scope:

This standard contains minimum requirements for the design, installation, and maintenance of foam-water sprinkler and spray systems. These systems shall be designed with the required density for either foam or water application as the controlling factor, depending on the design purpose of the system. It is not the intent of this standard to specify where foam-water sprinkler and spray protection is required. The determination of where foam-water sprinklers and spray systems are required shall be made in accordance with such applicable standards as NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, and NFPA 409, Standard on Aircraft Hangers.

This standard shall apply only to systems using low-expansion foam.

Purpose.

The purpose of this standard is to provide a reasonable degree of protection for life and property from fire through installation requirements for foam-water sprinkler and spray systems based on sound engineering principles, test data, and field experience.

Nothing in this standard is intended to restrict new technologies or alternate arrangements, provided the level of safety prescribed by the standard is not lowered.

Unless otherwise noted, the provisions of this document are not intended to be applied to facilities, equipment, structures, or installations that were existing or approved for construction or installation prior to the effective date of the document, except in those cases where it is determined by the authority having jurisdiction that the existing situation involves a distinct hazard to life or adjacent property.