On September 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM EST, Mark Fessenden will present Fire Protection Systems for Retail Storage Occupancies.
Program Description:
Retail storage occupancies present a unique set of fire protection challenges due to the diverse commodity classifications, storage configurations, and fluctuating occupancy hazards. This technical session will explore the applicable fire protection strategies for both low-piled and high-piled storage environments commonly found in retail settings. Participants will gain an understanding of how occupancy classification affects sprinkler system design, including required densities, sprinkler spacing, and the selection of sprinkler types. The session also compares the performance of various sprinkler technologies using fire test data, particularly for Group A plastic commodities stored in double-row racks. The program reviews hydraulic design parameters per NFPA 13, highlights key system design considerations for control and suppression mode systems, and examines the implications of dry pipe and preaction systems. Emphasis is placed on code compliance, performance-based testing, and practical application of fire protection measures for modern retail storage environments. Attendees will also be introduced to strategies for assessing and managing fire risk in retail settings, ensuring life safety and property protection through optimized system design.
Learning Objectives:
- Classify retail storage occupancies and interpret relevant code definitions.
- Apply NFPA 13 criteria for protecting Group A plastics and mixed commodity storage.
- Understand testing outcomes and how system performance varies by design.
- Develop a fire risk management approach tailored to retail storage applications.
Biography
Mark Fessenden is a globally recognized expert in active fire protection systems, including water-based systems (automatic sprinkler, water spray fixed systems, and watermist) and special hazard systems (clean agent, CO2, wet chemical, dry chemical, and foam). For the last three decades Mark has been involved with the manufacturing of active fire protection systems. His focus has been on the development of new technologies, codes & standards, sales and business development, technical services, training, and general management.
Mark was the 2024 recipient of the NFSA Russell P. Fleming Technical Service Award, the 2021 recipient of the SFPE Harold E. Nelson Service Award and the 2017 recipient of the NFPA Industrial Fire Protection Section Fire Prevention Award. Marks has several patents in technologies related to water-based fire protection systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from New England Institute of Technology and an MBA from Corban University.
Mark serves as the Managing Director of the International Fire Suppression Alliance, an organization dedicated to the global promotion of the use of effective water-based fire protection systems.