_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Modular building
the sprinkler from operating as intended . Sprinkler obstructions are not permitted within 18 inches vertical clearance or 4 feet horizontal clearance ( 2022 NFPA 13 § 9.5.5.2.1 ).
• Notification appliances : due to the nature of privacy booths and their acoustic insulation , notification appliances installed outside a booth may not provide sufficient coverage for occupants within . Audible notification is to be at least 15 dB above the average ambient sound level or 5 dB above the maximum prolonged sound level ( IBC § 907.5.2.1.1 , 2022 NFPA 72 § 18.4.4.1 ). Sound attenuation may require installation of an audible notification appliance within the booth to achieve minimum sound pressure . Additionally , multi-user booths require a visual notification appliance inside the booth consistent with other common-use areas ( IBC § 907.5.2.3.1 ).
Making safety a priority
These are a few fire and nonstructural life safety code requirements to consider when installing privacy booths . Additional
considerations often include structural or seismic anchorage , mechanical ventilation , electrical reliability , and accessibility .
The need for occupant safety in buildings worldwide does not diminish as technology adapts to accommodate operational goals . By keeping these code requirements in mind , we can stay current with an ever-changing construction landscape and contribute to a safe and resilient built environment . ■
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Matisen Anders , PE ( CE , FPE ), PMP , is a Senior Consultant for fire and building safety at Jensen Hughes . Her expertise in building construction and design extends to the application of life safety codes , including NFPA , IBC and California Building Codes , code compliance review , egress analysis , alternative design requests , property condition assessments , and life safety code assessment surveys . Jeffrey Chiu , EIT , is a Fire Safety Code Consultant at Jensen Hughes , providing code consulting on large assembly occupancies , high-rise residential , commercial office buildings , healthcare , educational , laboratory , and hotel / resort projects .
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