Maya Ellison
Sprinkler heads are sometimes covered to prevent paint or chemical overspray in spray areas or paint booths. While older NFPA guidelines allowed for the use of plastic bags to cover sprinkler heads, this has since been clarified to exclude plastic due to safety concerns. Plastic bags can melt under high temperatures and impair the operation of the sprinkler. Instead, cellophane or thin paper bags are the only approved coverings for sprinkler heads.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials used for covering sprinkler heads | Plastic, Cellophane, Paper, Aluminium foil, Cling wrap |
| Approved materials for covering sprinkler heads | Cellophane, Paper |
| Maximum thickness for cellophane | 0.003 inches or 0.076mm |
| Organisations with guidelines for covering sprinkler heads | NFPA, OSHA |
| Reasons for covering sprinkler heads | To protect from paint or overspray |
| Risks of using plastic bags | Melting, Blocking sprinkler, Violating guidelines |
| Benefits of using cellophane | Biodegradable, No adverse effects on sprinkler function |
| Drawbacks of using cellophane | Cost, Frequent replacement, Chemical buildup |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bags can melt and impair sprinklers
Plastic bags can pose a safety risk when used to cover sprinklers. While plastic bags can be used to protect items from heat sources, such as in the case of sous vide cooking, the water inside the bag acts as a barrier, preventing the plastic from reaching its melting point. However, in the case of sprinklers, the bags are often empty, and the water from the sprinkler itself may not be enough to prevent the bag from melting.
The primary concern with using plastic bags to cover sprinklers is the potential for the bags to melt and impair the function of the sprinklers during a fire. The heat from a fire can cause plastic bags to shrink and melt, even before the sprinkler is activated. Once the sprinkler is activated, the water spray may be disrupted or completely blocked by the melted plastic, rendering the sprinkler ineffective or non-functional. This can have serious consequences in the event of a fire, as the impaired sprinkler may not be able to extinguish the flames or provide adequate protection.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has strict guidelines regarding the use of plastic bags to cover sprinklers. While older editions of the NFPA guidelines allowed for the use of plastic bags with a thickness of no more than 0.003 inches (0.076 mm), the current regulations specify that only cellophane or thin paper bags are approved as coverings. Cellophane is made from plant-based materials and is biodegradable, making it a safer alternative to plastic. It is important to note that regular inspection and replacement of these bags are still necessary to avoid the buildup of residue that could hinder sprinkler function.
To comply with NFPA standards and ensure the effectiveness of sprinklers in the event of a fire, it is recommended to use approved coverings such as cellophane or thin paper bags. These materials have been tested and proven to have no adverse effects on the function of fire sprinklers. Additionally, it is crucial to regularly inspect and replace the bags to prevent any buildup that could impact the performance of the sprinklers. By following these guidelines, building managers can help ensure the safety of occupants and protect against fire hazards.
While plastic bags may seem like a convenient option for covering sprinklers, the potential risks associated with their use are significant. The melting of plastic bags during a fire can compromise the functionality of sprinklers when they are needed most. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to NFPA guidelines and utilize approved coverings to maintain the integrity of fire protection systems and ensure the safety of individuals and property.
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Cellophane bags are approved for use
The use of cellophane bags to cover sprinkler heads is a highly debated topic. While older editions of the NFPA guidelines allowed the use of "'plastic'" bags, the term "plastic" was too generic and led to confusion and unsafe interpretations.
NFPA guidelines now specifically state "cellophane", which has different burn/melt characteristics than a "poly" bag. Cellophane is constructed from plant-based material (organic cellulose, or plant fibres) and is biodegradable. When tested by the NFPA, lightweight cellophane bags caused no adverse effects on the function of fire sprinklers.
However, it is important to note that cellophane bags must be of appropriate thickness. Cellophane bags with a thickness of 0.08mm (0.003 inches) or less are approved for use. Bags thicker than this may hinder the function of the sprinkler.
To ensure compliance with safety regulations, it is recommended to contact cellophane manufacturers to obtain bags with the proper thickness. Regular inspection and replacement of the bags are also necessary to prevent the buildup of residue, which can impair the sprinkler's function.
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Paper bags are an alternative option
Plastic bags are not acceptable coverings for sprinkler heads. The NFPA's older guidelines, which allowed for plastic bags, were too broad and led to unsafe interpretations, such as the use of plastic sandwich bags as covers. The updated NFPA guidelines now specifically outline acceptable materials for fire sprinkler coverings.
Plastic bags are dangerous because, during a fire, the heat can cause the bag to shrink and melt, disrupting or completely blocking the water spray from the sprinkler. This can make the sprinkler less effective or completely non-functional.
However, it is important to note that paper bags may require more tape to secure them, which can cover a significant portion of the sprinkler head. Additionally, regular inspections and replacements of the paper bags are necessary to prevent the buildup of residue that could hinder sprinkler function.
Other options for covering sprinkler heads include cellophane, aluminum foil, and cling wrap. Cellophane is a plant-based, biodegradable material that does not impair the function of fire sprinklers. However, it may be difficult to find cellophane bags with the appropriate thickness of 0.003 inches (0.08 mm) or less. Aluminum foil and cling wrap can also be used, but these options may not meet NFPA standards and could delay the response of the sprinkler.
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Plastic bags are hard to secure
Plastic bags are not acceptable coverings for sprinkler heads. While older editions of the NFPA guidelines allowed for the use of plastic bags to cover sprinkler heads in spray areas and paint booths, the language used was too generic and led to confusion. People interpreted this to mean that any plastic bag, such as grocery store sandwich bags, could be used as a protective covering.
The problem with plastic bags is that they are made of polymer-based materials that can shrink and melt in high heat, such as during a fire. This could cause the water spray from the sprinkler to be disrupted or blocked completely, rendering the sprinkler ineffective or non-functional.
To avoid this, it is recommended to use cellophane or thin paper bags as coverings for sprinkler heads. Cellophane is made from plant-based materials and is biodegradable, so it will not melt and cause blockages like plastic bags can. However, it is important to note that cellophane bags must be of appropriate thickness (no more than 0.003 inches or 0.076 mm thick) to be effective.
If you are unable to find cellophane bags of the appropriate thickness, thin paper bags can be used as an alternative. While there is no specified thickness for paper bags, it is recommended to use the thinnest bags available to comply with the code.
It is also worth noting that, regardless of the type of covering used, regular inspections and replacements of the bags are necessary to prevent the buildup of residue that could hinder sprinkler function.
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Plastic bags can cause paint vapour build-up
Plastic bags should not be used as protective coverings for sprinkler heads. While older editions of the NFPA guidelines allowed for the use of plastic bags with a thickness of no more than 0.003 inches (0.076 mm), this rule has been updated due to safety concerns. Plastic bags can melt under high temperatures, such as during a fire, and impair the operation of the sprinkler by blocking the water spray.
One of the primary concerns with using plastic bags to cover sprinkler heads is the potential for paint vapour build-up. Paint vapours can escape from the plastic bags, leading to a build-up of paint residue on the sprinkler heads. This residue can hinder the proper functioning of the sprinklers, as it can affect their temperature characteristics and prevent them from operating at the desired temperature. Therefore, it is crucial to use approved materials, such as cellophane or thin paper bags, to avoid any impairment of the sprinkler system's effectiveness.
The use of plastic bags to cover sprinkler heads can also pose a fire hazard. Paint and its associated vapours can be highly flammable, and the heat from a fire can cause the plastic bags to melt or shrink. This can result in the blockage or disruption of the water spray from the sprinkler, reducing its effectiveness in combating the fire. Additionally, paint thinner, which is commonly used in painting processes, can dissolve some plastics and is also flammable, further increasing the fire risk.
To ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain the functionality of sprinkler systems, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by the NFPA. Regular inspections and maintenance of sprinkler systems are crucial, including the frequent replacement of protective coverings to prevent excessive and harmful residue build-up. While cellophane and thin paper bags are approved materials for covering sprinkler heads, property managers should consult with experts to determine the best solutions for their unique building structures and settings.
In summary, plastic bags should be avoided when covering sprinkler heads due to the potential for paint vapour build-up and the associated safety hazards. Approved materials, such as cellophane or thin paper, should be used instead to ensure the proper functioning of sprinkler systems and to mitigate the risk of fire and other hazards. Regular maintenance and inspections are vital to maintaining the effectiveness of fire protection systems in any building.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic bags are not recommended for use on sprinkler heads. The heat from a fire can cause the plastic to melt, potentially blocking the sprinkler and hindering its function.
Cellophane or thin paper bags are approved coverings for sprinkler heads. The cellophane must be no thicker than 0.003 inches (0.076mm).
Sprinkler heads are covered to protect them from paint or chemical overspray, which can impair their function.
