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Earthquake Bracing

Section 9.3 of the 2007 edition of NFPA 13 says that sprinkler systems shall be protected to prevent pipe breakage where subject to earthquakes. NFPA 13 does not require earthquake bracing, except where subject to earthquakes. It then explains how to do the earthquake bracing, if it is required. Seismic charts of Maine indicate minimal risk due to impact from earthquakes, and history tells us that earthquakes are an extremely rare occurrence in Maine, and then of only minor size. I know of no fire loss to life or property in Maine due to the failure of a fire sprinkler system because of an earthquake.

For these reasons, our office does not require earthquake bracing on any fire sprinkler jobs. If the local building code, fire department, insurance company or other authority calls for earthquake bracing, then we expect for that information to be supplied for the sprinkler plan review, and those jobs would be reviewed for earthquake bracing compliance before the permit would be issued from the State.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact us if there are any questions.

[Previously Updated 4-11-08. Last Updated 8-18-09. Change was to edit paragraph 2 above to add the words, "or other authority".]