The Automist Smartscan System is an innovative technology which, in many cases, extends beyond the specific prescriptions of current codes. The compliant use of Automist Smartscan can be justified today using provisions for alternative means and methods or equivalencies from prevalent model codes.
International Residential Code (§R104.11):
"Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.
The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. The building official shall have the authority to approve an alternative material, design or method of construction upon application of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent. The building official shall first find that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety. Compliance with the specific performance-based provisions of the International Codes shall be an alternative to the specific requirements of this code.”
International Building Code (§104.11)/International Fire Code (§104.9):
"Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.
The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. The building official shall have the authority to approve an alternative material, design or method of construction upon application of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent. The building official shall first find that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety. Compliance with the specific performance-based provisions of the International Codes shall be an alternative to the specific requirements of this code.”
NFPA 1 (Fire Code) §1.4.1:
“Equivalencies. Nothing in this Code is intended to prevent the use of systems, methods or devices of equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durability, and safety to those prescribed by this Code, provided technical documentation is submitted to the AHJ to demonstrate equivalency and the system, method, or device is approved for the intended purpose.”
NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) §1.4:
“Equivalency. Nothing in this Code is intended to prevent the use of systems, methods, or devices of equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durability, and safety over those prescribed by this code.”
For jurisdictions utilizing different versions of the above-referenced standards, please get in touch with us with the title and edition of the model code to obtain an analysis of applicable codes.
Automist Smartscan's Listing Information:
Automist Smartscan’s testing process took place in internationally recognized labs. Extensive fire and technical testing was carried out at Exova Warrington UKAS Laboratory in the UK. The system was tested in accordance with, and met the performance criteria of BS 8458:2015 – Fixed Fire Protection Systems – Residential and Domestic Watermist Systems - Code of Practice for Design and Installation (BSi Verification Certificate – VC 712581). These tests include open rooms and ventilated scenarios.
To further supplement approval and make it easier for US AHJs to interpret Plumis’ existing data, we have begun the process of testing and listing the product through Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Much of the testing scheduled is a repetition of tests carried out in the UK which has enabled Automist technology to have been used in over 10000 homes in the UK.
