Focus: Fire-Life Safety / Column

Regulations, Codes & Standards Q&A: Ceiling tile replacement

Brad Keyes discusses regulations for ceiling tile replacement

By Brad Keyes / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today


Q: I have several ceiling tiles (approximately 52) that are scratched or damaged that has sprinkler heads in them. Is there a code that references or mandates the replacement of the ceiling tiles? Also, I was told once the old/current sprinkler heads are removed to replace the ceiling tiles, new sprinkler heads have to be replaced. Is that true?

A: If the ceiling tiles are stained, most surveyors will have a problem with that as that implies water which can lead to mold or mildew. If they cite the stained ceiling tiles, it would be likely be cited under an Infection Control standard.  

If the ceiling tiles have gaps or cracks wider than 1/8-inch then that will likely be cited under a sprinkler installation standard or a smoke detector installation standard, as the ceiling needs to resist the passage of smoke in order for the smoke detectors and/or sprinkler to function properly. 

But a ceiling tile that is scratched is not a Life Safety Code deficiency and likely would not be cited. 

Yes… you cannot re-install used sprinklers (see section 6.2.1 of NFPA 13-2010), so if you need to remove the sprinkler head to change the ceiling tiles, then that is a great time to update to a newer style that uses escutcheons that are removable to allow easy replacement of ceiling tiles.   

Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.



March 18, 2020


Topic Area: Regulations, Codes & Standards


Recent Posts

Choosing a Disinfectant That Kills Biofilm

Bacteria form biofilms in pipes from which cells can be released during sink use and spread outside the drains in droplets or as aerosols.


Third-Party Data Breach Case Underscores Need for Cyber Risk Management

Plaintiffs alleged negligence in safeguarding patient data; defendants denied wrongdoing but settled to avoid litigation costs.


Northwest Medical Specialties Reports Data Breach

An investigation determined that certain data within the network was potentially copied without authorization on August 15, 2025.


Streamlined Integrated Project Delivery Tackles Design Challenges

Successful implementation of IPD Light can improve patient care, project outcomes and bottom lines.


Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Central Florida - Sumter County Opens

It is a satellite location of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Central Florida.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.