If a compartment has an unprotected pocket of 105 ft3 volume and 12 in depth, would it be exempt?

If a compartment has an unprotected pocket of 105 ft3 volume and 12 in depth, would it be exempt?

• A. Yes
• B. Only if depth is reduced
• C. Not enough information
• D. No

Answer: (D)

In NFPA 13R, an unprotected pocket can be exempt only if it stays within small size limits—specifically, a volume not greater than 100 ft³ and a depth not exceeding 12 inches. Here the pocket is 105 ft³, which already exceeds the volume limit, even though the depth is within the 12-inch allowance. Because the volume surpasses the exemption threshold, the pocket does not qualify for exemption, so sprinkler protection would be required for that compartment.

In NFPA 13R, an unprotected pocket can be exempt only if it stays within small size limits—specifically, a volume not greater than 100 ft³ and a depth not exceeding 12 inches. Here the pocket is 105 ft³, which already exceeds the volume limit, even though the depth is within the 12-inch allowance. Because the volume surpasses the exemption threshold, the pocket does not qualify for exemption, so sprinkler protection would be required for that compartment.