These requirements cover the construction and operation of fixed pre-engineered dry chemical fire extinguishing system units, and fixed automatic extinguisher units intended to be used in accordance with the Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems, NFPA 17-1994.

Automatic extinguisher units do not have a manual means of operation, and are intended to be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Automatic extinguisher units are not intended for use as a substitute for pre-engineered dry chemical extinguishing system units, or for protection of fire risks larger than those specified in the manufacturer’s instructions for a single unit by using multiple units.

A product that contains features, characteristics, components, materials, or systems new or different from those covered by the requirements in this standard, and that involves a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons shall be evaluated using the appropriate additional component and end-product requirements to determine that the level of safety as originally anticipated by the intent of this standard is maintained. A product whose features, characteristics, components, materials, or systems conflict with specific requirements or provisions of this standard shall not be judged to comply with this standard. Where appropriate, revision of requirements shall be proposed and adopted in conformance with the methods employed for development, revision, and implementation of this standard.