PROPOSED CODE CHANGES FOR REVIEW BY THE FIRE CODE ACTION COMMITTEE

Transcription

1 PROPOSED CODE CHANGES FOR REVIEW BY THE FIRE CODE ACTION COMMITTEE Developed by the Western Regional Work Group October 12, 2011 CONTENTS ITEM 2B... 2 ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM ITEM Page 1 of 48

2 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 2B CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IBC 12/13 Code Sections/Tables/Figures Proposed for Revision: IBC Table IFC Table Revise IFC Table as follows: TABLE EXPLOSION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS EXPLOSION CONTROL METHODS MATERIAL CLASS Barricade construction Explosion (deflagration) venting or explosion (deflagration) prevention systems HAZARD CATEGORY Combustible dusts a Not Cryogenic fluids Flammable Not Explosives Flammable gas Flammable liquids Division 1.1 Division 1.2 Division 1.3 Division 1.4 Division 1.5 Division 1.6 Gaseous Liquefied IA b IB c Unclassified detonable I Not Not Not Not Not Not Not Not Not Not Organic peroxides Not Permitted Not Permitted Oxidizer liquids and solids 4 Not Permitted Pyrophoric Gases Not 4 Not Permitted Unstable (reactive) 3 Detonable Not Permitted 3 Nondetonable Not Water-reactive liquids and solids 3 Not 2 e Not SPECIAL USES Acetylene generator Not rooms Grain processing Not Liquefied petroleum gas Not distribution facilities Where explosion hazards exist d Detonation Deflagration Not Not Permitted a. Combustible dusts that are generated during manufacturing or processing. See definition of Combustible Dust in Chapter 22. b. Storage or use. c. In open use or dispensing. d. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials when an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials or as a result of the dispensing or use process. e. A method of explosion control shall be provided when Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures. Page 2 of 48

3 f. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 Fabrication Areas complying with Chapter 27 and the International Building Code. Also, revise IBC Table as follows: [F] TABLE EXPLOSION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS a,h MATERIAL CLASS Barricade construction EXPLOSION CONTROL METHODS Explosion (deflagration) venting or explosion (deflagration) prevention systems b HAZARD CATEGORY Combustible dusts c Not Cryogenic flammables Not Explosives Division 1.1 Division 1.2 Division 1.3 Division 1.4 Division 1.5 Division 1.6 Not Not Not Not Not Not Flammable gas Gaseous Not Liquefied Not Flammable liquid IA d Not IB e Not Organic peroxides U Not Permitted I Not Permitted Oxidizer liquids and solids 4 Not Permitted Pyrophoric gas Not Unstable (reactive) 4 3 Detonable 3 Nondetonable Not Not Permitted Not Permitted Water-reactive liquids and solids 3 2 g Not Not SPECIAL USES Acetylene generator room Not Grain processing Not Liquefied petroleum gasdistribution facilities Not Where explosion hazards Detonation Not Permitted exist f Deflagration Not a. See Section b. See the International Fire Code. c. As generated during manufacturing or processing. d. Storage or use. e. In open use or dispensing. f. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials when an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials or as a result of the dispensing or use process. g. A method of explosion control shall be provided when Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures. h. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 Fabrication Areas complying with IBC and the International Fire Code. REASON: This proposal is intended to reduce confusion in the application of explosion venting requirements to Group H-5 Occupancies. Currently, IBC and IFC require explosion Page 3 of 48

4 venting where MAQs are exceeded per IFC Table and IBC Table However, fabrication areas of H-5 Occupancies are specifically allowed to exceed these quantities in accordance with IBC and IFC due to the strict controls prescribed in for those fabrication areas. This proposal would clarify that explosion venting is not required in the fabrication areas of H-5 Occupancies. HPM storage rooms and gas rooms are also allowed to exceed the limits of Tables and IBC Explosion venting would still potentially be required in the HPM storage rooms and gas rooms. This is currently clarified in IBC This proposal is consistent with current construction and interpretation of explosion venting requirements, as Group H-5 fabrication areas are generally constructed without explosion venting. This proposal simply provides clarification on how the Group H5 requirements correlate with MAQs and explosion venting requirements found elsewhere in code. Page 4 of 48

5 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 9 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC (new) IBC (new), (new) Proponent: Western RWG Add Section to the IFC as follows: (IBC [F] 914.3) Firefighter breathing air replenishment systems. A firefighter breathing air replenishment system shall be installed in the following buildings and structures: Exception: When approved by the Fire Chief, an alternative system or method to provide breathing air replenishment to firefighters under emergency conditions is permitted. Documentation describing the approved alternative system or method shall be maintained by the fire code official and provided to the owner. 1. High-rise buildings. 2. Underground buildings regulated by Section 405 of the International Building Code. 3. Basements consisting of three or more stories below grade. 4. Buildings with an aggregate floor area greater than 200,000 ft 2 and where any portion of the building s interior area is more than 500 feet (152 m) of travel, vertically and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access. 5. Underground transportation or pedestrian tunnels where any portion of the tunnel is more than 500 feet (152 m) of travel, vertically and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access. Add Section to the IBC as follows: [F] Firefighter breathing air replenishment system. A firefighter breathing air replenishment system shall be shall be provided in accordance with Section (renumber subsequent sections ) Add Section to the IBC as follows: [F] Firefighter breathing air replenishment system. A firefighter breathing air replenishment system shall be shall be provided in accordance with Section (renumber subsequent sections ) REASON: This proposal will provide a requirement to provide a method to refill firefighter breathing air bottles during an emergency. This requirement is only applicable in specific large Page 5 of 48

6 buildings or buildings which present an extreme difficulty in getting a fresh air supply to the firefighters fighting the fire. This proposal does not specify the method in which the breathing air is supplied. The decision as to how this is accomplished can vary from fire department to fire department. It is typically dependent on the fire department vehicles and capabilities of the fire department. Page 6 of 48

7 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 23 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC , (new), (new) Revise IFC Section as follows: Solar photovoltaic power systems. Solar photovoltaic power systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections through , the International Building Code and NFPA 70. Exception: Detached, nonhabitable Group U structures including, but not limited to, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures shall not be subject to the requirements of Sections through Add Section to the IFC as follows: Group U structures. Solar photovoltaic power systems on detached, nonhabitable Group U structures including, but not limited to, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures shall comply with this section Main service disconnect. A main service disconnect shall be provided on each structure. A marking shall be provided adjacent to the main service disconnect in a location clearly visible from the location where the disconnect is operated that complies with and REASON: As written the code exempts photovoltaic systems located on detached canopies and similar structures from complying with the IBC, NFPA 70 and all requirements in section , while section 105 requires a permit to be issued for these systems. This proposal clarifies that the installation must comply with the IBC for structural and other provisions, and NFPA 70 for electrical provisions. It also requires that access be provided to the structure that is consistent with It also requires each structure to be provide with a main service disconnect that is marked in accordance with section Page 7 of 48

8 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 41 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IBC/IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IBC , (new), IFC Revise IBC Section as follows: General. The provisions of Sections through shall apply to structures erected for a period of less than 180 days. Structures erected for a longer period of time shall comply with the applicable sections of this code. Tents and other membrane structures erected for a period of less than 180 days shall comply with the International Fire CodeSection Those erected for a longer period of time shall comply with applicable sections of this code. Add IBC Section as follows: Structural Design. Temporary structures shall comply with Chapter 16. Revise IFC Section as follows: Anchorage required. Tents or membrane structures and their appurtenances shall be adequately roped, braced and anchored to withstand the elements of weather and prevent against collapsing. Documentation of structural stability shall be furnished to the fire code official on request. Tents or membrane structures shall comply with the IBC Chapter 16 where any of the following conditions occur: 1. The tent or membrane structure has an occupant load exceeding The tent or membrane structure is a Group A, E, I or R occupancy. 3. The tent or membrane structure exceeds one story in height. REASON: Temporary structures continue to grow in size and occurrence. These structures can be seen at concerts, outdoor functions, fairs, etc. Even though the provision of temporary limits the usability of these structures to less than 180 days, their structural design still needs to be reviewed. Many of these temporary structures are multiple floors, and over 30 feet in height. As the height increases, the impact of collapse increases and typically these structures are surrounded by hundreds of people. The IBC currently regulates Temporary Structures in Section Section is added to include a specific reference to the structural requirements in Chapter 16. Page 8 of 48

9 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 68 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC , , Proponent: Western RWG Revise IFC Section as follows: (IBC [F] ) Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m 2 ). The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet ( mm) in any direction. Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA (IBC [F] ) Zoning indicator panel. A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved location. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible alarm-silencing switch (IBC [F] ) High-rise buildings. In high-rise buildings, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for each of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided: 1. Smoke detectors. 2. Sprinkler water-flow devices. 3. Manual fire alarm boxes. 4. Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems (IBC [F] ) Initiating device identification. The fire alarm system shall include a means to identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level (if applicable) and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory status, as appropriate (IBC [F] ) Annunciation. The initiating device status shall be displayed at an approved on-site location. REASON: This proposal is intended to help the code official identify the status of individual initiating devices, which is readily achievable using existing fire alarm control unit technology. This will help identify problematic initiating devices and thus reduce nuisance alarms. It also will allow the fire department to more effectively respond to actual fires in premises. It also eliminates the requirements for providing zone indication of system status. initiating device status shall be displayed at an approved location at the premise, such as the fire alarm control unit, fire command center and/or zone annunciator panel. Cost Impact: The code change proposal will not increase the cost of construction. Page 9 of 48

10 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 69A CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC (new) Proponent: Western RWG Add new Section to the IFC as follows: (IBC [F] ) Automatic Fire Sprinkler Waterflow Alarm. Where fire sprinkler waterflow alarm initiating devices are installed, the activation of the device shall occur no sooner than 30 seconds and no longer than 90 seconds after sprinkler water flow occurs that is equal to or greater than the flow from a single fire sprinkler with the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Revise IFC Section as follows: (IBC [F] 907.4) Initiating devices. Where manual or automatic alarm initiation is required as part of a fire alarm system, the initiating devices shall be installed in accordance with Sections through Reason: This proposal is intended to help reduce nuisance alarms. The intent is to establish a minimum time setting on waterflow devices, whereby currently NFPA 72 only has a maximum. As water distribution systems have become more dynamic over time, water systems tend to fluctuate considerably and result in more unintentional activation of water flow devices. Page 10 of 48

11 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 69B CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC (new), Proponent: Western RWG Add new Section to the IFC as follows: (IBC [F] ) Alarm Signal Verification. Where required by the Fire Chief, supervising station personnel shall attempt to verify an alarm signal prior to reporting them to the emergency response communications center in accordance with the following: (1) When the supervising station receives an alarm signal, the supervising station attempt to verify that the alarm signal necessitates an emergency response. (2) The supervising station verification process shall not exceed 90 seconds from the time the alarm signal is received until the time that retransmission of a verified alarm signal to the emergency response communications center is initiated. (3) Verified alarm signals shall immediately be retransmitted to the emergency response communications center and include information that the signal was verified by the protected premises as an emergency. (4) When alarm signals cannot be verified, the supervising station shall immediately retransmit the alarm to the emergency response communications center. (5) Alarm signals not verified as needing emergency response shall not be retransmitted to the emergency response communications center. (6) Alarm signals not transmitted to the emergency response communications center shall be reported to the fire department in a manner and a frequency specified by the fire department. Revise IFC Section as follows: (IBC [F] 907.6) Installation. A fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with Sections through and NFPA 72. REASON: The intent is to allow fire departments to require verification on both commercial and residential alarm signals in order to assist in effective dispatching of resources and/or reducing nuisance alarms. Currently NFPA 72 allows verification on residential systems (but gives choice of using it to the monitoring company). This would give discretion to the AHJ, and expand use to include commercial alarms which accounts for the majority of false alarms in the U.S. Many departments have dramatically different response protocols for automatic alarm signals than for working fires, with many responding with single units or non-emergency priority compared to a full first alarm assignment for working fires or smoke showing. This would allow a brief period of time in which the supervising station would attempt to gather more information which could be critical in dispatching the correct resources and Page 11 of 48

12 significantly bolster response size and speed. Additionally, by checking for unintentional activations (as is commonly done in residential applications) nuisance alarms can be reduced. Page 12 of 48

13 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 70 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC/IRC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC (new), (new), IRC R (new), R (new) 1. Add Sections and to the IFC and renumber the remaining sections as follows: Installation near cooking appliances. Smoke alarms shall not be installed within a 20 foot (6.1 m) horizontal distance from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by other sections of the code. Exception: 1. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall be allowed to be installed 10 feet (3 m) or more from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance. 2. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall be allowed to be installed 6 feet (1.8 m) or more from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance Installation near bathrooms. Smoke alarms shall not be installed within a 3 foot (0.91 m) horizontal distance from the door of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by other sections of the code Interconnection. (text remains unchanged ) 2. Add Section R and R to the IRC and renumber the remaining sections as follows: R Installation near cooking appliances. Smoke alarms shall not be installed within a 20 foot (6.1 m) horizontal distance from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by other sections of the code. Exception: 1. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall be allowed to be installed 10 feet (3 m) or more from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance. 2. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall be allowed to be installed 6 feet (1.8 m) or more from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance. R Installation near bathrooms. Smoke alarms shall not be installed within a 3 foot (0.91 m) horizontal distance from the door of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm required by other sections of the code. R R Alterations, repairs and additions. (text remains unchanged ) REASON: Page 13 of 48

14 This proposal is intended to reduce nuisance alarms attributed to locating smoke alarms in close proximity to cooking appliances and bathrooms in which steam is produced. The proposed provisions are based on the findings documented n the Task Group Report - Minimum Performance Requirements for Smoke Alarm Detection Technology - February 22, 2008, and are consistent with similar requirements included in the 2010 edition of NFPA 72. Section already requires smoke alarms to be installed in accordance with NFPA 72, which theoretically describes where alarms should and should not be installed. As a convenience to the code, requirements on where smoke alarms should not be installed in proximity to cooking appliance and steam producing bathrooms will be included in this section. Page 14 of 48

15 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 71 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC , (new) Revise IFC section as follows: Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiplestation smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed and maintained in accordance with Sections through , Section and NFPA 72. Add a new IFC section and renumber the remaining sections: Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer s instructions. Smoke alarms that become inoperable or fail to respond to tests shall be replaced. Smoke alarms installed in one- and two-family dwellings shall be replaced after 10 years from the date of manufacture marked on the unit, or after 10 years of service if the date of manufacture is not visible Smoke detector sensitivity. (Text remains unchanged ) REASON: This proposal clarifies the requirements in Section for testing and maintaining smoke alarms, and specifies when the devices need to be replaced. The proposed requirements are consistent with NFPA 72 provisions. In particular NFPA 72 requires smoke alarms installed in one- and two-family dwellings to not remain in service longer than 10 years from the date of manufacture, and UL 217 requires the date of manufacture to be marked on the smoke alarms. It is recognized that it may not always be practical for the code official to enforce the requirements for testing, maintenance and replacement of smoke alarms in residential dwelling units. However realtors and landlords often have checklists that verify that these dwellings comply with codes and other requirements, and they may be in a position to verify compliance with the proposed provisions when the units are sold or leased. Page 15 of 48

16 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 73 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IRC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IRC R315.1 IFC 908.7, Proponent: Western RWG Revise IRC Section R315 as follows: SECTION R315 - CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS R315.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. For new construction, carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms in dwelling units within which fuel-fired appliances are installed and in dwelling units that have attached garages. Carbon monoxide alarms shall comply with Section R315.2 through R Carbon monoxide detection systems shall comply with Section R R Alarm requirements. Single-station carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer s installation instructions. R Power source. Carbon monoxide alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source, and when primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection. Exceptions: 1. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be permitted to be battery operated when installed in buildings without commercial power. 2. Where approved by the code official, units that connect to ac receptacles via power supply cords shall be permitted provided that an approved restraining means is provided to secure the cord to the receptacle. 3. Hard wiring of carbon monoxide alarms in existing areas shall not be required where the alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide access for hard wiring without the removal of interior finishes. R Combination alarms. Combination carbon monoxide/smoke alarms shall be permitted to be used to comply with Section R314 and R315 requirements provided the units are listed in accordance with both UL 217 and UL 2034 requirements, and installed per the manufacturer s instructions and in accordance with Section R314 and R315 requirements. R315.3 R315.2 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon monoxide detection systems that include carbon monoxide detectors and audible notification appliances, Page 16 of 48

17 installed and maintained in accordance with this section for carbon monoxide alarms and NFPA 720, shall be permitted. The carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed as complying with UL Where a household carbon monoxide detection system is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy, owned by the homeowner and shall be monitored by an approved supervising station. Exception: Where carbon monoxide alarms are installed meeting the requirements of Section R315.1, compliance with Section is not required. R315.4 R315.3 Where required in existing dwellings. Where work requiring a permit occurs in existing dwellings that have attached garages or in existing dwellings within which fuel fired appliances exist, carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in accordance with Section R Revise IFC Section as follows: Carbon monoxide alarms. Group I or R occupancies located in a building containing a fuel-burning appliance or in a building which has an attached garage shall be equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in the following locations: 1. Outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping units or bedrooms. 2. In sleeping units and bedrooms that contain a fuel-burning appliance. The carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and be installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 720 and the manufacturer s instructions. An open parking garage, as defined in Chapter 2 of the International Building Code, or an enclosed parking garage ventilated in accordance with Section 404 of the International Mechanical Code shall not be considered an attached garage. Exception: Sleeping units or dwelling units which do not themselves contain a fuel-burning appliance or have an attached garage, but which are located in a building with a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, need not be equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms provided that: 1. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is located more than one story above or below any story which contains a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage; The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is not connected by duct work or ventilation shafts to any room containing a fuel-burning appliance or to an attached garage; and 2. A carbon monoxide alarm is provided over the fuel-burning appliance that will activate an audible alarm in a constantly attended receiving station or audible to the building occupants. 3. The building is equipped with a common area carbon monoxide alarm system. A carbon monoxide alarm is provided in the common area between the attached garage and the sleeping units/dwelling units that will activate an audible alarm in a constantly attended receiving station or audible to the building occupants. Page 17 of 48

18 Carbon monoxide alarm shall comply with Section Combination carbon monoxide alarms shall comply with Section Carbon monoxide detection systems shall comply with Section Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 720, and shall be listed in accordance with UL Power source. Carbon monoxide alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source, and when primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection. Exceptions: 1. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be permitted to be battery operated when installed in buildings without commercial power. 2. When approved by the code official, units that connect to ac receptacles via power supply cords shall be allowed provided that an approved restraining means is provided to secure the cord to the receptacle Combination alarms. Combination carbon monoxide/smoke alarms shall be permitted to be used provided the units are listed in accordance with both UL 217 and UL 2034 requirements, and installed in accordance with Sections and , as applicable Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon monoxide detection systems, which include carbon monoxide detectors and audible notification appliances, installed and maintained in accordance with this section Section for carbon monoxide alarms and NFPA 720 shall be permitted. The carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed as complying with UL IFC Requirements for Existing Buildings Revise IFC Section as follow: Carbon monoxide alarms. Existing Group I or R occupancies located in a building containing a fuel-burning appliance or a building which has an attached garage shall be equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms. The carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034, and be installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 720 and the manufacturer s instructions. An open parking garage, as defined in the International Building Code, or an enclosed parking garage ventilated in accordance with Section 404 of the International Mechanical Code shall not be deemed to be an attached garage. Exception: Sleeping units or dwelling units which do not themselves contain a fuel-burning appliance or have an attached garage, but which are located in a building with a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, need not be equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms provided that: 1. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is located more than one story above or below any story that contains a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage; Page 18 of 48

19 21. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is not connected by duct work or ventilation shafts to any room containing a fuel-burning appliance or to an attached garage; and 2. A carbon monoxide alarm is provided in common areas on each floor of the building that contains sleeping units. 3. The building is provided with a common area carbon monoxide alarm system. REASON: This proposal clarifies requirements for carbon monoxide detection devices in both the IRC and the IFC, as follows. 1. IRC Section R315 currently intermixes requirements for CO alarms and CO detection systems in a way that might be confusing. The proposal consolidates CO alarm requirements in Section R315.2 and the CO detection system requirements in R Section R315.1still specifies where CO detection devices are needed, with no changes. 2. New IRC Section R includes new requirements for CO alarm power supplies that are consistent with R314 smoke alarm power supply requirements. It also allows cord and plug connected units to be provided, as allowed in NFPA 720, when approved by the code official. 3. New IRC Section R addresses combination CO/smoke alarms, which are Listed and readily available. 4. Similar revisions and reformatting changes have been proposed for the IFC. 5. IFC included exceptions on where CO detection devices were not required, but did not describe where they were required. Accordingly, where required requirements are clarified. 6. The requirements for providing carbon monoxide alarms in Group I occupancies is being eliminated due to the presence of trained staff at these facilities. Page 19 of 48

20 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 80 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections/Tables/Figures Proposed for Revision: IFC 319 (new) Add new Section 319 to the IFC as follows: SECTION 319 EXHIBITIONS AND TRADE SHOWS General. Indoor exhibitions and trade shows are addressed in this section. These include, but are not limited to exhibition halls, convention general sessions, association meetings, product convention showrooms; trade shows with or without booths, and political conventions that constitute temporary assembly uses. An operational permit shall be obtained in accordance with Section Exhibits and booths. Exhibits and booths shall comply with through Automatic Sprinklers Single-level exhibits and booths exceeding 1,000 ft 2 (93 m 2 ) which are covered with a ceiling shall be protected by automatic fire sprinklers installed within the booth Each level of multi-level exhibits and booths shall be protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system installed within the booth where the accessible floor area of the upper walking level(s) is greater than 300 ft 2 (27.9 m 2 ) The water supply and piping for the fire sprinkler protection for exhibits and booths shall be an approved temporary means provided by an existing standpipe system or an existing fire sprinkler system Hydraulic calculations shall be provided when the automatic fire sprinkler protection required in Sections and is supplied by the standpipe system or in a hydraulically most remote location as defined by NFPA Horizontal Separation between Booths. A single exhibit or booth or group of exhibits or booths that do not require fire sprinklers shall be separated by a distance of not less than 8 ft. (2.4 m) where the aggregate ceiling area exceeds 1000 ft 2 (93 m 2 ) Egress Travel Distance. The egress travel distance within the exhibit booth or exhibit enclosure to an exit access aisle shall not exceed 50 ft. (15 m). Page 20 of 48

21 Means of Egress from Booths. The upper deck of multi-level exhibit booths exceeding 300 ft 2 (28 m 2 ) shall have not less than two remote means of egress Construction Materials. Exhibit booths shall be constructed using any of the following: (1) Noncombustible materials, (2) Wood exceeding 0.25 inch (6.3 mm) nominal thickness, (3) Wood that is pressure-treated, fire-retardant wood meeting the requirements of NFPA 703, (4) Flame-retardant materials complying with NFPA 701, (5) Textile wall coverings, such as carpeting and similar products used in wall or ceiling finishes complying with Section , (6) Plastics with a Class A flame spread index, (7) Foamed plastics and materials containing foamed plastics complying with Section , (8) Cardboard, honeycombed paper, and other combustible materials having a heat release rate for any single fuel package that does not exceed 150 kw where tested in accordance with UL 1975, (9) Alternate materials as approved by the fire code official Decorative Curtains, and Textiles Curtains, drapes, and textiles used in temporary exhibitions and trade shows shall comply with Section 318, and shall not be required to comply with Section 807. Curtains, drapes and textiles shall comply with NFPA 701. Compliance shall be indicated by a tag affixed to each curtain, drape, or textile. The tag shall be affixed by the owner of the material after gaining assurance that the material is inherently flame retardant, provided with current flame retardant treatment, or otherwise is compliant with NFPA 701. The tag shall indicate the name of the owner of the material and a statement indicating compliance with the Fire Code. The fire code official is authorized to conduct field test in accordance with NFPA 705 on any curtain, drape or textile installed Curtains, drapes and textiles shall comply with NFPA 701. Exception: Free-standing partitions situated in a manner to permit the minimum required egress width to one or both sides of the partition shall be permitted. The paths of egress provided around the partition shall be marked by exit signs complying with Chapter Curtains, drapes or textiles shall not be installed to cover exit signs, means of egress components, sprinklers, strobes, horn-strobes, standpipe outlets, hose cabinets, fire extinguishers, or any other fire protection equipment Ceiling suspended curtains drapes and textiles in exhibition spaces are to have a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) of clear space between the top of the material and the sprinkler deflector. Page 21 of 48

22 Exception: Clearance between the ceiling and the top of the curtain, drape or textile is not required when the curtain, drape, or textile is within 6 inches (152 mm) of a full-height wall The amount of temporary ceiling hung curtains, drapes or textiles in exhibition spaces equipped throughout with automatic sprinklers shall not be limited and shall comply with through Demonstration cooking and food warming in exhibition spaces shall comply with the following: 1. All cooking appliances shall be listed or approved by a nationally recognized testing agency. 2. All cooking equipment is to be operated according to the manufacturers recommendations and operating instructions. Equipment recommended for outdoor use shall not be used indoors. 3. All cooking equipment using combustible oils at a depth of 0.25 inch (6.3 mm) or more shall be listed in accordance with UL 710B, or shall meet all of the following criteria: 3.1. Metal lids sized to cover the horizontal cooking surface are to be provided The cooking surface is limited to 288 square inches (11.4 L) Cooking equipment exceeding 288 square inches (11.4 L) aggregate surface area shall be provided with an automatic extinguishing system installed according to NFPA 17A Cooking equipment exceeding 288 square inches (11.4 L) shall be provided with a mechanical exhaust system in accordance with the mechanical code The volume of cooking oil per appliance is not to exceed 3 gallon (11.4 L) Deep fat fryers shall be electrically powered and have a shut-off switch. 4. The volume of cooking oil per booth shall not exceed 8 gallon (30.3 L). 5. The fryer shall be separated from all other equipment by a distance not less than 24 inches (610 mm). 6. Cooking displays shall be separated from combustible materials by a minimum distance of 10 feet (3048 mm). 7. Class-K portable fire extinguishers shall be provided within 30 feet (9144 mm) of each cooking operation in accordance with Solid fuel cooking equipment shall be protected in accordance with the mechanical code. 9. LP-gas used for displays and demonstrations shall be in accordance with section Plans. Plans for the exhibition or trade show, along with application for an operational permit, shall be submitted to the fire code official for review and approval. The exhibit shall not commence setup prior to approval of the operational permit. The plans shall show all pertinent details of the exhibition which shall include the following as applicable: 1. Overall floor plan, drawn to scale or dimensioned. 2. Egress analysis showing conformance with Chapter Seating arrangements and table and chair configurations. 4. Locations of all exhibits and booths. 5. Locations of all aisles and exits. Page 22 of 48

23 6. Locations of temporary walls, partitions, or curtains. 7. Lobby and registration area usage. 8. Location of temporary platforms, including any intended use beneath the platform. 9. Location of fire protection equipment, including but not limited to portable fire extinguishers, fire alarm devices, hose cabinets. Also, add new text to Chapter 80 as follows: NFPA NFPA 705, Recommended Practice for a Field Flame Test of Textiles and Films REASON: In conjunction with the convention industry, the Southern Nevada Fire Code Committee developed a code section to address the issues prominent with the convention industry. The section addresses how to construct and protect exhibit booths, how to regulate drapes, and how to regulate demonstration cooking. These are issues that have arisen over the years that required some attention in the code. The code requirements balance the temporary nature of the events with the need to provide fire protection for the occupants. Page 23 of 48

24 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 83 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections/Tables/Figures Proposed for Revision: IFC Appendix D103.5 Revise IFC Section D103.5 as follows: D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria: 1. The minimum gate width shall be 20 feet (6096 mm)no less than the width of the access road where the gate is installed. 2. Gates shall be of the swinging or sliding type. 3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person. 4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective. 5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the fire code official. 6. Manual opening gates shall not be locked with a padlock or chain and padlock unless they are capable of being opened by means of forcible entry tools or when a key box containing the key(s) to the lock is installed at the gate location. 76. Methods of Llocking device specifications shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official. 87. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F REASON: This proposal simplifies the list of criteria for security gates. The requirements in Item 6 can easily be covered in the revision to Item 7. Item 6 currently lists specific methods of locking access gates. Item 6 then becomes unnecessary so it is proposed to be deleted. The reality is that there are many other methods available which can be utilized to lock a gate. Whatever the method of locking, the need is to have the method approved. This will now be covered in the new Item 6. Page 24 of 48

25 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 85 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IEBC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IEBC , (new) Revise IBC Section as follows: IBC Conformance with this code. No change shall be made in the use or occupancy of any building that would place the building in a different division of the same group of occupancies or in a different group of occupancies, unless such building is made to comply with the requirements of this code for such division or group of occupancies. Subject to the approval of the building official, the use or occupancy of existing buildings shall be permitted to be changed and the building is allowed to be occupied for purposes in other groups without conforming to all the requirements of this code for those groups, provided the new or proposed use is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use. Add Section to the IBC as follows: IBC Conformance with the International Residential Code. For buildings constructed in compliance with the International Residential Code, no change shall be made in the use or occupancy of a building which would result in an occupancy regulated by this code unless such building is made to comply with the requirements of this code for the applicable occupancy classification. Subject to the approval of the building official, the use or occupancy of existing buildings shall be permitted to be changed and the building is allowed to be occupied for purposes in other groups without conforming to all the requirements of this code for those groups, provided the new or proposed use is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use. (renumber subsequent sections ) REASON: Currently the code contains no provision to transition from IRC to IBC from having no occupancy designation to having an occupancy definition. Page 25 of 48

26 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 87 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections/Tables/Figures Proposed for Revision: IFC (new) Add Section to the IFC as follows: Biofuels. Production, processing and storing of biofuels classified as flammable or combustible liquids shall comply with all applicable requirements in this Chapter. Fuel dispensing operations shall be in accordance with Chapter 23. Biofuels classified as flammable or combustible liquids shall not be produced, distilled or processed at Group R occupancies and one- and two-family dwellings. REASON: A growing number of citizens are obtaining used cooking grease and other combustible liquids, to then distill into biodiesel and other liquid biofuels at residential settings and dwellings. This proposal provides clear cut requirements for code officials to use to prevent this distilling from being conducted in residential occupancies. Page 26 of 48

27 WESTERN REGIONAL WORK GROUP ITEM 95 CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL Code: IFC 12/13 Code Sections Proposed for Revision: IFC 202 (new), , , , , , , IBC IMC , 510.1, Revise Hazardous Production Material definition as follows: [F] HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAL (HPM). A solid, liquid or gas associated with semiconductor manufacturing that has a degree-of-hazard rating in health, flammability or instability of Class 3 or 4 as ranked by NFPA 704 and high hazard material which is used directly in research, laboratory or production processes which have as their end product materials that are not hazardous. Add new definition of High Hazard Material as follows: [F] HIGH HAZARD MATERIAL. A solid, liquid or gas that has a hazard classification of one or more of the following: Corrosive; Explosive; Flammable; Highly Toxic; Organic Peroxide UD, I, or II; Oxidizer Class 3 or 4; Pyrophoric, Toxic; Unstable Reactive Class 3 or 4; or Water Reactive Class 3. Revise IBC Section as follows: [F] Dispensing, use and handling. Where hazardous high hazard materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 are transported through corridors, interior exit stairways or ramps, or exit passageways there shall be an emergency telephone system, a local manual alarm station or an approved alarminitiating device at not more than 150-foot ( mm) intervals and at each exit and exit access doorway throughout the transport route. The signal shall be relayed to an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or constantly attended on-site location and shall initiate a local audible alarm. Revise IFC Section #6 as follows: 6. Where gases or liquids having a hazard ranking of: high hazard materials Health Class 3 or 4 Flammability Class 4 Instability Class 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 are carried in pressurized piping above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103 kpa), an approved means of leak detection and emergency shutoff or excess flow control shall be provided. Where the piping originates from within a hazardous material storage room or area, the excess flow control shall be located within the storage room or area. Where the piping originates from a bulk source, the excess flow control shall be located as close to the bulk source as practical. Exceptions: 1. Piping for inlet connections designed to prevent backflow. 2. Piping for pressure relief devices. Page 27 of 48

28 Revise IFC Section as follows: Additional regulations for supply piping for health-hazard materials. Supply piping and tubing for gases and or liquids having a health-hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704corrosive, toxic and highly toxic materials shall be in accordance with ASME B31.3 and the following: 1. Piping and tubing utilized for the transmission of highly toxic, toxic or highly volatile corrosive liquids and gases shall have welded, threaded or flanged connections throughout except for connections located within a ventilated enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or containment is provided for connections if the material is a liquid. 2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corridors, within any portion of a means of egress required to be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction or in concealed spaces in areas not classified as Group H occupancies. Exception: Piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed spaces above other occupancies when installed in accordance with Section of the International Building Code for Group H-5 occupancies. Revise IFC Section as follows: Carts and trucks required. Liquids in containers exceeding 5 gallons (19 L) in a corridor or enclosure for a stairway or ramp shall be transported on a cart or truck. Containers of hazardous high hazard materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 and transported within corridors or interior exit stairways and ramps, shall be on a cart or truck. Where carts and trucks are required for transporting hazardous materials, they shall be in accordance with Section Revise IFC Section as follows: Liquid transfer. Liquids high hazard materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 shall be transferred by one of the following methods: 1. From safety cans complying with UL Through an approved closed piping system. 3. From containers or tanks by an approved pump taking suction through an opening in the top of the container or tank. 4. From containers or tanks by gravity through an approved self-closing or automatic-closing valve when the container or tank and dispensing operations are provided with spill control and secondary containment in accordance with Section Highly toxic liquids shall not be dispensed by gravity from tanks. 5. Approved engineered liquid transfer systems. Exceptions: 1. Highly toxic, Class IA flammable, Unstable (reactive) Class 4 and Water Reactive Class 3 Liquids liquids having a hazard ranking of 4 when dispensed from approved containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons (5 L). 2. Toxic, Class IB or IC flammable, Unstable (reactive) Class 3 and Water Reactive Class 2 Liquids liquids having a hazard ranking of 3 when dispensed from approved containers not exceeding 5.3 gallons (20 L). Revise IFC Section as follows: Page 28 of 48