Mike Dolt Enterprises Logo Mike Dolt Enterprises

Topic: Branch conduits passing thru Fire Riser Room

User: tlholloway, Location: Texas

Asked on: Monday, June 9, 2025 at 1:55 pm EDT
Answered on: Monday, June 9, 2025 at 2:01 pm EDT

Question: I am building a new locker room / dugout for a local school. The architect has placed the electrical equipment outside, panels, xfmrs, etc. The riser room is behind the wall where the architect has put the panels. The only pathway for branch circuiting is thru the riser room. I can not seem to find anything that says i can not install conduits passing thru the riser room, its just that electricians normally stay away from that. My question is--Can i pass the branch conduits thru the riser room? provided i stay clear of sprinkler pipe and such??Thanks

You're right, there's likely no explicit code violation simply for running properly installed and supported conduits through a riser room, as long as you comply with other applicable code requirements. However, there are several crucial considerations to ensure your design is compliant, safe, and practical. It also may depend if this is a dedicated fire riser room.Here's a breakdown

Key Considerations & Code References:

1. Dedicated Equipment Space (NEC 110.26)

While not explicitly about passing through a room, if the riser room is primarily dedicated to containing the fire protection equipment you need to be especially careful.

Width

Ensure you're not encroaching on the required working clearances around the fire protection equipment. NEC 110.26 dictates these clearances based on voltage to ground and existing conditions.


Depth

Similarly, consider the working depth in front of the fire protection equipment. Passing conduit behind the equipment might create a violation if it reduces the usable working depth.

Height

Make sure your conduit routing doesn't impede vertical access to the fire protection equipment or reduce headroom below minimums.2.

Mechanical Protection (NEC 300.4)

Conduits must be adequately protected from physical damage. This is
especially true in a potentially congested space like a riser room. Consider using RMC (Rigid Metal Conduit) or IMC (Intermediate Metal Conduit) for runs within the room. Securely support conduits to prevent sagging or displacement.3.

Support (NEC 314.23)

Ensure all conduit runs are properly supported according to NEC requirements. Don't rely on the sprinkler pipes or other equipment for support. Use appropriate hangers, straps, and fasteners.4.

Firestopping (NEC 300.21 & IBC)

This is
critical. Any penetration through a fire-rated wall, floor, or ceiling must be properly firestopped with a listed firestopping material appropriate for the type of penetration and the fire-resistance rating of the assembly. This includes the wall between the riser room and the locker room/dugout. A missed or poorly executed firestop is a serious code violation and life safety hazard.5.

Accessibility

While you may be
passing through, consider future maintenance. Are your conduits easily accessible for inspection, repair, or modification? Don't bury them behind equipment or create a situation where accessing them is difficult.6.

Coordination with Other Trades

This is paramount. Talk to the fire protection contractor
before you start running conduit. They can advise on the optimal routing to avoid conflicts with their piping, valves, and other equipment. The architect should also be involved to ensure the overall design is coordinated.7.

Local Amendments

Your local jurisdiction may have amendments to the NEC or IBC that are more restrictive. Always check with your local building department.8.

Aesthetics & Professionalism

While not a code issue, a well-organized and neatly installed conduit run will reflect better on your workmanship and reduce the likelihood of future problems.9.

Dedicated Fire Riser Room?

Check your local codes or with the fire department regarding what a dedicated fire riser room can have in it and how it is treated.

Why Electricians Typically Avoid This



Congestion

Riser rooms are often crowded with pipes, valves, and other equipment, making it difficult to run conduit.

Coordination Challenges

As mentioned above, coordinating with other trades can be complex.


Potential for Damage

The risk of damage to electrical conduits from other trades is higher in a congested space.

Accessibility Issues

Future maintenance can be difficult.


Liability

Any issues with the fire protection system could potentially be attributed to the electrical installation, even if it's not directly responsible.

Recommendations



Thoroughly Review Drawings

Carefully examine the architectural, mechanical, and fire protection drawings to identify potential conflicts.


Coordinate with the Architect and Fire Protection Contractor

Meet with them to discuss your proposed conduit routing and address any concerns. Get their approval in writing if possible.

Consider Alternative Routing

Is there
any other way to route the conduits, even if it's slightly longer or more expensive? A different route might be easier to install, maintain, and less likely to cause problems down the road. Perhaps going around the riser room, or utilizing the roof structure, or an underground route is feasible.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of your conduit routing, firestopping, and coordination efforts. This documentation can be invaluable if questions arise later.

Use a Licensed Professional Engineer

If any of the above is unclear, or if the situation is complex, consult with a licensed professional engineer (PE) for guidance.

In summary, while running conduit through a riser room is
likely* not a code violation in itself, it requires careful planning, coordination, and execution to ensure compliance, safety, and practicality. The devil is in the details. Prioritize proper firestopping, mechanical protection, and coordination with other trades.
Flag for review

Previous Question View on the official Mike Holt Forum Next Question