HomeMy WebLinkAboutFS 2010-06-08 Item 2B - Ordinance - 2009 International Fire CodeTO:
City of Tukwila
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
Mayor Haggerton
Finance and Safety Committee
FROM: B/C Don Tomaso, Fire Marshal
DATE: May 24, 2010
SUBJECT: 2009 International Fire Code Adoption
ISSUE
Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Washington State has adopted this code effective July 1, 2010 and the City has until
July 1, 2010 to adopt this code and City amendments.
BACKGROUND
The City is required to adopt the current fire code and any modifications that can be
more restrictive, but not less restrictive, than the adopted State version of the fire code
by June 30, 2010.
We have made a few changes to clarify portions of the ordinance for the contractors
and architects. They are noted in blue on your copies.
ANALYSIS
This code cycle adoption has one section that is considered a retroactive chapter for
existing buildings. Chapter 46 is designed to provide base line fire safety for existing
buildings within the state. The majority of the commercial structures that will be affected
in Tukwila will be multi family apartment or condominium complexes classified as R 2;
they will be installing fire alarm systems with occupant notification. In addition some of
the larger "M" mercantile occupancies will also be required to provide some degree of
fire alarm upgrades if they currently do not already have a fire alarm installed.
RECOMMENDATION
The Committee is being asked to forward this item to the June 14, 2010 Committee of
the Whole and subsequent June 21, 2010 Regular meeting for adoption of the 2009
International Fire Code and appendices as amended.
ATTACHMENTS
Draft Fire Code Ordinance
Copy of Chapter 46 of the International Fire Code.
DRAFT
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, ADOPTING THE 2086 2009 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL
FIRE CODE AND APPENDICES WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS AND
AMENDMENTS, AS CODIFIED AT TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER
16.16, TO APPLY WITHIN THE CITY OF TUKWILA; REPEALING ORDINANCE
NOS. 2047, 2129 AND 2166; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to protect the health, welfare and safety of Tukwila
citizens by keeping current with the most recent fire code requirements; and
WHEREAS, to achieve this end, the City Council has determined to update its current fire
prevention and protection regulations by adopting the 2006 2009 Edition of the International
Fire Code and appendices; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to utilize its personnel resources in the most efficient
manner, and increased demands have reduced the time available to complete inspections in a
timely manner;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. TMC Chapter 16.16 shall read as follows:
Chapter 16.16
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
Sections:
16.16.010 Adoption of the International Fire Code.
16.16.020 Enforcement.
16.16.030 Definitions.
16.16.040 Establishment of Limits of Districts in which Storage of Flammable or
Combustible Liquids in Outside Aboveground Tanks is to be Prohibited.
16.16.050 Establishment of Limits in which Bulk Storage of Liquefied Petroleum Gases is to
be Restricted.
16.16.060 Establishment of Limits of Districts in which Storage of Explosives and Blasting
Agents is to be Prohibited.
16.16.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code.
16.16.080 Fees.
16.16.085 Exceptions.
16.16.090 Appeals.
16.16.100 New Materials, Processes or Occupancies which may Require Permits.
16.16.110 Violations Penalties.
16.16.120 Conflicts with Existing Codes and Ordinances.
Section 2. TMC Section 16.16.010 shall read as follows:
16.16.010 Adoption of the International Fire Code. Pursuant to RCW 35.21.180, that certain
code of technical regulations known as the International Fire Code and Appendices B, C and D,
except Section D -107 is not adopted, (2806 2009 Edition) and any amendments thereto
published by the Western Fire Chiefs Association and the International Conference of Building
Officials, is hereby adopted by this reference as if fully set forth, subject to the modifications and
amendments set forth in TMC Chapter 16.16. One copy of said Fire Code shall be maintained on
file in the office of the City Clerk for public use and inspection.
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Section 3. TMC Section 16.16.020 shall read as follows:
16.16.020 Enforcement.
A. The International Fire Code shall be enforced by the Fire Prevention Bureau in the Fire
Department of the City, which is operated under the supervision of the Chief of the Fire
Department.
B. There shall be a Fire Marshal in charge of the Fire Prevention Bureau who shall be
appointed by the Chief of the Fire Department on the basis of an examination to determine his
qualifications.
Section 4. TMC Section 16.16.030 shall read as follows:
16.16.030 Definitions.
A. Wherever the word "jurisdiction" is used in the International Fire Code, it means the
area within the city limits of the City of Tukwila, Washington.
B. Wherever the words "Fire Code Official" are used in the International Fire Code, they
mean the Fire Marshal in charge of fire prevention.
Section 5. TMC Section 16.16.040 shall read as follows:
16.16.040 Establishment of Limits of Districts in which Storage of Flammable or
Combustible Liquids in Outside Aboveground Tanks is to be Prohibited. The storage of
flammable or combustible liquids in outside aboveground storage tanks is prohibited within the
City, except as conditioned below:
1. Aboveground storage tanks shall meet the requirements of Chapter 34 of the
International Fire Code.
2. Tanks containing Class I, II or III -A Liquids shall not exceed 12,000 gallons individual
or 24,000 gallons aggregate.
3. Installation of aboveground tanks shall be subject to berming and screening as
required by the Public Works and Planning Departments respectively.
4. Installation of aboveground tanks shall be limited to MIC, LI or CLI zones.
Section 6. TMC Section 16.16.050 shall read as follows:
16.16.050 Establishment of Limits in which Bulk Storage of Liquefied Petroleum Gases is
to be Restricted. The limits referred to in Chapter 38, Section 3804.2 of the International Fire
Code, in which storage of liquefied petroleum gas is restricted, shall apply throughout the City.
NFPA 58 shall be used as the installation guide for all propane systems.
Section 7. TMC Section 16.16.060 shall read as follows:
16.16.060 Establishment of Limits of Districts in which Storage of Explosives and Blasting
Agents is to be Prohibited. The limits referred to in Chapter 33, Section 3304 of the
International Fire Code, in which storage of explosives and blasting agents is prohibited, shall
apply throughout the City.
Section 8. TMC Section 16.16.070 shall read as follows:
16.16.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code.
A. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in all occupancies. No exceptions will be
allowed.
B. Adeouate eround ladder access shall be provided to all rescue windows above the first
story. Landscape a flat, 12 -foot deep by 4 -foot wide area below each reouired rescue window.
BC.Section 503 of the International Fire Code (2003 2009 edition) adopted by this chapter is
hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 503.2
1. General. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in
accordance with the provisions of this section.
2. Definitions. The following definitions shall apply in the interpretation and
enforcement of this section:
a. "Fire apparatus access road(s)" means that area within any public right -of -way,
easement, or private property designated for the purpose of permitting fire trucks and other
firefighting or emergency equipment to use, travel upon and park.
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b. "Park," "parking," "stop," "stand" or "standing" means the halting of a vehicle,
other than an emergency vehicle, whether occupied or not, except when necessary to avoid
conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the direction of a police officer or fire official or
traffic signal or sign.
c. "Vehicle" means a machine propelled by power, other than human power,
designed to travel along the ground or rail, by the use of wheels, treads, runners or slides, and
shall include, without limitation, truck, automobile, trailer, motorcycle, tractor, buggy, wagon
and locomotive.
3. Requirements Standards.
a. When required by the Fire Department, hard surfaced fire apparatus access
road(s) shall be provided around facilities which, by their size, location, design or contents
warrant access which exceeds that normally provided by the proximity of city streets.
b. Fire apparatus access road(s) shall be required when any portion of an exterior
wall of the first story is located more than 150 feet from Fire Department vehicle access.
4. Surface. Fire apparatus access road(s) shall be either asphalt or reinforced concrete, a
minimum two inches thick, or when specifically authorized by the Fire Department, compacted
crushed rock or other alternate surfaces may be used. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus.
5. Width. The minimum unobstructed width of a fire apparatus access road shall not
be less than 20 feet.
6. Aerial Apparatus Access Roads. Aerial apparatus access roads shall not be less than
26 feet in width.
7. Vertical clearance. All fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed
vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet, 6 inches.
Exceptions:
a. When conditions prevent the installation of an approved fire apparatus access
road, the Fire Marshal may permit the installation of a fire protection system or systems in lieu
of a road.
b. When there are not more than two Group R, Division 3 or Group U occupancies,
the requirements of this section may be modified, provided that in the opinion of the Fire
Marshal, firefighting or rescue operations would not be impaired.
c. Clearances or widths required by this section may be increased, when in the
opinion of the Fire Marshal, clearances or widths are not adequate to provide fire apparatus
access.
8. Turning Radius. The turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be
approved by the Fire Marshal.
9. Turnarounds. All dead -end apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet shall be
provided with approved provisions for the turning around of fire apparatus.
10. Bridges. When a bridge is required to be used as access under this section, it shall be
constructed and maintained in accordance with the applicable sections of the International
Building Code or other regulations adopted by the City and shall use designed live loading
sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus.
11. Grade. The gradient for a fire apparatus access road shall not exceed 15% with a
cross slope no greater than 5
12. Obstruction. The required width of any fire apparatus access road shall not be
obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. Minimum required widths and
clearances established under this section shall be maintained at all times.
13. Signs.
a. When required, approved signs or other approved notices shall be provided and
maintained for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads and prohibit the obstruction
thereof or both.
b. Fire apparatus access roads shall be identified by painting the curb yellow and a
4 -inch -wide line and block letters 18 inches high, painted in the lane, at 50 -foot intervals,
stating, "FIRE LANE NO PARKING," color to be bright yellow, or by the posting of signs
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stating, "FIRE LANE NO PARKING," and painting the curb. Signs shall be posted on or
immediately next to the curb line or on the building. Signs shall be 12 inches by 18 inches and
shall have letters and background of contrasting color, readily readable from at least a 50 -foot
distance. Signs shall be spaced not further than 50 feet apart, nor shall they be more than four
feet from the ground.
c. Residential fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with signs described in
(b) above; no striping or painting shall be required.
14. Parking Prohibited. Except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, or in
compliance with the direction of a police or fire official, or traffic control sign, signal or device,
no person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle, whether occupied or not at any place where
official fire lane signs are posted, except:
a. Momentarily to pick up or discharge a passenger or passengers, or
b. Temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in loading property.
15. Fire Apparatus Road(s) as part of Driveways and/or Parking Areas. The Fire
Department may require that areas specified for use as driveways or private thoroughfares shall
not be used for parking. These areas, when specified, shall be marked or identified by one of the
two means detailed in TMC Section 16.16.070C.13.b or TMC Section 16.16.070C.13.c.
16. Existing Buildings. When the Fire Department determines that a hazard, due to
inaccessibility of fire apparatus, exists around existing buildings, they may require fire
apparatus access road(s) to be constructed and maintained.
17. Enforcement. It shall be the duty of the Tukwila Fire Marshal and /or the authorized
designee(s) to enforce Subsection 503.2.
18. Violation Penalty. Any person violating any of the provisions of Section 503.2
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction, shall result in a fine of not more than
$75.00 or by imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
Section 9. TMC Section 16.16.080 shall read as follows:
16.16.080 Fees.
A. Permit Fees: A fee of $100.00 shall be charged for each permit required by the
International Fire Code.
B. Plan review fees for alternative fire protection systems are as follows:
Commercial: For 1 -5 devices /heads:
Base fee $100.00
Commercial: For 6 or more devices /heads:
Base fee $200.00 $1.50 ver device /head in excess of 10
Resubmittal: Fee $200.00
BC. Re- inspection Fees:
1. Re- inspection Fees for New Construction and Tenant Improvements. When an
inspection is requested for new construction, tenant improvements or spot inspections, and
then, upon arrival, the Fire Inspector finds that the work is not complete, not ready for
inspection, or does not comply with fire code requirements, a follow -up inspection will be
required, and a re- inspection fee of $100.008000 will be assessed.
2. Re- inspection Fees for Company Level Inspections. A re- inspection fee of $60.00
will be assessed when, on the follow -up inspection 30 days after the initial company level
inspection, the inspector finds that the violations have not been corrected. A re- inspection fee of
$85.00 will be assessed when, on a second follow -up inspection, the inspectors find that the
violations have not been corrected. A re- inspection fee of $110.00 will be assessed when, on a
third follow -up inspection, the inspector finds that the violations have not been corrected. A re-
inspection fee of $135.00 will be assessed when, on a fourth and subsequent follow -up
inspections, the inspector finds that the violations have not been corrected.
3. Exceptions. Any exception to the items covered by this ordinance shall be made by
the Chief of the department or by the Fire Marshal. Requests for exceptions must be made in
writing; exceptions granted or denied shall be in writing.
GD. Penalties: The following penalties shall apply to these violations of the Fire Code:
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IFC Section
109.2.2
111.1
111.4
109.2.4
503.42
609.3.3
901.6.1
901.7
904.11.6
1003.6
TMC Section
16.40.110
Offense
Non compliance with orders and notices
Unlawful continuance of a hazard
Non compliance with a Stop Work Order
Unlawful removal of a tag
Illegal parking on fire apparatus access roads
Failure to: Clean commercial kitchen hoods
Failure to: Maintain fire protection systems
Failure to: Conduct a reauired fire watch
Failure to: Maintain commercial cooking extinguishing systems
Failure to: Maintain means of egress continuity
Failure to: Provide required UL central station monitoring
Bail
$5,000.00
$5,000.00
$5,000.00
$5,000.00
$10075.00
$500.00
$500.00
$500.00
$500.00
$250.00
$500.00
DE.Other Violations: Bail for all other violations is $150.0075.00 plus court costs. Fines are
forfeitable on the first offense and mandatory appearance is required on second offense.
EF. False Alarms:
1. False alarms shall not be given, signaled or transmitted or caused or permitted to be
given, signaled or transmitted in any manner. False alarms, in excess of two per year, shall be
fined under the following schedule:
a. First false alarm no fine, warning
b. Second false alarm no fine, warning
c. Third false alarm $25.00 fine
d. Fourth and subsequent false alarms $50.00 fine
2. The number of false alarms shall be calculated by calendar year beginning January 1
and ending December 31.
Section 10. TMC Section 16.16.085 shall read as follows:
16.16.085 Exceptions. Any exception to the items covered by this ordinance shall be made
by the Chief of the department or by the Fire Marshal. Requests for exceptions must be made in
writing; exceptions granted or denied shall be in writing.
Section 11. TMC Section 16.16.090 shall read as follows:
16.16.090 Appeals. Whenever the Fire Marshal disapproves an application or refuses to
grant a permit applied for, the applicant may appeal the decision to the Board of Appeals
established in Section 108 of the International Fire Code within 30 days from the date of the Fire
Marshal's decision(s). Section 108 shall be amended to read: Disputes regarding interpretation
of code provisions shall be settled by the International Fire Code Institute. When deemed
appropriate, the Fire Marshal will request a formal, written interpretation from the Institute.
Section 12. TMC Section 16.16.100 shall read as follows:
16.16.100 New Materials, Processes or Occupancies which may Require Permits. The
Planning Director, the Fire Chief and the Fire Marshal of the Fire Prevention Bureau shall act as
a committee to determine and specify, after giving affected persons an opportunity to be heard,
any new materials processes or occupancies for which permits are required, in addition to those
now encumbered in said code. The Fire Marshal of the Fire Prevention Bureau shall post such
list in a conspicuous place in his office, and distribute copies thereof to interested persons.
Section 13. TMC Section 16.16.110 shall read as follows:
16.16.110 Violations Penalties. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of TMC
Chapter 16.16, the International Fire Code or appendices adopted by TMC Chapter 16.16, or
who shall fail to comply therewith, or who shall violate or fail to comply with any order made
thereunder, or who shall build in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans
submitted and approved thereunder or any certificate or permit issued thereunder and from
which no appeal has been taken, or who shall fail to comply with such an order as affirmed or
modified by the Fire Marshal or by a court of competent jurisdiction within the time fixed
therein, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be punished
by a fine in an amount not to exceed $5,000.00, as outlined in TMC Section 16.16.080, or
imprisonment for a term not to exceed one year or by both such fine and imprisonment. The
imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the violation or permit it to
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continue. Each day or portion thereof during which any violation of the provisions of this
section is caused, permitted or continued shall constitute a separate offense and shall be
punishable as such. Application of the penalty specified in this section shall not be held to
prevent the enforced removal of prohibited conditions.
Section 14. TMC Section 16.16.120 shall read as follows:
16.16.120 Conflicts with Existing Codes and Ordinances. Whenever any provision of the
International Fire Code or Appendices adopted by this ordinance conflicts with any provision
of any other adopted code or ordinance of the City, the provision providing the greater or most
effective protection shall govern.
Section 15. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 2047, 2129 and 2166 are hereby repealed.
Section 16. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of
this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to be invalid or
unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or
unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of
this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
Section 17. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published in the
official newspaper of the City, and shall take effect and be in full force on July 1, 2010, after
passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at a
Regular Meeting thereof this day of 2010.
ATTEST/ AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'Flaherty, CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
Office of the City Attorney
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Jim Haggerton, Mayor
Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
Page 6 of 6
SECTION 4602
DEFINITIONS
4602.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
1 purpose of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have
the meaning shown herein.
EXISTING. Buildings, facilities or conditions that are already
in existence, constructed or officially authorized prior to the
adoption of this code.
CHAPTER 46
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
SECTION 4601
GENERAL
9601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to
existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this
code.
4601.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide a mini-
mum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying exist-
ing buildings by providing for alterations to such buildings that
do not comply with the minimum requirements of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
4601.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.7 and the International Building Codeand this code.
4601.4 Owner notification. Where a building is found to be in
noncompliance, the fire code official shall duly notify the
owner of the building. Upon receipt of such notice, the owner
shall, subject to the following time limits, take necessary
actions to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
4601.4.1 Construction documents. Construction docu-
ments for the necessary alterations shall be completed
within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
4601.4.2 Completion of work. Work on the required alter-
ations to the building shall be completed within a time
schedule approved by the fire code official.
4601.4.3 Extension of time. The fire code official is autho-
rized to grant necessary extensions of time when it can be
shown that the specified time periods are not physically
practical or pose an undue hardship. The granting of an
extension of time for compliance shall be based on the
showing of good cause and subject to the filing of an accept-
able systematic plan of correction with the fire code official.
SECTION 4603
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXISTING BUILDINGS
4603.1 Required construction. Existing buildings shall com-
ply with not less than the minimum provisions specified in
Table 4603.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 4603.2
through 4603.7.3.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow
the elimination of fire protection systems or a reduction in the
level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accor-
dance with previously adopted codes.
Exception: Group U occupancies.
4603.2 Elevator operation. Existing elevators with a travel
distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main
floor or other level of a building and intended to serve the needs
of emergency personnel for fire- fighting or rescue purposes
shall be provided with emergency operation in accordance with
ASME A17.3.
4603.3 Vertical openings. Interior vertical shafts, including
but not limited to stairways, elevator hoistways, service and
utility shafts, that connect two or more stories of a building,
shall be enclosed or protected as specified in Sections 4603.3.1
through 4603.3.7.
4603.3.1 Group I occupancies. In Group I occupancies,
interior vertical openings connecting two or more stories
shall be protected with 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated con-
struction.
4603.3.2 Three to five stories. In other than Group I occu-
pancies, interior vertical openings connecting three to five
stories shall be protected by either 1 -hour fire- resis-
tance -rated construction or an automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout the building in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exceptions:
1. Vertical opening protection is not required for
Group R -3 occupancies.
2. Vertical opening protection is not required for
open parking garages and ramps.
3. Vertical opening protection is not required for
escalators.
4603.3.3 More than five stories. In other than Group I
occupancies, interior vertical openings connecting more
than five stories shall be protected by 1 -hour fire- resis-
tance -rated construction.
Exceptions:
1. Vertical opening protection is not required for
Group R -3 occupancies.
2. Vertical opening protection is not required for
open parking garages and ramps.
3. Vertical opening protection is not required for
escalators.
2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® 403
0
USE
Under- 1
High Atrium and ground
SECTION rise covered building A B E F H-1 H-2 wx H-4 1-1 1-2 1-3
46032 R R R R R D R R R D D R R R
460�1 R R I
403.3.2 R R R R R R R
4603�.3 R R R R R R R
4603.3.4
4603.5 R
4003�.6 R R R R
4603.3.7 R R D R
9603.4 R
4603.5 R R R R B D
*003.6.1
4603.6.2
4603.6.3
4603.0.4
4603,6.5
*503.6.0
4603.6.7
4603.7
4604.4 R
R The building is required to comply.
TABLE 4603.1
OCCUPANCY AND USE REQUIREMENTS
R R R R
R R R R
R R R R
R R R R
R R
R R R R R
—B
R D R R R B 8 R R
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
R R R
R D D|8
R |8 R D!B
D
D R R R _R R R R R
R R DIRi R R R R B
R
R R R R R R R R
D
R
F
1-4 M m R-2 R-3
R D|B R R D
B
R R R R
R R R R R R R R R R R
4603.3.4 Atriums and covered malls. In other than Group
I occupancies, interior vertical openings in a covered mall
building or a building with an atrium shall be protected by
either 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated construction or an auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the
building in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exceptions:
1. Vertical opening protection is not required for
Group R -3 occupancies.
2. Vertical opening protection is not required for
open parking garages and ramps.
4603.3.5 Escalators in Group B and M occupancies.
Escalators creating vertical openings connecting any num-
ber of stories shall be protected by either 1 -hour fire- resis-
tance -rated construction or an automatic fire sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 installed
throughout the building, with a draft curtain and closely
spaced sprinklers around the escalator opening.
4603.3.6 Escalators connecting four or fewer stories. In
other than Group B and M occupancies, escalators creating
vertical openings connecting four or fewer stories shall be
protected by either 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated construction
or an automaticsprinklersystem accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall be installed throughout the
building, and a draft curtain with closely spaced sprinklers
shall be installed around the escalator opening.
4603.3.7 Escalators connecting more than four stories.
In other than Group B and M occupancies, escalators creat-
ing vertical openings connecting five or more stories shall
be protected by 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated construction.
4603.4 Sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided in existing buildings in accordance with Sec-
tions 4603.4.1 and 4603.4.2.
4603.4.1 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be provided throughout existing buildings where
cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufac-
tured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds
(45 kg). Vaults located within buildings for the storage of
raw pyroxylin shall be protected with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system capable of discharging 1.66 gallons
per minute per square foot (68 L /min /m over the area of
the vault.
4603.4.2 Group I -2. An automatic sprinkler systemshall be
provided throughout existing Group 1 -2 fire areas. The
sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the floor
where the Group I -2 occupancy is located, and in all floors
between the Group I -2 occupancy and the level of exit dis-
charge.
4603.5 Standpipes. Existing structures with occupied floors
located more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) above or below the low-
est level of fire department vehicle access shall be equipped
with standpipes installed in accordance with Section 905. The
standpipes shall have an approved fire department connection
with hose connections at each floor level above or below the
lowest level of fire department' access. The fire code official is
authorized to approve the installation of manual standpipe sys-
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
tems to achieve compliance with this section where the
responding fire department is capable of providing the required
hose flow at the highest standpipe outlet.
4603.6 Fire alarm systems. An approved fire alarm system
shall be installed in existing buildings and structures in accor-
dance with Sections 4603.6.1 through 4603.6.7 and provide
occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.6 unless
other requirements are provided by other sections of this code.
Exception: Occupancies with an existing, previously
approved fire alarm system.
4603.6.1 Group E. A fire alarm system shall be installed in
existing Group E occupancies in accordance with Section
907.2.3.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in a
building with a maximum area of 1,000 square feet
(93 m that contains a single classroom and is
located no closer than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from
another building.
2. A manual fire alarm system is not required in
Group E occupancies with an occupant load less
than 50.
4603.6.2 Group I -1. An automatic fire alarm system shall
be installed in existing Group I -1 residential care /assisted
living facilities in accordance with Section 907.2.6.1.
Exceptions:
1. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient
sleeping areas shall not be required at exits if
located at all nurses' control stations or other con-
stantly attended staff locations, provided such sta-
tions are visible and continuously accessible and
that travel distances required in Section 907.5.2
are not exceeded.
2. Where each sleeping room has a means of egress
door opening directly to an exterior egress balcony
that leads directly to the exits in accordance with
Section 1019, and the building is not more than
three stories in height.
4603.6.3 Group I -2. An automatic fire alarm system shall
be installed in existing Group I -2 occupancies in accordance
with Section 907.2.6.2.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or
patient sleeping areas shall not be required at exits if
located at all nurses' control stations or other constantly
attended staff locations, provided such stations are visi-
ble and continuously accessible and that travel distances
required in Section 907.5.2.1 are not exceeded.
4603.6.4 Group I -3. An automatic and manual fire alarm
system shall be installed in existing Group I -3 occupancies
in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.
4603.6.5 Group R -1. A fire alarm system and smoke alarms
shall be installed in existing Group R -1 occupancies in
accordance with Sections 4603.6.5.1 through 4603.6.5.2.1.
2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE 405
1
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
4603.6.5.1 Group R -1 hotel and motel manual fire
alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates
the occupant notification system in accordance with Sec-
tion 907.6 shall be installed in existing Group R -1 hotels
and motels more than three stories or with more than 20
sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings less than two stories in height where
all sleeping units, attics and crawl spaces are
separated by 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated con-
struction and each sleeping unit has direct
access to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
throughout the building when the following
conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;
2.2. The notification appliances will acti-
vate upon sprinkler water flow; and
2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is
installed at an approved location.
4603.6.5.1.1 Group R -1 hotel and motel automatic
smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detec-
tion system that activates the occupant notification sys-
tem in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed
in existing Group R -1 hotels and motels throughout all
interior corridors serving sleeping rooms not equipped
with an approved, supervised sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system
is not required in buildings that do not have interior
corridors serving sleeping units and where each
sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening
directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that
leads directly to an exit.
4603.6.5.2 Group R -1 boarding and rooming houses
manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system
that activates the occupant notification system in accor-
dance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in existing
Group R -1 boarding and rooming houses.
Exception: Buildings less than two stories in height
where all sleeping units, attics and crawl spaces are
separated by 1 -hour fire- resistance -rated construc-
tion and each sleeping unit has direct access to a pub-
lic way, exit court or yard.
4603.6.5.2.1 Group R -1 boarding and rooming
houses automatic smoke detection system. An
automatic smoke detection system that activates the
occupant notification system in accordance with Sec-
tion 907.6 shall be installed in existing Group R -1
boarding and rooming houses throughout all interior
corridors serving sleeping units not equipped with an
approved, supervised sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.
Exception: Buildings equipped with single -sta-
tion smoke alarms meeting or exceeding the
requirements of Section 907.2.10.1 and where the
fire alarm system includes at least one manual fire
alarm box per floor arranged to initiate the alarm.
4603.6.6 Group R -2. An automatic or manual fire alarm
system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in existing
Group R -2 occupancies more than three stories in height or
with more than 16 dwelling or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. Where each living unit is separated from other
contiguous living units by fire barriers having a
fire resistance rating of not less than 0.75 hour,
and where each living unit has either its own inde-
pendent exit or its own independent stairway or
ramp discharging at grade.
2. A separate fire alarm system is not required in
buildings that are equipped throughout with an
approved supervised automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
903.3.1.2 and having a local alarm to notify all
occupants.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings
that do not have interior corridors serving dwell-
ing units and are protected by an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that
dwelling units either have a means of egress door
opening directly to an exterior exit access that
leads directly to the exits or are served by
open -ended corridors designed in accordance
with Section 1023.6, Exception 4.
4603.6.7 Group R -4. An automatic or manual fire alarm
system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in existing
Group R -4 residential care /assisted living facilities in accor-
dance with Section 907.2.10.
Exceptions:
1. Where there are interconnected smoke alarms
meeting the requirements of Section 907.2.11 and
there is at least one manual fire alarm box per floor
arranged to continuously sound the smoke alarms.
2. Other manually activated, continuously sounding
alarms approved by the fire code official.
4603.7 Single- and multiple- station smoke alarms. Single
and multiple- station smoke alarms shall be installed in existing
Group R occupancies and in dwellings not classified as Group
R occupancies in accordance with Sections 4603.7.1 through
4603.7.3.
4603.7.1 Where required. Existing Group R occupancies
and dwellings not classified as Group R occupancies not
406 2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
already provided with single- station smoke alarms shall be
provided with single- station smoke alarms. Installation
shall be in accordance with Section 907.2.10, except as pro-
vided in Sections 4603.7.2 and 4603.7.3.
9603.7.2 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke
alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwell-
ing or sleeping unit, the smoke alarms shall be intercon-
nected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will
activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. The alarm
shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background
noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
Exceptions:
1. Interconnection is not required in buildings that
are not undergoing alterations, repairs or con-
struction of any kind.
2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to
be interconnected where alterations or repairs do
not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling
finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an
attic, crawl space or basement available which
could provide access for interconnection without
the removal of interior finishes.
4603.7.3 Power source. Single- station smoke alarms shall
receive their primary power from the building wiring pro-
vided that such wiring is served from a commercial source
and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms
with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery
backup shall be connected to an emergency electrical sys-
tem. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are
low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting
switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery
operated in existing buildings where no construc-
tion is taking place.
2. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery
operated in buildings that are not served from a
commercial power source.
3. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery
operated in existing areas of buildings undergoing
alterationsor repairs that do not result in the removal
of interior walls or ceiling finishes exposing the
structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or base
mentavailable which could provide access for build-
ing wiring without the removal of interior finishes.
SECTION 4604
MEANS OF EGRESS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
4604.1 General. Means of egress in existing buildings shall
comply with the minimum egress requirements when specified
in Table 4603.1 as further enumerated in Sections 4604.2
through 4604.21, and the building code that applied at the time
of construction. Where the provisions conflict, the most
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
restrictive provision shall apply. Existing buildings that were
not required to comply with a building code at the time of con-
struction shall comply with the minimum egress requirements
when specified in Table 4603.1 as further enumerated in Sec-
tions 4604.2 through 4604.21 and, in addition, shall have a life
safety evaluation prepared, consistent with the requirements of
Section 104.7.2. The life safety evaluation shall identify any
changes to the means of egress that are necessary to provide
safe egress to occupants and shall be subject to review and
approval by the fire code official. The building shall be modi-
fied to comply with the recommendations set forth in the
approved evaluation.
4604.2 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators,
escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component
of a required means of egress.
Exceptions:
1. Elevators used as an accessible means of egress
where allowed by Section 1007.4.
2. Previously approved escalators and moving walks in
existing buildings.
4604.3 Exit sign illumination. Exitsigns shall be internally or
externally illuminated. The face of an exit sign illuminated
from an external source shall have an intensity of not less than 5
foot candles (54 lux). Internally illuminated signs shall pro-
vide equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose.
Exception: Approved self luminous signs that provide
evenly illuminated letters shall have a minimum luminance
of 0.06 foot lamberts (0.21 cd /m
4604.4 Power source. Where emergency illumination is
required in Section 4604.5, exit signs shall be visible under
emergency illumination conditions.
Exception: Approved signs that provide continuous illu-
mination independent of external power sources are not
required to be connected to an emergency electrical sys-
tem.
4604.5 Illumination emergency power. The power supply
for means of egress illumination shall normally be provided
by the premises' electrical supply. In the event of power sup-
ply failure, illumination shall be automatically provided
from an emergency system for the following occupancies
where such occupancies require two or more means of
egress:
1. Group A having 50 or more occupants.
Exception: Assembly occupancies used exclusively
as a place of worship and having an occupant load of
less than 300.
2. Group B buildings three or more stories in height, build-
ings with 100 or more occupants above or below a level
of exit discharge serving the occupants or buildings with
1,000 or more total occupants.
3. Group E in interior stairs, corridors, windowless areas
with student occupancy, shops and laboratories.
2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE 407
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
4. Group F having more than 100 occupants.
Exception: Buildings used only during daylight hours
which are provided with windows for natural light in
accordance with the International Building Code.
5. Group I.
6. Group M.
Exception: Buildings less than 3,000 square feet
(279 m in gross sales area on one story only, exclud-
ing mezzanines.
7. Group R -1.
Exception: Where each sleeping unit has direct
access to the outside of the building at grade.
8. Group R -2.
Exception: Where each dwelling unit or sleeping unit
has direct access to the outside of the building at grade.
9. Group R -4.
Exception: Where each sleeping unit has direct
access to the outside of the building at ground level.
4604.5.1 Emergency power duration and installation. In
other than Group I -2, the emergency power system shall
provide power for not less than 60 minutes and consist of
storage batteries, unit equipment or an on -site generator. In
Group I -2, the emergency power system shall provide
power for not less than 90 minutes and consist of storage
batteries, unit equipment or an on -site generator. The instal-
lation of the emergency power system shall be in accor-
dance with Section 604.
4604.6 Guards. Guards complying with this section shall be
provided at the open sides of means ofegress are more than
30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below.
4604.6.1 Height of guards. Guards shall form a protective
barrier not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) high.
Exceptions:
1. Existing guards on the open side of stairs shall be
not less than 30 inches (760 mm) high.
2. Existing guards within dwelling units shall be not
less than 36 inches (910 mm) high.
3. Existing guards in assembly seating areas.
4604.6.2 Opening limitations. Open guards shall have bal-
usters or ornamental patterns such that a 6- inch diameter
TABLE 4604.7
EGRESS WIDTH PER OCCUPANT SERVED
WITHOUT SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Stairways I Other egress components
(inches per occupant) j (inches per occupant)
OCCUPANCY
Occupancies other than those listed
below
Hazardous: H -1, H -2, H -3 and H -4
I Institutional: 1-2
For SI: 1 inch 25.9 mm.
a. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
0.3
Not permitted
Not permitted
(152 mm) sphere cannot pass through any opening up to a
height of 34 inches (864 mm).
Exceptions:
1. At elevated walking surfaces for access to, and use
of, electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or
equipment, guards shall have balusters or be of
solid materials such that a sphere with a diameter
of 21 inches (533 mm) cannot pass through any
opening.
2. In occupancies in Group I -3, F, H or S, the clear
distance between intermediate rails measured at
right angles to the rails shall not exceed 21 inches
(533 mm).
3. Approved existing open guards.
4604.7 Minimum required egress width. The means of egress
width shall not be less than as required by the code under which
constructed but not less than as required by this section. The total
width of means of egress in inches (mm) shall not be less than the
total occupant load served by the means of egress multiplied by
the factors in Table 4604.7 and not less than specified elsewhere
in this section. Multiple means of egress shall be sized such that
the loss of any one means of egress shall not reduce the available
capacity to less than 50 percent of the required capacity. The
maximum capacity required from any story of a building shall be
maintained to the termination of the means of egress.
4604.8 Size of doors. The minimum width of each door open-
ing shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall
provide a clear width of not less than 28 inches (711 mm).
Where this section requires a minimum clear width of 28
inches (711 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves
without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a clear opening width
of 28 inches (711 mm). The maximum width of a swinging
door leaf shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of
egress doors in an occupancy in Group I -2 used for the move-
ment of beds shall provide a clear width not less than 41.5
inches (1054 mm). The height of doors shall not be less than 80
inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
1. The minimum and maximum width shall not apply to
door openings that are not part of the required means
of egress in occupancies in Groups R -2 and R -3.
2. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square
feet (0.93 m in area shall not be limited by the mini-
mum width.
WITH SPRINKLER SYSTEM'
Stairways Other egress components
(inches per occupant) (inches per occupant)
0.2 0.2 0.15
Not permitted
Not permitted
0.3 0.2
0.3 0.2
408 2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
1
1
1
3. Width of door leafs in revolving doors that comply
with Section 1008.1.4.1 shall not be limited.
4. Door openings within a dwelling unit shall not be less
than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height.
5. Exterior door openings in dwelling units, other than
the required exit door, shall not be less than 76 inches
(1930 mm) in height.
6. Exit access doors serving a room not larger than 70
square feet (6.5 m shall be not less than 24 inches
(610 mm) in door width.
4604.9 Opening force for doors. The opening force for inte-
rior side swinging doors without closers shall not exceed a
5 -pound (22 N) force. For other side swinging, sliding and
folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a
force of not more than 15 pounds (66 N). The door shall be set
motion when subjected to a force not exceeding 30 pounds
(133 N). The door shall swing to a full -open position when sub-
jected to a force of not more than 50 pounds (222 N). Forces
shall be applied to the latch side.
4604.10 Revolving doors. Revolving doors shall comply with
the following:
1. A revolving door shall not be located within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the foot or top of stairs or escalators. A dis-
persal area shall be provided between the stairs or escala-
tors and the revolving doors.
2. The revolutions per minute for a revolving door shall not
exceed those shown in Table 4604.10.
3. Each revolving door shall have a conforming side
hinged swinging door in the same wall as the revolving
door and within 10 feet (3048 mm).
Exceptions:
1. A revolving door is permitted to be used with-
out an adjacent swinging door for street -floor
elevator lobbies provided a stairway, escalator
or door from other parts of the building does not
discharge through the lobby and the lobby does
not have any occupancy or use other than as a
means of travel between elevators and a street.
2. Existing revolving doors where the number of
revolving doors does not exceed the number of
swinging doors within 20 feet (6096 mm).
4604.10.1 Egress component. A revolving door used as a
component of a means of egress shall comply with Section
4604.10 and all of the following conditions:
1. Revolving doors shall not be given credit for more
than 50 percent of the required egress capacity.
2. Each revolving door shall be credited with not more
than a 50- person capacity.
3. Revolving doors shall be capable of being collapsed
when a force of not more than 130 pounds (578 N) is
applied within 3 inches (76 mm) of the outer edge of a
wing.
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
INSIDE DIAMETER
6' 6"
7 0"
7 6"
8' 0"
8' 6"
9' 0"
9' 6"
10' 0"
TABLE 4604.10
REVOLVING DOOR SPEEDS
For SI: 1 inch 25.4 mm, 1 foot 304.8 mm.
POWER DRIVEN -TYPE MANUAL -TYPE SPEED
SPEED CONTROL(RPM) CONTROL (RPM)
11
10
9
9
8
8
7
7
12
11
11
10
9
9
8
8
4604.11 Stair dimensions for existing stairs. Existing stairs
in buildings shall be permitted to remain if the rise does not
exceed 8 inches (210 mm) and the run is not less than 9
inches (229 mm). Existing stairs can be rebuilt.
Exception: Other stairs approved by the fire code official.
4604.11.1 Dimensions for replacement stairs. The
replacement of an existing stairway in a structure shall not
be required to comply with the new stairway requirements
of Section 1009 where the existing space and construction
will not allow a reduction in pitch or slope.
4604.12 Winders. Existing winders shall be allowed to remain
in use if they have a minimum tread depth of 6 inches (152 mm)
and a minimum tread depth of 9 inches (229 mm) at a point 12
inches (305 mm) from the narrowest edge.
4604.13 Circular stairways. Existing circular stairs shall be
allowed to continue in use provided the minimum depth of
tread is 10 inches (254 mm) and the smallest radius shall not be
less than twice the width of the stairway.
4604.14 Stairway handrails. Stairways shall have handrails
on at least one side. Handrails shall be located so that all por-
tions of the stairway width required for egress capacity are
within 44 inches (1118 mm) of a handrail.
Exception: Aisle stairs provided with a center handrail are
not required to have additional handrails.
4604.1.4.1 Height. Handrail height, measured above stair
tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762
mm) and not more than 42 inches (1067 mm).
4604.15 Slope of ramps. Ramp runs utilized as part of a means
of egress shall have a running slope not steeper than one unit
vertical in 10 units horizontal (10- percent slope). The slope of
other ramps shall not be steeper than one unit vertical in eight
units horizontal (12.5- percent slope).
4604.16 Width of ramps. Existing ramps are permitted to
have a minimum width of 30 inches (762 mm) but not less than
the width required for the number of occupants served as deter-
mined by Section 1005.1.
2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE 409
1
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
9604.17 Fire escape stairs. Fire escape stairs shall comply
with Sections 4604.17.1 through 4604.17.7.
4604.17.1 Existing means of egress. Fire escape stairs
shall be permitted in existing buildings but shall not consti-
tute more than 50 percent of the required exit capacity.
4604.17.2 Protection of openings. Openings within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of fire escape stairs shall be protected by fire
door assemblies having a minimum 3 4 -hour fire- resistance
rating.
Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system, opening protec-
tion is not required.
9604.17.3 Dimensions. Fire escape stairs shall meet the
minimum width, capacity, riser height and tread depth as
specified in Section 4604.11.
4604.17.4 Access. Access to a fire escape from a corridor
shall not be through an intervening room. Access to a fire
escape stair shall be from a door or window meeting the cri-
teria of Section 1005.1. Access to a fire escape stair shall be
directly to a balcony, landing or platform. These shall be no
higher than the floor or window sill level and no lower than 8
inches (203 mm) below the floor level or 18 inches (457
mm) below the window sill.
4609.17.5 Materials and strength. Components of fire
escape stairs shall be constructed of noncombustible materi-
als. Fire escape stairs and balconies shall support the dead
load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square
foot (4.78 kN /m Fire escape stairs and balconies shall be
provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side.
The fire code official is authorized to require testing or other
satisfactory evidence that an existing fire escape stair meets
the requirements of this section.
4604.17.6 Termination. The lowest balcony shall not be
more than 18 feet (5486 mm) from the ground. Fire escape
stairs shall extend to the ground or be provided with coun-
terbalanced stairs reaching the ground.
Exception: For fire escape stairs serving 10 or fewer
occupants, an approved fire escape ladder is allowed to
serve as the termination.
9604.17.7 Maintenance. Fire escapes shall be kept clear
and unobstructed at all times and shall be maintained in
good working order.
9604.18 Corridors. Corridors serving an occupant load
greater than 30 and the openings therein shall provide an effec-
tive barrier to resist the movement of smoke. Transoms, lou-
vers, doors and other openings shall be kept closed or self
closing.
Exceptions:
1. Corridors in occupancies other than in Group H,
which are equipped throughout with an approved
automatic sprinkler system.
2. Patient room doors in corridors in occupancies in
Group I -2 where smoke barriers are provided in
accordance with the International Building Code.
3. Corridors in occupancies in Group E where each
room utilized for instruction or assembly has at least
one -half of the required means of egress doors open-
ing directly to the exterior of the building at ground
level.
4. Corridors that are in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code.
4604.18.1 Corridor openings. Openings in corridorwalls
shall comply with the requirements of the International
Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Where 20- minute fire door assemblies are
required, solid wood doors at least 1.75 inches (44
mm) thick or insulated steel doors are allowed.
2. Openings protected with fixed wire glass set in
steel frames.
3. Openings covered with 0.5 -inch (12.7 mm) gyp-
sum wallboard or 0.75 -inch (19.1 mm) plywood
on the room side.
4. Opening protection is not required when the build-
ing is equipped throughout with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system.
4604.18.2 Dead ends. Where more than one exit or exit
access doorway is required, the exitaccessshall be arranged
such that dead ends do not exceed the limits specified in
Table 4604.18.2.
Exception: A dead -end passageway or corridor shall
not be limited in length where the length of the dead -end
passageway or corridor is less than 2.5 times the least
width of the dead -end passageway or corridor.
4604.18.3 Exit access travel distance. Exits shall be
located so that the maximum length of exit access
travel, measured from the most remote point to an
approved exit along the natural and unobstructed path
of egress travel, does not exceed the distances given in
Table 4604.18.2.
4609.18.4 Common path of egress travel. The common
path of egress travel shall not exceed the distances given in
Table 4604.18.2.
4604.19 Stairway discharge identification. A stairway in an
exit enclosure which continues below its level of exit discharge
shall be arranged and marked to make the direction of egress to
a public way readily identifiable.
Exception: Stairs that continue one -half story beyond their
levels of exit discharge need not be provided with barriers
where the exit discharge is obvious.
4604.20 Exterior stairway protection. Exterior exit stairs
shall be separated from the interior of the building as required
in Section 1026.6. Openings shall be limited to those necessary
for egress from normally occupied spaces.
Exceptions:
1. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for buildings that are two stories or less
410 2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
above grade where the level of exit discharge serving
such occupancies is the first story above grade.
2. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required where the exterior stairway is served by an
exterior balcony that connects two remote exterior
stairways or other approved exits, with a perimeter
that is not less than 50 percent open. To be considered
open, the opening shall be a minimum of 50 percent of
the height of the enclosing wall, with the top of the
opening not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the top
of the balcony.
3. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for an exterior stairway located in a build-
ing or structure that is permitted to have unenclosed
interior stairwaysin accordance with Section 1022.
OCCUPANCY
Group A
Group B
Group E
Group F -1, S -l
Group F -2, S -2d
Group H -1
Group H -2
Group H -3
Group H -4
Group H -5
Group I -1
Group 1 -2 (Health Care)
Group 1 -3
(Detention and Correctional
Use Conditions II, III, IV, V)
Group 1 -4 (Day Care Centers) NR
Group M (Covered Mall) 75
1 Group M (Mercantile) 1 75
1 Group R -1 (Hotels) 1 75
Group R -2 (Apartments)__ 1 75
Group R -3 (One- and Two- Family) 1 NR
TABLE 4604.18.2
COMMON PATH, DEAD -END AND TRAVEL DISTANCE LIMITS (by occupancy)
COMMON PATH LIMIT
Unsprinklered Sprinklered
(feet) (feet)
20/75a 20/75a
75 100
75 75
75 100
75 100
25 25
50 100
50 100
75 75
75 75
75 75
NRe NRe
100 100
NR NR
NR
1
100
100
75 j
75
NR
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
4. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for exterior stairways connected to
open -ended corridors, provided that:
4.1. The building, including corridors and stairs,
is equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
4.2. The open -ended corridors comply with Sec-
tion 1018.
Unsprinklered
(feet)
20b
50
20
50
50
0
0
20
20
20
20
NR
4.3. The open -ended corridors are connected on
each end to an exterior exit stairway comply-
ing with Section 1026.
4.4. At any location in an open -ended corridor
where a change of direction exceeding 45 de-
DEAD -END LIMIT TRAVEL DISTANCE LIMIT
NR NR
20 20 200
50 50 200
50 1 50 200 1
50 I 50 200 1
50 1 50 200
NR 1 NR NR
NR NR
Sprinklered Unsprinklered
feet) (feet)
20" 200
50 I 200
50 200
50 200
50 300
0 75
0 75
20 100
20 150
20 150
50 200
NR 150
Sprinklered
(feet)
250
250
250
250
400
75
100
150
175
200
250
200'
150' 200'
Group R -4 (Residential
Care /Assisted Living)
1 Group U 1 75 1 75 1 20 1 50 1 200 1 250
For SI: I foot 304.8 mm.
a. 20 feet for common path serving 50 or more persons: 75 feet for common path serving less than 50 persons.
b. See Section 1028.9.5 for dead -end aisles in Group A occupancies.
c. This dimension is for the total travel distance, assuming incremental portions have fully utilized their allowable maximums. For travel distance within the room,
and from the room exit access door to the exit, see the appropriate occupancy chapter.
d. See the International Building Code for special requirements on spacing of doors in aircraft hangars.
e. Any patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient sleeping rooms, of more than 1.000 square feet (93 m shall have at least two exit access doors placed a
distance apart equal to not less than one -third of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the patient sleeping room or suite to be served, measured
in a straight line between exit access doors.
NR No requirements.
NR NR
250
400
250
250
250
NR
2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE 411
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
grees occurs, a clear opening of not less than
35 square feet (3 m or an exterior stairway
shall be provided. Where clear openings are
provided, they shall be located so as to mini-
mize the accumulation of smoke or toxic
gases.
4604.21 Minimum aisle width. The minimum clear width of
aisles shall be:
1. Forty -two inches (1067 mm) for aisle stairs having seat-
ing on each side.
Exception: Thirty -six inches (914 mm) where the
aisle serves less than 50 seats.
2. Thirty -six inches (914 mm) for stepped aisles having
seating on only one side.
Exception: Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment
areas serving not more than 60 seats.
3. Twenty inches (508 mm) between a stepped aisle hand-
rail or guard and seating when the aisle is subdivided by
the handrail.
4. Forty -two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped aisles
having seating on both sides.
Exception: Thirty -six inches (914 mm) where the
aisle serves less than 50 seats.
5. Thirty -six inches (914 mrn) for level or ramped aisles
having seating on only one side.
Exception: Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment
areas serving not more than 60 seats.
6. Twenty -three inches (584 mm) between a stepped stair
handrail and seating where an aisle does not serve more
than five rows on one side.
4604.22 Stairway floor number signs. Existing stairs shall be
marked in accordance with Section 1022.8.
9604.23 Egress path markings. Existing buildings of Groups
A, B, E, I, M and R -1 having occupied floors located more than
75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department
vehicle access shall be provided with luminous egress path
markings in accordance with Section 1024.
Exception: Open, unenclosed stairwells in historic build-
ings designated as historic under a state or local historic
preservation program.
SECTION 4605
REQUIREMENTS FOR OUTDOOR OPERATIONS
4605.1 Tire storage yards. Existing tire storage yards shall be
provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with
Sections 4605.1.1 and 4605.1.2.
4605.1.1 Access to piles. Access roadways shall be within
150 feet (45 720 mm) of any point in the storage yard where
storage piles are located, at least 20 feet (6096 mm) from
any storage pile.
4605.1.2 Location within piles. Fire apparatus access
roads shall be located within all pile clearances identified in
Section 2505.4 and within all fire breaks required in Section
2505.5.
412 2009 INTERNATIONAL. FIRE CODE®