The provisions of this chapter shall govern the materials and assemblies used for structural fire resistance and fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings.
Fire assemblies that serve multiple purposes in a building shall
comply with all of the requirements that are applicable for each of the individual fire assemblies.
The fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with the test procedures set forth in ASTM E 119 or UL 263 or in accordance with Section 703.3. The fire-resistance rating of penetrations and fire-resistant joint
systems shall be determined in accordance with Sections 714 and 715, respectively.
Interior walls and partitions of nonsymmetrical construction shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the commissioner, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side (see Section 705.5 of this code for exterior walls).
Combustible aggregates may be integrated with other materials to form a noncombustible material provided that the entire mixture, in the form in which it is to be used in construction, meets the requirement of this code for noncombustible construction.
Fire-resistance-rated assemblies tested under ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall not be considered to be restrained unless evidence satisfactory to the commissioner is furnished by the registered design professional showing that the construction qualifies for a restrained classification in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263. Restrained construction shall be identified on the construction documents.
In determining the fire-resistance rating of exterior bearing
walls, compliance with the ASTM E 119 or UL 263 criteria for unexposed surface temperature
rise and ignition of cotton waste due to passage of flame or gases is required only for a period of
time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of an exterior nonbearing wall with the
same fire separation distance, and in a building of the same group. Where the fire-resistance
rating, determined in accordance with this section, exceeds the fire-resistance rating determined
in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263, the fire exposure time period, water pressure and
application duration criteria for the hose stream test of ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall be based on
the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this section.
The application of any of the methods listed in this section shall be based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E 119 or UL 263. The required fire resistance of a building element, component or assembly shall be permitted to be established by any of the following methods or procedures:
Calculations in accordance with Section 722 of this code.
Engineering analysis based on a comparison of building element, component or assemblies designs having fire-resistance ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E 119 or UL 263.
Alternative protection methods as allowed by rules of the department.
Under the prescriptive fire-resistance
requirements of this code, the fire-resistance rating of a building element, component or assembly
shall be established without the use of automatic sprinklers or any other fire suppression system being
incorporated as part of the assembly tested in accordance with the fire exposure, procedures and
acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E 119 or UL 263. However, this section shall not prohibit or limit the duties and powers of the commissioner as allowed by Sections 28-103.1.3 and 28-103.3 of
Administrative Code.
The tests indicated in Sections 703.5.1 and 703.5.2 shall serve as criteria for acceptance of building materials as set forth in Sections 602.2, 602.3 and 602.4 in Type I, II, III and IV construction. The term "noncombustible" does not apply to the flame spread characteristics of interior finish or trim materials. A material shall not be classified as a noncombustible building construction material if it is subject to an increase in combustibility or flame spread beyond the limitations herein established through the effects of age, fabrication or erection techniques, moisture or other atmospheric conditions.
Materials having a structural base of noncombustible material as determined in accordance with Section 703.5.1 of this code with a surfacing not more than 0.125 inch (3.18 mm) thick that has a flame spread index not greater than 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723 shall be acceptable as noncombustible materials.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing, when tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 and complying with the requirements of Section 707 of this code, shall be permitted. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall bear a label marked in accordance with Table 716.3 of this code and issued by an approved agency that shall be permanently identified on the glazing.
Be located within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the end of each wall and at intervals not exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) measured horizontally along the wall or partition
Include lettering not less than 3 inches (76.2 mm) in height with a
minimum 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) stroke in a contrasting color incorporating the suggested wording, "FIRE AND/OR SMOKE BARRIER—PROTECT ALL OPENINGS."
Where columns are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating, the entire column shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting it on all sides for the full column height, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating. Where the column extends through a ceiling, the encasement protection shall be continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below through the ceiling space to the top of the column.
Members of the primary
structural frame other than columns that are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance
rating and support more than one floor or one floor and roof, or support a load-bearing wall or a
nonload-bearing wall more than one story high, shall be provided individual encasement protection
by protecting them on all sides for the full length, including connections to other structural
members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
Exception:
Individual encasement protection may be omitted on those exposed sides where the extent of protection is in accordance with the required fire-resistance rating, as determined in Section 703.
The required thickness and construction of fire-resistance-rated assemblies enclosing trusses shall be based on the results of full-scale tests or combinations of tests on truss components or on approved calculations based on such tests that satisfactorily demonstrate that the assembly has the required fire resistance.
The edges of lugs, brackets, rivets and bolt heads attached to structural members shall be protected to the highest required fire-resistance rating of the members connected.
Thickness of protection for concrete or masonry reinforcement shall be measured to the outside of the reinforcement, including stirrups, ties and spiral reinforcing ties.
Pipes, wires, conduits, ducts or other service facilities shall not be embedded in the required fire protective covering of a structural member that is required to be individually encased.
Exception:
Pipes, wires, and conduits may be installed in the space between the required fire protection and the structural member protected, provided that where such facilities pierce the required fire protection:
The area of the penetration does not exceed two percent of the area of the fire protection on any one face,
The penetrations are closed off with close-fitting metal escutcheons or plates, and
Where the fire protective covering of a structural member is subject to impact damage from moving vehicles, the handling of merchandise or other activity, the fire protective covering shall be protected by corner guards or by a substantial jacket of metal or other noncombustible material to a height adequate to provide full protection, but not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the finished floor.
Exception:
Corner protection is not required on concrete columns in open or enclosed parking garages.
Load-bearing structural members located within the exterior walls or exposed to the outside of a building or structure shall be provided with the highest fire-resistance rating as determined in accordance with the following:
Fire protection is not required at the bottom flange of lintels, shelf angles
and plates spanning not more than 6 feet 4 inches (1930.4 mm), whether part of the primary structural
frame or not, and from the bottom flange of lintels, shelf angles and plates not part of the structural
frame, regardless of span.
Such isolation system protection applied to isolator units shall be capable of retarding the transfer of heat to the isolator unit in such a manner that the required gravity load-carrying capacity of the isolator unit will not be impaired after exposure to the standard time-temperature curve fire test prescribed in ASTM E 119 or UL 263 for a duration not less than that required for the fire-resistance rating of the structure element in which the system is installed.
Such isolation system protection applied to isolator units shall be suitably designed and securely installed so as not to dislodge, loosen, sustain damage or otherwise impair its ability to accommodate the seismic movements for which the isolator unit is designed and to maintain its integrity for the purpose of providing the required fire-resistance protection.
The application of SFRM shall be consistent with the fire-resistance rating and the listing, including, but not limited to, minimum thickness and dry density of the applied SFRM, method of application, substrate surface conditions and the use of bonding adhesives, sealants, reinforcing or other materials.
The application of SFRM shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. The instructions shall include, but are not limited to, substrate temperatures and surface conditions and SFRM handling, storage, mixing, conveyance, method of application, curing and ventilation.
Substrates to receive SFRM shall be free of dirt, oil, grease, release agents, loose scale and any other condition that prevents adhesion. The substrates shall be free of primers, paints and encapsulants other than those fire tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing agency. Primed, painted or encapsulated steel shall be allowed, provided that testing has demonstrated that required adhesion is maintained.
Where the SFRM is to be applied over
primers, paints or encapsulants other than those specified in the listing, the material shall be
field tested in accordance with ASTM E 736. Where testing of the SFRM with primers, paints
or encapsulants demonstrates that required adhesion is maintained, SFRM shall be permitted
to be applied to primed, painted or encapsulated wide flange steel shapes subject to the
following conditions:
The beam flange width of such shape may not exceed 12 inches (304.8 mm);
The column flange width of such shape may not exceed 16 inches (406.4 mm);
The beam or column web depth of such shape may not exceed 16 inches (406.4
mm); and
The average and minimum bond strengthvalues shall be determined based on a
minimum of five bond tests conducted in accordance with ASTM E 736. Bond tests
conducted in accordance with ASTM E 736 shall indicate an average
bond strength of not less than 80 percent and an individual bond strength
of not less than 50 percent, when compared to the bond strength of the SFRM as
applied to clean uncoated 1/8-inch (3.2 mm) thick steel plate.
A minimum ambient and substrate temperature of 40°F (4.44°C) shall be maintained during and for not fewer than 24 hours after the application of the SFRM, unless the manufacturer's instructions allow otherwise.
The finished condition of SFRM applied to structural members or assemblies shall not, upon complete drying or curing, exhibit cracks, voids, spalls, delamination or any exposure of the substrate. Surface irregularities of SFRM shall be deemed acceptable.
Fire retardant or intumescent
coatings shall not be used to achieve the required fire-resistance rating on structural elements
composed of heavy timber members including, but not limited to, glued-laminated members, cross
laminated timber (CLT) or structural composite lumber (SCL).
Cornices, eave overhangs, exterior balconies and similar projections, including but not limited to, fascias, belt courses, pilasters, surrounds, gutters, leaders, half-timber work, shutters, and trellises, extending beyond the exterior wall shall conform to the requirements of this section and Section 1406, provided that any such projection, if removed, altered or destroyed, will not reduce the structural stability of the building enclosure, and that such projection is installed so as not to reduce the required fire-resistance rating of the building enclosure. Exterior egress balconies and exterior exit stairways and ramps shall comply with the requirements of this section and Sections 1021 and 1027, respectively. Projections shall not extend any closer to the line used to determine the fire separation distance than shown in Table 705.2. Exterior wall coverings and cladding at exterior balconies and similar projections shall comply with Section 1406.3.
Exception: Buildings on the same tax lot and considered as portions of one building in accordance with Section 705.3 are not required to comply with this section.
TABLE 705.2 MINIMUM SETBACK DISTANCE OF PROJECTION
Projections from walls of Type III, IV or Vconstruction shall be of any approved material. Projections located where openings are not permitted or where protection of openings is required shall be constructed of the following:
Noncombustible materials.
Combustible materials of not less than 1 hour fire-resistant-rated construction.
For the purposes of determining the required wall and opening protection, projections and roof-covering requirements, buildings on the same tax lot shall be assumed to have an imaginary line between them.
Exceptions:
Two or more buildings on the same tax lot shall be either regulated as separate buildings or shall be considered as portions of one building if the aggregate area of such buildings is within the limits specified in Chapter 5 for a single building. Where the buildings contain different occupancy groups or are of different types of construction, the area shall be that allowed for the most restrictive occupancy or construction.
Where protected openings are not limited by Section 705.8, the limitation on the rise of temperature on the unexposed surface of exterior walls as required by ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall not apply. Where protected openings are limited by Section 705.8 of this code, the limitation on the rise of temperature on the unexposed surface of exterior walls as required by ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall not apply provided that a correction is made for radiation from the unexposed exterior wall surface in accordance with the following formula:
Area of exterior wall surface in the story under consideration exclusive of openings, on which the temperature limitations of ASTM E 119 or UL 263 for walls are exceeded.
Feo
=
An "equivalent opening factor" derived from Figure 705.7 based on the average temperature of the unexposed wall surface and the fire-resistance rating of the wall.
The maximum percentage of unprotected and protected openings shall be 25 percent for Group R-3 occupancies.
Unprotected openings shall not be permitted for openings with a fire separation distance of less than 15 feet for Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies.
The area of unprotected and protected openings for Group R-3 occupancies shall have no limit, if provided with a fire separation distance of 5 feet or greater
The area of openings in an open parking structure with a fire separation distance of 10 feet or greater shall have no limit.
Not applicable to Group H-1, H-2 and H-3 occupancies.
Protected openings through a wall or walls between buildings shall comply with Section 705.8.
Protected openings within a fire separation distance of 3 feet or less are permitted for Occupancy Groups R-2 and R-3 provided such openings do not exceed 10 percent of the area of the façade of the story in which they are located. These openings shall not be credited towards meeting any mandatory natural light or ventilation requirements unless they also comply with applicable provisions of Chapter 12 and the Zoning Resolution.
In Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies with an exterior separation distance greater than 3 feet, openings shall be in accordance with percentages indicated as "Protected Classification of Opening" in Table 705.8. However, such openings shall not be required to be protected.
Upon special application, the commissioner may permit exterior wall openings to be constructed in excess of the permitted area established by Table 705.8 provided that such openings are protected and provided that at the time of their construction they are located at least 60 feet in a direct line, measured at any angle, including vertically and horizontally, from any neighboring building, unless otherwise permitted by Section 705.3 for buildings on the same tax lot. The construction type of the neighboring building shall not be factored into the measurement of the distance between the openings and adjoining building. If any neighboring building is later altered or constructed to come within the above distance limitation, the affected exterior openings shall immediately be closed with construction meeting the fire-resistance rating requirements for exterior wallconstruction of the building in which they are located. Such additional openings shall not be credited toward meeting any of the mandatory natural light or ventilation requirements unless they also comply with applicable provisions of the New York City Zoning Resolution and Chapter 12 of this code.
The maximum area of unprotected and protected openings permitted in an exterior wall in any story of a building shall not exceed the percentages specified in Table 705.8.
Exceptions:
In other than Group H occupancies, unlimited unprotected openings are permitted in the first story above grade plane either:
Where the wall faces an unoccupied space, the unoccupied space shall be on the same tax lot or dedicated for public use, shall be not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) in width and shall have access from a street by a posted fire lane in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.
Buildings whose exterior bearing walls, exterior nonbearing walls and exterior primary structural frame are not required to be fire-resistance- rated shall be permitted to have unlimited unprotected openings.
Exception: Opening protectives are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the exterior openings are protected by a water curtain using automatic sprinklers approved for that use. The sprinklers and the water curtain shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13, as modified by Appendix Q of this code.
Where unprotected openings are permitted, windows and doors shall be constructed of any approved materials. Glazing shall conform to the requirements of Chapters 24 and 26.
Where both unprotected and protected openings are located in the exterior wall in any story of a building, the total area of the openings shall be determined in accordance with the following formula:
(Ap/ap) + (Au/au) ≤ 1 (Equation 7-2)
where:
Ap
=
Actual area of protected openings, or the equivalent area of protected openings, Ae (see Section 705.7).
Openings in exterior walls in adjacent stories shall be separated vertically to protect against fire spread on the exterior of the buildings where the openings are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of each other horizontally. Such openings shall be separated vertically not less than 3 feet (914.4 mm) by spandrel girders, exterior walls or other similar assemblies that have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour, rated
for exposure to fire from both sides, or by flame barriers that extend horizontally not
less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond the exterior wall and that are at least as wide as the opening. Flame barriers shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. The unexposed surface temperature limitations specified in ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall not apply to the flame barriers or vertical separation unless otherwise required by the provisions of this code. Where a curtain wall assembly is used on the exterior wall, the intersection between the floor assembly and curtain wall assembly shall be protected in accordance with Section 713.4 of
this code.
Exceptions:
This section shall not apply to buildings that are three stories or less above grade plane.
For buildings on the same tax lot, opening protectives shall be provided in every opening that is less than 15 feet (4572 mm) vertically above the roof of an adjacent building or structure based on assuming an imaginary line between them. The opening protectives are required where the fire separation distance between the imaginary line and the adjacent building or structure is less than 15 feet (4572 mm).
Buildings on the same tax lot and considered as portions of one building in accordance with Section 705.3 are not required to comply with Section 705.8.6.
The void created at the intersection of a floor/ceiling assembly and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
One-hour fire-resistance-rated exterior walls that terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab, provided that the entire building is covered with a Class A roof covering. Such roof shall not have openings located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the 1-hour fire-resistance-rated exterior wall and not within 5 feet (1524 mm) for Groups R and U.
Where the roof/ceiling framing elements are parallel to the walls, such framing and elements supporting such framing shall not be of less than 1-hour fire-resistance rated construction for a width of 4 feet (1220 mm) for Groups R and U and 10 feet (3048 mm) for other occupancies, measured from the interior side of the wall.
Where roof/ceiling framing elements are not parallel to the wall, the entire span of such framing and elements supporting such framing shall not be of less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
In occupancies of Groups R-2 and R-3, where both are provided with a Class A or B roof covering, the exterior wall shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing or deck in Type III, IV and Vconstruction, provided one or both of the following criteria is met:
The roof sheathing or deck is constructed of approved noncombustible materials or of fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1220 mm) from the perimeter; or
The roof is protected with 0.625-inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board directly beneath the underside of the roof sheathing or deck, supported by not less than nominal 2-inch (50.8 mm) ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members for a minimum distance of 4 feet (1220 mm).
Parapets shall have the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the supporting wall, and on any side adjacent to a roof surface, shall have noncombustible faces for the uppermost 18 inches (457.2 mm), including counterflashing and coping materials. The height of the parapet shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the point where the roof surface and the wall intersect. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet at a slope greater than two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same height as any portion of the roof within a fire separation distance where protection of wall openings is required, but in no case shall the height be less than 30 inches (762 mm).
Where a portion of a building is cantilevered over an adjacent building or tax lot by a horizontal distance greater than 1 foot (304.8 mm), the cantilevered portions shall be protected with construction that conforms to a fire engineering analysis acceptable to the commissioner that conforms to Section 705.12.1. In no case shall the protection for structural elements and horizontal assemblies be less than that required by the building type of construction. In no case shall the fire-resistance rating of exterior walls or any other cantilevered exterior surfaces be less than that required by the
building type of construction, and in no case shall the limitations for openings on such exterior
surfaces be less than that required for a lot line condition pursuant to Table 705.8, including footnote "m."
The analysis shall demonstrate that all portions of the building that cantilever will withstand the anticipated effects of a design fire in accordance with generally accepted fire engineering principles with respect to at least all of the following building elements:
The structural supports and frame of the cantilevered portion of the building;
The underside projecting assemblies of the cantilevered portion of the building; and
The exterior walls and openings on all sides of the cantilevered portion of the building.
With respect to the design fire within the existing building over which the proposed building is cantilevered, the analysis shall include a scenario to burn-out, where any active fire suppression systems do not operate, the fire department does not intervene, all interior vertical compartmentation, including at the entrances to the stairways, has been removed, and the fuel loading exceeds what is normally expected for the current occupancy by a factor of safety acceptable to the commissioner. Where there is no existing building below the cantilever, or where the existing building below the cantilever is significantly underbuilt, the commissioner may require additional data and analysis.
The applicant shall submit to the department an approval from the Fire Department that the proposed cantilever complies with applicable provisions of the New York City Fire Code with respect to access to buildings and roofs.
A fire protection peer review of the analysis required by
Sections 705.12.1 and 705.12.1.1 shall be submitted to the department for each such analysis.
The fire protection peer review shall be
performed by a qualified independent fire protection engineer who has been retained by or on
behalf of the owner. A fire protection peer reviewer shall meet the requirements of the rules
of the department.
The fire protection peer reviewer shall
review the fire engineering analysis and construction documents relevant to the analysis for
general compliance with the applicable provisions of this code.
The fire protection peer reviewer shall submit
a report to the department stating that the fire engineering analysis conforms to the
requirements of this code without exception.
The architect or engineer submitting the fire
engineering analysis shall retain responsibility for the fire engineering analysis. The
activities and reports of the fire protection peer reviewer shall not relieve the applicant of
record of this responsibility.
Each portion of a building separated by one or more fire walls that comply with the provisions of this section shall be considered a separate building. The extent and location of such fire walls shall provide a complete separation. Where a fire wall also separates occupancies that are required to be separated by a fire barrierwall, the most restrictive requirements of each separation shall apply. Concealed spaces in cornices and eaves shall comply with the provisions of Section 705.2.2.
Any wall located on a property line between adjacent buildings, which is used or adapted for joint service between the two buildings, shall be constructed as a fire wall in accordance with Section 706, and shall create separate buildings.
Fire walls shall
be designed and constructed to allow collapse of the structure on either side without
collapse of the wall under
fire conditions. Fire walls designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 221 shall be deemed
to comply with this section.
Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of combustible exterior sheathing or siding provided the exterior wall has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour for a horizontal distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of noncombustible exterior sheathing, exterior siding or other noncombustible exterior finishes provided the sheathing, siding or other exterior noncombustible finish extends a horizontal distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall.
Buildings or spaces on both sides of the intersecting fire wall shall assume to have an imaginary lot line at the fire wall and extending beyond the exterior of the fire wall. The location of the assumed line in relation to the exterior walls and the fire wall shall be such that the exterior wall and opening protection meet the requirements set forth in Sections 705.5 and 705.8. Such protection is not required for exterior walls terminating at fire walls that form an angle equal to or greater than 180 degrees (3.14 rad).
Fire walls shall extend to the outer edge of horizontal projecting elements such as balconies, roof overhangs, canopies, marquees and similar projections that are within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall.
Noncombustible horizontal projecting elements with concealed spaces, provided a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance-rated wall extends through the concealed space. The projecting element shall be separated from the building by not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance on each side of the firewall equal to the depth of the projecting element. The wall is not required to extend under the projecting element where the building exterior wall is not less than 1-hour fire-resistance rated for a distance on each side of the fire wall equal to the depth of the projecting element. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
For combustible horizontal projecting elements with concealed spaces, the fire wall need only extend through the concealed space to the outer edges of the projecting elements. The exterior wall behind and below the projecting element shall be of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance not less than the depth of the projecting elements on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire-protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
Fire walls shall extend from the foundation through the roof, to form a parapet not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in height.
Exceptions:
Where a 2-hour fire wall is permitted in accordance with Table 706.4, such wall shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab provided:
Openings in the roof shall not be located within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall; and
Each building shall be provided with not less than a Class A roof covering.
In buildings of Type I or II construction, fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of noncombustible roof sheathing, deck, or slabs where both buildings are provided with not less than a Class A roof covering. Openings in the roof shall not be located within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall.
In buildings of Type III, IV and Vconstruction, fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the underside of noncombustible roof sheathing or decks provided:
There are no openings in the roof within 4 feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall; and
The roof is covered with a minimum Class A roof covering.
Where a fire wall serves as an interior wall for a building, and the roof on one side or both sides of the fire wall slopes toward the fire wall at a slope greater than two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12), the fire wall shall extend to a height equal to the height of the roof located 4 feet (1220 mm) from the fire wall plus 30 inches (762 mm). In no case shall the extension of the fire wall be less than 30 inches (762 mm).
Where a fire wall serves as an exterior wall for a building and
separates buildings having different roof levels, such wall shall terminate at a point not less than
30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof level, provided the exterior wall for a height of 60 feet
(18 288 mm) above the lower roof is not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction from
both sides with openings protected by fire assemblies having a fire protection rating of not less
than 3/4 hour.
Exception:
Where the fire wall terminates at the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or
slab of the lower roof, provided:
Adjacent combustible members entering into a concrete or masonry firewall from opposite sides shall not have less than a 4-inch (101.6 mm) distance between embedded ends. Where combustible members frame into hollowwalls or walls of hollow units, hollow spaces shall be solidly filled for the full thickness of the wall and for a distance not less than 4 inches (101.6 mm) above, below and between the structural members, with noncombustible materials approved for fireblocking.
Each opening through a fire wall or a party wall shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.5 and shall not exceed 156 square feet (14.5 m2). The aggregate width of openings at any floor level shall not exceed 25 percent of the length of the wall.
Exception:
Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (14.5 m2) where both buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. However, the aggregate width of all openings at any one floor level shall not exceed 25 percent of the length of the wall.
Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate fire walls.
Exception:
Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings of fire walls that are not on a lot line shall be allowed provided the penetrations comply with Section 717. The size and aggregate width of all openings shall not exceed the limitations of Section 706.8.
Fire barriers shall extend from the top of the floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and shall be securely attached thereto. Such fire barriers shall be continuous through concealed spaces, such as the space above a suspended ceiling. Joints and voids at intersections shall comply with Sections 707.8 and 707.9.
Exceptions:
Shaft enclosures shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section
713.12.
Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (14.5 m2) or an aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall where the opening protective has been tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 and has a minimum fire-resistance rating not less than the fire-resistance rating of the wall.
Fire window assemblies permitted in atrium separation walls shall not be limited to a maximum aggregate width of 25 percent of the length of the wall.
The voids created at the intersection of a fire barrier and a nonfire-resistance-rated roof assembly or a nonfire-resistance-rated exterior wall assembly shall be filled. An approved material or system, or a material consistent with the construction requirements of the fire barrier, shall be used to fill the void, and shall be securely installed in or on the intersection for its entire length so as not to dislodge, loosen or otherwise impair its ability to accommodate expected building movements and to retard the passage of fire and hot gases.
Penetrations by ducts and air
transfer openings into an enclosure for exit access stairways and ramps shall only be
allowed when permitted by Sections 1023.4 and 1023.6.
Fire partitions shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above or to the fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly above, and shall be securely attached thereto. If the fire partitions are not continuous to the sheathing, deck or slab, the space between the ceiling and the sheathing, deck or slab above shall be fire blocked or draft stopped in accordance with Sections 718.2 and 718.3 at the partition line. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the wall supported.
Atticfireblocking or draftstopping is not required at the partition line in
Group R-2 buildings that do not exceed four stories above grade plane, provided the attic
space is subdivided by draftstopping into areas not exceeding 3,000 square feet (
278.8 m2
) or above every two dwelling units, whichever is smaller.
Fireblocking or draftstopping is not required at the partition line in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 provided that automatic sprinklers are installed in combustible floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling spaces.
Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the
underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, including continuity through concealed
spaces, such as those found above suspended ceilings, and interstitial structural and mechanical
spaces. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of
the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type IIB, IIIB or VB construction. Smoke barrierwalls used to separate smoke compartments shall comply with Section 709.4.1. Smoke-barrierwalls
used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4 or to enclose elevator lobbies in
accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.7.2 shall also comply with Section 709.4.2.
Exception:Smoke barrierwalls are not required in interstitial spaces where such spaces are
designed and constructed with ceilings or exterior walls that provide resistance to the passage of
fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the smoke barrierwalls.
In Group I-1, Group I-2 and Group Bambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed
across a corridor in accordance with Section 709.5.1, the doors shall not be required to
be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall be close fitting within
operational tolerances, and shall not have a center mullion or undercuts in excess of 3/4-
inch (19.1 mm), louvers or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, and
astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. Where permitted by the door manufacturer's
listing, positive-latching devices are not required.
In Group I-2 and Group B ambulatory care
facilities, where doors are installed across a corridor, the doors shall be automatic-closing by
smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3 and shall have a vision panel with fireprotection-rated glazing materials in fire-protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not
exceed that tested.
Smoke partitions shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Glazing may be used provided it is heat-strengthened or tempered glazing complying and shall otherwise comply with Chapter 24, and shall be protected by sprinkler heads installed in a maximum of 6 feet (1828.8 mm) on center on each side of the smoke partition.
Smoke partitions shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above or to the underside of the ceiling above where the ceiling membrane is constructed to limit the transfer of smoke.
Where required elsewhere in the code, doors in smoke partitions shall meet the requirements for a smoke and draft control door assembly tested in accordance with UL 1784. The air leakage rate of the door assembly shall not exceed 3.0 cubic feet per minute per square foot (0.015424 m3/s m2) of door opening at 0.10 inch (24.9 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature test and the elevated temperature exposure test. Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance with NFPA 105.
Exception:
Where the installation of a smoke damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized.
Horizontal floor or roof assemblies shall be of
noncombustible materials when such assemblies serve as horizontal offsets to
fire walls or fire barriers required to be noncombustible.
Where the weight of lay-in ceiling panels, used as part of fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies, is not adequate to resist an upward force of 1 pound per square foot (47.8 Pa), wire or other approved devices shall be installed above the panels to prevent vertical displacement under such upward force.
In 1-hour fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assemblies, the ceiling
membrane is not required to be installed over crawl spaces that are not intended for occupancy or
storage and that are less than 24 inches (609.6 mm) in height. Where the ceiling membrane is not
provided, occupancy or storage is not permitted in the crawl space.
In 1-hour fire-resistance-rated roof assemblies, the floor membrane is not
required to be installed where the attic space above the floor membrane is not intended for
occupancy or storage. Where the floor membrane is not provided, occupancy or storage is not
permitted in the attic space.
Protection by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in
accordance with NFPA 13, as modified by Appendix Q of this code, shall be permitted where
the area of the vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected
area of the escalator or stairway. In other than Groups B and M, this application is limited to
openings that do not connect more than four stories.
Protection of the vertical opening by approved shutters at
every penetrated floor shall be permitted in accordance with this section. The shutters shall be
of noncombustible construction and have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1.5 hours.
The shutter shall be so constructed as to close immediately upon the actuation of a smoke
detector installed in accordance with Section 907.3.1 and shall completely shut off the well
opening. Escalators shall cease operation when the shutter begins to close. The shutter shall
operate at a speed of not more than 30 feet per minute (152.4 mm/s) and shall be equipped
with a sensitive leading edge to arrest its progress where in contact with any obstacle, and to
continue its progress on release there from.
Joints made in or between horizontal
assemblies shall comply with Section 715. The void created at the intersection of a
floor/ceiling assembly and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be permitted where
protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings shall
be protected in accordance with Section 717. Grease ducts shall be protected in accordance with
the New York City Mechanical Code.
In other than Groups I-2 and I-3, a vertical opening that is not used as one of the applications listed in this section shall be permitted if the opening complies with all of the items below:
Vertical openings for automobile ramps in open and enclosed
parking garages shall be permitted where constructed in accordance with Sections 406.5 and
406.6, respectively.
Vertical openings for elevator hoistways in open and enclosed parking
garages that serve only the parking garage, and complying with Sections 406.5 and 406.6,
respectively, shall be permitted.
Vertical openings for mechanical exhaust or supply duct systems
in open or enclosed parking garages complying with Sections 406.5 and 406.6, respectively,
shall be permitted to be unenclosed where such duct system is contained within and serves
only the parking garage.
Access doors shall be permitted in ceilings of fire-resistance-rated
floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies, provided such doors are tested in accordance with
ASTM E 119 or UL 263 as horizontal assemblies and labeled by an approved agency for such
purpose.
The provisions of this section shall apply to shafts required to protect openings and
penetrations through floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall
be enclosed in accordance with Section 1023.
Exception:
Noncombustible materials shall be used for shaft enclosures in Group I-1, R-1 and
R-2 buildings irrespective of the building type of construction.
Exception: A shaft enclosure of a refuse or laundry chute shall extend through combustible or noncombustible roof construction not less than 6 feet (1828.9 mm) above the roof.
Exception: For no more than one interior exit stairway or ramp in a building, doors serving such enclosure may be automatic-closing by smoke detection provided that all the following conditions are satisfied:
Is a high-rise office building, as such term is defined in Section 27-232 of the Administrative Code, that is 100 feet (30 480 mm) or more in height, equipped with a fire alarm system and subdivided into compartments pursuant to subdivision c of Section 27-339 of the Administrative Code.
Such doors serve no more than three levels within such vertical exit enclosure, which must be consecutive levels.
All levels served by such doors are served by not less than one other exit.
Such doors are connected to a fire alarm system and installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and Section 716.5.9.3 of this code.
Are capable of manual release at the fire command center, or if a fire command center is not required, at a fire alarm control panel that is near the main building entrance; and
Are capable of manual release by pulling the doors to the closed position.
They shall terminate in a room having a use related to the purpose of the shaft. The room shall be separated from the remainder of the building by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating and opening protectives shall be not less than the protection required for the shaft enclosure.
Exceptions:
The fire-resistance-rated room separation is not required, provided there are no openings in or penetrations of the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building except at the bottom. The bottom of the shaft shall be closed off around the penetrating items with materials permitted by Section 718.3.1 for draftstopping, or the room shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
A shaft enclosure containing a waste or linen chute shall not be used for any other purpose and shall discharge into a room protected in accordance with Section 713.13.4.
The fire-resistance-rated room separation and the protection at the bottom of the shaft are not required provided there are no combustibles in the shaft and there are no openings or other penetrations through the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building.
They shall terminate in a room having a use related to the purpose of the shaft. The room
shall be separated from the remainder of the building by construction having a fire-resistance
rating and opening protective not less than the protection required for the shaft enclosure.
All closed shafts, including vertical exit enclosures, having a floor area exceeding 4 square feet (0.37 m2) shall be provided with a smoke vent in accordance with Sections 713.12.1.1 through 713.12.1.3. Interior vertical exitshaft enclosures shall also comply with Chapter 10.
Smoke vents may be constructed as windows, louvers, skylights, vent ducts, or similar devices, and shall be approved for such use. Where a vent duct is installed, such vent duct shall be enclosed by construction having the same fire-resistance rating as required for the shaft enclosure.
The effective venting area shall be not less than 31/2
percent of the maximum shaftarea at any floor, but in no event less than 72 square inches
(46 451.5 mm2).
Where a closed shaft or smoke
vent duct penetrates through the roof of the building, the vent shall be approved for such
use and located as follows:
The vent shall be located not less than 8 inches (203.2 mm) above a
noncombustible roof assembly or not less than 36 inches (914.4 mm) above a
combustible roof assembly.
The vent shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from any window, door,
exterior stairway, or interior lot line. The vent may be located not less than 5 feet
(1524 mm) from any window or door provided that the vent is located at a point
higher than the top of such window or door.
Where the vent is constructed as a window or louver, the sill of the window or
louver shall be located not less than 36 inches (914.4 mm) above the roof
assembly.
Where a smoke vent is located
in an exterior wall, openings in the wall are prohibited within an area 30 feet (9144 mm)
vertically above the vent opening and 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally on either side of the
vent opening.
Waste and
linen chutes, and discharge rooms for such chutes, shall comply with the provisions of NFPA 82, Chapter 6 of this code and shall meet the requirements of Sections 713.13.1 through 713.13.6 of this
code. Incinerator rooms shall meet the provisions of Sections 713.13.4 through 713.13.5 of this code.
Exception:
Chutes serving and contained within a single dwelling unit.
A shaft enclosure containing a recycling, or waste or linen chute, and any associated discharge room, shall not be used for any other purpose and shall have a fire-resistance rating of 2 hours. Openings into the shaft, including those from access rooms and discharge rooms, shall be protected in accordance with this section and Section 716. Openings into chutes shall not be located in corridors. Doors into chutes shall be self-closing. Discharge doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon the actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3, except that heat-activated closing devices shall be permitted between the shaft and the discharge room.
. Access openings for waste and linen chutes shall
be located in dedicated rooms or compartments enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers
constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance
with Section 711 or both. Openings into the access rooms shall be protected by opening
protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 11
/2 hours. Doors to access rooms shall
be self-closing, except where the storage of waste, including recyclables, or linen and other
laundry, is not permitted in such access room, doors may be automatic-closing upon the detection
of smoke in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3.
Exception:
Access openings for waste or linen chutes located within a dwelling unit need not
be located within a separate room or compartment.
Waste or linen chutes shall discharge into an enclosed room
separated by not less than 3-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or by
horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings into the
discharge room from the remainder of the building shall be protected by opening protectives
having a fire protection rating equal to the protection required for the shaft enclosure. Doors shall
be self- or automatic-closing upon the detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3.
Waste chutes shall not terminate in an incinerator room. Waste and linen rooms that are not
provided with chutes need only comply with Table 509.
Exception:
Opening protectives shall not be required at a waste or linen chute opening to a
discharge room.
Penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls by ducts that are not protected with dampers shall comply with Sections 714.2 through 714.3.3. Penetrations of horizontal assemblies not protected with a shaft as permitted by Section 717.6, and not required to be protected with fire dampers by other sections of this code, shall comply with Sections 714.4 through 714.5.2. Ducts and air transfer openings that are protected with dampers shall comply with Section 717.
Where sleeves are used, they shall be securely fastened to the assembly penetrated. The space between the item contained in the sleeve and the sleeve itself and any space between the sleeve and the assembly penetrated shall be protected in accordance with this section. Insulation and coverings on or in the penetrating item shall not penetrate the assembly unless the specific material used has been tested as part of the assembly in accordance with this section.
Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space between the penetrating item and the fire-resistance-rated wall is permitted to be protected by either of the following measures:
In concrete or masonrywalls where the penetrating item is a maximum 6-inch (152.4 mm) nominal diameter and the area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (92 903 mm2), concrete, grout or mortar is permitted where installed the full thickness of the wall or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating.
The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E 119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.
Through-penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system
installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E 814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive
pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water and shall have an F rating of not less than
the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated.
Membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (0.0103 m2) in area provided the aggregate area of the openings does not exceed 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) for any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wallarea. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm). Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall or partition shall be separated by one of the following:
By a horizontal distance of not less than 24 inches (609.6 mm) where the wall or partition is constructed with individual noncommunicating stud cavities;
By a horizontal distance of not less than the depth of the wall cavity where the wall cavity is filled with cellulose loose-fill, rock wool or slag mineral wool insulation;
By protecting both outlet boxes with listed putty pads; or
By other listed materials and methods.
Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material, provided such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the wall membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) unless listed otherwise. Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall or partition shall be separated by one of the following:
By the horizontal distance specified in the listing of the electrical boxes;
By protecting both boxes with listed putty pads; or
By other listed materials and methods.
Membrane penetrations by electrical boxes of any size or type, that have been listed as part of a wall opening protective material system for use in fire-resistance rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
Membrane penetrations by boxes other than electrical boxes, provided such penetrating items and the annular space between the wall membrane and the box, are protected by an approved membrane-penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E 814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water, and shall have an F and T rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated and be installed in accordance with their listing.
The annular space created by the penetration of an automatic sprinkler, provided it is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.
Membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour fire resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel electrical boxes that exceed 16 square inches (0.0103 m2) in area, or steel electrical boxes of any size having an aggregate area through the membrane exceeding 100 square inches (0.0645 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of wallarea, provided such penetrating items are protected by listed putty pads or other listed materials and methods, and installed in accordance with the listing.
Noncombustible penetrating items shall not connect to combustible items beyond the point of fire stopping unless it can be demonstrated to the commissioner that the fire-resistance integrity of the wall is maintained.
Penetrations of a fire-resistance-rated floor, floor/ceiling assembly or the ceiling membrane of a roof/ceiling assembly not required to be enclosed in a shaft by Section 711.1 shall be protected in accordance with Sections 714.4.1 through 714.4.2.2.
Penetrations by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents or concrete or masonry items through a single fire-resistance-rated floor assembly where the annular space is protected with materials that prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E 119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated. Penetrating items with a maximum 6-inch (152.4 mm) nominal diameter shall not be limited to the penetration of a single fire-resistance-rated floor assembly, provided the aggregate area of the penetrations does not exceed 144 square inches (92 903 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of floor area.
Penetrations in a single concrete floor by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents with a maximum 6-inch (152.4 mm) nominal diameter, provided that the concrete, grout or mortar is installed the full thickness of the floor or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating. The penetrating items shall not be limited to the penetration of a single concrete floor, provided the area of the opening through each floor does not exceed 144 square inches (92 903 mm2).
Penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material provided that such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
Through-penetrations shall be protected by an approved through-penetration
firestop system installed and tested in accordance with ASTM E 814 or UL 1479, with a
minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water. The system shall have
both, an F rating (flame) and a T rating (temperature) of not less than 1 hour but not less than
the required rating of the floor penetrated.
Exceptions:
Floor penetrations contained and located within the cavity of a wall do not require
a T rating.
Floor penetrations by floor drains, tub drains or shower drains contained and
located within the concealed space of a horizontal assembly do not require a T
rating.
Floor penetrations of maximum 4-inch (101.6 mm) nominal diameter penetrating
directly into metal-enclosed electrical power switchgear do not require a T rating.
Membrane penetrations by steel, ferrous or copper conduits, pipes, tubes or vents, or concrete or masonry items where the annular space is protected either in accordance with Section 714.4.1 or to prevent the free passage of flame and the products of combustion. The aggregate area of the openings through the membrane shall not exceed 100 square inches (64 500 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of ceiling area in assemblies tested without penetrations.
Ceiling membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour horizontal assemblies by steel electrical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches (10 323 mm2) in area, provided the aggregate area of such penetrations does not exceed 100 square inches (64 516 mm2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of ceiling area, and the annular space between the ceiling membrane and the box does not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
Membrane penetrations by electrical boxes of any size or type that have been listed as part of an opening protective material system for use in horizontal assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.
Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes of any material, provided such boxes have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing. The annular space between the ceiling membrane and the box shall not exceed 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) unless listed otherwise.
The annular space created by the penetration of a fire sprinkler, provided it is covered by a metal escutcheon plate.
Noncombustible items that are cast into concretebuilding elements and that do not penetrate both top and bottom surfaces of the element, provided such items are installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.
The ceiling membrane of 1- and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies is permitted to be interrupted with the double wood top plate of a wall assembly that is sheathed with Type X gypsum wallboard, provided that all penetrating items through the double top plates are protected in accordance with Section 714.4.1.1 or 714.4.1.2 and the ceiling membrane is tight to the top plates.
Penetrations in smoke barriers shall be protected by an
approved through-penetration firestop system installed and tested in accordance with the
requirements of UL 1479 for air leakage. The L rating of the system measured at 0.30 inch (7.47
Pa) of water in both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests shall not exceed:
5.0 cfm per square foot (0.025 m3
/ s • m2
) of penetration opening for each through penetration firestop system; or
A total cumulative leakage of 50 cfm (0.024 m3
/s) for any 100 square feet (9.3 m2
) of wallarea, or floor area.
Penetrations of nonfire-resistance-rated floor
or floor/ceiling assemblies or the ceiling membrane of a nonfire-resistance-rated roof/ceiling
assembly shall meet the requirements of Section 713 or shall comply with Section 714.5.1 or 714.5.2.
Noncombustible penetrating items that connect not more than three stories are permitted provided that the annular space is filled with an approved noncombustible material or with a fill, void or cavity material that is tested and classified for use in through-penetration firestop systems.
Penetrating items that connect not more than two stories are permitted provided that the annular space is filled with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
The void created at the intersection of a floor/ceiling assembly
and an exterior curtain wall assembly shall be protected in accordance with Section 715.4.
A fire-resistant joint system shall be securely
installed in accordance with the listing criteria in or on the joint for its entire length so as not to
dislodge, loosen or otherwise impair the joint system's ability to accommodate expected building
movements and to resist the passage of fire and hot gases.
Fire-resistant joint systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of either ASTM E 1966 or UL 2079. Nonsymmetrical walljoint systems shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the commissioner, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side.
Exception: For exterior walls with a horizontal fire separation distance greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the joint system shall be required to be tested for interior fire exposure only.
Where fire resistance-rated floor or
floor/ceiling assemblies are required, voids created at the intersection of the exterior curtain wall
assemblies and such floor assemblies shall be sealed with an approved system to prevent the interior
spread of fire. Such systems shall be securely installed and tested in accordance with ASTM E 2307
to provide an F rating for a time period not less
than the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly. Height and fire-resistance requirements for curtain wall spandrels
shall comply with Section 705.8.5.
Exception:
Voids created at the intersection of the exterior curtain wall assemblies and such floor
assemblies where the vision glass extends to the finished floor level shall be permitted to be sealed
with an approved material to prevent the interior spread of fire. Such material shall be securely
installed and capable of preventing the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton
waste where subjected to ASTM E 119 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (0.254 mm) of water column (2.5 Pa) for the time period
not less than the fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly.
Voids
created at the intersection of exterior curtain wall assemblies and nonfire-resistance-rated floor or
floor/ceiling assemblies shall be sealed with an approved material or system to retard the interior
spread of fire and hot gases between stories.
Voids created at the
intersection of nonfire-resistance-rated exterior curtain wall assemblies and fire barriers shall be
filled. An approved material or system shall be used to fill the void and shall be securely installed
in or on the intersection for its entire length so as not to dislodge, loosen or otherwise impair its
ability to accommodate expected building movements and to retard the passage of fire and hot
gases.
Fire-resistant joint systems in smoke
barriers, and joints at the intersection of a horizontal smoke barrier and an exterior curtain wall, shall
be tested in accordance with the requirements of UL 2079 for air leakage. The L
rating of the joint system shall not exceed 5 cfm per linear foot (0.00775 m3
/s m) of joint at
0.30 inch (7.47 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests.
Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated wall or floor/ceiling assembly in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 and labeled in accordance with Section 703.6 shall not otherwise be required to comply with this section where used as part of a wall or floor/ceiling assembly. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall be permitted in fire door and fire window assemblies where tested and installed in accordance with their listings and where in compliance with the requirements of this section.
For fire-rated glazing, the label shall bear the
identification required in Tables 716.3 and 716.5. "D" indicates that the glazing is permitted to be
used in fire door assemblies and that the glazing meets the fire protection requirements of NFPA
252. "H" shall indicate that the glazing meets the hose stream requirements of NFPA 252. "T"
shall indicate that the glazing meets the temperature requirements of Section 716.5.5.1. The
placeholder "XXX" represents the fire-rating period, in minutes.
For fire-protection-rated glazing, the label
shall bear the following identification required in Tables 716.3 and 716.6: "OH — XXX." "OH"
indicates that the glazing meets both the fire protection and the hose-stream requirements of
NFPA 257 or UL 9 and is permitted to be used in fire window openings. The placeholder "XXX"
represents the fire-rating period, in minutes.
Fire-rated glazing assemblies
marked as complying with hose stream requirements (H) shall be permitted in applications that
do not require compliance with hose stream requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked
as complying with temperature rise requirements (T) shall be permitted in applications that do not
require compliance with temperature rise requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked
with ratings (XXX) that exceed the ratings required by this code shall be permitted.
The application of any of the alternative methods listed in this section shall be based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in NFPA 252, NFPA 257 or UL 9. The required fire resistance of an opening protective shall be permitted to be established by any of the following methods or procedures:
Designs documented in approved sources.
Calculations performed in an approved manner.
Engineering analysis based on a comparison of opening protective designs having fire protection ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in NFPA 252, NFPA 257 or UL 9.
Alternative protection methods as allowed by Section 28-113.2 of the Administrative Code.
Approved fire door and fire shutter assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Section 716.5.1, 716.5.2 or 716.5.3 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.5. Fire door frames with transom lights, sidelights or both shall be permitted in accordance with Section 716.5.6. Fire door assemblies and shutters shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of this section and NFPA 80.
Exceptions:
Labeled protective assemblies that conform to the requirements of this section or UL 10A, UL 14B and UL 14C for tin-clad fire door assemblies.
Fire door assemblies with side-hinged and pivoted swinging doors shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10C. After 5 minutes into the NFPA 252 test, the neutral pressure level in the furnace shall be established at 40 inches (1016 mm) or less above the sill.
Fire door assemblies with other types of doors,
including swinging elevator doors, horizontal sliding fire door assemblies, and fire shutter
assemblies, bottom and side-hinged chute intake doors, and top-hinged chute discharge doors,
shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10B. The pressure in the furnace shall be
maintained as nearly equal to the atmospheric pressure as possible. Once established, the pressure
shall be maintained during the entire test period.
Viewports that require a hole not larger than 1 inch ( 25.4 mm) in diameter through the door, have not less than a 0.25-inch (6.4 mm) thick glass discand the holder is of metal that will not melt out where subject to temperatures of 1,700°F (926.7°C).
Fire door assemblies shall meet the requirements for a smoke and draft control door assembly tested in accordance with UL 1784. The air leakage rate of the door assembly shall not exceed 3.0 cubic feet per minute per square foot (0.01524 m3/s • m2) of door opening at 0.10 inch (24.9 Pa) of water for both the ambient temperature and elevated temperature tests. Louvers shall be prohibited. Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance with NFPA 105.
Glazing material in any other part of the door assembly, including transom lights and sidelights, shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 257 or UL 9, including the hose stream test, in accordance with Section 716.6
of this code.
Fire door assemblies in interior exit stairways and ramps and exit
passageways shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise of not more than
450°F (232.2°C) above ambient at the end of 30 minutes of standard fire test exposure.
Fire-protection-rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (0.065 m2) is not permitted. Fire-resistance rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (64 516 mm2) shall be permitted in fire doors. Listed fire-resistance-rated glazing in a fire door shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise in accordance with Section 716.5.5 of this code when the fire door is tested in accordance with NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C.
Door frames with transom lights, sidelights or both, shall be permitted where a 3/4-hour fire protection rating or less is required in accordance with Table 716.5. Fire door frames with transom lights, sidelights, or both, installed with fire-resistance-rated glazing tested as an assembly in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall be permitted where a fire protection rating exceeding 3/4 hour is required in accordance with Table 716.5 of this code.
Fire doors shall be labeled showing
the name of the manufacturer or other identification readily traceable back to the
manufacturer, the name or trademark of the third-party inspection agency, the fire protection
rating and, where required for fire doors in interior exit stairways and ramps and
exit passageways by Section 716.5.5, the maximum transmitted temperature end
point. Smoke and draft control doors complying with UL 1784 shall be labeled as such and
shall comply with Section 716.5.7. Labels shall be approved and permanently
affixed. The label shall be applied at the factory or location where fabrication and assembly
are performed.
Listed vision light kits and
louvers and their required preparations shall be considered as part of the labeled door
where such installations are listed and where quality assurance testing is done under the
listing program of the third-party testing agency. Fire doors and door assemblies shall be
permitted to consist of components, including glazing, vision light kits and hardware that
are listed or classified and labeled for such use by different third-party agencies.
Oversized fire doors shall bear an oversized fire doorlabel by an approved agency or shall be provided with a certificate of inspection furnished by
an approved testing agency. Where a certificate of inspection is furnished by an
approved testing agency, the certificate shall state that the door conforms to the requirements
of design, materials and construction, but has not been subjected to the fire test.
Smoke and
draft control doors complying with UL 1784 shall be labeled in accordance with Section
716.5.7.1 and shall show the letter "S" on the fire rating label of the door. This
marking shall indicate that the door and frame assembly are in compliance where listed
or labeled gasketing is installed.
. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations
in Section 716.5.8.1.1. Fire-protection-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations of
NFPA 80, and as provided in Section 716.5.8.1.2.
Fire-rated glazing shall bear a label or
other identification showing the name of the manufacturer, the test standard and information
required in Table 716.3 that shall be issued by an approved agency and
shall be permanently identified on the glazing.
The elevator car doors and the associated hoistway enclosure doors at the floor level designated for recall in accordance with Section 3003.2 shall be permitted to remain open during Phase I emergency recall operation.
Unless otherwise specifically permitted, single fire doors and both leaves of pairs of side-hinged swinging fire doors shall be provided with an active latch bolt that will secure the door when it is closed.
Automatic-closing fire doors installed in the following locations shall be automatic- closing by the actuation of smoke detectors installed in accordance with Section 907.3 or by loss of power to the smoke detector where such
detector is powered by the building's normal electrical service or by loss of power to the hold-open device. Doors that are automatic-closing by smoke detection shall not have more than a 10-second delay before the door starts to close after the smoke detector is actuated.
Doors installed in waste and linen chutes, discharge
openings and access and discharge rooms in accordance with Section
713.13. Loading doors installed in waste and linen chutes shall meet the
requirements of Sections 716.5.9 and 716.5.9.1.1.
Doors installed in the walls for compartmentation of underground buildings in accordance with Section 405.4.2.
Doors installed in the elevator lobby walls of underground buildings in accordance with Section 405.4.3.
Vertical sliding or vertical rolling steel fire doors in openings through which pedestrian's travel shall be heat activated or activated by smoke detectors with alarm verification.
Where fire shutters of the swinging type are installed
in exterior openings, not less than one row in every three vertical rows shall be arranged to be
readily opened from the outside, and shall be identified by distinguishing marks or letters not less
than 6 inches (152.4 mm) high.
Glazing in fire window assemblies shall be fire protection rated in accordance with this section and Table 716.6. Glazing in fire door assemblies shall comply with Section 716.5.8. Fire-protection-rated glazing in fire window assemblies shall be tested in accordance with and shall meet the acceptance criteria of NFPA 257 or UL 9. Fire-protection-rated glazing shall comply with NFPA 80. Openings in nonfire-resistance-rated exterior wall assemblies that require protection in accordance with Section 705.3, 705.8, 705.8.5 or 705.8.6 shall have a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
NFPA 257 or UL 9 shall evaluate fire-protection-rated glazing under positive pressure. Within the first 10 minutes of a test, the pressure in the furnace shall be adjusted so not less than two-thirds of the test specimen is above the neutral pressure plane, and the neutral pressure plane shall be maintained at that height for the balance of the test.
Glazing in fire window assemblies shall be fire-protection-rated glazing installed in accordance with and complying with the size limitations set forth in NFPA 80.
Metal mullions that exceed a nominal height of 12 feet (3658 mm) shall be protected with materials to afford the same fire-resistance rating as required for the wallconstruction in which the protective is located.
Fireprotection-rated glazing requiring 45-minute opening protection in accordance with Table
716.6 shall be limited to fire partitions designed in accordance with Section 708
and fire barriers utilized in the applications set forth in Sections 707.3.6, 707.3.7 and
707.3.9 where the fire-resistance rating does not exceed 1 hour. Fire-resistance-rated glazing
assemblies tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 shall not be subject to the
limitations of this section.
Fire-protection-rated glazing shall bear a label or other
identification showing the name of the manufacturer, the test standard and information required
in Section 716.3.2 and Table 716.6 that shall be issued by an approved agency and
permanently identified on the glazing.
The provisions of this section shall govern the protection of duct penetrations and air transfer openings in assemblies required to be protected and duct penetrations in nonfire-resistance-rated floor assemblies.
Ducts transitioning horizontally between shafts shall
not require a shaft enclosure provided that the duct penetration into each associated shaft is
protected with dampers complying with this section.
Ducts that penetrate fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are not required by this section to have
dampers shall comply with the requirements of Sections 714.2 through 714.3.3.
Ducts that penetrate horizontal assemblies not required to be contained within a shaft and not
required by this section to have dampers shall comply with the requirements of
Sections 714.4 through 714.5.2.
Where the installation of a fire damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized. Where mechanical systems including ducts and dampers utilized for normal building ventilation serve as part of the smoke control system, the expected performance of these systems in smoke control mode shall be addressed in the rational analysis required by Section 909.4.
Dampers shall be listed and labeled in accordance with the standards in this section.
Fire dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555. Only fire dampers and ceiling radiation dampers labeled for use in dynamic systems shall be installed in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems designed to operate with fans on during a fire.
Smoke dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555S.
Ceiling radiation dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL 555C or shall be tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263.
The fire damper actuation device shall meet one of the following requirements:
The operating temperature shall be approximately 50°F (10°C) above the normal temperature within the duct system, but not less than 160°F (71.1°C).
The operating temperature shall be not more than 350°F (176.7°C) where located in a smoke control system complying with Section 909.
The smoke damper shall close upon actuation of a listed smoke detector or detectors installed in accordance with Section 907.3 and one of the following methods, as applicable:
Where a smoke damper is installed within a duct, a smoke detector shall be installed inside the duct or outside the duct with sampling tubes protruding into the duct. The detector or tubes within the duct shall be within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the damper . Air outlets and inlets shall not be located between the detector or tubes and the damper. The detector shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity anticipated at the point where it is installed. Other than in mechanical smoke control systems, dampers shall be closed upon fan shutdown where local smoke detectors require a minimum velocity to operate.
Exceptions:
Duct smoke detectors will not be required at each fire smoke damper provided the supply fan shall shut down and all the fire smoke dampers associated with the supply system automatically close upon actuation of any automatic alarm initiating device on the floor(s).
Duct smoke detectors will be required within 5 feet (1.5 m) downstream of any electric duct reheat coil.
Non-ducted return air systems shall have a smoke detector located within 5 feet (1.5 m) upstream of each return air protected opening in a 2-hour fire-rated barrier.
Ducted return air systems shall have a duct smoke detector located within 5 feet (1.5 m) of a smoke damper; additional smoke detectors will not be required at fire smoke dampers located downstream where there are no additional return air inlets.
Where a smoke damper is installed above smoke barrier doors in a smoke barrier, a spot-type detector shall be installed on either side of the smoke barrier door opening. The detector shall be listed for releasing service if used for direct interface with the damper.
Where a smoke damper is installed within an unducted opening in a wall, a spot-type detector shall be installed within 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally of the damper. The detector shall be listed for releasing service if used for direct interface with the damper.
Where a smoke damper is installed in a corridorwall or ceiling, the damper shall be permitted to be controlled by a smoke detection system installed in the corridor.
Where a smoke detection system is installed in all areas served by duct in which the damper will be located, the smoke dampers shall be permitted to be controlled by the smoke detection system.
The operating temperature of a
ceiling radiation damper actuation device shall be 50°F (10°C) above the normal
temperature within the duct system, but not less than 160°F (71.1°C).
Fire and smoke dampers shall be provided with an approved means of access that is large enough to permit inspection and maintenance of the damper and its operating parts. The access shall not affect the integrity of fire-resistance-rated assemblies. The access openings shall not reduce the fire-resistance rating of the assembly. Access points shall be permanently identified on the exterior by a label having letters not less than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in height reading: FIRE/SMOKE DAMPER, SMOKE DAMPER or FIRE DAMPER followed by an identification marking that is individual and unique to the damper accessed.
Exception:Smoke dampers shall not be required in ducts where the air continues to move and the air-handling system installed is arranged to prevent recirculation of exhaust or return air under fire emergency conditions. The air-handling system shall be continuously monitored
to ensure continuous airflow at a constantly attended location and be inspected and maintained
in accordance with the system manufacturer's instructions.
A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point that a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire wall that serves as a horizontal exit.
Exception:Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of fire barriers where any of the following apply:
Penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.
Ducts are used as part of an engineered smoke control system in accordance with
Sections 717.2.1 and 909 of this code where the use of a
fire damper would interfere with the operation of a smoke control system.
Such walls are penetrated by ducted HVAC systems, have a required fire-resistance
rating of 1 hour or less, are in areas of other than Group H and are in buildings
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or Section 903.3.1.2 of this code. For the purposes of this exception, a ducted
HVAC system shall be a duct system for conveying supply, return or exhaust air as
part of the structure's HVAC system. Such a duct system shall be constructed of sheet
steel not less than No. 26 gage thickness and shall be continuous from the air-handling
appliance or equipment to the air outlet and inlet terminals.
A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire barrier that serves as a horizontal exit.
A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a public corridorwall or floor constructed as a fire barrier.
Exceptions:
Smoke dampers are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an engineered smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, and smoke dampers are not necessary for the operation and control of the system.
Smoke dampers are not required in corridor penetrations where the duct is constructed of steel not less than 0.019-inch (0.48 mm) in thickness and there are no openings serving the corridor.
Smoke dampers shall not be required in ducts where the air continues to move and the air-handling system installed is arranged to prevent recirculation of exhaust or return air under fire emergency conditions. The air-handling system shall be continuously monitored to ensure continuous airflow at a constantly attended location and be inspected and maintained in accordance with the system manufacturer's instructions.
Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate a shaft serving as an exit enclosure except as permitted by Section 1023.5. Shaft enclosures that are permitted to be penetrated by ducts and air transfer openings shall be protected with approved fire and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
Exceptions:
Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where any of the following criteria are met:
In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Chapter 9, steel exhaust subducts having minimum thickness of 0.0187 inch (0.4712 mm) (No. 26 gage) extend not less than 22 inches (558.8 mm) vertically in exhaust shafts provided that there is a continuous airflow upward to the outdoors whenever the building is occupied.
Penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.
Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system designed and installed in accordance with Section 909, and where the fire damper will interfere with the operation of the smoke control system.
Smoke dampers are not required in exhaust ducts or shafts where the exhaust fan is maintained in operation whenever the building is occupied, in bathrooms and toilet room exhausts.
Fire dampers and/or smoke dampers are not required at a shaft where the shaft is acting as an extension of the mechanical equipment room that it serves and the shaft and mechanical equipment room maintain fire and smoke separation required by the greater of the two spaces from the occupied portions of the building and meet the requirements of Sections 713.11 and 713.12.
Smoke dampers are not required in ducts where the air continues to move and the air-handling system installed is arranged to prevent recirculation of exhaust or return air during a fire emergency condition. Such fans shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Chapter 27.
The fire partitions are for tenant partitions in covered mall buildings where the walls are not required by provisions elsewhere in the code to extend to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above.
The duct system is constructed of approved materials in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code and the duct penetrating the wall complies with all of the following requirements:
The duct shall not exceed 100 square inches (64 516 mm2).
The duct shall be constructed of steel not less than 0.0217 inch (0.55 mm) in thickness.
The duct shall not have openings that communicate the corridor with adjacent spaces or rooms.
A minimum 12-inch-long (304.8 mm) by 0.060-inch (1.52 mm) thick steel sleeve shall be centered in each duct opening. The sleeve shall be secured to both sides of the wall and all four sides of the sleeve with minimum 11/2-inch by 11/2-inch by 0.060-inch (38.1 mm by 38.1 mm by 1.52 mm) steel retaining angles. The retaining angles shall be secured to the sleeve and the wall with No. 10 (M5) screws. The annular space between the steel sleeve and the wall opening shall be filled with mineral wool batting or approved equivalent on all sides.
Such walls are penetrated by ducted HVAC systems, have a required fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or less, and are in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. For the purposes of this exception, a ducted HVAC system shall be a duct system for conveying supply, return or exhaust air as part of the structure's HVAC system. Such a duct system shall be constructed of sheet steel not less than No. 26 gage thickness and shall be continuous from the air-handling appliance or equipment to the air outlet and inlet terminals.
Smoke dampers are not required where the openings in ducts are limited to a single smoke compartment and the ducts are constructed of steel.
Smoke dampers are not required in ducts where the air continues to move and the air-handling system installed is arranged to prevent recirculation of exhaust or return air under fire emergency conditions.
Ducts and air transfer openings in fire-resistance-rated exterior walls required to have protected openings in accordance with Section 705.10 shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
Exception: Where the installation of a smoke damper will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, approved alternative protection shall be utilized.
Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings of a floor, floor/ceiling assembly or the ceiling membrane of a roof/ceiling assembly shall be protected by a shaft enclosure that complies with Section 713 or shall comply with Sections 717.6.1 through 717.6.3.
In occupancies other than Groups I-2 and I-3, a duct and air transfer opening system constructed of approved materials in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code that penetrates a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assembly that connects not more than two stories is permitted without shaft enclosure protection provided a listed fire damper is installed at the floor line or the duct is protected in accordance with Section 714.4. For air transfer openings, see Section 712.1.9.
Exception: A duct serving a dwelling unit is permitted to penetrate three floors or less without a fire damper at each floor, provided such duct meets all of the following requirements:
The duct shall be contained and located within the cavity of a wall and shall be constructed of steel having a minimum wall thickness of 0.0187 inches (0.4749 mm) (No. 26 gage).
The duct shall open into only one dwelling or sleeping unit and the duct system shall be continuous from the unit to the exterior of the building.
The duct shall not exceed 5-inch (127 mm) nominal diameter and the total area of such ducts shall not exceed 100 square inches (0.065 m2) in any 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of floor area.
The annular space around the duct is protected with materials that prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to ASTM E 119 or UL 263 time-temperature conditions under a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch (2.49 Pa) of water at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the construction penetrated.
Ducts and air transfer openings constructed of approved materials in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code that penetrate the ceiling membrane of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assembly or roof/ceiling assembly shall be protected with one of the following:
A listed ceiling radiation damper and firestopping is installed at the ceiling line where a diffuser with no duct attached penetrates the ceiling of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assembly or roof/ceiling assembly.
Where exhaust duct penetrations are protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2 of this code, are located within the cavity of a wall and do not pass through another dwelling unit or tenant space.
Where duct and air transfer openings are protected with a duct outlet protection system
tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL
263.
Duct systems constructed of approved materials in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code that penetrate nonfire-resistance-rated floor assemblies shall be protected by any of the following methods:
The duct connects not more than two stories and the annular space around the penetrating duct is protected with a listed noncombustible material that resists the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
In floor assemblies composed of noncombustible materials, a shaft shall not be required where the duct connects not more than three stories, the annular space around the penetrating duct is protected with an approved noncombustible material that resists the free passage of flame and the products of combustion and a fire damper is installed at each floor line.
Flexible ducts and air connectors shall not pass through any fire-resistance-rated assembly. Flexible air connectors shall not pass through any wall, floor or ceiling.
Fireblocking and draftstopping shall be installed in combustible and noncombustible concealed locations in accordance with this section. Fireblocking shall comply with Section 718.2. Draftstopping in floor/ceiling spaces and attic spaces shall comply with Sections 718.3 and 718.4, respectively. The permitted use of combustible materials in concealed spaces of buildings of Type I or II construction shall be limited to the applications indicated in Section 718.5. Installations of fireblocking and draftstopping shall comply with the special inspection requirements of Chapter 17.
In combustible and noncombustible construction, fireblocking shall be installed to cut off concealed draft openings (both vertical and horizontal) and shall form an effective barrier between floors, between a top story and a roof or attic space. Fireblocking shall be installed in the locations specified in Sections 718.2.2 through 718.2.7.
Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other listed nonrigid materials shall be permitted for compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.
Unfaced fiberglass batt insulation used as fireblocking shall fill the entire cross section of the wall cavity to a minimum height of 16 inches (406.4 mm) measured vertically. Where piping, conduit or similar obstructions are encountered, the insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruction.
Loose-fill insulation material, insulating foam sealants and caulk materials shall not be used as a fireblock unless specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and to retard the spread of fire and hot gases.
Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be allowed as fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs.
Fireblocking shall be provided at interconnections between concealed vertical stud wall or partition spaces and concealed horizontal spaces created by an assembly of floor joists or trusses, and between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces such as occur at soffits, drop ceilings, cove ceilings and similar locations.
Where required by Section 712.1.8, Exception 1 of Section 714.4.2, or Section 714.5, fireblocking of the annular space around vents, pipes, ducts, chimneys and fireplaces at ceiling and floor levels shall be installed with a material specifically tested in the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and resist the free passage of flame and the products of combustion.
Fireblocking shall be installed within concealed spaces of exterior wall coverings and other exterior architectural elements where permitted to be of combustible construction as specified in Section 1406 or where erected with combustible frames, at maximum intervals of 20 feet (6096 mm) so that there will be no open space exceeding 100 square feet (9.3 m2). Where wood furring strips are used, they shall be of approved wood of natural decay resistance or preservative-treated wood. If non-continuous, such elements shall have closed ends, with at least 4 inches ( 101.6 mm) of separation between sections. For the purposes of this section, fenestration products, and flashing of fenestration products and water-resistive barrier flashing and accessories at other locations, including through wall flashings and attachment accessories, shall not be considered combustible construction.
Where wood sleepers are used for laying wood flooring on masonry or concretefire-resistance-rated floors, the space between the floor slab and the underside of the wood flooring shall be filled with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and products of combustion or fireblocked in such a manner that there will be no open spaces under the flooring that will exceed 20 square feet (1.86 m2) in area and such space shall be filled solidly under permanent partitions so that there is no communication under the flooring between adjoining rooms.
Exceptions:
Fireblocking is not required for slab-on-grade floors in gymnasiums.
Fireblocking is required only at the juncture of each alternate lane and at the ends of each lane in a bowling facility.
In combustible and noncombustible construction, draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide floor/ceiling assemblies in the locations prescribed in Sections 718.3.2 through 718.3.3.
In noncombustible construction, draftstopping shall be of noncombustible materials. In combustible construction, draftstopping materials shall be not less than 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panel, 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) particleboard, 1-inch (25 mm) nominal lumber, cement fiberboard, batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber, or other approved materials adequately supported. The integrity of draft stops shall be maintained.
Draftstopping shall be provided in floor/ceiling spaces in Group R buildings. Draftstopping shall be located above and in line with the dwelling unit separations.
Where laminated wood I-joist assemblies are used, the space between the ceiling and the floor or roof above shall be divided into approximately equal areas not greater than 500 square feet (46.5 m2).
Draftstopping shall not be required where the structural members within the concealed ceiling space are individually protected on all sides for their full length with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
Draftstopping shall not be required where the structural members within the concealed ceiling space are individually protected on all sides for their full length with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
In combustible and noncombustible construction, draftstopping shall be installed to subdivide attic spaces and concealed roof spaces in the locations prescribed in Sections 718.4.2 and 718.4.3. Ventilation of concealed roof spaces shall be maintained in accordance with Section 1203.2.
Openings in draftstop partitions provided in accordance with Section 1209.2 shall be protected by self-closing doors with automatic latches constructed as required for the partitions.
Draftstopping shall be provided in attics, mansards, overhangs or other concealed roof spaces of Group R-2 buildings with three or more dwelling units and in all Group R-1 buildings. Draftstopping shall be installed above, and in line with, dwelling unit separation walls that do not extend to the underside of the roof sheathing above.
Exceptions:
Draftstopping shall not be required where the structural members within the concealed attic space are individually protected on all sides for their full length with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
Draftstopping is not required in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2, provided that automatic sprinklers are installed in the combustible concealed space where the draftstopping is being omitted.
Where laminated wood I-joist assemblies are used, the space between the ceiling and the floor or roof above shall be divided into approximately equal areas not greater than 500 square feet (46.5 m2).
Draftstopping shall not be required where the structural members within the concealed attic space are individually protected on all sides for their full length with materials having the required fire-resistance rating.
Where laminated wood I-joist assemblies are used, the space between the ceiling and the floor or roof above shall be divided into approximately equal areas not greater than 500 square feet (46.5 m2).
The minimum thickness of gypsum plaster or portland cement plaster used in a fire-resistance-rated system shall be determined by the prescribed fire tests. The plaster thickness shall be measured from the face of the lath where applied to gypsum lath or metal lath.
For fire-resistance purposes, 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) of unsanded gypsum plaster shall be deemed equivalent to 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) of one-to-three gypsum sand plaster or 1 inch (25.4 mm) of portland cement sand plaster.
In buildings of Type I and II construction, plaster shall be applied directly on concrete or masonry or on approved noncombustible plastering base and furring.
Plaster protection more than 1 inch (25.4 mm) in thickness shall be reinforced with an additional layer of approved lath embedded not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) from the outer surface and fixed securely in place.
Exception:Solid plaster partitions or where otherwise determined by fire tests.
In reinforced concreteconstruction, gypsum plaster or portland cement plaster is permitted to be substituted for 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) of the required poured concrete protection, except that a minimum thickness of 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) of poured concrete shall be provided in reinforced concrete floors and 1 inch (25.4 mm) in reinforced concrete columns in addition to the plaster finish. The concretebase shall be prepared in accordance with Section 2510.7.
Insulating materials, including facings such as vapor retarders and vapor- permeable membranes, similar coverings, and all layers of single and multilayer reflective foil insulations, shall comply with the requirements of this section. Where a flame spread index or a smoke-development index is specified in this section, such index shall be determined in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723. Any material that is subject to an increase in flame spread index or smoke-development index beyond the limits herein established through the effects of age, moisture, or other atmospheric conditions shall not be permitted.
Insulating materials used in noncombustible construction must either:
Satisfactorily pass a test for determining noncombustibility of elementary materials, based on the test procedures of ASTM E 136; or
Have a flame spread index not greater than 25, a smoke-development index not greater than 50, and be without evidence of continued progressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84.
Insulating materials used in combustible construction shall have a flame spread index not greater than 25, a smoke-development index not greater than 450, and be without evidence of continuous progressive combustion when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84.
Insulating materials, where concealed as installed in buildings of any type construction, shall comply with Sections 720.1.1, 720.1 and 720.1.2. Concealed insulation shall be separated from the building interior by a thermal barrier consisting of at least 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) thick gypsum wallboard or approved equivalent.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation complying with the requirements of Section 720.6 shall only be required to meet a smoke-development index of not more than 450, when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2, provided such insulation has a smoke-development index that complies with the requirements of Section 720.2 or 720.3, as applicable, and Section 720.6 of this code.
Where such materials are installed in concealed spaces in buildings of Type III, IV or Vconstruction, the flame spread and smoke-development limits do not apply to facings, coverings, and layers of reflective foil insulation that are installed behind and in substantial contact with the unexposed surface of the ceiling, wall or floor finish.
Exception:
All layers of single and multilayer reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with Section 2614.
Insulation materials, where exposed as installed in buildings of any type of construction, shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-development index of not more than 50.
Exception: Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation complying
with the requirements of Section 720.6 shall not be required to meet a flame
spread index requirement but shall be required to meet a smoke-development index of not more
than 50 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
Exposed insulation materials installed on attic floors shall have a critical radiant flux of not less than 0.12 watt per square centimeter when tested in accordance with ASTM E 970.
Loose-fill insulation materials that cannot be mounted in the ASTM E 84 apparatus without a screen or artificial supports shall comply with the flame spread and smoke-developed limits of Sections 720.2 and 720.3 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2.
Exception:
Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation shall not be required to meet a
flame spread index requirement when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC S102.2, provided such
insulation has a smoke-development index that complies with the requirements of Section
720.2 or 720.3, as applicable, and Section 720.6.
The use of combustible roof insulation not complying with Sections
720.2 and 720.3 shall be permitted in any type of construction provided it is applied
on top of roof decking or slab and that such insulation is covered with approved roof coverings
directly applied thereto.
Cellulosic fiber loose-fill insulation and self-supported spray-applied cellulosic insulation shall comply with CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1209 and 1404. Each package of such insulating material shall be clearly labeled in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1209 and 1404.
