Using Full-Scale Fire Testing to Demonstrate Building Code Compliance

In this webinar, WJE fire protection engineer Mike Rzeznik reviews a case study in which full-scale laboratory fire testing demonstrated that a previously approved ESFR upright sprinkler was capable of protecting double row rack Group A plastic storage at a higher ceiling height than the sprinkler was originally listed. The resulting solution was able to effectively protect the warehouse, while also saving the owner considerable construction cost as well as preserving the long-term real estate value.

By the end of the presentation, you will be able to:

• Evaluate the use of fire tests to validate alternative design concepts as a practical and cost-effective means to achieve compliance with the building code as well as an appropriate level of fire protection;
• Demonstrate that an existing approved upright ESFR sprinkler could effectively protect the existing condition despite the challenges of obstructions at the ceiling;
• Describe the coordination process among the owner, engineer, sprinkler manufacturer, and authority having jurisdiction in developing a full-scale test protocol to evaluate full-scale testing as a design solution; and
• Interpret full-scale fire test data as well as understand the overall cost impact of this creative problem-solving approach.

more to learn

View this webinar in our interactive audience console to access related resources, submit questions to the presenter, and download a certificate of completion.