
NFPA 101 – 2021 edition – Chapter 8.3.4.7 Membrane Penetrations and 8.5.6. NFPA 25 – 2020 edition – Chapter 5.2.1.1 Escutcheons NFPA 13 – 2022 edition – Chapter 7.2.6 Escutcheons and Cover Plates See blog post Fire Sprinkler Cover Plates. Now that you know what escutcheons are and why you need them, it’s also important to know that an escutcheon is NOT a fire sprinkler cover plate.

The standard establishes the requirements for all system components depending on their material and type.
NFPA 13 BAFFLE PROFESSIONAL
In all cases in which your fire sprinkler system needs work, a licensed professional service provider is required to prevent accidental activation, false alarm and to ensure the system is functional and in service when the work is complete. The core content of NFPA 13 is a description of all components used in automatic sprinkler systems, and a description of their correct installation procedure and mechanical support requirements. Retro-fit escutcheons are available in all three common types of escutcheons recessed, flat and adjustable. The original escutcheon can be removed by carefully cutting one side with metal shears and separating it. x 20 in.) opening shall be provided for personnel entry. On horizontal ducts, at least one 508 mm x 508 mm (20 in.
NFPA 13 BAFFLE INSTALL
These escutcheons are “split”, having two detachable halves that allow for separation to install around the sprinkler head and fasten in place. Openings shall be provided at the sides or at the top of the duct, whichever is more accessible, and at a change of direction. One way to solve this problem economically is to use retro-fit escutcheons. Retro-fit Escutcheons: Recessed, Flat and Adjustable In order to replace the same model escutcheon, since the escutcheon opening is smaller than the sprinkler head itself, the system needs to be called out of service, drained, and the head removed resulting in increased labor costs. Although, they are available in multiple factory finishes. That’s right, just like sprinkler heads, escutcheons may not be painted. Escutcheons need to be replaced if they become damaged (bent or separated), rusted, discolored, or painted. Manufacturer escutcheons are installed with the installation of the sprinkler heads themselves. Extensions are available for greater than 2” of space.

A standard cup allows for up to 2” of adjustment to properly fit around the sprinkler head, while the skirt covers the gap. Adjustable escutcheons have two pieces, a cup and a skirt. These are commonly used when the distance between the branch line (main sprinkler pipe for that area) and the ceiling or wall vary. NFPA 13 (2012) requirements for clearance around sprinkler pipes as they pass through a fire-rated assembly where subject to earthquakes 9. Glass Smoke Baffles are noncombustible curtains that hang from the ceiling and work as smoke barriers between slab openings, level changes, or divisions. This type of escutcheon properly covers the gap for a flush sprinkler head, one that is neither recessed or extended from the ceiling or wall. The two piece escutcheon provides a finished appearance with the outer ring covering the gap while the inner ring sits at a specific depth encircling the recessed sprinkler head. Escutcheons: Recessed, Flat and Adjustable
