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Can Automist be used to meet the International Building Code (IBC) as an alternative to NFPA 13D Sprinklers?

The International Fire Code (IFC) and International Building Code (IBC) are companion codes, both developed by the International Code Council (ICC). If an AHJ requires IBC compliance, you can reference IFC 904.11 as the pathway to approval since it explicitly allows water mist systems that meet NFPA 750:

904.11 Automatic water mist systems 
Automatic water mist systems shall be permitted in applications that are consistent with the applicable listing or approvals and shall comply with Sections 904.11.1 through 904.11.3.

904.11.1 General 
Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 750 and the manufacturer’s instructions.

904.11.2 Actuation 
Automatic water mist systems shall be automatically actuated.


The 2023 edition of NFPA 750 now includes electronically operated water mist nozzles as a recognized category. Automist is UL Listed under UL 2167A, a new standard developed specifically for one- and two-family dwellings, ensuring compliance with performance-based fire suppression regulations.

Unlike NFPA 13D, which prescribes specific design criteria, NFPA 750 takes a performance-based approach and requires that systems be installed according to the manufacturer’s Listing and installation manual.

NFPA 750 (Clause 8.1.1) states: 
"Listed materials and devices shall be installed in accordance with their listing."


This means Automist must be installed according to its UL Listing and Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance (DIOM) manual, rather than following NFPA 13D’s sprinkler-specific design.
 

For approval, AHJs can reference:

Learn more - Is Automist UL Listed for Single-Family or Multi-Family Dwellings?   


Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a comprehensive guide to all of the aspects of the building/fire code but rather a useful source of background information. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the contents of this post are correct at the time of publication, it should never be used as any form of substitution for the full NFPA® codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides. It should be noted that there may be specific additional requirements dependent upon the Authority Having Jurisidiction (AHJ).