FM Global

Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets 3-26

April 2019
Interim Revision October 2021
Page 1 of 25

FIRE PROTECTION FOR NONSTORAGE OCCUPANCIES

Table of Contents
Page

1.0 SCOPE ..................................................................................................................................................... 2

1.1 Hazards ............................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2 Changes ............................................................................................................................................ 2
1.2.1 Superseded Information ................................................................................................................. 3
2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 3
2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 3
2.2 Occupancy ......................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Protection ........................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3.1 General ................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3.2 Incidental Storage ................................................................................................................... 6
2.3.3 Low-Piled Storage ................................................................................................................... 7
2.3.4 Storage .................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3.5 Water Mist Systems ................................................................................................................ 9
2.3.6 Residential Occupancies ....................................................................................................... 10
2.3.7 High-Density Movable Shelving Units ................................................................................... 11
3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................. 11
3.1 General ............................................................................................................................................ 11
3.1.1 Hazard Categories ................................................................................................................. 11
3.2 Nonstorage Occupancy Fire Protection ........................................................................................... 11
3.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries ........................................................................................................................ 12
3.4 High-Density Movable Shelving Units ............................................................................................. 12
3.5 Desalination Plants .......................................................................................................................... 13
3.6 Nonstorage Protection Research .................................................................................................... 13
3.6.1 Residential Occupancies ....................................................................................................... 13
4.0 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................... 14
4.1 FM Global ....................................................................................................................................... 14
4.2 Other ................................................................................................................................................ 14
APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS ...................................................................................................... 14
APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY ...................................................................................... 16
APPENDIX C HAZARD CATEGORY EXAMPLES ...................................................................................... 19

List of Figures
Fig. 2.2.1. Flowchart for determining appropriate use of Data Sheet 3-26 .................................................. 3
Fig. 3.4-1. High-density movable shelving unit ........................................................................................... 12
Fig. 3.4-2.High-density movable shelving unit ............................................................................................. 13

List of Tables
Table 2.2.2. Hazard Categories Based on Predominant Occupancy ............................................................. 4
Table 2.3.1.10 Sprinkler Design Demands for Hazard Categories ................................................................ 6
Table 2.3.2.4. Incidental Storage of Ignitable Liquids in HC-1 Occupancies in Containers of Any
Construction ............................................................................................................................. 7
Table 2.3.3.1. Sprinkler Protection Guidelines for Low-Piled Storage ........................................................... 8
Table C-1. Nonstorage, Non-Manufacturing Occupancies and their Associated Fire Hazard Categories . 20
Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories .............................. 22
Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d) ................. 23

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
Page 2 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet provides recommendations for fire protection in nonstorage occupancies. A nonstorage
occupancy is an area or building consisting of equipment, processes, and/or materials that are not maintained
in a storage arrangement. These materials may be combustible or noncombustible. The occupancy may
contain industrial or manufacturing processes as well as non-manufacturing operations such as office, retail,
or residential occupancies.

1.1 Hazards
Nonstorage occupancies, such as manufacturing areas, typically have limited storage, but the storage that
is present, in combination with the equipment, processes, and materials used, still creates a fire hazard.
Automatic sprinklers in these occupancies work to limit the fire size and protect the building. The protection
designs covered in this data sheet are not intended for occupancies with the following due to the increased
fire hazard:
• Ignitable liquid storage or use in HC-1 occupancies in excess of the quantities considered incidental
• Combustible dust or lint collected on horizontal surfaces
• Plastic construction elements
• Concealed/shielded spaces with combustible construction or content
• Storage heights or areas that are greater than that provided in incidental storage
The situations listed above may need additional sprinkler coverage, enhanced sprinkler designs, or other
loss prevention measures. Always refer to hazard-specific data sheets, when applicable, for additional
recommendations.
Refer to Understanding the Hazard (UTH): Lack of Automatic Sprinklers (P0037) for detailed information
on the hazards associated with this data sheet.

1.2 Changes
October 2021. Interim revision. Significant changes include the following:
A. Incorporated guidance from Data Sheet 2-5, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers in
Residential Occupancies. Data Sheet 2-5 has been made obsolete.
B. Clarified acceptable storage arrangements for incidental and low-pile storage (Sections 2.3.2, 2.3.3,
3.3.3, 3.3.4, and Appendix A).
C. Added lithium-ion battery protection guidance (Sections 2.3.2.5 and 2.3.3.2) and clarified that battery
manufacturing in Table C-1 includes lithium-ion batteries.
D. Added water mist protection guidance for HC-2 and HC-3 occupancies (Section 2.3.5).
E. Added protection guidance for high-density movable shelving (Section 2.3.7).
F. Clarified when to adjust hazard category for theaters (Table C-1).
G. Changed hazard category and description of car workshops to HC-3 with the description updated to
car manufacturing/assembly (Table C-2).
H. Added protection guidance for desalination plants (Table C-2 and Section 3.3).
I. Added the removal of Table 4 to the changes in Appendix B, April 2019 revision.
J. Renumbered tables and figures to match the section in which they are located.

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 3

1.2.1 Superseded Information

This document supersedes Data Sheet 2-5, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers in Residential
Occupancies, and Engineering Bulletin EB 04-12, New Protection Guidance for Extended Coverage
Sprinklers for Nonstorage Applications, which have been incorporated into the data sheet.

2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS

2.1 Introduction
2.1.1 Use FM Approved equipment, materials, and services whenever they are applicable and available.
For a list of products and services that are FM Approved, see the Approval Guide, an online resource of FM
Approvals.

2.2 Occupancy
2.2.1 There may be guidance and recommendations in other data sheets that supersede those within Data
Sheet 3-26. Use Figure 2.2.1 to determine the appropriate treatment of storage in Data Sheet 3-26 or the
appropriate data sheet to use when the storage falls outside what is considered incidental and low-pile
storage.

Is the storage
solid-pile or
palletized?

Treat as storage and refer to DS 8-9

for storage of Class 1-4 and plastics.

Fig. 2.2.1. Flowchart for determining appropriate use of Data Sheet 3-26

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
Page 4 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

2.2.2 Use Table 2.2.2 to determine the hazard category (HC) based on the predominant occupancy. See
Appendix C For specific examples of HC-1, HC-2, and HC-3 occupancies.

Table 2.2.2. Hazard Categories Based on Predominant Occupancy

Hazard
Category Predominant Occupancy
HC-1 Areas with light overall combustible loading with limited combustibles used in processes, or
operations of low hazard. This includes combustible furnishings that are typically noncontinuous in
well-subdivided areas. This hazard category does not include any incidental storage of plastics, or
plastics used in the construction of walls and/or ceilings.This hazard category can have incidental
amounts of ignitable liquids in accordance with 2.3.2.4.

Examples include residential, offices, noncombustible manufacturing, and hospitals.

HC-2 Areas with moderate continuous combustible loading with combustibles in processes, or operations
of moderate hazard due to limited quantities of plastics or ignitable liquids.

Examples include manufacturing, such as machine shops, woodworking, and electronic assembly,
as well as retail, theatres, and food production.
HC-3 Areas with generally continuous heavier combustible loading with limited quantities of ignitable
liquids and/or heavier amounts of plastics.

Examples include plastic manufacturing, vehicle manufacturing and assembly, and printing plants.
Note: Refer to Appendix C, Tables C-1 and C-2, for considerations when applying a hazard category. The examples listed here are typical
for each hazard category but may need to be adjusted to a higher or lower category based on the specific occupancy details. Refer to the
relevant hazard/occupancy-specific data sheets, if applicable.

2.2.3 Classify buildings that are of wood construction but otherwise contain no combustible materials as HC-1
occupancies.
2.2.4 Identify spaces concealed from ceiling sprinklers that have combustible construction features or contain
combustible material and provide sprinkler protection in those spaces. Concealed spaces can include
equipment with combustible material; areas obstructed by ductwork, light fixtures, or hoods; and hidden
combustible construction.
2.2.4.1 Protect combustible concealed spaces as HC-1 in accordance with FM Global Data Sheet 1-12,
Ceilings and Concealed Spaces.
2.2.4.2 Protect other shielded areas, including machine covers, spray booths, ovens, printing presses,
combustible ductwork, plastic tanks, and conveyors, as follows:
A. Where a data sheet relevant to these hazards or occupancies exists, adhere to the recommendations
in that data sheet.
B. Otherwise, protect underneath the shielded area with sprinklers providing the same density as the ceiling
system and in accordance with Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
2.2.5 For locations with mixed occupancy hazards that are not separated by fire partitions, protect for the
greatest hazard or see Data Sheet 2-0 for other protection options.
2.2.6 Establish and implement a housekeeping program to minimize accumulations of lint, dust, and other
combustible materials.

2.3 Protection

2.3.1 General
2.3.1.1 See Data Sheet 1-57, Plastics in Construction, for protection guidance when building construction
contains plastic.
2.3.1.2 Install sprinklers in accordance with Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
2.3.1.2.1 Install automatic sprinklers below solid or grated mezzanines and in concealed/shielded spaces
with combustible materials in accordance with Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers
and Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces.

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 5

2.3.1.3 In addition to the recommendations in this data sheet, refer to Data Sheet 2-8, Earthquake Protection
for Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, for facilities located in earthquake-prone regions.
2.3.1.4 Install a wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, or antifreeze sprinkler system to protect nonstorage
occupancies.
2.3.1.4.1 An FM Approved water mist system may be used to provide primary protection (i.e., in lieu of
automatic sprinkler protection) for HC-1, HC- 2, and HC-3 occupancies when installed in accordance with
Section 2.3.5, its Approval listing, and Data Sheet 4-2, Water Mist Systems.
2.3.1.5 Use wet-pipe sprinkler systems unless the protected area is refrigerated or unheated, and the
temperature can fall below 40°F (4°C). See Data Sheet 2-0, Section 2.4, for further information. For wet-pipe
sprinkler systems, use the following sprinklers:
• Sidewall (HC-1 and HC-2 occupancies only), pendent, upright, or dry-pendent.
• Nominal 160°F (70°C) temperature rating. Only use sprinklers with a nominal temperature rating of 212°F
(100°C) where the ambient temperature is in excess of 100°F (38°C).
• Standard coverage or extended coverage.
• Standard response or quick response. Do not use standard response sprinklers when ceiling heights are
greater than 60 ft (18 m).
2.3.1.6.1 Use the following sprinklers for dry-pipe sprinkler systems:
• Upright or dry-pendent. Dry sidewall can be used under certain conditions; see Data Sheet 2-0.
• Nominal 280°F (140°C) temperature rating. Nominal 165°F (70°C) sprinklers are acceptable for HC-1 and
HC-2 occupancies.
• Standard coverage.
• Standard response. Quick-response sprinklers are acceptable for HC-1 and HC-2 occupancies.
2.3.1.6.2 For dry-pipe and equivalent sprinkler systems, if a maximum water delivery time is not specified
in an occupancy-specific data sheet, us one of the following water delivery times:
• 60 seconds with the operation of the single most remote sprinkler
• 40 seconds with the operation of the most remote four sprinklers (two sprinklers on two lines)
2.3.1.7 Treat single-interlocked preaction sprinkler systems as either wet-pipe or dry-pipe systems. Treat
non-interlocked or double-interlocked preaction sprinkler systems as dry-pipe systems. See Data Sheet 5-48
for additional guidance on preaction systems, including detector spacing.
2.3.1.8 Treat anti-freeze sprinkler systems as wet-pipe systems. See Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines
for Automatic Sprinklers, for additional guidance antifreeze solution sprinkler systems.
2.3.1.9 Use minimum sprinkler K-factors and recommended minimum and maximum sprinkler spacings for
each hazard category and ceiling height in accordance with FM Global Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines
for Automatic Sprinklers.
2.3.1.10 Design the sprinkler system in accordance with Table 2.3.1.10, based on the applicable hazard
category. These designs are not intended for areas with the following conditions (see the applicable data
sheets listed for further guidance):
A. Ignitable liquid storage or use in excess of the quantities considered incidental. (See Data Sheet 7-29,
Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers, or Data Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations.)
B. Combustible dust or lint collected on horizontal surfaces within the occupancy. (See Data Sheet 7-1,
Fire Protection for Textile Mills; Data Sheet 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of Combustible Dust Explosions
and Fire; or other data sheets as applicable.)
C. Plastic construction elements. (See Data Sheet 1-57, Plastics in Construction.)
D. Concealed/shielded spaces with combustible construction or content. (See Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings
and Concealed Spaces, or Section 2.2.4 in this data sheet.)

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
Page 6 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

E. Storage amounts or areas greater than that provided in incidental storage. (See Data Sheet 8-9, Storage
of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities.)
Additional sprinkler coverage, enhanced sprinkler designs, or other loss prevention measures may be needed
for these situations.

Table 2.3.1.10 Sprinkler Design Demands for Hazard Categories

Ceiling Height up to 30 ft Ceiling Height 30-45 ft Ceiling Height 45-60 ft Ceiling Height 60-100 ft
(9 m) (9-13.5 m) (13.5-18 m) (18-30 m)
Hazard (gpm/ft2)/ft2 [(mm/min)/m2]
Category Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry Wet Dry
HC-1 0.1/1500 0.1/1500 0.2/2500 0.2/3500 0.2/2500 0.2/3500 0.6/1200 Design
Note 1
(4/140) (4/140) (8/230) (8/330) (8/230) (8/330) (24/110) guidance
currently
unavailable.
HC-2 0.2/2500 0.2/3500 0.2/2500 0.2/3500 0.2/2500 0.2/3500 0.6/1200
Note 2
(8/230) (8/330) (8/230) (8/330) (8/230) (8/330) (24/110)

HC-3 0.3/2500 0.3/3500 0.3/3600 0.3/4600 0.5/3000 0.5/4000 0.6/1200

(12/230)Note 2 (12/330) (12/340) (12/430) (20/280) (20/370) (24/110)
Note 1. The demand area for dormitories, residential, and dwelling type areas may be based on the largest room area, but not less than
four sprinklers provided fire compartmentation with a minimum one hour fire rating is present. Treat corridors as rooms in making this
determination.

Note 2. For HC-2 and HC-3 occupancies with ceiling heights not in excess of 30 ft (9.1 m) and protected by wet sprinkler systems, the
designs for these occupancies can be reduced to the following when 160ºF (70ºC) K11.2EC (K160EC) upright or 160ºF (70ºC) K14.0EC
(K200EC) upright sprinklers are being installed:
• K11.2EC: 0.30 gpm/ft2 over 1500 ft2 (12 mm/min over 140 m2). Ensure a minimum of 6 sprinklers in the design
• K14.0EC: 0.30 gpm/ft2 over 1000 ft2 (12 mm/min over 90 m2). Ensure a minimum of 4 sprinklers in the design

2.3.1.11 Regardless of the design demands in Table 2.3.1.10, provide a minimum design pressure at the
most remote sprinkler per the sprinkler’s FM Approval listing.
2.3.1.12 Provide a hose stream allowance of 250 gpm (950 L/min) for HC-1 and HC-2 occupancies, and a
hose stream allowance of 500 gpm (1900 L/min) for HC-3 occupancies.
2.3.1.13 Ensure a water supply capable of providing the design sprinkler discharge flow rate plus hose stream
for 60 minutes for all hazard categories.
2.3.1.14 Manufacturing and assembly of large, contiguous components, such as large aircraft, boats, and
wind turbine blades, create the potential for shielded fires. The presence of these operations represents an
increased fire hazard beyond typical HC-2 or HC-3 occupancies. For ceilings below 60 ft (18 m) use Table
2.3.1.10. For ceilings above 60 ft (18 m) protect these areas with K25.2 (K360) sprinklers using a design of
12 sprinklers at 50 psi (2.5 bar).

2.3.2 Incidental Storage

2.3.2.1 Treat solid-pile, palletized, rack, shelf, or bin-box storage of Class 1-3 commodities up to 10 ft (3
m) high and no more than 200 ft2 (20 m2) in area as incidental to the occupancy. Provide protection using
Table 2.3.1.10.
2.3.2.2 In HC-2 and HC-3 occupancies, treat solid-pile, palletized, rack, shelf, or bin-box storage of plastic
commodities up to 6 ft (1.8 m) high and no more than 64 ft2 (6 m2) in area (approximately four pallets) as
incidental to the occupancy. Provide protection using Table 2.3.1.10.
2.3.2.3. Multiple areas of storage within the limits listed in Sections 2.3.2.1 and 2.3.2.2 may still be considered
as incidental to the occupancy if separated by aisles not less than 8 ft (2.4 m) wide.
2.3.2.4 Evaluate the storage/use of ignitable liquids in sprinklered HC-1 occupancies with noncombustible
construction in accordance with the following and Table 2.3.2.4:
A. Do not store any ignitable liquids in stairwells, aisles, or any area in which foot traffic is expected.

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 7

B. Locate larger quantities or container sizes, regardless of bottle construction, outside the building in FM
Approved ignitable liquid cabinets or safety cans.

Table 2.3.2.4. Incidental Storage of Ignitable Liquids in HC-1 Occupancies in Containers of Any Construction
Total Quantity of Ignitable
Liquid Type Maximum Container Size Liquid Location
Non-water-miscible 8 oz (240 ml) 8 oz (240 ml) Anywhere
Any > 8 oz (240 ml) Outside building/FM
Approved ignitable liquid
cabinets or safety cans
Group 1 water-miscible 1 gal (3.8 L) 1 gal (3.8 L) Anywhere
5 gal (19 L) 5 gal (19 L) Storage rooms with
noncombustible walls or
regular metal cabinets
Group 2-4 water-miscible 5 gal (19 L) 5 gal (19 L) Anywhere
5 gal (19 L) 20 gal (76 L) Storage rooms with
noncombustible walls or
regular metal cabinets

2.3.2.5 Treat the storage and production of lithium-ion batteries in sprinklered HC-3 occupancies as incidental
if the following criteria are met:
A. Limit storage area to no more than 200 ft2 (20 m2).
B. Limit storage height to 6 ft (1.8 m).
C. Separate multiple storage areas by aisles not less than 10 ft (3.0 m) wide.
D. Maintain a battery state of charge ≤ 60%.
2.3.2.5.1 Follow the protection guidance for lithium-ion batteries in Data Sheet 8-1, Commodity Classification,
when storage area or height is exceeded.

2.3.3 Low-Piled Storage

2.3.3.1 Where solid-pile or palletized storage exceeds the area limitations in Section 2.3.2.1 and 2.3.2.2 but
not the height limitations, treat it as low-piled storage and provide protection in accordance with Table 2.3.3.1
and the installation requirements for Storage sprinklers per Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for
Automatic Sprinklers.

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 Table 2.3.3.1. Sprinkler Protection Guidelines for Low-Piled Storage

Page 8
3-26
Wet System, Pendent Sprinklers, 160°F (70°C), Number of AS @ psi (bar)
Commodity Max. Ceiling Quick-Response Standard-Response
Height, ft (m) K11.2 (K160) K14.0 (K200) K16.8 (K240) K22.4 (K320) K25.2 (K360) K25.2EC K11.2 (K160) K14.0 (K200) K19.6 (K280) K25.2 (K360)
(K360EC)
Up to CEP 30 (9) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 15 (1) 25 @ 15 (1) 6 @ 52 (3.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 16 (1) 25 @ 15 (1)
Note 1 45 (14) 25 @ 16 (1) 25 @ 10 (0.7) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 15 (1) 25 @ 15 (1) 6 @ 52 (3.5)
60 (18) 25 @ 16 (1) 25 @ 10 (0.7) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 15 (1) 25 @ 15 (1) 6 @ 52 3.5)
UUP 30 (9) 25 @ 50 (3.4) 10 @ 62 (4.3) 10 @ 43 (3) 14 @ 24 (1.7) 14 @ 19 (1.3) 25 @ 50 (3.4) 25 @ 15 (1)

Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies

45 (14) 10 @ 62 (4.3) 10 @ 43 (3) 14 @ 24 (1.7) 14 @ 19 (1.3
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60 (18) 10 @ 50 (3.4) 10 @ 40 (2.8)

Wet System, Upright Sprinklers, 160°F (70°C), Number of AS @ psi (bar)
Commodity Max. Ceiling Quick-Response Standard-Response
Height, ft (m) K11.2 (K160) K14.0 (K200) K14.0EC K16.8 (K240) K25.2EC K11.2 (K160) K16.8 (K240) K25.2 (K360)
(K200 EC) (K360EC)
Up to CEP 30 (9) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 6 @ 73 (5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 6 @ 52 (3.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 25 @ 7 (0.5)
Note 1 45 (14) 25 @ 16 (1) 25 @ 10 (0.7) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 6 @ 52 (3.5)
60 (18) 25 @ 16 (1) 25 @ 10 (0.7) 25 @ 7 (0.5) 6 @ 52 (3.5)
UUP 30 (9) 25 @ 50 (3.4) 10 @ 62 (4.3) 10 @ 43 (3) 25 @ 50 (3.4) 25 @ 22 (1.5) 25 @ 15 (1)
45 (14) 10 @ 62 (4.3) 10 @ 43 (3)

FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

60 (18)
1
Protect Class 1-3 commodities stored up to 10 ft (3 m) high using the guidelines for CEP commodities stored under a 30 ft (9 m) ceiling.
Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 9

2.3.3.2 Do not treat lithium-ion batteries as low-piled storage. See Data Sheet 8-1, Commodity Classification,
when storage areas exceed the incidental storage limitations in Section 2.3.2.5.

2.3.4 Storage
2.3.4.1 Where the storage height limitations in Section 2.3.2.1 and 2.3.2.2 are exceeded, protect the storage
area in accordance with Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 and Plastic Commodities.

2.3.5 Water Mist Systems

2.3.5.1 Design the water mist system for the application hazard category in accordance with the associated
FM Approval listing and the recommendations in this section.
2.3.5.1.1 Only water mist systems specifically FM Approved to provide adequate protection for the listed
hazard category and its associated limitations are acceptable.
Water mist systems have ceiling height limitations associated with their FM Approval. This is a critical
parameter in the design of water mist systems to ensure adequate protection is provided. This parameter
may limit the use of a water mist system for a particular occupancy such that it cannot be provided even though
being FM Approved for the hazard category. In addition, the parameter in the FM Approval listing for
application of a manufacturer’s water mist system in an “unrestricted” space as compared to an “enclosure”
needs to be properly applied for the occupancy and hazard being protected.
2.3.5.1.2 These designs are not intended for occupancies with the following conditions:
A. Ignitable liquid storage or use in excess of the quantities considered incidental. (See Section 2.3.2.4
and Data Sheet 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers, or Data Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid
Operations.)
B. Combustible dust or lint collected on horizontal surfaces within the occupancy. (See Data Sheets 7-1,
Fire Protection for Textile Mills, and Data Sheet 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of Combustible Dust
Explosions and Fire.)
C. Plastic construction elements. (See Data Sheet 1-57, Plastics in Construction.)
D. Concealed/shielded spaces with combustible construction or content, including high-density moveable
shelving units, unless in compliance with Section 2.3.5.1.3. (See Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed
Spaces, Section 2.2.4 or Section 2.3.7 in this data sheet.)
E. Occupancies with solid or grated mezzanines, unless in compliance with Section 2.3.5.1.3.
F. Occupancies with heat and/or smoke vents and other exhaust openings at ceiling level.
G. Storage amounts or areas greater than provided in incidental storage. (See Data Sheet 8-9, Storage
of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities.)
H. Storage of any amount of uncartoned plastics.
I. Areas exposed to outdoor conditions (wind, temperatures, etc.), such as open parking garages.
2.3.5.1.3 Provide occupancies with concealed/shielded spaces or mezzanines (grated or solid) with protection
in/below those obstructions if combustibles are present. The ability to install water mist nozzles in those areas
will depend on the FM Approval listing and the manufacturer’s installation rules.
2.3.5.2 Install the water mist system in accordance with the recommendations in this section and the following:
• the FM Approval Guide listing for the specific hazard category
• the manufacturer’s FM Approved design, installation, operation and maintenance manual
• Data Sheet 4-2, Water Mist Systems
2.3.5.2.1 Install automatic nozzles using the following as specified in the system’s FM Approval Guide listing
and FM Approved design, installation, operation and maintenance manual:
• Minimum linear spacing
• Maximum linear spacing, but not to exceed 16 ft (4.9 m)
• Maximum distance from the wall

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
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• Maximum ceiling height

• Maximum clearance between ceiling and nozzle
• Obstructions
• Minimum operating pressure (for each nozzle within the design area)
• Minimum fire resistance of enclosure 30 minutes
2.3.5.3 Limit the use of water mist systems to wet pipe distribution systems.
2.3.5.4 Limit the use of water mist systems to areas with the following types of smooth, flat ceilings and with
ceiling slopes not exceeding 1 in./ft (83 mm/m):
• Flat slab, reinforced concrete
• Smooth, monolithic ceilings attached to the underside of wood joists, wood trusses and bar joists
• Suspended ceilings
2.3.5.5 Water mist nozzles of different hazard categories can be used on the same system if a water supply
capable of supporting the greatest rate of flow and terminal nozzle pressure for the demand area is provided.
2.3.5.6 Determine the design area for water mist systems FM Approved for use in HC-1 occupancies with
unrestricted enclosure areas using whichever of the following is greater:
A. The hydraulically most remote nine (9) automatic nozzles
B. All automatic nozzles within a 1500 ft2 (140 m2) demand area
2.3.5.7 Determine the design area for water mist systems FM Approved for use in HC-1 occupancies with
specified maximum compartment area to supply all automatic nozzles within the compartment.
2.3.5.8. Determine the design area for water mist systems in corridors that can be protected by one row of
nozzles, using whichever of the following is less:
A. A maximum of five (5) automatic nozzles for the demand area.
B. In an unrestricted enclosure area, all automatic nozzles within a 1500 ft2 (140 m2) demand area.
C. For corridors smaller than 1500 ft2 (140 m2) all automatic nozzles in the area.
2.3.5.9 Determine the design area for water mist systems FM Approved for HC-2 and HC-3 occupancies
using whichever of the following is greater:
A. The hydraulically most remote nine (9) automatic nozzles.
B. The hydraulically most remote number of automatic nozzles as specified in the FM Approval listing.
2.3.5.10 Provide a hose stream allowance of 250 gpm (950 L/min) for HC-1 and HC-2 occupancies, and a
hose stream allowance of 500 gpm (1900 L/min) for HC-3 occupancies.
2.3.5.11 Ensure a water supply capable of providing the maximum water mist system demand for the design
area plus hose stream allowance for 60 minutes for all hazard categories.

2.3.6 Residential Occupancies

2.3.6.1 Treat residential occupancies as HC-1 Occupancies.
2.3.6.2 Use FM Approved residential sprinklers or FM Approved quick-response, Nonstorage sprinklers. The
Approval Guide lists residential sprinklers as “Residential Mode Sprinklers.”
2.3.6.3 Use FM Approved sprinkler system components, including valves, piping, and piping connections.
2.3.6.4 Install residential sprinklers in accordance with this section and their listing in the Approval Guide. Do
not install sprinklers on a spacing of less than 8 ft (2.4 m).
2.3.6.4.1 For installation guidance, refer to Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
2.3.6.5 Design the density of residential sprinkler systems in accordance with Table 2.3.1.10.
2.3.6.6 Provide sprinkler protection in combustible concealed areas per Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and
Concealed Spaces.

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2.3.7 High-Density Movable Shelving Units

2.3.7.1 Protect high-density movable shelving units up to 8 ft (2.4 m) high as an HC-3 occupancy when both
of the following conditions are met:
A. Storage of commodities does not exceed Class 3 hazard.
B. Shelving units are noncombustible with side panels.
See Section 3.4 for supporting information and example photographs of high-density movable shelving units.
2.3.7.2 Maintain a minimum sprinkler clearance from the top of storage in accordance with the following:
A. Provide 20 in. (510 mm) clearance for sprinklers (excluding Extended-Coverage).
B. Provide 6 in. (150 mm) clearance for Extended-Coverage sprinklers.
2.3.7.3 Provide bumpers to maintain a minimum of 1 in. (25 mm) flue space between all moving units when
pushed together.
2.3.7.4 Install FM Approved smoke detection that sends an alarm to an attended location.
2.3.7.5 Limit storage of combustibles around the shelving units.
2.3.7.6 When the high-density mobile shelving units do not meet the recommendations in this section, see
Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities.

3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS

3.1 General

3.1.1 Hazard Categories

This data sheet recommends sprinkler protection based on the expected fire hazard of a building or area.
The fire hazard depends on the occupancy, exposure, and combustible loading. This data sheet approximates
an area’s fire hazard by assigning a hazard category (HC) to the area, where HC-1, HC-2, and HC-3
represent an increasing hazard level with the potential for a more severe fire event.
A nonstorage occupancy is an area or building consisting of equipment, processes, and/or materials that
are not maintained in a storage arrangement. These materials may be combustible or noncombustible. The
operation may include industrial or manufacturing processes, as well as nonmanufacturing locations such
as offices or residential occupancies. Other codes and standards may refer to these areas as “light hazard”
or “ordinary hazard” occupancies.

3.2 Nonstorage Occupancy Fire Protection

Automatic sprinkler protection is the best defense against a fire. Sprinklers have proven to be the most
practical and reliable means of controlling a fire in business and industry. Sprinkler protection minimizes not
only fire damage, but also nonthermal damage, and allows for quick resumption of normal operations.
Sprinklers are needed wherever the building construction or occupancy is combustible.
The majority of fires in nonstorage occupancies in buildings with lower ceiling heights are controlled or
extinguished as long as a sufficient sprinkler density is provided over a reasonable operating area. Variations
in attributes such as temperature rating, RTI, orientation, and orifice size, among others, have had a limited
effect on sprinkler performance in nonstorage occupancy fires, provided no critical deficiencies exist (e.g.,
obstruction to sprinkler discharge, a lack of sprinklers underneath obstructions or within concealed spaces).
If the fire hazard exceeds that of a typical nonstorage occupancy, enhanced sprinkler protection may be
needed, and the sprinkler system’s performance may become more sensitive to specific automatic sprinkler
attributes. Examples of these increased fire hazards include the following:
• The presence of ignitable liquid storage or use in excess of the quantities considered incidental
• The presence of combustible deposits such as dust, lint, oil, or other residues
• The presence of plastic construction elements
• The presence of concealed/shielded spaces with combustible construction or content

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• The presence of solid or grated mezzanines

• The presence of storage

3.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion battery protection in nonstorage occupancies is based on maintaining a hazard less than or equal
to that of incidental storage. This is accomplished by limiting the footprint and height of the allowable storage
area and providing separation from surrounding combustibles. The limited available test data indicates that
lithium-ion battery fires can exceed the common water durations for nonstorage occupancies. The batteries
also vent a flammable gas during failure (thermal runaway) that can accumulate to form an explosive mixture
in confined spaces, or containers, which can also further spread the fire. The limitations for incidental storage
of lithium-ion batteries are based on this knowledge to limit the fire to a known area, to promote cooling of
the batteries and packaging from the sprinkler protection, and to limit the overall hazard. Low-piled storage of
lithium-ion batteries is not recommended as the fire may continue to spread throughout the storage because
the fire cannot be stopped with the sprinkler protection provided.

3.4 High-Density Movable Shelving Units

High-density movable shelving units are usually found in office spaces, health care facilities, universities,
and libraries for file and archive storage. The shelving units are typically installed on tracks so each unit can
move to create an aisle as needed. This allows for a high-density storage area with only one aisle space
to access any part of the storage. Examples of this storage type are shown in Figures 3.4-1 and 3.4-2.

Fig. 3.4-1. High-density movable shelving unit

The main challenge for fire protection with high-density movable shelving units is the shielded condition
inherently created by the unit’s design. The compact fuel, such as books and paper files, can have a high
heat retention, which may delay the operation of sprinklers. Therefore, it is important to have smoke detection
in these areas as the smoke detector will operate much faster than a sprinkler. Fire tests with this type of
storage typically had first sprinklers activating around 20 minutes after ignition when the storage was open
with fires toward the aisle spaces, and in more than 45 minutes after ignition when the fire was located within
the storage. It will also be difficult for sprinklers to obtain final extinguishment given the shielded conditions.

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Fig. 3.4-2.High-density movable shelving unit

Therefore, manual response will be needed for final extinguishment and potentially during cleanup as
reignition can occur or intensify any residual burning when fresh air is introduced.

3.5 Desalination Plants

Desalination plants are constructed in a multitude of sizes to fit the application, and consist of pumps, reverse
osmosis trains, piping, and tanks. Plants being built today are typically designed to handle 40-50 million
gallons of water per day. Typical hazards include various plastic components such as piping and tanks in
the reverse osmosis area of the facility. The wall of the pipes and tanks are usually thick enough to support
combustion should a fire occur; despite being filled with water. System components are usually full of water
unless maintenance is being performed, in which case the portion of the system undergoing maintenance
is drained. Multiple trains can be down for maintenance at any time. Since the trains are not filled with water
during maintenance, they are more vulnerable to fire and represent a greater hazard than when they are
filled with water.
The protection of reverse osmosis trains is based on limiting the fire spread to one train and preventing the
involvement of surrounding trains. The fire spreading vertically up the pipes is the main challenge as this
will be faster than the horizontal spread along the pipes. The more congested the pipes, the greater the
hazard. The reverse osmosis trains are highly vulnerable to smoke damage. If smoke can move freely
throughout the space, the smoke can damage additional trains.

3.6 Nonstorage Protection Research

3.6.1 Residential Occupancies

FM Global has been involved in the development of the residential sprinkler since the United States Fire
Administration (USFA) began its program in 1976. FM Global continues to conduct testing on residential
sprinklers in an effort to determine the minimum criteria that will ensure there is no fire spread or loss of
property beyond the room in which a fire starts (see Section 4.1).

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FM Global conducted a study to examine the impact of automatic fire sprinkler technology on environmental
sustainability. The work included an evaluation of risk factors, such as fires, on the total lifecycle carbon
emissions of a typical single- or two-family home, as well as quantification of the environmental benefits
achieved when automatic fire sprinklers are used. Large-scale fire tests were conducted using identically
constructed and furnished residential living rooms. In one test, fire extinguishment was achieved solely by fire
service intervention, and in the other, a single residential automatic sprinkler was used to control the fire
until fire extinguishment was achieved by the fire service. Comparisons of the total greenhouse gas
production, quantity of water required to extinguish the fire, quality of water run-off, potential impact of
wastewater runoff on groundwater and surface water, and mass of materials requiring disposal between the
two tests were made. The results showed that, in addition to providing life safety and limiting property
damage, the use of automatic sprinklers is a key factor in achieving sustainability.

4.0 REFERENCES

4.1 FM Global
Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
Data Sheet 1-57, Plastic in Construction
Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers
Data Sheet 5-4, Transformers
Data Sheet 5-12, Electric AC Generators
Data Sheet 5-14, Telecommunications
Data Sheet 5-19, Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Data Sheet 5-23, Emergency and Standby Power Systems
Data Sheet 7-4, Paper Machines and Pulp Dryers
Data Sheet 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers
Data Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
Data Sheet 7-64/13-28, Aluminum Industry
Data Sheet 7-78, Industrial Exhaust Systems
Data Sheet 7-93N, Aircraft Hangars
Data Sheet 7-96, Printing Plants
Data Sheet 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
Data Sheet 8-3, Rubber Tire Storage
Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities
Data Sheet 8-21, Roll Paper Storage
The Approval Guide, an online resource of FM Approvals.
Understanding the Hazard (UTH) Lack of Automatic Sprinklers (P0037).
Bill Jr., Robert G., and Hsiang-Cheng Kung, Scott Anderson, and Richard Ferron (FM Global). “A New Test
to Evaluate the Fire Performance of Residential Sprinklers.” Fire Technology (2002): 101–124.
Wieczorek, C., B. Ditch, and R. Bill, Jr. Environmental Impact of Automatic Fire Sprinklers. FM Global
Technical Report, March 2010.
Wieczorek, C. Environmental Impact of Residential Fires Review. FM Global Technical Report, 2021.

4.2 Other
European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN 12845, Fixed Firefighting Systems – Automatic Sprinkler
Systems – Design, Installation and Maintenance.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinklers.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.
National Standard of the People’s Republic of China. GB 50084, Code of Design for Sprinkler Systems.

APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Approval Guide: An online resource of FM Approvals that provides a guide to equipment, materials, and
services that have been FM Approved for property conservation.

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Combustible occupancy: An occupancy that contains sufficient combustible materials to allow horizontal
fire spread throughout a given area in the absence of sprinkler protection; or an occupancy that contains a
sufficient concentration of combustibles to cause significant damage to a building.
Commodity: A combination of material, external packaging (e.g., container), and material handling aids (e.g.,
pallets). The purpose of assigning a commodity classification is to determine the proper level of fire protection.
A commodity classification is dependent on how the commodity burns and how the burning commodity
responds to the application of sprinkler discharge. Refer to Data Sheet 8-1, Commodity Classification, for
further information on specific commodities.
Demand area: The expected area of sprinkler operation, based on the hazard being protected, used for
hydraulic design purposes. In English units it is expressed in ft2; in metric units, m2 (1 ft2 = 0.093 m2).
Dry-pipe sprinkler system: A sprinkler system that is located downstream of a dry-pipe valve. It is filled
with a pressurized gaseous medium (typically air or an inert gas such as nitrogen) for the purpose of
maintaining the dry-pipe valve closed. Upon sprinkler actuation, the pressure within the sprinkler system
begins to drop until the pressure becomes too low to keep the dry-pipe valve closed. At this time the dry-pipe
valve opens (trips) allowing water to fill the sprinkler system and discharge through any sprinklers that have
been actuated. A dry-pipe sprinkler system is typically used in areas where the presence of water within
the sprinkler system is not suitable.
Density: The amount of water applied by sprinklers over a given area in a certain amount of time. In English
units, it is expressed in gpm/ft2; in metric units, in mm/min (1 gpm/ft2 = 40.74 mm/min).
Duration or system duration: Water supply system duration is a defined time period between when a fire
initially activates a sprinkler system and when the fire is extinguished. Fire extinguishment usually is
accomplished by the manual firefighting efforts of public fire service personnel, facility fire service personnel,
or facility emergency response team personnel. Duration takes into consideration the commodity hazard’s
expected fire size in the presence of the system’s specific sprinklers and bases the design, as well as manual
extinguishment by either one or two applied hose streams.
Extended-coverage sprinklers: The physical characteristics of extended-coverage (EC) sprinklers are
similar to those of sprinklers for use with standard spacing. However, the deflector designs are enhanced
to ensure proper uniformity and effectiveness of water distribution for the spacing and design pressures for
which they are FM Approved.
FM Approved: Products and services that meet the requirements for FM Approval. See the Approval Guide
for a list of products and services that are FM Approved.
Hose demand: The water flow required for hoses (common sizes are 2-1/2 in. and 1-1/2 in.). In English
units it is expressed in gpm; in metric units, L/min.
Incidental storage: Solid-pile, palletized, rack, shelf, or bin-box storage that is normal for an occupancy
(e.g., small amounts of packaging, raw materials, or the products being made). This is likely to be at the start
or end of a production line.
Library stack rooms: Rooms that house typical library bookshelves of approximately 8 ft (2.4 m) in height,
containing books stored vertically on end, held in place in close association with each other, with aisles wider
than 30 in. (762 mm).
Low-piled storage: Solid-pile or palletized storage that is in excess of the area limitations for incidental
storage but does not exceed the height limitations. This is likely to be found at the end of multiple
manufacturing lines or in a loading dock area.
Nonstorage automatic sprinkler: A sprinkler that has been categorized by FM Global as acceptable for
protecting nonstorage occupancies and/or any other low to moderate heat-release-rate fires as recommended
in an applicable occupancy-specific data sheet.
Nonstorage occupancy: An occupancy consisting of combustible or noncombustible materials that are not
maintained in a standard storage arrangement. May contain incidental storage.
Quick-response (QR) sprinklers: QR sprinklers are similar to standard-response sprinklers, except they
use a fast-response, heat-actuated element.

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Residential occupancy: A highly compartmented space with low combustible loading. Examples include
one- and two-family dwellings, manufactured homes, dormitories, residence halls, and other dwelling type
areas.
Sprinkler demand: The amount of water flow required for sprinkler protection. In English units it is expressed
in gpm; in metric units, L/min (1 gpm = 3.79 L/min).
Waterflow alarm: A device that is installed on a sprinkler system and arranged to provide an alarm when
one or more sprinklers operate.
Total water demand: The water flow required for both sprinklers and hoses (i.e., total water demand is equal
to sprinkler demand plus hose demand). Hose demand is not always provided by the sprinkler system. In
English units it is expressed in gpm; in metric units, L/min.

APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY

The purpose of this appendix is to capture the changes that were made to this document each time it was
published. Please note that section numbers refer specifically to those in the version published on the date
shown (i.e., the section numbers are not always the same from version to version).
October 2021. Interim revision. Significant changes include the following:
A. Incorporated guidance from Data Sheet 2-5, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers in
Residential Occupancies. Data Sheet 2-5 has been made obsolete.
B. Clarified acceptable storage arrangements for incidental and low-pile storage (Sections 2.3.2, 2.3.3,
3.3.3, 3.3.4, and Appendix A).
C. Added lithium-ion battery protection guidance (Sections 2.3.2.5 and 2.3.3.2) and clarified that battery
manufacturing in Table C-1 includes lithium-ion batteries.
D. Added water mist protection guidance for HC-2 and HC-3 occupancies (Section 2.3.5).
E. Added protection guidance for high-density movable shelving (Section 2.3.7).
F. Clarified when to adjust hazard category for theaters (Table C-1).
G. Changed hazard category and description of car workshops to HC-3 with the description updated to
car manufacturing/assembly (Table C-2).
H. Added protection guidance for desalination plants (Table C-2 and Section 3.3).
I. Added the removal of Table 4 to the changes in Appendix B, April 2019 revision.
J. Renumbered tables and figures to match the section in which they are located.
January 2021. Interim revision. Revised the hazard category for parking garage and car parks to HC-3 from
HC-2 and clarified the application of Note 2 in Table 2.
October 2020. Interim revision.Added guidance on defining incidental storage/use of ignitable liquids in HC-1
occupancies.
April 2019. This document has undergone a complete revision. Significant changes include the following:
A. Changed the title of the data sheet from Fire Protection Water Demand for Nonstorage Sprinklered
Properties to Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies.
B. Incorporated Engineering Bulletin 04-12, New Protection Guidance for Extended Coverage Sprinklers
for Nonstorage Applications.
C. Moved hazard category examples from Table 1 to Appendix C and expanded them.
D. Added hazard category guidance in Appendix C for recycling, waste processing, and energy from waste
facilities (and the treating of incoming waste material).
E. Added a new flowchart (Figure 1) detailing the proper application of Data Sheet 3-26, including where
other data sheets should be used, and how to treat incidental and low-piled storage.
F. Added protection recommendations for the manufacture and assembly of large, contiguous components
that present the hazard of a shielded fire (Section 2.3.1.14).

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G. Changed recommended system durations to 60 minutes for all hazard categories (Section 2.3.1.13).
H. Removed Table 4, Minimum Sprinkler K-Factors for Hazard Categories. The table was replaced with a
reference to existing tables in Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers, to reduce
duplication of information across data sheets.
I. Changed recommendations on work-in-process storage. Added new guidance based on testing of
low-piled storage to Table 3. This guidance is engineered toward the levels of storage common to
nonstorage occupancies. The area limitations for up to Class 3 commodities remain 200 ft2 (20 m2). The
area limitation for plastic-containing commodities has been reduced from 200 ft2 (20 m2) to 64 ft2 (6 m2,
equivalent to four pallet loads).
April 2014. Table 2a, Sprinkler Design Demands for Hazard Categories with Ceiling Heights up to 100 ft
(30 m): The design listed for the K25.2EC (K360EC) sprinkler has been revised to provide the same design
density as listed for the K25.2 (K360) design. Additionally, Table 2a has been revised include both upright
and pendent sprinkler applications.
July 2011. Minor editorail changes and clarifications to Recommendations 2.1.1.1 and 2.1.1.10.1 were made
for this revision.
January 2011. This document has been updated. The following is a list of the changes:
• Realigned atriums, school & university classrooms, gymnasiums, metalworking and fabrication shops with
non-hydraulic operations, and mineral operations to a more suited hazard category of HC-1 based on their
light loading occupancy description.
• Re-evaluated Extended Coverage sprinkler design guidelines based on full scale fire test results.
• Added Extended Coverage Sprinklers K11.2EC (K160EC) and K14.0EC (K200EC) with a temperature
rating of 160°F (70°C) as options for new installations in HC-2 & HC-3 occupancies with ceiling heights
up to 30 ft (9 m).
• Deleted design requirement to supply the hydraulically most remote 9 sprinklers when using EC sprinklers
for HC-1 and HC-2 occupancies.
• Reduced the wet and dry sprinkler design demand areas for HC-3 occupancies with ceilings up to 30 ft
(9 m).
• Reduced the minimum water demand duration to 60 minutes for HC-2 occupancies.
• Removed any and all references to HC-4 categories due to vague occupancy description not fitting any
comparable manufacturing sites.
• Reduced the minimum sprinkler K-Factors for new installations to K8.0 (K115) for HC-2 occupancies with
ceiling heights up to 60 ft (18 m).
• Added protection option for HC-3 occupancies over 60 ft (18m) and up to 100 ft (30 m).
• Added guidelines covering acceptability for using storage sprinklers in mixed storage and Nonstorage
occupancies.
• Added protection guidelines for use of water mist systems.
March 2010. This document has been completely rewritten. The following is a list of major changes:
• Added a table of hazard categories based on occupancy.
• Added a table of sprinkler design demands based on ceiling height and type of sprinkler system for each
hazard category.
• Added design information on extended-coverage sprinklers for light- and ordinary-hazard occupancies.
• Added sprinkler protection design criteria for nonstorage and nonmanufacturing facilities with ceilings
higher than 60 ft (20 m) and up to 100 ft (30 m).
• Added sprinkler protection design criteria for manufacturing facilities with ceilings up to 60 ft (20 m) high.
• Revised loss history.
• Updated Appendix A, Glossary of Terms.

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July 2008. References to FM Global Loss Prevention Data Sheet 7-96, Printing Plants, were added to Table 1.
May 2008. Clarifications were made to the recommendations 2.1.1.1 and 2.1.2.1.2.
January 2008. The following changes were made:
1. Combined Tables 2 through 10 to simplify the recommendations for sprinkler system water demand.
2. Replaced Table 1, which described temperature ratings for sprinklers, with a recommendation to use 160°F
(70°C) and 280°F (140°C) temperature-rated sprinklers for wet and for dry systems respectively.
3. Added sprinkler system water demand information for assembly facilities manufacturing fiberglass boats.
January 2006. Clarification was made to the recommendation 2.1.2.3.1 and Table 11.
January 2005. Protection criteria has been provided for light, moderately and heavily loaded nonstorage
areas with floor to ceiling clearances up to 60 ft (18.3 m). Storage type, storage and building height and
corresponding protection criteria are provided in Table 11.
January 2001. The protection requirements for the spray application of flammable liquids, including catalytic
spraying have been removed from this data sheet and are included in Data Sheet 7-27, Spray Application
of Flammable and Combustible Materials.
The protection requirements for hydraulic equipment using hydraulic fluids have been removed from this
data sheet. The protection requirements are in Data Sheet 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids.
September 2000. This revision of the document was reorganized to provide a consistent format.
October 1992. The following changes were made for this revision:
1. Flammable Liquids
Water demand criteria for flammable liquids in open and closed tanks are not contained in this revision of
Data Sheet 3-26. In the previous revision of this data sheet, the occupancies were titled Flammable Liquids
In Open Tanks and Containers and Flooding Systems and Flammable Liquids in Closed Containers, Except
Drum Storage. Water demand criteria for these occupancies are incorporated with the flammable liquid data
sheets.
2. Woodworking Occupancy
Water demand criteria for the general occupancy, Woodworking, are not in this revision of Data Sheet 3-26.
Data Sheet 7-10, Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities, has been revised (June 1991). Water
demand information is now included in Data Sheet 7-10.
3. Textile Occupancy
Water demand criteria for the textile occupancy are not in this revision of Data Sheet 3-26. Data Sheet 7-1,
Fire Protection for Textile Mills, has been revised. Water demand information is now included in Data Sheet
7-1.
4. Miscellaneous Occupancies
The section titled ″Miscellaneous Occupancies″ is included to provide guidelines for occupancies that are
not found within the specific occupancies.
5. Miscellaneous Nonmanufacturing
The title ″Miscellaneous Nonmanufacturing″ is used in place of ″Light Hazard Occupancy.″ The new title
better defines the various occupancies involved.
6. Office Occupancies
Guidelines in Data Sheet 3-26 for office occupancy are in Table 2, within the section titled Miscellaneous
Nonmanufacturing. Loss data (see Support for Recommendations) and fire test data indicate that a water
supply capable of providing a density of 0.10 gpm/ft2 (4 mm/min) over an area of 1500 ft2 (140 m2) will provide
adequate protection for an office occupancy.
7. Electronic-Electrical Manufacturing and Assembly

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A separate occupancy category for electronic and electrical manufacturing and assembly occupancies has
been added.
8. Plastics Processing
Recent fire tests indicate that ordinary, intermediate or high temperature rated sprinklers over 2500 ft2
(230 m2) (dry system: 3500 ft2 ) will provide adequate protection over this occupancy.
9. Quick Response Automatic Sprinklers (QRAS)
This data sheet includes guidance on the use of QRAS. The recommendations are based on the results of
fire tests comparing QRAS and conventional response automatic sprinklers.
10. Title Change
The title change to include ″Nonstorage″ better describes the occupancies included within this data sheet.
11. International and National Fire Protection Association Standards

APPENDIX C HAZARD CATEGORY EXAMPLES

Table 2.2.2 of this data sheet provides a description of what a typical HC-1, HC-2, and HC-3 occupancy
may include, but this table should not be viewed as an all inclusive list. Judgment is needed when determining
an occupancy’s hazard category.
Tables C-1 and C-2 provide specific examples of different occupancies and their associated hazard category,
as well as any further guidance that may be applicable.
It should be noted that although a location may have a predominant occupancy of HC-1 or HC-2, consideration
should be given to areas that owing to a higher hazard process or presence of higher hazard materials (such
as plastics), may need to be afforded a greater level of protection such as HC-2 or HC-3 respectively. For
example, an HC-2 metal manufacturing facility may have plating operations that would necessitate an HC-3
level of protection in those areas.

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Table C-1. Nonstorage, Non-Manufacturing Occupancies and their Associated Fire Hazard Categories
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Healthcare - Hospitals and Hospital Laboratories HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Facilities - Nursing or Convalescent Homes - 1-3, High-Rise Buildings
- Kitchens - 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
- Care Homes - 1-24, Protection Against Liquid Damage
- Penal Institutions (Jailhouses, etc.) - 5-23, Emergency and Standby Power
- Hospital Utility Plants HC-2 Systems
- Storage Room/Pharmacies with Storage HC-3 - 6-4, Oil or Gas Fired Single-Burner
Boilers
- 6-5, Oil or Gas Fired Multiple Burner
Boilers
- 7-15, Garages
Business - Offices HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Facilities & - Hotels - 1-3, High-Rise Buildings
Apartments - Flats / Apartments - 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
- Residential Buildings - 1-24, Protection Against Liquid Damage
- Utility Rooms HC-2 - 7-15, Garages
Educational - Universities HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Facilities - Schools - 1-3, High-Rise Buildings
- Kindergartens - 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
- Colleges - 1-24, Protection Against Liquid Damage
- Dormitories and Residence Halls - 5-23, Emergency and Standby Power
- Prisons Systems
- Detention centers - 7-15, Garages
- Utility Rooms HC-2
Transport & - Airport Terminal HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Logistic - Bus Stations - 7-11, Conveyors
- Train Stations - 7-15, Garages
- Ferry Port - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable
- Cruise Terminal Containers
- Bicycle Parks - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- Parking Garage HC-3 - 7-93, Aircraft Hangars, Aircraft
- Car Parks Manufacturing and Assembly
- Car-Sized Vehicle Repair Garages and HC-3 Facilities, and Protection of Aircraft
Assembly Operations Where Unfueled Interiors During Assembly
Vehicles are Repaired, Tested or - 8-3, Rubber Tire Storage
Assembled - 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and
- Truck Loading Docks - loading and Plastic Commodities
unloading canopies
- Package Delivery/Distribution Hubs
- Cross docking areas
- Aircraft Hangar,
- Zeppelin Hangar
Energy Service - Gas and Oil Stations/Service Provider HC-3 Data sheets to consider:
Providers - Battery Stations - 3-10, Wind Turbines
- Solar Plant
- Wind Turbines
- Photo Voltaic Farms

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 21

Table C-1. Nonstorage, Non-Manufacturing Occupancies and their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d)
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Leisure Facilities - Museums and Monuments HC-1 - Areas that have high combustible loading
& Public - Restaurants (Seating Areas) (e.g., foam seating, acoustic material on
Assembly - Gyms walls, large amounts of plastic) or that
- Places of Worship have the potential to display products
- Ski Lift Station that have high amounts of plastic and/or
- Zoo / Aquarium have concealed spaces should be
- Auditoriums considered HC-3.
- Aquatic Center (Swimming Pool/ Spa)
- Cinemas
- Convention Centers
- Theme Parks
- Libraries
- Sport Arena HC-2
- Theaters
- Casinos
- Night Clubs
- Exhibition Halls HC-3
- Convention Centers
Mercantile - Department Stores - front of house HC-2 - In general storage at these locations is
Facilities - Shopping Malls retail items on display to less than 6 ft
- Retail and Mercantile Areas (1.8 m) (or as high as can be reached
- Supermarkets without equipment).

- Back of house and bulk storage areas,

wholesale/big-box stores, should be
analyzed in line with Data Sheet 8-9,
Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic
Commodities.
Incoming Waste - Mixed household/business waste or HC-2 - The storage of incoming waste material
Material at recyclables including metal, glass, should not be considered low-piled
Recycling/Waste cellulosic materials and small amounts of storage per Table 2.3.3.1; the sprinkler
Processing/ plastics design should be based on either an
Energy from - Pre-sorted and/or shredded household/ HC-3 HC-2 or an HC-3 occupancy per the
Waste Facilities business waste or recyclables including adjacent description. The fire scenario is
metal, glass, cellulosic materials and also a relatively small fire spreading across
plastic material. the surface of the waste pile rather than
involving the entire pile depth at one
time. Therefore, basing protection on the
height and/or size of the waste pile would
be inappropriate.
- For baled waste paper storage see Data
Sheet 8-22.
- For other baled commodities like plastics,
see Data Sheet 8-9.
- For energy from waste facilities, refer to
Data Sheet 6-13.

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
Page 22 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

Table C-1. Nonstorage, Non-Manufacturing Occupancies and their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d)
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Telecommunication, - Laboratories HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Film Studios, and - Control Rooms for monitoring - 1-56, Cleanrooms
Research Centers operations or network operations - 1-57, Plastics in Construction
center, broad cast facilities, - 5-14, Telecommunications
telecommunication - 5-18, Protection of Electrical Equipment
- IT Facilities HC-2 - 5-19, Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
- I/O Distribution Room - 5-23, Emergency and Standby Power
- Control Rooms Systems
- Electrical Rooms - 5-32, Data Centers and Relating
- Film and TV Studios HC-3 Facilities

Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Mechanical - Sheet Metal Product Factories HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
Engineering or - Metal-Working - 7-6 Heated Plastic and Plastic Lined
Assembly Plants - Electric and Electronics Equipment Tanks
Factories - 7-21, Rolling Mills
- White Goods Factories (Washing - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
Machine, Dishwashing Machine, Portable Containers
Refrigerator, Oven and Similar) - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- Circuit Board Manufacturing - 7-37, Cutting Fluids
- Mobile Phone Production - 7-41, Oil Quenching and Molten Salt
- Electrical and Electronic Testing Areas Baths
- Aluminum Manufacturing HC-3 - 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
- Injection-Molding Machines (Plastics) Systems
for PP/PE/PS or Similar - 7-64, Aluminum Industry
- Electric and Electronics Equipment - 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
Factories with Large Amounts of Plastic Combustible Dust Explosions and
Boxes Fire
- Manufacturing/Assembly of Wind - 7-93, Aircraft Hangers, Aircraft
Turbines Manufacturing and Assembly
- Manufacturing/Assembly of Aircraft Facilities, and Protection of
- Manufacturing/Assembly of Boats, Aircraft Interiors During Assembly
Highway Trailers, Trucks, Boxcars, - 7-97, Metal Cleaning
Mobile Homes, or Similar - 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
- Manufacturing/Assembly of cars - 7-104, Metal Treatment Process
- Mixed Manufacturing Buildings with No - 7-108, Silane
Dominate Occupancy
- All Battery Manufacturing (including
lithium-ion) with and without plastic
- Plating/etching/Anodizing with plastic
tanks
Textiles and - Leather Goods Factories HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
Clothing - Carpet Factories (Excluding Rubber - 7-1, Fire Protection for Textile Mills
and Foam Plastics) - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
- Cloth and Clothing Factories Fiber- Portable Containers
Board Factories, Footwear Factories - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
(Excluding Plastics and Rubber) - 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
- Knitting Factories, Linen Factories Systems
- Mattress Factories (Excluding Foam - 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
Plastics) Combustible Dust Explosions and
- Sewing Factories, Weaving Mills Fire
- Woolen and Worsted Mills - 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
- Rope Factories - 8-7, Baled Fiber Storage
- Washing, Bleaching, Dyeing, Printing HC-3 - 8-23, Rolled Nonwoven Fabric Storage
and Fabric Chemical Treatment
- Mattress Factories (Including Foam
Plastics)

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 23

Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d)
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Food and - Abattoirs, Meat Factories HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
Beverages - Rendering Plants - 1-57 Plastics in Construction
- Bakeries - 7-2, Waste Solvent Recovery
- Biscuit Factories - 7-13, Mechanical Refrigeration
- Breweries - 7-20, Oil Cookers
- Chocolate Factories - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
- Confectionery Portable Containers
- Dairies Factories - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- Animal Feed Factories - 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
- Slaughter Houses Systems
- Seafood - 7-74, Distilleries
- Butchery - 7-75, Grain Storage and Milling
- Corn Mills - 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
- Dehydrated Vegetable and Soup Combustible Dust Explosions and
Factories Fire
- Sugar Factories - 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
- Alcohol Distilleries - 8-29, Refrigerated Storage
- Tobacco Processing
- Beverage Bottling Plants
- Snack Food
- Blow Molding (Plastic and/or PET) HC-3
- Plastic Packaging
- Distilleries; Storage Rooms
Paper - Paper Factories (Pulp and Paper HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
Making) - Washing, Bleaching and - 6-21, Chemical Recovery Boilers
Chemical Treatment - 7-2, Waste Solvent Recovery
- Paper Making Machine Area - 7-4, Paper Machines and Pulp Dryers
- Book-Binding Factories - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
- Cardboard/Corrugate Factories Portable Containers
- Coating and Printing HC-3 - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- 7-58, Chlorine Dioxide
- 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
Systems
- 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
Combustible Dust Explosions and
Fire
- 7-96, Printing Plants
- 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
- 7-103, Turpentine Recovery in Pulp and
Paper Mills
- 8-21, Roll Paper Storage
- 8-22, Storage of Baled Waste Paper
- 8-27, Storage of Wood Chips
- 8-28, Pulpwood and Outdoor Log
Storage
Timber and Wood - Woodworking Factories (Sawmills, HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
Planer Mills, Plywood, Particle Board) - 7-10, Wood Processing and
- Furniture Factories Woodworking Facilities
- Furniture Showrooms - 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
- Upholstery Factories Systems
- Wood Wool Manufacture - 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
- Prefab-Home Manufacturing (excluding Combustible Dust Explosions and
plastic insulation) Fire
- Modular Building Subassemblies HC-3 - 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids

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3-26 Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies
Page 24 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets

Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d)
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Metals, Glass, and - Glass Factories- Mineral Processing HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Ceramics such as: Glass, Cement, Ore Treating, - 7-25, Molten Steel Production
Gypsum Processing, etc. (without - 7-26, Glass Plants
Ignitable Liquids) - 7-33, High Temperature Molten
- Cement Factories Materials
- Brick and Clay Factories - 7-41, Oil Quenching and Molten Salt
- Molten Metal Products Baths
- 7-104, Metal Treatment Process
Rubber and Plastic - Floor Cloth and Linoleum Manufacture HC-2 Data sheets to consider:
- Rubber Goods Factories - 7-24, Blowing Agents
- Synthetic Fiber Factories HC-3 - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
- Carpet Factories Including Unexpanded Portable Containers
Plastics - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- Footwear Factories, Including Plastics - 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
and Rubber Soles Systems
- Cable Factories for PP/PE/PS or - 7-76, Prevention and Mitigation of
Similar Combustible Dust Explosions and
- Plastics Factories and Plastic Goods Fire
- Printing Works (Plastic and Rubber) - 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids
- Rubber Tire Manufacturing - 7-99, Heat Transfer Fluid Systems
- Coating Process (Electrostatic, Thermal - 8-30, Storage of Carpets
or Bath)
- Production of Unexpanded Plastic or
Rubber Products
- Injection Molding (Plastics) for
PP/PE/PS or
- Plastics Grinding
- Production of Expanded Plastic or
Rubber Products
- Extrusion Involving Flammable Blowing
Agents
- Manufacturing and Assembly of Boats,
Highway Trailers and Trucks, Boxcars,
Mobile Homes, or Similar Metal
Vehicles with Combustible Interiors with
the Potential for a Shielded Fire
Mining & Carbon - Carbon Kilns HC-3 Data sheets to consider:
Manufacturing - Carbon and Coke Storage - 7-12, Mining and Ore Processing
- Carbon Furnaces, Crushing and Facilities
Extruding

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Fire Protection for Nonstorage Occupancies 3-26
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 25

Table C-2. Manufacturing Occupancies and Their Associated Fire Hazard Categories (cont’d)
Hazard
Occupancy Description Category Considerations
Chemicals and Laboratories HC-1 Data sheets to consider:
Pharmaceuticals - Chemical Factories HC-2 - 6-21, Chemical Recovery Boilers
- Photographic Film - 7-2, Waste Solvent Recovery
- Dye Works - 7-14, Fire Protection for Chemical
- Soap Factories Plants
- Match Manufacturing - 7-22, Hydrazine and Its Derivatives
- Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing - 7-23, Data on General Class of
- Health and Beauty Aids Chemicals
- Cosmetics and Perfumes - 7-28, Energetic Materials
- Biotechnology - 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in
- Medical Care/Infusion Portable Containers
- Fire-Lighter Manufacture HC-3 - 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
- Cigarette Lighter - 7-34, Electrolytic Chlorine Process
- Resin, Lamp Black and Turpentine - 7-36, Pharmaceutical Operations
- Rubber or Substitute Manufacture - 7-38, Loss Prevention in Ethanol Fuel
Production Facilities
- 7-46, Chemical Reactors and Reactions
- 7-73, Dust Collectors and Collection
Systems
- 1-56, Cleanrooms
Desalination Plants - Reverse Osmosis Trains HC-3 Data Sheets to consider:
- 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces
- 1-57, Plastic in Construction
- 5-4, Transformers
- 5-19, Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
- 7-78, Industrial Exhaust Systems
- 7-98, Hydraulic Fluids

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