14B-9-901 The provisions of Section 901 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
The provisions of this chapter shall specify where fire protection and life safety systems are required and shall apply to the design, installation and operation of fire protection systems.
The fire code official shall be authorized to promulgate rules, not inconsistent with this code, which modify the following referenced standards for the design of fire protection systems for consistency with existing installations and the operations of the Chicago Fire Department: NFPA 10, NFPA 13, NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, NFPA 14, NFPA 20, NFPA 25, NFPA 72 and NFPA 92. Where the fire code official has promulgated such rules and posted them on the city's public web site, references to such standards in the Chicago Construction Codes shall mean such standards as modified by the fire code official's rules.
Fire protection systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance with this code and the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Any fire protection system for which an exception or reduction under the provisions of this code has been granted shall be considered to be a required system.
Exception: Any fire protection system or portion thereof not required by this code shall be permitted to be installed for partial or complete protection provided that such system meets the requirements of this code.
It is unlawful for any person to remove, modify or disable for more than 24 hours any automatic sprinkler system, automatic fire-extinguishing system, standpipe system or fire pump installed or maintained under the provisions of this code or the Chicago Fire Prevention Code without a permit from the fire code official. It is unlawful for any person to remove, modify or disable for more than 24 hours a fire alarm and detection system, smoke control system or carbon monoxide detection system without a permit from the building official. It is unlawful for any person to modify a fire command center without approval by the fire code official and a permit from the building official.
Threads provided for fire department connections to sprinkler systems, standpipes, yard hydrants or any other fire hose connection shall be compatible with the connections used by the Chicago Fire Department.
Fire protection systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of this code and the Chicago Fire Prevention Code. Where required, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of the fire code official. Tests required by this code, the Chicago Fire Prevention Code and the standards listed in this code shall be conducted at the expense of the owner. It shall be unlawful to occupy portions of a structure until the required fire protection systems within that portion of the structure have been tested and accepted.
Where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by a supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72 or connected to a city fire alarm box in accordance with Section 919. A provider of supervising station services shall notify the fire code official no less than 48 hours before terminating services to a building.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be monitored by a supervising station.
Exceptions:
- A supervising station is not required for automatic sprinkler systems protecting Group R-5 occupancies.
- Limited area systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8.
Fire alarm systems required by the provisions of Section 907.2 of this code shall be monitored by a supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.6 of this code.
Exceptions:
- Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.10.
- Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
- Supervisory service is not required for automatic sprinkler systems in Group R-5 occupancies.
Supervision and monitoring of emergency alarm, detection and automatic fire-extinguishing systems in Group H occupancies shall be in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire areas shall be separated by fire walls constructed in accordance with Section 706, fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707, or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or a combination thereof having a fire-resistance rating of not less than that determined in accordance with Section 707.3.10.
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14B-9-902 The provisions of Section 902 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modification:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Where provided, fire pump rooms and automatic sprinkler system riser rooms shall be designed with adequate space for all equipment necessary for the installation, as defined by the manufacturer, with sufficient working room around the stationary equipment. Clearances around equipment to elements of permanent construction, including other installed equipment and appliances, shall be sufficient to allow inspection, service, repair or replacement without removing such elements of permanent construction or disabling the function of a required fire-resistance-rated assembly. Fire pump and automatic sprinkler system riser rooms shall be provided with doors and unobstructed passageways large enough to allow removal of the largest piece of equipment.
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Automatic sprinkler system risers, fire pumps and controllers shall be provided with ready access. Where located in a fire pump room or automatic sprinkler system riser room, the door shall be permitted to be locked provided that the key is available at all times.
Access doors for automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms shall be labeled. The lettering shall be in contrasting color to the background. Letters shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (51 mm) with a minimum stroke of 3/8 inch (10 mm).
Automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms shall be maintained at a temperature of not less than 40°F (4°C). Heating units shall be permanently installed.
Permanently installed artificial illumination shall be provided in the automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms.
14B-9-903 The provisions of Section 903 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
Amended Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section.
Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall be permitted instead of automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and approved by the fire code official.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be installed in hazardous chemical rooms or in hazardous chemical storage buildings, where the chemical has the ability to react with water to produce substances or violent chemical reactions which increase the hazard. When the presence of water will not add to the hazard, an automatic sprinkler system shall be required in such hazardous chemical room or building.
Automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-1 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-1 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-2 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-2 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more and is located on a floor more than four feet (1219 mm) below the lowest level of exit discharge serving such occupancy.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- [Reserved]
- The Group A-3 occupancy contains one or more exhibition areas exceeding 5,000 square feet (464 m2) in aggregate.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-4 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-4 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
- [Reserved]
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for all enclosed Group A-5 accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet (93 m2).
Enclosed spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 where either of the following exist:
- The enclosed area is 1,000 square feet (93 m2) or less and is not constructed in accordance with Section 1029.1.1.1.
- The enclosed area exceeds 1,000 square feet (93 m2).
Where an occupiable rooftop has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load of 300 or more, all floors between the occupiable rooftop and the level of exit discharge shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the building where multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components and the combined occupant load of theses fire areas is 300 or more.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group B occupancies as provided in this section.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility where either of the following conditions exist at any time:
- Four or more care recipients are incapable of self-preservation.
- One or more care recipients that are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.
In buildings where ambulatory care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor as well as all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit discharge, the level of exit discharge, and all floors below the level of exit discharge.
An automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be installed throughout buildings containing telephone exchanges.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:
- Throughout all Group E fire areas and all connected Group A fire areas in buildings where the aggregate area of all Group E and connected Group A fire areas is 7,200 square feet (669 m2) or greater.
- Throughout buildings containing Group E occupancies owned by, operated by or constructed with funding from a governmental unit.
- Throughout buildings containing Group E-2 occupancies.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
- The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m2).
- A Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m2).
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy buildings that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232 m2) in area that generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials.
An automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be provided throughout any structure that is owned or operated by any person whose primary business is the generation or transmission of electrical power and that houses one or more electrical generators, electrical transformers, or switching equipment for a service area beyond the building in which the equipment is located.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in Sections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H occupancies.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group H-5 occupancies. The design of the sprinkler system shall be not less than that required by this code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.5.2.
Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.
GROUP H-5 SPRINKLER DESIGN CRITERIA
| LOCATION | OCCUPANCY HAZARD CLASSIFICATION |
| Fabrication areas | Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
| Service corridors | Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
| Storage rooms without dispensing | Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
| Storage rooms with dispensing | Extra Hazard Group 2 |
| Corridors | Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).
Exceptions:
- An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group I-1, Condition 1 facilities.
- An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 day care facilities are at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
- The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m2).
- A Group M occupancy where the area used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
- A Group M fire area is located in a basement.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code in all buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exceptions:
- Buildings of Group R-5 occupancy.
- Buildings of Group R-2 occupancy, other than congregate living facilities, with not more than four stories above grade plane and containing not more than ten dwelling units where each fire area contains not more than two dwelling units and all required vertical exits are interior exit stairways.
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An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 and R-5 occupancies.
An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-4, Condition 1 occupancies.
An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancies.
An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with five or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
- A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
- The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m2).
- A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
- A Group S-1 occupancy where the area used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m2).
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406, as shown:
- Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet (929 m2).
- Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
- Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
- A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
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Buildings and structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000 cubic feet (566 m3) shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing parking garages in accordance with Section 406.6 where any of the following conditions exists:
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
In all occupancies other than Group U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.8.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2) and where the story does not comply with the following criteria for exterior wall openings:
- Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior stairway complying with Section 1011 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1012. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
- Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling not less than 20 square feet (1.86 m2) in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). The height of the bottom of the clear opening shall not exceed 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.
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Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Access to such openings shall be provided for the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner such that fire fighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.
Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, or where walls, partitions or other obstructions are installed that restrict the application of water from hose streams, the basement shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes shall have additional sprinkler heads installed at alternate floors and at the lowest intake. Where a rubbish chute extends through a building more than one floor below the lowest intake, the extension shall have sprinklers installed that are recessed from the drop area of the chute and protected from freezing in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Such sprinklers shall be installed at alternate floors, beginning with the second level below the last intake and ending with the floor above the discharge. Access to sprinklers in chutes shall be provided for servicing.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings that are more than 70 feet (21.3 m) in building height.
Where required by the Chicago Mechanical Code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts conveying hazardous exhaust or flammable or combustible materials.
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct systems where an automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all rooms and spaces used as paint shops, wastepaper baling or storage, and other storage uses having a similar degree of combustibility.
Exceptions:
- Shops and storerooms located in a Group R-5 occupancy.
- Shops and storerooms not exceeding 1,000 square feet (93 m2) in a building not exceeding one story above grade plane.
Every fire area within an existing structure containing a telecommunication equipment area that exceeds 150 square feet (13.93 m2) must be equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system.
In addition to the requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.8 require the installation of a fire suppression system for certain buildings and areas.
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS
| SECTION | SUBJECT |
| 403.3 | High-rise buildings |
| 404.3 | Atriums |
| 405.3 | Underground structures |
| 407.7 | Group I-2 |
| 410.6 | Stages |
| 411.3 | Special amusement buildings |
| 412.2.4 | Airport traffic control towers |
| 412.3.6, 412.3.6.1, | Aircraft hangars |
| 419.5 | Live/work units |
| 509.4 | Incidental uses |
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Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8.
Sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 unless otherwise permitted by Sections 903.3.1.2 and 903.3.1.3 and other chapters of this code, as applicable.
Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in Sections 903.3.1.1.1 and 903.3.1.1.2.
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Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from a room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
- A room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard.
- A room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents, where approved by the fire code official.
- Generator, transformer and switchboard rooms separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
- [Reserved]
- Elevator machine rooms, elevator shafts and machinery spaces. (Automatic sprinklers shall be provided in elevator pits.)
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Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies up to and including four stories above grade plane shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R, provided the building shall not exceed 60 feet (18 288 mm) in building height."
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Sprinkler protection shall be provided in open-ended corridors and associated exterior stairways and ramps as specified in Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
Attic protection shall be provided as follows:
- Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
- Where fuel-fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic, not fewer than one quick-response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment.
- [Reserved]
- Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 to have sprinklers shall comply with one of the following:
- 4.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection.
- 4.2. Provide a heat detection system throughout the attic that is arranged to activate the building fire alarm system.
- 4.3. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials.
- 4.4. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2.
- 4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.
Automatic sprinkler systems installed in Group R-5; Group R-3; and Group R-4, Condition 1 shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D, provided the building shall not exceed 45 feet (13.7 m) in building height.
Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code, quick-response or residential automatic sprinklers shall be installed in all of the following areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1 and their listings:
- Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing care recipient sleeping units in Group I-2 in accordance with this code.
- Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing treatment rooms in ambulatory care facilities.
- Dwelling units and sleeping units in Group I-1 and R occupancies.
- Light-hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA 13.
Automatic sprinklers shall be installed with regard to obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern and shall be in accordance with the applicable automatic sprinkler system standard that is being used. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands, or equipment that exceeds 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Not less than a 3-foot (914 mm) clearance shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible fibers.
Exception: Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods protected with a fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 904.
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Automatic sprinkler systems shall be automatically actuated unless specifically provided for in this code.
Water supplies for automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section and the standards referenced in Section 903.3.1. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the requirements of this section and the Chicago Plumbing Code. For connections to the public waterworks systems, the water supply test used for design of fire protection systems shall be acceptable to the fire code official and not less than one year old.
Where the domestic service provides the water supply for the automatic sprinkler system, the supply shall be in accordance with this section.
A single combination water supply shall be allowed provided that the domestic demand is added to the sprinkler demand as required by NFPA 13R.
Fire hose threads and fittings used in connection with automatic sprinkler systems shall be as prescribed by the fire code official.
Fire department connections for automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with Section 912.
Limited area sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with the standards listed in Section 903.3.1 except as provided in Sections 903.3.8.1 through 903.3.8.5.
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Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a building with an automatic wet standpipe system, sprinklers shall be supplied by the standpipe system. Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a building without an automatic wet standpipe system, water shall be permitted to be supplied by the plumbing system provided that the plumbing system is capable of simultaneously supplying domestic and sprinkler demands.
Control valves shall not be installed between the water supply and sprinklers unless the valves are of an indicating type that are supervised or secured in the open position.
Where concealed sprinkler heads are used, cover plates shall have a brass, chrome or other unpainted metallic finish.
Valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and waterflow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit.
Exceptions:
- Automatic sprinkler systems protecting Group R-5 occupancies.
- Limited area sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8.
- Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
- Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
All valves in supply pipes to automatic sprinkler systems shall be secured open.
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Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to a supervising station.
Exceptions:
- Underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility are not required to be monitored.
- Backflow prevention device test valves located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall be locked in the open position. In occupancies required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.
An electric bell, located on the exterior of the building above a fire department connection, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. The bell shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
A sign shall be placed at a conspicuous location near the bell and shall state: "SPRINKLER ALARM—WHEN BELL RINGS CALL FIRE OR POLICE DEPARTMENT."
Supervised indicating control valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings.
Sprinkler systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
14B-9-904 The provisions of Section 904 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official. As a condition of approval, the fire code official may require signs indicating the type of alternative automatic fire-extinguishing system be installed in prominent locations at each building entrance.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed for automatic sprinkler systems or by other requirements of this code.
Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code or Chicago Mechanical Code to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.
Electrical wiring shall be in accordance with the Chicago Electrical Code.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.11.1. Where more than one hazard could be simultaneously involved in fire due to their proximity, all hazards shall be protected by a single system designed to protect all hazards that could become involved.
Exception: Multiple systems shall be permitted to be installed if they are designed to operate simultaneously.
Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents and other features necessary for proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.
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Where alarms are required to indicate the operation of automatic fire-extinguishing systems, distinctive audible and visible alarms and warning signs shall be provided to warn of pending agent discharge. Where exposure to automatic-extinguishing agents poses a hazard to persons and a delay is required to ensure the evacuation of occupants before agent discharge, a separate warning signal shall be provided to alert occupants once agent discharge has begun. Audible signals shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
Where a building fire alarm system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72.
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the provisions of this section prior to acceptance.
Prior to conducting final acceptance tests, all of the following items shall be inspected:
- Hazard specification for consistency with design hazard.
- Type, location and spacing of automatic- and manual-initiating devices.
- Size, placement and position of nozzles or discharge orifices.
- Location and identification of audible and visible alarm devices.
- Identification of devices with proper designations.
- Operating instructions.
Notification appliances, connections to fire alarm systems and connections to approved supervising stations shall be tested in accordance with this section and Section 907 to verify proper operation.
The audibility and visibility of notification appliances signaling agent discharge or system operation, where required, shall be verified.
Connections to protected premises and supervising station fire alarm systems shall be tested to verify proper identification and retransmission of alarms from automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 17A and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Dry-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 17 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Foam-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 11 and NFPA 16 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 12 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Halogenated extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 12A and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 2001 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
Automatic water mist systems shall be permitted in applications that are consistent with the applicable listing or approvals and shall comply with Sections 904.11.1 through 904.11.3.
Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 904.11.1.1 through 904.11.1.4.
Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 750 and the manufacturer's instructions.
Automatic water mist systems shall be automatically actuated.
Connections to a potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the Chicago Plumbing Code.
Where a secondary water supply is required for an automatic sprinkler system, an automatic water mist system shall be provided with a secondary water supply.
Supervision and alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.
Monitoring shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
Alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.2.
Floor control valves shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.3.
Automatic water mist systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
The automatic fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust systems of the type and arrangement protected. Preengineered automatic dry- and wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in accordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled for the intended application. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, NFPA 96, its listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the referenced standard indicated, as follows:
- Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12.
- Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.
- Automatic water mist systems, NFPA 750.
- Foam-water sprinkler system or foam-water spray systems, NFPA 16.
- Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17.
- Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17A.
Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested in accordance with UL 710B and listed, labeled and installed in accordance with the Chicago Mechanical Code.
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A manual actuation device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the cooking area not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaust system. The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than 48 inches (1200 mm) or less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the floor and shall clearly identify the hazard protected. The manual actuation shall require a maximum force of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximum movement of 14 inches (356 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be required to be equipped with manual actuation means.
The actuation of the fire suppression system shall automatically shut down the fuel or electrical power supply to the cooking equipment. The fuel and electrical supply reset shall be manual.
Where carbon dioxide systems are used, there shall be a nozzle at the top of the ventilating duct. Additional nozzles that are symmetrically arranged to give uniform distribution shall be installed within vertical ducts exceeding 20 feet (6096 mm) and horizontal ducts exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Dampers shall be installed at either the top or the bottom of the duct and shall be arranged to operate automatically upon activation of the fire-extinguishing system. Where the damper is installed at the top of the duct, the top nozzle shall be immediately below the damper. Automatic carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems shall be sufficiently sized to protect against all hazards venting through a common duct simultaneously.
Commercial-type cooking equipment protected by an automatic carbon dioxide-extinguishing system shall be arranged to shut off the ventilation system upon activation.
Automatic sprinkler systems protecting commercial-type cooking equipment shall be supplied from a separate, indicating-type control valve that is identified. Access to the control valve shall be provided.
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Sprinklers used for the protection of fryers shall be tested in accordance with UL 199E, listed for that application and installed in accordance with their listing.
Cooktops and ranges installed in the following occupancies shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.13.1:
- In Group I-1 occupancies where domestic cooking facilities are installed in accordance with Section 420.8.
- In Group I-2, Condition 1 occupancies where domestic cooking facilities are installed in accordance with Section 407.2.6.
Cooktops and ranges shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.13.1.1 or 904.13.1.2.
The domestic recirculating or exterior vented cooking hood provided over the cooktop or range shall be equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with the following:
- The automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be of a type recognized for protection of domestic cooking equipment. Preengineered automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 300A and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
- Manual actuation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided in accordance with Section 904.12.1.
- Interconnection of the fuel and electric power supply shall be in accordance with Section 904.12.2.
Cooktops and ranges shall include burners that have been tested and listed to prevent ignition of cooking oil with burners turned on to their maximum heat settings and allowed to operate for 30 minutes.
Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, periodically inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Sections 901 and 904.4, NFPA 2010, and in accordance with their listing.
Such devices and appurtenances shall be listed and installed in compliance with manufacturer's instructions.
14B-9-905 The provisions of Section 905 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14. Fire department connections for standpipe systems shall be in accordance with Section 912.
Where wet standpipes are installed in buildings that are 80 feet (24.4 m) or less in building height and the building is protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the water supply for the building may be designed to provide 100 pounds per square inch (689 kPa) pressure with 500 gallons per minute (31.6 L/s) flowing from the two hydraulically most remote outlets in the standpipe system. The standpipe system shall be designed for full standpipe flow in accordance with NFPA 14.
In buildings where the floor level of the highest story is more than 275 feet (83.8 m) above grade plane, two or more separate standpipe systems shall be provided. The lowest standpipe system shall serve the portion up to and including the story which is 275 feet (83.8 m) or less above grade plane. Above 275 feet (83.8 m) additional standpipe systems shall be provided to serve zones of not more than 20 stories each.
In buildings where the floor level of the highest story is more than 275 feet (83.8 m) above grade plane, individual standpipe systems, as required by Section 905.2.1, shall be supplied by two or more separate risers from the zone fire pump located in the lowest story of the building, except that the number of express risers shall not exceed the number of risers serving that zone; or by individual fire pumps located on the lowest story of each zone taking suction under head from a tank automatically filled by two or more risers from the adjacent lower zone. Such a tank shall have a capacity sufficient to supply the largest pump in the zone at its rated capacity for at least 30 minutes but not less than 10,000 gallons (37 854 L).
Where the pressure at nozzles is more than 65 pounds per square inch (448 kN/m2), the 1 1/2-inch hose valve shall be provided with a device or disk to limit the force of the hose stream to 90 pounds (0.4 kN) so that the nozzle can be safely handled by one person.
Standpipe systems shall be installed where required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.8. Standpipe systems are allowed to be combined with automatic sprinkler systems.
Exception: Standpipe systems are not required in Group R-2, R-3, R-4 and R-5 occupancies not more than four stories above grade plane.
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Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout buildings which exceed 55 feet in building height or where four or more stories are above grade plane or two or more stories are basements.
Exceptions:
- Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
- [Reserved]
- [Reserved]
- Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in parking garages and parking facilities that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose connections are located as required for Class II standpipes in accordance with Section 905.5.
Class I automatic wet standpipes shall be provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons.
Exceptions:
- Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces.
- Class I manual wet standpipes are allowed in buildings that are not high-rise buildings.
Stages greater than 1,000 square feet in area (93 m2) shall be equipped with a Class III wet standpipe system with 11/2-inch and 21/2-inch (38 mm and 64 mm) hose connections on each side of the stage.
Exception: Where the building or area is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, a 11/2-inch (38 mm) hose connection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13 or in accordance with NFPA 14 for Class II or III standpipes.
Underground buildings shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipe system.
Standpipes in marinas and boatyards shall comply with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Buildings or structures that have vegetative roofs, rooftop gardens, landscaped roofs or occupiable rooftops and that are equipped with a standpipe system shall have the standpipe system extended to the roof level on which the vegetative roof, rooftop garden, landscaped roof or occupiable rooftop is located.
Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
- In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above and below grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at the floor landing.
- [Reserved]
- In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
- [Reserved]
- Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), a hose connection shall be located to serve the roof or at the highest landing of an interior exit stairway with access to the roof provided in accordance with Section 1011.12.
- Where the most remote portion of a nonsprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered floor or story is more than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a hose connection, the fire code official is authorized to require that additional hose connections be provided in approved locations.
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Risers and laterals of Class I standpipe systems not located within an interior exit stairway shall be protected by a degree of fire resistance equal to that required for vertical enclosures in the building in which they are located.
Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, laterals that are not located within an interior exit stairway are not required to be enclosed within fire-resistance-rated construction.
In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
Class II standpipe hose connections located so that all portions of the building are within 30 feet (9144 mm) of a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose. Class II standpipe hose connections shall be located where they will have ready access.
In Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies having occupant loads exceeding 1,000 persons, hose connections shall be located on each side of any stage, on each side of the rear of the auditorium, on each side of the balcony and on each tier of dressing rooms.
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Fire-resistance-rated protection of risers and laterals of Class II standpipe systems is not required.
A minimum 1-inch (25 mm) hose shall be allowed to be used for hose stations in light-hazard occupancies where investigated and listed for this service and where permitted by the fire code official.
Class III standpipe systems shall have hose connections located as required for Class I standpipes in Section 905.4 and shall have Class II hose connections as required in Section 905.5.
Risers and laterals of Class III standpipe systems shall be protected as required for Class I systems in accordance with Section 905.4.1.
In buildings where more than one Class III standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.
Cabinets containing fire-fighting equipment such as standpipes, fire hoses, fire extinguishers or fire department valves shall not be blocked from use or obscured from view.
Cabinets shall be identified by a permanently attached sign with letters not less than 2 inches (51 mm) high in a color that contrasts with the background color, indicating the equipment contained therein.
Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14.
Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal at the supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall be transmitted to the control unit. All valves in supply pipes to standpipe systems shall be secured open.
Exceptions:
- Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility do not require supervision.
- Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system.
Standpipe systems required during construction and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3311.
The fire code official is authorized to require locking caps on the outlets on dry standpipes where the responding fire department carries key wrenches for the removal that are compatible with locking FDC connection caps.
14B-9-906 The provisions of Section 906 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in all of the following locations:
- Exceptions:
- In Group R-2 occupancies, portable fire extinguishers shall be required only in locations specified in Items 2 through 6 where each dwelling unit is provided with a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 1-A:10-B:C.
- In Group E occupancies. portable fire extinguishers shall be required only in locations specified in Items 2 through 6 where each classroom is provided with a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 2-A:20-B:C.
- In Group R-2 occupancies not more than three stories above grade plane and having a floor area not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279 m2).
- In one-story buildings of B, F, M, or S occupancy having a building area not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279 m2).
- Within 30 feet (9144 mm) distance of travel from commercial cooking equipment and from domestic cooking equipment in Group I-1; I-2, Condition 1; and R-2 college dormitory occupancies.
- In areas where flammable or combustible liquids are stored, used or dispensed.
- On each floor of structures under construction, except Group R-3, R-4 and R-5 occupancies, in accordance with Chapter 33.
- [Reserved]
- Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to laboratories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where required by the fire code official.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected and installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 10.
The size and distribution of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.3.1 through 906.3.4.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS A FIRE HAZARDS
| LIGHT (Low) HAZARD OCCUPANCY | ORDINARY (Moderate) HAZARD OCCUPANCY | EXTRA (High) HAZARD OCCUPANCY | |
| Minimum-rated single extinguisher | 2-Ac | 2-A | 4-Aa |
| Maximum floor area per unit of A | 3,000 square feet | 1,500 square feet | 1,000 square feet |
| Maximum floor area for extinguisherb | 11,250 square feet | 11,250 square feet | 11,250 square feet |
| Maximum distance of travel to extinguisher | 75 feet | 75 feet | 75 feet |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929m2, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
- Two 21/2-gallon water-type extinguishers shall be deemed the equivalent of one 4-A rated extinguisher.
- Annex E.3.3 of NFPA 10 provides more details concerning application of the maximum floor area criteria.
- Two water-type extinguishers each with a 1-A rating shall be deemed the equivalent of one 2-A rated extinguisher for Light (Low) Hazard Occupancies.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS WITH DEPTHS LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 0.25 INCHa
| TYPE OF HAZARD | BASIC MINIMUM EXTINGUISHER RATING | MAXIMUM DISTANCE OF TRAVEL TO EXTINGUISHERS (feet) |
| Light (Low) | 5-B 10-B | 30 50 |
| Ordinary (Moderate) | 10-B 20-B | 30 50 |
| Extra (High) | 40-B 80-B | 30 50 |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
- For requirements on water-soluble flammable liquids and alternative sizing criteria, see Section 5.5 of NFPA 10.
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The minimum sizes and distribution of portable fire extinguishers for occupancies that involve primarily Class A fire hazards shall comply with Table 906.3(1).
Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with depths less than or equal to 0.25-inch (6.4 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with Table 906.3(2).
Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with a depth of greater than 0.25-inch (6.4 mm) shall be selected and placed in accordance with NFPA 10.
Portable fire extinguishers for Class C fire hazards shall be selected and placed on the basis of the anticipated Class A or B hazard.
Portable fire extinguishers for occupancies involving combustible metals shall be selected and placed in accordance with NFPA 10.
Fire extinguishers provided for the protection of cooking equipment shall be of a type compatible with the automatic fire-extinguishing system agent. Cooking equipment involving solid fuels or vegetable or animal oils and fats shall be protected by a Class K-rated portable extinguisher in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be located in conspicuous locations where they will have ready access and be immediately available for use. These locations shall be along normal paths of travel, unless the fire code official determines that the hazard posed indicates the need for placement away from normal paths of travel.
Portable fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view. Where a fire extinguisher is likely to be obscured by piles of stock, lumber or otherwise, a sign shall be installed and maintained which will indicate the location of the fire extinguisher in a manner legible at a distance of at least 50 feet (15.2 m).
Hand-held portable fire extinguishers, not housed in cabinets, shall be installed on the hangers or brackets supplied. Hangers or brackets shall be securely anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Cabinets used to house portable fire extinguishers shall not be locked.
Exceptions:
- Where portable fire extinguishers subject to malicious use or damage are provided with a means of ready access.
- In Group I-3 occupancies and in mental health areas in Group I-2 occupancies, access to portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be locked or to be located in staff locations provided that the staff has keys.
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Portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor.
Hand-held portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that their tops are not more than 3.5 feet (1067 mm) above the floor.
The clearance between the floor and the bottom of installed hand-held portable fire extinguishers shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm).
Wheeled fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located in a designated location.
14B-9-907 The provisions of Section 907 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
Amended Coun. J. 6-25-21, p. 32180.
This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.
Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the Chicago Electrical Code and the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Shop drawings for fire alarm systems shall be prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 and submitted for a separate permit prior to system installation.
Systems and components shall be listed for the purpose for which they are installed.
Occupant notification appliances shall be red. Where approved by the fire code official, occupant notification appliances may be concealed until activated.
A fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box at each exit on the level of exit discharge shall be provided to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of manual fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed at each exit on the level of exit discharge.
Exception: The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service.
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A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate in accordance with Section 907.5 upon sprinkler water flow.
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A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
- The combined Group B occupant load of all floors is 300 or more.
- The Group B occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
- The fire area contains an ambulatory care facility.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate in accordance with Section 907.5 upon sprinkler water flow.
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Fire areas containing ambulatory care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces, including public corridors and elevator lobbies.
A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E occupancies. Where automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group F occupancies where both of the following conditions exist:
- The Group F occupancy is two or more stories in height.
- The Group F occupancy has a combined occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate in accordance with Section 907.5 upon sprinkler water flow.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.
Exception: Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private operating mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is permitted by the fire code official and staff evacuation responsibilities are included in the fire safety and evacuation plan required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
In Group I-1 occupancies, an automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5.
Exceptions:
- For Group I-1, Condition 1 occupancies, smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms, heat alarms and heat detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.10.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors in Group I-2, Condition 1 facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the corridors by Section 407.2. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.4. Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies shall be equipped with an automatic smoke detection system as required in Section 407.
Exceptions:
- Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain sleeping units where such units are provided with smoke detectors that comply with UL 268. Such detectors shall provide a visual display on the corridor side of each sleeping unit and shall provide an audible and visual alarm at the care providers' station attending each unit.
- Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain sleeping units where sleeping unit doors are equipped with automatic door-closing devices with integral smoke detectors on the unit sides installed in accordance with their listing, provided that the integral detectors perform the required alerting function.
Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.
Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate a private operating mode fire alarm signal that automatically notifies staff throughout the facility.
Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where manual fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.
Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally open to residents.
Exceptions:
- Other approved smoke detection arrangements providing equivalent protection, including, but not limited to, placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind protective guards listed for the purpose, are allowed where necessary to prevent damage or tampering.
- Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3 as described in Section 308.
- Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping units with four or fewer occupants in smoke compartments that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
- The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.
- The Group M occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate in accordance with Section 907.5 upon sprinkler water flow.
Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R- 1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
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An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
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.
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms, heat alarms and heat detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.10.
Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.9.3.
A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where the building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will activate in accordance with Section 907.5 upon a sprinkler water flow.
- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an automatic 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 1027.6, Exception 3.
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms, heat alarms
and heat detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.10.
Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.10.1 through 907.2.10.7 and NFPA 72. Listed heat detectors complying with UL 521 or heat alarms complying with UL 539 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.10 and 907.2.10.8 and NFPA 72.
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Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
- In sleeping areas.
- In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
- In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
- At the uppermost ceiling of each interior exit stairway.
Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 and I-1 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
- On the ceiling or wall outside of and within 15 feet (4572 mm) of each room used for sleeping purposes.
- In each room used for sleeping purposes.
- In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
- At the uppermost ceiling of each interior exit stairway.
Smoke alarms shall not be installed in the following locations unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm in a location required by Section 907.2.10.1 or 907.2.10.2:
- Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
- Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall not be installed less than 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
- Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 6 feet (1829 mm) horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
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Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by Section 907.2.10.1 or 907.2.10.2.
Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R or I-1 occupancies, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
In new construction, required smoke alarms, heat alarms and heat detectors shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where 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 system in accordance with Section 2702. Smoke alarms, heat alarms and heat detectors 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.
Exception: Smoke alarms, heat alarms and heat detectors are not required to be equipped with battery backup where they are connected to an emergency electrical system that complies with Section 2702.
Smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 and provided as part of the building fire alarm system shall be an acceptable alternative to single- and multiple-station smoke alarms and shall comply with the following:
- The fire alarm system shall comply with all applicable requirements in Section 907.
- Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall initiate alarm notification in the dwelling unit or sleeping unit in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
- Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall not activate alarm notification appliances outside of the dwelling unit or sleeping unit, provided that a supervisory signal is generated and monitored in accordance with Section 907.6.6.
A heat detector or heat alarm shall be installed in a private garage that is attached to or directly below a dwelling unit or sleeping unit and shall comply with the following:
- The heat alarm or heat detector shall be rated for the ambient environment.
- The heat alarm or heat detector shall either be interconnected with the smoke alarms within the attached dwelling unit or sleeping unit or the heat detector shall be connected to an audible occupant notification device located within the dwelling unit or sleeping unit and within 20 feet of the door nearest to the private garage and additional audible occupant notification devices, as necessary, so that occupant notification is clearly audible in all sleeping rooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed. Audible occupant notification is not required within the private garage.
- Heat alarms and heat detectors shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in special amusement buildings in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.3.
Activation of any single smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler system or any other automatic fire detection device shall immediately activate an audible and visible alarm at the building at a constantly attended location from which emergency action can be initiated, including the capability of manual initiation of requirements in Section 907.2.11.2.
The activation of two or more smoke detectors, a single smoke detector equipped with an alarm verification feature, the automatic sprinkler system or other approved fire detection device shall automatically do all of the following:
- Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) at the walking surface level.
- Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
- Activate directional exit markings that will become apparent in an emergency.
- Alarm signals shall produce a sound that is distinctive from other sounds used during normal operation.
High-rise buildings shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.1 and voice communication systems in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
Exceptions:
- Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 412 and 907.2.21.
- Parking facilities in accordance with Section 406.9.
- Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1.
- Low-hazard special industrial occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
- [Reserved]
- In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound at a constantly attended location and private mode signaling shall be broadcast throughout the facility.
Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.12.1.1 and 907.2.12.1.2.
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Area smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall activate the occupant notification appliances in accordance with Section 907.5. In addition to smoke detectors required by Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.9, smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
- In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room that is not provided with sprinkler protection.
- In each elevator machine room, machinery space, control room and control space and in elevator lobbies.
- Where enclosed elevator lobbies are not provided, in corridors adjoining elevators.
Voice communication systems shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.12.2.1 through 907.2.12.2.3.
A two-way fire department communication system shall be provided to operate between a fire command center complying with Section 911 and emergency two-way stations located at not less than every fifth level, every landing for a level numbered with a multiple of 5 and the uppermost landing within every interior exit stairway.
A selective (multiple-channel) one-way > communication system shall be provided to operate between a fire command center complying with Section 911 and the following areas:
- Elevators cars.
- Elevator lobbies.
- Within interior exit stairways at every fifth level and every landing for a level numbered with a multiple of 5.
- Office areas exceeding 5,000 square feet (465 m2).
- Corridors, at intervals not exceeding 75 feet (22.9 m).
- Outside of doors leading to exit stairways.
- Inside the main entrance of each dwelling unit and sleeping unit.
- Parking garages exceeding 5,000 square feet (465 m2).
The two-way fire department communication system may be combined with the one-way system where approved by the fire code official.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Aerosol product rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosol products shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system where required by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Where a smoke control system is installed in an underground building in accordance with this code, automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.17.1.
Not fewer than one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in all of the following areas:
- Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.
- Elevator lobbies.
- The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
- Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air-inlet openings.
Activation of the smoke control system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.
Where the lowest occupiable space is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system.
An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in airport control towers in accordance with Sections 907.2.21.1 and 907.2.21.2.
Exception: Audible appliances shall not be installed within the control tower cab.
Airport traffic control towers with multiple exits and equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the following locations:
- Airport traffic control cab.
- Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
- Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
- Outside each opening into interior exit stairways.
- Along the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.
- Outside each opening into the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.
Airport traffic control towers with a single exit or where sprinklers are not installed throughout shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the following locations:
- Airport traffic control cab.
- Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
- Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
- Office spaces incidental to the tower operation.
- Lounges for employees, including sanitary facilities.
- Means of egress.
- Utility shafts where access to smoke detectors can be provided.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing stationary storage battery systems as required in Section 1206.2 of the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing capacitor energy storage systems as required by Section 1206.3 of the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
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Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the Chicago Mechanical Code. In facilities that are required to be monitored by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exception: In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in a prominent location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in a prominent location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
Where special locking systems are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Sections 1010.1.9.7 or 1010.1.9.8, an automatic detection system shall be installed as required by that section.
Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator emergency operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3 of the Chicago Conveyance Device Code and NFPA 72.
The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish the fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.
Where manual or automatic alarm initiation is required as part of a fire alarm system, the initiating devices shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1 through 907.4.3.1.
In areas that are not continuously occupied, a single smoke detector shall be provided at the location of each fire alarm control unit, notification appliance circuit power extenders, and supervising station transmitting equipment.
Exception: Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of a smoke detector, a heat detector shall be permitted.
Where a manual fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by fire alarm boxes installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.2.1 through 907.4.2.6.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. In buildings not protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that the distance of travel to the nearest box does not exceed 100 feet (30.5 m).
The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) and not more than 48 inches (1372 mm) measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by a supervising station, a permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved. Protective covers shall not project more than that permitted by Section 1003.3.3.
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided with ready access, unobstructed, unobscured and visible at all times.
Where an automatic smoke detection system is required it shall utilize smoke detectors unless ambient conditions prohibit such an installation. In spaces where smoke detectors cannot be utilized due to ambient conditions, automatic heat detectors shall be permitted.
For conditions other than specific fire safety functions noted in Section 907.3, in areas where ambient conditions prohibit the installation of smoke detectors, an automatic sprinkler system installed in such areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and that is connected to the fire alarm system shall be accepted as automatic heat detection.
A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the fire alarm control unit and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Sections 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3. Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
- Automatic fire detectors.
- Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.
- Manual fire alarm boxes.
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Fire alarm systems in the following buildings shall be provided with a presignal feature:
- Group I occupancies where the floor area of any story exceeds 8,000 square feet (743 m2).
- Group I occupancies in buildings with more than three stories.
- High-rise buildings.
A presignal feature shall not be installed in other building types unless approved by the fire code official. Where a presignal feature is provided, a signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended location acceptable to the fire code official so that occupant notification can be activated in the event of fire or other emergency.
Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.
Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and emit a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm.
Exceptions:
- Audible alarm notification appliances are not required in critical care areas of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.2.6, Exception 2.
- A visible alarm notification appliance installed in a nurses' control station or other continuously attended staff location in a Group I-2, Condition 2 suite shall be an acceptable alternative to the installation of audible alarm notification appliances throughout the suite in Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.2.6, Exception 2.
- Where provided, audible notification appliances located in each enclosed occupant evacuation elevator lobby in accordance with Section 3008.9.1 shall be connected to a separate notification zone for manual paging only.
The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of not less than 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building.
The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.
Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.3.
Exceptions:
- Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
- Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Chapter 2.
- Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.
- Visual alarm notification appliances are not required in critical care areas of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.2.6, Exception 2.
Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, visible alarms shall be provided at time of initial installation.
Habitable spaces in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group I-1 and R-1 occupancies in accordance with Table 907.5.2.3.2 shall be provided with visible alarm notification. Visible alarms shall be activated by the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.
VISIBLE ALARMS
| NUMBER OF SLEEP UNITS | SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS WITH VISIBLE ALARMS |
| 2 to 25 | 2 |
| 26 to 50 | 4 |
| 51 to 75 | 7 |
| 76 to 100 | 9 |
| 101 to 150 | 12 |
| 151 to 200 | 14 |
| 201 to 300 | 17 |
| 301 to 400 | 20 |
| 401 to 500 | 22 |
| 501 to 1,000 | 5% of total |
| 1,001 and over | 50 plus 3 for each 100 over 1,000 |
In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, each story that contains dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with Chapter 10 of ICC A117.1. Such capability shall accommodate wired or wireless equipment. The future capability shall include one of the following:
- The interconnection of the building fire alarm system with the unit smoke alarms.
- The replacement of audible appliances with combination audible/visible appliances.
- The future extension of the existing wiring from the unit smoke alarm locations to required locations for visible appliances.
Visible alarm notification appliances, arranged so the flashing light beam is visible in all occupiable spaces within the unit, shall be installed by the owner within dwelling units and sleeping units on an as-needed basis at the request of an occupant with a disability.
A fire alarm system shall be installed and monitored in accordance with Sections 907.6.1 through 907.6.6.2 and NFPA 72.
Wiring shall comply with the requirements of the Chicago Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.
The primary and secondary power supply for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Back-up power for single-station and multiple-station smoke alarms as required in Section 907.2.10.6.
The fire alarm system shall identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level where applicable and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory status, as appropriate.
Exceptions:
- Fire alarm systems in single-story buildings less than 22,500 square feet (2090 m2) in area.
- Fire alarm systems that only include manual fire alarm boxes, waterflow initiating devices and not more than 10 additional alarm-initiating devices.
- Special initiating devices that do not support individual device identification.
- Fire alarm systems or devices that are replacing existing equipment.
The initiating device status shall be annunciated at an on-site location acceptable to the fire code official.
A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided in a location acceptable to the fire code official. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible-alarm silencing switch.
In high-rise buildings, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for each of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:
- Smoke detectors.
- Sprinkler waterflow devices.
- Manual fire alarm boxes.
- Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems.
Access shall be provided to each fire alarm device and notification appliance for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the Chicago Fire Prevention Code shall be monitored by a supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:
- Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.10.
- Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
- Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R-5 occuancies.
Automatic telephone-dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number.
Termination of fire alarm monitoring services shall be in accordance with Section 901.6.
Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each device and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the smoke alarm provisions of NFPA 72.
A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the permit shall be provided to the fire code official.
The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
14B-9-908 The provisions of Section 908 of IBC are not adopted.
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided in accordance with Section 415.5.
14B-9-909 The provisions of Section 909 of IBC are not adopted. The following language is adopted as Section 909:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
Where required by Section 404.5, atriums shall be provided with a smoke control system meeting the following requirements:
- If the volume of the atrium does not exceed 600,000 cubic feet (16 990 m3), the exhaust system shall provide not less than 6 air changes per hour.
- If the volume of the atrium exceeds 600,000 cubic feet (16 990 m3), the exhaust system shall provide not less than 4 air changes per hour.
- Supply openings shall be sized for at least one-half the exhaust capacity.
- Exhaust shall be at the top of the atrium and intake at the bottom.
- Smoke detectors shall be provided at the ceiling of the atrium and at the perimeter of the atrium on each floor within 15 feet (4572 mm).
- The smoke control system shall have completely automatic control. The automatic-control sequences shall be initiated by activation of either the automatic sprinkler system, or smoke detectors in the atrium area.
Buildings, or portions thereof, required by this code to comply with this section shall not be issued a certificate of occupancy until such time that the fire code official determines that the provisions of this section have been fully complied with and that the fire department has received satisfactory instruction on the operation, both automatic and manual, of the system and a written maintenance program complying with the requirements of the Chicago Fire Prevention Code has been submitted to and accepted by the fire code official.
Exception: Where phased construction is permitted, a temporary certificate of occupancy shall be allowed provided that those portions of the building to be occupied meet the requirements of this section and that the remainder does not pose a significant hazard to the safety of the proposed occupants or adjacent buildings.
Optional smoke control systems shall comply with Appendix S.
14B-9-910 The provisions of Section 910 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Where required by this code, smoke and heat vents or mechanical smoke removal systems shall conform to the requirements of this section.
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Smoke and heat vents or a mechanical smoke removal system shall be installed as required by Sections 910.2.1 through 910.2.3.
Exceptions:
- Frozen food warehouses used solely for storage of Class I and II commodities where protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
- Smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers.
- Smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50 (m • s)1/2 or less that are listed to control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers.
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A mechanical smoke removal system installed in accordance with Section 910.4 shall be installed in buildings and portions thereof containing high-piled combustible storage.
Automatic smoke and heat vents in accordance with Section 910.3 shall be installed on the topmost occupied story of exhibition areas with a floor area in excess of 10,000 square feet (929 m2). Where the upper surface of a story containing an exhibition area is not a roof assembly, a mechanical smoke removal system in accordance with Section 910.4 shall be installed.
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Smoke and heat vents shall be listed and labeled to indicate compliance with UL 793 or FM 4430.
Smoke and heat vents shall be located 20 feet (6096 mm) or more from adjacent lot lines and fire walls and 10 feet (3048 mm) or more from fire barriers. Vents shall be uniformly located within the roof in the areas of the building where the vents are required to be installed by Section 910.2 with consideration given to roof pitch, sprinkler location and structural members. Vents shall be spaced no greater than 100 feet (30.5 m) apart, on center.
The required aggregate area of smoke and heat vents shall be calculated as follows:
For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1:
(Equation 9-3)where:
For unsprinklered buildings:
(Equation 9-4)Upcodes Diagrams
The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Exhaust fans that are part of a mechanical smoke removal system shall be rated for operation at 221°F (105°C). Exhaust fan motors shall be located outside of the exhaust fan air stream.
The mechanical smoke removal system shall be sized to exhaust the building at a minimum rate of two air changes per hour based on the volume of the building or portion thereof without contents. The capacity of each exhaust fan shall not exceed 30,000 cubic feet per minute (14.2 m3/s).
The mechanical smoke removal system shall be activated by manual controls only.
Manual controls shall be located where they are able to be accessed by the fire service from an exterior door of the building and separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
Wiring for operation and control of mechanical smoke removal systems shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect in accordance with Section 701.12E of the Chicago Electrical Code and be protected against interior fire exposure to temperatures in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes.
Where building air-handling and mechanical smoke removal systems are combined or where independent building air-handling systems are provided, fans shall automatically shut down in accordance with the Chicago Mechanical Code. The manual controls provided for the smoke removal system shall have the capability to override the automatic shutdown of fans that are part of the smoke removal system.
Smoke and heat vents and mechanical smoke removal systems shall be maintained in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
14B-9-911 The provisions of Section 911 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Where required by other sections of this code and in buildings classified as high-rise buildings by this code, a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and shall comply with Sections 911.1.1 through 911.1.6.
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The location and accessibility of the fire command center shall be reviewed and accepted by the fire code official. The fire command center shall comply with the following criteria:
- All panels shall be located in the line of sight immediately inside the primary entrance to the building which is facing the street of the building address. The building address number shall be conspicuously displayed above or next to the primary entrance doors.
- Panels shall not be located in a separate room.
- A six foot (1829 mm) clear working space shall be provided in front of all panels.
- Panels shall be mounted vertically on a wall.
- Panels shall be mounted so that the bottom edge is no less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor and the top edge is no more than 74 inches (1880 mm) above the floor.
- Darkened, tinted or opaque glass shall not be used to cover or obscure the panels.
- Panel doors shall be completely removable from the hinges.
- Where a stairway door locking system is used, the required release switch shall be clearly marked.
- Where panel doors are locked, an elevator-type key box, containing the panel door key, shall be provided in the immediate vicinity of the panels.
- All panels shall be clearly labeled at the top to indicate the purpose or function, such as "detection," "voice communication," "elevators," or "generator."
A layout of the fire command center and all features required by this section to be contained therein shall be submitted to the fire code official for review and acceptance prior to installation.
The fire command center shall comply with NFPA 72 and shall contain all of the following features:
- [Reserved]
- The fire department communications system.
- Fire detection and alarm system annunciator.
- Annunciator unit visually indicating the location of the elevators and whether they are operational.
- Status indicators and controls for air distribution systems.
- The fire fighter's control panel required by Section 909.16 for smoke control systems installed in the building.
- Controls for unlocking interior exit stairway doors simultaneously.
- Sprinkler valve and waterflow detector display panels.
- Emergency and standby power status indicators.
- A telephone for fire department use.
- Fire pump status indicators.
- Schematic building plans indicating the typical floor plan and detailing the building core, means of egress, fire protection systems, fire fighter air replenishment system, fire-fighting equipment and fire department access and the location of fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions.
- A Building Information Card that contains, information specified in rules adopted by the fire code official.
- [Reserved]
- Generator supervision devices, manual start and transfer features.
- Public address system, where specifically required by other sections of this code.
- Elevator fire recall switch in accordance with the Chicago Conveyance Device Code.
- Elevator emergency or standby power selector switch(es), where emergency or standby power is provided.
14B-9-912 The provisions of Section 912 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Amended Coun. J. 10-7-20, p. 21791.
With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so located that the fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the system will not obstruct access to buildings for other fire apparatus. At least one fire department connection shall be provided on each street exposure where the building is located closer than 100 feet (30.5 m) to the curb. If any street exposure is more than 250 feet (76.2 m) long, there shall be two fire department connections at least 200 feet (61.0 m) apart. Where a building has no street frontage, the fire department connection shall be located at the main entrance. The location of fire department connections shall be reviewed and accepted by the fire code official.
Exceptions:
- Where a building has more than two street exposures, fire department connections are only required for two of the street exposures.
- Where two adjacent street exposures have a combined length not greater than 250 feet (76.2 m), one fire department connection shall be allowed.
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Fire department connections shall be located on the street side of buildings or facing fire apparatus access roads, fully visible and recognizable from the street, fire apparatus access road or nearest point of fire department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the fire code official.
On existing buildings, wherever the fire department connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire department connection shall be indicated by a sign mounted on the street front or on the side of the building. Such sign shall have the letters "FDC" not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high and words in letters not less than 2 inches (51 mm) high or an arrow to indicate the location. Such signs shall be subject to the approval of the fire code official.
Fire hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall be compatible with fire department hose threads.
Immediate access to fire department connections shall be maintained at all times and without obstruction by fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other fixed or moveable object.
Exception: Fences, where provided with an access gate equipped with a sign complying with the legend requirements of this section and a means of emergency operation. The gate and the means of emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.
The fire code official is authorized to require breakaway caps on fire department connections for water-based fire protection systems.
A working space with a radius of 5 feet (1524 mm) shall be provided and maintained in front of wall-mounted fire department connections and around the circumference of free-standing fire department connections, except as otherwise required or approved by the fire code official.
Where fire department connections are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
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A metal sign with raised letters not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in size shall be mounted on all fire department connections serving automatic sprinklers, standpipes or fire pump connections. Such signs shall read: AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS or STANDPIPES or TEST CONNECTION or a combination thereof as applicable. Where the fire department connection does not serve the entire building, a sign shall be provided indicating the portions of the building served.
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The potable water supply to automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems shall be protected against backflow as required by the Chicago Plumbing Code.
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14B-9-913 The provisions of Section 913 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 20.
The fire pump, driver and controller shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism and other adverse conditions.
Fire pumps shall be located in rooms that are separated from all other areas of the building by 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
Exceptions:
- In buildings less than 55 feet (16.8 m) in building height, separation by 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or 1-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, shall be permitted in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
- Separation is not required for fire pumps physically separated in accordance with NFPA 20.
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Cables used for survivability of circuits supplying fire pumps shall be protected using one of the following methods:
- Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
- Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.
- Construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
Suitable means shall be provided for maintaining the temperature of a pump room or pump house, where required, above 40°F (5°C).
Temperature of the pump room, pump house or area where engines are installed shall never be less than the minimum recommended by the engine manufacturer. The engine manufacturer's recommendations for oil heaters shall be followed.
Where provided, the fire pump suction, discharge and bypass valves, and isolation valves on the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be supervised open by one of the following methods:
- Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling service.
- Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
- Locking valves open.
- [Reserved]
Fire pump test outlet valves shall be supervised in the closed position.
Acceptance testing shall be done in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 20.
14B-9-914 The provisions of Section 914 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Outside openings accessible to the fire department and that open directly on a hoistway or shaftway communicating between two or more floors in a building shall be plainly marked with the word "SHAFTWAY" in red letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high on a white background. Such warning signs shall be placed so as to be readily discernible from the outside of the building.
Exception: Markings shall not be required on shaftway openings that are readily discernible as openings onto a shaftway by the construction or arrangement.
Door or window openings to a hoistway or shaftway from the interior of the building shall be plainly marked with the word "SHAFTWAY" in red letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high on a white background. Such warning signs shall be placed so as to be readily discernible.
Exception: Markings shall not be required on shaftway openings that are readily discernible as openings onto a shaftway by the construction or arrangement.
Fire protection equipment shall be clearly identified. Rooms containing controls for air-conditioning systems, sprinkler risers and valves or other fire detection, suppression or control elements shall be identified for the use of the fire department. Signs required to identify fire protection equipment and equipment location shall be constructed of durable materials, permanently installed and readily visible.
14B-9-915 The provisions of Section 915 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in new buildings in accordance with Sections 915.1.1 through 915.6. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in existing buildings in accordance with the Chicago Minimum Requirements for Existing Buildings.
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Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms that contain a fuel-burning appliance or a fuel-burning fireplace.
Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms served by a fuel-burning, forced-air furnace.
Exception: Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms if a carbon monoxide detector is provided in the first room or area served by each main duct leaving the furnace, and the carbon monoxide alarm signals are automatically transmitted to a location that is monitored at all times when the building is occupied.
Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms located in buildings that contain fuel-burning appliances or fuel-burning fireplaces.
Exceptions:
- Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms without communicating openings between the fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom.
- Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms where a carbon monoxide detector is provided in one of the following locations:
- 2.1. In a location between the fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom.
- 2.2. On the ceiling of the room containing the fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace.
Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms in buildings with attached private garages.
Exceptions:
- Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms without communicating openings between the private garage and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom.
- Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms located more than one story above or below a private garage.
- Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required where the private garage connects to the building through an open-ended corridor.
- Where a carbon monoxide detector is provided in a location between openings to a private garage and dwelling units, sleeping units or classrooms.
Where required by Section 915.1.1, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in the locations specified in Sections 915.2.1 through 915.2.3.
Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in dwelling units outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. Where a fuel-burning appliance is located within a bedroom or its attached bathroom, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed within the bedroom.
Exception: Carbon monoxide detection shall be allowed to be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping unit where the sleeping unit or its attached bathroom does not contain a fuel-burning appliance and is not served by a forced air furnace.
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Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in sleeping units.
Exception: Carbon monoxide detection shall be allowed to be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping unit where the sleeping unit or its attached bathroom does not contain a fuel-burning appliance and is not served by a forced air furnace.
Carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in classrooms in Group E and I-4 occupancies. Carbon monoxide alarm signals shall be automatically transmitted to an on-site location that is staffed by school personnel.
Exception: Carbon monoxide alarm signals shall not be required to be automatically transmitted to an on-site location that is staffed by school personnel in Group E or I-4 occupancies with an occupant load of 30 or less.
Carbon monoxide detection required by Sections 915.1 through 915.2.3 shall be provided by carbon monoxide alarms complying with Section 915.4 or carbon monoxide detection systems complying with Section 915.5.
Carbon monoxide alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source, and when primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than that required for overcurrent protection.
Exception: Where installed in buildings without commercial power, battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms shall be an acceptable alternative.
Carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed in accordance with UL 2034.
Carbon monoxide alarms shall only be installed in dwelling units and in sleeping units. They shall not be installed in locations where the code requires carbon monoxide detectors to be used.
Combination carbon monoxide/smoke alarms shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide alarms. Combination carbon monoxide/smoke alarms shall be listed in accordance with UL 2034 and UL 217.
Carbon monoxide detection systems shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide alarms and shall comply with Sections 915.5.1 through 915.5.3.
Carbon monoxide detection systems shall comply with NFPA 720. Carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed in accordance with UL 2075.
Carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in the locations specified in Section 915.2. These locations supersede the locations specified in NFPA 720.
Combination carbon monoxide/smoke detectors installed in carbon monoxide detection systems shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide detectors, provided that they are listed in accordance with UL 2075 and UL 268.
Carbon monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
14B-9-916 The provisions of Section 916 of IBC are adopted by reference with the following modifications:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
Amended Coun. J. 2-19-20, p. 14474.
Permits shall be required as set forth in the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
Documentation of the gas detection system design and equipment to be used that demonstrates compliance with the requirements of this code and the Chicago Fire Prevention Code shall be provided with the application for permit.
Gas detection system equipment shall be designed for use with the gases being detected and shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
Gas detection systems shall be permanently connected to the building electrical power supply.
Standby or emergency power shall be provided or the gas detection system shall initiate a trouble signal at a central location if the power supply is interrupted.
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Sensors shall be installed in locations where leaking gases are expected to accumulate.
Gas sampling shall be performed continuously. Sample analysis shall be processed immediately after sampling, except as follows:
- For HPM gases, sample analysis shall be performed at intervals not exceeding 30 minutes.
- For toxic gases that are not HPM, sample analysis shall be performed at intervals not exceeding 5 minutes in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
- Where a less frequent or delayed sampling interval is approved by the fire code official.
A gas detection alarm shall be initiated where any sensor detects a concentration of gas exceeding the following thresholds:
- For flammable gases, a gas concentration exceeding 25 percent of the lower flammability limit (LFL).
- For nonflammable gases, a gas concentration exceeding one-half of the IDLH, unless a different threshold is specified by the section of this code requiring a gas detection system.
Upon activation of a gas detection alarm, alarm signals or other required responses shall be as specified by the section of this code requiring a gas detection system. Audible and visible alarm signals associated with a gas detection alarm shall be distinct from fire alarm and carbon monoxide alarm signals.
Signs shall be provided adjacent to gas detection system alarm signaling devices that advise occupants of the nature of the signals and actions to take in response to the signal.
Gas sensors and gas detection systems shall not be connected to fire alarm systems unless approved by the fire code official and connected in accordance with the fire alarm equipment manufacturer's instructions.
Gas detection systems and sensors shall be inspected, tested and calibrated in accordance with the Chicago Fire Prevention Code.
14B-9-917 The provisions of Section 917 of IBC are not adopted.
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
14B-9-918 The provisions of Section 918 of IBC are not adopted.
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
14B-9-919 The following language is adopted as a new Section 919:
Added Coun. J. 4-10-19, p. 100029.
A city fire alarm box shall be placed within 100 feet (30.5 m) from the principal entrance of the following occupancies:
- Group A-1 occupancies.
- Group I occupancies.
- Group A-2, A-3 and A-4 occupancies with an occupant load of more than 1,000.
- Day care centers operating between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.Exception: Where all rooms occupied by the day care facilities and programs have a direct exterior exit.
- Group E-2 occupancies having a capacity of 100 or more children.
- Group E-1 occupancies having an occupant load of more than 100.
- Housing intended primarily for students through the undergraduate level, including apartments, dormitories and fraternity and sorority houses.
- Public utility structures.
The fire alarm systems required for the occupancies listed in Section 919.1 shall be directly connected to the city fire alarm box.
Exception: Where the fire alarm system is directly connected to a UL-listed central station fire alarm service and use of private supervisory service is not prohibited by the fire code official.
Fire alarm systems for occupancies other than those listed in Section 919.1 shall not be connected to a city fire alarm box.
Exception: Occupancies listed in Section 919.1 with an occupant load less than provided may be connected to a city fire alarm box.
The fire alarm systems of no more than one building shall be connected to any one city fire alarm box.
Exception: Fire alarm systems in a building that was permitted to be connected to a common city fire alarm box prior to July 1, 1971.