Which National Fire Protection Association Standard governs the installation of wet chemical kitchen extinguishing systems?

• A. NFPA 17
• B. NFPA 17 A
• C. NFPA 13
• D. NFPA 10

Answer: (B)

Wet chemical kitchen extinguishing systems are covered by NFPA 17A, which provides the requirements for their design, installation, testing, and maintenance. These systems use a wet chemical agent (potassium acetate) that saponifies fats, creating a soapy layer that cools and smothers cooking-oil fires. The standards address system layout for commercial kitchens—covering hoods, ducts, and appliances, as well as the components, discharge sizing, detection, actuation, and periodic inspection needed to keep the system effective. This specific focus distinguishes it from other NFPA standards: NFPA 17 covers dry chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 13 governs sprinkler installations, and NFPA 10 covers portable extinguishers.