Our design standards calls out for all fire alarm cable to be run in conduit
or raceways. We are also going through the value engineering stage and have
so far been able to maintain adherence to our design standard. We also get
support from facilities on the fight. As an alternative we are looking at
going with MC (metal clad)cable.

-----Original Message-----
From: M. Murray [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, February 16, 2000 6:23 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Fire Alarm Raceway


I would appreciate information about use of metallic raceway/conduit for
fire alarm systems in University buildings.  A value engineering report
for a major library renovation proposes plenum rated cable in lieu of
raceway to save $70K in construction cost.  Our standard has been to use
raceway for all FA system...regardless of minimum code requirements.

My specific question...what is the practice at your University, and if
your standards exceed the Fire Alarm Code and/or NEC, what is the
justification?

Mark D. Murray, PE                      University of Washington
Manager                                 Environmental Health & Safety
[log in to unmask]                Box 354400
206-543-0465                            Seattle, WA 98195-4400
                                        http://www.ehs.washington.edu