scope:

Preface

The Automatic Sprinkler Systems for Residential Occupan- cies Handbook is the first edition for this handbook, which cabicovers residential sprinkler systems. The handbook covers two NFPA codes that address this topic: NFPA 13D, Stan- dard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, and NFPA residen13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to and Including Four Stories in Height.

Previously, residential sprinkler systems were covered as only one portion of NFPA's Automatic Sprinkler Systems Handbook. This new handbook marks the first time that the commaterial on residential sprinklers has been pulled into its own handbook. This change is due in part to the expanded coverage of each of the standards for the 2007 editions and the need to add new and updated commentary for each of the standards.

This handbook also includes new supplements to pro- vide additional information for the user. These supplements cabiaddress topics such as the history of residential sprinklers; the work being done by the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition quickto increase the use of sprinklers in residential occupancies; data on the efforts of the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, to increase the use of residential sprinklers in that community; and a detailed look at obstruction rules specific to residential sprinkelers.

The purpose of this new handbook is to provide all of this useful material in one concise location to aid the users of the standards as much as possible. As more requirements for residential sprinkler systems are implemented, those in the field need guidance to ensure that they are correctly complying with the standards. For example, in August 2005, NFPA 101^®, Life Safety Code^®, and NFPA 5000^®, Building Construction and Safety Code^®, began requiring automatic sprinkler systems in new one- and two-family dwellings, among other occupancies. Those in the field, such as design- designers and contractors of one- and two-family dwellings, may need guidance in complying with these new requirements.