For residential occupancies, an NFPA 13R sprinkler system is permitted, and it offers numerous economic advantages for the building owner. Most notably, with a 13R system, attics and concealed spaces do not have to be protected with sprinklers.
But, be careful! Although the building codes permit a 13R system for residential occupancies, it is not permitted when the Architect uses a 13 system for trade-offs with other code requirements.
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Building codes typically do not prohibit floor registers in commercial buildings, however, the fire codes can restrict their usage. For example, NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, paragraph 9.2.1 states that “Air-conditioning, heating, ventilating ductwork, and related equipment shall be in accordance with NFPA 90A.” NFPA 90A: Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, paragraphs 4.3.7.3.1 and 4.3.8.3.1 state that “Air inlets/outlets shall be located at least 3 inches above the floor, unless provisions have been made to prevent dirt and dust accumulations from entering the system.”