Does anyone know of any building codes or documented best practices guidelines?
We are trying to add additional redundancies into the system and getting a little push back from the fire contractor and AHJ.
Subscriber Discussion
Anyone Know Of Building Codes For Mantraps And Interlocks?
Brian Rhodes
Aug 08, 2018Do you have an idea of what type of Mantrap would be used? Would you be installing a new apparatus, or do you mean to modify existing doors to work as a mantrap?
In some cases, the AHJ has problems modifying existing doors to lock them from the inside (especially if it is near or currently used for egress), but that can change if the area is overhauled with full height turnstiles, mantrap kits, or similar.
TM
Ty Mullen
Aug 09, 2018We would be "building" a system from new doors. Using commercial doors and hardware to function as a mantrap. Versus sliding a preconfigured system into a space.
In truth we have already specified and installed the system. We wanted more redundancy for egress in the form of fire pull stations next to the doors. But the AHJ didn't think they were necessary. That is what sparked the inquiry.
They have OK everything and made it clear that it is installed the way the want it. So we will leave it at that.
But it would be nice if the codes would address this. We are seeing a lot more of these in the research segments. Would be nice to conform to a code instead of re-inviting the wheel every time.
UI
Undisclosed Integrator #1
Aug 09, 2018Nothing would prevent you from installing manual override using blue or yellow pull stations.
You shall not use fire pull stations unless they are a part of the life safety system. At that point, it has to meet the requirements of a required system.
As a precaution, a sign off from the AHJ would be a good thing to have recorded.
TM
Ty Mullen
Aug 09, 2018UI
Undisclosed Integrator #1
Aug 08, 2018It’s been a few years (decades) but I recall system design usually starts with NFPA 101 to define the property type and use. You won’t see man-trap in there. The architects prints will state the building type.
Then you move on to NFPA 72 and NEC 70 and you won’t find much about man-traps there either. (Maybe something in the recent UBC, I haven’t read through it).
Where you will find information about the requirements of a delayed exit or man-trap system is in the Municipal Code or directly from the Fire AHJ who will ultimately certify the building for occupancy.
Some of the requirements can include:
A complete sprinkled building with monitoring.
A complete automatic smoke detection life safety system.
Additional fire rating times on corridors and exiting.
Automatic unlock (fail-safe) upon any fire alarm.
Dual mushroom button unlock with separation
Held mushroom button unlock (timed)
Unlock upon power failure.
Intercom to manned location with unlock capability.
I would start by discussing with the AHJ the need for this function and the requirements for installation and operation. It’s a discussion, not an argument.
In Los Angeles it was called “Method B” and was well spelled out, but still at the discretion of the AHJ.
Just some experience and advice worth the cost of $0.00.
U
Undisclosed #2
Aug 10, 2018It is worth the time to grab the floorplans, red line your concept and product datasheets and sit down with the local AHJ engineers(usually at city hall eating apple fritters) for approval. This is billable to the customer. Also loop in the architect so they are aware of upcoming changes if this is a new construction.
Brian Rhodes
Aug 10, 2018the local AHJ engineers(usually at city hall eating apple fritters)
lol
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