User note:
About this chapter: Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated so as to show that alterations, while not meeting new construction requirements, will improve the current existing situation. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 19 various safety parameters and the degree of code compliance for each issue.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures, including historic structures, as referenced in Section 301.3.3. The provisions of this chapter are intended to maintain or increase the current degree of public safety, health and general welfare in existing buildings while permitting, alteration, addition and change of occupancy without requiring full compliance with Chapters 6 through 12, except where compliance with other provisions of this code is specifically required in this chapter.
Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of this chapter or with one of the methods provided in Section 301.3.
Existing buildings in which there is work involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter or the provisions of Chapters 6 through 12. The provisions of Sections 1301.2.1 through 1301.2.5 shall apply to existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, F, I-2, M, R and S. These provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I-1, I-3 or I-4.
Where an existing building is changed to a new occupancy classification and this section is applicable, the provisions of this section for the new occupancy shall be used to determine compliance with this code.
Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification and that portion is separated from the remainder of the building with fire barrier or horizontal assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the International Building Code or Section R302 of the International Residential Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the portion changed shall be made to conform to the provisions of this section.
Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification and that portion is not separated from the remainder of the building with fire barriers or horizontal assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the International Building Code or Section R302 of the International Residential Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the provisions of this section which apply to each occupancy shall apply to the entire building. Where there are conflicting provisions, those requirements which secure the greater public safety shall apply to the entire building or structure.
Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the requirements of the International Building Code or the International Residential Code for new construction. The combined height and area of the existing building and the new addition shall not exceed the height and area allowed by Chapter 5 of the International Building Code. Where a fire wall that complies with Section 706 of the International Building Code is provided between the addition and the existing building, the addition shall be considered a separate building.
Upcodes Diagrams
For additions to Group E occupancies, storm shelters shall be provided in accordance with Section 1106.1.
An existing building or portion thereof shall not be altered in such a manner that results in the building being less safe or sanitary than such building is currently.
Exception: Where the current level of safety or sanitation is proposed to be reduced, the portion altered shall conform to the requirements of the International Building Code.
Where escalators are provided in below-grade transportation stations, existing and new escalators shall be permitted to have a clear width of less than 32 inches (815 mm).
For repairs, alterations, additions, and changes of occupancy to existing buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section, compliance with this section shall be accepted by the code official.
Where the code official determines that an unsafe condition exists as provided for in Section 115, such unsafe condition shall be abated in accordance with Section 115.
Buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with the International Fire Code and International Property Maintenance Code.
In flood hazard areas, buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with Section 1612 of the International Building Code, or Section R322 of the International Residential Code, as applicable if the work covered by this section constitutes substantial improvement.
For proposed work covered by this chapter, the building owner shall cause the existing building to be investigated and evaluated in accordance with the provisions of Sections 1301.4 through 1301.9.
The owner shall have a structural analysis of the existing building made to determine adequacy of structural systems for the proposed alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The analysis shall demonstrate that the building with the work completed is capable of resisting the loads specified in Chapter 16 of the International Building Code.
The results of the investigation and evaluation as required in Section 1301.4, along with proposed compliance alternatives, shall be submitted to the code official.
The code official shall determine whether the existing building, with the proposed addition, alteration, or change of occupancy, complies with the provisions of this section in accordance with the evaluation process in Sections 1301.5 through 1301.9.
Included within the fire safety category are the structural fire resistance, automatic fire detection, fire alarm, automatic sprinkler system and fire suppression system features of the facility.
Included within the means of egress category are the configuration, characteristics, and support features for means of egress in the facility.
Included within the general safety category are the fire safety parameters and the means of egress parameters.
The evaluation process specified herein shall be followed in its entirety to evaluate existing buildings in Groups A, B, E, F, M, R, S and U. For existing buildings in Group I-2, the evaluation process specified herein shall be followed and applied to each and every individual smoke compartment. Table 1301.7 shall be utilized for tabulating the results of the evaluation. References to other sections of this code or other codes indicate that compliance with those sections is required in order to gain credit in the evaluation herein outlined. In applying this section to a building with mixed occupancies, where the separation between the mixed occupancies does not qualify for any category indicated in Section 1301.6.16, the score for each occupancy shall be determined, and the lower score determined for each section of the evaluation process shall apply to the entire building, or to each smoke compartment for Group I-2 occupancies.
Where the separation between the mixed occupancies qualifies for any category indicated in Section 1301.6.16, the score for each occupancy shall apply to each portion, or smoke compartment of the building based on the occupancy of the space.
The value for building height and number of stories shall be the lesser value determined by the formula in Section 1301.6.1.1. Section 504 of the International Building Code shall be used to determine the allowable height and number of stories of the building. Subtract the actual building height from the allowable height and divide by 121/2 feet (3810 mm). Enter the height value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.1, Building Height, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. The maximum score for a building shall be 10.
The following formulas shall be used in computing the building height value.
(Equation 13-1)
(Equation 13-2)where:
AH = Allowable height in feet (mm) from Section 504 of the International Building Code.
EBH = Existing building height in feet (mm).
AS = Allowable height in stories from Section 504 of the International Building Code.
EBS = Existing building height in stories.
CF = 1 if (AH) — (EBH) is positive.
CF = Construction-type factor shown in Table 1301.6.6(2) if (AH) — (EBH) is negative.
Note: Where mixed occupancies are separated and individually evaluated as indicated in Section 1301.6, the values AH, AS, EBH and EBS shall be based on the height of the occupancy being evaluated.
The value for building area shall be determined by the formula in Section 1301.6.2.2. Section 506 of the International Building Code and the formula in Section 1301.6.2.1 shall be used to determine the allowable area of the building. Subtract the actual building area from the allowable area and divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). Enter the area value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.2, Building Area, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. In determining the area value, the maximum permitted positive value for area is 50 percent of the fire safety score as listed in Table 1301.8, Mandatory Safety Scores. Group I-2 occupancies shall be scored zero.
The following formula shall be used in computing allowable area:
(Equation 13-3)where:
Aa = Allowable building area per story (square feet).
At = Tabular allowable area factor (NS, S1, S13R, or SM value, as applicable) in accordance with Table 506.2 of the International Building Code.
NS = Tabular allowable area factor in accordance with Table 506.2 of the International Building Code for a nonsprinklered building (regardless of whether the building is sprinklered).
If = Area factor increase due to frontage as calculated in accordance with Section 506.3 of the International Building Code.
The following formula shall be used in computing the area value. Determine the area value for each occupancy floor area on a floor-by-floor basis. For each occupancy, choose the minimum area value of the set of values obtained for the particular occupancy.
(Equation 13-4)where:
i = Value for an individual separated occupancy on a floor.
n = Number of separated occupancies on a floor.
Evaluate the compartments created by fire barriers or horizontal assemblies which comply with Sections 1301.6.3.1 and 1301.6.3.2 and which are exclusive of the wall elements considered under Sections 1301.6.4 and 1301.6.5. Conforming compartments shall be figured as the net area and do not include shafts, chases, stairways, walls, or columns. Using Table 1301.6.3, determine the appropriate compartmentation value (CV) and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.3, Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
COMPARTMENTATION VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
| a Compartment size equal to or greater than 15,000 square feet | b Compartment size of 10,000 square feet | c Compartment size of 7,500 square feet | d Compartment size of 5,000 square feet | e Compartment size of 2,500 square feet or less | |
| A-1, A-3 | 0 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 18 |
| A-2 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 14 | 18 |
| A-4, B, E, S-2 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 |
| F, M, R, S-1 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 16 | 22 |
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
A wall used to create separate compartments shall be a fire barrier conforming to Section 707 of the International Building Code with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Where the building is not divided into more than one compartment, the compartment size shall be taken as the total floor area on all floors. Where there is more than one compartment within a story, each compartmented area on such story shall be provided with a horizontal exit conforming to Section 1026 of the International Building Code. The fire door serving as the horizontal exit between compartments shall be so installed, fitted, and gasketed that such fire door will provide a substantial barrier to the passage of smoke.
A floor/ceiling assembly used to create compartments shall conform to Section 711 of the International Building Code and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
Evaluate the fire-resistance rating of floors and walls separating tenants, including dwelling units, and not evaluated under Sections 1301.6.3 and 1301.6.5. Group I-2 occupancies shall evaluate the rating of the separations between patient sleeping rooms.
Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.4, determine the appropriate value and enter that value in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.4, Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separation, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
SEPARATION VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
| a | b | c | d | e | |
| A-1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| A-2 | -5 | -3 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| R | -4 | -2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| A-3, A-4, B, E, F, M, S-1 | -4 | -3 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| I-2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| S-2 | -5 | -2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
The categories for tenant and dwelling unit separations are:
- Category a—No fire partitions; incomplete fire partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing or automatic-closing.
- Category b—Fire partitions or floor assemblies with less than 1-hour fire-resistance ratings or not constructed in accordance with Section 708 or 711 of the International Building Code, respectively.
- Category c—Fire partitions with 1-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 708 of the International Building Code and floor assemblies with 1-hour but less than 2-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code or with only one tenant within the floor area.
- Category d—Fire barriers with 1-hour but less than 2-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code and floor assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code.
- Category e—Fire barriers and floor assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings and constructed in accordance with Sections 707 and 711 of the International Building Code, respectively.
Evaluate the fire-resistance rating and degree of completeness of walls which create corridors serving the floor and that are constructed in accordance with Section 1020 of the International Building Code. This evaluation shall not include the wall elements considered under Sections 1301.6.3 and 1301.6.4. Under the categories and groups in Table 1301.6.5, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.5, Corridor Walls, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
CORRIDOR WALL VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
| a | b | ca | da | |
| A-1 | -10 | -4 | 0 | 2 |
| A-2 | -30 | -12 | 0 | 2 |
| A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -7 | -3 | 0 | 2 |
| A-4, B, E, S-2 | -5 | -2 | 0 | 5 |
| I-2 | -10 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
- Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b.
The categories for corridor walls are:
- Category a—No fire partitions; incomplete fire partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.
- Category b—Less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating or not constructed in accordance with Section 708.4 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—1-hour to less than 2-hour fire-resistance rating, with doors conforming to Section 716 of the International Building Code or without corridors as permitted by Section 1020 of the International Building Code.
- Category d—2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating, with doors conforming to Section 716 of the International Building Code.
Evaluate the fire-resistance rating of interior exit stairways or ramps, hoistways, escalator openings, and other shaft enclosures within the building, and openings between two or more floors. Table 1301.6.6(1) contains the appropriate protection values. Multiply that value by the construction-type factor found in Table 1301.6.6(2). Enter the vertical opening value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.6, Vertical Openings, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. If the structure is a one-story building or if all the unenclosed vertical openings within the building conform to the requirements of Section 712 of the International Building Code, enter a value of 2. The maximum positive value for this requirement (VO) shall be 2.
VERTICAL OPENING PROTECTION VALUE
| PROTECTION | VALUE |
| None (unprotected opening) | -2 times number of floors connected |
| Less than 1 hour | -1 times number of floors connected |
| 1 to less than 2 hours | 1 |
| 2 hours or more | 2 |
TABLE 1301.6.6(2)
CONSTRUCTION-TYPE FACTOR
| FACTOR | TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION | ||||||||
| IA | IB | IIA | IIB | IIIA | IIIB | IV | VA | VB | |
| 1.2 | 1.5 | 2.2 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 2.3 | 3.3 | 7 | |
The following formula shall be used in computing vertical opening value.
(Equation 13-5)where:
VO = Vertical opening value. The calculated value shall not be greater than positive 2.0.
PV = Protection value from Table 1301.6.6.(1).
CF = Construction-type factor from Table 1301.6.6.(2).
Evaluate the ability of the HVAC system to resist the movement of smoke and fire beyond the point of origin. Under the categories in Section 1301.6.7.1, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.7, HVAC Systems, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. Facilities in Group I-2 occupancies meeting Category a, b or c shall be considered to fail the evaluation.
The categories for HVAC systems are:
- Category a—Plenums not in accordance with Section 602 of the International Mechanical Code. -10 points.
- Category b—Air movement in egress elements not in accordance with Section 1020.5 of the International Building Code. -5 points.
- Category c—Both Categories a and b are applicable. -15 points.
- Category d—Compliance of the HVAC system with Section 1020.5 of the International Building Code and Section 602 of the International Mechanical Code. 0 points.
- Category e—Systems serving one story; or a central boiler/chiller system without ductwork connecting two or more stories. +5 points.
Evaluate the smoke detection capability based on the location and operation of automatic fire detectors in accordance with Section 907 of the International Building Code and the International Mechanical Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.8, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.8, Automatic Fire Detection, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. Facilities in Group I-2 occupancies meeting Category a, b or c shall be considered to fail the evaluation.
AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
| a | b | c | d | e | f | |
| A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -10 | -5 | 0 | 2 | 6 | NA |
| A-2 | -25 | -5 | 0 | 5 | 9 | NA |
| A-4, B, E, S-2 | -4 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | NA |
| I-2 | NP | NP | NP | 4 | 5 | 2 |
NA = Not Applicable.
NP = Not Permitted.
The categories for automatic fire detection are:
- Category a—None.
- Category b—Existing smoke detectors in HVAC systems and maintained in accordance with the International Fire Code.
- Category c—Smoke detectors in HVAC systems. The detectors are installed in accordance with the requirements for new buildings in the International Mechanical Code.
- Category d—Smoke detectors throughout all floor areas other than individual sleeping units, tenant spaces and dwelling units.
- Category e—Smoke detectors installed throughout the floor area.
- Category f—Smoke detectors in corridors only.
Evaluate the capability of the fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the International Building Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.9, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.9, Fire Alarm System, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
| a | ba | c | d | |
| A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, B, E, R | -10 | -5 | 0 | 5 |
| F, M, S | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 |
| I-2 | -4 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
- For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device.
The categories for fire alarm systems are:
- Category a—None.
- Category b—Fire alarm system with manual fire alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.4 of the International Building Code and alarm notification appliances in accordance with Section 907.5.2 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—Fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the International Building Code.
- Category d—Category c plus a required emergency voice/alarm communications system and a fire command station that conforms to Section 911 of the International Building Code and contains the emergency voice/alarm communications system controls, fire department communication system controls, and any other controls specified in Section 911 of the International Building Code where those systems are provided.
Evaluate the ability of a natural or mechanical venting, exhaust, or pressurization system to control the movement of smoke from a fire. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.10, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.10, Smoke Control, for means of egress and general safety.
SMOKE CONTROL VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
| a | b | c | d | e | f | |
| A-1, A-2, A-3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 6 |
| A-4, E | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| B, M, R | 0 | 2a | 3a | 3a | 3a | 4a |
| F, S | 0 | 2a | 2a | 3a | 3a | 3a |
| I-2 | -4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
- This value shall be 0 if compliance with Category d or e in Section 1301.6.8.1 has not been obtained.
The categories for smoke control are:
- Category a—None.
- Category b—The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. Openings are provided in exterior walls at the rate of 20 square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear feet (15 240 mm) of exterior wall in each story and distributed around the building perimeter at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Such openings shall be readily openable from the inside without a key or separate tool and shall be provided with ready access thereto. In lieu of operable openings, clearly and permanently marked tempered glass panels shall be used.
- Category c—One enclosed exit stairway, with ready access thereto, from each occupied floor of the building. The stairway has operable exterior windows, and the building has openings in accordance with Category b.
- Category d—One smokeproof enclosure and the building has openings in accordance with Category b.
- Category e—The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. Each floor area is provided with a mechanical air-handling system designed to accomplish smoke containment. Return and exhaust air shall be moved directly to the outside without recirculation to other floor areas of the building under fire conditions. The system shall exhaust not less than six air changes per hour from the floor area. Supply air by mechanical means to the floor area is not required. Containment of smoke shall be considered as confining smoke to the floor area involved without migration to other floor areas. Any other tested and approved design that will adequately accomplish smoke containment is permitted.
- Category f—Each stairway shall be one of the following: a smokeproof enclosure in accordance with Section 1023.11 of the International Building Code; pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.5 of the International Building Code; or shall have operable exterior windows.
Evaluate the means of egress capacity and the number of exits available to the building occupants. In applying this section, the means of egress are required to conform to the following sections of the International Building Code: 1003.7, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1016.2, 1026.1, 1028.2, 1028.5, 1029.2, 1029.3, 1029.4 and 1030. The number of exits credited is the number that is available to each occupant of the area being evaluated. Existing fire escapes shall be accepted as a component in the means of egress when conforming to Section 504.
Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.11, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.11, Means of Egress Capacity, for means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 1301.6.11
MEANS OF EGRESS VALUES
MEANS OF EGRESS VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
| aa | b | c | d | e | |
| A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, E, I-2 | -10 | 0 | 2 | 8 | 10 |
| M | -3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| B, F, S | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| R | -3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
- The values indicated are for buildings six stories or less in height. For buildings over six stories above grade plane, add an additional -10 points.
Upcodes Diagrams
The categories for means-of-egress capacity and number of exits are:
- Category a—Compliance with the minimum required means-of-egress capacity or number of exits is achieved through the use of a fire escape in accordance with Section 504.
- Category b—Capacity of the means of egress complies with Section 1005 of the International Building Code, and the number of exits complies with the minimum number required by Section 1006 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—Capacity of the means of egress is equal to or exceeds 125 percent of the required means-of-egress capacity, the means of egress complies with the minimum required width dimensions specified in the International Building Code, and the number of exits complies with the minimum number required by Section 1006 of the International Building Code.
- Category d—The number of exits provided exceeds the number of exits required by Section 1006 of the International Building Code. Exits shall be located a distance apart from each other equal to not less than that specified in Section 1007 of the International Building Code.
- Category e—The area being evaluated meets both Categories c and d.
In spaces required to be served by more than one means of egress, evaluate the length of the exit access travel path in which the building occupants are confined to a single path of travel. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.12, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.12, Dead Ends, for means of egress and general safety.
DEAD-END VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIESa | |||
| a | b | c | d | |
| A-1, A-3, A-4, B, F, M, R, S | -2 | 0 | 2 | -4 |
| A-2, E | -2 | 0 | 2 | -4 |
| I-2 | -2 | 0 | 2 | -6 |
- For dead-end distances between categories, the dead-end value shall be obtained by linear interpolation.
The categories for dead ends are:
- Category a—Dead end of 35 feet (10 670 mm) in nonsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21 340 mm) in sprinklered buildings.
- Category b—Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm); or 50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance with Section 1020.4, Exception 2, of the International Building Code.
- Category c—No dead ends; or ratio of length to width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.
- Category d—Dead ends exceeding Category a.
Evaluate the length of exit access travel to an approved exit. Determine the appropriate points in accordance with the following equation and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.13, Maximum Exit Access Travel Distance for means of egress and general safety. The maximum allowable exit access travel distance shall be determined in accordance with Section 1017.1 of the International Building Code.
(Equation 13-6)Evaluate the passenger elevator equipment and controls that are available to the fire department to reach all occupied floors. Emergency recall and in-car operation of elevators shall be provided in accordance with the International Fire Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.14, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.14, Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. The values shall be zero for a single-story building.
ELEVATOR CONTROL VALUES
| ELEVATOR TRAVEL | CATEGORIES | |||
| a | b | c | d | |
| Less than 25 feet of travel above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting orrescue personnel | -2 | 0 | 0 | +2 |
| Travel of 25 feet or more above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting orrescue personnel | -4 | NP | 0 | +4 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NP = Not Permitted.
The categories for elevator controls are:
- Category a—No elevator.
- Category b—Any elevator without Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation.
- Category c—All elevators with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation as required by the International Fire Code.
- Category d—All meet Category c; or Category b where permitted to be without Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation; and at least one elevator that complies with new construction requirements serves all occupied floors.
Evaluate the presence of and reliability of means of egress emergency lighting. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.15, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.15, Means of Egress Emergency Lighting, for means of egress and general safety.
MEANS OF EGRESS EMERGENCY LIGHTING VALUES
| NUMBER OF EXITS REQUIRED BY SECTION 1006 OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE | CATEGORIES | ||
| a | b | c | |
| Two or more exits | NP | 0 | 4 |
| Minimum of one exit | 0 | 1 | 1 |
NP = Not Permitted.
The categories for means of egress emergency lighting are:
- Category a—Means-of-egress lighting and exit signs not provided with emergency power in accordance with Section 2702 of the International Building Code.
- Category b—Means of egress lighting and exit signs provided with emergency power in accordance with Section 2702 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—Emergency power provided to means of egress lighting and exit signs, which provides protection in the event of power failure to the site or building.
Where a building has two or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy classification, the separation between the mixed occupancies shall be evaluated in accordance with this section. Where there is no separation between the mixed occupancies or the separation between mixed occupancies does not qualify for any of the categories indicated in Section 1301.6.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as indicated in Section 1301.6, and the value for mixed occupancies shall be zero. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.16, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.16, Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety and general safety. For buildings without mixed occupancies, the value shall be zero. Facilities in Group I-2 occupancies meeting Category a shall be considered to fail the evaluation.
MIXED OCCUPANCY VALUESa
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||
| a | b | c | |
| A-1, A-2, R | -10 | 0 | 10 |
| A-3, A-4, B, E, F, M, S | -5 | 0 | 5 |
| I-2 | NP | 0 | 5 |
NP = Not Permitted.
- For fire-resistance ratings between categories, the value shall be obtained by linear interpolation.
The categories for mixed occupancies are:
- Category a—Occupancies separated by minimum 1-hour fire barriers or minimum 1-hour horizontal assemblies, or both.
- Category b—Separations between occupancies in accordance with Section 508.4 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—Separations between occupancies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than twice that required by Section 508.4 of the International Building Code.
Evaluate the ability to suppress a fire based on the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the International Building Code. "Required sprinklers" shall be based on the requirements of this code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.17, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.17, Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress divided by 2, and general safety. High-rise buildings defined in Chapter 2 of the International Building Code that undergo a change of occupancy to Group R shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 403 of the International Building Code and Chapter 9 of the International Building Code. Facilities in Group I-2 occupancies meeting Category a, b, c or f shall be considered to fail the evaluation.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
| aa | ba | c | d | e | f | |
| A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -6 | -3 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 |
| A-2 | -4 | -2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| A-4, B, E, S-2 | -12 | -6 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 12 |
| I-2 | NP | NP | NP | 8 | 10 | NP |
NP = Not Permitted.
- These options cannot be taken if Category a in Section 1301.6.18 is used.
The categories for automatic sprinkler system protection are:
- Category a—Sprinklers are required throughout; sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler system design is not adequate for the hazard protected in accordance with Section 903 of the International Building Code.
- Category b—Sprinklers are required in a portion of the building; sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler system design is not adequate for the hazard protected in accordance with Section 903 of the International Building Code.
- Category c—Sprinklers are not required; none are provided.
- Category d—Sprinklers are required in a portion of the building; sprinklers are provided in such portion; the system is one that complied with the code at the time of installation and is maintained and supervised in accordance with Section 903 of the International Building Code.
- Category e—Sprinklers are required throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance with Chapter 9 of the International Building Code.
- Category f—Sprinklers are not required throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance with Chapter 9 of the International Building Code.
Evaluate the ability to initiate attack on a fire by making a supply of water readily available through the installation of standpipes in accordance with Section 905 of the International Building Code. "Required Standpipes" shall be based on the requirements of the International Building Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.18, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.18, Standpipes, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
STANDPIPE SYSTEM VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
| aa | b | c | d | |
| A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -6 | 0 | 4 | 6 |
| A-2 | -4 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| A-4, B, E, S-2 | -12 | 0 | 6 | 12 |
| I-2 | -2 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
- This option cannot be taken if Category a or Category b in Section 1301.6.17 is used.
The categories for standpipe systems are:
- Category a—Standpipes are required; standpipe is not provided or the standpipe system design is not in compliance with Section 905.3 of the International Building Code.
- Category b—Standpipes are not required; none are provided.
- Category c—Standpipes are required; standpipes are provided in accordance with Section 905 of the International Building Code.
- Category d—Standpipes are not required; standpipes are provided in accordance with Section 905 of the International Building Code.
Evaluate the protection of incidental uses in accordance with Section 509.4.2 of the International Building Code. Do not include those where this code requires automatic sprinkler systems throughout the building including covered and open mall buildings, high-rise buildings, public garages and unlimited area buildings. Assign the lowest score from Table 1301.6.19 for the building or floor area being evaluated and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.19, Incidental Uses, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. If there are no specific occupancy areas in the building or floor area being evaluated, the value shall be zero.
INCIDENTAL USE AREA VALUES
| PROTECTION REQUIRED BY TABLE 509 OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE | PROTECTION PROVIDED | ||||||
| None | 1 hour | AS | AS with CRS | 1 hour and AS | 2 hours | 2 hours and AS | |
| 2 hours and AS | -4 | -3 | -2 | -2 | -1 | -2 | 0 |
| 2 hours, or 1 hour and AS | -3 | -2 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 1 hour and AS | -3 | -2 | -1 | -1 | 0 | -1 | 0 |
| 1 hour | -1 | 0 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 1 hour, or AS with CRS | -1 | 0 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| AS with CRS | -1 | -1 | -1 | -1 | 0 | -1 | 0 |
| 1 hour or AS | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
AS = Automatic Sprinkler System;
CRS = Construction capable of resisting the passage of smoke (see IBC Section 509.4.2 of the International Building Code).
Note: For Table 1301.7, see page 71.
Evaluate the smoke compartments for compliance with Section 407.5 of the International Building Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.20, determine the appropriate smoke compartmentation value (SCV) and enter that value into Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.20, Smoke Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. Facilities in Group I-2 occupancies meeting Category b or c shall be considered to fail the evaluation.
SMOKE COMPARTMENTATION VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIESa | ||
| a | b | c | |
| A, B, E, F, M, R and S | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| I-2 | 0 | NP | NP |
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.093 m2.
NP = Not Permitted.
- For areas between categories, the smoke compartmentation value shall be obtained by linear interpolation.
Categories for smoke compartment size are:
- Category a—Smoke compartment size is equal to or less than 22,500 square feet (2092 m2).
- Category b—Smoke compartment size is greater than 22,500 square feet (2092 m2).
- Category c—Smoke compartments are not provided.
In I-2 occupancies, the ability of patients, their concentration and ratio to attendants shall be evaluated and applied in accordance with this section. Evaluate each smoke compartment using the categories in Sections 1301.6.21.1, 1301.6.21.2 and 1301.6.21.3 and enter the value in Table 1301.7. To determine the safety factor, multiply the three values together; if the sum is 9 or greater, compliance has failed.
Evaluate the ability of the patients for self-preservation in each smoke compartment in an emergency. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.21.1, determine the appropriate value and enter that value in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.21.1, Patient Ability for Self-preservation, for means of egress and general safety.
PATIENT ABILITY VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||
| a | b | c | |
| I-2 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
The categories for patient ability for self-preservation are:
- Category a—(mobile) Patients are capable of self-preservation without assistance.
- Category b—(not mobile) Patients rely on assistance for evacuation or relocation.
- Category c—(not movable) Patients cannot be evacuated or relocated.
Evaluate the concentration of patients in each smoke compartment under Section 1301.6.21.2. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.21.2 determine the appropriate value and enter that value in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.21.2, Patient Concentration, for means of egress and general safety.
PATIENT CONCENTRATION VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||
| a | b | c | |
| I-2 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
Evaluate the attendant-to-patient ratio for each compartment under Section 1301.6.21.3. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1301.6.21.3 determine the appropriate value and enter that value in Table 1301.7 under Safety Parameter 1301.6.21.3, Attendant-to-patient Ratio, for means of egress and general safety.
ATTENDANT-TO-PATIENT RATIO VALUES
| OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||
| a | b | c | |
| I-2 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
The categories for attendant-to-patient concentrations are:
- Category a—attendant-to-patient concentration is 1:5.
- Category b—attendant-to-patient concentration is 1:6 to 1:10.
- Category c—attendant-to-patient concentration is greater than 1:10 or no patients.
After determining the appropriate data from Section 1301.6, enter those data in Table 1301.7 and total the building score.
SUMMARY SHEET—BUILDING CODE
| Existing occupancy: ____________________________________ | Proposed occupancy: ____________________________________ | ||
| Year building was constructed:____________________________ | Number of stories: ___________ Height in feet:_______________ | ||
| Type of construction: ___________________________________ | Area per floor: _________________________________________ | ||
| Percentage of open perimeter increase: ________ % | |||
| Completely suppressed: | Yes_______ No_____ | Corridor wall rating:_____________________________________ | |
| Type:_________________________________________________ | |||
| Compartmentation: | Yes ______ No _______ | Required door closers: | Yes__________ No___________ |
| Fire-resistance rating of vertical opening enclosures:______________________________________________________________________ | |||
| Type of HVAC system:___________________________________________, serving number of floors: ____________________________ | |||
| Automatic fire detection: | Yes_______ No_______ | Type and location: ______________________________________ | |
| Fire alarm system: | Yes_______ No_______ | Type:_________________________________________________ | |
| Smoke control: | Yes_______ No_______ | Type:_________________________________________________ | |
| Adequate exit routes: | Yes _______ No_______ | Dead ends: ______________ | Yes ________ No __________ |
| Maximum exit access travel distance: ______________________ | Elevator controls: | Yes ________ No __________ | |
| Means of egress emergency lighting: | Yes _______ No ______ | Mixed occupancies: | Yes ________ No __________ |
| Standpipes: | Yes_______ No_______ | Patient ability for self-preservation: _________________________ | |
| Incidental use: | Yes_______ No_______ | Patient concentration: ____________________________________ | |
| Smoke compartmentation less than 22,500 sq. feet (2092 m2): | Yes_______ No_______ | Attendant-to-patient ratio: ________________________________ | |
| SAFETY PARAMETERS | FIRE SAFETY (FS) | MEANS OF EGRESS (ME) | GENERAL SAFETY (GS) |
| 1301.6.1 Building height | |||
| 1301.6.2 Building area | |||
| 1301.6.3 Compartmentation | |||
| 1301.6.4 Tenant and dwelling unit separations | |||
| 1301.6.5 Corridor walls | |||
| 1301.6.6 Vertical openings | |||
| 1301.6.7 HVAC systems | |||
| 1301.6.8 Automatic fire detection | |||
| 1301.6.9 Fire alarm system | |||
| 1301.6.10 Smoke control | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.11 Means of egress | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.12 Dead ends | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.13 Maximum exit access travel distance | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.14 Elevator control | |||
| 1301.6.15 Means of egress emergency lighting | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.16 Mixed occupancies | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.17 Automatic sprinklers | ÷ 2 = | ||
| 1301.6.18 Standpipes | |||
| 1301.6.19 Incidental use | |||
| 1301.6.20 Smoke compartmentation | |||
| 1301.6.21.1 Patient ability for self-preservationa | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.21.2 Patient concentrationa | * * * * | ||
| 1301.6.21.3 Attendant-to-patient ratioa | * * * * | ||
| Building score—total value |
* * * *No applicable value to be inserted.
- Only applicable to Group I-2 occupancies.
The values in Table 1301.8 are the required mandatory safety scores for the evaluation process listed in Section 1301.6.
MANDATORY SAFETY SCORESa
| OCCUPANCY | FIRE SAFETY (MFS) | MEANS OF EGRESS (MME) | GENERAL SAFETY (MGS) |
| A-1 | 20 | 31 | 31 |
| A-2 | 21 | 32 | 32 |
| A-3 | 22 | 33 | 33 |
| A-4, E | 29 | 40 | 40 |
| B | 30 | 40 | 40 |
| F | 24 | 34 | 34 |
| I-2 | 19 | 34 | 34 |
| M | 23 | 40 | 40 |
| R | 21 | 38 | 38 |
| S-1 | 19 | 29 | 29 |
| S-2 | 29 | 39 | 39 |
a. MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety.
MME = Mandatory Means of Egress.
MGS = Mandatory General Safety.
The mandatory safety score in Table 1301.8 shall be subtracted from the building score in Table 1301.7 for each category in accordance with the evaluation formulas in Table 1301.9. Where the final score for any category equals zero or more, the building is in compliance with the requirements of this section for that category. Where the final score for any category is less than zero, the building is not in compliance with the requirements of this section.
EVALUATION FORMULASa
| FORMULA | T1301.7 | T1301.8 | SCORE | PASS | FAIL | |
| FS - MFS ≥ 0 | ______(FS) - | ______(MFS) | = | ______ | ______ | ______ |
| ME - MME ≥ 0 | ______(ME) - | ______(MME) | = | ______ | ______ | ______ |
| GS - MGS ≥ 0 | ______(GS) - | ______(MGS) | = | ______ | ______ | ______ |
| a. | FS = Fire Safety. | MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety. |
| ME = Means of Egress. | MME = Mandatory Means of Egress. | |
| GS = General Safety. | MGS = Mandatory General Safety. |
For mixed occupancies, the following provisions shall apply:
- Where the separation between mixed occupancies does not qualify for any category indicated in Section 1301.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for the occupancy with the lowest general safety score in Table 1301.8 shall be utilized (see Section 1301.6).
- Where the separation between mixed occupancies qualifies for any category indicated in Section 1301.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for each occupancy shall be placed against the evaluation scores for the appropriate occupancy.