Report of Committee on Sto~age

Correlating Committee

E. J. Schiffhauer, Chairman Eastman Kodak Co.

J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA Rep. IRI

Wm. George Clark, MacMillan Bloedel Lid Thomas Goonan, Tom Goonan Associates Stephen R. Hoover, Kemper Group W. p. Thomas Jr. , Kemper Group

Nonvoting

Wesley L. D. Chisholm, Liberty Mutual Insurance Co. Richard A. Comstock, Fire Prevention & Engineering

Bureau of Texas

Report of Committee on Rack Storage

• S. Bar r i t t , Chairman Eastham, MA (Rep. IRI)

Charles B Barnett, ASCOA Fire Systems Rep. NFSA

Philip R. Bellsle, Speedrack Products Group, Ltd Rep. RMI

E. Bertram Berkley, Tension Envelope Corp. Rep. EMA

William M. Carey, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Ralph E. Collins, R. E. Collins Associates Robert B. Combs, Johnson & Higgins of WA Inc. Frank 3. Dahn, Navy Public Works Ctr Code 422

Rep. NFEC Coslmir 3. Drygas Jr. , M&M Protection Consultants Robert C. Everson, Calabash, NC William W. Glassmyer, St Onge Ruff &Assoc. Inc. Robert 3. Gray, Fire Spec Inc.

Rep. AFSA Anthony C. Gumkowski, Travelers Insurance Cos. Joseph B. Hankins, Factory Mutual Research Corp. John T. Higgins, Dow Cornlng Corp.

Rep. NFPA IFPS Richard S. Johnson, Hilton Head, SC

Rep. T/C on General Storage Nove11 Liston, Eaton-Kenway Inc.

Rep. MHI/ASRS Navin D. Mehta, Defense Logistics Agency (WIR) E. J. Schiffhauer, Eastman Kodak Co. Chester W. Schirmer, Schlrmer Engineering Corp. Jack Thacker. Allan Automatic Sprinkler Co.

Rep. NFSA W. P. Thomas Or., Kemper Group

Rep. AAI William A. Webb, Rolf 3ensen & Assoc. Inc. Donald P.~ Yuellig, Cincinnati, OH

Rep. FMANA

Alternates

Herhert N. Dav~dson, Liberty Mutual.Insurance Co. (Alternate to W. P. Thomas Jr.)

Russell P. Fleming, Nat'l Fire Sprinkler Assn. (Alternate to 3. Thacker)

Leo W. F1eury Jr., Grinnell Corp. Rep. NFSA (Alternate to C. Barnett)

Raymond A. Gr i l l , Rolf 3ensen & Assoc. Inc. (Alternate to W. A. Webb)

3ames M. Ingalls, Industrial Risk Insurers (Alternate to J. S. Barr i t t )

Herb Klein, Unarco Industries, Inc. (Alternate to P. R. Belisle)

Keith C. Kremkow, Johnson & Higgins (Altern;,te to R. Combs)

George E. Laverick, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (Alternate to W. M. Carey)

James N. M~cdonald, Travelers Insurance Co.' (Alternate to A. C. Gumkowski)

Aaron McCarthy, Factory Mutual Research Corp. (Alternate to O. B. Hankins)

Gerald W. O'Rourke, Schirmer Engineering Corp. (Alternate to C• W. Schlrmer)

Raymond Trandel, Marsh & McLennan, Inc. (Alternate to C. Drygas)

Technical Committee on Record Protect ion

Thomas Goonan, Chairman Tom Goonan Assoc.

Forrest V. Weir, Secretary Nat'l Archives & Records Administration

(Alternate to L. A. Oberg)

Oesse L. Clark, The Records Management Group Donald B. Davldson J r . , Los Alamos Nat ' l Lab

Rep. NFPA IFPS Margaret R. F ran t t i , Underwriters Laborator ies Inc. 3oseph R. Galaska, American Nuclear Insurers Charles F. Gosnell, NY Un ivers i ty L ibrar ies Murvan M. Maxwell, Maxwell & LeBreton Archi tects Melvyn Musson, M&M Protect ion Consultants Gerald g. O'Rourke, Schirmer Engineering Corp. Lawrence A. Oberg, Nat ' ] Archives & Records Admln.

(NAS) William L. Testa, Grinnell Corp.

Rep. NFSA Leon deValinger Jr. , Dover

Rep. SAA

Al ternates

3ark Thacker, Al lan Automatic Spr ink ler Co. Rep. NFSA

(A l ternate to W. L .Testa) 3ames R. Th ie l , Underwriters Laborator ies Inc.

(A l te rnate to H. R. F ran t t l )

Staf f L ia ison: Richard P. Biolen

This l l s t represents the membership at the time the Committee was balloted on the text of this ed i t i on . Since that t ime, changes in the membership may have occurred.

The Report of the Committee on Storage is presented for adoption in 3 parts.

Part I of th is Report was prepared by the Technical Commlttee on R~k Storage, and proposes for adoption amendments to~-'l~FPA 231C-1986, Standard for Rack Storage of Mater ia ls . NFPA 231C is published in Volume 6 of the 1989 National Fire Codes and in separate pamphlet form.

Part I of th is Report has been submitted to l e t t e r b a l l o t of the Technical Committee on Rack Storage which consists of 24 vot ing members; in two segments.

Segment No. 1 consists of the Chapter 8 subcommittee proposal on Chapter 8.

On Segment No. i , 18 voted a f f i r m a t i v e l y . 2 negat ive ly (Messrs. Schirmer and Webb), and 4 ba l l o t s were not returned (Messrs. Berkley, Glassmyer, 3ohnson and Mehta).

Mr. Schlrmer voted negat ive ly s ta t ing : "Chapter 8 expands NFPA 231C in to Plast ic Storage

under 12 f t high based on i n t e rp re ta t i on of tests conducted in the 1970's plus "Propr ie ta ry Test Data" not released to the committee. I n te rp re ta t i on o f the data is in many cases incorrect and does not r e f l e c t resul ts from a l l tests in the series or previous tes t data from the f u l l Rack Storage test ser ies. Requirements for f i r ep roo f i ng of roof steel based on a i r temperature rather than thermocouples pinned in to steel members is not Jus t i f i ed nor are many new in rack spr ink le r

724

requirements. The hundreds of .U.L. - tes ts conducted on 5 f t + p las t i c storage as part of the QR Program were not considered. These new restr lct ive requirements require considerably more study'as does the question of scope between NFPA 13 and 231C for storage below 12 f t . "

Mr. Webb voted negatively stating: "NFPA 231C, Part I, paragraphs 8-2.1.2 and

8-2.1.2.1. Tak'en together, these paragraphs allow protection of 15 f t high storage with I0 f t clearance or 20 f t hlgh storage with less than 5 f t clearance of plastic commodities with ceiling . sprinklers only i f roof structural steel protect ion for 15 minute minimum f i r e resistance rat ing is provided.

He recommends the ce i l ing spr ink ler option for these conditions be eliminated and that in-rack sprinklers be required. Roof structural steel f l re resistance would not then be required.

The Ad Hoc Committee which reviewed the test data to develop the requirements, presented a cogent argument for why the protection requirements should be iucreased. The data they presented showed that ceiling temperatures were over 1,000°F for over 10 minutes where ceil ing sprinklers only were used. Their solution was to require roof steel protection. He believes this may be outside the scope of the Rack Storage Standard. Me believes tile protection recommended are deficient. Adequate protection can be provided within the scope of NFPA 231C without roof steel protection by requiring in-rack sprinklers."

Although Mr. Collins voted affirmatively on Segment No. I, he feels the 5 f t high storage of

~ lastics should be included as original ly proposed y the Chapter 8 subcommittee at the October, 1989

Committee Meeting.

Segment No. 2 consists of the balance of the Proposals.

On Segment No. 2, 20 voted affirmatively, and 4 ballots were not returned (Messrs. Berkley, Glassmyer, Johnson and Mehta).

Although Mr. Schlrmer voted affirmatively he feels the definition of an ESFR Sprinkler in I-2 does not agree with the NFPA 13 definltion. The NFPA 231C definit ion should be revised to correlate with NFPA 13. "A l isted ESFR Sprinkler is a thermosensitive device designed to react to a predetermined temperature by automatically

releasing a stream of water and distributing i t in a specific pattern and quantity over a designated area so as to provide early supression of a f i re when installed on the appropriate piping." (See 9-3.1 of NFPA 13).

Chapter I0 "ESFR Sprinklers" is not necessary as i t is covered under Chapter 9 of NFPA 13. Inclusion of this material in both standards introduces possibi l i ty of conflicting requirements in two NFPA documents. 10-2.8 is outside the scope of NFPA 231C.

Part I , Segments No. 1 and 2 of th is Report has also been submitted to let ter ballot of the Correlating Committee on Storage which consists of 6 voting members; of whom 5 voted affirmatively and I abstention (Mr. Schiffhauer) on both segments. '

Part I I of this Report was prepared by the Technlcal Committee on Record Protection, and

~ roposes for adoption amendments to NFPA 232-1986, tandard for the Protection of Records. NFPA 232

is published in Volume 6 of the 1989 National Fire Codes and in separate pamphlet form.

Part I I of this Report has been submitted to le t ter ballot of the Technical Committee on Record Protection which consists of 13 voting members; of whom 10 voted affirmatively, and 3 ballots were not returned (Messrs. Clark, O'Rourke and deValinger).

Part I I of this Report has also been submitted to le t ter ballot of the Correlating Committee on Storage which consists of 6 voting members; of whom S voted affirmatively, and I abstention (Mr. Schlffhauer).

Part I l l , prepared by the Technical Committee on Record Protection, proposes for adoption amendments to NFPA 232AM-1986, Manual for Fire Protection for Archives and Records Centers. NFPA 232AM is published in Volume 10 of the 1989 National Fire Codes and in separate pamphlet form.

Part I I I has been submitted to le t ter ballot of the Technical Committee on Record Protection which consists of 13 voting members; of whom 10 voted affirmatively, and 3 ballots were not returned (Messrs. Clark, O'Rourke and deValinger).

Part I l l has also been submitted to let ter : ballot of the Correlating Committee on Record Protection which consists of 6 voting members; of whom 5 voted affirmatively, and I abstention (Mr. Schiffhauer).

725

PART I

231C- 1 - (1-1) : Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Revise the scope to read:

"Application and Scope. This standard applies to storage of materials representing the broad range of commodities stored in racks. For storage of Class I through Class IV commodities (see Chapter 2 for definitions), stored less than 12 f t high, or storage of Group A plastics stored less than 5 f t high, see NFPA 13, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems.

Storage on plastics . . . outside the scope of this standard." S~BSTANjIATION: The scope of the standard was revised to allow for the requirements for plastics storage over 5 f t high.

• C~MHIT~E ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 5) 231C- 2 - (1-1): Accept SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, HA REcoMMENDATION: In I - I , third paragraph, add:

"231E, Standard for the Storage of Baled Cotton." SUBSTANTIATION: Baled cotton is a commodity that is outside the scope of 231C. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 8) 231C- 7 - (2-1.2): Accept ~ : . 3. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: In 2-1.2 substitute "multi-wall corrugated cartons" for the existing "multiple-thlckness paperboard cartons." SUBSTANTIATION: The new wording more accurately defines what is intended for this commodity class. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 10) 231C- 8 - (3-2.3(d) (New)): Accept in Principle SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATXON: Add to 3-2.3 a new item as follows:

(d) For storage heights above 15 f t (4.57 m), up to and including 25 f t (7.62 m), prov is ion of Large Drop or ESFR c e i l i n g sp r ink le r pro tec t ion in accordance with Chapters 9 and 10, respect ive ly . SUBSTANTIATIQN: Steel bu i l d ing columns and ve r t i ca l rack members can be protected adequately by these l a tes t s ty le of ce i l i ng spr ink le rs . COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Pr inc lp le .

Revise to read: "(d) Provision of large drop of ESFR ce i l i ng

sp r ink le r pro tec t ion in accordance with Chapters'9 and 10, respec t i ve l y . " COMMITTEE STATEMENT: Storage heights are redundant. Many paragraphs already discuss storage height.

(Log # 6) 231C- 3 - (I-2): Accept ~I~B_MT~_T_F~R: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA ~COMMENDATION: In I-2, under Free-Flowing Plastic Materials" change the metric conversion to read:

"(30-59 mL)." S~BSTANTIATION: I t is the size (volume) of the bottles rather than their weight that is important. C_OMM_I~T.~_~: Accept. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: Editor ial ly change "oz." to f l . OZ . Ii

(Log # 11) 231C- 9 - (4-3.1 Exception (New)): Accept ~ : 3. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: In 4-3.1 add the following:

Exception: A longitudinal flue space is necessary when ESFR sprinkler protection is provided. SUBSTANTIATION: The design parameters for the use of ESFR sprinkler protection anticipate the avai labi l i ty of a longitudinal flue to permit delivery of sprinkler discharge to the base of the f i re. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 4 - (I-2): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials ~OMMENDATION: Add new definit ion of clearance as follows:

"I-2 Clearance. Clearance is the distance from the top of storage to the ceil ing sprinkler deflectors."

Also delete. SUBSTANTIATION: This definit ion is needed for c larr i ty as i t is used throughout the standard. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 12) 231C- I0 - (4-5 Exception (New)): Accept SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: To 4-5 add the following:

Exception: When Large Drop or ESFR sprinkler protection is used, the distance from top of pile to the ceiling sprinkler deflectors shall be not less than 36 in. (0.91 m). SUBSTANTIATION: The test work done on LD and ESFR sprinkler protection demonstrated the need for the 36 in. (1 m) clearance. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

Z31C- 5 - (I-2): Accept S.VBM~T~ER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Add under I-2 definltions the following:

ESFR. Early Suppression Fast Response pendent sprinkler having a nominal K factor of 14. SUBSTANTIATION: Definition is needed as result of recognizing the use of ESFR sprinkler protection in Chapte I0. Cp_MMITTE~ : Accept.

(Log # 13) 231C- 11 - (5-1.2): Accept SUBMITTER: 3. S. Barri t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: In 5-1.2 the reference on the second line should be to "Chapters 6, 7 and 8."

Rewrite the last sentence as follows: "For the use of large-drop and ESFR sprinklers see

Chapters 9 and 10, respectively." SUBSTANTIATION: This updates the references made in this paragraph. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 7) 231C- 6 - (Figure I-2.2): Accept SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: In Figure I-2.2 insert "(slave)" between "Wood" and "Pallet" in the lower caption. SUBSTANTIATION: In the definit ion for slave pallet. Figure 1-2.2 is referenced but i t does not contain any such identif ication. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 12 - (5-5.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials I ECOMMENDATION: Revise 5-5.1 to read: '

5-5.1 When sprinklers are installed in racks, separate indicating gate valves and drains shall be provided for ceiling sprinklers and sprinklers in racks.

726

Exception No. I : In-rack installations of 20 or less sprinklers.

Exception No. 2: The separate indicating valves may be arranged as sectional control valves when the racks occupy only a portion of the area protected by the ceiling sprinklers. See Figure 5-.5.1. SUBSTANTIATION: Clarif ication of the intent of the committee as to where the separation of control between ceiling and in-rack sprinklers should take place. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 13 - (5~): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials R_ECOMMEN~: In the exception, remove the comma after "when separately controlled" SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 14 - (Chapter 6): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Throughout Chapter 6 insert the phrase "single row racks" wherever double row racks are mentioned. SUBSTANTIATION: The intent of the standard is that single row racks require.the same degree of protection as double row racks. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 15 - (6-4.2, 7-5 and 8-2.4.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials ~ 0 3 M _ E ~ : Add "vert ical" between "6 in. (152.4 mm)" and "clear." SUBSTANTIATION: Vertical was added for c lar i ty. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 16 - (6-4.2): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Add to 6-4.2 the sentence:

"Sprinkler discharge shall not l)e obstructed by horizontal rack members." SUBSTANTIATION: Fire tests indicated that obstructions to sprinkler discharge became unacceptable once storage heights exceeded 20 f t and the Committee specifically ruled in Formal Interpretation 231C-87-2 that this applied to obstructions created by horizontal rack members. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 17 - (6-5.I, Table 6-13.1. 8-3 and 9-1.2): Accept S U.BMI!!ER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECQHHENDATION: I, In 6-5.1 the word on the second line should be "nonencapsulated."

2. In Table 6-13.1 the phrase at the bottom of the fourth column should be "2 Levels."

3. In 8-3 add "(7.62 m)" after 25 f t . 4. In 9-1.2 the correct reference would be to

Chapter 8 of NFPA 13. 5. In Table 7-13, change figure numbers to 7-13(a),

(b) and (c) not 7-13.1(a) , (b) and (c) . Do the same in Note 1.

6. Paragraph 5-4, change "3-7 km 2'' to 3716 m 2''. ~UBSTANTIATION: E d i t o r i a l . C~MM_IJ_TEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 4) 231C- 18 - (7-5): Accept in Principle ~BMITTER: Cheryl L. Domnitch, Rolf Jensen & Associates, Inc. RECOMMENDATION: Revise last sentence of section to read:

"Other sprinklers in racks shall be located wlth:out completely obstructing sprinkler discharge pattern'. I f a partial obstruction to a sprinkler discharge pattern exists, to allow desired rack system operation, protection of any obstructed areas shall be achieved by the discharge pattern of another sprinkler." SUBSTANTIATION: The 2-foot clearance from rack uprights cannot physically be achieved at al l locations in state of the art automatic storage/retrieval systems, and allow for proper functloning of rack system.

Due to horizontal and vertlcalstaggering of sprinkers in racks i t is possible to design an in,rack sprinkler system where alternate levels can protec'ted obstructed areas. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle.

Add an exception to 7-5 as follows: "Exception. When the distance between uprights iis

less than 4 f t sprinklers are to be'centered between uprigfits." COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The exception wi l l allow sprinklers to be centered when rack widths are less than 4 f t therefore they do not have to be a minimum of 2 f t from uprights in this situation.

231C- 19 - (Figures 7-10.1(a), (b), ( c ) , ( d ) , (e ) ; ( f ) , " (g) , (h), (1), ( j ) , Figures 7-10.3(a) , (b), (c) , (~d),

(e) , Figures 7-13(a), (b) , (c) , Figures 8-4 .2 .1(a) , (b), Figures 8 -4 .2 .3 (a) , (b) , (c ) ) : Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Add the following note to Figures 7-10.1(a), (b), (c), (d), (e), ( f ) , (g), (h), ( i ) , ( j , Figures 7-10.3(a), (b), (c) , (d) , (e) , Figures 7-13(a), (b), (c), Figures 8-4.2.1(a), (b), Figures 8-4.2.3(a), (b), (c)

"NOTE: Each square in the figure represents a storage cube measuring 4 to 5 f t (1.25 to 1.56 m) on a si te."

SUBSTANTIATION: To clar i fy the size of the 'storage commodity,in the figures. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 20 - (Chapter 8, 1-1): Accept ~UBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage RECOMMENDATION: Rewrite Chapter 8 and 1-1 as fo l lows:

8-1.4 Change "ord inary temperature rated" to "ord inary to high temperature ra ted. "

Rewrite Exception No. 2 to read: "Exception No. 2: ESFR spr lnk lers as indicated in

Chapter 10." Add: "Exception No. 3: For densi t ies of 0.30 gpm/sq'f t

(12.2 L/min/sq m) or less. 1/2 in . (12.7 mm) o r i f i c e spr ink lers are permi t ted. "

8-2 Renumber to 8-1.5. 8-2.1 Renumber to 8-1.5;1. 8-2.2 Renumber to 8~1.5.2. 8-2.3 Renumber to 8-1.5.3 and rewr i te so that i t now

reads: "8-1.5.3 In-Rack Storage Water Shields. I f in-rack

spr ink lers are not shielded by hor izonta l bar r ie rs , ' water shields shal l be provided above the spr ink lers or l i s t ed spr ink lers equipped with water shields shal l be used".

8-2.4 Delete. 8-2.4.1 Renumber to 8-1.5.4 and add paragraph t i t l e

"In-Rack Spr ink ler Clearance". 8-2.4.2 Delete. 8-2.4.3 Delete. 8-2.5 Renumber to 8-1.5.5. New "8-1.5.6 Chapters 1 through 5 apply to p last ics

storage".

727

8-3 Renumber to "8-2 Single, Double, and Hu l t l - row Racks-Storage up to and inc luding 25 f t (7.6 m) - Clearances up to and Inc luding 10 f t (3 m)".

8-3.1 Renumber to 8-2.1. Reword to read "s ing le , double, or mult i row racks" and "selected from Figures 8-2(a through j ) . Linear i n t e rpo la t i on of design densi t ies and areas of app l i ca t ion is permitted between storage height wi th the same clearances. No i n te rpo la t i on between clearances is pqrmit ted".

New "8-2.1.1 Single and Double Row Racks.- 1S f t (4.6 m) storage wi th Less than 5 f t (1.25 m) Clearance. The pro tec t ion st rategy u t i l i z i n g ce i l i ng spr ink lers only as shown in Figure 8-2(b) is acceptable only for s lngle and double row rack storage with 8 f t (2.4 m) a is les . For 3 1/2 f t (1 m) a ls les , a densi ty of 0.60 gpm~sq f t and an area of app l i ca t ion of 1500 sq f t (139.5 m L) shal l be used. For a i s le widths between 3 1/2 (1 m) and 8 f t (2.4 m), a d i rec t l l nea r i n te rpo la t i on may be made between dens i t ies and areas of app l i ca t ion " .

New "8-2.1.2 Single and Double Row Racks - 15 f t (4.6 m) Storage with 10 f t (3 m) Clearance. 20 f t (6 m) Storage with Less than 5 f t (1.25 m) Clearance. The protect ion s t ra teg ies u t i l i z i n g ce i l l ng spr lnk lers only as shown in Figures 8-2(c) 'and 8-2(d) are acceptable only fo r s lng le and double row rac~ storage wl t l l 8 f t (2.4 m) a is les . In-rack sp r ink le r pro tec t ion is required fo r a is les less than 8 f t (2.4 m) in width" .

New "8-2.1.2.1 When u t i l i z i n g the ce i l i ng spr ink lers only s t ra teg ies as shown in Figures 8-2(c) and 8-2(d) , column steel shal l be protected in accordance with paragraph 3-2.3(a) or (b). Roof s t ruc tura l steel shal l be protected in such a manner as to provide a minimum of 15 minutes f i r e res t ls tance" .

New "8-2.1.3 Hulti-Row Racks - 15 f t (4.6 m) Storage with Less than 5 f t (1.25 m) Clearance. The pro tec t ion strategy u t i l i z i n g ce i l i ng spr ink lers only as shown in Figure 8-2(b) is not acceptable for mul t i - row, rack storage. The densi ty ~o beused shal l be 0.60 gpm/sq f t over 2000 sq f t (186 m~). The indicated combination of ce i l l ng and in-rack spr ink lers in Figure 8-2(b) is an acceptable a l t e rna te " .

New "8-2.1.4 Hulti-Row Racks - 15 f t (4.6 m) Storage with 10 f t (3 m) Clearance. 20 f t (6 m) Storage with Less than 5 f t (1.25 m) Clearance. The protect ion s t ra teg ies u t i l i z i n g c e i l i n g spr ink lers only as shown in Figures 8-2(c) and 8-2(d) , are not acceptable fo r mul t i - row rack storage. 0nly the indicated combinations of c e i l i n g and in-rack spr ink lers can be used".

New "8-2.2 In-Rack Spr ink lers. In-rack spr ink lers shal l be i ns ta l l ed in accordance with Figures 8-2(a) through 8 - 2 ( j ) "

8-3.2 Delete. 8-3.3 Delete. 8-3.4 Delete. 8-4 through 8-4.4 Renumber to 8-3 through 8-3,4

respect ive ly . New "A-8 A l l rack f i r e tests of p las t ics were run

with an approximate 10 f t (3 m) maximum clearance between the top of storage and c e i l i n g spr ink le rs . Within 30 f t (9.1 m) high bu i ld ings, greater clearances above storage conf igurat ions should be compensated fo r by the add i t ion of more in-rack spr ink lers and/or the provis ion of greater areas of app l l ca t i on " .

8-8-1.4 Add the fo l low ing sentence: "However, a f t e r close review of a l l tes t data, the 231C Committee bel ieves that using intermediate of high temperature rated spr lnk lers w i l l not cause the demand areas to be any la rger than those designated in Chapter 8; therefore t h e i r use should be al lowed".

1-1 Rewrite the f i r s t two sentences to read as fo l lows:

"1-1 Appl icat ion and Scope. This standard appl ies to the storage of mater ia ls represent ing the broad range of commodities stored in racks. For storage of Class I through Class IV commodities (see Chapter 2 fo r d e f i n i t i o n s ) , stored less than 12 f t (3.7 m) high, or the storage of Group A p las t ics stored less than 5 f t (1.25 m) high, see NFPA 13, Standard fo r I n s t a l l a t i o n of Spr ink lers" .

- Strategies fo r Protect ion Rack Storage of Plast lcs - Single Row, Double Row & Mul t ip le Row Rack

Conf igurat ions Unexposed (Expanded and Unexpanded) Group A Plast ics

51o 10 Foot Storage

.30/2000 ceiling

< 5 foot clearance

D N D D

II/I/!11111

.45/2000 ceiling

5 to 10 foot clearance

/ / / / / I / i i f t

.45/2O0O ceiling

see 8-2.1.1. 8-2.1.2.1.8-2.1.3

Figure 8 - 2 ( a )

15 Foot Storage < 5 Foot Clearance

.30/2000 ceiling See Note 2 and figure 8-2(h)

N N F-1D N N

I I I I I I I I I I I

.6014000 ceiling see 8-2.1.2, 8-2.1.2.1, 8-2.1.4

0 D D

I I I I I I I I I I I Figure 8-2(b)

15 Foot Storage 5 to 10 Foot Clearance

30/2000 ceUlng See Note 2 and figure 8-2(h)

N N l-qr-1 r q N

IIIIii11111

D D 0 D D

D Q I I I I I I I I I I I

Figure 8-2(c)

728

20 FOOT STORAGE < 5 FOOT CLEARANCE

.60~000 ceiling See8-2.1.2,8-2.1.2.1 and 8-2.1.4

½ E]

[3 D D E] D E]

/ I / / I / / / / / /

.45/2000 coiling See Note 2 and figure 8-2(h)

[3[3

O 5 V ]

/I/I/ill/I/ Figure 8-;.2( d )

20 FOOT STORAGE 5 to 10 FOOT CLEARANCE

(See Note 5)

.45/2000 ceiling .30/2~0 coiling .3~20~ ceiling

See Note 2 See Note 4 See Note 4 and f~ure 8~(h) and f~ure 8-20) and figure 8-2~)

D D D D D D 0 • 0

D U D Q 5 D 0 × D D D D D D

X

D D D D D D / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /

Figure 8-2(e)

.30/2000 ceiling See Noto 3 and figure 8-2(i)

I-1I-1 D D

I-1I-1 © D

/ / / / / / / / / / /

.30/2000 ceiling

See Noto 3 and figure 8-2(i)

D D ½ D D D D D

/ / / / / / / / / / /

25 FOOT STORAGE < 5 FOOT CLEARANCE

(See Note 5)

.45/2000 coiling

See Note 3 and figuro 8-2(i)

D D D D Q D D D

r-1 D / / / / / / / / / / /

Figure 8-2(t")

.30/2000 ceiling

See Note 4 and figure 8-2(j)

D D 0 D D

Q ~ DxD D D

/ / / / / / / / / / /

25 FOOT STORAGE 5 tO 10 FOOT CLEARANCE

(See Note 5)

.30/2000 coiling

See Note 4 and figuro 8-2(j)

0

I-ti-1 D ~

x D D ~ D

I I I I I I I I I I I Figure 8-2(g)

729

One Level of In Rack Sprinklers -- Plan View Ordinary Spacing - See Note 2

SINGLE ROW RACK STORAGE

DOUBLE ROW RACK STORAGE

ND E] 5½E

I

MULTI-ROW RACK STORAGE

[ ~ I ~eFt~veen ~ ~ ~ ~Spr ink lers

Figure 8-2(h)

One Level of In Rack Sprinklers-Plan View Close Spacing--See Note 3

SINGLE ROW RACK STORAGE MULTI-ROW RACK STORAGE

I DN'Nfl]'N'D£ DOUBLE ROW RACK STORAGE

3[3[313131-11311 • a • ~ • e

-ININININI-1INE

X __ X _ _ X __

__ X i _ _ l ( __ ~

- - I( - - X " X - - - - X - - 8MaximumFt

_ _ _ _ : X _ _ _ _ I--( I Between K X ~ i Xi L ~ ~

Figure 8-2( i )

Two Levels of In Rack Sprinklers--Plan View Ordinary Spacing-See Note 2

SINGLE ROW RACK STORAGE

)DxE3 DE E3

DOUBLE ROW RACK STORAGE

3.N [3 [l] F113 IZ] E 0 X O X O X 0

ZIIN IN FIlN IN IN E

m

Z ~

z~

MULTI-ROW RACK STORAGE • LOADING AISLE

LOADING AISLE , Figure 8-2( j ) PLAN VIEW

Notes: 1. Such square in the f igures represents a storage cube measuring 4 to 5 f t (1.25 to 1.56 m) on a side. 2. Single ]eve] of in rack spr ink lers (1/2 or 17/32 inch operating at 15 psi minimum) ins ta l led on 8 to 10

foot spacings located, as indicated, in the transverse f lue spaces. 3. Single level of in rack spr inklers (17/32 inch operating at 15 psi minimum of 1/2 inch operating at 30 psi

minimum) ins ta l led on 4 to 5 f t (1.25 to 1.56 m) spacings located, as indicated, in the longi tudina] f lue space at the in tersect ion of every transverse f lue space.

4. Two levels of in rack sprinklered (1/2 or 17/32 inch operating at 15 psi minimum) ins ta l led on 8 to 10 fool (2.5 to 3.12 m) spacings located as indicated and staggered in the transverse f lue spaces.

5. Cei l ing only protect ion is not acceptable for th is storage conf igurat ion.

730

suBSTANTIATION: Many changes were editorial in nature, paragraph numbering.

8-2.1.2"was added as a result of reviewing a comparison of RSP tests Nos. 4, 7, and 16. These tests show a 3000 sq f t operating area which may be marginal design. Also, recent NFSA tests have proven there is a wide variety in the responses of various makes and models of l isted Standard Sprinklers.

Test 7 shows rather conclusively that when this storage array is protected by ceiling sprinklers only, steel protection is necessary.

8-2.1.2.1 was added after comparing RSP Test 2 to 4 and 16, and comparing SP test 22 to 18 and 19. The subcommittee concluded a 20/5 storage arrangement is equal to or less severe than a 15/10 storage arrangement.

Paragraphs 8-2.1.3 and 8-2.1.4 were added because the difference in protection requirements for multiple-row vs. double row rack storage are most severe when the multi-row rack is protected by ceiling sprinklers only. As stronger in-rack protection is provided, the differences in f i re growth and severity diminish when comparing double and multi-row rack storage. The subcommittee acknowledged this fact by severely restricting the protection options when multiple-row rack storage is to be protected by ceiling sprinklers only. However, once in-rack sprinklers are introduced (especially multiple levels), the subcommittee fe l t adequate protection has been achieved. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # 2) 231C- 21 - (8-1.4): Accept in Principle SUBMITTERi W. E. Wilcox, FMRC RECOMMENDATION: Revise to read:

8-1.4 Ceiling sprinklers shall be large ori f ice [17/32 in. (93.5 mm)] and ordinary or high. temperature rated.

Keep existing exceptions. S~BST~I.!AT~N: The use of high temperate rated ceiling sprinklers should be allowed. Although 165°F heads were used in tests of rack storage storage of plastics which formed the basis for this chapter, numerous tests of other commodities in racks and of plastics solid piled and palleti2ed were conducted using 286°F heas opened than 165°F heads. Also, the loss experience to date has shown that 286°F head perform admirably. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle,

See Committee Proposal 231C-20 (Chapter 8 Subcommittee proposal). COMMITTEE STATEMENT: This change was accomplished in the Committee Proposal.

(Log # I) 231C- 22 - (Table 8-3.1 Note 3): Accept in Principle SUBMITTER: Lee Paige, IRM Insur£~nce R_ECOMMENDATION: Revised text:

3. Clearance is the distance from the top of storage to the ceiling sprinkler deflectnrs. SUBSTANJIA__T_I~: The definition of clearance, as stated in 231 and231C, are different but pertain to similar commodities. I t is believed that the intent of the Committee was to define clearance as above, which is the 231 definition, and not as presently stated in 231C. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle.

See Committee Proposal 231C-20 (Chapter 8 Subcommittee Proposal). COMMITTEE STATEMENT: Committee Proposal deleted this note.

l (Log # 15)

231C- 23 - (8-1.4 Exception No. ;~): Accept SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: In 8-1.4 renumber existing Exception No. 2 as Exception No. 3.

Insert in i ts place the following: Exception No. 2: ESFR sprinklc~rs as indicated in

Chapter lO." SUBSTANTIATION: This gives proper reference to ESFR sprinklers to be covered in a new Chapter 10. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log # g) 231C- 24 - (Chapter 10): Accept SUBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: Add Chapter 10 to the l is t ing in 3-2.1. SUBSTANTIATION: This includes the new Chapter I0 propose~ for this edition of 231C. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 25 - (Chapter 10): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Change existing Chapters 10, 11 and 12 to Chapters 11, 12 and 13 respectively. Create a new Chapter lO as follows:

Chapter 10 Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) Sprinklers

lO-I General. I0-I.1" ESFR sprinklers shall be permitted for the

protection of cartoned plastics (Group A, B, or C) and Class I through IV commodities in single row, double row or multi-row racks up to a height of 25 f t .

Exception: ESFR protection is now defined does not apply to:

I, exposed plastics or expanded polystyrene plastics in cartons.

2. rack storage involving solid shelves. 3. rack storage involving combustible open top

cartons or containers. 10-1.2" ESFR sprinklers shall be permitted for use

in buildings having a maximum height of 30 f t and one of the following types of roof construction:

(a) smooth ceiling. (b) bar jo is t . (c) beam and girder. (d) panel. I0-I.3 Roof slope shall not exceed I/4 i n . / f t . 10-2 Sprinkler System Design. 10-2.1 ESFR sprinkler system shall be designed to

c rovide a minimum operating pressure of 50 psi (3.4 ars) to the twelve most hydraulically remote

sprinklers, based on flowing four sprinklers in each of three branch lines.

10-2.2 Only wet pipe systems are acceptable for use with ESFR sprinklers, i

I0-2,3 All requirements contained in NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, particularly Chapter 8, shall apply unless modified within this standard. 10-2.4 ESFR sprinklers shall be ordinary rated sprinklers.

Exception No. l : Those located in proximity to heat sources.

Except ion No. 2: Those located under s k y l i g h t s . 10-3 Water Demand. 10-3.1 A minimum of 250 gpm (16 L/s) shall' be added to the sprinkler demand for combined large and small hose streams. 10-3.2 Water supply duration shall be at least l hour. SUBSTANTIATION: The ESFR sprinkler has been fire-tested, l isted, and is recognized in the 1989 Edition of NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. A demand currently exists for i ts application over a variety of rack arrays and the above reflects the Committee's guidance on i ts use. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 26 - (A-5-4): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Delete A-5-4. SUBSTANTIATION: Limiting in-rack sprinklers to the exact same area as corresponding ceiling sprinklers is not fe l t to be practical or necessary in many cases. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 27 - (A-5-13.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Create new A-5-13.1 to read'as follows:

A-5-13.1 In NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems, paragraph A-4-4.10 states: "Slatting of deck~ or walkways or the use of open grating as a substitute for automatic sprinkler thereunder is not acceptable."

731

Also when shelving of any type is employed, i t is for the basic purpose of .providing an intermediate support between the structural members of the rack. As a result, i t becomes almost impossible to define and maintain transverse flue spaces across the rack as required in 4-3.1 and i l lust rated in Figure 4-3.1. SUBSTANTIATION: As the result of public inquiries on the subject of slatted shelves, the Committee concluded that this additional c la r i f i ca t ion was needed in the Appendix. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 28 - (A-8): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: All f i r e tests were run with approximately a 10 f t clearance to the automatic sprinkler. Within 30 f t buildings, higher clearances to storage configurations should be compensated for, by the provisions of additional in-rack sprinklers and/or greater areas of applications. SUBSTANTIATION: This was added to give some guidance on clearances greater than 10 f t . COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

231C- 2g - (A-I0.I (New)): Accept ~.UBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDA_TI_ON: Add new A-I0.I as follows:

"A-t0.1 ESFR sprinklers were designed to respond quickly to growing f i res and deliver heavy discharge to "suppress" f i res rather than "control" them. ESFR sprinklers cannot be relied upon to provide suppression i f they are used outside these design parameters." $~BST~N~A~OH: This was added to give the reader information regarding the l imitations of ESFR sprinklers. CQMMIT~E~_AACTION: Accept.

231C- 30 - (A-I0.2 (New)): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Rack Storage of Materials RECOMMENDATION: Add new A-I0.2 as follows:

"A-I0.2 Design parameters were determined from a series of fu l l scale f i r e tests conducted as a jo in t e f fo r t between Factory Matual and the National Fire Protection Research Foundation. (Copies of the tests report are available from the National Fire Protection Research Foundation.)" SVBSTANTIATI(~N: To give the reader more information on the f i r e tests and the source to find further information. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. 0

(Log # 14)' 231C- 31 - (B-6-4.1 and B-6-4.3): Accept S_UBMITTER: J. S. Barr i t t , Eastham, MA RECOMMENDATION: Change "B-6-4.3" to "B-6.4.1." SUBSTANTIATION: The f i re test cited is more correctly a reference for paragraph 6-4.1. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

Editorial Corrections

I. In Figure 7-I0.2(a), add a t i t l e : "Class I, I I , I l l , or IV."

2. In Figures 7-I0.3(b), (c) and (d) reverse the position of the planand elevation view and add "elevation" and "plan" to each figure.

PART I I

232- 1 - (I-6 File Processing Area (New)): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATXON: Add new def in i t ion to I-6.

File Processing Area. A work surface used for preparing records for f i l i ng , retrieving records from or f i l i n g records to storage. SUBSTANTIATION: File Processing Area is used in the standard and should be defined. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 2 - (I-6 File Room): Accept SUBMITT~R: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add a sentence to File Room as follows:

"An ordinary f i l e room ut i l izes to ta l ly enclosed storage devices; an open shelf f i l e room uses open shelving and additional protection features". SUBSTANTIATION: The difference in the various types of f i l e rooms. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 3 - (I-6 Mobile Shelving): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Revise the last sentence to read:

"Mobile shelving is usually a type of open-shelf f i l e equipment". SUBSTANTIATION: To indicate that mobile shelving is not always open-shelf type. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 4 - (I-6 Records Classes(a)): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Revise Records Classes(a) as follows:

"Vital records are those which are irreplaceable or which contain information for which the temporary unavai labi l i ty could constitute a serious legal or business impairment. Examples are records of which a reproduction can not be substituted for the or iginal; records needed to sustain the business promptly or to recover monies with which to replace buildings equipment, and raw materials, finished goods and work in process; and records needed to avoid delay in restoration of production, sales and service". SUBSTANTIATION: The def in i t ion was revised for c lar i ty . COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 5 - (I-6 Records Classes(b)): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATI__O_N: Revise Records Classes(b) as follows:

"Important records are those of which a reproduction, while acceptable as a substitute for the or iginal , could be obtained only at considerable expense and labor or only af ter considerable delay". SUBSTANTIATION: The def in i t ion was revised for c lar i ty. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 6 - (I-6 and A-l-6 ): Accept SUBMITTF~_R: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add an "*" to I-6 Records Classes.

Add new A-1-6 as follows: "Records of-exceptionally high intensive value, such

as f lnancial 'secur l t ies or records which are also rare ar t i facts may require individualized protection measures outside the scope of this standard. Record essential to the reconstruction of other records should also be considered for special protection". SUBSTANTIATION: This wi l l give the reader more information on the various types of records. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

732

232- 7 - (2-7.5.4): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Revise this paragraph as follows:

"Wall penetrations for sprinkler, electric l ighting and limited energycircults shall be as small as possible and shall be sealed with approved or l isted f i re rated material to prevent smoke, heat, flame . . . " . SUBSTANTIATION: Approved or l isted f i re rated material is desired for sealing of penetrating sprinklers was added for i t ' s penetrations. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 8 - (2-8.3 (New)): Accept ~ M I ! ] ~ : Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add 2-8.3:

The door locking mechanism shall be of a type enabling a person accidentally locked inside the vault Lo opet~ the door e a s i l y from the i ns i de .

NOTE: Interior emergency ll!jhting may be necessary. ~gB_STANTIATION: To be consistent wlth the vault requl remen t s. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 9 - (2-1.3.1 Note): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records REC~MMEFFEAT_~X_O~: Replace " f i l e rooms" with "vaults." S_~JBSTANTIATI__Q_~: Editorial correction. ~_O_M_MITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 10 - (2-14.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOL4M_.~NDAT_~: De le te " they may he pro tec ted by , providing" from 2-14.1, and add "shall be permitted" at the end of the paragraph. SUBSTANTIATIO_FF: To conform to the NFPA style manual and to clar i fy sprinklers are permitted. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 11 - (2-14.2): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add a new sentence to the end of 3-14.2 as follows:

"In accordance with 2-11;3, electr ical ly operated mobile shelving is not permitted". ~UBSTANTIATION: This sentence was added to reiterate the requirement to restr ict the use of electrical equipment in the vault. CO MM_IT_TEE A~TION: Accept.

232- 12 - (3-I, A-3.1.2): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECqMM~gA!IO_N: Revise 3-I and A-3.1,2 as follows:

Chapte~ 3 File Rooms 3-1 General. 3-1.1 A l l f i l e rooms sha l l be prov ided wi th an

automatic sprinkler protection. Exception: Sprinklers are not required protection where a11 storage is in six-sided noncombustible containers.

3-1.2" File rooms shall be used exclusively for the storage and handling of important records, and shall be so equipped, maintained and operated as to minimize the effects of fires of both internal and external origin. Vital records shall not be stored in a f i l e room.

NOTE: [See present text under paragraph 3-1.3]. 3-1.3 To minimize the effects of fires of both

internal and external origin, a f i l e room shall be constructed and operated as specified herein and according to the ratings in Chapter 5.

A-3.1.2 Volumes of v i ta l records too small to require a standard vault should not be exposed to the severe f ire loading present in a f i l e room, even when i t is protected by an automatic f i re suppression system. Such records could be s tored in app rop r ia te flre-rated f i l e devices in an ordinary office environment, which presents a lesser f i re exposure.

SUBSTANTIATION: 3-3 was modified to add the i requirements For f i l e rooms with open shelves. Open shelf f i l e rooms suggest a f i re hazard different from that of f i l e rooms with non-combustible metal containers. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 13 - (3-1.5): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Delete 3-1.5. SUBSTANTIATION: The requirements of this paragraph are incorporated into the Chapter 3 rewrite. See proposal 232-12. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 14 - (3-2.1): Accept ~UI}~J~[B: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add "in consultation with a licensed Fire Protection Englne@r". ~UBSTANTIATION: A Fire Protection Engineer should be consulted on al l issues pertaining to f i re protection. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 15 - (3-2.3): Accept ~UBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of:Records RECOMMENDATION: Add an exception to 3-2.3 as foilows:

"Exception: Underground storage and basement Storage areas specifically designed by licensed f i re protection engineers to mitigate the inherent problems of sub-terraneam storage". SUBSTANTIATION: To accomodate the existance of underground storage. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 16 - (3-2.4): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Delete 3-2.4. Renumber accordingly. SUBSTANTIATION: Outside the jurisdiction of tile standard. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 17 - (3-3): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection oflRecords RECOMMENDATION: Revise 3-3 as follows:

"File rooms shall not exceed 50,000 c u f t (1416 m 3) in volume", _S_U_BSTANTIATION: The ceiling height should not be limited as long as the sprinkler system can be designed f o r the he igh t , i

'COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 18 - (3-6.3.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add "sealing requirements of 2-7.5.4 shall be followed", to the end of 3-6.3.1. SUBSTANTIATION: Penetrations should be sealed with a l i s t of approved material. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 19 - (3-I0.2): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Change 3-10.2 to read:

" . . . preclude the use of temporary l ighting". SUBSTANTIATION: Temporary l ighting is more encompassing. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

733

232- 20 - (3-I0.3 Exception (New)): Accept SUBMITIER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add an Exception as follows:

"Exception: File maintenance equipment specifically designed and locally cert i f ied for instal lation and use". ~UBSTANTIATION: To a l low f o r f i r e maintenance equipment used f o r f i l e r e t r i e v a l to be used in the File room. CpMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 21 - (3-12 and 3-13): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Protectlon of Records ~E~.OMMENDATION: Revise 3-12 and 3-13 as follows:

3-12 Fire Suppression and Signaling Equipment. 3-12.1 All f i l e rooms shall be provided with an

automatic sprinkler f i re extinguishing system except where al l storage is in six-sided noncombustible contal hers.

3-12.1.1 (Modified, 3-13.1, second paragraph) conveniently located . . . extinguished with note [3-13.1].

3-12.1.2 Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and Installed in accordance with the provisions of NFPA 13, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems, which systems in f i l e rooms having open-shelf f i l e equipment shall be hydraulically designed for Ordinary Hazard (Group 3) occupancy.

3-12.2 [See present paragraph 3-13.3]. 3-12.3 Smoke detection systems, connected to call

the f i re department when activated, shall be provided for the following:

(a) File rooms having open-shelf f i l e equipment, including mobile shelvlng, which has concealed spaces more than 6 f t (1.8 m) wide.

(b) File rooms having al l storage in six-slded noncombustible containers and a f i l e processing area not exceeding 10 percent of the total f i l e room floor area.

3-12.4 [See present paragraph 3-13.5]. 3-13 Operating Practices. 3-13.1 [See present paragraph 3-12.3]. 3-13.2 [See present paragraph 3-12.4]. Add: "Exception No. I: Fully sprinklered f i l e rooms. Exception No. 2: F i l e rooms with smoke detection and

al l storage in six-sided noncombustible containers". 3-13.3 [See present 3-12.2]. 3-13.4 [See present 3-12.5]. 3-13.5 [See present 3-12.6]. 3-13.6 [See present 3-12.7]. Add: "Exception: Where sprinklers are located in each

aisle". ~VB~.L~_TIATIO__~: These paragraph were modified for c lar i ty. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 22 - (Figure 4-3.1): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Delete "5-hr" from the caption. SUBSTANTIATION: A f i re of other duration could have the same results. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 23 - (4-3.3): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Replace "valuable" with "vi tal or important". SUBSTANTIATION: To be consistent with the rest of the standard. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 24 - (A-3-2.3): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOM~EI~D~T_IO_FF: Revise A-3-2.3 as follows:

"Underground f i l e rooms . . . (within practlcal limltations) underground storage imposes risk factors such as inacessibi l i ty, delayed or impaired access, smoke and heat ventilation, water accumulation, and avai lab i l i ty of safe refuge. SUBSTANTIATION: To inform the designer of typical considerations when designing underground stroage. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 25 - (A-4-3.3): Accept SVBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Change "valuable" to "v i ta l or important" in the second paragraph. SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 26 - (A-5.I.1 Part 8): Accept $UBMITTER: Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: In part 8 add "self closing" between use and metallic. SUBSTANTIATION: A self closing container is desireable to reduce the change of open COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232- 27 - (Appendix B): Accept ~ : Technical Committee on Protection of Records RECOMMENDATION: Add:

ANSI/ACMI NQA-I, 1986 Qballty Insurance Program Requirements for Nuclear Faci l i t ies. SUBSTANTIATION: For additional information. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

734

PART I I I

232AM- I - (Entire Standard): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Archives and Records Centers RECOMMENDATION: Revise the entire standard as follows:

Chapter I Introduction

I-I Scope. This manual applies to collections of r~cords in f i l e rooms exceeding 50,000 c u f t (1416 m a) and to a11 archives and records centers.

Since its adoption in 1947, NFPA 232, Standard for the Protection of Records, has been the recognized standard for protection of records against f i re. However, i t is concerned primarily with relatively small quantities of records kept immediately accessible to tile originator or user.. NFPA 232AM covers fac i l i t ies larger than contemplated in NFPA 232.

I-2 Purpose. The purpose of this manual is to provide guidance for firesafe storage in archives and records centers where the size dr character of the records holdings is not contemplated in NFPA 232 and to give archivists, records managers, and:others charged with safeguarding large collections the information they r~eed to intel l igent ly plan for f i re protection.

.I-3 Definitions. For the purpose of this manual, the followlng terms have the meanings indicated.

File Room. An area for the storage and reference of current records.

Records Center. A building or enclosure for the reteution and reference of semicurrent records pending their ultimate disposition.

Archives. Noncurrent records preserved because of their historic value. Also applied to the building, structure, or enclosure where they are deposited or retalrled.

Chapter 2 General

Z-I Types of Record Media. Th is manual concerns traditional paper records and records on magnetic, photographic, micrographlc, and other special media. I t is not possible to assure total f i re protection of records in archives and records center fac i l i t ies . I t is possible, however, to'provlde a very high level of f ire protection that would normally l imi t the potential loss of records in such fac i l i t ies to a small amount. In view of this, i t is important that the archivist or records manager knows the degree ofprotection available or, conversely, the degree of potential damage from the protection systems available for the archives or records center and determine which, i f any, of the records need a higher level of protection available from the use of special vaults, safes, or insulated containers (see NFPA 232, Standard for the PreLectlon of Records). I t is essential that storage of cellulose nitrate film is not permitted in archives or records centers. (See NFPA 40, Standard for the Storage and Handling of Cellulose Nitrate Motion Picture Film, and NFPA 232.)

2-2 Arrangement. Storage devices include, but are not limited to, traditional f i l e cabinets, records storage boxes (corrugated or solid fiberboard cartons), transfer cases, and miscellaneous containers of varying construction. The usual arrangement is either cartons on freestanding shelving or f i l i ng cabinets. Locations may vary from a separate area within a general office complex to especially constructed records fac i l i t ies . I t is not uncommon to find records stored in basements or att ics, in office spaces, in factories or warehouses, or in underground or other readily available fac i l i t ies , , al l 'of various constructions and levels of firesafety. Keeping all records storage at least 3 in. (76 mm) above the floor wi l l minimize the effect of flooding.

2-3 Fire Risk Evaluation Factors. In considering the protection of records stored in mass, several basic items to be evaluated are:

NFPA 232AM

(a) .Exposure from the building housing the records, from nearby buildings, or from neighboring operations; i .e . , the possibi l i ty of involving the records in a f i re originating outside of the records fac i l i t y ; I

(b) Potential of f i re in i t ia t ion within the records fac i l i t y , including the susceptibil i ty of the records or containers to ignition;

(c) Potential of f i re development presented by the stored records themselves, particularly as i t relates to the available or proposed f i re control capabilities or mechanisms;

(d) Potential impact of f i re development in the stored records to the housing structure and adjacent operations;

(e) Fire control systems with the resultant extent andtype of damage from f i re, f i re effects (heat, smoke, etc.), and f i re extinguishing efforts (principally water and physical disruption of records necessary to effect manual f i re fighting); and

(f) Potential l i f e threat to occupants and f i re service personnel.

2-4 Exposure. A maximum amount of care or the most sophisticated of protection systems within the records storage area would be of l i t t l e avail for records stored within a structure that burns as a result of some action or operation outside of the records area. A consideration of any archivist or records manager is the potential of the records being the victim of f ire in i t ia t ing external to the operations. The degree of additional risk imposed by neighbors varies according to the type and height of the building, the nature or hazard of the neighbors, and the type of protection the neighboring operations have. Any reasonable degree of protection for records stored in mass in any multistory building needs f i re-resist ive construction adequately designed towithstand the maximum f i re impact of the exposing occupancy within. The same applies to single story buildings unless a proper f i re wall separates the records area fromthe remainder of the building. When records must be housed in a building that may burn around them, properly rated vaults, safes, or insulated containers capable of resisting a total burnout (see NFPA 232, Standard for the Protection of Records) are the only known means of protection that can g i v e reasonable assurance of records recovery. When a separate building or a segregated floor or section of a f i re-resist ive building is used for records storage, however, the methods described in the following ! chapters would provide a degree of protection commensurate with the type of system selected.

2-5 Facil i ty Design. The inherent risks in the ; storage of large quantities of records and the : requirement to incorporate appropriate passive and active systems to deter, detect, contain, and control records storage fires mandate that an experienced and competent f i re protection engineer be consulted regarding the design of new fac i l i t i es or major alterations to existing fac i l i t ies .

2-6 Fire Prevention Program. The most important factor in preventing f i re loss in records fac i l i t ies is the maintenance of a good f i re prevention program based on good housekeeping, orderliness, maintenance of equipment, and absolute prohibition of smoking or use of open flame devices. All of these items are fundamental precepts of good records management.• Experience has shown, however, that regardless of how careful or complete the f i re prevention program, the risk of f i re in i t ia t ion through either human error or situations beyond the control of the archivist or records manager (such as lightning striking the fac i l i t y ) is a dist inct possibi l i ty, and any program based entirely on f i re prevention act iv i t ies will. be perpetually at risk of a major disaster.

2-7 Operations in Records Storage Areas. Work within records storage areas is normally limited to placing records in, retrieving records from, or removing

records from storage. Any additional operations may

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introduce ignition hazards and may be inappropriate in records storage areas. In archlved fac i l i t ies , records storage areas shall be separated from processing areas, offices, and research rooms by a proper f i re wall. Records center fac i l i t i es involve considerably more staff act iv i ty in the records storage areas. Whenever records centers and archives are within the same fac i l i ty , the archlved storage area should be separated from tile records center storage area by a f i re wall.

Other f i re risks in the records storage areas can be reduced by:

(a) Tile use of manual instead of power-operated equipment;

(b) Tile use of electric instead of gas-fueled fork l i f t s ;

(c) Prohibiting the use of portable space heaters, lights on extension cords, hot plates, coffee makers, duplicating devices, battery chargers, welding or cutting torches, and other such ignition sources w~thln storage areas;

(d) Prohibiting the storage of oi ls, paints, or other flammables in or contiguous to the records areas.

2-8 Fire Retardant Treatments. Some attempts have been made to develop economical methods of increasing the f i re resistance of typical records storage cartons. The most frequently attempted method is coating tile cartons with an intumescent type of f i re retardant paint. Tests of cartons protected by such palnt properly applied show that the coating prevents actual ignition of the cardboard. However, intumescent paint does not intumesce effectively under about 400"F (204°C). The temperature of even a small exposure f i re (such as might occur on a l ibrary cart) would weaken the paper in the box to the point where the box would break open under the weight of the paper i t contains, exposing the ordinary combustible paper contents of the box. Similar results have occurred in tests of boxes that have been covered with aluminum ful l with the additional effect of transmission of the heat through the aluminum, causing ignition of the cardboard carton beneath i t . In a small-scale test conducted as a jo int effort of the NFPA Committee on Record Protection and the U.S. General Services Administration, the effect of f i re retardant paint coating on boxes demonstrated a very brief delay only in the ignition and development of f i re up and across the face of the records storage. In essence, the fact that paper is in the form of a records container does not change i ts inherent characteristic of easy ignition and rapid f i re development.

Chapter 3 Fire Characteristics

3-I Metal Containers.

3-1.1 Fire In i t iat ion. In some fac i l i t i es al l of the records are kept in metal f i l e equipment or equivalent metal containers (closed on six sides), and the arrangement, housekeeping, and operational methods prohibit the maintenance of any combustible materials whatsoever outside of the steel containers. Where the surrounding building and all materials involved in i t are noncombustible, the risk of f i re or the possibi l i ty of f ire development may be considered to be the burnout of one drawer and damage to the materials in the surrounding drawers above, below, behind, and beside the drawer of origin where:

(a) All of the records are kept exclusively in metal f i l e cabinets or equivalent metal cabinets (closed on al l six sides);

(b) The arrangement, housing, and operational methods prohibit combustible materials outside of the metal containers; and

(c) The surrounding buildings and al l materials involved in them are noncombustible.

3-1.2 Fire Development. Where al l of the records housed are contained within closed metal f i l e equipment, transfer cases, or similar containers

(whether or not of the insulated type) such that no fuel is exposed to flames outside the containers, and there are no other combustibles in the area, there would not be any significant f i re development from most in i t ia t ing sources. Fire spread from a significant ignition source would be very slow.

3-2 Open Shelving.

3-2.1 Fire In i t iat ion. Records fac i l i t ies use various shelf f i l i ng equipment, normally with the records either,contalned simply in f i l e folders or in various styles of open or closed cartons. Typically, rows of records face each other across long service aisles about 30 in. (76.2 cm) in width. The exposed faces present a wall of paper. Paper has an ignition temperature of approximately 450"F (232°C). Where exposed f i l e s are invo lved, the loose ends of the papers or the edge of the f i l e fo lders can be tgnt ted almost i n s t a n t l y by any source ranging from a match to a faulty fluorescent ballast or by direct contact with an exposed incandescent l ight bulb. Because of their mass, closed cartons resist ignition sl ight ly longer, but there is a good probability that a slmple match could ignite them. Ignition of a few pieces of paper, such as might occur on a service cart, could readily ignite the faces of the boxes.

3-2.2 In i t ia l Fire Development. Where records are stored on open-type shelving, i t can be expected that f i re development would occur and would approximate a typical pattern of development demonstrated in tests conducted on high-piled storage by Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Factory Mutual Research Corporation, and in tests conducted on 6- i t (I.8-m) high archives shelving arrangements by the U.S. General Services Administration. In each instance the in l t la t ln~ f i re was small (2 pounds of paper lald on the floor in the Underwriters Laboratories test, I/2 pt (0.24 L )o f heptane on cellucotton in an open carton of records in the Factory Mutual tests, and two open cartons of records on a l ibrary cart in the U.S. General Services Administration test). The in i t i a l f i re development progressed for a brief period at a low level, producing the type of f i re that could be approached and easily extinguished i f pPomptly discovered. The period of low-level development lasted between a minimum of about 3 minutes to a maximum of about 12 tO 15 minutes, with the average about 5 minutes, During this period the f i re was directly approachable, heat levels were not high; however, significant quantities of smoke were produced. The temperature levels at the ceiling were sufficiently low so that i t is unlikely that any heat-reacting f i re detection devices would have signaled the presence of f i re. In view of the relatively large smoke production, smoke detectors could have detected such a f i re early in i ts development. In tests with 14-it (4.3-m) open shelving, smoke detectors operated within 30 seconds to 1 minute, but f i re was judged to be beyond portable extinguisher control in less than 3 minutes, providing l l t t l e just i f icat ion for the cost of instal l ing smoke detection systems in this case.

3-2.3 Full Fire Development. By the end of the r e l a t i v e l y short ear ly development stage in each of the tests described above, a s u f f i c i e n t number of the exposed boxes had been preheated so that the f i r e development cha rac te r i s t i c s changed suddenly, the temperatures increased rap id l y , and the flames enveloped large areas, extending almost immediately beyond human approach and c a p a b i l i t y of at tack by simple por tab le ex t ingu ishers . F i re development moved rap id l y from th is po in t . In each of these cases a f i r e

• control mechanism was being tes ted, and the f i r e s w e r e not al lowed to progress to t h e i r u l t imate po ten t l a l .

In some Factory Mutual tes ts , however, loose records in boxes were released by the f i r e and ex fo l l a t ed in to the a i s l e , p rov id ing very rapid acce lera t lon of the f i r e and something approaching f u l l f i r e development in a l lm i ted area, perhaps 60-70 sq f t (5.6-6.5 m ). On the other hand, in the same tes t ser ies a f i r e tes t was conducted in which a l l of the papers were or iented perpendicular to the a i s l e and stored loose on edge in shelv ing 14 f t (4.3 m) high. The box f ronts were

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removed to expose the loose paper edges. Contrary to expectations, the f i re developed slowly and was never beyond control of modest local forces employing small hose. Prevention of exfollation of burning paper apparently served to avoid the dramatic increase in f i r e i n t e n s i t y .

3-2.4 Fire Severity Potential. Unless f i re development is stopped by either manual Or automatic f i re extinguishment, the entire records storage in one room or floor could quickly become involved in f i re. The extension of the f i re and the extent of damage would be directly related to the total quantity of combustibles involved. The severity of a f i re is apprqxlmately I hour for each 10 Ibs per sq f t (49 kg/m ~) of gross weight of combustibles involved. The weight of paper in a typical recnrds storage area is equixalent to approximately lO Ibs per sq f t (49 kg/m L) for each shelf height of storage. A typical center with records stored 7 shelves high contains approximately 70 Ibs of fuel per sq f t (342 kg/m ~) of floor area, and in one where records are stored 15 shelves high, the weigh~ of paper would approximate 150 Ibs per sq f t (732 kg/m~). In either case, there are no traditional types of f i re-reslst ive construction capahle of withstanding the total impact of burnout. This is particularly important in any case where records are stored in a multistory building.

3-Z.5 Inherent Fire Capacity. Any archives or records centers using open-type shelving have the inherent capability of not. only self-destruction of the records holdings but also destruction of the fac i l i t y i tse l f and the neighboring operations unless al l fires are stopped in their early stages.

3-3 Mobile Shelving.

3-3.1 Fire In i t ia t ion. Records fac i l i t ies in which shelving is mounted on rollers, usually on tracks, are used to conserve space. One a i s l e is prov ided f o r a se r ies o f she lv ing u n i t s , and, to gain access to a particular shelf, units are moved manually or by a motor until the aisle appears at the desired shelf unit. Ignition sources are simi%ar to those in open-type shelving but with the added potential of an ignition source from the electric drive units. Slow-developing, burrowing fires may be expected except" in the exposed aisle, where a f i re would be similar to that in open-type shelving.

3-3.2 In i t ia l Fire Development. Tests conducted by Factory Mutual Research Corporation for the U.S. General Services Administration (md U.S. Library of Congress indicated that fires originating in the open aisle could be expected to follow the pattern of open shelving fires in in i t ia l development and quickly involve both faces. The length and height of mobile units is determined by available space, loaded weight, access time, and other factors. For practical reasons, 25 f t (7.6 m) is a practical l imi t for length. Fire spread down an open aisle with facing combustible storage is l ike ly to be rapid. Fire spread tunneling through, the shelving array is l ike ly to be very slow, giving some opportunity for control and extinguishment by a public f i re department i f ti~e f i re is discovered and reported promptly.

3-3.3 Fire Severity Potential. The potential for a total hurnout of a records fac i l i t y is exactly the same as for a similar amount of records on open shelving, except that for a f i re to spread beyond control of a municipal f ire department wi l l t~ke considerably longer with mobile shelving.

3-3.4 Inherent Fire Capacity. Like records stored on open shelving, records stored on mobile shelving have the inherent capability to self-destruct and destroy the Facility i tse l f . Slow spread of a f i re within the shelves improves the chance of outside aid being effective.

Chapter 4 Fire Control

4-I General. The basic elements of f i re control are two-fold - - detection of the fact: that a f i re exists plus its extinguishment. The individual efficiency and

c a p a b i l i t y o f both the de tec t i on and ext inguishment ac t ions determine the u l t ima te degree of sa fe t y or , converse ly , the ex ten t o f damage in case o f f i r e .

4-2 Water. Most a r c h i v i s t s o r records managers have a very significant concern about water damage. In view of the constant problems involved in leakage of domestic water systems, steam mains, rain intrusion from leaky roofs or windows, and the resultant damages from mildew or decomposition of paper, this concern is readily understood. I t is important," however, for the archivist or records manager to realize that wet records can be recovered, but burned records cannot. Also, unless there is a specialized f i re extinguishing s~stem to control the development and growth of a f i re, responding f i re fighting forces Would have no choice but to attack the f i re with f i re department hose streams. In many records fac i l i t ies the quantity of paper fuel involved is such that the f i re department would have to attack a f i re from a distance and under very adverse conditions. This would normally force the department to use heavy hose streams having the characteristics of a hydraulic ram. Wide and forceful disruption of the records storage arrangement would be a normal effect of efforts to prevent total destruction.

4-3 Salvage. Recovering wet records is a problem whether the records are wet or damp as a result of a f i re or from another source, such as flood, hurricane, heavy rainstorm, roof leakage, spillage from operations located above, or a breakdown of any of the numerous water or steam systems in the building. Virtual ly any wet paper records can be recovered, provided prompt and proper action is taken. Effective salvage requires prompt action, special techniques, fac i l i t ies , ' and expert advice. Preplanning is essential.

NOTE: Archivists and records managers interested in pursuing this point further should obtain a copy of NFPA 910, Recommended Practice for the Protection of Libraries and Library Collections from Fire, which contains Appendix E on "Salvage of Wet Books," and the Federal Fire Council Recommendation Practice No. 2, "Salvaging and Restoring Records Damaged by Fire and Water" is available from the Clearinghouse, U.S. Department of Commerce, Sprlngfleld, Virginia 22151. Salvage of wet records from the 1973 f i re at the Military Personnel Records Center, St. Louis, Missouri, is treated in considerable detail in the July 1974 NFPA Fire 3ournal and the October.1974 AmeriCan Archivist. Also useful as background material is the publication Conservation of Library Materials, a manual and bibliography on the care, repair, and restoration of l ibrary materials by George M. and Dorothy G. Cunha, (Metuchen, N3: The Scarecrow Press, Inc., 1971; two volumes; LC #77-163871). Volume I is the manual and Volume I I is the bibliography.

4-4 Fire Extinguishers. Regardless of other types of f i re extinguishment systems provided, i t is essential that every records storage fac i l i t y be provided with an adequate supply of well-dlstrlbuted Class A portable f i re extinguishers suitable for extinguishing fires in paper and plastic records. I t is desirable that the type of extinguishers provided be the trigger action type in which the flow can be started and stopped by the operator. More thorough coverage of extinguishers is provided in NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers. Gaseous extinguishers are not effective for extinguishing deep-seated fires in paper materials. The presence of proper extinguishers would enable the working or guard force, on discovering a f i re or responding to an alarm from an early warning detection system, to attack and extinguish the f ire while i t is small, with minimum damage to the records. I t is important that such local forces are properly instructed in the use of small extinguishing appliances.

4-5 Fire Departments. The f i re department is an essential part of any f i re protection. The role that the f i re department plays depends on the type and capabilities of an automaticextinguishment system. Where no extinguishing system is provided and total dependence is placed on the f i re department for control

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of any f i re that exceeds the capabilities Of persons using hand extinguishers, i t could be expected that the f ire department would be forced to make a massive attack because of the size and position of the f i re at the time of arr ival. The actions of f i re fighters are limited by their tolerance to heat and smoke. "To reach the actual seat of the f i re, the f i re department may undertake actions disruptive or damaging to records that are not actually burning. Rows of records may block access to th e seat of the f i re. High density smoke may conceal the seat of the f i re. To save the structure and to prevent propagation of the f i re to other areas, i t may be necessary for the f i re fighters to disrupt the storage arrangement in unlgnited areas to obtain access to the ignited area or to place high-pressure hose streams in a general sweeping action, attempting to provide a general cooling/quenching effect. In any sizable records fac i l i ty the total fuel would cert~linly require the use of heavy hose streams (in some communities f i re departments have the capability and would l ike ly use monitor- or snorkle-type hose streams). Properly constructed f i re walls (confining the f i re to a single f i re area) would assist a f i re department in l imit ing the size of a f i re. All of the records within the f i re area would probably be seriously affected by either f i re or water from the high pressure streams or both.

4-6 Role of Fire Department and Extinguishing Systems. When an automatic extinguishing system of proper design is provided, the role of the f i re department changes to one of assisting and supplementing the automatic extinguishing system, rather than direct f i re attack.

4-6.1 I f the system is an automatic sprinkler system, tile primary actlons of the f i re department would be to supplement the water supply, determine the proper time to discontinue the flow of water, extinguish f i re in any small, shielded areas that the sprinkler system could not reach, and overhaul the actual burned areas to prevent rekindling or reignition. For additional information see NFPA 13E, Recommendations for Fire Department Operations in Properties Protected by Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems.

4-6.2 Where a total flooding carbon dioxide or Halon 1301 system is provided and has been successful in i ts operation, the prime purpose of the f i re department would be to vent the gas and to prevent the possibi l i ty of rekindling by ~etting and removing the materials that were actually ignited. The phaslngout of the carbon dioxide gas is a cr i t ica l period, and, unless the smothering action has been to ta l ly effective, rekindling of a serious f i re can occur. This is a very cr i t ical point and should be executed-only with the ful l capabilities of the f i re department standing in readl ness.

4-6.3 I f high expansion foam is used, the operation of tile f ire department would be to assist in removal of the foam and to extinguish any small glows (deep-seated fires) or flames that may be found asthe foam is removed. Depending on the situation, i t may be desirable to continue the presence of the high expansion foam for a soaking period. The period of time that the foam is kept in place, however, affects the degree of wetting. I t is, therefore, desirable that overhaul procedures be carried out rapidly but cautiously, with extinguishing equipment standing by in readiness.

4-7 Fire Department Preplanning. Essential in al l systems of f i re control is f i re department preplanning for attack in specific locations. I t is important that the archivist or records manager contact the appropriate chief off icer of the responding f i re department and work out preflre planning arrangements with him. The best extinguishing system can be defeated i f a f i re officer, for lack of proper knowledge, makes improper use of i t or prematurely removes an automatic system from operation. Conversely, lack of knowledge and a sense of caution may cause him to keep an extinguishing system in operation for an excessive period of time, increasing damage to the records from the extinguishing agent.

Chapter 5 Fire Control Systems

5-I Detection.

5-1.1 General. In any f i re control system the f i rs t step should be the detection of the presence of f i re with immediate notif ication of emergency response forces, including the f i re department. (See Section 5-5.) A number of different methods of detection are available, ranging from highly sophisticated devices for almost immediate detection of products of combustion to dependence on passersby. Detection of f i re, while v i t a l l y important, does not in i tse l f prevent f i re damage. Detection must be followed by extinguishment, which includes the use of f i re extinguishers or other f i r s t aid f i re appliances by personnel or guards of the fac i l i t y , attack by the f i re department using the various manually directed appliances at i ts disposal, or control by automatic suppression systems, such as sprinklers, carbon dioxide, or halon. The capabilit ies and efficiency of each. of these systems vary signif icantly and can also affect the extent of f i re damage.

5-1.2 Human Detection Capabilities. An evaluation of the various methods of f i re detection wil l recognize that any detection system that relies only on casual observation by persons external to the records storage is undependable, and a fac i l i t y that depends upon detection by passersby is at risk of total burnout. Some record centers assign responsibility for f i re detection by providing watchmen or guards around the clock or a combination of employee responsibility during the workday and watchmen or guards during the remainder of the period. While this approach is superior to dependence on casual observation, i t must be considered very limited. (The major f i re at the Mil i tary Records Center in St. Louis was f i r s t reported by a passerby, although the building had guard patrols.) As previously described, the period during which such observation could detect and react to a small f i re situation is quite limited i f , for instance, a f i re were ~o in i t ia te within the service aisles of the stack area. Since this is usually the most cr i t ical and damaging type of f i re, i t is considered to be the most necessary for early detection. Normally,

.guard rounds are regulated at intervals of I hour or more. A major f i re catastrophe could develop between periods of observation of the most alert and conscientious guard. The presence of guards can be effective in peripheral situations, such as a small office f i re. They also can function in f i re prevention programs. They are, however, of limited value in controlling a f i re in record shelving, except to call the f i re department.

5-1.3 Heat Detection. Heat detection equipment, either fixed temperature or rate-of-rise, is used, at times, in records fac i l i t ies . As described in Chapter 4, Fire Development, these devices are not l ikely to respond to a f i re until i t has developed into i ts major stage. At this point, unless there is an installed automatic extinguishing system, the f i re is l ikely to be beyond the capabilities of local forces. I t may severely challenge the municipal f i re department by the time they are summoned and set up operations, thereby complicating the f i re fighting problems and resultant records damage. On the other hand, i f the heat-actuated detection equipment is used to operate an automatic f i re control system, i t could provide a very effective service.

5-1.4 Automatic Sprinkler Detection. In considering detection systems that cause the operation of an ext inguishing system, i t is necessary to consider b r i e f l y the detection aspects of automatic water spr ink ler systems. Each automatic spr ink ler is a f ixed temperature devlce that opens (fuses) when heated to a preset temperature. When the automatic spr ink ler system is equipped with a waterflow detection device, the spr ink ler system becomes inherent ly a f ixed temperature f i r e detection system as well as an automatic water ext inguishing system, for th is reason the detection of waterflow in the sprinkler system is important, and i t is considered axiomatic that every sprinkler system installed in a records storage

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fac i l i t y should be equipped with waterflow detection that activates the building f i re alarm system and thus transmits the alarm.

5-1.5 Early Warning Detection. These devices, known generically as smoke detectors, respond to either the visible (smoke) or invisible (molecular size) products of combustion, or both, produced from the moment of ignition. In a properly engineered installation; these devices can detect a smoldering f i re in i ts low energy stage. Where ignition from a smoldering f i re is l ikely, they can give warning very early in the f i re development.

5-I.5.1 Listed or approved smoke detectors include ionization type, photoelectric beam or spot type, infrared type, etc. I t is possible, i f the need warrants, that these early warning systems may activate associated f i re extinguishing systems. These may be considered as part of the overall system in any important record collection where a smoldering f i re is possible.

5-1.5.2 Total dependence on the combination of smoke detection and hand f i re extinguisher attack s t i l l leaves the fac i l i t y subject to a major disaster. Dependence solely on an early warning detection system exposes the fac i l i t y to fu l l f i re development before effective efforts can be undertaken.

5-].6 Locating Smoke Detectors. I t is important that the system be individually engi'neered by competent personnel. Where the devices are used, they are installed because of the desire to obtain the earliest possible knowledge of the existence of a f i re. The various types of a i r movements, including strat i f icat ion caused by heating or other air-handling systems, as well as that provided by the records storage arrangement, are important considerations. I t is best practice that the system be capable of detecting and locating the presence of f i re in any portion of the records storage ,area within a brief period of time. While the time element spbcified wi l l directly affect the cost of the system, i t wi l l also affect the extent of the damage. Generally, the shorter the time for detection, the higher the cost of the system. For further information refer to NFPA 72E, Standard on Automatic Fire Detectors.

5-1.7 Protective Signaling Systems. Heat and smoke detectors as ~escribed in 6-1.2, 6-1.3, 6-1.4, and 6-1.5 require a signal transmission system to report the f i re to the f i re department, sound the local alarm, and/or activate f i re suppression systems, ventilation controls, etc., as appropriate. Installation requirements and recommendations for signaling systems are detailed in NFPA 71, 72A, 72B, 72C, and 72D. Each of these systems is br ief ly described as follows:

(a) Central Station Signaling Systems (NFPA 71). This type of an alarm system directs the transmission of an emergency signal to an accredited central station. In turn, the central station wi l l alert the public f i re department. Regular testing and maintenance are normally the contractual responsibility of the central station operator.

(b) Local Protective Signali~{g Systems (NFPA 72A). This type of an alarm system, though essentially' designed as an evacuation building alarm for l i f e safety purposes, is capable oY providing an audible emergency signal to anyone in attendance and who may be in a position to take emergency action.

(c) Auxiliary Protective Signaling Systems (NFPA 72B). This type of an alarm system deals with direct connection to a municipal f i re alarm system (manual

s t ree t f i re alarm boxes) by means of an "auxil iarized" circuit to the nearest manual f i re alarm station'. A spl i t responsibility exists for testing and maintenance needs between that portion of the system owned by the municipality and that which is privately owned.

(d) Remote Station Protectiw~ Signaling Systems (NFPA 72C). This type of transmission system incnrporates a d i r e c t connect ion, by the use of leased

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wire fac i l i t ies , to a f i re department alarm headquarters. Testing and maintenance requirements are normally the contractual responsibility of the.i accredited organization that provides the servlce.

(e) Proprietary Protective Signaling Systems (NFPA 72D). This type of system typical ly exists within a single large privately owned or governmental complex of buildings. The transmission of the emergency signal is directed to a central headquarters, also similarly owned and operated and which is fu l ly manned 24 hours a day as well as equipped to provide a permanent record of al l emergency signals.

5-2 Automatic Sprinkler Systems.

5-2.1 General. The most effective f i re protection element and the most economical automatic f i re control system for protection of archives and records centers is the automatic wet-pipe sprinkler system. Such systems are also the most frequently opposed by records managers because of their concern with water damage. Three factors serve to dispel this reaction:

(a) Sprinklers actually constitute a method of f i re control involving a minimum rather than a maximum of water;

(b) Each sprinkler operates individuall.y and the operation of any one does not cause the operation of any other sprinkler; therefore, only those sprinklers in the heat of the f i re operate and discharge water.

(c) Wet records are recoverable; burned records are not recoverable.

5-2.1.1 The probability of sprinkler operation at a time when no f i re exists is insignificant.

5-2.1.2 Because of the rapid heat development in records storage areas, high temperature ratings of the sprinklers (250°F to 300°F (121°E to 149"C)) are commonly used in lieu of the ordinary rating (135°F to 170°F (57°C to 77°C)), to l imi t the number of , sprinklers that would operate in a f i re to those that must directly act in extinguishment. (See NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.) In archieved storage areas, consideration should be given to using ordinary ratings (135°F to 170°F) (57°C to 77°C) when the risks of f i re development exceed the risks of water damage.

5-2.2 Waterflow Alarms. Where a records center is protected by an automatic sprinkler system, provision of a waterflow alarm that transmits a signal to the f i re department on the fusing (opening) of one or more sprinklers eliminates the possibi l i ty of a sprinkler operating undetected and discharging water for a long period of time, excessively wetting the records underneath, even though i t had already successfully extinguished the f i re. The waterflow alarm feature, in addition to signaling the existence of a f i re, wil l also detect the flow of water in the rare instance of accidental or malicious damage to the system.

5-2.3 Sprinkler Operation Characteristics. The sprinkler system operates only when the f i re has reached the point of rapid heat rise and has passed the phase of development where hand f i re extinguishment could be expected to be undertaken successfully. Both tests and f i re experience have shown that sprinklers can be expected to confine the f i re to a relative]y small portion of the row of shelving where ~he f i re started. The sprinkler discharge would not necessarily extinguish f i re concealed under the shelves or inside mobile shelving. I t would definitely slow down or prevent further f i re propagation, remove the heat, and prevent further damage or collapse of the stack equipment. Thus, f i re fighters entering the building could approach the seat of the f i re and use small hose streams to quench the glowing or flaming areas, r

5-2.4 Sprinklers - - Expected Results. In a no÷mal situation, i t is probable that in a sprinkler protected facil iEy f i re would be confined t~ area of between 100 and 500 sq f t (9.3 and 46.4 m L a n Water damage

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would consist primarily of superficial wetting of cartons in those areas where cartons were involved or edge and bottom wetting of open f i l e records" The areas of water damage to the degree described above would probably extend about 10 to 20 f t (3.0 to 6.1 m) to each side of the area of f i re damage. The records on top of the top shelves would be the wettest; those on lower shelves would be shielded from d i rec t impact of water and considerably d r ie r . I t is expected that total extinguishment and shutdown should take place normally before fa i l u re of the corrugated or pressboard cartons. In th is respect, cartons with wire-stapled lap- jo in ts (rather than glued) are less l i k e l y to f a i l . Containers that are die cut for assembly without use of glue or staples are also wel l -su i ted as protection against water damage and For avoiding possible injury and corrosion problems involved with wire staples. Boxes with handholes are more susceptible to water damage. Water discharge from the sprinklers is in the form of a fine spray and, therefore, would not disturb the position of the records storage. Fire department operations in a sprinkiered fac i l i t y wi l l probably cause only minimum physical disruption. I t is probable that smoke and soot damage would be minimal. Solid fiberboard (archival) boxes resist water damage to a much greater extent than corrugated cartons.

5-2.5 Sprinklers - - Special Systems. There are four special types of sprinklers that lend themselves to records protection. (For instal lat ion details refer to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.) They are:

(a) The pre-action system is a syst.em in which the sprinkler piping normally is dry and the control valve opens only when the heat detection devices detect the development of a f i re. As in the wet-plpe system, individual sprinklers are fused so that only those directly over the f i re wi l l operate. Although more costly than the ordinary system, i t has the advantage of eliminating the discharge of water i f a sprinkler or a 'line is accidentally or deliberately broken. I t is more expensive than a wet-pipe system in that a complete detection system is required in addition to the sprinkler system. I t is less reliable than a wet-plpe system in that i t wi l l not operate i f the detection system is inoperative.

(b) The recycling system is an adaption of the pre-action sprinkler system with a recycling feature. When the sprinkler or sprinklers have extinguished the f i re and the heat drops below a pre-set temperature (such as 140°F (60°C)) the detectors cause a timing cycle to start that automatically discontinues the water flow by closing a special valve in about 5 minutes. The system remains in readiness, and, should the f i re redevelop, i t would cycle and start again. The system has the advantages of automatically determining when the temperature has decreased and of shutting the system off, making i t almost impossible for maintenance personnel or others to shut the valve accidentally.

Like the pre-action system, the recycling system requires a separate detection system. Since the system is designed to recycle, the detection system must be f i re resistant and thus somewhat more expensive. An advantage of the recycling system over other sprinkler systems is that i f the system shuts off prematurely ( f i re continues or rekindles), i t is reactivated automatically when the ceiling temperature increases.

(c) On-Off Sprinkler Heads. Sprinkler heads are available that have a recycling feature. Installed on wet-pipe sprinkler systems, each head operates individually at a predetermined temperature, but when the temperature drops below the predetermined temperature, the head shuts off. Each head works independently, on and off, depending upon the f i re situation in i ts immediate area. No separate detection system is required. The technology of the on-off heads is relat ively new, and long-term re l i ab i l i t y data are not available.

(d) Dry-Pipe Sprinkler Systems. Also of interest for protection of records storage is the dry-plpe system. The sprinkler piping is f i l l ed with compressed air. The release of a i r pressure, as through a fused

spr lnk ler head, allows the water valve to open and supply water to the spr ink ler piping. Each head operates independently, as do a l l other types in this section. Releasing a i r pressure through a fused spr ink ler head takes appreciable time, during which the f i r e may grow and open addit ional spr ink ler heads. Dry-plpe spr ink ler systems are used pr lmar i ly for protect ion of unheated areas where freezing may occur.

5-3 High Expansion Foam.

5-3.1 General. High expansion foam is a to ta l f looding medium, meaning that i t inundates the protected space with the ext inguishing agent. The foam surrounds a l l the materials within the protected area with an aggregate of bubbles, each of which carries a small amount of water. The character is t ics of high expansion foam are more extenslvely covered in NFPA l lA, Standard for Medium and High Expansion Foam Systems.

In tests conducted by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission involv ing records media, high expansion foam extinguished test f i res quickly and easi ly by f i l l i n g the ent i re volume of the storage space. The degree of wett ing was low; general ly i t did not penetrate normal corrugated f iberboard cartons. (Cartons with stapled or in ter lock ing edges tend to hold up quite wel l , while cartons with glued edges tend to come apart and expose the records contents to foam. Iden t i f i ca t ion labels tend to s l l p o f f . )

However, a f te r exposure to the foam i t was found necessary to Lake correct ive drying action on a l l the materials within the area contacted by the foam.

NOTE: Data on these tests is published in an Atomic Energy Commission report, "High Expansion Foam Fire Control for Records Storage Center," ID0-12050, March 1966. Avai lable from the Clearinghouse, U.S. Department of Commerce, Spr ingf ie ld, Va. 22157. See also Beers, R.3., "High Expansion Foam Fire Control for Record Storage," Fire Technology, Vol. 2, No. 2, May 1966, pp. 108-117.

5-3.2 Design of High Expansion Foam'System. NFPA 11A, Standard for Medium and High Expansion Foam Systems, states the minimum requirements and design of systems that would provide adequate protection.. There are three types of high expansion foam systems avai lable: to ta l f looding systems, local appl icat ion systems, and portable foam appl icat ion devices. For the purposes of th is manual, to ta l f looding systems are most appl icable. Total f looding involves f i l l i n g the storage space with foam to a level above the combustlble mater lal .

Total f looding systems require maintenance of su f f i c ien t foam to submerge the hazard, length of time of coverage of the hazard, and minimum rate of discharge to compensate for breakdown of foam by spr ink ler discharge, shrinkage, f i r e , and other factors. High expansion foam systems require venting, closure of openings through which foam would escape, and maintenance of foam to cover the hazard to ensure control and extinguishment of f i res . The rate of appl icat ion of high expansion foam is high, and a large vent area is needed for the displaced a i r . Automatic act ivat ion of the system is by a heat detection system simi lar to that discussed for other systems.

5-4 Gaseous Extinguishment.

5-4.1 General. Extinguishment by to ta l f looding with gas is favored by many archivists and records managers on the basis that, i f no water is applied to a f i re, no water damage occurs and salvage problems are simplified. Two principal gases for this application are Halon 1301 and carbon dioxide. Total flooding involves f i l l i n g the entire protected volume with a specific concentration of gas.

5-4.2 Halon 1301 Gas Systems. While water-based agents depend on cooling and quenching, and carbon dioxide depends primarily on oxygen-excluslon, Halon

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1301 inhibits burning by chemically interacting with the flame radical. Halon 1301 (bromotrifluoromethane) is a liquefied gas under pressure, which is an effective flame-inhibitor while at the same time exhibiting low toxic and corrosive properties. Design is covered by NFPA 12A, Standard on Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishin B Systems. Use of this agent for total flooding applications in records storage fac i l i t ies has been limited, and installation should be attempted only with expert guidance.

11alon 1301, being a flame inhibitor, is not effective at normal concentrations a~ainst smoldering f i re. In a records storage fac i l i t y , i t is important that application be undertaken as early as possible in the f i re, before i t becomes deep-seated. To be effective, i t is also important that the system be automatic, total flooding, and employ a properly responsive detection system. I t is essential that means be provided to contain the gas without significant leakage for an extended period of time. Halon 1301 systems are relat ively expensive, and most installations have been limited to protection of high value collections in m~dest-sized spaces (less than 50,000 cu f t (1416 m~)). Total extinguishment by Halon 130'I of a f i re in Class A (paper) storage is not l ike ly because of establishment of smoldering. Prevention of flaming f i re pending arrival of the municipal f i re department may be adequate. Rapid f i re growth would be inhibited in the interim. The f i re department would be expected to use water to complete the extinguishment, possibly in conditions of low v i s i b i l i t y . Many installations sound an evacuation alarm prior to gas discharge to avoid having occupants breathe halon or halon decomposition products. Use of llalon 1301 is not recomlended for ordinary record centers or archive fac i l l t les , but may be appropriate for protection of isolated smaller collections, high intr insic value records.

5-4.3 Carbon Dioxide Systems.

5-4.3.1 General. Fire extinguishment can be accomplished by a total flooding carbon dioxide system with a soaking period. The design and proper installation of such a system is c r i t i ca l . (The basic reference in this area is NFPA 12, Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems.)

5-4.3.2 Systems for record storage protection are designed to provide a concentration of 65 percent in the protected space, to control strat i f icat ion, and to maintain soaking for 30 minutes. Openings not required for pressure venting must be closed at the time of discharge to avoid loss of carbon dioxide during the soaking period. Underdeslgned carbon dioxide systems are subject to failure at the time of f i re. Proper performance can only be assured by actual testing to make sure that the design concentration wil l be achieved and maintained for the ful l soaking period. 5-4.3.3 Since atmospheres containing f i re extinguishing concentrations of carbon dioxide wil l n o t sustain l i fe , i t could be fatal to be trapped in the flooded space. Ample warning and time delay must be given prior to discharge to allov~ occupants to escape from the area to'be flooded. A person could not safely leave the area after the discharge starts. Provision is made for exhausting the atmosphere after the soaking period without creating a hazardous atmosphere in another l oca t ion .

5-4.3.4 For e f f e c t i v e f i r e con t ro l , the a c t i v a t i o n of the carbon dioxide system should be automatic in response to f i re, triggered by a properly designed and installed heat detection system.

5-4.3.5 Di'scharge of carbon dioxide may cause condensation of humidity (fogging), which can obstruct vision.

5-5 Comparisons-of Extinguishing Systems.

5-5.1 There are a number of factors involved in comparing extinguishing systems. Original cost, re l i ab i l i t y , cost of agent, susceptibil ity to false, operation, area of application, damage to records by

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fire and by extinguishing agent, and consequences of failure are all important factors for consideration. All automatic systems are damage-lnltlated; a fire must be established that causes damage before an automatic system detects and reacts. Generally, the smaller the fire a system will detect, the more sensitive it is and the more subject it is to false operation. It is important that the alarms for all systems be connected to the municipal fire depa÷tment so that it is ngtifled of a fire when the system activates. ,

5-5.2 Automatic sprinklers are the most reliable and economic means of controlling fire in a records center. Wet-pipe sprinklers with hydraulically designed piping, adequate water supply, and supervised valves are reliable and trouble-free. Cyclic systems, pre-action systems and dry-pipe systems, provided for assurance against water damage, int roduce f a i l u r e po ten t i a l s in the system and can slow system funct ion ing in a f i r e and resu l t in a la rge r f i r e to ext ingu ish . In a f i r e , only sp r ink le rs in the immediate v i c i n i t y of the f i r e are ac t i va ted , in the Factory Mutual f u l l - s c a l e test ser ies , wi th spr ink le rs located as unfavorably as poss ib le , the three tests opened 6, 16, and 3 sp r ink le rs , respec t i ve l y . Thi~ covered 600, 1600,.and 300 sq f t (56, 14g and 28 m ~) out of an i n s t a l l e d array of 77 heads, which represented a f a c i l i t y having approximately 400 heads. In these tes ts , as in most records f i r e s , whatever the extinguishment means, f l na l ext inguishment was by hosel ine. A l l of the records wetted but not burned were recoverable.

5-5.3 Detectors are available that wi l l react to a spark, but the most sensitive used in a records center is a smoke detector. When used for discharging agent, i t is usually desensitized by requiring two detectors on alternate circuits to react prior to agent discharge. Although smoke detectors react promptly when exposed to smoke, a smoldering f i re does not have the " l l f t " to carry smoke to a high ceiling, and' detectors generally react to a smoldering f i re after a long period by process of diffusion, A strong heat column from a brisk flaming f i re wi l l cause a smoke detector to operate promptly, but heat detectors, including sprinklers, also react quickly to this type of f i re. Full-scale f i re tests showed l i t t l e advance warning in flaming fires in a records center by ~moke detectors.

Detectors are of value only to i n i t i a t e extinguishment and l i f e safety warnings. To i n i t i a t e manual ext inguishment by local forces is advantageous in that an i n c i p i e n t f i r e may be discovered and ext inguished with minimal damage by employees using ext ingu ishers or hand hose. I f f i r e is more than i n c i p i e n t , employees are at hazard because of lack of experience, breathing equipment, and p ro tec t i ve gear. A municipal f i r e department is much be t te r equipped for manual f i r e f i g h t i n g wi th p ro tec t i ve gear, heavy hose streams, and broad experience. The times required for d iscovery, repor t ing , t r ave l , and setup may resu l t in an establ ished f i r e beyond manual control by muni!cipal forces, as occurred in the unspr ink lered M i l i t a r y Personnel Records Center f i r e and many other f i r e s in records centers.

5-5.4" Gaseous extinguishment has the potential for least damage if all elements perform as designed. Automatic operat ion of the system and automatic closure of leakage openings is essent la l to the success of these systems. Nei ther halon nor carbon d iox ide can be expected to ext inguish a deep-seated f i r e condi t ion that would occur i f an archives or records cente~ f i r e were al lowed to become well-dev@loped before : app l i ca t i on of the ex t ingu ish ing gas. Gas leakage through a blocked-open door, a temporary opening, or a f i re-caused breach could also resu l t in a f a i l u r e . Gas ex t ingu ish ing systems, using more sens i t i ve detectors, are used mainly on i n c i p i e n t f i r e s to minimize damage and because the la rger the f i r e , the less assured is ext inguishment. Using more sens i t i ve detect ion resul ts in more fa lse operat ions, which are undesirable because of the high cost of agent and because of hazards to personnel. A l l mater la ls in the enclosure are equal ly t reated by the gas, whether near the f i r e or away from

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the f i re. Final extinguishment is usually performed by the f i re department using hose streams. I f the area is obscured by smoke, which is l ike ly , directing hose streams may be haphazard and result in widespread water damage.

5-5.5 Automatic high expansion foam has the capacity to overcome a well-established f i re and in this factor is much superior to gaseous extinguishment and better than sprinklers. Like gaseous extinguishment, high expansion foam wil l escape through unclosed openings, although a very lightweight part i t ion such as fine mesh screen wi l l contain i t . Also, l ike gas, al l materials in the enclosure are equally exposed to the extinguishing agent. As the foam wil l dampen kraft boxes (and perhaps loosen identif ication labels), al l materials in the enclosure are damaged sl ight ly and must be dried. Final extinguishment by f i re department hose streams wi l l probably be required.

5-6 Installation and Maintenance of Systems and Equipment. To provide reasonable assurance that a f i re detection control system, appliance, or device wi l l perform satisfactori ly, i t is necessary that the installation be in compliance with the recognized standards, the manufacturer's instructions, and that complete operational tests be conducted.

After instal lat ion, i t is important that a complete routine scheduled maintenance program that follows recoQnlzed standards and manufacturer's instructions be (leveloped and adhered to. This may be performed either by competent maintenance employees or by service contractors. SUBSTANTIATION: The standard is being revised to make i t a more useable document. Many of the changes are editorial in nature. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232AM- 2 - (Appendix A): Accept S_UBMITTER: Technical Committee on Archives and Records Centers R_ECOMMENDATION: Revise Appendix A and adopt as Chapter 6 and Chapter 7.

Chapter 6 Construction.

6-I General Principles for New Construction.

6-1.1 The more important general principles for firesafe records center and archives construction are set forth below. Detailed recommendations for good practice are also contained in various NFPA publications. In most local i t ies building codes and ordinances wi l l govern to a large extent the type of construction to be used.

Codes frequently provide for the safety of persons in the building, but not for the preservation of the building or the collections. Therefore, i t is of cr i t ical importance at the conception of the project fo r the records custodian to speci fy the level of f i r e safety t o b e achieved in the construct ion. For s ingle s tory, aboveground f a c i l i t i e s , considerat ion should be giveo to including a clause in the professional service contract(s) for the design of the project that requires retaining and providing the consultant services of a qualified f i re protection engineer, acceptable to the records custodian, to participate in the development of the firesafety system, including the determination of the requirements in the final project documentation. For multistory or below-grade fac i l i t ies , the services of a qualified f i re protection engineer are essential.

6-I.2 Design of the automatic sprinkler protection and other f i re protection and detection systems and building construction are interrelated. In addition to protecting combustible contents and providing improved safety to l i fe , automatic f i re suppression systems may in some cases enable use of less expensive construction than would be possible without them., Properly designed automatic sprinkler systems in al l areas of an archive or records center are mandatory.

6-1.3 For records center and archives construction i t is desirable to select materials and types of construction that are either non-combustible or which have resistance to f i re. Fire-resistive construction

is desirable and for multistory structures is essential. Fire-resistive construction is defined in NFPA 220, Standard for Types of Building Construction, and requires structural members, including walls, partit ions, columns, floor, and roof construction to be of noncombustible materials and have fire-reslstance ratings from 2 to 4 hours; depending on the structural members.

6-1.3.1 Columns within shelving are potentially exposed to high temperatures exceeding the f i re resist iv i ty of steel. Therefore, building columns within the records storage area should be 2 hour construction from the floor to the point where they meet the roof-forming system.

6-I.3.2 Standard sprinklers may not protect light-weight roof structures (such as bar joists) in the early f i re development. Quick-acting sprinklers may avoid this problem.

6-1.4 The contents of an archive, or even a records center, are valuable, sometimes of very high value or even irreplaceable, but always combustible. Therefore, every effort'should be made to construct the building so that i t wi l l resist the spread of f i re. This means that during a f i re the walls, roof, floor, columns, and partitions should prevent the passage of flame, smoke, or excessive heat and continue to support their loads. "Fire resistant" is not the same as "noncombustible." A noncombustible structure may not keep a f i re from spreading because some materials that wi l l not burn lose their strength when exposed to intense heat. Thls might cause walls or floors to collapse. Many types of construction using various building materials have been tested and rated according to the length of time they wi l l resist f i re. The duration of the resistance needed by the archive or records center depends on the amount of combustible material in the contents of each room as well as the structure i tse l f . Different structural assemblies have f i re resistances ranging from less than I to more than 6 hours.

NOTE: NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction, classifies and defines various kinds of building construction. The Building Materials List published by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. gives under the heading "Fire Resistance Classification" information on structural assemblies that have been tested in accordance with NFPA 251, Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials.

6-1.5 I t is unwise to construct records centers and archives of materials that wi l l contribute fuel to a f i re and that, by the nature of the construction, create combustible concealed spaces. Voids between a ceiling and the floor above are good examples of concealed spaces through which f i re can spread rapidly and where access for f i re fighting is d i f f i cu l t .

6-1.6 The term "compartmentation" in f i re prevention is used to mean the subdivision of a building into relat ively small areas so that f i re or smoke may be confined to the room or section in which i t originates. This principle can be applied to records centers and archives without restricting the f l e x i b i l i t y of arrangement of stack areas or the flow of visi tors. Compartmentation requires f ire-resist ive wall and floor construction, with openings provided with sel.f-closing or automatic f i re doors having specific f i re-resist ive ratings. A major records keeper l imits records center storage in a single f i re subdivision to about 40,000 sq f t (3720 sq meters), and archives storage in a single f i re subdivision to 25,000 sq f t (2325 sq meters). Offices, researck rooms, and other support fac i l i t ies should always be separated from the records storage areas by a properly rated f i re-resist ive wall.

In a similar way, properly enclosed stairways equipped with f i re doors wi l l prevent the spread of f i re, smoke, and heat from one level to another. Elevator shafts, dumb-waiters, and al l other vertical openings through the structure should also be safeguarded. Air-handling systems (ventilation,

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heating, and cooling) should be constructed and equipped to prevent the passage of smoke, heat, and f i re from one f i re area to another or from one level to another as provided in NFPA gOA, Air-Condltioning and Ventilating Systems.

6-1.7 Some architects have designed fac i l i t ies that are underground, or largely so, or are windowless, or which are completely ventilated by mechanical means. While these types of construction have advantages in controlling temperatures, humidity, and air pollution, they do create problems for f i re extinguishment and l l f e safety in event of f i re. lhese problems are greatly magnified i f loss of power impairs venti lating systems. Alternative means for permitting the escape of heat and smoke should be provided; adequate roof ventilation is particularly essential as heated gases and smoke tend to rise. Provisions should be made for the safe emergency evacuation of people as well as for access by the f i re departmentto the f i re area. "Knockout" panels located to permit direct access to well maintained aisleways within the structure are invaluable for this purpose. Fire department of f ic ia ls should be consulted and should have knowledge of these to avoid unnecessary breaching of walls in the case of f i re. Automatic sprinklers are essential in these. types of buildings and are recommended. Smoke detection systems can provide c r i t i ca l l y important early detection to activate a smoke control system and give early warning to occupants.

NOTE: See NFPA 101, Life Safety Code®, Chapter 30, for guidance in providing l i f e safety measures for underground structures and windowless buildings.

6-1.8 Consideration should be given to the proper selection of inter ior finishes and furnishings. Highly flammable wall and ceiling finishes should be avoided. NFPA 101, L i fe Safety Code®, and most bu i l d ing codes speci fy minimum requirements fo r i n t e r i o r f i n i sh mater ia ls . Draper ies, where used, should be noncombustlble.

-6-2 Records Storage Areas.

6-2.1 Fuel loads in records s~orage areas may range from 30 lb per sq f t (146 kg/m ~) t~ hundreds of Ib per sq f t (approximately 1000 kg/m L) with corresponding f i re durations of more than commonly used building construction can withstand. Furthermore, the higher fuel loading in records storage areas may result in f i re durations that more nearly resemble those in warehouse occupancies than those found in business occupancies. Observations on the Mil i tary Personnel Records Center f i re in St. Louis in 1973 indicate that a fire in a lower f loor of a multlstory building with sprinklers not installed, shut off, or inadequately designed wil l result in total loss of the building, no matter how i t is subdivided, unless the f i re load is less than the structural f i re resistance. There is no recognized construction that wi l l support a building above an uncontrolled archives or records center f i re.

6-2.2 In some archives and records centers the part of the building used to house records is only a shell. The metal stacks are self-supporting and extend through several f loor levels of the building. The stack floors are merely platforms that provide a walkway through the stacks. This results in s lot- l ike openings between the stacks and the walkways, permitting a rapid, uninterrupted upward flow of air, heat, smoke, and flames. In new records centers and archives, or in major renovations of existing structures, these types of stacks should be avoided. Floors should be of conventional building construction with appropriate f i re-resist ive ratings and the shelves installed thereofl as ordinar~ furniture.

6-2.3 In records storage areas ~here high-rlse, self-supporting stacks are used, special attention should be given to f i re protection as follows:

(a) The most eff lcient automatic f i re detection available, together with suitable reporting means, should be provided;

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(b) Complete automatic sprinkler protection should be provided, including waterflow alarms; and

(c) A plan of action should be worked out in'advance with the f i re department, to determine [he best means of gaining access to the stacks, of venting smoke, and of reaching and fighting a stack f i re at i ts source.

6-2.4 The practice of mounting records storage~shelves on tracks is now appearing in new records center and archives construction and renovations as an application of modern warehousing technology (compact 'storage). This practice results in high f i re load density ,that can lead to a f i re that w i l l threaten even the strongest code-prescribed f i re barriRrs and construction e.g., cause structural collapse. Without sprinkler protection for compact storage, f i re endurance may exceed the resistance of f i re compartment walls and the ab i l i t y of the f i re service to control i t . Automatic sprinklers should be mandatory.

Associated f i re protection problems that requi!re considerationinclude the following:

(a) Existing automatic f i re detection and five suppressant systems may have to be modified.

(b) Compact storage modules may conceal the origin of smoke, compounding the d i f f i cu l ty of locating and extinguishing the f i re.

(c) Compact storage modules prevent penetration of water from hose streams for f i re extinguishment.

Proper engineering can effectively solve these problems.

NOTE: See page 10-73 of the NFPA Fire Protection Handbook (15th Edition) for a discussion of ~ire protection in compact storage. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. conducted additional tests on August 29 and 31, 1989. Published results of these tests are available from the National Archives and Records Administration (NASS), Washington, DC 20408.

6-2.5 Service Aisles. Otherwise dead-end service aisles should be terminated at least 18 inL (45.8 cm) from the wall to prevent entrapment by f i re.

6-3 Protection Against Outside Exposure Fi res. ' i

6-3.1 Outside fires present an exposure hazard. Clear space provides optimum protection. I f sufficient clear space cannot be provided, the exterior walls of the records center or archives facing adjacent buildings should be of masonry or other adequately f ire-resist ive construction without doors, windows, or other openings. When openings in an exposed wall are :~ necessary, provision should be made to prevent heat or flames from a nearby f i re being transmitted through them. Such protection includes f i re windows with wired glass, f i re doors, outside sprinklers, f i re shutters, or a combination of these. Combustible roof coverings, window frames, and eaves may add to the hazard from an exposure f i re and should be given special consideration in planning f i re protection.

6-3.2 The requirements for protection from exposure fires are determined by the distance from neighboring buildings and the comparative hazards of their occupancies, e.g., residence, factory, office building, etc. With so many variables,'the records center or archives needs to consider the risk of f i re spreading from neighboring occupancies - - whether in other buildings or in the same building as the records center or archives (e.g., universities, museums and other institutions). Determining the severity of such exposures is a matter of judgment based on the factors contributing to the hazard of radiant and convected heat.

NOTE: See NFPA 80A, Recommended Practice for Protection of Buildings from Exterior Fire Exposures for further guidance.

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Chapter 7 Building Equipment and Facil i t ies

7-I Heating Systems.

7-1.1 A major potential source of fires is malfunction of heating equipment. For this reason, boilers and furnaces of central heating systems should be cut off from the remainder of the structure by rated f i re walls or separation.

7-1.2 Oil- and gas-fired heating equipment, piping, and fL,el oi l storage fac i l i t i es should be installed and maintained in accordance with the requirements of recognized safe practices. Heating equipment should be inspected and serviced at least annually by qualified personnel or service contractor. All heating units should have safety devices appropriate for the particular type of instal lation. Combustibles, such as paper, wood, and text i les, should be kept away from the steam or other heat piping and ducts.

7-I.3 Open-flame (gas and o i l ) space heaters are not compatible with storage of archives and valuable records, and should be avoided whenever possible. Piping of fuel should be avoided in the v ic in i ty of records storage areas.

7-1.4 The requirements for safety an'd f i re protection where gas is used as fuel for heating are found in NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code. Requirements for use of ] iquif led petroleum gas as fuel may be found in NFPA 58, Storage and Handling of t iquif ied Petroleum Gases. NFPA 31, Oil Burning Equipment, contains requirements to follow in the instal lat ion of oi l burners and equipment used with them. The previously mentioned NFPA 90A, Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, contains requirements applying to ai r duct systems used f~," heating and ventilating. Al l these standards prescribe reasonable provisions for safety of l i f e and property from f i re.

7-2 Electrical Systems.

7-2.1 Installation and modifications to provide for the changin~ needs of the records center or archives including l lghting, TV, sound systems, shop machinery, and appliances should be made by licensed or qualified electricians in conformity with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code®. The equipment should be l isted.

7-2.2 Light Fixtures. Narrow aisle spaces (on the order of 30 in. (.8 m)) mandate a l imitation on the width of suspended continuous lighting fixtures because they can l imi t sprinkler penetration into the aisle. I t has been shown that a 9 in. (23 cm) fixture in a 30 in. (.8 m) aisle wi l l not materially interfere with water spray from a conventional sprinkler. "Large drop" sprinklers have not been tested against this obstacle. Lights t ight against the ceiling can he arranged to not interfere with sprinkler distribution.

7-3 Means of Egress.

7-.~.I I t is imperative that security measures not impede the safe emergency evacuation of visi tors and employees. Attendance can vary greatly with the time of year, exhibits, and other special events. There[ore, in planning the capacity of exits, serious consideration should be given to the maximum number of people who might be expected to be in the building at any given time. NFPA lOl, Life Safety Code®, contains information on construction, protection, and occupancy features designed to minimize danger to l l f e from f i re, smoke, fumes, and panic before buildings are vacated. The Life Safety Code~ is the basis for legal requirements governing exit fac i l i t ies in many government jurisdictions and should be consulted in planning l i f e safety measures for a records center or archl ves.

7-3.2 Locking Devices. I t is common for records ~enters and archives security measures to funnel al l occupants through a few exits that can be closely monitored. Unfortunately, this often means that other doors required for egress are locked in violation of the Life Safety Code®.

The 1985 edition of the Life Safety Code® incorporates equlvalency concepts that allow the authority having jurisdiction to permit locking systems on these doors provided that they afford an equivalent level of l l f e safety to that prescribed in the Code. There are electromechanical and electromagnetic locking devices available that can satisfy this requirement when installed in a properly designed system. Some of these systems provide an appropriate time delay before opening. Hydraulic and pneumatic devices are also under development that may meet this requirement. A properly designed system should address the following considerations:

(a) Any failure of the device or the system should cause the system to fa i l open (unlocked).

(b) Sprinkler system operation should cause the system to unlock in the f i re zone of origin.

(c) Fire alarms in the building should cause the system to unlock.

I. A manual f i re alarm box should be provided at each exit egress door controlled by the system that leads direct ly outside the building.

2. A sign should be placed on each required exit door stating that the door wi l l unlock in a 15 to 30 second period upon pushing the panic bar or when tile f i re alarm sounds. Letters used in the sign should be 1 I/2 in. (38 mm) high with I/4 in. (6 mm) stroke.

(d) Smoke detection should cause the system to unlock.

(e) Conduct a daily functional test protocol with specific assignment of responsibility for conducting i t .

NOTE: Use of these security devices or systems in combination with panic hardware maintains protection against unauthorized ingress while the system is unlocked fo r egress.

7-4 A i r -Cond i t lon ing and Ven t i l a t i on Systems. Central a i r - cond i t i on lng equipment should be located and installed in a manner that wil l not increase f i re hazards to records center or archives visitors or collections. Air-condltlonlng ducts should be equipped with automatic f i re dampers and fan shutoffs as set forth in NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems.

7-5 Lightning Protection. Li~htnlng is always a possible f i re hazard, more so in some areas or locations than in others. Lightning protection can be more effectively and economically incorporated in tile course of new construction than as an afterthought. NFPA 78, Lightning Protection Code, prescribes methods of protecting buildings from damage by lightning. ~UB~TANTIATION: Appendix A is a specimen specification for a typical archive and records center of a single, very large user, using cr i ter ia current fifteen years ago. I t has been redeveloped into two chapters, Chapter 6 and Chapter 7, reflecting current practice and changed from hardware specification language to performance standdrds to address a wider variety of records center designs. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

232AM- 3 - (Appendix): Accept SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Archives and Records Centers RECOMMENDATION: Retitle Appendix B as Appendix A, adopt Appendix B from NFPA 910 as new Appendix B, and adopt Appendix D from NFPA 910 with a new preamble as new Appendix C as shown below.

SUBSTANTIATION: Appendix B is useful information for developers an d operators of archives and records centers, and is as useful to users of NFPA 23ZAM as i t is to users of NFPA 910,

Appendix D of NFPA 910 contains useful information on salvage of wet l ibrary materials. The material contained forms a useful guide to salvage of wet

744

records, and is proposed for inclusion in 232AM, with a suitably amended introduction. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

Appendix A

This Appendix is not a part of the recommendations of t h i s NFPA document but is inc luded f o r i n fo rmat ion purposes only .

Many members o f the Society o f F i re P ro tec t i on Engineers are invo lved in the consu l t i ng phase of the f i re protection engineering profession. They are employed by consulting organizations or in many cases head their own firms. The services offered vary depending upon the particular expertise of the firm. To obtain the names of consulting firms in a particular geographic area, contact the Executive Director, Society of Fire Protection Engineers, 60 Batterymarch Street, Boston, MA 02110. Telephone (617) 482-0686.

Appendix B Salvage of Water-Damaged Library Materials

This Appendix is not a part of the recommendations of this NFPA document, but is included for information purposes only .

The following material is extracted from Procedures for Salvage of Water-Damaged Library Materials by Peter Waters, Restoration Officer, Library of Congress, 1975 (an LC Publication on Conservation of Library Materials.) Although i t is directed to the recovery of water-damaged books, many of the procedures, warnings, and structures also apply to other types of records and archival material. The reader wi l l find additional references in Appendix A: Referenced Publications and Informational Publications.

Assessment of Damage and Pl~mning for Salvage

Weather is the cr i t ica l factor in determining what course to take after any flood or f i re . in which museum, archival, or l ibrary materials are damaged. When i t is hot and humid, salvage must be ini t iated with a minimum of delay to prevent or control the growth of mold. When the weather is cold, more time can be taken to plan salvage operations and experiment with various drying procedures.

The f i rs t step is to establish the character and degree of damage. Once an accurate assessment of the damage has been made, firm pr ior i t ies and plans for salvaging the damaged materials can be drawn up. These plans must include a determination of the special fac i l i t ies and equipment required. Overcautious, unrealistic, or inadequate appraisals of damage can result in the loss of valuable materials. Speed is of the utmost importance, but careful planning is equally essential in the salvage effort.

Where water damage has resulted from f i re fighting measures, cooperation with the f i re marshal is v i ta l for a real ist ic appraisal of the feasib i l i ty of salvage efforts. Fire marshals and safety personnel wi l l decide when a damaged building is safe to enter. In some cases, areas involved in the f i re may require a week or longer before they are cool enough to be entered. Occasionally, parts of a collection may be identified early in the salvage planning effort as beiT~g especially vulnerable to destruction unless they receive attention within a few hours after the f i re has abated. I f the f i re marshal appreciates such needs, he may be able to provide means of access to the area e~en when otller parts of the building remain hazardous.

Once al l entrances and aisles are cleared, the most important collections, including rare materials and those of permanent research value, should be salvaged f i rs t , unless other materlals would be more severely damaged by prolonged immersion in water. Examples of the la t ter are books printed on paper of types widely produced between 1880 and 1946, now b r i t t l e or semibrittle. However, materials 'in this category that can be replaced should be le f t until last.

NFPA 232AM Salvage opera t ions must be planned so that the

environment o f f looded areas can be s t a b i l i z e d and c o n t r o l l e d both before and dur ing the removal o f the damaged ma te r i a l s . In warm, humid weather, mold growth may be expected to appear in a water-damaged area w i t h i n 48 hours. In any weather, mold w i l l appear w i t h i n 48 hours in unven t i l a t ed areas made wam and humid by recent f i r e in ad jacent par ts o f the b u i l d i n g . For t h i s reason, every e f f o r t should be made to reduce high temperatures and vent the areas as soon as the water has receded or been pumped out . Water-soaked ma te r i a l s must be kept as cool as poss ib le by good a i r c i r c u l a t i o n u n t i l they can be s t a b i l i z e d . To leave such ma te r i a l s more than 48 hours in temperatures above 70 ° (21 °) and humidi ty above 70 percent w i l l almost c e r t a i n l y r e s u l t in heavy mold growth and lead to high r e s t o r a t i o n costs .

Damaged most by these cond i t i ons are volumes p r in ted on coated stock and such h igh ly prote inaceous m a t e r i a l s as l e a t h e r and vel lum b ind ings. Starch- impregnated c lo ths , g lues, adhesives, and s tarch pastes are a f f ec ted to a l esse r degree. As l o n g a s books are t i g h t l y shelved, mold w i l l develop only on the ou te r edges of the b ind ings. Thus no at tempt should be made in these cond i t i ons to separate books and fan them open. Arch iva l f i l e s packed c l ose l y toge ther on; the shelves in cardboard boxes or in metal f i l e cabinets are the l e a s t a f f e c t e d .

As a general r u l e , damp books located in warm ~ld humid areas without ventilation wi l l be subject to rapid mold growth. Archival f i les that have not been disturbed wi l l not be attacked as quickly by mold. Very wet materials, or those s t i l l under water, wi l l not develop mold. As they begin to dry after removal from the water, however, both the bindings and the edges of books wi l l be quickly attacked by mold, especially when in warm, unventilated areas. A different problem exists for books printed on coated stock, since i f they are allowed to dry in this condition, the leaves wi l l be permanently fused together.

Summary of Emergency Procedures

I. I t is imperative to seek the advice and help of trained conservators with experience in salvaging water-damaged materials as soon as possible. The Library of Congress is an excellent information source for technical advice where needed. Contact: Preservation Office, Library of Congress, Washington, DC, Telephone (202) 287-5212.

2. Turn off heat and create free circulation of air.

3. Keep fans and air conditioning on at night, except when a fungicidal fogging operation is in process, because a constant flow of a i r is necessary to reduce the threat of mold.

4. Brief each worker carefully before salvage operations begin, giving fu l l information on the dangers of proceeding except as directed. Emphasize the seriousness of timing and the pr ior i t ies and aims of the whole operation. Instruct workers on means of recognizing manuscripts, materials with water-soluble components, leather and vellum bindings, materials printed on coated paper stock, and photographic materials.

S. Do not allow workers to attempt restorationlof any items on site. (This was a common error in the f i r s t ten days after the Florence flood, when rare and valuable leather- and vellum-bound volumes were subjected to scrubbing and processing to remove mud. This resulted in driving mud into the interstices of leather, vellum, cloth, and paper; caused extensiye damage to the volumes; and made the later work of restoration more d i f f i cu l t , time consuming, and extremely costly.)

6. Carry out al l cleaning operations, whether outside the building or in controlled environment rooms, by washing gently with fresh, cold running water and soft cellulose sponges to aid in the release of mud

745

NFPA 232AM

and f i l t h . Use sponges with a dabbing motion; do not rub. These instructions do not apply to materials with water soluble components. Such materials should be frozen as quickly as possible.

7. Do not attempt to open a wet book. (Wet paper is very weak and wi l l tear at a touch.) Hold a book f i rm ly closed when cleaning, especially when washing or sponging. A closed book is highly resistant to impregnation and damage.

8. Do not attempt to separate slngle-sheet materials unless they are supported on polyester film or fabric.

9. Do not attempt to remove al l mud by sponging. Mud is best removed from clothes when dry; this is also true of l ibrary materials.

I0. Do not remove covers from books, as they wi l l help to support the books during drying. When part ia l ly dry, books may be hung over nylon lines to f l , ish drying. Do not hang books from lines while they are very wet because the weight wil l cause damage to the inside folds of the sections.

11. Do not press books and documents mechanically when they are water soaked. This can force mud into tile paper and subject the materials to stresses that wil l damage their structures.

12. Use soft pencils for making notes on slips of paper but do not attempt to write on wet paper or other art i facts.

13. Clean, white blotter paper, white paper towels, strong to i le t paper, and unprinted newsprint paper may be used for interleaving in the drying process. When .othlng better is available, al l but the color sections of printed newpapers may be used. Great care must be taken to avoid rubbing the inked surface of the newspaper over the material being dried; otherwise some offsetting of the ink may occur.

14. Under no circumstances should newly dried materials be packed in boxes and lef t without attention for more than a few days.

15. Do not use bleaches,, detergents, water~-soloble fungicides, wire staples, paper or bulldog clips, adhesive tape, or adhesives of any kind. Never use felt-t ipped fiber or ballpoint pens or any marking device on wet paper. Never use colored blotting paper or colored paper of any kind to dry books and other documents.

Appendix C Referenced Publications and Informational Publications

A-I The following documents or portions thereof are referenced within this manual for informational purposes only and thus are not considered part of the recommendations of this document. The edition indicated for each reference is the current edition as of the date of the NFPA issuance of th is document.

Bryan, aohn L. Automatic Spri,kler and Standpipe Systems, Boston: National Fire Protection Association, 1976. 402 pp. i l l us . , bibilography.

This book is a detailed study of the functioning, engineering, and application of a variety of f i re suppression systems u t i l i z ing water as the extinguishing agent.

Custer, Richard L. P. and R. G. Bright. Fire Detection: The State-of-the-Art. NBS Technical Not 839. Washington, DC: National Bureau of Standards, US Dept. of Commerce, June 1974, II0 pp., i l l us . , bi bl i graphy.

Morris, John. Managing the Library Fire Risk Berkeley: University of California Office of Insurance and Risk Management, 1975, 99 pp.

Investigates various aspects of f i re prevention and control, with emphasis on the value of automatic f i re

protection systems. Contains descriptions of several l ibrary fires and a chapter on the salvage of wet books. Includes photos, chapter bibliographies, and articles reprinted from f i re Journals.

Advisory Committee on the Protection of Archives and Records Centers. Protecting Federal Records Centers and Archives From Fire. Washington, DC: General Services Adminlstrat~on, April 1977, 202 pp., i l lus . , bibliography.

Following the disastrous f i re in the mil i tary personnel records center in Overland, Missouri in July 1973, GSA appointed a committee to review the present state-of-the-art in records protection and to make recommendations on improved f i re protection practices for federal archives and records center. This book is the report of that committee.

Waters, Peter. Procedures for Salvage of Water-Damaged Library Materials. Washington, DC: The Library of Congress, 1975, 30 pp.

The most comprehensive and up-to-date manual on the salvage of water-damaged materials. Also contains a l l s t of individuals to contact for professional advice and sources for supplies, equipment, and services. Emphasis is placed on having a plan of action before the emergency occurs. Free from Library of Congress.

Federal Fire Council Recommended Practice No. Z (see page 8). (See also page 16.)

Willman, Spawn, "After the Water Comes," PLA Bulletin, Pennsylvania Library Association, Vol. 28, No. 6 (November 1973), pp 243-251.

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