requirements for each system component shall be submitted with the
calculations. Voltage drop calculations shall utilize a starting voltage of 20.4 VDC.
4. Complete equipment data for all materials and equipment proposed for installation.
5. Installation, operation, and programming manuals for all panels and equipment.
6. Complete bill of materials, listing all system components by manufacturer, quantity, and part
number, shall accompany the equipment submittal.
7. Complete details of manufacturer’s warranties on equipment and Contractor's warranties on
installation.
8. Complete manual(s) covering installation, operation, testing, and programming of the FACP.
9. Submit copies of shop drawings and documents to Amazon Risk Management:
[email protected] for review by Amazon’s insurance providers, where necessary.
2. Record Documentation
a. Prepare and maintain on‐site throughout the installation of the fire alarm system at least one set of
marked‐up (“red‐lined”) drawings which show the system as installed, including deviations from
both the project drawings and the approved shop drawings. At least one set of marked‐up
drawings shall be provided to the Engineer at the time of, or prior to, the final acceptance test and
installation review.
b. Prepare and submit record shop drawings, product data, and hydraulic calculations reflecting final
as‐built conditions at completion of project, but before final acceptance of the work. These
documents shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements for the initial submittal.
Freehand sketches or mark‐up documents are not acceptable. Record drawings shall be submitted
on electronic media (CD or DVD) in PDF and AutoCAD formats.
c. Record documentation shall consist of the following:
1. Record wiring and conduit/wire layout diagrams which indicate wire type, color code, size,
and device interconnection. These drawings shall be drawn to scale and not less than 1/8
inch = 1 ft. and shall be produced and submitted in AutoCAD (2013 or newer) format.
2. Record elementary (including board level) wiring diagrams of the FACP, DACT, RCP, modules,
and circuit interconnections.
3. Record riser diagrams that indicate the actual installed arrangement of all initiating,
notification, and signaling circuits and auxiliary devices.
4. Record device location drawings with device numbers provided for all initiating, notification,
and control devices. Final selected power tap settings on all notification devices shall be
indicated. The location of all junction boxes shall be shown.
5. Original technical literature produced by the manufacturer on all major parts of the system
including control panel, DACT, modules, initiating and notification devices, power supplies,
switches, and auxiliary controls.
6. Complete battery back‐up power calculations, performed in conformance with NFPA 72 for
the FACP, fire alarm control units, and automatic transmitters, and final voltage drop
calculations for all notification device circuits.
7. Complete Bill of Materials for the system listing all system components, manufacturer,
quantity, and part number.
8. Complete documentation of the manufacturer's warranties on both equipment and
installation.
9. Complete printout of the FACP programming.
d. All record documents and related system documentation shall be submitted to the Engineer for
review and approval prior to final submittal to the Owner.
3. Contractor’s Record of Inspection and Acceptance Testing
a. Upon completion of required inspection and testing, submit completed and signed Fire Alarm and
Emergency Communication System Inspection and Testing Form, in accordance with NFPA 72
requirements, certifying systems meet or exceed the specified requirements. Such documents shall
be provided to the General Contractor with copies provided to the Amazon Construction Manager
and Amazon Risk Management ([email protected]) for review by Amazon’s insurance
providers, where necessary.
Contractor must maintain and submit documentation of device‐by‐device acceptance testing
including confirmation of all associated required outputs. In all cases activation of a manual pull
station will override the maintenance bypass functions. Documentation shall include, but not be
limited to the following:
1. Global warehouse HVAC equipment shutdown (including HVLS fans) upon activation of a fire
sprinkler waterflow switch associated with a warehouse sprinkler system.
2. Local HVAC unit shutdown upon activation of the associated duct‐type smoke detector.
3. No evacuation signal upon activation of a duct‐type smoke detector. Duct‐type smoke
detectors must be programmed as Supervisory‐type signals.
4. No evacuation signal upon activation of any fire pump monitoring signal (including Fire Pump
Running). Fire pump monitoring signals must be programmed as Supervisory‐type signals.
5. Shutdown of AR field via waterflow, following shutdown sequence described in Section 4.2.
6. Testing the entryway turnstile egress during activation of a fire protection systems.
7. Testing of the shutdown of any Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGV) upon activation of a fire
sprinkler waterflow switch associated with a warehouse sprinkler system.
8. Testing of the shutdown of conveyors within any conveyor tunnels between buildings upon
activation of either buildings fire sprinkler waterflow switch associated with a warehouse
sprinkler system.
4. Warranty and Service Agreement
a. The prime Contractor shall provide, as a part of the installation cost of the fire alarm system, a
warranty and service agreement to cover the installation of the complete system, as well as
planned and emergency service for a period of one year following final system acceptance by the
Owner and Engineer.
b. The warranty and service agreement shall include the following:
1. Labor, parts, and equipment for components placed under warranty.
2. Labor, parts, and equipment to accomplish any manufacturer recommended upgrades or
component replacements.
3. Guarantee that all factory issued notifications related to system equipment/programming
upgrades and replacements will be carried out within 14 days of initial notification by the
manufacturer.
4. During the warranty period, the fire alarm equipment distributor shall periodically perform
complete inspections of the system including recommended tests and maintenance in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and all applicable NFPA codes and
standards.
5. This testing shall include all manual pull stations, detection devices, annunciators, control
equipment, auxiliary equipment, notification circuits, and individual notification devices.
6. The fire alarm equipment distributor shall provide a written record of all sensitivity settings of
system smoke detectors on a six month frequency. The distributor is responsible for
monitoring the drift or cleanliness level of the detectors based on sensitivity measurements
and for taking appropriate action to prevent false alarms from occurring.
7. Complete written reports covering the test interval shall be submitted to the Owner/Tenant
within five working days of completion of field testing. These reports shall comply with the
requirements of NFPA 72.
8. Written information concerning contacting of the fire alarm equipment distributor for normal
and emergency service on a 24 hour period with appropriate phone numbers and contact
names.
9. The Contractor shall guarantee provision of emergency service coverage for the system by
properly trained, experienced, and knowledgeable service technicians 24 hours per day, 7
days per week, including all holidays.
10. Written guarantee of maximum call‐back time of 1‐hour, 4‐hour on‐site response time for
emergency service related to alarm conditions, and 12‐hour on‐site response time related to
trouble and supervisory conditions from the initial call.
11. Provision for two (2) major programming changes and ten (10) minor programming changes
at the option of the Owner/Tenant during the warranty period at different times selected by
the Owner/Tenant. Major programming changes involve address changes, message changes,
function changes, or other similar changes to fifteen (15) or more devices. Minor
programming changes involve less than fifteen (15) devices.
12. Within 30 days of the end of the warranty period, the fire alarm equipment distributor shall
clean all devices, test and re‐certify the fire alarm system, and provide a written report as
stated elsewhere in this section. This testing shall include measurement/verification of the
sensitivity level of the system smoke detectors, with a complete sensitivity report included as
part of the system testing documentation.
D. Main Fire Alarm Control Panel
1. Location – The main FACP shall be located in the fire pump room or on the wall immediately
adjacent to the Main Security Desk. When the main FACP is located in the fire pump room, provide
a remote auxiliary panel near the Main Security Desk.
2. The FACP shall provide a signal out to the Building Management System for visibility purposes only.
3. The FACP shall be readily accessible and shall conform to the requirements of NFPA 72 for a local
and Central Station protective signaling system. The complete assembly shall be UL listed under
the Ninth Edition of UL 864. The fire alarm panel enclosure shall be NEMA 2 rated and shall be
equipped with a hinged cover and key‐operated latch.
4. The FACP shall be approved for supervision of intelligent/addressable initiating devices through a
microprocessor.
5. The FACP shall be fully field programmable using any compatible laptop computer. The FACP shall
be capable of operating a minimum of one (1) printer and three (3) remote liquid crystal display
annunciators over standard RS‐232‐C interfaces.
6. The FACP shall contain an alpha‐numeric system status display of at least 80 characters, which can
be viewed without opening the FACP front cover. This display shall be field programmable and
capable of automatically displaying device address number, device type, status of alarm or trouble,
and Owner designated message. It shall be possible to step through the current alarm or trouble
indications through the use of a keypad on the control panel.
7. The FACP shall be capable of reading and recording the true sensitivity level of all intelligent/analog
smoke detectors, including duct‐type detectors. The control panel shall be specifically listed under
UL 864 to perform this function from the panel. It shall not be necessary to perform any degree of
testing at the individual detection devices in order to conform to the UL listing. The control panel
shall also incorporate a walk‐test feature to facilitate testing of the system and a minimum 800
event history buffer.
8. The FACP shall be capable of alarm verification on a per device basis. The main panel and all
subpanels shall be modular in construction and designed to receive plug‐in component boards to
accomplish the various system functions described in this specification. The FACP shall have alarm
and trouble silence switches with a subsequent alarm and trouble receiving feature. Silencing of
audible notification signals shall not affect the operation of controlled relays or annunciators.
9. All AC power connections shall be hardwired on individual dedicated branch circuits, which serve
no other loads. The circuit panels chosen for the dedicated branch circuits shall not include other
circuits which supply motor related loads greater than 1 horsepower. The circuit and connections
shall be mechanically protected within approved electrical enclosures, conduits, or raceways. The
power circuit disconnecting means shall be clearly labeled “Fire Alarm System Power – [location].”
The disconnecting means shall be located in a locked enclosure, which is accessible only to
authorized personnel.
10. Normal backup power to the FACP shall be provided with 24 VDC battery back‐up which is sized to
operate the complete system on standby for 24 hours. Following this 24 hour period, the batteries
shall be capable of operating the system under alarm conditions for a period of five (5) minutes.
11. The FACP shall be equipped with integral battery chargers which automatically keep the batteries
fully charged. Wires, which lead from the back‐up battery terminals, shall be fully supervised for
open and short circuit conditions.
12. The FACP shall automatically switch to back‐up battery power in the event that the incoming
power level drops to eighty (80) percent of rated voltage. All system functions including detection,
supervision, annunciation, alarm retransmission, evacuation signaling, and control functions shall
operate identically on either primary or back‐up power.
13. The FACP, auxiliary devices, and all electronic components shall be designed and installed such that
no spurious signals or operations occur within the system, which are the result of radio/cellular
phone transmissions. The system shall not be adversely affected by either a five (5) Watt hand‐
held two‐way radio or a one‐half (1/2) Watt cellular telephone being operated within twelve (12) in
of any system panel or device.
14. The fire alarm control panels, and any notification device circuit power supply panels, shall each be
protected by a separate UL listed fast‐acting electrical transient surge suppressor which
incorporates low Z earth grounding. The surge suppressor shall be UL 1449 listed with a 330‐volt
suppression level and shall have a maximum response time of 5 nanoseconds. The device shall
meet IEEE CG2.41 Category B tests for surge capacity. The device shall feature multi‐stage
construction which includes inductors and silicon avalanche zener diodes. The devices shall be
housed in a metal enclosure with a hinged, latching door, or a removable cover. Each enclosure
shall be located immediately adjacent to the associated panel being supplied.
15. There shall be no limit to the amount of sensors, stations, or interface control modules, which may
be activated or in alarm simultaneously.
E. Remote Annunciators
1. Remote annunciator panels shall include an 80‐character LCD display to mimic the FACP display. The
device shall be equipped with backlighting and control switches for system acknowledge, signal silence,
and system reset. The remote annunciator shall be capable of flush or surface mount.
2. The remote annunciator shall be equipped with a piezo sounder with alarm/trouble resound.
3. Refer to Section 5.2.D (1) for placement of the FACP. If the FACP is located in the fire pump room, then
remote annunciator panel shall be located at the Main Security Desk.
If the FACP is located at Main Security Desk, then a remote annunciator is required in the fire pump
room/house.
For existing locations, if the FACP is not located at the Main Security Desk or the Fire Pump Room, then
remote annunciators are required at both locations.

F. Manual Pull Stations
1. Manual pull stations shall not be used extensively throughout the building, as these devices create a
potential attractive nuisance to Associates and provide little to increase fire and life safety in a fully
sprinklered building. Provide a single manual pull station adjacent to the Main Security Desk for alarm
activation by security personnel, unless more are required by the AHJ.
An additional manual pull station may also be provided at the Facilities Shop or a regular attended
location. The primary purpose of this device to give alarm maintenance technicians a way to manually
activate the fire alarm system in the event of a fire during times the system (or portions of it) are down
for maintenance.
G. Use of Smoke Detection
1. Area Smoke Detection – The installation of area smoke detection shall be avoided in Amazon FCs. Area
smoke detection is undesirable in warehouse‐type occupancies due to the environment (e.g., the
presence of corrugate dust) and the resulting higher risk of false alarms. The effectiveness of area
smoke detection is also questionable due to the potential for stratification in high ceiling areas. Where
area smoke detection cannot be avoided due to local mandates, install air‐sampling type smoke
detection fitted with compatible in‐line filtration appropriate for the environment. When permitted by
the local fire authority, the air‐sampling detectors shall be arranged in a cross‐zone configuration
(double‐knock configuration) to help prevent false alarms
2. Beam‐type Smoke Detection – It is preferred not to use beam detection within the general warehouse
areas. Where beam‐type smoke detection is proposed, special approval must be provided by Amazon
Real Estate. When permitted by the local fire authority, the beam detectors shall be arranged in a
cross‐zone configuration (double‐knock configuration) to help prevent false alarms.
3. Duct‐type Smoke Detectors – Shall be provided in locations as required by local mandates. At
minimum, duct‐type smoke detectors shall be provided on the supply side of all units with a design
capacity greater than 2,000 cfm (0.9 m3/s). The purpose of these detectors is threefold:
a. To prevent an operating HVAC unit from spreading smoke that is pulled into from the environment
(e.g., the warehouse),
b. To detect a fire within the HVAC unit and automatically shut it down,
c. To provide a secondary means of shutting the unit down to stop airflow in the vicinity of operating
fire sprinklers.
1. Duct detectors shall be analog/addressable, photoelectric, spot‐type devices. The positioning
of the duct detector shall be carefully chosen to assure optimum performance of the detector.
The detector shall incorporate an LED to indicate both normal operation (pulsed light) and
alarm activation (steady light).
2. Differential pressure measurements shall be taken and recorded by the Contractor to assure
compliance with the manufacturer’s requirements. The detector shall incorporate sample
tubes which are both selected and installed in full conformance with the manufacturer’s
requirements.
3. The detector shall be the plug‐in type with a twist‐lock base. The sensitivity of the individual
detectors shall be readily determinable through the fire alarm control panel. The sensitivity
setting of the individual detectors shall also be adjustable through the control panel.

4. Spot‐type Smoke Detectors – Shall only be provided as required by local mandates. Spot type smoke
detectors are undesirable in Amazon FC storage and material handling areas due to the potential for
false alarms. Where provided, spot‐type smoke detectors shall meet the following requirements:
a. Smoke detectors shall be photoelectric, analog, addressable spot‐type devices. The detectors shall
be a plug‐in unit which mounts to a twist‐lock base. The detector shall incorporate an LED to
indicate both normal operation (pulsed light) and alarm activation (steady light).
b. The sensitivity of the individual detectors shall be readily determinable through the fire alarm
control panel. The sensitivity setting of the individual detectors shall also be adjustable through
the control panel.
c. The detectors shall fit into a base that is common with both photoelectric and thermal detectors,
and shall be compatible with other addressable detectors, addressable manual stations, and
addressable interface/control modules on the same circuit.
5. Air‐Sampling‐type – Where provided, shall meet the following requirements:
a. Air‐sampling‐type smoke detectors shall be UL listed or FM Approved as a smoke fire detector for
open area protection and special applications.
b. Air‐sampling‐type smoke detectors shall utilize laser‐based particle counting technology.
c. Air‐sampling‐type smoke detectors shall be capable of providing a minimum of four (4) individual
alarm output levels, and shall be fully adjustable across the full sensitivity range of the detector.
d. Air‐sampling‐type smoke detector control units shall be equipped with a minimum of six (6)
normally‐open contacts.
H. Field Quality Control and Acceptance Testing
1. The Contractor shall provide a qualified project superintendent for the overall management and
supervision of the work.
2. The project superintendent shall assure that adequate supervision is provided during all periods of
installation of the fire alarm system. The project superintendent and all job site supervisors shall have a
minimum of five (5) years of continuous experience in the installation of fire alarm systems of similar
scope and complexity.
3. All system smoke detectors and heat detectors shall be suitably protected against contamination up to
the time of the final acceptance tests.
4. Upon completion of the installation, the Contractor shall functionally test all of the alarm initiating
devices, supervisory devices, control devices, and notification devices for proper response and
effectiveness. A trouble condition shall be initiated at each system device to verify circuit supervision.
Operation of all annunciating devices, including the fire alarm panels, shall be verified. Testing shall
include thorough sound level measurements of audible notification devices with these tests being fully
documented by means of marked‐up drawings and forms or reports used to capture the results of each
activity.
5. The system shall be subject to inspection and acceptance by the AHJ and for the purpose of
determining that the system is in accordance with federal, state, local and specification requirements,
and applicable standards of the NFPA and other related codes.
6. The system shall be subject to inspection and acceptance by the AHJ and for the purpose of
determining that the system is in accordance with federal, state, local, and specification requirements,
and applicable standards of the NFPA and other related codes.
7. Prior to the system acceptance testing, the Contractor shall provide, in writing, certification that the
installed system is in full compliance with the design documents and all applicable codes and standards.
See Appendix C for a sample letter.
8. The Contractor shall be responsible for performing, documenting, and certifying requisite inspection
and tests in accordance with applicable codes and standards for all equipment furnished under this
specification. After testing is complete, the Contractor shall demonstrate full operational capability of
the fire alarm system, as well as full compliance with all design documents, codes and standards, to the
Engineer. The Engineer and AHJ shall be notified two weeks in advance of this testing.
9. The Contractor shall perform supplemental tests and shall render additional services in connection with
the fire alarm system, as directed, at no additional cost to the Owner. The effect of additional tests, if
any, on the delivery schedule shall be determined prior to undertaking the test.
10. In the event the acceptance test of the system results in the need for system repair or modification, the
Contractor shall demonstrate the operability of the system to the full satisfaction of the Owner and
Engineer following the completion of repairs or modification and an additional 15‐day burn‐in period.
11. In the event that the AHJ requires a separate demonstration of the operability of the system for
acceptance purposes, these additional tests shall be carried out by the Contractor without expense to
the Owner.
12. The Contractor shall conduct an independent quality assurance review of all developed AutoCAD
Version (2013 or newer) "record" drawings to assure accuracy and completeness of these drawings.
These drawings, as well as the O&M manuals and all other system documentation, shall be turned over
to the Owner/Tenant prior to the start of the final acceptance tests.
I. Reacceptance Testing – Not less than 15 days after the first inventory is received into the facility and
again not less than 15 days after completion of any expansion projects, the fire alarm system shall
undergo a full reacceptance test following the procedure outlined in paragraph 5.2(H)(4) above. The
reacceptance test shall be witnessed by Amazon’s Fire (Protection) Engineer who was responsible for
the initial and overall design of the building’s Fire & Life Safety System.
5.4 FIRE HOSE CONNECTIONS
In the context of this standard, fire hose connections are valve‐controlled outlets for the purpose of connecting
fire hoses for fire extinguishment or ‘mop‐up’. Fire hose connections may be connected to a dedicated piping
system or adjacent sprinkler system. Fire hose connection shall be sized, supplied, and located as required by
local mandates and/or the AHJ. NFPA 13, where applicable, allows hose connections to be omitted in a fully
sprinklered building where approved by the AHJ. This is the preferred approach given that Amazon Associates
are not trained firefighters and firefighting activities are better left to firefighting professionals.
Where fire hose connections are provided in storage areas and are installed on building columns, paint entire
column “safety red” where fire hose connections are located.
5.5 FIRE HYDRANTS
In the context of this standard, fire hydrants are valve‐controlled water supply connections for dedicated use by
the fire department. They are generally connected to underground water mains that may or may not be
dedicated for fire department use. Requirements for fire hydrants will vary in each jurisdiction. Provide and
install according to local requirements.
Since fire hydrants are typically exterior appurtenances, they are particularly susceptible to vehicular damage.
Where possible, hydrants shall be located to minimize the potential for vehicular damage. Where subject to
vehicular damage, hydrants shall be protected with concrete bollards, metal guard rails, or other appropriate
physical protection.
In addition, hydrants in parking lots shall be positioned so that all fire hose connections are freely accessible
with the vehicles parked in nearby parking spaces.
5.6 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Provide and install portable fire extinguishers according to local mandates. In the absence of local
requirements, follow those outlined in NFPA 10. Use the following guidelines:
A. General storage areas, break rooms, and office areas shall be equipped with dry chemical fire extinguishers
with a minimum rating of 4A:60B:C (10 lbs. nominal capacity).
B. MDF rooms, electrical rooms, and other rooms with a significant amount of electrical or electronic
equipment shall be equipped with a clean agent‐type extinguisher (e.g., Halotron, Carbon Dioxide, etc.) with
a minimum rating of 2A:10B:C (15.5 lbs. nominal capacity).
C. Mounting Arrangement – Where installed on interior walls of gypsum board construction, provide semi‐
recessed mounted fire extinguisher cabinets. Fire extinguisher shall be mounted so that the handle is not
more than 48 inches above the floor (42 inches above the floor for extinguishers weighing more than 40
lbs.).
D. Identification – Label according to local mandates. In the absence of local mandates, include pictorial
marking system complying with NFPA 10, Appendix B. On columns in storage areas with fire extinguishers,
paint 24 inches long safety red band, all four sides of column, 20 ft. above finished floor, or as required by
local mandates.
5.7 SMOKE VENTILATION/REMOVAL
Where smoke ventilation/removal are required by local regulations, especially automatic smoke and heat vents,
Amazon’s Senior Manager, Worldwide Real Estate Design, Engineering & Construction, and Risk Management
teams must be notified for a detailed review of the project and coordination with the local AHJ. A performance‐
based design approach including fire/smoke modeling and egress analysis may be needed. Automatic smoke
and heat vents are known to have a potentially detrimental impact on automatic fire sprinkler system
performance.
A. Mechanical Exhaust
1. Coordination with fire sprinklers – Fans shall be sized and located to minimize the impact of increased air
velocities at fire sprinklers. The goal shall be to limit air velocities to 5 ft./s (1.5 m/s) or less, as tested at
the sprinkler elevation.
2. Fan specification – Fans shall be listed/approved high temperature exhaust fans.
3. Fan and control wiring arrangement – Fan and control wiring shall be protected from an interior fire by
providing fire‐resistance rated cable, running the cable in a fire‐resistance rated enclosure (e.g., rated
shaft or encased in concrete), or routing the cable outside the building envelope (i.e., on the roof, walls,
or under the floor).
4. System control – The fire alarm system shall be used to control the smoke exhaust system in order to
provide an increased degree of reliability, survivability, and coordination with other associated systems
such as the fire sprinkler system.
5. Drip pans – Smoke removal fans shall have galvanized sheet metal drip pans installed beneath each fan to
protect stored merchandise from moisture damage. Drip pans shall be sized and positioned below the
exhaust fan opening to limit air velocities to 5 ft./s (1.5 m/s) or less.

Section 6 ‐ STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS
6.1 RACKING
The most common types of racking found in Amazon FCs are single‐row and double‐row racks. The protection
criteria in this standard are intended for these types of racks without solid shelving and with aisles at least 3.5 ft.
(1.1 m) wide. This also applies to racks located within pick modules or mezzanines. Where multiple‐row racks
or racks with solid shelving are installed, the designer shall consult NFPA 13 for appropriate storage limitations
and protection criteria. Use of solid shelving will typically require in‐rack sprinklers.
A. Flue spaces – Flue spaces (transverse and longitudinal) shall be maintained within storage racking to ensure
that heat from a fire has a direct vertical path to the ceiling and to allow water from ceiling level sprinklers
to penetrate into the racking and reach to seat of the fire.
Exception: Flue spaces are required vertically through the full height of the rack, including on the bottom.
However, there are some tolerable configurations that may allow more flexibility for product on the lowest
level only. Examples include corrugate dividers that are placed around quarter and half pallet loads; these
are acceptable on the lowest tier only, but if installed on upper tiers physical flue space dividers are
required. The corrugate may act as a flue space divider only if it is physically attached at the approved
dimensions within the rack and will reliably stay in place.
B. Transverse ‐ The transverse flue is the flue space that runs perpendicular to the pallet load beams and is the
space between two adjacent pallet loads or a pallet load and the adjacent rack upright. Regardless of
storage height, nominal 6 inch (150 mm) transverse flues must be provided and maintained between pallet
loads, and nominal 3 inch (75 mm) transverse flues must be provided between any pallet load and the
adjacent rack upright. Several approaches may be acceptable for maintaining transverse flue spaces and
shall be reviewed with Amazon’s Risk Management team.
Flue space dimensions may vary as the rack design varies, but in all cases, flue shall meet the minimum
guidance provided in FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet 8‐9 Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4, and
Group A Plastic Commodities, or as otherwise required by the authority having jurisdiction. Rack dimensions
and pallet dimensions vary globally, and flue spaces will vary as the rack and pallet dimensions vary.
Within EU for example, there are two standard rack width dimensions. The first, allows for the storage of
three (3) pallets on a 2.7 m (8.8 ft.) load beam and second allows for the storage of four (4) pallet on a 3.6 m
(12 ft.) wide load beam.
This design standard allows for a 75 mm (2.95 inch) wide transverse flue spaces between pallet loads that
are 800 mm (2.62 ft.) wide, and 150 mm (5.9 inch) net wide transverse flue spaces at each rack upright. Per
Risk Management, this flue spacing meets the intent of NFPA 13 and industry best practices accepted by our
property insurers for traditional pallet racking outside of the US. Flue spaces in excess of this width are
allowed and favorable; however, flue spaces that are less than 3‐inches (75 mm) or less than those specified
are not acceptable.

Section 6.1, Figure 1 (a): EU and UK Racking Detail for three (3) pallets wide

Section 6.1, Figure 1 (b): EU Racking Detail for four (4) pallets wide
This design standard allows for 3‐inch (75 mm) wide transverse flue spaces between pallet loads that are
2.62 ft. (800 mm) wide, and 6‐inch (150 mm) net wide transverse flue spaces at each rack upright. Per Risk
Management, this flue spacing meets the intent of NFPA 13 (2019 edition) and industry best practices
accepted by our property insurers for traditional pallet racking outside of the US. Flue spaces in excess of
this width are allowed and favorable; however, flue spaces that are less than those specified are not
acceptable.

Tape or other visual indicator shall be marked on the storage racks to indicate the minimum necessary flue
space area. Physical barriers to provide transverse flue spaces are not mandatory unless the nature of the
product arrangement or storage configuration (e.g., densely packed shoes, rolled carpets, etc.) inherently
impedes the flue space.

Section 6.1, Figure 2: Properly maintained transverse flue spaces
C. Longitudinal – The longitudinal flue is the flue space that runs parallel to the rack load beams and is the
space between back‐to‐back loads in a double‐row rack arrangement.
For storage [heights] up to and including 25 ft. (7.6 m) no longitudinal flue is required. For storage greater
than 25 ft. (7.6 m), a nominal 6 inch (150 mm) flue must be provided. This shall be maintained by providing
a physical barrier such as a load beam back‐stop, or other engineered solution approved by Amazon’s
Engineering and Risk Management teams.

Section 6.1, Figure 3: Longitudinal Flue space
D. Random variations in the width of flue spaces or their vertical alignment are permitted for rack storage
where product is on pallets.
E. High Density Storage – Physical barriers are required to maintain both transverse and longitudinal flue
spaces where product in storage racks is in a high‐density storage arrangement (i.e. where product is stored
directly in the rack and not on pallets). Examples include shoe storage, rainbow racking, bin‐box drawers
within pallet racks, rolled carpet etc. Flue spaces for high density storage must meet the requirements in
parts B and C, including details outlined in the Risk Management Flue Space Guide for high‐density rack
storage.
For rolled carpet storage guidelines, contact Amazon Risk Management for details.
6.2 HIGH‐PILED STORAGE PALETIZED OR ON‐FLOOR (E.G., NOT IN STORAGE RACKS)
A. Solid Piles Storage – Storage pile area, height, and volume shall be limited based on local mandates and in
many cases will be based on the particular commodities stored within a cardboard box. This would exclude
the storage of plastic totes and plastic transship bins.
Minimum 8 ft. (2.4 m) aisle shall be maintained between each storage configuration above. The floor
storage shall be arranged to provide the most direct access to the nearest building exits, i.e. perpendicular
to the nearest exterior wall.
1. Maximum pile dimension – 50 ft. (15.2 m)
2. Maximum storage height – 30 ft. (9.1 m)
3. Maximum cubic volume – 75,000 ft3 (2,124 m3)

B. Storage of Plastic Totes, Plastic Pallets and Plastic Transship Bins
Plastic totes and transship bins by themselves are considered to be an Uncartoned Unexpanded Group A
Plastic (UUP) commodity. When stored in bulk they can present a greater fire hazard. When stored at an
Amazon FC, the following four (4) considerations need to be evaluated.
1. Outdoor Storage: Store plastic totes / bins outside the FC, within the secure yard and a minimum 30 ft.
(9.0 m) away from the building, or within metal shipping containers. Minimum 8 ft. (2.4 m) aisle shall
be maintained between stack.
2. Solid Pile Storage: Store plastic totes / bins directly on the floor in piles to be no higher than 5.2 ft. (1.6
m) high, in an area no greater than 25 ft. x 25 ft. (625 ft2) or [7.6 m x 7.6 m (58 m2)]. Minimum 8 ft. (2.4
m) aisle shall be maintained between each storage configuration above. The floor storage shall be
arranged to provide the most direct access to the nearest building exits, i.e. perpendicular to the
nearest exterior wall
3. Pallet Rack Storage: When the plastic totes / bins are stored in the pallet racks, provide cardboard lids
(or covers) over the top of the plastic tote / bins. Extend cardboard lids down 3.2 ft. (1.0 m) on all four
(4) sides. Band the cardboard lids to secure them.
The totes /bins with the cardboard lids will be treated as a Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastic (CUP)
and will be properly protected with most our current fire protection designs. The fire protection
scheme for each building will need to be reviewed.
4. 3PL Warehousing: Store plastic totes bins at an off‐site third party warehouse.
6.3 SHELVING (LIBRARY SHELVING)
This type of shelving arrangement is typically not more than 8 ft. (2.4 m) in height to allow pickers and stowers
on the floor to access each shelf without a ladder, step‐stool, or other device. Shelving arrangements that are
significantly different than the ones described here may require a special assessment to determine the
appropriate protection.
A. Materials of construction – Library shelving shall be constructed of metal, with either metal or wood
shelves. Bin dividers may be of metal, plastic, wood, or cardboard.
B. Aisles between storage shelves shall not be less than 44 inches wide (3.7 ft. or 1.2 m).
C. Storage in library shelving should generally be less than 12 ft. (3.6 m), and in no case shall library shelving
exceed 15 ft. (4.5 m) in height for back‐to‐back library shelving. For shelving that is taller than 12 ft. (3.6 m)
refer to Section 6.4 for design limitations and details.
6.4 HIGH‐BAY SHELVING
Shelving arrangements which exceed 12 ft. (3.6 m) in height.
A. Materials of construction – High‐bay shelving shall be constructed of metal with either metal or wood
shelves. Shelves must be non‐perforated (i.e., solid) although small holes and other penetrations provided
for shelf and bin divider assembly are acceptable. Bin dividers may be of metal, plastic, wood, or cardboard.
Automatic sprinkler protection would be required on all most all storage shelves.
B. Aisles between storage shall not be less than 4 ft. (1.2 m).
C. Fire Protection – WARNING: Where solid shelving arrangements exceed 12 ft. (3.6 m) in height,
sprinklers will be needed under every shelf level. The requirements of such a sprinkler system are
significant. A fire protection engineer should be consulted for the overall design of the sprinkler
protection for high‐bay shelving arrangements.

6.5 PICK MODULES (PICK TOWERS) AND MEZZANINES
A. Construction – Pick Modules and Mezzanines shall be constructed of steel although decking material may be
a wood product like ResinDek. Gaps between decking materials and between decking materials and
shelving materials shall not exceed 1/8 inches (3.2 mm).
If ResinDek or similar products is used, the material should have a Flame Spread Index less than 25 and a
Smoke Development Index less than 450 (NA ‐ ASTM E84‐16, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials).
B. Solid Barriers – CRITICAL: With the exception of stair and conveyor openings, mezzanine and pick
module floors must be constructed as a continuous solid floor so that floor levels are completely
separated vertically. Where the mezzanine is rack supported or an open rack structure penetrates a
mezzanine floor, a solid barrier must be provided at each floor level to enclose the opening.
The gaps between the shelving and decking material shall be no greater than a 1/8‐inch (3.2 mm) wide,
this includes the rack uprights.
C. Draft Curtains –
1. Where Draft Curtains are not required ‐ Draft curtains are not required around the underside of
mezzanines provided the sprinklers below the mezzanine and those located at the underside of the roof
(or floor above) have the same nominal Response Time Index (RTI) – e.g., both sprinkler levels are quick
response‐type. The figures below represent scenarios where draft curtains are not required.

Section 6.4, Figure 2: Scenario for buildings with RSPs that do not require draft curtains at RSP edges.

Section 6.4, Figure 3: Scenario for buildings with Process Mezzanines that do not require draft
curtains.
2. Where Draft Curtains are required ‐ Where existing FCs are equipped with sprinklers under the
mezzanine with RTI values which differ from roof (or floor above) protection, they should be separated
by draft curtains, unless a solid beam provides an adequate barrier to heat and smoke. The figures
below represent scenarios where draft curtains are required. Where draft curtains or solid barriers at
the edge are required, they shall be of noncombustible construction (e.g., sheet metal or gypsum
board) and extend down a minimum 2 ft. (0.6 m).

Section 6.4, Figure 4: Scenarios that require draft curtains at Mezzanine and Robotic Storage Platforms (RPS)
edges.

Section 6.4, Figure 5: Scenarios that require draft curtains at Mezzanine and Process Mezzanine edges.
D. Perimeter Sprinklers – Sprinklers are not required at the edge of a pick module or mezzanine when:
1. The sprinklers below the pick module or mezzanine and those located at the roof (or floor above) have
the same nominal Response Time Index (i.e., are both quick response‐type),
OR
2. Storage will be located within the sprinkler nearest the edge of the pick module or mezzanine, and
where there is a clear aisle of at least 4 ft. (1.2 m) from the nearest edge of the mezzanine or draft
curtain.

Section 7 ‐ SPECIAL HAZARDS
See ‘Risk Guideline: Hazardous Material Product Storage’ for a field guide to assessing existing or proposed hazardous
materials storage rooms, including rooms that store flammable liquids and aerosols. This Risk Guideline provides a
summary of the requirements in Sections 7.1 and 7.2.
7.1 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Fire and building codes generally address hazardous materials (e.g., flammable/combustible liquids, corrosives,
toxics, oxidizers, etc.) by establishing risk‐based quantity limits per material classification. If the total storage
amounts are less than the quantity limits prescribed by local codes, hazardous materials may be stored in
general storage areas with certain restrictions as defined later in this section (See Sections 7.1 D and E). If the
quantity limits are exceeded, materials must be stored in a specially designed high‐hazard storage area (See
Section 7.1 F).
A. Information Required for Hazard Assessments – In order to determine if the product mix is in excess of
Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs), it is necessary for Amazon to determine and maintain an inventory
with the classification of the hazardous materials based on IFC/NFPA parameters for each hazardous
product, including:
1. IFC/NFPA hazard classification
2. Container size
3. Container types (e.g., plastic, glass, metal, etc.)
4. Other physical properties (e.g., water miscibility for flammable/combustible liquids, viscosity, etc.)
A summary of the hazardous material storage inventory shall be provided to a qualified fire protection
engineer to perform a special assessment. In the absence of a detailed inventory list, including material
classifications, conservative assumptions shall be made by the fire protection engineer, which will add to
project cost and timeline.
B. Hazard Assessment (Detailed) – The first step in establishing whether special protection is required is to
determine exactly what materials are being stored in the facility. This step primarily involves the
identification and classification of hazardous materials, as well as determining maximum storage quantities.
Additional considerations include container size and type, storage arrangement, ceiling height, and sprinkler
protection.
1. High‐hazard commodity classification – Amazon may store a wide range of consumer goods that would
be defined as hazardous in many jurisdictions. Amazon currently categorizes high‐hazard commodities
by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) definitions. Unfortunately, most building and
fire codes/standards do not use the same material classification definitions. For example, while there is
some correlation between the DOT categories and NFPA and IBC/IFC material definitions, they are not
equal. Specifically, the DOT categories are not as detailed as the NFPA and IBC/IFC material
classifications, yet it is the latter that drives the required building protection requirements. The table
below provides a comparison between DOT and IFC/NFPA classifications.

IFC/NFPA DOT NFPA Diamond Maximum Allowable

Example
Classification Classification Indicating Value Quantity (per IFC)
Class IA Flammable Specialty Solvents
3 Fire ‐ 4 60 gal
Liquids (Ethyl Ether)
Class IB Flammable 240 gal (combined with Nail Polish Remover

3 Fire ‐ 3
Liquids Class IC liquids) (Acetone)
Class IC Flammable 240 gal (combined with Paint Thinner

3 Fire ‐ 3
Liquids Class IB liquids) (Turpentine)
Class II Combustible
3 Fire ‐ 2 240 gal Diesel
Liquids
Class IIIA
3 Fire ‐ 2 660 gal Kerosene
Combustible Liquids
Cooking Oil, Oil‐
Class IIIB Combustible
None Fire ‐ 1 Unlimited Based Paint, Motor
Liquids
Oil
Class 1 Oxidizer 5.1 OX Unlimited Pool Chemicals
Class 2 Oxidizer 5.1 OX 500 lbs. Pool Chemicals
Class 3 Oxidizer 5.1 OX 20 lbs. Pool Chemicals
Hydrogen peroxide
Class 4 Oxidizer 5.1 OX 1 lb.
(>91%)
Toxic 6.1 Health ‐ 2 1,000 lbs. Pesticides
Highly Toxic 6.1 Health ‐ 4 20 lbs. Pesticides
Corrosive 8 Health ‐ 3 or COR 5,000 lbs. Concentrated Bleach
Section 7.1, Table 1. Comparison of IFC and DOT classifications of hazardous materials.2
2. Container Size – Containers will generally be less than 1 gallon (3.8 liters) although larger containers
may be encountered. It should be noted that Amazon currently only tracks and reports sizes of
packages within which materials are shipped and stored (i.e., outer carton dimensions). However, the
actual quantities of hazardous materials must be determined by the volume or weight of the container
within which the hazardous material only is stored.

2 Note that aerosol storage is covered in Section 7.2 due to differences in the protection requirements.
Example: If a kit product, such as a shaver kit or first aid kit, contains a flammable liquid such as
Isopropyl Alcohol cleaner, only the volume of the flammable liquid (and not the entire kit) should be
determine.
3. Container Type – Containers will be a mix of metal, glass, and plastic. Metal containers shall be
considered to be non‐relieving style. The container types of the flammable and combustible liquids
have a major impact on protection requirements.
4. Other Physical Properties (water miscibility, viscosity, etc.) – In some cases, the physical attributes of
the material will affect the level of hazard and thus the required level of protection. The fire protection
professional should evaluate the hazards based on miscibility with water, viscosity, and – in the case of
toxic/corrosive materials – the route of entry and form of the material.
5. Storage Arrangement – Storage will either be shelf storage (e.g., ‘library’ shelving) or in some instances,
rack storage. Shelf storage is typically 8 ft. (2.4 m) tall whereas rack heights will vary depending on the
ceiling height. The design professional shall confirm the anticipated storage height and storage
arrangement. The storage arrangement will have to be coordinated with the design of the fire
protection systems since fire sprinkler design criteria is heavily dependent on storage heights and
arrangement.
6. Special Circumstances – It may assist the design professional to know that the large majority of
products Amazon sells are consumer goods that are commonly found in the grocery store and other
mercantile facilities. The small container size and dilute concentration inherent to such products
presents a reduced hazard which is recognized by some codes and standards.
For example, the provisions of NFPA 30 related to the storage of flammable and combustible liquids in
containers are not applicable to the following:
“Medicines, foodstuffs, cosmetics, and other consumer products that contain no more than 50 percent
by volume of water‐miscible flammable or combustible liquids, with the remainder of the product
consisting of components that do not burn and where packaged in individual containers that do not
exceed 1.3 gallon (5 L) capacity” [NFPA 30: 9.1.4(4)].”
This exception could also apply to many of the materials found on Amazon’s hazardous material
inventory statement. However, until appropriate classifications can be provided by Amazon, the design
professional must be conservative and follow applicable codes and standards.
The recommendation is that a detailed hazardous materials inventory should be developed and all
hazardous materials be classified according to IFC/NFPA material classifications. This will allow some
products that are currently misclassified as hazardous materials to be reclassified as non‐hazardous.
More importantly, it will help to ensure that potentially dangerous goods are not stored in the general
purpose warehousing areas where they may not be adequately protected.
C. General Storage – If the material quantities do not exceed the Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQ) limits,
then hazardous materials can be stored in general storage with a few restrictions (listed below). If the
volumes exceed the MAQ volumes, then NFPA 30 (2012), Chapter 12 shall be used as a baseline for the
evaluation.
1. Incompatible Materials
a. Certain materials cannot be stored in close proximity based on container size and material type.
Generally, separation distances of 20 ft. (6.1 m) between incompatible materials will provide
sufficient separation. For example, oxidizers cannot be stored within 20 ft. (6.1 m) of flammable or
combustible liquids, and certain corrosive acids cannot be stored near some oxidizers. Alternately,
a non‐combustible partition extending 18” beyond the storage boundaries can be used to achieve
the separation.
b. SDS (or MSDS) shall be consulted for compatibility guidelines; however, some jurisdictions will
require separation requirements based on material classification alone. Refer to ‘Risk Guide:
Hazardous Materials Storage & Segregation’ for a summary of incompatible materials and typical
segregation requirements. The Risk Guide provides a general representation of incompatible
products, but is not comprehensive. Consult Asset Risk Management and Dangerous Goods teams.
2. Sprinkler Protection – Sprinkler protection adequate for protection of high‐piled or high‐rack storage
of Cartoned Unexpanded Group A Plastics (CUP) is generally considered adequate to protect quantities
up to the MAQ of hazardous materials in general storage areas.
If sprinkler protection is not adequate in general storage areas, then the sprinklers must be
upgraded, or the quantities of hazardous materials reduced to less than half of the allowable MAQ
noted in this standard. Contact Asset Risk Management, or a licensed Fire Protection Engineer to
conduct an analysis.
D. Fire‐Rated Cabinet(s) – For small quantities of flammable or combustible liquids, or other hazardous
materials, up to twice the MAQ, fire‐rated cabinets can be used for storage. Incompatible materials shall not
be stored within the same cabinet, but may be stored in adjacent cabinets. Signage should be provided on
the doors used to identify the type of storage (flammable, oxidizers, aerosols, etc.).
The number of cabinets will depend on the amount of storage needed, and is generally governed by local
fire codes and/or Authorities Having Jurisdiction. Asset Risk Management recommends that the number of
storage cabinets shall not exceed eight (8) within a code‐defined fire area, without advance approval by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. Cabinets shall be FM Approved.
Refer to ‘Risk Guide: Hazardous Materials Storage & Segregation’ for a summary of incompatible materials
and typical segregation requirements. The Risk Guide provides a general representation of incompatible
products, but is not comprehensive. Consult Asset Risk Management and Dangerous Goods teams.

Section 7.1, Photo 1: Typical fire‐rated cabinet for storage of flammable liquids or other hazardous
materials.

E. Hazardous Material Locker – Where quantities exceed the MAQ, some situations will allow storage lockers
to be used in place of building a hazardous material storage room. While lockers are preferable to building
a hazardous storage room, they normally require special approval of the local authorities.

Section 7.1, Photo 2: Typical Hazardous Material Storage Locker
1. Size and Location Limitations – Lockers are restricted to a 1,500 ft² (140 m2) aggregate footprint size
limit. The number of lockers are limited to four (4) or less within a building. The lockers shall be limited
to the ground floor of the FCs and are not permitted to be stacked on top of one another. When
located outdoors, care shall be taken in choosing a location that maintains proper separation from
buildings, public ways, and property lines.
2. Sprinkler Protection – The minimum recommended protection 0.40 gpm/ft² [16.3 mm/min]) over 1,500
ft² (140 m2) or the area of the locker (EH Group 2 design density).
3. Construction – The locker shall be constructed to at least meet a fire rating of 2 hr. that is
listed/approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., FM, UL, ULC, JFEII, VdS, LPCB, TFRI,
etc.).
4. Secondary Containment – Secondary containment is achievable through sumps or drainage. The
secondary containment shall generally meet the same requirements as the high‐hazard room, but the
design area will typically cover the entire floor area of the locker.
5. Ventilation – Ventilation shall follow the same requirements specified for the high‐hazard storage
room. Since the ventilation would need to exhaust to the outside, lockers shall be sited outdoors or
near an exterior wall.
6. Electrical Classification – Inside the lockers, the area classification shall be Class 1 Division 2 and the
area classification shall extend in a 5 ft. (1.5 m) radius at all doors or openings.
7. Signage – Entrances into hazardous material lockers shall feature visible hazard identification, as shown
in Section 7.1, Figure 1.
F. Dedicated High‐Hazard Storage FCs or Hazmat Storage Room(s)
1. Dedicated Hazmat Storage Buildings –Design of a dedicated hazmat FC will require coordination with a
licensed Fire Protection Engineer. Most designs will require alternate methods to be presented to the
local building/fire officials. Permitting can add up to six additional months to the project timeline.
Required design concepts are similar to listed in subparagraph 2, below (Hazmat Storage Room(s)).
Follow local regulatory size limitations for dedicated Hazmat Storage Buildings. IBC has area limitations
for various construction types. The desired building size may require a more cost intensive construction
type (i.e. Type I‐A). However, this is dependent on the overall building size, construction type,
occupancy classification and clear space (frontage) around the building. An assessment must be
conducted on a case‐by‐case basis.
2. Hazmat Storage Room(s) ‐ If it is not possible to reduce amounts below the MAQ, then the design
professional shall consider a means of providing a separate storage area for high‐hazard materials to
satisfy local regulatory requirements.
Follow local regulatory size limitations for the high‐hazard rooms. Under IBC and IFC the room size will
generally be limited to 17,500 ft² (1,626 m²) in a building of Type II‐B (noncombustible) construction or
16,250 ft² (1,510 m²) in a building of Type III‐B (combustible roof). However, this is dependent on the
overall building size, construction type, and clear space (frontage) around the building. An assessment
must be conducted on a case‐by‐case basis.
a. Location – High‐hazard rooms shall be located along an exterior wall. The room is to be located on
a corner of the building so that at least 25 percent of the room is on an outside wall.
b. Construction Requirements – Follow local regulatory construction requirements for high hazard
rooms. Materials of construction shall be noncombustible. At a minimum, the room shall be
separated from the remainder of the facility with 2‐hour fire resistance rated construction.
c. Gypsum board and metal panel wall assemblies are acceptable means of fire separation as long as
the assembly is listed/approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., FM, UL, ULC,
JFEII, VdS, LPCB, TFRI, etc.). Refer to the Worldwide Real Estate Design Standard (Architectural)
Worldwide Standard for specific layout and architectural design requirements.
d. Ceiling Height Limitations – Ceiling height plays an important role in the ability of the ceiling level
fire sprinklers to control a fire involving flammable and combustible liquids. The full scale fire
testing conducted to date has been limited to ceiling heights not exceeding 30 ft. (9.1 m);
therefore, ceiling heights in high‐hazard rooms shall be limited to 30 ft. (9.1 m) or less.
Where the facility is constructed with a roof deck exceeding 30 ft. (9.1 m), a noncombustible drop
ceiling shall be installed. An alternate approach may be to locate the high hazard room below a
mezzanine. Any solution for roof heights above 30 ft. (9.1 m) must be designed by a licensed fire
protection engineer.
e. Fire Sprinkler Protection Requirements – Due to the variations of roof heights in our FCs and overall
storage arrangements, the fire protection schemes for the storage room shall be supplemented
with an AFFF foam‐water sprinkler system. The variations in product type, flash points of the
flammable / combustible liquids, different types of containers [glass / metal] and other physical
properties.
f. Fire sprinkler protection is required in all high hazard rooms. ESFR sprinkler protection is generally
not suited for high‐hazard rooms unless the room is smaller than the equivalent design area of the
system (i.e., typically 1,200 ft² [112 m²]). The criteria for the fire sprinkler protection in the high‐
hazard room shall be based on a hazard assessment conducted by a licensed fire protection
engineer.
For rooms over 1,200 ft² [112 m²], the design criteria for the fire sprinkler protection in the high‐
hazard room shall be based on a hazard assessment conducted by a licensed fire protection
engineer. The minimum sprinkler design is 0.40 gpm/ft² over the most remote 2,500 ft² (16.3
mm/min over the most remote 232 m²). The sprinkler design is based on an NFPA 13, EH Group 2
design density.
g. Special Fire Alarm and Detection Requirements / Emergency Alarm System – A manual emergency
alarm system shall be provided for each high‐hazard room. The emergency alarm system shall
consist of manual pull stations outside each door leading into the high‐hazard room that will result
in sounding a distinct local alarm upon activation. One way to satisfy the notification requirement
is by placing a horn or bell at each door location where a manual pull station has been installed.
Where oxidizers are included in the inventory, this area shall be provided with an approved
supervised smoke detection system.
3. Spill Control, Containment, and Drainage – Spill control and containment shall be provided in high‐
hazard storage rooms storing high‐hazard materials as follows:
a. Liquids in individual containers exceeding 55 gallons (208 L), or in which the aggregate capacity
stored in multiple containers exceeds 1,000 gallons (3,785 L).
b. Solids in individual containers exceeding 550 pounds (250 kg), or in which the aggregate capacity
stored in multiple containers exceeds 10,000 pounds (4,540 kg).
c. Floors in the high‐hazard storage room shall be noncombustible (except material compatible
surfacing) and shall be liquid‐tight with raised or recessed curbs, sills, or dikes provided to control
spills and prevent the flow of liquids to adjacent areas. It should be noted that separate
containment areas may be required for incompatible materials.
An engineered drainage system meeting local requirements is also permitted. The secondary
containment system shall be designed to contain a spill from the largest container plus 20 minutes
of fire sprinkler water flow. For example, in a 5,000 ft² (460 m²) room storing flammable liquids
with a maximum container size of 100 gallons (378 L), and with a sprinkler system design of 0.40
gpm/ft² over 2,500 ft² (16.3 mm over 232 m²), the curb height is calculated as follows,

The room would need to be designed to contain at least 20,100 gallons, so given 5,000 ft² of
area the curb height can be calculated as follows,

Therefore, the curb would need to be at least 6.5 inches tall to satisfy the secondary containment
requirements. Where AFFF Foam‐Water Sprinkler System(s) are provided, volume of the foam
concentrate and its expansion ratio should be included in the volumetric calculation of the total
discharge.
4. Ventilation – A hazardous atmosphere is not expected to develop in an Amazon high‐hazard storage
room even in the event of a container spill/release. . However, the codes enforced in many
jurisdictions will require installation of low‐level mechanical exhaust ventilation. Where required,
design and install according to local requirements. The guidelines below follow what is required by the
IBC/IFC:
a. Ventilation rate shall be a rate of not less than 1 cfm per square foot (0.00508 m3/s per square
meter) of floor area.
b. The ventilation system shall operate continuously. Supervise the ventilation system status on the
building management system, where provided.
c. An approved manual shutoff shall be provided outside of the exhausted area in an approved
location.
d. Exhaust shall be taken from one or more points within 12 inches (305 mm) of the floor and from
within 12 inches (305 mm) of the highest point in the room.
e. The location of the exhaust and inlets shall be placed such that continuous air movement is
achieved through all areas.
f. Exhaust ventilation shall not be recirculated within the room.
g. Ventilation shall be continuous and connected to either standby or emergency power.
5. Electrical Equipment – High‐hazard storage rooms shall be classified as ‘Ordinary’. Ordinary electrical
equipment is generally permitted in high‐hazard storage areas since the materials are stored in small
closed containers and hazardous atmospheres are not expected to develop, especially where
continuous mechanical exhaust ventilation is provided [NFPA 30 (2012 Edition), Table 7.3.3].
6. Signage – Entrances into hazardous material storage areas shall feature visible hazard identification, an
example is show below in Section 7.1, Figure 1. These areas can include
a. On all interior and exterior doors to hazmat rooms and possibly aerosol cages
b. On the outside of hazardous waste cages and the nearest exterior door (for fire department
ingress)
c. On generator tanks and/or doors to the generator room where fuel is stored in either a belly tank
or larger tank
d. On the fire pump fuel tank and/or the interior and exteriors doors to the fire pump/tank room
e. At security gate(s) and entrances to the truck yard, where a site has any hazards on‐site requiring
labeling
f. Two signs on the building exterior or perimeter fence, if not already included above.

Section 7.1, Figure 1: Example hazard identification diamond; actual signs would feature the number/ letter
codes for the material.

7.2 AEROSOLS
The protection of aerosols differs from other hazardous materials and is handled separately in this section. As
with other hazardous materials, a method of establishing risk‐based quantity limits per aerosol classification
applies. If the total storage amounts are less than the quantity limits prescribed by local codes, hazardous
materials may be stored in general storage areas with certain restrictions as defined later in this section (See
Section 7.2 B), or within hazardous material lockers or cabinets (See sections 7.1 D and E). If the quantity limits
are exceeded, materials must be stored in a specially designed storage area (See Section 7.2 C).
A. Aerosol Classification and Storage Limits – Aerosols are classified into three sub‐groups by the heat of
combustion of their propellants. The table below provides classification criteria and limits for aerosols
storage:
Due to the difficulty in determining the exact classification of the wide array of products distributed by
Amazon, and difficulty in obtaining heats of combustion, it is recommended that the design professional
conservatively assume that all aerosols are Level 3. In cases where the quantities are very close to a
threshold storage quantity, a closer look may be warranted.
Chain Link Fence
Chemical Heat of
Aerosols General Storage Separation or Aerosol Separate Room
Combustion Limit
Cage
Level 1 <8,600 Btu/lbs. Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited
>8,600 Btu/lbs.
Level 2 2,500 lbs. Unlimited Unlimited
<13,000 Btu/lbs.
Level 3 >13,000 Btu/lbs. 1,000 lbs. Unlimited Unlimited
Combined
Not Applicable 2,500 lbs. Unlimited Unlimited
Level 2 & 3
Section 7.2, Table 1: Aerosol classification criteria and storage quantity limits.
B. General Storage – When quantity limits are below the above listed amounts, aerosols are permitted to be
stored within general warehouse storage without additional prevention methods.
C. Segregated Storage – When larger quantities of materials are required, separation must be achieved either
through chain link fencing or through separation walls.
1. Quantity Limits – Amounts are limited only by storage area limits.
2. Combustible Storage – Storage of commodities with a hazard greater than Class III shall not be stored
within the segregated storage. If the aerosol storage area is separated by a chain link fence, storage
containing commodities classified greater than Class III shall be kept at least 8 ft. (2.4 m) from the chain
link fence enclosure.
3. Ceiling Height Limitations – Ceiling height plays an important role in the ability of the ceiling level fire
sprinklers to control a fire involving Level 2 and Level 3 aerosols. The full scale fire testing conducted to
date has been limited to ceiling heights not exceeding 30 ft. (9.1 m); therefore, ceiling heights in high‐
hazard rooms shall be limited to 30 ft. (9.1 m) or less.
Where the facility is constructed with a peak roof height exceeding 30 ft. (9.1 m), a standalone aerosol
cage with a noncombustible ceiling shall be installed. An alternate approach may be to store the
aerosols under a structural mezzanine or in segregated rooms.
The ceiling heights of standalone aerosol cage with needs to be limited to 10 ft. (3.0 m) or less (using a
typical configuration of 7 ft. 8 inch (2.3 m) library shelving.

Section 7.2, Aerosol Cage
4. Sprinkler Protection – Sprinkler protection is required in segregated aerosol storage areas and must
comply with NFPA 30B. The fire protection design must be determined by a licensed Fire Protection
Engineer or qualified professional for the proposed storage. There are protection schemes for both
conventional and ESFR sprinkler systems, however, designs only exist only for ceilings under 30 ft. (9.1
m), as described above (except for NFPA 30B Design Scheme A for racking which features in‐rack
sprinklers and solid‐barriers).
A licensed Fire Protection Engineer must be hired to evaluate the proposed aerosol storage area and a
permit from the AHJ is needed.
When the aerosols cage is located underneath existing Pick Mods with ceiling heights of 10 ft. (3.0 m) or
less (using a typical configuration of 7 ft. 8 inch (2.3 m) library shelving with 8 storage levels), the fire
protection design for the aerosol cages will be 15 sprinklers at 75‐psi (5.1 bar) using K11.2 (K160)
ordinary temperature sprinkler [NFPA 30B]. The hydraulic design calculations shall include 500 gpm for
outside hose demands.
5. Construction – Segregated storage areas can be constructed with either a chain link fence or rated wall
construction, as described below. In some cases, a hazardous material storage locker could be used
with approval from the local authorities.
A mandatory onsite evaluation is required for the storage of aerosol by a licensed Fire Protection
Engineer. This evaluation also includes reviewing the egress for the storage areas and of the facility.
Designs and installations of any segregated rooms and/or aerosols cages must be reviewed and
approved by EH&S, Risk Management, and Regional Engineering before final acceptance and operations
Go Live.
a. Segregated Room –The interior walls must be either 1 hr. or 2 hr. rated construction. The walls
must be continuous from the floor to the ceiling. Any doors used for egress, must be rated of 3/4
hr. for 1 hr. assembly or 1.5 hrs. for 2 hr. rated assembly or as required by the AHJ [NFPA 30B]. The
IFC allows for 3 hr. rated construction in addition to the 1 and 2 hr. options.
The total area of the enclosure is limited to 20 percent building area to a maximum of 30,000 ft²
(2,787 m2) when separated with 1 hr. rated walls. The area is limited to 25 percent building area to
a maximum of 40,000 ft² (3,716 m2) when separated with 2 hr. rated walls. Per the IFC, the area is
limited to 30 percent building area to a maximum of 50,000 ft. ft² (4,645 m2) when separated with
3 hr. rated walls.
Since the stow practice will vary and classification of aerosols will be mixed between all levels
(Levels 1, 2, and 3), the storage of the aerosols must be treated as Level 3 (most restrictive). Pick
may occur from the ground level of the pallet racking, if this practices occurs, the aerosols shall be
treated as an Uncartoned Level 3.
The fire protection requirements for the rack storage of Level 3 aerosols are addressed NFPA 30B,
Tables 6.3.2.7 (k) and (l) [2011 edition]. In‐rack sprinkler protection is required for rack storage
configurations.
The fire protection requirements for floor storage of Level 3 aerosols are addressed in NFPA 30B,
Tables 6.3.2.7(a) and (b). Floor storage up to 5.2 ft. (1.6 m) can be treated as a palletized or solid
pile, Cartoned Level 3.
Shelf storage of aerosols of any level is not covered in NFPA 30B. As stated in 7.2.C.4 above, a
licensed Fire Protection Engineer is required to review and determine the sprinkler protection for
this arrangement.
A minimum of two (2) exits must be provided for egress from the segregated room. The egress
doors are to be self‐closing and latching.
Openings in the rated walls shall be protected with self‐closing or automatic‐closing fire doors. Fire
doors are to be configured to close on a water flow alarm from the building fire alarm panel.
b. Aerosol Cage – A segregated area can be constructed using chain link fence be no lighter than 9‐
gauge steel wire woven into a 2 inch (50 mm) diamond mesh extending from the floor to the ceiling
of the level above and meets the following criteria.
(1) Fencing must fully enclose aerosol storage area with no gaps or exposures to the outside of the
aerosol area. Any gaps in fencing shall not be greater than 2 inch (50 mm) of tolerance.
(2) Fencing designs must accommodate maintenance access to specific areas including conveyor
drives electrical panels and critical control equipment for the conveyors. Fencing must span
under conveyors to ensure a total enclosure.
(3) Conveyor entries and exits into cage must be protected by a “labyrinth” configuration. The
labyrinth is designed to prevent damaged aerosols from being able to escape the aerosol cage.
Labyrinth is defined as a four (4) sided fencing enclosure spanning 15 ft. (4.5 m) on each side of
the aerosol outbound drop off. The labyrinth includes cutouts (2 ft. clear height from top of
roller [0.6 m]) for totes to flow through the aerosol cage.
(4) All openings in the ceiling area must be sealed to prevent the aerosol from leaving the aerosol
cage.
(5) Storage of commodities with a hazard greater than Class III shall be kept outside the
segregation area and at least 8 ft. (2.4 m) from a chain link fence segregation.
(6) Ceiling sprinkler design must extend 20 ft. (6.1 m) beyond the segregated area.
(7) Two exits must be provided to the chain link enclosure.
(8) Exits must feature a self‐closing or automatic‐closing gate or be protected by a labyrinth
arrangement.
(9) The segregated area cannot exceed 20 percent of the total warehouse area, up to a maximum
size of 20,000 ft² (1,858 m2).


Section 7.2, Examples Aerosol Cages Fencing and Stow Spur Layouts

Photos of Conveyor Openings Floor Egress Stairs

An example fencing around Tote Spur An example of fencing around the perimeter

7.3 HANGING GARMENTS (Garments on Hangers [GOH])
Hanging garments can present an increased fire risk over other commodities. It may require specialized
protection when stored in certain storage configurations. The preferred storage practice is to store GOH under a
Pick Mod (Pick Tower) or mezzanine. See Section 7.1, Figure 1 for an example of storage arrangements.

Section 7.1, Figure 1. Typical garment hanging arrangement under a Pick Mode.
1 When the GOH is stored under a Pick Mod(s) or Mezzanine(s), the sprinkler systems shall be designed as an
Extra Hazard Group II with a sprinkler design density of 0.40 gpm/ft² (16.3 mm/min) over the most remote
2,500 ft² (232 m2). This sprinkler design is based on a Pick Mod height of 15 ft. (4 m) or less.
Alternate design options can be reviewed for dedicated GOH Apparel sites, contact Risk Management.
Note: When the height of the Pick Mod or Mezzanine exceeds 15 ft. (4.5 m) and/or storage height is
greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m), refer to NFPA 13 (2019) Section 21.3, Tables 21.3.3 (a) and (b), Column
E for additional sprinkler protection requirements.
2 GOH floor storage under peak roof heights below 45 ft., (13.7 m) will require ceiling protection based on
twelve (12) K22 (K320) or K25 (K360) sprinklers designed to discharge at the listed operating pressure for
that ceiling height, but not to be less than 50 psi. Rows cannot be longer than 50 ft. (15.2 m) without a
minimum 4 ft. (1.3 m) break in storage. The maximum storage height is limited to 5 ft. (1.5 m) high.
3 GOH rack storage under peak roof heights above 45 ft., (13.7 m) will require in‐rack sprinkler protection,
solid barriers and review by Risk Management.

7.4 IDLE PALLET STORAGE
Idle pallets present a significant fire risk when stacked in piles. The stacked arrangement is ideal for fast fire
spread and high heat release, therefore special considerations must be made for the storage.
A. Storage Conditions – when stored in piles in the main warehouse, idle pallets should follow the criteria
listed below:
1. Floor Storage
a. Pile size cannot exceed 1,500 ft2 (120 m2).
b. Aisle widths must be at least 8 ft. (2.4 m) on all sides.
c. Pile storage is permitted to be adjacent to a noncombustible wall, otherwise an aisle must be
provided.
d. Pile heights should generally not exceed 8 ft. (2.4 m) for pallets of any type. Pile heights that
exceed 8 ft. (2.4 m) should be reviewed by Amazon Risk Management or a fire protection
consultant to determine the minimum necessary sprinkler design.
2. Rack Storage – Storage of idle pallets in racking should be avoided as this further increases the fire
severity and is difficult to protect. If rack storage cannot be avoided, a fire protection engineer should
be consulted for the best way to protect the idle pallets.
B. Sprinkler Protection
1. Where warehouse ceiling is 40 ft. (12.1 m) or less – idle pallets can be protected adequately by the
ceiling sprinkler system if designed in accordance with this standard.
2. Where warehouse ceiling is greater than 40 ft. (12.1 m) – idle pallets shall be stored on the floor under
mezzanine areas or outdoors.
3. Idle pallets should not be stored in un‐sprinklered areas. Where the FC does not have sprinkler
protection, pallets should be stored outdoors in accordance with 7.4 C. Outdoor Idle Pallet Storage.
C. Outdoor Idle Pallet Storage – Store idle pallets a minimum of 20 ft. (6 m) from the building in stacks of 50
pallets or less. Individual stacks shall be limited to 15 ft. (4.6 m) in height, and separate by 8 ft. (2.4 m) or
greater. Refer to NFPA 1 “Fire Code” Section 34.10 for additional guidance, or FM Global Data Sheet 8‐24.
7.5 RUBBER TIRE STORAGE
The storage of rubber tires presents a significant fire hazard and requires special consideration with regard to
storage arrangements and protection.
A. Storage Conditions
1. Where ceiling height is 40 ft. (12.2 m) or less, rubber tires can be stored on‐side in palletized portable
racks up to a height of 25 ft. (7.6 m).
2. Where ceiling height exceeds 40 ft. (12.2 m), special in‐rack sprinkler protection may be required.
3. Pile size cannot exceed 25 ft. (7.6 m) in the direction of the wheel hole when stored on‐tread.
B. Sprinkler Protection
1. Where ESFR sprinklers are provided, rubber tires can be adequately protected by a ceiling only
protection scheme.
2. Where standard sprinklers are provided, the tire storage will require in‐rack sprinklers.
3. Rubber tires shall not be stored in un‐sprinklered areas. Where the FC does not have sprinkler
protection, outdoor storage options should be explored.
7.6 COMPUTER ROOMS (I.E., MDF ROOMS)
A. Fire Sprinkler Protection
1. Double‐interlock, pneumatic/electric sprinkler system utilizing a pneumatic actuator in series with an
electric solenoid valve connected to a listed releasing control panel.
2. Supervised normally‐open control valve in the system riser immediately downstream of the pre‐action
valve and check valve to facilitate full‐flow trip testing of the pre‐action valve without flooding the
system piping.
3. Piping material – Shall be of Schedule 40 steel pipe.
4. Piping and riser restraint – Regardless of seismic region, computer room fire sprinkler systems will
require bracing as follows:
a. The top of risers longer than 3 ft. (1 m) in length shall be provided with four‐way bracing spaced
not more than 25 ft. (7.6 m) apart.
b. Each run of pipe between changes in direction shall be provided with both lateral and longitudinal
bracing.
c. The last length of pipe at the end of a feed or cross main shall be provided with lateral bracing.
d. Lateral sway bracing shall be provided on all feeds and cross mains regardless of size, and all
branch lines with a piping diameter greater than 2 ½ in (65 mm). Distance between bracing shall
not exceed 40 ft. (12.2 m).
e. Hanger rods shall not be considered as seismic bracing components on fire systems protection in
the MDF room.
B. Detection – Utilize photoelectric spot‐type smoke detectors on the ceiling spaced at 125 ft² (11.6 m2) per
detector. Utilize air sampling type smoke detection for early warning where there is a cost savings.
C. Emergency Power Off (“EPO”) – Provide a relay for connection to the Owner provided EPO switch. The
intent is to ensure that equipment is de‐energized prior to water discharge.
D. Releasing Control – An intelligent/addressable pre‐action Releasing Control Panel (RCP) shall be provided to
monitor the pre‐action system initiating devices, including waterflow and valve tamper switches for the
MDF Room pre‐action fire sprinkler system, and spot‐type photoelectric smoke detectors or air‐sampling
detection where used. The RCP shall be located in the MDF room.
E. Ventilation/Hydrogen Detection – Provide continuous ventilation with the proper volume of air changes per
IFC Section 608.6 (2012 Edition). The mechanical ventilation system shall be supervised by the building
management system, but not the building fire alarm panel. Hydrogen detection is not required if
continuous ventilation is provided per the IFC.

7.7 BATTERY CHARGING AREAS
A. The hazard of battery charging stations arises from the off‐gas generated by batteries while
charging/discharging. In order for a true hazard to exist, the off‐gas must be capable of aggregating in an
enclosed volume over time. Therefore, the most effective means of mitigation is to provide either dilution
by air circulation or dilution by locating charging operations in large volumes with natural convection.
B. Ventilation
1. Flooded lead‐acid, flooded Ni‐Cd and VRLA type battery charging stations require ventilation when
installed within small rooms separated from the main warehouse. Where required, ventilation should
be provided to dilute any off‐gas generation by a factor of 100.
2. Lithium‐ion, and lithium metal polymer batteries do not require ventilation regardless of location.
C. Spill Control Kits – Shall be provided in battery charging areas containing flooded lead‐acid or Ni‐Cd
batteries with free flowing electrolyte. The spill control kits should be capable of neutralizing a spill from
the largest single battery.
D. Explosion Protection – Where ventilation is provided or where lithium‐ion and other sealed type batteries
are charged, explosion protection is not required. Where battery charging stations are located in the main
warehouse, explosion protection is not required.
7.8 CONVEYORS
A. Where buildings are fully sprinklered, the activation of a fire alarm is not required to shutdown conveyers
which handle only small packages and do not interface with the ASRS‐type storage arrangements. However,
conveyors which transfer materials between fire compartments or between buildings must still be shut
down on activation of a waterflow alarm device within the associated building.
B. Where buildings are not sprinklered, activation of a fire alarm is required to be interlocked to shut down
conveyor systems in the facility.
C. Waste Cardboard Conveyors (Balers) – Regardless of facility protection, all waste cardboard conveyors are
required to shut down. For buildings that have automatic sprinkler protection, the conveyor shall shut
down on activation of a waterflow alarm via interlocks.
For buildings that have do not have automatic sprinkler protection, the conveyor shall shut down on
activation of the buildings fire alarm system via interlocks.
D. Conveyor Bridges (Tunnels) between Buildings
1. Provide interlocks on any conveyors when the conveyors are interconnected between two or more
buildings. These interlocks are to shut down the conveyor(s) upon activation of the buildings fire alarm
system triggered by a waterflow switch. Provide a 15 second time delay to the conveyor shutdown
sequence. The 15 second delay allows the packages to clear the fire doors.
2. Provide fire doors at each end of the conveyor tunnel where the conveyor(s) enters the building.
Activation of the buildings fire alarm panel via waterflow switch shall only release the fire door for the
respective building. Fusible links are required on each side of the opening per NFPA 80.
3. When required by the fire protection consultant and/or local code, provide sprinklers in the conveyor
tunnels using a dry‐pipe sprinkler system.
7.9 Hydrogen Powered Equipment
Details and requirements for the Hydrogen dispensing stations and PIT equipment can be found in Appendix
F, Hydrogen Fueled Cell Pit Fire Protection.

Section 8 ‐ INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
8.1 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS, GENERAL
Fire protection systems must be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with the local jurisdiction and
codes. The U.S. national code governing water‐based fire protection systems is NFPA 25 Inspection, Testing, and
Maintenance of Water‐Based Fire Protection Systems. The national code governing fire alarms systems is NFPA
72, The Fire Alarm Code. NFPA 25 and NFPA 72 are the standards adopted by Amazon for fire systems
maintenance within North America, and is a good basis for establishing programs internationally, unless more
restrictive jurisdictional requirements apply. In no case shall maintenance practices be less than described in
this standard.
A. Frequency – Testing frequencies shall correlate with Appendix D.
B. Impairments – If an impairment is identified during a normal fire system inspection, follow procedures
outlined in Amazon’s Fire Protection Impairment Management program, including prompt notification
through the Amazon Impairment SharePoint site. For more information on Amazon’s Fire System
Impairment Management program, see the Risk Management Fire System Impairment Information Site.
C. Records – The facilities department shall have responsibility to review all fire systems records and ensure
any issues requiring correction are addressed and documented. For alarm tests and inspections, request a
copy of the central station “Activity Report” or “Event History Log” to ensure all device alarms were properly
transmitted to the central station monitoring the site. The Facilities Manager or designee shall review all
test documents for deficiencies BEFORE the contractor leaves the site. Any deficiencies that cannot be
corrected during the inspection must be evaluated and a resolution plan developed.
All inspections shall be documented and kept on file for review, including at least one year’s worth of paper
copies kept on‐site and electronic copies of all relevant historical records. Maintain electronic copies of
inspection records and reports on Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system. For locations where EAM is
not available, maintain electronic records on a designated document repository drive.
8.2 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
A. Inspections
1. Monthly
a. Sprinkler system risers – Verify they are free of physical damage, accessible, and that there are no
materials within 36 inches (1 m).
b. Control valves – Confirm all sprinkler control valves are locked (or supervised where the landlord or
jurisdiction does not allow locks). Verify the valve is in the fully open position, accessible, provided
with appropriate wrenches free of external leaks, and identified properly.
NOTE: If the valves are not locked, valve inspections are required weekly (per NFPA).
c. Graphic map – Assure that the sprinkler system graphic map is posted.
d. Alarm devices (i.e., waterflow switches) – Make sure they are free of physical damage and the
electrical connections are secure.
2. Quarterly
a. Fire department connection – Verify it is visible and accessible, couplings rotate smoothly, gaskets and
caps are in place, identification sign is provided, check valve is not leaking, and automatic drain valve
operates.
b. Dry and pre‐action valves – Verify priming water adequately covers the valve seat.
c. Alarm devices – Verify they are free of physical damage.
d. Pipes, fittings, and supports – Verify they are free of physical damage, corrosion, and missing pieces.
e. Building – Verify that no portion of the building exposes water‐filled pipe to temperatures less than
40oF (4oC).
3. Annually
a. Pipes, fittings, and supports – Verify they are in good physical condition and without leakage,
corrosion, or misalignment. The piping shall not be exposed to any external loads by materials either
resting or hanging on the pipe. Verify free of physical damage, corrosion, missing pieces.
b. Spare sprinklers – Verify proper number and type available, including sprinkler wrench.
c. Sprinklers – Verify physical condition is good. Replace when painted, corroded, loaded, or damaged.
d. Pressure reducing and relief valves – Verify the PRV’s on sprinkler systems, hose connections, and
hose racks are free of any physical damage, are wholly intact, and are not leaking. Verify the PRV’s on
the sprinkler systems are maintaining the reduction in pressure per the design criteria.
e. Hangers and seismic bracing – Verify proper position and in good repair.
4. Five Year (5‐yr) Intervals Testing
a. Check valves – Internally inspect these valves verifying that all components operate properly, move
freely, and are in good condition.
B. Testing
1. Quarterly
a. Main drain – Conduct main drain test on every sprinkler riser or riser manifold by fully opening the
main drain valve, record static and residual pressures, and verify adequacy.
Main drain testing involves noting and recording the pressure of the gauge on the lower side of the
sprinkler valve. (This is the static water supply pressure.) Slowly open the main drain fully and, after
the flow has stabilized, again note and record the pressure on the gauge. (This is the residual water
supply pressure.) Assure that the flow of water will not damage the property. Loss of pressure of
more than 10% shall be immediately investigated to determine its cause. The effect the drop in
pressure will have on the sprinkler system operation shall also be determined to make sure the system
would perform satisfactorily. The original design pressure of the water supply system at the sprinkler
system valve shall be recorded and noted on a sign at the sprinkler valve.
Note: Where a fire pump is provided the main drain testing should be conducted with the pump
running.
b. Control Valves – Operate post‐indicator type valves (PIVs), wall post‐indicator valves, and roadway box
or curb box‐type valves until the spring or tension is felt in the operating rod. Back the valve one‐
quarter turn to prevent jamming. OS&Y valves or gear indicating butterfly valves do not require
quarterly testing. Lubricate all valve stems with graphite or graphite in light oil. The valve shall be
fully closed and then reopened to test its operation and distribute the lubricant.
Lubricate the operating stems of the outside stem and yoke then completely close and reopen to test
for operation and to distribute the lubricant.
Note: Ensure that a T‐wrench is left onsite following testing.
c. Dry, pre‐action, and deluge valves – Test the priming water level and low air pressure alarm.
d. Water flow alarm – Test water flow alarm functions when inspector’s test connection or alarm bypass
valve is opened.
e. Quick opening devices – Conduct a dry trip test to verify each device functions properly.
f. Return systems to service – Assure all valves, switches, and operating controls are returned to
their normal operating conditions and the system is returned to service. Report all fire system
impairments (e.g., closed valves, disabled alarms, etc.) using Amazon’s Impairment Program prior
to impairing the system.
2. Annually
a. Dry, pre‐action, and deluge valves – During warm weather, trip test with partial flow, with the control
valve partially open, closing it soon after actuation so as not to fill or fully flow the system. Quick
opening devices shall be trip tested annually in conjunction with the dry pipe valve trip testing.
Conduct a full flow trip test every 3 years on the quick opening devices, including any quick opening
device on dry valves. During the annual trip test the interior of the valves shall be cleaned thoroughly
and any internal parts be replaced or repaired as necessary.
b. Antifreeze solution – Before cold weather, test to verify adequacy of freeze point.
c. Pre‐action manual activation – Test manual activation devices to verify the devices operate properly.
d. Backflow prevention assemblies – Test that backflow prevention is maintained at full flow condition
including hose stream demand.
e. Pressure regulating valve – Conduct full flow test to verify adequate discharge and proper inlet and
outlet pressures.
f. Reduced pressure type backflow prevention assembly – Test these devices’ functionality in
conjunction with the full flow testing on the pressure regulating valves.
g. Detection system – Test per NFPA and Fire Alarm Guide.
h. Return systems to service – Assure all valves, switches, and operating controls are returned to
their normal operating conditions and the system is returned to service. Report all fire
system impairments (e.g., closed valves, disabled alarms, etc.) using Amazon’s Impairment
Program prior to impairing the system.
3. Five year (5‐Yr) Intervals Testing
a. Gauges – Shall be replaced every 5 years or tested every 5 years by comparison to a calibration gauge.
Gauges not within 3% of the full scale shall be replaced or recalibrated.
b. Sprinkler system, hose connections, and hose racks – Fully flow systems at each valve making
adjustment if necessary, per manufacturer’s recommendations. The values shall be recorded and
compared to previous tests.
4. 20‐Year and 10‐Year Intervals Thereafter
a. Quick response sprinklers – Representative samples shall be tested to verify correct operating
temperature.
5. 50‐Years
a. If a building contains a system in excess of 50 years, a fire protection engineer should be engaged to
complete a review of the design adequacy and witness test functionality of the entire system.
b. Sprinklers should also be randomly sampled to verify performance. If one of the sampled sprinklers
fails, the entire system must be replaced.
C. Maintenance
1. Provide as Required
a. Sprinklers – Replace with like kind when painted, corroded, damaged, loaded, or following a sample
test failure.
b. Obstruction Investigation – Conduct an internal exam whenever any of the following conditions exist:
1. Defective intake screens for fire pumps which take suction from open bodies of water.
2. Discharge of obstructive material during routine water tests.
3. Foreign materials in fire pumps, in dry pipe valves, or in check valves.
4. Heavy discoloration of water during drain tests or plugging of inspector’s test connection(s).
5. Plugging of sprinklers.
6. Plugged piping in sprinkler systems dismantled during building alterations.
7. Failure to flush yard piping or surrounding public mains following new installations or repairs.
8. A record of broken public mains in the vicinity.
9. Abnormally frequent false tripping of dry pipe valves(s).
10. A system is returned to service after an extended duration.
11. There is reason to believe that the sprinkler system contains sodium silicate or its derivatives
(see internal piping inspection under 5‐year interval).
c. Flushing – Water system components require flushing when an obstruction investigation indicates the
presence of sufficient materials to obstruct water flow from a sprinkler. Flushing procedures and
details may be obtained from Harrington Group, Inc.
d. Each system and its component – Develop a maintenance schedule in accordance with manufacturer’s
recommended maintenance interval.
2. Annually
a. Low point drains – Drain before cold weather. Also drain after system trip.
b. Check valves, pressure‐reducing valves, reduced pressure type backflow prevention assembly, and ball
drip valves – Follow manufacturer’s instructions for each particular device.
c. Control valves – Exercise all OS&Y and post indicator valves. Fully close and reopen each valve. When
opening, turn the handle until resistance is felt in the operating rod, making sure the rod has not
become detached from the valve gate. The handle shall be backed one‐quarter turn from the fully
opened position to prevent jamming.
3. Five Years (5‐Yr) Intervals Testing
a. Alarm valves – Internally inspect and clean.
b. Check valves, strainers, filters, and restricting orifices – Internally inspect and clean.
c. Piping with unfavorable water condition that could result in obstruction – Conduct an internal exam.
Flush if excessive sediment or obstruction is present.
d. Internal piping investigation – Destructive or approved non‐destructive tests are permitted. If
significant amounts of foreign organic or inorganic materials, slime, or tubercles (tested and indicating
MIC), an obstruction investigation should be carried out.
4. 15 Years, 25 Years, and Five‐(5)‐Year Intervals Thereafter
a. Non‐coated ferrous piping for dry pipe and pre‐action systems – Conduct internal investigation for
obstruction from corrosion. Flush if excessive sediment or obstruction is present.
8.3 FIRE PUMPS
A. Inspections
1. Weekly
a. Pump House – Verify:
1. Clean, dry condition.
2. Adequate heat, not less than 40oF (4oC) within the pump house. If diesel engine is not continuously
heated the pump house shall be maintained at 70oF (21oC).
3. Ventilating louvers free and clear.
b. Water System – Verify:
1. Suction and discharge gauges read normal.
2. Pump packaging glands have slight leakage.
c. Electrical System – Verify:
1. Controller pilot light “power on” illuminated.
2. Reverse phase alarm power light “off” on normal phase rotation.
3. Normal oil level in vertical motor sight glass.
d. Diesel Engine System – Verify:
1. Fuel greater than ¾ tank full, i.e. 8‐hour supply.
2. Fuel valve open and locked.
3. Absence of water in diesel fuel.
4. Controller selector switch in “auto” position.
5. Batteries (2) voltage readings normal.
6. Batteries (2) charging current readings normal.
7. Batteries (2) pilot lights are “on”.
8. Battery terminals tightly connected, free from corrosion, and clean.
9. Normal electrolyte level in batteries.
10. Normal oil level in right angle gear drive.
11. Normal crank case oil level.
12. Normal lube (crank case) oil heater.
13. Normal cooling water level.
14. Jacket water heater operating.
15. Normal water pump.
16. Engine running time meter reading records maintained and updated.
17. All “alarm” pilot lights off.
18. Condition of flexible hoses and connectors.
19. Exhaust system not leaking.
20. Normal exhaust system drain condensate trap.
2. Monthly
a. Diesel Engine System – Check:
1. Battery charger and charge rate.
2. Equalize charge.
3. Engine circuit breaker fuses.
3. Semi‐Annually
a. Water System – Verify suction intake, foot valves, strainers, and screens are clean and in good
condition.
b. Diesel Engine System – Verify normal flexible exhaust section is normal.
4. Annually
a. Water System – Verify circulating relief valve on pump casing closes when pump is not operating.
b. Electrical System – Observe that equipment is dry, clean, and in good condition.
c. Diesel Engine System
1. Check diesel fuel tank vents and overflow pipe for obstructions.
2. Check diesel fuel piping for damage and tightness.
3. Check exhaust system insulation.
4. Check exhaust system hangers and support.
B. Testing
1. Weekly
a. Diesel engine drive – Start automatically via pressure drop and run for 30 minutes.
b. Electric motor drive – Starts automatically via pressure drop and runs 10 minutes.
c. Water system
1. Record suction and discharge gauge readings.
2. Check pump‐packing glands for slight leakage.
3. Check for unusual noise or vibration.
4. Check for no overheating of packing boxes, bearings, and pump casing.
5. Record pump starting pressure.
d. Electrical System
1. Allow time for motor to accelerate to full speed.
2. Allow time for engine to reach running speed.
3. Observe that oil pressure gauge, speed indicator, and water and oil temperature indicators
are normal.
4. Observe solenoid valve operation.
5. Observe adequate water flow through heat exchanger.
6. Verify fuel tank float switch operates.
7. Observe that water drips freely from packing glands.
8. Observe that bearings and glands do not overheat.
2. Monthly
a. Electrical System – Exercise isolating switch and circuit breaker.
b. Electric motor drive – Starts automatically via pressure drop and runs 10 minutes.
3. Annually
a. Fire Pump Flow Test
1. Document pressure and motor speed at no load (churn) and document pressure, speed, and
flow rate at rated load (100% flow), peak loaded (150% flow), and two additional points
between churn and peak load. Compare readings to manufacturers certified shop curve.
2. Observe that all alarm features are fully functional.
b. Electrical System
1. Record voltage and current on all lines.
2. Trip circuit breaker.
3. Operate manual starting means (electrical).
4. Operate emergency manual starting means (without power).
5. Thermal image all equipment.
6. Include all other test functions.
7. Operate safeties and alarms.
c. Diesel Engine System
1. Verify normal operation of speed governor.
2. Trip over speed device.
3. Check anti‐freeze protection level.
4. Operate emergency manual starting device.
5. Operate pressure relief valve (over speed engine).
6. Verify automatic switch between dual ignition systems.
7. Verify exhaust system backpressure is not excessive.
8. Observe specific gravity or state of charge of battery cells.
9. Verify circuit breaker fuses.
10. Include all other test functions.

C. Maintenance
1. Quarterly
a. Diesel Engine System
1. Clean fuel strainer, filter and/or dirt leg.
2. Clean crank case breather.
2. Semi‐Annually
a. Electrical System – Clean boxes, panels, and cabinets.
3. Annually
a. Water System
1. Lubricate pump bearings.
2. Adjust shaft end play (as required).
3. Calibrate pressure sensor when 15% or more out of adjustment.
ii Mechanical
1. Lubricate coupling.
2. Lubricate right angle gear drive.
c. Electrical Systems
1. Calibrate pressure switch settings.
2. Tighten control and power wiring connections.
3. Grease motor bearings.
4. Lubricate mechanical moving parts, except starters and relays.
d. Diesel Engine System
1. Schedule diesel engine minor/major service with manufacturer’s representative.
2. Change crank case oil (sooner if engine operates 50 hours).
3. Change oil filter (sooner if engine operates 50 hours).
4. Change antifreeze.
5. Clean combustion air louvers, filters, ducts, etc.
6. Rod out heat exchanger.

8.4 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
A. Inspections
1. Monthly – Inspections shall include the following:
a. Located in designated place.
b. Extinguisher access is free of obstructions.
c. Pressure gauge reading or indicator is in the operable range.
d. Fullness determined by hefting.
e. Condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle for wheeled extinguishers.
B. Testing and Maintenance
1. Annual
a. Conductivity test – Hose assembly on all carbon dioxide types.
b. Physically perform maintenance procedures as instructed by manufacturer. This includes replacing
the extinguishing agent as indicated during maintenance inspection and after use. Maintenance and
recharging require the use of a qualified vendor.
2. Other Interval (6‐year and 12‐year)
a. Hydrostatic test – Perform hydrostatic test as required by local regulations and manufacturer
requirements. Hydrostatic testing requires the use of a qualified vendor.
b. Empty and recharge – As required by local codes and recommended by the manufacturer.
3. As Needed
a. When an extinguisher is removed to be recharged it shall be replaced with an extinguisher of equal
or greater coverage.
b. Perform leak test on stored pressure and self‐expelling types.
8.5 EXIT SIGNS AND EMERGENCY LIGHTS
A. Inspections
1. Monthly
a. Exits and access to exits – Ensure that they are free, clear, and unobstructed both along exit access
aisles and through exit doors.
b. Doors, stairs, railings, exit signs, emergency lighting – Verify in good physical condition. Make note of
any deficiencies requiring maintenance.
B. Testing
1. Weekly
a. Engine‐driven generators – Start and run for 30 minutes. Verify all features are normal.
b. Generator transfer switch – Operate from normal to alternate position and return.
2. Annually
a. Emergency lighting – Perform operational test for 1½ hour duration.
b. Egress doors – Freely open with a force not to exceed 15 lb. (67N) to release the latch, 30 lb. (133N)
to set the door in motion, and 15 lb. (67N) to open the door. Measure with a spring gauge.
c. Engine‐driven generator – Generator shall be run under load or simulated load conditions as
practical and feasible to ensure ongoing safe plant operations. This usually consists of shutting off
the primary power supply and allowing the generator to start automatically and assume the load of
the system. Test usually runs for 10‐15 minutes.
d. Battery‐powered light units – Prior to operation, measure voltage D.C. and Amperage D.C. power
load for 5 minutes. Then measure voltage D.C. and Amperage D.C. to verify functionality. Then
activate the lighting for 1½ hour duration as required for monthly testing. Equipment shall be fully
operational for the entire test.
8.6 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
A. Inspection
1. Daily – Confirm main fire alarm control panel is clear of all troubles and supervisory signals.
B. Testing ‐ Before beginning testing, all parties who may receive an alarm signal shall be notified so that
there will not be an unnecessary response. This includes notification to the alarm central monitoring
station and may include notification to the fire department and landlord.
1. Quarterly‐ Waterflow devices – Test each waterflow alarm device using the inspector’s test connection or
alarm valve bypass.
2. Annually
(1) Control Equipment.
(2) All functions – Verify functional.
(a) Supervisory signal devices – Test all valve tamper switches, high/low pressure switches,
water level, and room temperature switches. Test the supervisory device circuit by
disconnecting a conductor from its terminal and reset the control panel. Repeat the test for
all supervised circuits.
(b) Fuses – Remove, verify trouble indication.
(c) Lamps + LEDS – Verify illumination.
(d) Primary (main) power supply – Verify main power is attached and functioning.
(e) Transponders – Verify signals are being sent correctly.
(3) Control Unit Trouble Signals – Verify receipt of trouble signals at correct addresses (refer to Test
Methods for necessary tests and procedures).
(4) Remote annunciators – Verify the correct operation and identification of annunciators, including
under a fault condition.
(5) Special extinguishing systems – Test all equipment in accordance with the required Test Methods
for “Special Hazard Equipment.” Activate system alarm switches for all systems.
(6) Smoke detectors – Test and calibrate each smoke detector. The smoke detector shall be calibrated
with a manufacturer’s calibration device, or other approved method as listed in the Test Methods
reference section.
(7) Manual pull stations – Test each manual pull station.
(8) Fire pump signals – Verify all signals fully functional at fire pump location and at remote panel.
(9) Alarm notification appliances – Test all notification appliances for proper operation and adequacy
of their audibility/visual characteristics.
(10) Emergency voice/alarm communication equipment (if provided) – Verify operational.
(11) Speakers and horns – Test all for functionality and audibility.
(12) Fiber‐optic cable power – Test optical functionality per manufacturer’s instructions.
(13) Fire alarm system battery charger (nickel cadmium) – Test battery charger.
(14) Fire alarm system batteries (nickel cadmium) – Discharge test (30 minutes).
(15) Primary power – Verify primary power supply. Disconnect all secondary (standby) power and test
under maximum load, including all alarm appliances operating for 5 minutes. Be sure to reconnect
all power once tests are complete.
(16) Secondary power – Verify secondary power supply. Disconnect all primary power and test under
maximum load, including all alarm appliances operating for 5 minutes. Verify that the trouble
indicator comes on after primary power is disconnected. Be sure to reconnect all power once tests
are complete.
(17) Supervising station fire alarm systems – Test all transmitters for proper functionality.
(18) Printer – Verify functional.
3. Five‐Year Interval
a. Thermal Detectors ‐ Verify functional with heat source for restorable type, otherwise follow
manufacturer’s instruction
4. Maintenance
a. Entire system and components – Maintain all aspects of the fire alarm system in accordance with
manufacturer’s recommendations.
b. Smoke detectors – When a smoke detector is brought out of service for calibration it shall then be
cleaned of dust and debris that may be found in the unit.

Section 9 ‐ OTHER MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS
9.1 CONTROL OF WELDING, CUTTING, AND OTHER “HOT WORK” OPERATIONS
A. Equipment Requirements – All equipment must be free of physical damage. Any wires, hoses, gauges, etc.,
should be in working order and tested to local standards.
1 Gas Welding & Cutting Equipment – All gas cylinders must be adequately supported; mounting to a
mobile cart is preferred.
2 Electrical Welding Equipment – Grounding (earthing) clamps should be applied to the work piece to
avoid induced voltage spikes in electrical equipment.
B. Dedicated Hot Work Areas – Designated areas approved for non‐permit required hot work activities, such as
welding booths, workshops, or externally located contractor’s compounds. These areas must be approved
annually by Amazon’s Risk Management Team or their designee.
1. Annual permit is posted and up to date.
2. Area is free of combustibles or combustibles are shielded from sparks, slag, or excess temperatures.
3. Floor construction is noncombustible.
4. Partitions segregating the hot work area shall be noncombustible and securely fastened to the floor so
that no gaps exist. Any openings in the partitions shall be protected by shielding while hot work is
being performed.
5. The area is equipped with a minimum of two (2) dry chemical fire extinguishers.
6. Signage is posted to all entrances and exits notifying occupants that hot work is performed in the area.
7. A fire watch is maintained for at least 30 minutes after hot work is completed.
8. An annual inspection of the area is performed to ensure the area is free of any fire hazards and meets
the above requirements.
C. Hot Work Permits –
1. Where required – A hot work permit is required for any work involving an open flame, work that
involves grinding or cutting, or work which creates a surface temperature in excess of 750°F. In general,
any temporary activity that produces heat, flame, or sparks that is performed outside of the Dedicated
Hot Work Area.
2. Issuing of permits – Hot work permits can only be issued by qualified members of the facilities
department. Qualified members of the facilities department issuing hot work permits shall be
considered Hot Work Supervisors.
3. Duration of permits – Hot work permits shall not exceed one shift (either 8 hours or 12 hours). If the
hot work supervisor must leave before completion of hot work, the replacement supervisor must
inspect the area and sign a new hot work permit. The replacement must be trained and authorized to
supervise hot work.
4. Location of permits – The completed and signed permit shall be posted in the area where hot work is
being performed. A copy of the permit shall be posted at a designated visible location of with the Hot
Work Permit Kit.
5. Pre‐hot work site inspection – Prior to beginning work, the permit issuer should inspect the work area,
which extends in a 35 ft. (10.7 m) radius from the work, and note the following:
a. The work can only be performed by means of hot work (no alternate, safer means are possible).
b. The work cannot be performed in a designated hot work area.
c. The personnel are trained and authorized to perform hot work.
d. Fire protection systems are not impaired in the area of work. If the work is being performed on the
fire protection systems, special authorization shall be obtained from the Amazon Risk Management
Team.
e. The work area free of combustible materials (including structural elements). If combustible
materials are present in the work area, they are shielded from sparks, slag, and heat.
f. The area is equipped with a minimum of two (2) dry chemical fire extinguishers.
g. All wall, floor, or roof openings in the work area have been identified and have been covered with
noncombustible shields.
h. All air intake or supply vents within the work area have been properly protected.
i. Lock out/tag out procedures have been implemented where hot work is being performed on
machinery.
j. Where hot work is being performed on or in close proximity to pipe work containing hazardous
gases or liquids (e.g., natural gas lines), the pipes have been isolated, drained, and locked out.
k. The area does not contain flammable vapors or liquids. If flammable vapors are suspected, air
samples have been taken and certified that no flammable vapors are present.
l. If the work is performed at height (i.e., not on the floor) the following must be met:
The area of work is extended beyond 35 ft. (10.7 m) by 1 ft. (300 mm) for every 2 vertical ft. (600
mm) above the floor and extends vertically downward in a cylinder (e.g., for work being performed
at 10 ft., the area of work would be 40 ft. (12.2 m)).
m. If combustible material or important equipment is located below the hot work area, it is properly
shielded from sparks or slag during hot work
n. Fire watch – A trained individual, separate from the individual performing the work, has been
assigned fire watch duty. This individual is trained in the use of fire extinguishing equipment being
used in the area as well as the identification of fire hazards.
o. The fire watch will be maintained for the duration of the hot work and continuously for at least 30
minutes after the end of the hot work. Hazardous areas may require a longer fire watch. Refer to
Appendix E for the fire watch duration flow chart.
p. Upon completion of the fire watch duration, designated Fire Watch shall sign the hot work permit
verifying no fire hazards were observed.
6. After hot work and fire watch
a. Fire monitor – An individual trained in the use of fire extinguishing equipment being used in the
area as well as the identification of fire hazards. Fire monitoring is required upon completion of a
fire watch. This requires the fire monitor to make periodic visits to the area to ensure that no fires
have begun to develop as a result of the hot work activity. Fire monitor shall visit the hot work site
and adjacent areas every 30 minutes until 4 hours have elapsed following completion of the hot
work activity.
b. Risk management may approve shorter fire monitor durations.
c. Upon completion of the fire monitor duration, designated Fire Monitor, shall sign the hot work
permit verifying no fire hazards were observed. The completed permit shall be returned to the Hot
Work Supervisor.
7. Record keeping – A copy (physical or digital) of the permit will be kept on file for a minimum of one
year.
9.2 PERIODIC INFRARED SCANNING OF ELECTRICAL SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT
A. Infrared thermography scanning should be performed on all electrical equipment over 120 V within the FC.
The purpose of the Infrared thermograph scanning is to identify trouble spots in electrical equipment
through the use of infrared temperature measuring.
B. Third‐Party Inspections – A third party surveying contractor is recommended for all FCs to conduct infrared
scans and interpret and present the results. The third party surveyor should focus on the following areas:
1. Material Handling Equipment.
2. Generators.
3. Pump Houses.
4. Sub‐Stations.
C. Temperature High Points – The International Electrical Testing Association recommends the following
guidelines regarding temperature differences:
1. Severity rating 1 – 60°F (33°C) or greater – Immediate attention required.
2. Severity Rating 2 – 39‐59°F (22‐32°C) – Attention required within 90 days.
3. Severity Rating 3 – 33‐38°F (18‐21°C) – Attention at your next scheduled maintenance outage.
D. Frequency of Scans – Scans should be performed at least annually on all electrical equipment over 120 V.
E. Reporting – The third party contractor should provide the following:
1. List of trouble spots with supporting images (photographs) of the temperature gradient.
2. List of all equipment tested for the facility.
F. Follow‐up Actions
1. Measure amperage when problem areas are found and repairs are to be performed.
2. Repairs to be performed by a qualified electrician.
3. After repairs have been made, the equipment should be tested with an on‐site infrared detector to
verify a successful repair.
a. Scans with the on‐site infrared detector should be made with the same reference points as the
third party survey.
b. A successful repair has been completed when a 75% reduction in temperature difference has been
observed.
9.3 HAZARD EVALUATION AND PERIODIC REVIEW
A. Rack Storage
1. Inspection of flues in accordance with Risk Management policy and this standard.
2. Aisle shall be maintained clear of any storage including idle pallets.
3. Maximum storage heights shall be limited based on the design of the facility but in no case within 36
inches (1 m) of the fire sprinkler deflector. Design basis for the facility shall be confirmed through
Amazon’s Senior Real Estate Manager.
B. Control of Combustible Material
1. Materials shall not be stored or permitted to accumulate under conveyors.
2. Combustible materials shall only be stored in designated areas and shall not be permitted to
accumulate in areas not intended for storage.
3. Combustible materials shall not be permitted within 36 inches (1 m) of electrical panels or other
electrical equipment.
9.4 INSPECTION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS STORAGE, HANDLING, SPILL PREVENTION, AND CLEAN‐UP
A. Training – Associates who work in hazardous materials areas should be trained in the use and location of
spill cleanup kits at the FC.
B. Spills and Cleanup – The majority of hazardous substances stored in FCs are in very small containers, and
only located in large quantities inside hazardous storage areas. Where the potential for large spills exist,
secondary containment should be in place to mitigate the spread of hazardous materials. For small spills
outside of secondary containment, trained personnel should perform the following:
1. Deploy spill kit per manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Notify building facility manager of spill kit use.
C. Inspections
1. Monthly
a. Inspect sumps on any hazardous materials storage areas (generally only present for storage
lockers) for liquid.
b. Verify spill kits are easily accessible – no obstructions block the kit, kit location is easily
recognizable.
c. Verify spill kit contains all listed parts.
2. Annually
a. Inspect secondary containment (e.g., curbs, berms, walls, etc.) in hazardous materials storage
areas. Verify that the secondary containment is liquid tight, continuous, and free from cracks or
other damage that would allow liquid to pass.
9.5 CONTROL OF PENETRATIONS IN FIRE BARRIERS
A. Each site shall develop an operating procedure for the maintenance and control of penetrations in fire
barriers. The procedure shall include at least the following:
1. Program detailing responsibilities for fire barrier penetration management including the following
responsibilities:
a. Maintenance of plans identifying fire barriers and ratings in the facility.
b. Maintenance of permitting program for fire barrier penetrations for the facility.
c. Coordinate repair of all damaged/missing fire barrier penetration sealants.
2. Permitting program for any work that entails running cables, pipes, ducts, etc. that could potentially
result in fire barrier penetration.
a. Permit must include a drawing detailing the location of all work where penetration of smoke
barriers may occur.
b. Contractor must detail the method of sealing the penetration.
c. Close out permit to detail any deviations from the original permit plan.
3. Routine Inspection Procedures – Inspection of fire barriers for unprotected or improperly protected
penetrations.
a. Daily – During active projects to ensure fire stops and penetrations are being properly provided.
b. Monthly – Where active work has occurred in the last month.
c. Semi‐annually – For all fire barriers focusing on the need for repairs of existing penetrations.
4. Fire Door Inspections, Testing, and Maintenance – At a minimum, fire doors shall be inspected and
tested annually. In addition, fire doors in hazmat rooms and unsprinklered building should be inspected
monthly and tested annually. Periodic inspection and testing should include the following:
a. Visual Inspection for Physical Damage – An annual visual inspection of all fire doors shall be
performed and include at least the following:
(1) Labels are clearly visible and legible.
(2) No open holes or breaks in the surface of the door or the frame.
(3) No parts are missing or broken.
(4) Self‐closing device is operational (active door completely closes and latches when operated
from the full position).
(5) No field modification to the door have been applied which hampers the door’s integrity (i.e.,
creation of holes or gaps) or its ability to fully close.
(6) Windows or view ports, where provided, are intact and securely fastened.
(7) Latching hardware operates and secures the door when in its closed position.
(8) Meeting edge protection, gasketing, and edge seals, where equipped, are present and free of
physical damage.
(9) Document any discrepancies and repair as needed.
b. Testing – Fire doors should be tested annually to confirm the doors close by all means of activation
provided (e.g., smoke detector(s), heat detector(s), fusible link, etc.). Following testing, fire doors
shall be reset following the manufacturer’s requirements. Records of the testing shall be
maintained for at least one‐year on‐site and kept electronically in EAM for the life of the building.
c. Maintenance – Where fire doors have been damaged, only listed replacement parts can be
installed.
(1) Replacement parts must be labeled or from the original manufacturer.
(2) Where holes exist in the door (e.g., from removal of a mounted object) they must be
completely filled with either steel fasteners, or with the same material as the door or frame.
9.6 CONTROL OF SMOKING
A. Smoking indoors is not recommended. If smoking is permitted inside the facility, additional protection
measures shall be implemented.
1. Noncombustible spent cigarette receptacles must be provided for the FC.
2. Fire extinguishers must be provided in the designated smoking area.

Section 10 ‐ TRAINING
10.1 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER TRAINING
A. Key Associates – Managers shall be trained in the use of fire extinguishers on an annual basis. This shall at a
minimum include the Facility Manager, Safety Manager, and those designated to conduct hot work and fire
watch activities. Training shall include communication of the following:
1. Recognition of a device as a fire extinguisher – where fire extinguishers are located and how they are
marked.
2. Selection and suitability of a fire extinguisher – What types of fire extinguishers are located on site, and
when a fire is too large for hand fire extinguishers.
3. Transport of a fire extinguisher to a fire.
4. Actuation of the fire extinguisher – How to operate the type of fire extinguishers located in the FC.
5. Application of the extinguishing agent on the fire – Follow manufacturer’s recommendation.
B. Training records shall be maintained per Amazon recordkeeping requirements. See Amazon Safety policies.

APPENDIX A – Early Suppression‐Fast Response “ESFR” Sprinkler Obstruction Guidelines

7
6
failure
battery
8 Open circuit
9 Ground fault
System Inputs
3 Manual pull station
1 Sprinkler waterflow
5 Valve tamper switch
4 Duct smoke detector
Fire alarm system low
2 Smoke detector (FACP)
Fire alarm system AC power

A
Actuate Common Alarm Signal Indicator

B
Actuate Audible Signal At Panel

C
Actuate Common Supervisory Indicator

D
Actuate Common Trouble Indicator
E

Annunciate Origin And Description Of Signal
Control Unit Annunciation

F

Actuate Horn/Strobe Device(S)

G
Transmit Distinct Alarm Signal To Monitoring
APPENDIX B – Fire Protection Equipment Sequence of Operations

Transmit Distinct Supervisory Signal to

H
Monitoring Station

I

Transmit Distinct Trouble to Monitoring
Misc.

J
Shutdown all Warehouse Air Handling

Equipment ATUs, RTUs, HVLS Fans, and

K

Shutdown RTUs

L

Disable Access Control System

M
Initiate Phase 1 Elevator Recall (main Floor)

N
Initiate Phase 1 Elevator Recall (Alt Floor)

O
Initiate Visual Warning Signal (Flashing HAT)

P
Active Elevator Power Shut Trip Breaker

Open Supply Louvers, Delay 10 Seconds and

Q
then Start associated Exhaust Fans(s)

AMAZON FULFILLMENT CENTERS AMAZON FULFILLMENT SERVICES, INC.
R
Stop Exhaust Associated Exhaust Fans

Open Supply Louvers, Delay 10 Seconds and
S
then Start associated Exhaust Fans(s)s

T

Elevator Functions Smoke Control Systems
Illuminate Active Fans LEDs on Smoke Exhaust

U
Shutdown Inter‐Building Conveyers

V
Shutdown Waste Cardboard Conveyors
Shutdown All conveyors Systems

W
(Unsprinklered Buildings Only)
Conveyor Controls

Activate AR (KIVA) Emergency Response as

X
Detailed in Section 4.2 of this Standard

9
3
8
7
6
5
4
2
1
Wire‐to‐wire short (SLC &
10 10
NAC)
Wire‐to‐wire short (IDC)
11 11
Alarm devices
Wire‐to‐wire short (IDC)
12 12
Supervisory devices
13 Loss of carrier 13
14 Preaction Alarm Signal 14
15 Preaction Supervisory Signal 15
16 Preaction Trouble Signal 16
Electric Powered Fire Pump
17 Fire pump running 17
18 Fire pump loss of phase 18
19 Fire pump phase reversal 19
Fire pump main switch in
20 20
“off” or “manual” position 3
Controller connected to
21 21
alternate source4
Alternate: Diesel Powered Pump (In lieu of items 17‐21 above)
17 Fire pump – engine running 17
Fire pump main switch in
18 18
“off” or “manual” position

3 As applicable for supplied electric fire pump controller
4 When equipped with an automatic transfer switch
Fire pump/ pump room
19 19
trouble
Fire pump room/ house low
20 20
temperature
21 Low fuel level 21
22 Diesel fuel tank leak 22
Suction Tank Low water
23 23
temperature
Suction Tank High/Low
24 24
water level
End Alternate
Elevator Lobby Smoke
25 25
Detector (Main)
Elevator Lobby Smoke
26 26
Detector (Alt.)
Elevator Equipment Room
27 27
Smoke Detector
Elevator Equipment Room
28 28
Heat Detector
Elevator Power Shunt Trip –
29 Loss of Power to Control 29
Circuits
Smoke Exhaust Panel
30 30
Switch “OFF”
Smoke Exhaust Panel
31 31
Switch “ON”
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X
As applicable for supplied electric fire pump controller when equipped with an automatic transfer switch
APPENDIX C – Contractor Submittal Checklist
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST
P = PROVIDED N/P = NOT PROVIDED N/A = NOT APPLICABLE
ITEM STATUS INITIALS
A. Drawings
1. Symbol Legend
2. Initiating Device Locations Shown/Correct Symbols Used
3. Initiating Device Addresses Shown
4. Notification Device
Locations

Shown/Correct
Symbols Used
5. Notification Device Numbers Shown
6. Circuit Point‐to‐Point Wiring to All Devices
7. Complete Elementary Wiring Schematics
8. Location of All Conduit Shown With Sizes Indicated
9. Table Showing:
a. Wire Counts
b. Type
10. Table of Conduit Fill Calculation Results
11. Location of All Junction Boxes and Pull Boxes
12. Table Indicating Color‐Coding of Wires
13. All Relays, Modules, Auxiliary Devices Shown/Correct Symbols Used
14. All Drawings Same Size
15. All Drawings Sequentially Numbered
B. Complete Battery Calculations For Each Panel
ITEM STATUS INITIALS
C. Current Manufacturer’s Data Sheet Identifying Component By Part

Number, Type, Etc.
1. Boards
2. Modules
3. Amplifiers
4. Power Supplies
5. Batteries
6. Transponder Control Modules
7. Annunciator Control Modules
8. Remote Display Annunciator
9. Duct Detector, Detector Housing, Tubes
10. All Enclosures
11. All Other System Devices or Components
12. Print‐out of Program
13. Installation Manual for FACP
14. Installation Manual for Power Supply
15. FACP Programming Instructions With Password Protection Levels
16. Bill of Materials
17. Manufacturers’ Warranties
18. Installers’ Warranties
19. Contractor Q.A. Certification
20. Installation Instructions Which Are Included With Packaged Devices
D. Wire Samples

APPENDIX D – Testing and Maintenance Frequency Table
Equipment Activity Frequency
Sprinkler Control Valves
Sealed Inspect Weekly
Locked Inspect Monthly
Tamper Switch Inspect Monthly
Spring Test Test* Quarterly
Operation Test Annually
Position Test* Annually
Supervisory Test Semi‐Annually
Sprinkler Main Drains Test Annually/Quarterly
Alarm Valves
Exterior Inspect Monthly
Interior Inspect* 5 years
Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 years
Check Valves
Interior Inspection Inspect* 5 years
Pre‐Action/Deluge Valves
Enclosure (during cold weather) Inspect Daily/Weekly
Exterior Inspection Inspect Monthly
Interior Inspection Inspect* Annually/5 years
Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 years
Priming Water Test Test* Quarterly
Low Air Pressure Alarm Test Test* Quarterly
Full Flow Test Test* Annually
Dry Pipe Valves/ Quick Opening Devices
Enclosure (during cold weather) Inspect Daily/Weekly
Exterior Inspection Inspect Monthly
Interior Inspection Inspect* Annually
Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 Years
Priming Water Test Test* Quarterly
Low Air Pressure Alarm Test Test* Quarterly
Quick Opening Devices Test* Quarterly
Trip Test Test* Annually
Full Flow Trip Test Test* 3 Years
Pressure Reducing and Relief Valves
Sprinkler System Inspect*/Test* Annually/ 5 Years
Circulation Relief (hose caps in place) Test Annually
Hose Connection Inspect/Test* Annually/ 5 Years
Hose Racks Inspect*/Test* Annually/ 5 Years
On Fire Pumps
Casing Relief Valves Inspect Weekly
Pressure Relief Valves Inspect Weekly
Backflow Prevention Assemblies Test* Annually
Sprinkler System
Gauges (Dry, Pre‐Action, and Deluge Systems) Inspect* Annually
Gauges (Wet Pipe Systems) Test/Replace* 5 Years
Building Inspection (prior to freezing) Inspect* Annually
Internal Pipe Inspections Inspect* 5 Years
Antifreeze Sprinkler System Solution (Prior to freezing
Test* Annually
weather)
Standpipes
Flow and Hydrostatics Test* 5 Years
Fire Pump
Pump House Heating and Ventilating Inspect Weekly
Fire Pump System Inspect Weekly
Operation (no‐flow condition) Test Annually
Performance (flow condition) Test*
Fire Pump(s) Maintenance
Start‐up Test (Diesel) Test Weekly
Start‐up Test (Electric Pump) Test Monthly
Lubricate Pump Bearings Inspect* Annually
Check Pump Shaft End Play Inspect* Annually
Check Accuracy of Pressure Gauges and Sensors Inspect* Annually
Check pump Coupling Alignment Inspect* Annually
Wet Pit Suction Screens Inspect* Annually
Mechanical Transmission
Lubricate Coupling Inspect* Annually
Lubricate Right‐Angle Gear Drive Inspect* Annually
Electrical System
Exercise isolating switch and circuit breaker Test Monthly
Trip circuit breaker (if provided) Test Annually
Operate manual starting means (electrical) Test Semi‐Annually
Inspect & operate emergency Test Annually
Tighten electrical connections as necessary Inspect* Annually*
Lubricate mechanical moving parts Inspect/Check Annually
Calibrate pressure switch settings Inspect/Check Annually
Grease motor bearings Inspect/Check Annually
Diesel Engine
Fuel
Tank level (Check) Inspect Weekly
Tank float switch Test Weekly
Solenoid(s) valve operation Test Weekly
Strainer, filter, or dirt leg, or combination Inspect/Clean Quarterly
Water and foreign material in tank Inspect/Clean Annually
Water in system (check/clean) Inspect/Clean Weekly
Flexible hoses and connectors Inspect Weekly
Tank vents and overflow piping Inspect/Clean Annually
Piping Visual Inspection Inspect Weekly
Lubrication System
Oil level (check) Inspect* Annually
Oil change Inspect* Annually
Oil filter change Inspect Weekly
Lube oil heater (check) Inspect Quarterly
Crankcase breather (check) Check Weekly
Cooling System
Level (check) Test Semi‐Annually
Antifreeze protection level Check Annually
Antifreeze Clean Annually
Cooling Water to Heat Exchanger Clean Annually
Rod out heat exchanger Inspect Weekly
Water Pump(s) visual inspection Check Weekly
Condition of flexible hoses and connections Check Weekly
Jacket water heater Inspect/Check Annually
Inspect duct work, clean louvers Clean Quarterly
Exhaust System
Leakage (check) Check Weekly
Drain condensate trap (check) Check Weekly
Excessive back pressure Inspect Quarterly
Insulation and fire hazards Inspect Annually
Exhaust system hangers and supports Inspect Annually
Flexible exhaust section Inspect Semi‐Annually
Battery System
Electrolyte level (check) Inspect Weekly
Terminals clean and tight (check) Inspect Quarterly
Specific gravity or state of charge test monthly Test Monthly
Charger and charge rate (visual inspection) Inspect Monthly
Equalize charge (check) Inspect Monthly
Clean terminals Inspect Annually
Water Storage Tank
Condition of water in tank Inspect Monthly/ Quarterly
Water temperature Inspect Daily/ Weekly
Heating System Inspect Daily/ Weekly
(Items above during Cold weather/heating season)
Tank exterior inspection Inspect Quarterly
Water level inspection Inspect Monthly/Quarterly
Air pressure inspection Inspect Monthly/Quarterly
Tank interior inspection with corrosion (without corrosion)
Inspect 5 Years(3 Years)
Protection
Fire Hydrant
Operation (flow condition) Test Annually
Private Fire Service Main
Underground and exposed piping flow test Inspect* 5 Years
Fire Extinguisher Inspect Monthly
All extinguishers Maintenance Annually
Stored pressure type (internal) Test* Annually
CO2 type (internal) Test * 5 Years
Annually 5 Years
Fire Hose Inspect / Test* After Installation/3 yrs.
Thereafter
Fire Door Inspect Monthly
Operation (drop test) Test* Annually
Fire Alarm System Initiating devices
Pressure type (Waterflow switch) Test* Quarterly
Vane type (Waterflow switch) Test* Semi‐Annually
Smoke, Duct Smoke, Heat Detector, Manual Pull Station,
Test* Annually
etc.
Valve Supervisory Switch Test Quarterly
Hi/Low Air Pressure Switch Test* Quarterly
Fire Pump Supervisory Signals Test* Quarterly
Special Extinguishing System Inspect Monthly
Clean Agent, Wet/Dry Chemical, Carbon Dioxide, etc. Test* Semi‐Annually
Fire Alarm System
Control Equipment ‐ Systems Connected (Not Connected)
Connected (Not Connected)
to a Central Station
Functions Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Fuses Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Interfaced equipment Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Lamps and LEDs Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Primary power supply Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Transponders Test* Annual(Quarterly)
Engine Driven Generator Test* Monthly
Batteries ‐ Central Station Facilities (Fire Alarm System)
Lead‐acid
Charger Test Test* Annually (Annually)
Discharge Test Test* Monthly (Semi Annually)
Load Voltage Test Test* Monthly (Semi Annually)
Specific Gravity Test* Semi‐annually
Ni‐Cadmium Type
Charger Test Test* Quarterly (Annually)
Discharge Test Test* Annually
Load Voltage Test Test* Annually (Semi Annually)
Sealed lead‐acid
Charger Test Test* Monthly (Annually)
Discharge Test Test* Monthly (Annually)
Voltage Test Test* Monthly (Semi Annually)
Power Supply
Fiber Optic Cable power Test* Annually
Control Unit Trouble Singles Test* Annually
Conductors ‐ Metallic (non‐metallic) Test* Initial
Emergency Voice/Alarm Coms Equipment Test* Annually
Remote Annunciators Test* Annually
Initiating Devices
Duct Detectors Test* Annually
Electromechanical releasing device Test* Annually
Fire extinguishing system(s) Test* Annually
Fire‐gas and other detectors Test* Annually
Heat detectors Test* Annually
Fire alarm boxes Test* Annually
Radiant Energy Fire Detectors Test* Semi‐Annually
System smoke detectors Test* Annually
Functional Test Test* Annually
Smoke Alarms Test* Annually
Heat Alarms Test* Annually
Supervisory signal devise (Except valve tamper switches) Test* Monthly
Waterflow devices Test* Semi‐Annually
Valve supervisory switches Test* Semi‐Annually
Guard's Tour Equipment Test* Annually
Combination Systems Test* Annually
Interface Equipment and Fire Safety Functions Test* Annually
Special Hazard Equipment Test* Annually
Alarm Notification Appliances
Audible Devices Test* Annually
Audible Textual Notification Devices Test* Annually
Visible Devices Test* Annually
Exit Marking Notification Appliances Test* Annually
Off‐Premise Notification Equipment Test* Annually
Central Station Fire Alarm Systems ‐Transmitters Test* Annually
Central Station Fire Alarm Systems ‐Receivers Test* Monthly
Public Fire Alarm Reporting System Transmission

Equipment
Public Accessible Fire Alarm box Test* Semi‐Annually
Auxiliary Box Test* Annually
Master Box
Manual Operation Test* Semi‐Annually
Auxiliary Operation Test* Annually
Test‐ Physical check to verify proper operation or status
Inspect‐ Physical check to verify equipment is in good operating condition and free of physical damage
*Indicates activity shall be performed by a qualified contractor

APPENDIX E – Fire Watch Duration Flow Chart
APPENDIX F ‐ Risk Guide ‐ Hydrogen Fuel Cells
1.0 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this guideline is to provide fire protection guidance for the hydrogen fuel cell project. Hydrogen fuel
cells will be used as alternative to lead acid batteries which are currently used to power industrial trucks. This
guideline will cover the bulk storage of liquid hydrogen, the inside dispensing of hydrogen, the transfer of gas from
the bulk tank to the dispensers and the emergency response and pre‐fire planning. The overall goal is to ensure
that associates and guests are safe from potential hazards associated with the use of hydrogen.
This guideline is meant as a supplement to local codes and guideline. However, this guideline was developed based
on the current understanding of fire hazards and state‐of‐the art fire protection schemes. Where a local code or
standard requires less than the minimum protection required by this standard or when deviations from this
standard are proposed, it must be brought to the attention of Amazon’s Asset Risk Team. Any deviation from the
standard must be brought to the attention of the Worldwide Ops Program Manager, Risk Management, and Real
Estate Construction Manager.
1.2 REFERENCES
NFPA 2 Hydrogen Technologies Code
NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
FM Datasheet 7‐91 Hydrogen
FM Datasheet 7‐39 Lift Trucks
FM Datasheet 1‐2 Earthquakes
1.3 COMMONLY USED TERMS (DEFINITIONS)
A. AHJ – Authority Having Jurisdiction – A government organization, entity, office, or individual responsible for
enforcing the requirements of a code, standard, or mandate or for approving equipment, materials, and
installation, or a procedure.
B. Jurisdiction – An area, city, town, county, state, province, district, prefecture, etc., wherein design and
construction activities are under the control of an AHJ.
C. Contractor – The term contractor as used in this standard refers to the specific entity performing the
installation of a fire protection system. For example, in North America a fire alarm system’s wiring and devices
would typically be installed by an electrical contractor or fire alarm subcontractor. Either entity would be
considered the ‘Contractor’ in this standard where referenced in relation to a fire alarm system.
D. Fire (Protection) Engineer – An individual meeting one of the following conditions:
1. A registered professional engineer (P.E.) who has passed the fire protection engineering written
examination administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveys (NCEES).
2. A registered P.E. in a related engineering discipline with a minimum of 5 years’ experience, dedicated to
fire protection engineering that can be verified with documentation.
3. A fire engineering professional holding a license or certification in the region of interest.
E. Powered industrial truck is any mobile power‐propelled truck used to carry, push, pull, lift, stack tier materials.
Powered industrial trucks can be ridden or be controlled by a walking operator. Examples of PIT include sit‐
down fork trucks, stand‐up fork trucks, and reach trucks.
F. Seismic Area is an area located in a FM Global 50‐year through 500‐year earthquake zones as shown in FM
Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1‐2, Earthquakes

1.4 LIQUEFIED BULK TANK STORAGE OF HYDROGEN
A. 100 ft. from tank to main building
B. 50 ft. from clear space from tank to trailer storage or car parking
C. Refer to NFPA 2 (2016) Table 8.3.2.3.1.6 (A) for distance from lot lines. It will vary with tank size.
D. Specify that the hydrogen storage containers are to be designed, constructed and tested in accordance with the
latest edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII – Unfired Pressure Vessels.
E. Equip liquefied hydrogen tanks with relief devices on both the inner and outer tank in accordance with the
latest edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, sized in accordance with CGAS ‐1.3.
F. Equip gaseous hydrogen containers with safety relief devices as required by the ASME Code, sized in
accordance with CGA S ‐1.3 or equivalent international standard.
G. Grounding is to be provided for equipment and bonding connections will be provided for mobile hydrogen
deliveries.
H. Electrical equipment within 15 ft. of gaseous hydrogen equipment will be Class 1, Division 2, Group B.
I. Electrical equipment within 3 ft. of a liquid hydrogen point of connection will be Class I, Division 1, Group B.
J. Electrical equipment within 25 ft. of liquid hydrogen systems will be Class I, Division 2, Group B.
K. Specify that for gaseous hydrogen service, joints in piping and tubing should be made by welding or brazing or
by use of flanged, threaded, socket, slip or compression fittings. Brazing materials should have a melting point
above 1,000°F.
1. Avoid contact of dissimilar metals in liquid hydrogen systems or containers to prevent problems arising
from corrosion and differences in contraction and expansion.
2. Threaded joints with suitable thread sealant are acceptable on gaseous hydrogen piping. Avoid threaded
joints on liquid hydrogen piping.
L. Insulation provided for liquid hydrogen piping to reduce exposure of personnel to low‐temperature piping
should be noncombustible and should have a vapor‐tight seal in the outer covering to prevent air condensation
and oxygen enrichment within the insulation.
M. Provide 8 ft. high fence around tank and pad
N. Based on NFPA 2, provided signage LIQUEFIED HYDROGEN FLAMMABLE GAS NO SMOKING – NO OPEN FLAMES.
O. For nighttime transfer operations, provide adequate lighting.
Seismic Requirements for Bulk Storage Tanks:
Restrain the liquid hydrogen tank to resist the anticipated seismic loads. Determine horizontal seismic forces in
accordance with the requirements of the local building code and subject seismic zone, but not less than a
horizontal force equal to 50% of the weight acting on the tank’s center of gravity.
1.5 DISPENSING STATIONS
A. For indoor dispensing stations, provide the following:
1. Natural ventilation with openings located near the floor in exterior walls and at the high point of the room
in exterior walls or roof. Provide ventilated at the ceiling at a minimum rate of ten air changes per hour.
2. 20 ft. separation from ignitable liquids with flash points less than 200oF, oxidizing gases and readily
combustible materials.
3. 25 ft. separation from storage
4. 25 ft. separation from ordinary electrical equipment and sources of ignition.
5. 50 ft. separation from open flame and hot work
6. 50 ft. separation from ventilation intakes, air‐conditioning equipment and air compressors.
7. 50 ft. separation from other flammable gas storage.
8. 50 ft. separation from sprinkler risers and rated fire walls
9. Protection against mechanical damage from falling objects or other accidents.
B. Grounding is to be provided for equipment and bonding connections will be provided for mobile hydrogen
deliveries.
C. Electrical equipment within 15 ft. of gaseous hydrogen equipment will be Class 1, Division 2, Group B as
specified in Article 501 of the National Electrical Code or the appropriate country’s equivalent code.
D. Following NFPA 2 provide the following signage, STOP MOTOR, NO SMOKING, FLAMABLE GAS, HYDROGEN HAS
NO ODOR.
Seismic Requirements for Dispensing Stations
Provide symmetric anchorage for the base‐supported (floor mounted) hydrogen refueling stations with anchor
bolts through mounting holes provided in the base of the equipment or frame. Where anchors are not installed
symmetrically, design anchors to resist the expected torsional forces.
Provide overturning restraint for refueling stations where it cannot be ensured that base anchorage alone can
resist overturning.
Perform a seismic‐loading analysis based on ASCE 7 or other recognized code to ensure supports for piping,
dispensers, and outdoor equipment have been designed to resist the anticipated seismic loads.
Provide seismic shutoff on the hydrogen dispenser emergency shutdown system (ESD) which will included a
dedicated safety shutoff valve on the hydrogen supply line outside of the building and in a readily accessible
location.
1.6 ALARM REQUIREMENTS FOR BULK TANK AND DISPENSING STATIONS
A. FM Approved hydrogen gas analyzers should be provided to sound an alarm at a 2% hydrogen concentration.
B. Install local and remote e‐stops at the hydrogen storage tanks and the point‐of‐use equipment to be used in
event of an emergency during dispensing.
C. Bulk tank storage area will be afforded a FM Approved H2 detector and UV/IR flame detector. The detectors
should be connected to the fire alarm panel as supervisory or to building management system subjected to
approval from the local AHJ.
D. For Dispensing Stations, a manual fire alarm system shall be provided and interlocked to secure H2 flow.
1. Manual Fire Alarm Boxes. A manual fire alarm box shall be located not less than 20 ft. (6.1 m) and not more
than 100 ft. (30.5 m) from the dispensing station.
2. An additional manual fire alarm box shall be located at the nearest exit from the dispensing area
3. Activation of the fire alarm box shall sound a local fire alarm signal to alert building occupants of a fire in
the dispensing area and shall shut down the dispenser, stop the flow of gas into the room, and start or
continue to run.
E. Provide sensors to automatically detect hazardous conditions including the following:
1. Hydrogen gas more than 25% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) at the storage tanks.
2. Hydrogen gas more than 25% of LEL at ceiling level above dispensing areas.
3. Hydrogen UV/IR flame eye in dispensing area.
4. Sprinkler system water flow in dispensing area.
5. Dispensing system leak.
6. Lift truck “pull‐away” (with hose still connected).
7. Piping breaks or other large leaks
8. Critical deviations or upsets during refueling, as determined by hazard analysis of the dispensing system.
9. Internal (watchdog) timer timed out.
F. Fire Detection System. The dispensing room or area shall be equipped with a fire detection system including
UV/IR detectors.
G. Actuation of the fire detection system shall shut down the gas flow from the dispenser and stop the flow of
gas into the piping system located in the room where dispensing occurs.
H. Actuation of the fire detection system shall sound a local fire alarm signal to alert building occupants of a fire
in the dispensing area and shall provide a visual indication in the dispensing area of an alarm condition.
I. The fire detection system shall be maintained in an operational condition when the dispenser is either
operating or being maintained. An interlock shall be provided so that the dispenser will not operate if the
building fire alarm system is not operational.
J. Fire Alarm System. The dispensing area shall be equipped with a protected premises (local) fire alarm system
in accordance with NFPA 72.
K. Upon approval from the local AHJ, the dispensing UV/IR detector and H2 gas detector can be dueled
interlocked to the fire alarm control panel meaning that both detectors would need to be in alarm before
sending a signal to a central station. Avoid using a time delay. Individual alarms may be supervisory.
1.7 PIPING REQUIRMENTS
A. Piping and fittings in hydrogen service will be type 304 and 316 stainless steel.
B. All components downstream of the compression system are to be rated for 7,000 psig operation.
C. Specify that for gaseous hydrogen service, joints in piping and tubing should be made by welding or brazing
or by use of flanged, threaded, socket, slip or compression fittings. Brazing materials should have a melting
point above 1000°F
D. Piping, tubing, fittings, and related components shall be designed, fabricated, and tested in accordance with
the requirements of ASME B31.12, Hydrogen Piping and Pipelines, or other approved standards and shall be
in accordance with NFPA 2 8.1.3.1.1.
E. Piping will run underground up the exterior of the building across the roof.
Seismic Requirements for Piping:
Provide seismic gas shutoff valves (SGSV) on the hydrogen system. Arrange the earthquake‐actuated device
for automatic operation to safely shut down the flow of hydrogen gas in the event of strong ground motion.
Incorporating a seismic sensor into a customary emergency shutoff system is an acceptable alternative to
providing a separate system. Install the SGSV at the supply side of the hydrogen system outside of the
building.
Provide flexibility between rigid pipe and point‐of‐use equipment.
Provide flexibility between rigid pipe and supply tank.
Provide slack of at least 6 inches in flexible connections to account for differential movement between piping
and equipment. Alternatively, flexibility can be achieved by engineered systems using expansion loops with
welded joints or by piping arrangements using two or more ball joints designed to accommodate expected
deflections.
F. Provide pipe hangers and support in accordance with the following:
1. Provide vertical restraint (such as wraparound U‐hook hanger in lieu of an open U‐hook hanger) on
horizontal piping at the last hanger at the free end and within 2 ft. of the end of an arm‐over feeding a
drop.
2. Keep piping at least 1 ft. away from unbraced pipe of equal or larger diameter. If unavoidable, provide
bracing of the unbraced lines.
3. Keep piping at least 1 ft. away from unrestrained fixtures and equipment.
4. Provide U‐bolts or other equivalent means of vertical and lateral restraint to pipes that are supported by
simply resting on structural equipment or on trapeze hangers. When used, U‐bolts need to be tightly
fastened against the structure.
5. Provide retaining straps for C‐clamps used to attach hangers to the structural members.
6. Because of their inability to remain in place during dynamic loading that occurs during an earthquake, do
not use powder‐driven fasteners to attach hangers to a concrete building structure.
G. Provide sway bracing for hydrogen piping systems of nominal pipe size (NPS) 1 inch or larger in accordance with
local code requirements but not less than recommended below.
1. Vertical Pipe Runs:
a. Within 24 inches of the top and bottom of risers and vertical pipes.
b. Within 24 inches upstream or downstream, from valves, meters, pressure regulators and other
concentrated mass piping elements.
c. At intermediate points every 40 ft. and 80 ft. spacing for transverse (lateral) and longitudinal
bracing, respectively.
2. Horizontal Pipe Runs:
a. Within 6 ft. from the beginning and end of pipe runs (includes the free end, and the beginning or
end of the rigid pipe adjacent to seismic separation assemblies, flexible pipe or flexible hose)
b. Within 24 inches from changes in direction.
c. Within 24 inches from vertical drops.
d. Within 24 inches upstream or downstream from valves, meters, pressure regulators and other
concentrated mass piping elements.
e. At intermediate points every 40 ft. and 80 ft. spacing for transverse (lateral) and longitudinal
bracing, respectively.
H. Do not restrain drops to the equipment being supplied or to a structure (such as a mezzanine) that can move
differentially from the main building structure; this could result in differential movement being imposed on the
drop pipe.
I. Pipe Clearances:
1. Where piping passes through walls or floors, provide minimum clearance as follows:
a. For NPS < 4 inches, provide 1 inch all around pipe.
b. For NPS >= 4 inches, provide 2 inches all around pipe.
c. Where providing the recommended clearances is not possible, provide flexibility on both sides of
the wall by installing flexible piping or ball joints.
2. Locate piping no closer than 2 inches from walls, unless it rigidly braced away from the wall.
3. Provide a clearance of at least 2 inches to hand wheels of manually operated valves and a clearance of at
least 6 inches to the top works of remotely operated valves.
1.8 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND PRE‐FIRE PLAN
A. Prepare a written emergency response plan regarding an event at the bulk H2 storage tank, at the dispenser
and with PIT. The plan will be crated through Amazon EH&S as part of the site specific emergency response
plan.
B. Conduct a pre plan walk through with the local fire department and revisit once a year.
 This will include critical equipment placement such as the bulk tank and dispensers
 Emergency shutdowns
 Access points to the facility along with hydrant placements
 Firefighting approach for a bulk tank fire or rapid release of H2
 Responder awareness that hydrogen fires are invisible and must not be extinguished until the release
source has been shut down
C. Create a site plan of all of the dispensers, bulk tank, and emergency shut offs and keep at the site and one
with the local fire department.
D. Documented authorization for designated personnel on all shifts to active the emergency shutdowns when
warranted.
E. Conducting yearly emergency drills with site personnel for an event with the tank and a separate drill at the
dispenser. Ideally, this should be coordinated with the local fire department.
F. All records will be kept in accordance with Amazon EHS standards.
G. Copies of SDS or MSDS shall be kept on site within the Emergency Response Binder.

CHANGE LOGS
Change Log for Revision 1
Revised Section 1.2; References, added bullet point, “P. NFPA 75 – Standard for Fire Protection of Information Technology
Equipment.
Revised Section 1.4; Hazards, A. Commodity Classification, added item, “6. Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics –
Unexpanded Group A Plastics that are exposed, without corrugate or paperboard surrounding (e.g., plastic totes, rubber
and plastic toys not in boxes, etc.).”
Revised Section 1.4; Hazards, A. Commodity Classification. Changed item 7 to, “Idle Pallets – Wood, paper, or plastic
pallets stacked in bulk or stored in racks in general storage areas or outside in piles.
Revised Section 1.4; Hazards, B. Storage Arrangement, added sentence, “High‐Piled Rack storage is typically greater than
15 ft. high, but often up to 30‐35 ft. (9.1 m – 10.7 m). Racks may be Single‐Row Racks (SRR), Double‐Row Racks (DRR), or
Multirow Row Racks (MRR). The depth of a rack is typically 30 inches (760 mm) or greater.”
Revised Section 1.4; Hazards, B. Storage Arrangement. Added Item, “2. High‐Density Storage Racks – This includes
rainbow racks, high‐density shoe racking, or other storage arrangement within racks where product is stored directly on
the shelf, rather than on a pallet. Some racking may include a combination of traditional pallet storage, with high density
storage (or rainbow racks) on lower levels
Revised Section 1.4; Hazards, B. Storage Arrangement, added Item, “3. Shelf storage (e.g. library shelving) – Storage on a
structure typically less than 10 ft. (3 m) high, but no greater than 15 ft. for back‐to‐back structures. Shelves are 30 inches
(760 mm) deep or less. Shelf storage is often located within pick modules. Actual storage of products is typically limited to
8 ft. within the library shelves.
Revised Section 2.1; Water Supply, deleted “A. Capacity and Duration – What is the useable storage capacity of the storage
facilities (i.e., storage tanks, reservoirs, etc.) supplying water to the site?”
Revised Section 2.1; Water Supply, added Item, “B. Capacity and Duration – If an on‐site water storage tank is necessary as
determined by Part A, Adequacy, the tank shall be sized according to NFPA 13; capable of providing the required flow and
pressure for the highest demand remote design area determined using the requirements and procedures as specified in
NFPA 13, including hose stream allowance for the required duration. A permanent pipe connected to the water supply
shall be provided to refill the tank, sized to fill the tank in a maximum of 8 hours per NFPA 22 Section 14.4 (2008 Edition).
If the tank cannot be refilled in the required time due to limitations of the available water supply, then a secondary tank
may be required.
Revised Section 2.2; Electrical Power, added after last paragraph, “For locations in seismically active regions (e.g. US West
Coast, Japan, certain regions of India and China), a redundant fire pump configuration should be provided through one of
the following methods:
1. Provide two redundant fire pumps, one electrically‐driven and the other diesel‐driven. OR
2. Provide a dedicated emergency generator or size the site emergency generator to handle the load of the single
electric fire pump. OR
3. Provide a dedicated redundant transformer for a single electric fire pump.”
Revised Section 3.1 ‐ Storage Area Fire Compartments, updated to, “Where fire compartments are required by local
regulations or as required for hazardous materials storage rooms (See Section 7.1 item E), the Senior Manager…”
Revised Section 4.3 ‐ Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs/Lights, added, “Emergency lighting shall also be provided in the
fire pump room/house and in the fire alarm control room, where such rooms exist.”

Revised Section 4.4; Doors and Door Hardware, added Item B, “Storefront Doors (Main Entrances only) shall be equipped
with a button‐type device which controls power to the door locks and will be power‐failure secure for ingress only. The
doors shall be equipped with panic hardware which will permit egress from the FC under all conditions. The door control
will have two states:
1. An un‐interrupted (normal) state where the lockdown button is not depressed and the locks are powered up/doors
functioning properly with no impact to ingress or egress.
2. An interrupted (activated) state when the button is pressed and power is dropped to the locks. When the button is
pressed, it will interrupt the power to the locks and the main entrance doors will lock down preventing any entry
into the FC. Egress will be permitted by panic hardware installed on the doors.”
Revised Section 4.4; Doors and Door Hardware, Item C changed to, “Access controlled devices, except those covered by
item B, where…”
Revised Section 4.4; Doors and Door Hardware, Item E, added last sentence, “Provide signage on the associate side of the
turnstile directing them to egress doors and noting the operation of the turnstiles in a fire alarm event; e.g., “Turnstiles
free spin upon Fire Alarm. Do not use for egress unless necessary.”
Revised Section 5.1; Automatic Fire Sprinkler Protection, Item 5 changed to, “All risers will be provided with placards
which have been mechanically embossed with base of riser sprinkler demand pressure and flow, and design detail
including number of sprinklers operating, end head pressure, K factor, and area protected. At completion of installation,
provide sturdy chains and locks that are keyed alike on all sprinkler control valves, except for those in a dedicated fire
pump room/house that has controlled‐access behind a locked door. The locks should be sturdy (3/16 inches diameter
shackle or larger), resistance to breakage except by bolt cutters (frangible or break‐away locks are acceptable), and
weather‐proof where exposed to the elements. Do not use combination or multiple keyed locks.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, Item 4, added after last sentence, “For locations where a pre‐action sprinkler
system will be installed for the MDF room or otherwise, provide a releasing module listed with the FACP. This will provide
a cost‐saving alternative to installing a stand‐alone pre‐action releasing panel.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, Item 5, Changed Figure 1 to Appendix B – Sequence of Operations.
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, added Item 9, “Submit copies of shop drawings and documents to Amazon Risk
Management: [email protected] for review by Amazon’s insurance providers, where necessary.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, Item 3a, added to end, “…and Amazon Risk Management
([email protected]) for review by Amazon’s insurance providers, where necessary.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, added Item 3b (5), “Shutdown of KIVA via waterflow, following shutdown
sequence described in Section 4.2.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, Item D1, added sentence, “When the main FACP is located in the fire pump room,
provide a remote auxiliary panel near the Main Security Desk.”
Revised Section 5.2; Fire Alarm Systems, Item E3, added sentence, “Locate a remote annunciator panel in the fire pump
room/house.”
Revised Section 5.4; Fire Hydrants, after last paragraph, added, “In addition, hydrants in parking lots shall be positioned so
that all fire hose connections are freely accessible with the vehicles parked in nearby parking spaces.” Section 5.5 Portable
Fire Extinguishers, Item C, added last sentence, “Fire extinguisher shall be mounted so that the handle is not more than 48
inches above the floor (42 inches above the floor for extinguishers weighing more than 40 lbs.).“
Revised Section 6.1; Racking, Item A changed to, “Flue spaces – Flue spaces (transverse and longitudinal) shall be…”
Revised Section 6.1; Racking, changed order of items so that Item B is now transverse and Item C is now Longitudinal.
Revised Section 6.1; Racking, Item D, added, “Random variations in the width of flue spaces or their vertical alignment are
permitted for rack storage where product is on pallets.”
Revised Section 6.2; Racking, added Item, “E. High Density Storage – Physical barriers are required to maintain both
transverse and longitudinal flue spaces where product in storage racks is in a high‐density storage arrangement (i.e. where
product is stored directly in the rack and not on pallets). Examples include shoe storage, rainbow racking, bin‐box drawers
within pallet racks, etc. Flue spaces for high density storage must meet the requirements in parts B and C, including
details outlined in the Risk Management Flue Space Guide for high‐density rack storage.”
Revised Section 6.2; Changed title to, “High‐piled Storage Palletized or on‐Floor (e.g., not in storage racks)”
Revised Section 6.3; Shelving (Library Shelving), added Item, “C. Storage in library shelving should generally be less than 12
ft. (3.6 m), and in no case shall library shelving exceed 15 ft. (4.5 m) in height for back‐to‐back library shelving. For shelving
that is taller than 12 ft. (3.6 m) refer to Section 6.4 HIGH‐BAY SHELVING for design limitations and details.”
Revised Section 6.5; Pick Modules and Mezzanines, Item A, added last sentence, “If resin decking is used, the material
should have a flame spread index less than 25 and a smoke development index less than 450.”
Revised Section 6.5; Pick Modules and Mezzanines, Item 1, added last sentence, “Where draft curtains or solid barriers at
the edge are required, they shall be of noncombustible construction (e.g., sheet metal or gypsum board) and extend down
a minimum 2 ft. (0.6 m).”
Revised Section 6.5; Pick Modules and Mezzanines, Item 2 changed to, “Storage will be located within the sprinkler
nearest the edge of the pick module or mezzanine, and where there is a clear aisle of at least 4 ft. (1.2 m) from the nearest
edge of the mezzanine or draft curtain.”
Revised Section 7.1; Hazardous Materials, Item 5, changed fourth sentence to, “Gypsum board and metal panel wall
assemblies are acceptable means of fire separation as long as the assembly is listed/approved by a nationally recognized
testing laboratory (e.g., FM, UL, ULC, JFEII, VDS, LPCB, TFRI, etc.).”
Revised Section 7.1; Hazardous Materials, Item 9b, added sentence, “Supervise the ventilation system status on the
building management system, where provided.”
Revised Section 7.3; Hanging Garments, added Item, “C. General Storage – Do not store hanging garments in general
storage areas with high floor to ceiling clearances. Generally, ceiling heights shall be no greater than 12 ft. (3.6 m) where
hanging garments are stored. If hanging garments are to be stored in an open area with high floor to ceiling clearances,
additional protection will be required including drop ceilings over the hanging garments with sprinkler protection installed
beneath the drop ceilings. Consult with a fire engineering professional to determine the specific protection criteria.”
Revised Section 7.4; Idle Pallet Storage, changed Item A.1.d to, “Pile heights should generally not exceed 8 ft. (2.4 m) for
pallets of any type. Pile heights that exceed 8 ft. 2.4 m) should be reviewed by Amazon Risk Management or a fire
protection consultant to determine the minimum necessary sprinkler design.”
Revised Section 7.4; Idle Pallet Storage, Item B1 changed to, “Where warehouse ceiling is 40 ft. (12.1 m) or less – idle
pallets can be protected adequately by the ceiling sprinkler system if designed in accordance with this standard.”
Revised Section 7.4; Idle Pallet Storage Item B3 changed to, “Idle pallets should not be stored in un‐sprinklered areas.
Where the FC does not have sprinkler protection, pallets should be stored outdoors in accordance with 7.4 C. Outdoor Idle
Pallet Storage.”
Revised Section 7.4; Idle Pallet Storage, added Item, “C. Outdoor Idle Pallet Storage – Store idle pallets a minimum of 20 ft.
(6 m) from the building in stacks of 50 pallets or less. Individual stacks shall be limited to 15 ft. (4.6 m) in height, and
separate by 8 ft. (2.4 m) or greater. Refer to NFPA 1 “Fire Code” Section 34.10 for additional guidance, or FM Global Data
Sheet 8‐24.”
Revised Section 7.6; Computer Rooms (I.E. MDF Rooms), added Item, A.4.e, “Hanger rods shall not be considered as
seismic bracing components on fire systems protection in the MDF room.”
Revised Section 7.6; Computer Rooms (I.E. MDF Rooms), Item B, changed last sentence, “Utilize air sampling type smoke
detection for early warning where there is a cost savings.”
Revised Section 7.6; Computer Rooms (I.E. MDF Rooms), Item D, changed first sentence to, “…including waterflow and
valve tamper switches for the MDF Room pre‐action fire sprinkler system, and spot‐type photoelectric smoke detectors or
air‐sampling detection where used.”
Revised Section 7.6; Computer Rooms (I.E. MDF Rooms), added Item, “E. Ventilation/Hydrogen Detection – Provide
continuous ventilation with the proper volume of air changes per IFC Section 608.6 (2012 Edition). The mechanical
ventilation system shall be supervised by the building management system, but not the building fire alarm panel.
Hydrogen detection is not required if continuous ventilation is provided per the IFC.”
Revised Section 7.8; Conveyors, Item A, changed last sentence to However, conveyors which transfer materials between
fire compartments or between buildings must still be shut down on activation of a water flow alarm system device within
the associated building.”
Revised Section 7.8; Conveyors, changed the order of Items B & C and added Item, “D. Conveyor Tunnels between
Buildings – Provide interlocks on any conveyors when the conveyors are interconnected between two or more buildings.
These interlocks are to shut down the conveyor(s) upon activation of the buildings fire alarm system triggered by a
waterflow switch. Provide fire doors at each end of the conveyor tunnel where the conveyor(s) enters the building.
Activation of the buildings fire alarm panel via waterflow switch shall only release the fire door for the respective building.
Fusible links are required on each side of the opening per NFPA 80. When required by the fire protection consultant
and/or local code, provide sprinklers in the conveyor tunnels using a dry‐pipe sprinkler system.”
Revised Section 8.2; Sprinkler Systems, changed Item A1b to, “Control valves – Confirm all sprinkler control valves are
locked (or supervised, verify where the landlord or jurisdiction does not allow locks. Verify the valve is in the fully open
position, accessible, provided with appropriate wrenches, free of external leaks, and identified properly. NOTE: If the
valves are not locked, valve inspections are required weekly (per NFPA).
Revised Section 8.2; Sprinkler Systems, Item B1g, added last sentence, “Report all fire system impairments (e.g., closed
valves, disabled alarms, etc.) using Amazon’s Impairment Program prior to impairing the system.”
Revised Section 8.2; Sprinkler Systems, Item B2h, added last sentence, ““Report all fire system impairments (e.g., closed
valves, disabled alarms, etc.) using Amazon’s Impairment Program prior to impairing the system.”
Revised Section 8.3; Fire Pumps, Item 3a(1) changed to, “Document pressure and motor speed at no load (churn) and
document pressure, speed, and flow rate at rated load (100% flow), peak loaded (150%), and two additional points
between churn and peak load. Compare readings to manufacturers certified shop curve.”
Revised Section 8.6; Fire Alarm System, added last sentence to Item B, “This includes notification to the alarm central
monitoring station and may include notification to the fire department and landlord.”
Revised Section 9.5; Control of Penetrations in Fire Barriers, Item A4a, added Item, “(9) Document any discrepancies and
repair as needed.”
Revised Section 9.5; Control of Penetrations in Fire Barriers, Item A4b changed to, “Fire doors should be tested annually
to confirm the doors close by all means of activation provided (e.g., smoke detector(s), heat detector(s), fusible link, etc.).
Following testing, fire doors shall be reset following the manufacturer’s requirements. Records of the testing shall be
maintained for at least one‐year on‐site and kept electronically in EAM for the life of the building.
Revised Section 10.1; Portable Fire Extinguisher Training, Item A changed to, “Key Associates – Managers shall be trained
in the use of fire extinguishers on an annual basis. This shall at a minimum include the Facility Manager, Safety Manager,
and those designated to conduct hot work and fire watch activities. Training shall include communication of the
following:”

Revised Section 5.1; Added a new sub‐section “B. Exceptions”; re‐ordered Section 5.1 accordingly.
Revised Section 5.1, Table 1; Column 2 row 3 revised as follows: K17 (240)
Revised Section 5.2; Added new subsection “18. System Testing Bypass Switches”
Revised Section 5.2; Under new subsection 18, added Item, “a. A turnstile bypass switch shall be installed to prevent the
turnstiles from engaging in “free spin” on egress during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
Note: This bypass function shall not be used during Associate Fire Evacuation drills, unless there is no exit door
immediately adjacent to the turnstiles marked as an “exit”.
The bypass switch shall require installation of one (1) key switch and one (1) monitor module. The key switch shall be
located across from the security desk near the fire alarm remote annunciator. When the key switch is engaged it will
prevent the fire alarm system from engaging the turnstile "free spin" function on an "alarm" condition and relay a
"supervisory" signal to the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote annunciator at the main entrance.”
Revised Section 5.2; Under new subsection 18, added Item, “b. A Kiva bypass switch shall be installed to prevent shutdown
of the Kiva system during testing of the fire alarm and fire protection systems.
Note: This bypass function shall not be used during Associate Fire Evacuation drills. The bypass switch shall require
installation of two (2) key switches and two (2) monitor modules. The key switches and monitor modules shall be located
outside the MDF room on the common wall of the MDF room and the warehouse, mounted flush. When the key switch is
engaged it will prevent the fire alarm system from shutting down Kiva on an "alarm" condition and relay a "supervisory"
signal to the main fire alarm panel (FACP) and the remote annunciator at the main entrance.”
Minor text revisions were made.
Minor text revisions were made.
Revised Section 5.1, Table 1, Note C; added references to K25 sprinkler.
Revised Section 5.1 (D.1), clarified commodity classification for Pick Modules / Pick Towers (Pick Mod) and Robotic Storage
Platforms (RSP). The storage commodity shall be treated as Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastic.
Revised Section 1.1, Revised the Purpose and Intent paragraph for the WW Fire Protection Standard. Also revised the
Amazon leadership approval roles for deviations to the WW FP Standard.
Revised Section 1.2; Added references to NFPA 2, Hydrogen Technologies Code (2016), Fire Code; NFPA 30B, Code for the
Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products; NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives. Added
additional references to FM Data Sheet 3‐7, Fire Protection Pumps; FM Datasheet 7‐39, Lift Trucks (2015); FM Datasheet
7‐91, Hydrogen (2012)
Revised Section 1.2; Added references to NA racking design standards.
Revised Section 1.2; Removed placeholders for Appendices H, I, J, K and L. These documents are added as referenced
documents.
Revised Section 1.3 D.1; Revised paragraph to included WW certifications of a fire protection engineer.
Revised Section 1.4.A; Revised the general references to Commodity Classification.
Revised Section 1.4.A.5; Revised the reference to Cartoned Unexpanded Plastics (CUP) commodities.
Revised Section 1.4.A.6; Revised the reference to Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) commodities.
Revised Section 1.4.A.10; Added a reference for plastic totes.
Revised Section 1.4.A.11.d; Added general references to Section 7 for hazmat storage requirements within the design
standard.
Revised Sections 1.4.B.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6; Added to general references to standard racking, pass thru racking (push
through racking), high‐density storage racks (rainbow racking), reserve racking, very narrow aisle (VNA), A Level Pass Thru,
French racking, library shelving terminologies used within Amazon.
Revised Section 1.4.B.7; Added comments on typical commodity classification.
Added Sections 1.4.B.8; Added Amazon Robotics (AR) Pod descriptions and the typical AR Pod height for fabric and/or a
corrugated pod.
Revised Section 1.5.B.2; Revised the sentence describing polyisocyanurate foam board.
Revised Section 2.1.E. Added VdS Approval for EU Operations.
Revised Section 2.1.E.1.e; Added comments on fire pump run timers.
Added Section 3.5; Added comments for Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs)
Revised Sections 5.1., 5. 1. A, and Section 5 table 1; Added reference to roof heights ranging for 45 ft. (13.7 m) or 48 ft.
(14.6 m).
Revised Sections 5. 1. A; clarified minimum safety margins
Revised Section 5.1.B.1; Added comments for Control Mode (CM) designs used with peak roof heights of 40 ft. (12.2 m) or
less.
Revised Section 5 table 1; footnote 2; Added reference to transverse flue spacing requirements and aisle width restrictions
for Viking Specific Application ESFR Pendent Sprinkler (SIN VK514), K28.0 (K404) has a minimum aisle restriction of 6 ft.
(1.8 m) based on ceiling heights above 45 ft. (13.7 m), minimum 6‐inch (150 mm) transverse flues are needed. In‐rack
sprinklers may be needed to support the use of a 3‐inch (75 mm) transverse flue.
Reliable Specific Application ESFR Pendent Sprinkler (SIN R771),Model HL22, K22.4 (K320) has a minimum aisle restriction
of 8 ft. (2.4 m) based on ceiling heights above 45 ft. (13.7 m), minimum 6‐inch transverse flues are needed. In‐rack
sprinklers will be needed to support the use of a 3‐inch (75 mm) transverse flue.
Tyco ESFR‐25 (SIN TY9226), K25.0 (K360) has a minimum aisle restriction of 5 ft. (1.5 m) based on ceiling heights above 48
ft. (13.7 m), minimum 6‐inch transverse flues are needed. In‐rack sprinklers will be needed to support the use of a 3‐inch
(75 mm) transverse flue.
Revised Section 5.1, Table 2 footnote 4; The operating pressure for K22.4 (K320) or K25 (K360) of 40 psi supports a 6‐inch
transverse flue space in the storage racks. If the operating pressure is increased to 50 psi, the transverse flues can be
decreased to 3‐inches when the roof height is 45 ft. (13.7 m) or less.
Revised Sections 5.1.C; Added general text for fire protection design requirements.
Revised Sections 5.1.D; Revised commodity classification for storage under mezzanines and added paragraphs 1 (a) and 1
(b). Also added references to fire protection for Apparel commodities.
Revised Sections 5.1.E. Separated fire protection requirements for the Pick Modules / Pick Towers and AR RSPs into
separate sections (Sections 5.1.D and 5.1.E).
Revised Sections 5.1.E.1.a; Revised commodity classification for storage on Pick Modules (Pick Towers).
Revised Sections 5.1.E.1.b; Noted fire protection design concepts for Pick Modules (Pick Towers) constructed prior to
2013.
Revised Section 5.1.E, Defined the fire protection scheme for Amazon Robotic Storage Platforms (RSPs) in a separate
paragraph.
Revised Sections 5.1.F; Added in‐racks sprinkler design comments.
Revised Section 5.3.G.2; Added comments for use of beam smoke detection.
Revised Section 6.1.B; Added reference for EU and UK pallet racking configurations.
Revised Section 6.2.D; Added corrugated top requirements for plastic tote storage.
Revised Section 6.5.B; Added dimensions for gaps between the shelving and decking material.
Revised Section 7.1.F.4; Added comments for the use of AFFF foam additives for hazmat storage areas.
Revised Section 7.2.C.3; Added details for standalone aerosol cage(s) for FCs with peak roof heights over 30 ft. (9.1 m).
Revised Section 7.3; Revised general description of Hanging Garments (GOH) and added details for floor and racking
storage configurations.
Added Section 7.9; Added general details for Hydrogen Powered Equipment. Renamed Appendix F to identify the
requirements for Hydrogen Powered Equipment.
Revised Section 8.3.B.1 (b); Added the weekly run times for the electric driven fire pump(s).
Revised Section 1.4.A. Added paragraph to highlight typical commodity products for Pick Module Storage Areas (Pick
Towers) and Robotic Storage Platforms. Storage in the Pick Mods and RSPs is considered Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics
(UUP) to allow changes in product offering. Storage in traditional pallet racking is considered Cartoned Unexpanded
Group A Plastic (CUP).
Revised Section 1.4.B. Reordered Sections 1.4.B.3, 4 and 5 for readability.
Revised Section 1.4.B.8 and 9. Revised paragraphs for readability. Added reference to fire protection schemes in Section
5.
Revised Section 5.1.B.3.g. Revised paragraph to reference Appendix A for additional obstructions details.
Revised Section 5.1.F. Added pictorial examples of where sprinkler protection is required below conveyors.
Revised Section 6.2. Revised solid pile storage configurations and storage of plastic totes and transship totes
requirements.
Revised Section 6.5.A. Edited the paragraph for readability.
Revised Section 1.4., paragraphs A and B. Added Heat of Combustion definitions for various commodity classifications and
the maximum amount of energy released per unit weight of material burned. The overall hazard of a commodity is a
function of its heat release rate measured in (Btu/min or kW), or its heat of combustion (Btu/lb. or kJ/kg) or burning rate
(lb./min or kg/s).
Revised Section 1.4., paragraphs A (6) thru (13) Added or revised commodity classification of plastic totes, foam
mattresses and foam cushions. These commodities are classified as Cartoned Expanded Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned
Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) and require a greater fire protect design.
Revised Section 1.4., paragraphs B (1). Added transverse flues dimensions Revised.
Revised Section 5.1 (A). Reordered section to ease readability.
Revised Section 5.1 (B). Reordered section to easy readability. Separated fire protection schemes for Maintenance
Platforms, Pick Towers (Pick Modes) and Amazon Robotic (RSPs) Platforms, and Storage of Cartoned Expanded Plastics
(CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) Commodities into separate tables
in Section 5.1 (C), table 2; Section 5.1 (D), table 3; Section 5.1 (D), table 3; Section 5.1 (E), table 4; and Section 5.1 (F), table
5.
Revised Section 5.1 (B), Table 1 to addresses the ceiling only fire protection schemes. Separated fire protection schemes
for Maintenance Platforms, Pick Towers (Pick Modes) and Amazon Robotic (RSPs) Platforms into separate tables in
Sections 5.1 (. Added tables 2, 3, 4,
Revised Section 5.1 (C). Reordered section to easy readability.
Revised Section 5.1 (C), Table 2 to addresses the fire protection schemes for storage below Crossover Platforms, Outbound
/ Processing Mezzanine(s).
Revised Section 5.1 (D). Reordered section to easy readability.
Revised Section 5.1 (D), Table 3 to cover fire protection schemes for storage on Pick Mods / Pick Towers and Apparel
Storage Platforms using K11.2 (K160).
Revised Section 5.1 (E). Reordered section to easy readability and identified two fire protection schemes for the protection
of the Amazon Robotic Storage Platforms (RSPs).
Revised Section 5.1 (E), Table 4 to address Option 1 and Option 2 of the both fire protection schemes for the protection of
the Amazon Robotic Storage Platforms (RSPs).
Added Section 5.1 (F) and Table 5. Added fire protection schemes for the protection of the storage of Cartoned Expanded
Plastics (CEP), Uncartoned Unexpanded Plastics (UUP) and Uncartoned Expanded Plastics (UEP) Commodities into separate
tables
Added Section 5.1 (G). Added fire protection schemes for floor (solid pile) and rack storage of mattress.
Added Section 5.1 (K). Added fire protection schemes for floor and rack storage of automotive tires
Added Section 5.1 (H). Added fire protection schemes for floor, French racking, single row (SSR) and back to back raking
(DDR) of distilled spirits.
Revised Section 5.3.A.6 (b). Add the requirement to conduct a sound attenuation study is need after the MHE equipment
is installed and is in operation.
Revised Section 5.3.G, paragraphs 1 and 2. Revised the section for readability.
Revised Section 5.3.G.5 (d) items 1 thru 9. Revised the section for readability.
Revised Section 7.1, paragraph C. Added reference to NFPA 30 (2012) Chapter 12 as the basis of evaluation.
Revised Section 7.1.F (1 and 2). Added details regarding Dedicated High‐Hazard Storage FCs.
Revised Section 7.1.F.2 (e and f). Revised the section for the readability.
End of Change Log

WWRE Fire Protection Design Standards - Rev 9

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15 ft. or less K11.2 QR/OT 0.40 gpm/ft² 2,500 ft²

15 ft. or less K11.2 QR/OT 0.40 gpm/ft² 2,500 ft² Not less than 44

Peak Roof Height ‐ X Nominal K‐ Min. Number of In‐rack sprinkler

IFC/NFPA DOT NFPA Diamond Maximum Allowable

Class IB Flammable 240 gal (combined with Nail Polish Remover

Class IC Flammable 240 gal (combined with Paint Thinner

Class 1 Oxidizer 5.1 OX Unlimited Pool Chemicals

Class 2 Oxidizer 5.1 OX 500 lbs. Pool Chemicals

Class 3 Oxidizer 5.1 OX 20 lbs. Pool Chemicals

Toxic 6.1 Health ‐ 2 1,000 lbs. Pesticides

Highly Toxic 6.1 Health ‐ 4 20 lbs. Pesticides

Corrosive 8 Health ‐ 3 or COR 5,000 lbs. Concentrated Bleach

Level 1 <8,600 Btu/lbs. Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Level 3 >13,000 Btu/lbs. 1,000 lbs. Unlimited Unlimited

13 Loss of carrier 13

14 Preaction Alarm Signal 14

15 Preaction Supervisory Signal 15

16 Preaction Trouble Signal 16

17 Fire pump running 17

18 Fire pump loss of phase 18

19 Fire pump phase reversal 19

17 Fire pump – engine running 17

21 Low fuel level 21

22 Diesel fuel tank leak 22

ITEM STATUS INITIALS

ITEM STATUS INITIALS

Equipment Activity Frequency

Sprinkler Control Valves

Sealed Inspect Weekly

Locked Inspect Monthly

Tamper Switch Inspect Monthly

Spring Test Test* Quarterly

Operation Test Annually

Position Test* Annually

Supervisory Test Semi‐Annually

Sprinkler Main Drains Test Annually/Quarterly

Alarm Valves

Exterior Inspect Monthly

Interior Inspect* 5 years

Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 years

Check Valves

Interior Inspection Inspect* 5 years

Pre‐Action/Deluge Valves

Enclosure (during cold weather) Inspect Daily/Weekly

Exterior Inspection Inspect Monthly

Interior Inspection Inspect* Annually/5 years

Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 years

Priming Water Test Test* Quarterly

Equipment Activity Frequency

Low Air Pressure Alarm Test Test* Quarterly

Full Flow Test Test* Annually

Dry Pipe Valves/ Quick Opening Devices

Enclosure (during cold weather) Inspect Daily/Weekly

Exterior Inspection Inspect Monthly

Interior Inspection Inspect* Annually

Strainers, Filters, Orifices Inspect* 5 Years

Priming Water Test Test* Quarterly

Low Air Pressure Alarm Test Test* Quarterly

Quick Opening Devices Test* Quarterly

Sprinkler System Inspect/Test Annually/ 5 Years

Hose Racks Inspect/Test Annually/ 5 Years