Safe Fire Sprinkler and Smoke Detector Distance According to SNI & NFPA Standards – In the design of a fire protection system, understanding the correct distance between sprinklers and smoke detectors is crucial.

The Indonesian National Standard (SNI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide clear guidelines to ensure the effectiveness of fire detection and suppression systems.

This article will take an in-depth look at the safe distances recommended by both standards, and the importance of implementing these rules in creating a fire-safe environment.

What is the Fire Sprinkler Installation Spacing Distance According to NFPA?

Safe Fire Sprinkler and Smoke Detector Distance

The NFPA 13 standard provides detailed guidance on the maximum distance between upright and suspended sprinklers.

This standard is customized based on the level of hazard present in the room with the aim of providing effective coverage in a fire situation.

Light Hazard: For rooms with a light hazard, sprinklers can be installed a maximum of 15 feet (4.6 meters) apart from each other. This does not include sprinklers installed in concealed combustible areas, where needs may vary based on room-specific factors.
Ordinary Hazard: In an ordinary hazard environment, all sprinklers should have a maximum distance of 15 feet (4.6 meters) between each other. This arrangement ensures adequate coverage for most fire situations in environments with moderate fire risk.
Extra Hazard: For pipe schedule systems and hydraulic systems calculated at a density of 0.25 gallons per minute per square foot or more, the maximum spacing is 12 feet (3.7 meters). While hydraulic systems are calculated with a density lower than 0.25 gallons per minute per square foot, the maximum standard clearance is 15 feet (4.6 meters).
High Stack Storage: In high stacked storage systems, if the water density is 0.25 GPM per square foot or more, the maximum distance between sprinklers is 12 feet (3.7 meters). For systems with densities below 0.25 GPM, the standard maximum spacing is 15 feet (4.6 meters).

Also Read: “The SNI Certification for a Fire Hydrant Installation“

Safe Fire Sprinkler and Smoke Detector Distance According to SNI & NFPA Standards

1. NFPA

One of the challenges in installing a fire sprinkler system is the placement of sprinkler and smoke detector spacing.

NFPA 72 provides specific recommendations regarding the placement of these two components for effective functioning as follows:

Sprinklers should be installed a minimum distance of 6 feet (1.8 meters) from the smoke detector. This distance is intended to prevent sensor interference by water sprayed by the sprinkler while in operation.
Smoke detectors must be installed a minimum of 4 inches (10 cm) from the wall if mounted on the ceiling and a minimum of 4 inches (10 cm) from the ceiling if mounted on the wall. The goal is for the smoke detector to detect smoke efficiently and not be obstructed by the building structure.

2. SNI

The Indonesian National Standard (SNI) also provides guidance on the ideal placement of sprinklers and smoke detectors.

The following SNI standards are critical to maximizing early detection and effective response to fires:

Sprinklers should be placed about 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) from the smoke detector. This distance is considered ideal to ensure that the water sprayed by the sprinkler does not interfere with the operation of the smoke detector.
Smoke detectors should be installed at least 30 centimeters from the highest point of the wall or ceiling. This ensures that the detector can operate with enough space to detect smoke without the influence of structural obstacles.

So there you have it! Safe Fire Sprinkler and Smoke Detector Distance According to SNI & NFPA Standards!

Adhering to NFPA and SNI standards ensures that these two devices can function optimally in detecting and tackling fires as quickly as possible.

This will provide maximum fire protection for the building and its occupants.