Building Commission Chapter 170-X-2
ALABAMA BUILDING COMMISSION
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
CHAPTER 170-X-2
ALABAMA STATE BUILDING CODE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
170-X-2-.01 Adopted Standard Codes
170-X-2-.02 Official ^^Recommendations''
170-X-2-.03 Obtaining The Adopted Codes
170-X-2-.04 Applicability Of Adopted Codes
170-X-2-.05 Precedence Of Codes
170-X-2-.06 Responsibility For Compliance
170-X-2-.07 ABC Code Supplements
Attachment
170-X-2-.01 Adopted Standard Codes .
(1) The minimum building standard codes adopted by
reference and enforced by the Alabama Building Commission are all
of the following:
(a) 2006 - International Building Code.
(b) 2006 - International Plumbing Code.
(c) 2006 - International Fuel Gas Code.
(d) 2006 - International Mechanical Code.
(e) 2008 - National Electrical Code.
(f) 2006 - International Fire Code.
(g) 2004 - Alabama Building Energy Conservation Code.
(h) Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility
Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: State and Local
Governments (ADAAG) .
(i) ABC Code Supplements.
(2) The requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Supp. 3/31/08 2-1
Chapter 170-X-2 Building Commission
Facilities supersede the handicapped requirements contained in
the Standard Building Code.
Author: Kippy Tate, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§21-4-3, 41-9-161,
41-9-171.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997. Amended: Filed September 18, 2001; effective
October 23, 2001; operative November 1, 2001. Amended: Filed
October 16, 2003; effective November 20, 2003. Amended: Filed
March 14, 2005; effective April 18, 2005. Amended: Filed
August 6, 2007; effective September 10, 2007; operative
October 1, 2007. Amended: Filed January 4, 2008; effective
February 8, 2008.
170-X-2-.02 Official ^^Recommendations ^^ . The Commission adopts
by reference, as official ''recommendations'' rather than as mandated
regulations. Chapter 5 of the Architectural and Transportation
Barriers Compliance Board (ATBCB) publication; ''Recommendations for
Accessibility Standards for Children's Environments".
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§21-4-3, 41-9-161.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
170-X-2-.03 Obtaining The Adopted Codes . The Technical Staff
shall publish in the Manual of Procedures the necessary information
to obtain copies of the adopted codes and official recommendations.
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§41-9-141, 41-9-161,
41-9-171.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
170-X-2-.04 Applicability Of Adopted Codes .
(1) Except as stated in paragraphs (2) and (3), the
STATE BUILDING CODE applies only to the following construction in
Alabama:
(a) STATE BUILDING and CONSTRUCTION: All buildings and
other structures erected or acquired by or in behalf of the State
of Alabama or any of its agencies or instrumentalities.
Supp. 3/31/08 2-2
Building Commission Chapter 170-X-2
(b) SCHOOLHOUSES: Any building or other structure
erected or acquired by the public schools of Alabama and also shall
mean any private building in which 25 or more persons are
congregated regularly for the purpose of instruction in any branch
of knowledge.
(c) HOTELS: Any public inn or lodging house of 15 or
more bedrooms, in which transient guests are lodged for pay.
(d) MOVING PICTURE THEATERS: Any building in which
moving pictures are featured regularly for charge of admission.
(2) The ALABAMA BUILDING ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
applies only to all buildings constructed or remodeled with state
appropriated funds or funds from any other instrumentality of the
state.
(3) The Commission's responsibility to review plans and
specifications for compliance with handicapped accessibility
standards prescribed by the State Fire Marshal applies only to all
buildings and facilities used by the public which are constructed
in whole or in part by the use of state, county, or municipal
funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state.
(See §21-4-6 for shared jurisdiction.)
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§21-4-4, 41-9-163, 41-9-171.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
170-X-2-.05 Precedence Of Codes .
(a) In case of conflict between the State Building
Code, local codes, the Life Safety Code enforced by the State Fire
Marshal, or other codes, the most stringent requirements shall
prevail .
(b) All food preparation facilities, private water
systems, and sewage disposal systems shall also meet the
requirements of and be approved by the applicable county health
department.
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §41-9-141.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
Supp. 3/31/08 2-3
Chapter 170-X-2 Building Commission
170-X-2-.06 Responsibility For Compliance . The compliance of
plans and specifications with code requirements, is the
responsibility of the primary design professional and the awarding
authority and approval of these documents by the Technical Staff
does not relieve the primary design professional or the awarding
authority of this responsibility.
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§41-9-141.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
170-X-2.-07 ABC Code Supplements . To minimize reoccurring
problems on public construction and improvement projects, from time
to time the Commission will adopt and publish specific design and
construction requirements or recommendations to supplement the
State Building Code. The following requirements and
recommendations are adopted and bound at the end of this chapter:
(a) ABC Code Supplement No. 1, LABELING OF FIRE DOORS
AND FRAMES
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§41-9-141, 41-9-161.
History: Repealed and Replaced: Filed August 29, 1997; effective
October 3, 1997.
Supp. 3/31/08 2-4
Building Commission Chapter 170-X-2
ATTACHMENT
170-X-2-.07(a)
ABC CODE SUPPLEMENT No. 1
LABELING OF FIRE DOORS AND FRAMES
All door openings in fire resistive walls and partitions
requiring a rating shall be protected by assemblies which include
doors, frames, hardware, closing devices, anchorage, sills, etc.,
installed in accordance with the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) 80, Standard for ''Fire Doors and Fire Windows''
and the State Building Code.
To further clarify the basic requirements and/or the correct
method of labeling that will be acceptable to the Alabama Building
Commission, the labels shall include the following:
1. Accessibility : Each component shall bear a label
located so as to be accessible after installation.
2. Permanence : Each component shall bear a label of a
type of material and be so attached that the life of the label and
the attachment thereof can reasonably be expected to equal the life
of the component to which it is attached. Labels shall be raised
or embossed on metal labels or stamped into metal frames. Plastic
or paper labels are unacceptable.
3. Legibility: The label design shall be such that it
can be visible and legible at all times and must be clean of any
paint or other coverage making the label illegible.
4. Fire Resistance: All approved labels on doors and
on frames shall include thereon the fire resistance rating in hours
and/or minutes for which the door or frame is labeled. Labels on
frames with transoms or sidelights must identify that the opening
assembly includes same.
5. Other Requirements: The labels or stamps applied
to frames must be provided by a manufacturer that has been approved
by a laboratory or organization to provide testing and follow-up
services for fire-rated opening assemblies.
Author: Stedmann B. McCollough, Director
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975 , §§41-9-141; 41-9-161.
History: New: Filed August 29, 1997; effective October 3, 1997.
Supp. 3/31/08 2-5
A Member of the International Code Family^
NTERNATIONAL
I
Fire
Code
INTERNATIONAL
CODE COUNCIL®
2006
2006 International Fire Code^
First Printing: January 2006
ISBN-13: 978-1-58001-255-3 (soft)
ISBN-10: 1-58001-255-8 (soft)
ISBN-13: 978-1-58001-254-6 (loose-leaf)
ISBN-10: 1-58001-254-X (loose-leaf)
ISBN-13: 978-1-58001-304-8 (e-document)
ISBN-10: 1-58001-304-X (e-document)
COPYRIGHT © 2006
by
INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This 2006 International Fire Code® is a copyrighted work owned by the International Code Council,
Inc. Without advance written permission from the copyright owner, no part of this book may be reproduced, distributed, or transmit-
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Trademarks: "International Code Council," the "International Code Council" logo and the "International Fire Code" are trademarks
of the International Code Council, Inc.
1106P-13343 PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
PREFACE
Introduction
Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modem, up-to-date fire code addressing conditions hazardous to life and
property from fire, explosion, handling or use of hazardous materials and the use and occupancy of buildings and premises. The
International Fire Code®, in this 2006 edition, is designed to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard the
public health and safety in all communities, large and small.
This comprehensive fire code establishes minimum regulations for fire prevention and fire protection systems using prescriptive
and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new
system designs. This 2006 edition is fully compatible with all the International Codes® (I-Codes®) published by the International
Code Council (ICC)®, including the International Building Code®, ICC Electrical Code®, International Energy Conservation
Code®, International Existing Building Code®, International Fuel Gas Code®, International Mechanical Code®, ICC Performance
Code®, International Plumbing Code®, International Private Sewage Disposal Code®, International Property Maintenance Code®,
International Residential Code®, International Wildland-Urban Interface Code'^^ and International Zoning Code®.
The International Fire Code provisions provide many benefits, among which is the model code development process that offers
an international forum for fire safety professionals to discuss performance and prescriptive code requirements. This forum provides
an excellent arena to debate proposed revisions. This model code also encourages international consistency in the application of
provisions.
Development
The first edition of the International Fire Code (2000) was the culmination of an effort initiated in 1997 by a development commit-
tee appointed by ICC and consisting of representatives of the three statutory members of the International Code Council: Building
Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) and South-
em Building Code Congress Intemational (SBCCI). The intent was to draft a comprehensive set of fire safety regulations consistent
with and inclusive of the scope of the existing model codes. Technical content of the latest model codes promulgated by BOCA,
ICBO and SBCCI was utilized as the basis for the development, followed by public hearings in 1998 and 1999 to consider proposed
changes. This 2006 edition presents the code as originally issued, with changes reflected in the 2003 edition and further changes
approved through the ICC Code Development Process through 2005 . A new edition such as this is promulgated every three years.
This code is founded on principles intended to establish provisions consistent with the scope of a fire code that adequately pro-
tects public health, safety and welfare; provisions that do not unnecessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not
restrict the use of new materials, products or methods of constmction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to par-
ticular types or classes of materials, products or methods of constmction.
Adoption
The International Fire Code is available for adoption and use by jurisdictions intemationally. Its use within a governmental jurisdic-
tion is intended to be accomplished through adoption by reference in accordance with proceedings establishing the jurisdiction's
laws. At the time of adoption, jurisdictions should insert the appropriate information in provisions requiring specific local informa-
tion, such as the name of the adopting jurisdiction. These locations are shown in bracketed words in small capital letters in the code
and in the sample ordinance. The sample adoption ordinance on page v addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordi-
nance, including the information required for insertion into the code text.
Maintenance
The International Fire Code is kept up-to-date through the review of proposed changes submitted by code enforcing officials,
industry representatives, design professionals and other interested parties. Proposed changes are carefully considered through an
open code development process in which all interested and affected parties may participate.
The contents of this work are subject to change both through the Code Development Cycles and the govemmental body that
enacts the code into law. For more information regarding the code development process, contact the Code and Standard Develop-
ment Department of the Intemational Code Council.
While the development procedure of the International Fire Code assures the highest degree of care, ICC, its members and those
participating in the development of this code do not accept any liability resulting from compliance or noncompliance with the provi-
sions because ICC and its founding members do not have the power or authority to police or enforce compliance with the contents of
this code. Only the govemmental body that enacts the code into law has such authority.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® ill
Letter Designations in Front of Section Numbers
In each code development cycle, proposed changes to the code are considered at the Code Development Hearings by the ICC Fire
Code Development Committee, whose action constitutes a recommendation to the voting membership for final action on the pro-
posed change. Proposed changes to a code section that has a number beginning with a letter in brackets are considered by a different
code development conunittee. For example, proposed changes to code sections that have [B] in front of them (e.g. [B] 607.2) are
considered by the ICC Building Code Development Committee at the code development hearings.
The content of sections in this code that begin with a letter designation are maintained by another code development committee in
accordance with the following:
[B] = International Building Code Development Committee;
[EB] = International Existing Building Code Development Committee;
[EG] = International Fuel Gas Code Development Committee;
[M] = International Mechanical Code Development Committee; and
[P] = International Plumbing Code Development Committee.
l\/iarginal IVIarkings
Solid vertical lines in the margins within the body of the code indicate a technical change from the requirements of the 2003 edition.
Deletion indicators in the form of an arrow ( ^ ) are provided in the margin where an entire section, paragraph, exception or table
has been deleted or an item in a list of items or a table has been deleted.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
ORDINANCE
The International Codes are designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference by ordinance. Jurisdictions wishing to adopt the
2006 International Fire Code as an enforceable regulation governing regulating and governing the safeguarding of life and property
from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from
conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises should ensure that certain factual information is
included in the adopting ordinance at the time adoption is being considered by the appropriate governmental body. The following
sample adoption ordinance addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information required for
insertion into the code text.
SAMPLE ORDINANCE FOR ADOPTION OF
THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
ORDINANCE NO.
An ordinance of the [JURISDICTION] adopting the 2006 edition of the International Fire Code, regulating and governing the safe-
guarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances,
materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises in the [JURIS-
DICTION]; providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor; repealing Ordinance No. of the [JURISDIC-
TION] and all other ordinances and parts of the ordinances in conflict therewith.
The [GOVERNING BODY] of the [JURISDICTION] does ordain as follows:
Section 1. That a certain document, three (3) copies of which are on file in the office of the [TITLE OF JURISDICTION'S KEEPER OF
RECORDS] of [NAME OF JURISDICTION], being marked and designated as the International Fire Code, 2006 edition, including
Appendix Chapters [FILL IN THE APPENDIX CHAPTERS BEING ADOPTED] (see International Fire Code Section 101.2.1, 2006 edi-
tion), as published by the International Code Council, be and is hereby adopted as the Fire Code of the [JURISDICTION], in the State
of [STATE NAME] regulating and governing the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the
storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the
occupancy of buildings and premises as herein provided; providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor; and
each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions and terms of said Fire Code on file in the office of the [JURISDIC-
TION] are hereby referred to, adopted, and made a part hereof, as if fully set out in this ordinance, with the additions, insertions, dele-
tions and changes, if any, prescribed in Section 2 of this ordinance.
Section 2. That the following sections are hereby revised:
Section 101.1 Insert: [NAME OF JURISDICTION]
Section 109.3. Insert: [OFFENSE, DOLLAR AMOUNT, NUMBER OF DAYS]
Section 111.4. Insert: [DOLLAR AMOUNT IN TWO LOCATIONS]
Section 3. That the geographic limits referred to in certain sections of the 2006 International Fire Code are hereby established as
follows:
Section 3204.3.1.1 (geographic limits in which the storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers is prohib-
ited): [JURISDICTION TO SPECIFY]
Section 3404.2.9.5.1 (geographic limits in which the storage of Class I and Class II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of
buildings is prohibited): [JURISDICTION TO SPECIFY]
Section 3406.2.4.4 (geographic limits in which the storage of Class I and Class II liquids in above-ground tanks is prohib-
ited): [JURISDICTION TO SPECIFY]
Section 3804.2 (geographic limits in which the storage of liquefied petroleum gas is restricted for the protection of heavily
populated or congested areas): [JURISDICTION TO SPECIFY]
Section 4. That Ordinance No. of [JURISDICTION] entitled [FILL IN HERE THE COMPLETE TITLE OF THE ORDINANCE OR
ORDINANCES IN EFFECT AT THE PRESENT TIME SO THAT THEY WILL BE REPEALED BY SPECIFIC REFERENCE] and all Other ordi-
nances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Section S.That if any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional,
such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The [GOVERNING BODY] hereby declares that it
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® v
would have passed this ordinance, and each section, subsection, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more
sections, subsections, sentences, clauses and phrases be declared unconstitutional.
Section 6. That nothing in this ordinance or in the Fire Code hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or proceeding
impending in any court, or any rights acquired, or liability incurred, or any cause or causes of action acquired or existing, under any
act or ordinance hereby repealed as cited in Section 4 of this ordinance; nor shall any just or legal right or remedy of any character be
lost, impaired or affected by this ordinance.
Section 7. That the [JURISDICTION'S KEEPER OF RECORDS] is hereby ordered and directed to cause this ordinance to be pubhshed.
(An additional provision may be required to direct the number of times the ordinance is to be published and to specify that it is to be
in a newspaper in general circulation. Posting may also be required.)
Section 8. That this ordinance and the rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders and matters established and adopted
hereby shall take effect and be in full force and effect ]JME PERIOD] from and after the date of its final passage and adoption.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATION 1
Section
101 General 1
102 Applicability 1
103 Department of Fire Prevention 2
104 General Authority and Responsibilities 2
105 Permits 3
106 Inspections 10
107 Maintenance 10
108 Board of Appeals 10
109 Violations 11
110 Unsafe Buildings 11
111 Stop Work Order 11
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS 13
Section
201 General 13
202 General Definitions 13
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
AGAINST FIRE 27
Section
301 General 27
302 Definitions 27
303 Asphalt Kettles 27
304 Combustible Waste Material 27
305 Ignition Sources 28
306 Motion Picture Projection Rooms and Film .... 28
307 Open Burning and Recreational Fires 28
308 Open Flames 29
309 Powered Industrial Trucks and Equipment 31
310 Smoking 31
311 Vacant Premises 31
312 Vehicle Impact Protection 32
313 Fueled Equipment 32
314 Indoor Displays 33
315 Miscellaneous Combustible Materials Storage . . 33
CHAPTER 4 EMERGENCY PLANNING
AND PREPAREDNESS 35
Section
401 General 35
402 Definitions 35
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
403 Public Assemblages and Events 35
404 Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans 35
405 Emergency Evacuation Drills : ... 36
406 Employee Training and Response Procedures ... 37
407 Hazard Communication 37
408 Use and Occupancy-related Requirements 38
CHAPTER 5 FIRE SERVICE FEATURES 41
Section
501 General 41
502 Definitions 41
503 Fire Apparatus Access Roads 41
504 Access to Building Openings and Roofs 42
505 Premises Identification 42
506 Key Boxes 42
507 Hazards to Fire Fighters 43
508 Fire Protection Water Supplies 43
509 Fire Command Center 44
510 Fire Department Access to Equipment 44
CHAPTER 6 BUILDING SERVICES
AND SYSTEMS 45
Section
601 General 45
602 Definitions 45
603 Fuel-fired Appliances 45
604 Emergency and Standby Power Systems 47
605 Electrical Equipment, Wiring and Hazards 49
606 Mechanical Refrigeration 50
607 Elevator Recall and Maintenance 52
608 Stationary Storage Battery Systems 52
609 Commercial Kitchen Hoods 54
CHAPTER 7 FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED
CONSTRUCTION 55
Section
701 General 55
702 Definitions 55
703 Fire-resistance-rated Construction 55
704 Floor Openings and Shafts 55
vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE
MATERIALS AND
FURNISHINGS 57
Section
801 General 57
802 Definitions 57
803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish and
Trim in Existing Buildings 57
804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim in
New and Existing Buildings 59
805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in
New and Exisiting Buildings 59
806 Decorative Vegetation in New and
Existing Buildings 61
807 Decorative Materials Other Than Decorative
Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings ... 62
808 Furnishings Other Than Upholstered
Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative
Materials in New and Existing Buildings .... 63
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS .... 65
Section
901 General 65
902 Definitions 66
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems 69
904 Alternative Automatic Fire-extinguishing
Systems 74
905 Standpipe Systems 77
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers 79
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems 81
908 Emergency Alarm Systems 90
909 Smoke Control Systems 90
910 Smoke and Heat Vents 96
911 Explosion Control 98
912 Fire Department Connections 99
913 Fire Pumps 100
914 Fire Protection Based on Special Detailed
Requirements of Use and Occupancy 100
CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS 103
Section
1001 Administration 103
1002 Definitions 103
1003 General Means of Egress 104
1004 Occupant Load 105
1005 Egress Width 106
1006 Means of Egress Illumination 107
1007 Accessible Means of Egress 107
viii
1008 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles 109
1009 Stairways 114
1010 Ramps 117
1011 Exit Signs 118
1012 Handrails 118
1013 Guards 119
1014 Exit Access 120
1015 Exit and Exit Access Doorways 122
1016 Exit Access Travel Distance 123
1017 Corridors 124
1018 Exits 125
1019 Number of Exits and Continuity 125
1020 Vertical Exit Enclosures 126
1021 Exit Passageways 127
1022 Horizontal Exits 128
1023 Exterior Exit Ramps and Stairways 129
1024 Exit Discharge 129
1025 Assembly 130
1026 Emergency Escape and Rescue 135
1027 Means of Egress for Existing Buildings 136
1028 Maintenance of the Means of Egress 140
CHAPTER 11 AVIATION FACILITIES 143
Section
1101 General 143
1 102 Definitions 143
1 103 General Precautions 143
1 104 Aircraft Maintenance 143
1 105 Portable Fire Extinguishers 144
1 106 Aircraft Fueling 144
1 107 Helistops and Heliports 149
CHAPTER 12 DRY CLEANING 151
Section
1201 General 151
1202 Definitions 151
1203 Classifications 151
1204 General Requirements 151
1205 Operating Requirements 152
1206 Spotting and Pretreating 152
1207 Dry Cleaning Systems 153
1208 Fire Protection 153
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 13 COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING
OPERATIONS 155
Section
1301 General 155
1302 Definitions 155
1303 Precautions 155
1304 Explosion Protection 155
CHAPTER 14 FIRE SAFETY DURING
CONSTRUCTION AND
DEMOLITION 157
Section
1401 General 157
1402 Definitions 157
1403 Temporary Heating Equipment 157
1404 Precautions Against Fire 157
1405 Flammable and Combustible Liquids 157
1406 Flammable Gases 158
1407 Explosive Materials 158
1408 Owner's Responsibility for Fire Protection .... 158
1409 Fire Reporting .158
1410 Access for Fire Fighting 158
141 1 Means of Egress 158
1412 Water Supply for Fire Protection 158
1413 Standpipes 159
1414 Automatic Sprinkler System 159
1415 Portable Fire Extinguishers 159
1416 Motorized Equipment 159
1417 Safeguarding Roofing Operations 159
CHAPTER 15 FLAMMABLE FINISHES 161
Section
1501 General 161
1502 Definitions 161
1503 Protection of Operations 162
1504 Spray Finishing 163
1505 Dipping Operations 167
1506 Powder Coating 168
1507 Electrostatic Apparatus 169
1508 Organic Peroxides and Dual-component
Coatings 169
1509 Indoor Manufacturing of Reinforced Plastics . . 170
1510 Floor Surfacing and Finishing Operations 170
CHAPTER 16 FRUIT AND CROP RIPENING ... 173
Section
1601 General 173
1602 Definitions 173
1603 Ethylene Gas 173
1604 Sources of Ignition 173
1605 Combustible Waste 173
1606 Ethylene Generators 173
1607 Warning Signs 173
CHAPTER 17 FUMIGATION AND THERMAL
INSECTICIDAL FOGGING 175
Section
1701 General 175
1702 Definitions 175
1703 Fire Safety Requirements 175
CHAPTER 18 SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION
FACILITIES 177
Section
1801 General 177
1802 Definitions 177
1803 General Safety Provisions 177
1804 Storage 181
1805 Use and Handling 183
CHAPTER 19 LUMBER YARDS AND
WOODWORKING FACILITIES. . . 187
Section
1901 General 187
1902 Definitions 187
1903 General Requirements 187
1904 Fire Protection 187
1905 Plywood, Veneer and Composite Board
Mills 188
1906 Log Storage Areas 188
1907 Storage of Wood Chips and Hogged Material
Associated With Timber and Lumber
Production Facilities 188
1908 Storage and Processing of Wood Chips, Hogged
Material, Fines, Compost and Raw Product
Associated With Yard Waste and Recycling
Facilities 188
1909 Exterior Storage of Finished Lumber
Products 189
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 20 MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC
COATINGS 191
Section
2001 General 191
2002 Definitions 191
2003 General Precautions 191
2004 Electrical Equipment and Protection 191
2005 Process Structures 192
2006 Process Mills and Kettles 192
2007 Process Piping 192
2008 Raw Materials in Process Areas 193
2009 Raw Materials and Finished Products 193
CHAPTER 21 INDUSTRIAL OVENS 195
Section
2101 General 195
2102 Definitions 195
2103 Location 195
2104 Fuel Piping 195
2105 Interlocks 195
2106 Fire Protection 196
2107 Operation and Maintenance 196
CHAPTER 22 MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITIES AND REPAIR
GARAGES 197
Section
2201 General 197
2202 Definitions 197
2203 Location of Dispensing Devices 197
2204 Dispensing Operations 198
2205 Operational Requirements 199
2206 Flammable and Combustible Liquid Motor
Fuel-dispensing Facilities 199
2207 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Motor
Fuel-dispensing Facilities 203
2208 Compressed Natural Gas Motor
Fuel-dispensing Facilities 204
2209 Hydrogen Motor Fuel-dispensing and
Generation Facilities 206
2210 Marine Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities 209
221 1 Repair Garages 211
CHAPTER 23 HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE
STORAGE 215
Section
2301 General 215
2302 Definitions 215
2303 Commodity Classification 216
2304 Designation of High-piled Storage Areas 218
2305 Housekeeping and Maintenance 218
2306 General Fire Protection and Life Safety
Features 218
2307 Solid-piled and Shelf Storage 222
2308 Rack Storage 222
2309 Automated Storage 222
2310 Specialty Storage 223
CHAPTER 24 TENTS, CANOPIES AND OTHER
MEMBRANE STRUCTURES 225
Section
2401 General 225
2402 Definitions 225
2403 Temporary Tents, Canopies and Membrane
Structures 225
2404 Temporary and Permanent Tents, Canopies
and Membrane Structures 227
CHAPTER 25 TIRE REBUILDING AND
TIRE STORAGE 231
Section
2501 General 231
2502 Definitions 231
2503 Tire Rebuilding 231
2504 Precautions Against Fire 23 1
2505 Outdoor Storage 231
2506 Fire Department Access 232
2507 Fencing 232
2508 Fire Protection 232
2509 Indoor Storage Arrangement 232
CHAPTER 26 WELDING AND OTHER
HOT WORK 233
Section
2601 General 233
2602 Definitions 233
2603 General Requirements 233
2604 Fire Safety Requirements 234
2605 Gas Welding and Cutting 235
2606 Electric Arc Hot Work 235
2607 Calcium Carbide Systems 235
2608 Acetylene Generators 235
2609 Piping Manifolds and Hose Systems for
Fuel Gases and Oxygen 235
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 27 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS-
GENERAL PROVISIONS 237
Section
2701 General 237
2702 Definitions 239
2703 General Requirements 241
2704 Storage 254
2705 Use, Dispensing and Handling 258
CHAPTER 28 AEROSOLS 263
Section
2801 General 263
2802 Definitions 263
2803 Classification of Aerosol Products 263
2804 Inside Storage of Aerosol Products 263
2805 Outside Storage 265
2806 Retail Display 266
2807 Manufacturing Facilities 267
CHAPTER 29 COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS 269
Section
2901 General 269
2902 Definitions 269
2903 General Precautions 269
2904 Loose Fiber Storage 269
2905 Baled Storage 270
CHAPTER 30 COMPRESSED GASES 271
Section
3001 General 271
3002 Definitions 271
3003 General Requirements 271
3004 Storage of Compressed Gases 275
3005 Use and Handling of Compressed Gases 275
3006 Medical Gas Systems 275
3007 Compressed Gases Not Otherwise Regulated . . 276
CHAPTER 31 CORROSIVE MATERIALS 277
Section
3101 General 277
3102 Definitions 277
3103 General Requirements 277
3104 Storage 277
3105 Use 277
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
CHAPTER 32 CRYOGENIC FLUIDS 279
Section
3201 General 279
3202 Definitions 279
3203 General Requirements 279
3204 Storage 281
3205 Use and Handling 283
CHAPTER 33 EXPLOSIVES AND
FIREWORKS 285
Section
3301 General 285
3302 Definitions 288
3303 Record Keeping and Reporting 291
3304 Explosive Materials Storage and Handling .... 291
3305 Manufacture, Assembly and Testing of
Explosives, Explosive Materials and
Fireworks 298
3306 Small Arms Ammunition 300
3307 Blasting 302
3308 Fireworks Display 303
CHAPTER 34 FLAMMABLE AND
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS 305
Section
3401 General 305
3402 Definitions 305
3403 General Requirements 306
3404 Storage 310
3405 Dispensing, Use, Mixing and Handling 329
3406 Special Operations 334
CHAPTER 35 FLAMMABLE GASES 345
Section
3501 General 345
3502 Definitions 345
3503 General Requirements 345
3504 Storage 346
3505 Use 346
CHAPTER 36 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS 347
Section
3601 General 347
3602 Definitions 347
3603 General Requirements 347
3604 Storage 347
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3605 Use 347
3606 Magnesium 347
CHAPTER 37 HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC
MATERIALS 351
Section
3701 General 351
3702 Definitions 351
3703 Highly Toxic and Toxic Solids and Liquids. . . . 352
3704 Highly Toxic and Toxic Compressed Gases ... 353
3705 Ozone Gas Generators 357
CHAPTER 38 LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM
GASES 359
Section
3801 General 359
3802 Definitions 359
3803 Installation of Equipment 359
3804 Location of Containers 360
3805 Prohibited Use of LP-gas 361
3806 Dispensing and Overfilling 361
3807 Safety Precautions and Devices 361
3808 Fire Protection 361
3809 Storage of Portable LP-gas Containers
Awaiting Use or Resale 361
3810 Containers Not in Service 363
3811 Parking and Garaging 363
CHAPTER 39 ORGANIC PEROXIDES 365
Section
3901 General 365
3902 Definitions 365
3903 General Requirements 365
3904 Storage 365
3905 Use 367
CHAPTER 40 OXIDIZERS 369
Section
4001 General 369
4002 Definitions 369
4003 General Requirements 369
4004 Storage 370
4005 Use 371
CHAPTER 41 PYROPHORIC MATERIALS 373
Section
4101 General 373
4102 Definitions 373
4103 General Requirements 373
4104 Storage 373
4105 Use 374
4106 Silane Gas 374
CHAPTER 42 PYROXYLIN (CELLULOSE
NITRATE) PLASTICS 377
4201 General 377
4202 Definitions 377
4203 General Requirements 377
4204 Storage and Handling 377
CHAPTER 43 UNSTABLE (REACTIVE)
MATERIALS 379
Section
4301 General 379
4302 Definitions 379
4303 General Requirements 379
4304 Storage 380
4305 Use 380
CHAPTER 44 WATER-REACTIVE SOLIDS AND
LIQUIDS 381
Section
4401 General 381
4402 Definitions 381
4403 General Requirements 381
4404 Storage 381
4405 Use 382
CHAPTER 45 REFERENCED STANDARDS 383
APPENDIX A BOARD OF APPEALS 391
Section
AlOl General 391
APPENDIX B FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS
FOR BUILDINGS 393
Section
BlOl General 393
B102 Definitions 393
XII
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
TABLE OF CONTENTS
B103 Modifications 393
B104 Fire-flow Calculation Area 393
B105 Fire-flow Requirements for Buildings 393
B106 Referenced Standards 393
APPENDIX C FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS
AND DISTRIBUTION 395
Section
ClOl General 395
C102 Location 395
C103 Number of Fire Hydrants 395
C104 Consideration of Existing Fire Hydrants 395
CI 05 Distribution of Fire Hydrants 395
APPENDIX D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS
ROADS 397
Section
DlOl General 397
D102 Required Access 397
D103 Minimum Specifications 397
D104 Commercial and Industrial Developments 398
D105 Aerial Fire Apparatus Access Roads 398
D106 Multiple-family Residential Developments .... 398
D107 One- or Two-family Residential
Developments 399
APPENDIX E HAZARD CATEGORIES 401
Section
ElOl General 401
E102 Hazard Categories 401
E103 Evaluation of Hazards 404
APPENDIX F HAZARD RANKING 407
Section
FlOl General 407
F102 Referenced Standards 407
APPENDIX G CRYOGENIC FLUIDS— WEIGHT
AND VOLUME EQUIVALENTS. . . 409
Section
GlOl General 409
INDEX 411
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® xili
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 101
GENERAL
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code
of [NAME OF JURISDICTION], hereinafter referred to as "this
code."
101.2 Scope. This code establishes regulations affecting or
relating to structures, processes, premises and safeguards
regarding:
1. The hazard of fire and explosion arising from the stor-
age, handling or use of structures, materials or devices;
2. Conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare
in the occupancy of structures or premises;
3. Fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from
occupancy or operation;
4. Matters related to the construction, extension, repair,
alteration or removal of fire suppression or alarm sys-
tems.
101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not
apply unless specifically adopted.
101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the mini-
mum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good
practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and prop-
erty protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous
conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and pre-
mises and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency
responders during emergency operations.
101.4 Severability. If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or
phrase of this code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitu-
tional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remain-
ing portions of this code.
101.5 Validity. In the event any part or provision of this code is
held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making
void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions hereof, which
are determined to be legal; and it shall be presumed that this
code would have been adopted without such illegal or invalid
parts or provisions.
SECTION 102
APPLICABILITY
102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction
and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
. 1. Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the
adoption of this code.
2. Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally
in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions when iden-
tified in specific sections of this code.
4. Existing structures, facilities and conditions which, in
the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct
hazard to life or property.
102.2 Administrative, operational and maintenance provi-
sions. The administrative, operational and maintenance provi-
sions of this code shall apply to:
1 . Conditions and operations arising after the adoption of
this code.
2. Existing conditions and operations.
102.3 Change of use or occupancy. No change shall be made
in the use or occupancy of any structure that would place the
structure in a different division of the same group or occupancy
or in a different group of occupancies, unless such structure is
made to comply with the requirements of this code and the
International Building Code. Subject to the approval of the fire
code official, the use or occupancy of an existing structure shall
be allowed to be changed and the structure is allowed to be
occupied for purposes in other groups without conforming to
all the requirements of this code and the International Building
Code for those groups, provided the new or proposed use is less
hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use.
102.4 Application of building code. The design and construc-
tion of new structures shall comply with the International
Building Code, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or
changes in structures required by this code, which are within
the scope of the International Building Code, shall be made in
accordance therewith.
102.5 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating
to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration,
relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be
mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and
classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings
when such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct
hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic
buildings and structures shall be provided in accordance with
an approved fire protection plan.
102.6 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and stan-
dards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in
Chapter 45 and such codes and standards shall be considered
part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of
each such reference. Where differences occur between the pro-
visions of this code and the referenced standards, the provi-
sions of this code shall apply.
102.7 Subjects not regulated by this code. Where no applica-
ble standards or requirements are set forth in this code, or are
contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or
bylaws adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable
standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other
nationally recognized fire safety standards, as approved, shall
be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the
intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the
authority of the fire code official to determine compliance with
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^^
ADMINISTRATION
codes or standards for those activities or installations within the
fire code official's jurisdiction or responsibility.
102.8 Matters not provided for. Requirements that are essen-
tial for the pubhc safety of an existing or proposed activity,
building or structure, or for the safety of the occupants thereof,
which are not specifically provided for by this code shall be
determined by the fire code official.
102.9 Conflicting provisions. Where there is a conflict
between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the
specific requirement shall be applicable.
SECTION 103
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PREVENTION
103.1 General. The department of fire prevention is estab-
lished within the jurisdiction under the direction of the fire
code official. The function of the department shall be the
implementation, administration and enforcement of the provi-
sions of this code.
103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed
by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction; and the fire
code official shall not be removed from office except for cause
and after full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant
charges by and before the appointing authority.
103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures
of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing
authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to
appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical offi-
cers, inspectors and other employees.
103.4 Liability. The fire code official, officer or employee
charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the
jurisdiction, shall not thereby be rendered liable personally,
and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any dam-
age accruing to persons or property as a result of an act required
or permitted in the discharge of official duties.
103.4.1 Legal defense. Any suit instituted against any offi-
cer or employee because of an act performed by that officer
or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the
provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal repre-
sentative of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the
proceedings. The fire code official or any subordinate shall
not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is
instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code; and
any officer of the department of fire prevention, acting in
good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for
acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of
any act or omission in the performance of official duties in
connection therewith.
SECTION 104
GENERAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES
104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to
enforce the provisions of this code and shall have the authority
to render interpretations of this code, and to adopt policies, pro-
cedures, rules and regulations in order to clarify the application
of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures.
rules and regulations shall be in compliance with the intent and
purpose of this code and shall not have the effect of waiving ■
requirements specifically provided for in this code.
104.2 Applications and permits. The fire code official is
authorized to receive applications, review construction docu-
ments and issue permits for construction regulated by this
code, issue permits for operations regulated by this code,
inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued
and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
104.3 Right of entry. Whenever it is necessary to make an
inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or whenever
the fire code official has reasonable cause to believe that there
exists in a building or upon any premises any conditions or vio-
lations of this code which make the building or premises
unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the fire code official shall have
the authority to enter the building or premises at all reasonable
times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the fire
code official by this code. If such building or premises is occu-
pied, the fire code official shall present credentials to the occu-
pant and request entry. If such building or premises is
unoccupied, the fire code official shall first make a reasonable
effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or con-
trol of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is
refused, the fire code official has recourse to every remedy pro-
vided by law to secure entry.
104.3.1 Warrant. When the fire code official has first
obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy pro-
vided by law to secure entry, an owner or occupant or person
having charge, care or control of the building or premises
shall not fail or neglect, after proper request is made as
herein provided, to permit entry therein by the fire code offi-
cial for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant
to this code.
104.4 Identification. The fire code official shall carry proper
identification when inspecting structures or premises in the
performance of duties under this code.
104.5 Notices and orders. The fire code official is authorized
to issue such notices or orders as are required to affect compli-
ance with this code in accordance with Sections 109.1 and
109.2.
104.6 Official records. The fire code official shall keep official
records as required by Sections 104.6.1 through 104.6.4. Such
official records shall be retained for not less than five years or
for as long as the structure or activity to which such records
relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other
regulations.
104.6.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be main-
tained by the fire code official and shall be available for pub-
lic inspection during business hours in accordance with
applicable laws.
104.6.2 Inspections. The fire code official shall keep a
record of each inspection made, including notices and
orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.
104.6.3 Fire records. The fire department shall keep a
record of fires occurring within its jurisdiction and of facts
concerning the same, including statistics as to the extent of
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
ADMINISTRATION
such fires and the damage caused thereby, together with
other information as required by the fire code official.
104.6.4 Administrative. Application for modification,
alternative methods or materials and the final decision of the
fire code official shall be in writing and shall be officially
recorded in the permanent records of the fire code official.
104.7 Approved materials and equipment. All materials,
equipment and devices approved by the fire code official shall
be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
104.7.1 Material and equipment reuse. Materials, equip-
ment and devices shall not be reused or reinstalled unless
such elements have been reconditioned, tested and placed in
good and proper working condition and approved.
104.7.2 Technical assistance. To determine the acceptabil-
ity of technologies, processes, products, facilities, materials
and uses attending the design, operation or use of a building
or premises subject to inspection by the fire code official,
the fire code official is authorized to require the owner or
agent to provide, without charge to the jurisdiction, a techni-
cal opinion and report. The opinion and report shall be pre-
pared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire
safety specialty organization acceptable to the fire code offi-
cial and shall analyze the fire safety properties of the design,
operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities
and appurtenances situated thereon, to recommend neces-
sary changes. The fire code official is authorized to require
design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a
registered design professional.
104.8 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties
involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the fire
code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for
individual cases, provided the fire code official shall first find
that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code
impractical and the modification is in compliance with the
intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does
not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details
of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered
in the files of the department of fire prevention.
104.9 Alternative materials and methods. The provisions of
this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any
material or to prohibit any method of construction not specifi-
cally prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative
has been approved. The fire code official is authorized to
approve an alternative material or method of construction
where the fire code official finds that the proposed design is sat-
isfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this
code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the
purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in
this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance,
durability and safety.
104.10 Fire investigations. The fire code official, the fire
department or other responsible authority shall have the
authority to investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of
any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition. Information
that could be related to trade secrets or processes shall not be
made part of the public record except as directed by a court of
law.
104.10.1 Assistance from other agencies. Police and other
enforcement agencies shall have authority to render neces-
sary assistance in the investigation of fires when requested
to do so.
104.11 Authority at fires and other emergencies. The fire
chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of a
fire or other emergency involving the protection of life or prop-
erty or any part thereof, shall have the authority to direct such
operation as necessary to extinguish or control any fire, per-
form any rescue operation, investigate the existence of sus-
pected or reported fires, gas leaks or other hazardous
conditions or situations, or take any other action necessary in
the reasonable performance of duty. In the exercise of such
power, the fire chief is authorized to prohibit any person, vehi-
cle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene and is autho-
rized to remove, or cause to be removed or kept away from the
scene, any vehicle, vessel or thing which could impede or inter-
fere with the operations of the fire department and, in the judg-
ment of the fire chief, any person not actually and usefully
employed in the extinguishing of such fire or in the preserva-
tion of property in the vicinity thereof.
104.11.1 Barricades. The fire chief or officer of the fire
department in charge at the scene of an emergency is autho-
rized to place ropes, guards, barricades or other obstructions
across any street, alley, place or private property in the vicin-
ity of such operation so as to prevent accidents or interfer-
ence with the lawful efforts of the fire department to manage
and control the situation and to handle fire apparatus.
104.11.2 Obstructing operations. No person shall obstruct
the operations of the fire department in connection with
extinguishment or control of any fire, or actions relative to
other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the
fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge of the
emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a
police officer assisting the fire department.
104.11.3 Systems and devices. No person shall render a
system or device inoperative during an emergency unless by
direction of the fire chief or fire department official in
charge of the incident.
SECTION 105
PERMITS
105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections
105.1.1 through 105.7.13.
105.1.1 Permits required. Permits required by this code
shall be obtained from the fire code official. Permit fees, if
any, shall be paid prior to issuance of the permit. Issued per-
mits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all
times and shall be readily available for inspection by the fire
code official.
105.1.2 Types of permits. There shall be two types of per-
mits as follows:
1 . Operational permit. An operational permit allows the
applicant to conduct an operation or a business for
which a permit is required by Section 105 .6 for either:
1 . 1 . A prescribed period.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
ADMINISTRATION
1.2. Until renewed or revoked.
2. Construction permit. A construction permit allows
the applicant to install or modify systems and equip-
ment for which apermit is required by Section 105.7.
105.1.3 Permits for the same location. When more than
one permit is required for the same location, the fire code
official is authorized to consolidate such permits into a sin-
gle permit provided that each provision is listed in the per-
mit.
105.2 Application. Application for a permit required by this
code shall be made to the fire code official in such form and
detail as prescribed by the fire code official. Applications for
permits shall be accompanied by such plans as prescribed by
the fire code official.
105.2.1 Refusal to issue permit. If the application for aper-
mit describes a use that does not conform to the require-
ments of this code and other pertinent laws and ordinances,
the fire code official shall not issue a permit, but shall return
the application to the applicant with the refusal to issue such
permit. Such refusal shall, when requested, be in writing
and shall contain the reasons for refusal.
105.2.2 Inspection authorized. Before a new operational
permit is approved, the fire code official is authorized to
inspect the receptacles, vehicles, buildings, devices, pre-
mises, storage spaces or areas to be used to determine com-
pliance with this code or any operational constraints
required.
105.2.3 Time limitation of application. An application for
a permit for any proposed work or operation shall be
deemed to have been abandoned six months after the date of
filing, unless such application has been diligently prose-
cuted or a permit shall have been issued; except that the fire
code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of
time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each if
there is reasonable cause.
105.2.4 Action on application. The fire code official shall
examine or cause to be examined applications for permits
and amendments thereto within a reasonable time after fil-
ing. If the application or the construction documents do not
conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the fire code
official shall reject such application in writing, stating the
reasons therefor. If the fire code official is satisfied that the
proposed work or operation conforms to the requirements
of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the
fire code official shall issue a permit therefore as soon as
practicable.
105.3 Conditions of a permit. A permit shall constitute per-
mission to maintain, store or handle materials; or to conduct
processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or prop-
erty; or to install equipment utilized in connection with such
activities; or to install or modify any fire protection system or
equipment or any other construction, equipment installation or
modification in accordance with the provisions of this code
where a permit is required by Section 1 05 .6 or 1 05 .7 . Such per-
mission shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or
set aside any of the provisions of this code or other applicable
regulations or laws of the jurisdiction.
105.3.1 Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in
effect until reissued, renewed, or revoked or for such a
period of time as specified in the permit. Construction per-
mits shall automatically become invalid unless the work
authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days
after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is
suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the
time the work is commenced. Before such work recom-
mences, a new permit shall be first obtained and the fee to
recommence work, if any, shall be one-half the amount
required for a new permit for such work, provided no
changes have been made or will be made in the original con-
struction documents for such work, and provided further
that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one
year. Permits are not transferable and any change in occu-
pancy, operation, tenancy or ownership shall require that a
new permit be issued.
105.3.2 Extensions. A permittee holding an unexpired per-
mit shall have the right to apply for an extension of the time
within which the permittee will commence work under that
permit when work is unable to be commenced within the
time required by this section for good and satisfactory rea-
sons. The fire code official is authorized to grant, in writing,
one or more extensions of the time period of a permit for
periods of not more than 90 days each. Such extensions shall
be requested by the permit holder in writing and justifiable
cause demonstrated.
105.3.3 Occupancy prohibited before approval. The
building or structure shall not be occupied prior to the fire
code official issuing a permit that indicates that applicable
provisions of this code have been met.
105.3.4 Conditional permits. Where permits are required
and upon the request of a permit applicant, the fire code offi-
cial is authorized to issue a conditional permit to occupy the
premises or portion thereof before the entire work or opera-
tions on the premises is completed, provided that such por-
tion or portions will be occupied safely prior to full
completion or installation of equipment and operations
without endangering life or public welfare. The fire code
official shall notify the permit applicant in writing of any
limitations or restrictions necessary to keep the permit area
safe. The holder of a conditional permit shall proceed only
to the point for which approval has been given, at the permit
holder's own risk and without assurance that approval for
the occupancy or the utilization of the entire premises,
equipment or operations will be granted.
105.3.5 Posting the permit. Issued permits shall be kept on
the premises designated therein at all times and shall be
readily available for inspection by the fire code official.
105.3.6 Compliance with code. The issuance or granting of
a permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an
approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this
code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits
presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provi-
sions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction
shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on con-
struction documents and other data shall not prevent the fire
code official from requiring the correction of errors in the
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
ADMINISTRATION
construction documents and other data. Any addition to or
alteration of approved construction documents shall be
approved in advance by the fire code official, as evidenced
by the issuance of a new or amended permit.
105.3.7 Information on the permit. The fire code official
shall issue all permits required by this code on an approved
form furnished for that purpose. The permit shall contain a
general description of the operation or occupancy and its
location and any other information required by the fire code
official. Issued permits shall bear the signature of the fire
code official or other approved legal authorization.
105.4 Construction documents. Construction documents
shall be in accordance with this section.
105.4.1 Submittals. Construction documents shall be sub-
mitted in one or more sets and in such form and detail as
required by the fire code official. The construction docu-
ments shall be prepared by a registered design professional
where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which
the project is to be constructed.
105.4.2 Information on construction documents. Con-
struction documents shall be drawn to scale upon suitable
material. Electronic media documents are allowed to be
submitted when approved by the fire code official. Con-
struction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate
the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and
show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this
code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations as
determined by the fire code official.
105.4.3 Applicant responsibility. It shall be the responsi-
bility of the applicant to ensure that the construction docu-
ments include all of the fire protection requirements and the
shop drawings are complete and in compliance with the
applicable codes and standards.
105.4.4 Approved documents. Construction documents
approved by the fire code official are approved with the
intent that such construction documents comply in all
respects with this code. Review and approval by the fire
code official shall not relieve the applicant of the responsi-
bility of compliance with this code.
105.4.5 Corrected documents. Where field conditions
necessitate any substantial change from the approved con-
struction documents, the fire code official shall have the
authority to require the corrected construction documents to
be submitted for approval.
105.4.6 Retention of construction documents. One set of
construction documents shall be retained by the fire code
official until final approval of the work covered therein. One
set of approved construction documents shall be returned to
the applicant, and said set shall be kept on the site of the
building or work at all times during which the work autho-
rized thereby is in progress.
105.5 Revocation. The fire code official is authorized to
revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code when it
is found by inspection or otherwise that there has been a false
statement or misrepresentation as to the material facts in the
application or construction documents on which the permit or
approval was based including, but not limited to, any one of the
following:
1 . The permit is used for a location or establishment other
than that for which it was issued.
2. The permit is used for a condition or activity other than
that listed in the permit.
3. Conditions and limitations set forth in the permit have
been violated.
4. There have been any false statements or misrepresenta-
tions as to the material fact in the application for permit
or plans submitted or a condition of the permit.
5. The permit is used by a different person or firm than the
name for which it was issued.
6. The permittee failed, refused or neglected to comply
with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the
provisions of this code within the time provided therein.
7. The permit was issued in error or in violation of an ordi-
nance, regulation or this code.
105.6 Required operational permits. The fire code official is
authorized to issue operational permits for the operations set
forth in Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.46.
105.6.1 Aerosol products. An operational permit is
required to manufacture, store or handle an aggregate quan-
tity of Level 2 or Level 3 aerosol products in excess of 500
pounds (227 kg) net weight.
105.6.2 Amusement buildings. An operational permit is
required to operate a special amusement building.
105.6.3 Aviation facilities. An operational permit is
required to use a Group H or Group S occupancy for aircraft
servicing or repair and aircraft fuel- servicing vehicles.
Additional permits required by other sections of this code
include, but are not limited to, hot work, hazardous materi-
als and flammable or combustible finishes.
105.6.4 Carnivals and fairs. An operational permit is
required to conduct a carnival or fair.
105.6.5 Cellulose nitrate film. An operational permit is
required to store, handle or use cellulose nitrate film in a
Group A occupancy.
105.6.6 Combustible dust-producing operations. An
operational permit is required to operate a grain elevator,
flour starch mill, feed mill, or a plant pulverizing aluminum,
coal, cocoa, magnesium, spices or sugar, or other operations
producing combustible dusts as defined in Chapter 2.
105.6.7 Combustible fibers. An operational permit is
required for the storage and handling of combustible fibers
in quantities greater than 100 cubic feet (2.8 m^).
Exception: A permit is not required for agricultural stor-
age.
105.6.8 Compressed gases. An operational permit is
required for the storage, use or handling at normal tempera-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
ADMINISTRATION
ture and pressure (NTP) of compressed gases in excess of
the amounts listed in Table 105.6.8.
Exception: Vehicles equipped for and using compressed
gas as a fuel for propelling the vehicle.
TABLE 105.6.8
PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR COMPRESSED GASES
TYPE OF GAS
AMOUNT
(cubic feet at NTP)
Corrosive
200
Flammable (except cryogenic fluids
and liquefied petroleum gases)
200
Highly toxic
Any Amount
Inert and simple asphyxiant
6,000
Oxidizing (including oxygen)
504
Pyrophoric
Any Amount
Toxic
Any Amount
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
105.6.9 Covered mall buildings. An operational permit is
required for:
1 . The placement of retail fixtures and displays, conces-
sion equipment, displays of highly combustible
goods and similar items in the mall.
2. The display of liquid- or gas-fired equipment in the
mall.
3 . The use of open-flame or flame-producing equipment
in the mall.
105.6.10 Cryogenic fluids. An operational permit is
required to produce, store, transport on site, use, handle or
dispense cryogenic fluids in excess of the amounts listed in
Table 105.6.10.
Exception: Permits are not required for vehicles
equipped for and using cryogenic fluids as a fuel for pro-
pelling the vehicle or for refrigerating the lading.
TABLE 105.6.10
PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
TYPE OF CRYOGENIC FLUID
INSIDE BUILDING
(gallons)
OUTSIDE BUILDING
(gallons)
Flammable
More than 1
60
Inert
60
500
Oxidizing (includes
oxygen)
10
50
Physical or health hazard
not indicated above
Any Amount
Any Amount
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
105.6.11 Cutting and welding. An operational permit is
required to conduct cutting or welding operations within the
jurisdiction.
105.6.12 Dry cleaning plants. An operational permit is
required to engage in the business of dry cleaning or to
change to a more hazardous cleaning solvent used in exist-
ing dry cleaning equipment.
105.6.13 Exhibits and trade shows. An operational permit
is required to operate exhibits and trade shows.
105.6.14 Explosives. An operational permit is required for
the manufacture, storage, handling, sale or use of any quan-
tity of explosives, explosive materials, fireworks or pyro-
technic special effects within the scope of Chapter 33.
Exception: Storage in Group R-3 occupancies of
smokeless propellant, black powder and small arms
primers for personal use, not for resale and in accordance
with Section 3306.
105.6.15 Fire hydrants and valves. An operational permit
is required to use or operate fire hydrants or valves intended
for fire suppression purposes which are installed on water
systems and accessible to a fire apparatus access road that is
open to or generally used by the public.
Exception: A permit is not required for authorized
employees of the water company that supplies the system
or the fire department to use or operate fire hydrants or
valves.
105.6.16 Flammable and combustible liquids. An opera-
tional permit is required:
1. To use or operate a pipeline for the transportation
within facilities of flammable or combustible liquids.
This requirement shall not apply to the off-site trans-
portation in pipelines regulated by the Department of
Transportation (DOTn) nor does it apply to piping
systems.
2. To store, handle or use Class I liquids in excess of 5
gallons (19 L) in a building or in excess of 10 gallons
(37.9 L) outside of a building, except that a permit is
not required for the following:
2.1. The storage or use of Class I liquids in the fuel
tank of a motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat,
mobile power plant or mobile heating plant,
unless such storage, in the opinion of the code
official, would cause an unsafe condition.
2.2. The storage or use of paints, oils, varnishes or
similar flammable mixtures when such liq-
uids are stored for maintenance, painting or
similar purposes for a period of not more than
30 days.
3 . To store, handle or use Class II or Class IIIA liquids in
excess of 25 gallons (95 L) in a building or in excess
of 60 gallons (227 L) outside a building, except for
fuel oil used in connection with oil-burning equip-
ment.
4. To remove Class I or Class II liquids from an under-
ground storage tank used for fueling motor vehicles
by any means other than the approved, stationary
on-site pumps normally used for dispensing pur-
poses.
5. To operate tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants,
terminals, wells, fuel-dispensing stations, refineries,
distilleries and similar facilities where flammable and
combustible liquids are produced, processed, trans-
ported, stored, dispensed or used.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
ADMINISTRATION
6. To place temporarily out of service (for more than 90
days) an underground, protected above-ground or
above-ground flammable or combustible liquid tank.
7. To change the type of contents stored in a flammable
or combustible liquid tank to a material which poses a
greater hazard than that for which the tank was
designed and constructed.
8. To manufacture, process, blend or refine flammable
or combustible liquids.
9. To engage in the dispensing of liquid fuels into the
fuel tanks of motor vehicles at commercial, indus-
trial, governmental or manufacturing establish-
ments.
10. To utilize a site for the dispensing of liquid fuels
from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehi-
cles at commercial, industrial, governmental or
manufacturing establishments.
105.6.17 Floor finishing. An operational permit is required
for floor finishing or surfacing operations exceeding 350
square feet (33 m^) using Class I or Class II liquids.
105.6.18 Fruit and crop ripening. An operational permit is
required to operate a fruit-, or crop-ripening facility or con-
duct a fruit-ripening process using ethylene gas.
105.6.19 Fumigation and thermal insecticidal fogging.
An operational permit is required to operate a business of
fumigation or thermal insecticidal fogging and to maintain a
room, vault or chamber in which a toxic or flammable fumi-
gant is used.
105.6.20 Hazardous materials. An operational permit is
required to store, transport on site, dispense, use or handle
hazardous materials in excess of the amounts listed in Table
105.6.20.
105.6.21 HPM facilities. An operational permit is required
to store, handle or use hazardous production materials.
105.6.22 High-piled storage. An operational permit is
required to use a building or portion thereof as a high-piled
storage area exceeding 500 square feet (46 m^).
105.6.23 Hot worli operations. An operational permit is
required for hot work including, but not limited to:
1. Public exhibitions and demonstrations where hot
work is conducted.
2. Use of portable hot work equipment inside a struc-
ture.
Exception: Work that is conducted under a con-
struction permit.
3. Fixed-site hot work equipment such as welding
booths.
4. Hot work conducted within a hazardous fire area.
5. Application of roof coverings with the use of an
open-flame device.
6. When approved, the fire code official shall issue a
permit to carry out a Hot Work Program. This pro-
gram allows approved personnel to regulate their
TABLE 105.6.20
PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
TYPE OF MATERIAL
AMOUNT
Combustible liquids
See Section 105.6.16
Corrosive materials
Gases
See Section 105.6.8
Liquids
55 gallons
Solids
1000 pounds
Explosive materials
See Section 105.6.14
Flammable materials
Gases
See Section 105.6.8
Liquids
See Section 105.6.16
Solids
100 pounds
Highly toxic materials
Gases
See Section 105.6.8
Liquids
Any Amount
Solids
Any Amount
Oxidizing materials
Gases
See Section 105.6.8
Liquids
Class 4
Any Amount
Class 3
1 gallon''
Class 2
10 gallons
Class 1
55 gallons
Solids
Class 4
Any Amount
Class 3
10 pounds
Class 2
100 pounds
Class 1
500 pounds
Organic peroxides
Liquids
Class I
Any Amount
Class II
Any Amount
Class III
I gallon
Class IV
2 gallons
Class V
No Permit Required
Solids
Class I
Any Amount
Class II
Any Amount
Class m
10 pounds
Class IV
20 pounds
Class V
No Permit Required
Pyrophoric materials
Gases
Any Amount
Liquids
Any Amount
Solids
Any Amount
Toxic materials
Gases
See Section 105.6.8
Liquids
10 gallons
Solids
100 pounds
Unstable (reactive) materials
Liquids
Class 4
Any Amount
Class 3
Any Amount
Class 2
5 gallons
Class 1
10 gallons
Solids
Class 4
Any Amount
Class 3
Any Amount
Class 2
50 pounds
Class 1
100 pounds
Water-reactive Materials
Liquids
Class 3
Any Amount
Class 2
5 gallons
Class 1
55 gallons
Solids
Class 3
Any Amount
Class 2
50 pounds
Class 1
500 pounds
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. 20 gallons when Table 2703.1.1(1) Note k applies and hazard identification signs in
accordance with Section 2703.5 are provided for quantities of 20 gallons or less.
b. 200 pounds when Table 2703. 1.1(1) Note k applies and hazard identification signs in
accordance with Section 2703.5 are provided for quantities of 200 pounds or less.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
ADMINISTRATION
facility's hot work operations. The approved person-
nel shall be trained in the fire safety aspects denoted in
this chapter and shall be responsible for issuing per-
mits requiring compliance with the requirements
found in Chapter 26. These permits shall be issued
only to their employees or hot work operations under
their supervision.
105.6.24 Industrial ovens. An operational permit is
required for operation of industrial ovens regulated by
Chapter 21.
105.6.25 Lumber yards and woodworking plants. An
operational permit is required for the storage or processing
of lumber exceeding 100,000 board feet (8,333 ft^) (236
105.6.26 Liquid- or gas-fueled vehicles or equipment in
assembly buildings. An operational permit is required to
display, operate or demonstrate liquid- or gas-fueled vehi-
cles or equipment in assembly buildings.
105.6.27 LP-gas. An operational permit is required for:
1. Storage and use of LP-gas.
Exception: A permit is not required for individual
containers with a 500-gallon (1893 L) water
capacity or less serving occupancies in Group R-3.
2. Operation of cargo tankers that transport LP-gas.
105.6.28 Magnesium. An operational permit is required to
melt, cast, heat treat or grind more than 10 pounds (4.54 kg)
of magnesium.
105.6.29 Miscellaneous combustible storage. An opera-
tional permit is required to store in any building or upon any
premises in excess of 2,500 cubic feet (71 m^) gross volume
of combustible empty packing cases, boxes, barrels or simi-
lar containers, rubber tires, rubber, cork or similar combus-
tible material.
105.6.30 Open burning. An operational permit is required
for the kindling or maintaining of an open fire or a fire on
any public street, alley, road, or other public or private
ground. Instructions and stipulations of the permit shall be
adhered to.
Exception: Recreational fires.
105.6.31 Open flames and torches. An operational permit
is required to remove paint with a torch; or to use a torch or
open-flame device in a hazardous fire area.
105.6.32 Open flames and candles. An operational permit
is required to use open flames or candles in connection with
assembly areas, dining areas of restaurants or drinking
establishments.
105.6.33 Organic coatings. An operational permit is
required for any organic-coating manufacturing operation
producing more than 1 gallon (4 L) of an organic coating in
one day.
105.6.34 Places of assembly. An operational permit is
required to operate a place of assembly.
105.6.35 Private fire hydrants. An operational permit is
required for the removal from service, use or operation of
private fire hydrants.
Exception: A permit is not required for private industry
with trained maintenance personnel, private fire brigade
or fire departments to maintain, test and use private
hydrants.
105.6.36 Pyrotechnic special effects material. An opera-
tional permit is required for use and handling of pyrotechnic
special effects material.
105.6.37 Pyroxylin plastics. An operational permit is
required for storage or handling of more than 25 pounds (11
kg) of cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastics and for the
assembly or manufacture of articles involving pyroxylin
plastics.
105.6.38 Refrigeration equipment. An operational permit
is required to operate a mechanical refrigeration unit or sys-
tem regulated by Chapter 6.
105.6.39 Repair garages and motor fuel-dispensing
facilities. An operational permit is required for operation of
repair garages and automotive, marine and fleet motor
fuel-dispensing facilities.
105.6.40 Rooftop heliports. An operational permit is
required for the operation of a rooftop heliport.
105.6.41 Spraying or dipping. An operational permit is
required to conduct a spraying or dipping operation utiliz-
ing flammable or combustible liquids or the application of
combustible powders regulated by Chapter 15.
105.6.42 Storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts. An
operational permit is required to establish, conduct or main-
tain storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts that exceeds
2,500 cubic feet (7 1 m^) of total volume of scrap tires and for
indoor storage of tires and tire byproducts.
105.6.43 Temporary membrane structures, tents and
canopies. An operational permit is required to operate an
air-supported temporary membrane structure or a tent hav-
ing an area in excess of 200 square feet (19 m^), or a canopy
in excess of 400 square feet (37 m^).
Exceptions:
1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping
purposes.
2. Fabric canopies open on all sides which comply
with all of the following:
2.1. Individual canopies having a maximum
size of 700 square feet (65 m^).
2.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies
placed side by side without a fire break
clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658
mm) shall not exceed 700 square feet (65
m^) total.
2.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658
mm) to structures and other tents shall be
provided.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
ADMINISTRATION
105.6.44 Tire-rebuilding plants. An operational permit is
required for the operation and maintenance of a tire-rebuild-
ing plant.
105.6.45 Waste handling. An operational permit is
required for the operation of wrecking yards, junk yards and
waste material-handling facilities.
105.6.46 Wood products. An operational permit is
required to store chips, hogged material, lumber or plywood
in excess of 200 cubic feet (6 m^).
105.7 Required construction permits. The fire code official
is authorized to issue construction permits for work as set forth
in Sections 105.7.1 through 105.7.13.
105.7.1 Automatic fire-extinguishing systems. A con-
struction permit is required for installation of or modifica-
tion to an automatic fire-extinguishing system.
Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not
considered a modification and does not require a permit.
105.7.2 Battery systems. A permit is required to install sta-
tionary storage battery systems having a liquid capacity of
more than 50 gallons (189 L).
105.7.3 Compressed gases. When the compressed gases in
use or storage exceed the amounts listed in Table 105.6.8, a
construction permit is required to install, repair damage to,
abandon, remove, place temporarily out of service, or close
or substantially modify a compressed gas system.
Exceptions:
1. Routine maintenance.
2. For emergency repair work performed on an emer-
gency basis, application for permit shall be made
within two working days of commencement of
work.
The permit applicant shall apply for approval to close
storage, use or handling facilities at least 30 days prior to the
termination of the storage, use or handling of compressed or
liquefied gases. Such application shall include any change
or alteration of the facility closure plan filed pursuant to
Section 2701.6.3. The 30-day period is not applicable when
approved based on special circumstances requiring such
waiver.
105.7.4 Fire alarm and detection systems and related
equipment. A construction permit is required for installa-
tion of or modification to fire alarm and detection systems
and related equipment. Maintenance performed in accor-
dance with this code is not considered a modification and
does not require a permit.
105.7.5 Fire pumps and related equipment. A construc-
tion permit is required for installation of or modification to
fire pumps and related fuel tanks, jockey pumps, control-
lers, and generators. Maintenance performed in accordance
with this code is not considered a modification and does not
require a permit.
105.7.6 Flammable and combustible liquids. A construc-
tion permit is required:
1 . To repair or modify a pipeline for the transportation
of flammable or combustible liquids.
2. To install, construct or alter tank vehicles, equipment,
tanks, plants, terminals, wells, fuel-dispensing sta-
tions, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities
where flammable and combustible liquids are pro-
duced, processed, transported, stored, dispensed or
used.
3. To install, alter, remove, abandon or otherwise dis-
pose of a flammable or combustible liquid tank.
105.7.7 Hazardous materials. A construction permit is
required to install, repair damage to, abandon, remove,
place temporarily out of service, or close or substantially
modify a storage facility or other area regulated by Chapter
27 when the hazardous materials in use or storage exceed
the amounts listed in Table 105.6.20.
Exceptions:
1 . Routine maintenance.
2. For emergency repair work performed on an emer-
gency basis, application for permit shall be made
within two working days of commencement of
work.
105.7.8 Industrial ovens. A construction permit is required
for installation of industrial ovens covered by Chapter 21.
Exceptions:
1. Routine maintenance.
2. For repair work performed on an emergency basis,
application for permit shall be made within two
working days of commencement of work.
105.7.9 LP-gas. A construction permit is required for
installation of or modification to an LP-gas system.
105.7.10 Private fire hydrants. A construction permit is
required for the installation or modification of private fire
hydrants.
105.7.11 Spraying or dipping. A construction permit is
required to install or modify a spray room, dip tank or booth.
105.7.12 Standpipe systems. A construction permit is
required for the installation, modification, or removal from
service of a standpipe system. Maintenance performed in
accordance with this code is not considered a modification
and does not require a permit.
105.7.13 Temporary membrane structures, tents and
canopies. A construction permit is required to erect an
air-supported temporary membrane structure or a tent hav-
ing an area in excess of 200 square feet (19 m^), or a canopy
in excess of 400 square feet (37 m^).
Exceptions:
1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping
purposes.
2. Funeral tents and curtains or extensions attached
thereto, when used for funeral services.
3. Fabric canopies and awnings open on all sides
which comply with all of the following:
3.1. Individual canopies shall have a maximum
size of 700 square feet (65 m^).
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
ADMINISTRATION
3.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies
placed side by side without a fire break
clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658
mm) shall not exceed 700 square feet (65
m2) total.
3.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658
mm) to structures and other tents shall be
maintained.
SECTION 106
INSPECTIONS
106.1 Inspection authority. The fire code official is autho-
rized to enter and examine any building, structure, marine ves-
sel, vehicle or premises in accordance with Section 104.3 for
the purpose of enforcing this code.
106.2 Inspections. The fire code official is authorized to con-
duct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the
extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to
approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individ-
uals. All reports of such inspections shall be prepared and sub-
mitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports
shall be certified by a responsible officer of such approved
agency or by the responsible individual. The fire code official is
authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary
to report upon unusual, detailed or complex technical issues
subject to the approval of the governing body.
106.3 Concealed work. Whenever any installation subject to
inspection prior to use is covered or concealed without having
first been inspected, the fire code official shall have the author-
ity to require that such work be exposed for inspection.
106.4 Approvals. Approval as the result of an inspection shall
not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provi-
sions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction.
Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel
provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction
shall not be valid.
SECTION 107
MAINTENANCE
107.1 Maintenance of safeguards. Whenever or wherever
any device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level
of protection, or any other feature is required for compliance
with the provisions of this code, or otherwise installed, such
device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of
protection, or other feature shall thereafter be continuously
maintained in accordance with this code and applicable refer-
enced standards.
107.2 Testing and operation. Equipment requiring periodic
testing or operation to ensure maintenance shall be tested or
operated as specified in this code.
107.2.1 Test and inspection records. Required test and
inspection records shall be available to the fire code official
at all times or such records as the fire code official desig-
nates shall be filed with the fire code official.
107.2.2 Reinspection and testing. Where any work or
installation does not pass an initial test or inspection, the
necessary corrections shall be made so as to achieve compli-
ance with this code. The work or installation shall then be
resubmitted to the fire code official for inspection and test-
ing.
107.3 Supervision. Maintenance and testing shall be under the
supervision of a responsible person who shall ensure that such
maintenance and testing are conducted at specified intervals in
accordance with this code.
107.4 Rendering equipment inoperable. Portable or fixed
fire-extinguishing systems or devices and fire-warning sys-
tems shall not be rendered inoperative or inaccessible except as
necessary during emergencies, maintenance, repairs, alter-
ations, drills or prescribed testing.
107.5 Owner/occupant responsibility. Correction and abate-
ment of violations of this code shall be the responsibility of the
owner. If an occupant creates, or allows to be created, hazard-
ous conditions in violation of this code, the occupant shall be
held responsible for the abatement of such hazardous condi-
tions.
107.6 Overcrowding. Overcrowding or admittance of any per-
son beyond the approved capacity of a building or a portion
thereof shall not be allowed. The fire code official, upon find-
ing any overcrowding conditions or obstructions in aisles, pas-
sageways or other means of egress, or upon finding any
condition which constitutes a life safety hazard, shall be autho-
rized to cause the event to be stopped until such condition or
obstruction is corrected.
SECTION 108
BOARD OF APPEALS
108.1 Board of appeals established. In order to hear and
decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by
the fire code official relative to the application and interpreta-
tion of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of
appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the govern-
ing body and shall hold office at its pleasure. The fire code offi-
cial shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall have
no vote on any matter before the board. The board shall adopt
rules of procedure for conducting its business, and shall render
all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a
duplicate copy to the fire code official.
108.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal
shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules
legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted,
the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or an equivalent
method of protection or safety is proposed. The board shall
have no authority to waive requirements of this code.
108.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of
members who are qualified by experience and training to pass
on matters pertaining to hazards of fire, explosions, hazardous
conditions or fire protection systems and are not employees of
the jurisdiction.
10
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 109
VIOLATIONS
109.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm or
corporation to erect, construct, alter, repair, remove, demolish
or utilize a building, occupancy, premises or system regulated
by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in vio-
lation of any of the provisions of this code.
109.2 Notice of violation. When the fire code official finds a
building, premises, vehicle, storage facility or outdoor area that
is in violation of this code, the fire code official is authorized to
prepare a written notice of violation describing the conditions
deemed unsafe and, when compliance is not immediate, speci-
fying a time for reinspection.
109.2.1 Service. A notice of violation issued pursuant to
this code shall be served upon the owner, operator, occu-
pant, or other person responsible for the condition or viola-
tion, either by personal service, mail, or by delivering the
same to, and leaving it with, some person of responsibility
upon the premises. For unattended or abandoned locations,
a copy of such notice of violation shall be posted on the pre-
mises in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to such
premises and the notice of violation shall be mailed by certi-
fied mail with return receipt requested or a certificate of
mailing, to the last known address of the owner, occupant or
both.
109.2.2 Compliance with orders and notices. A notice of
violation issued or served as provided by this code shall be
complied with by the owner, operator, occupant or other
person responsible for the condition or violation to which
the notice of violation pertains.
109.2.3 Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation
is not complied with promptly, the fire code official is autho-
rized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to insti-
tute the appropriate legal proceedings at law or in equity to
restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require
removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the
structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the
order or direction made pursuant hereto.
109.2.4 Unauthorized tampering. Signs, tags or seals
posted or affixed by the fire code official shall not be muti-
lated, destroyed or tampered with or removed without
authorization from the fire code official.
109.3 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provi-
sion of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the require-
ments thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work
in violation of the approved construction documents or direc-
tive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used
under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [SPECIFY
OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than [amount] dol-
lars or by imprisonment not exceeding [number of DAYS], or
both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation
continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a
separate offense.
109.3.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposi-
tion of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is
authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlaw-
ful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or
to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to
stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a
structure on or about any premises.
SECTION 110
UNSAFE BUILDINGS
110.1 General. If during the inspection of a premises, a build-
ing or structure or any building system, in whole or in part, con-
stitutes a clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or
health, the fire code official shall issue such notice or orders to
remove or remedy the conditions as shall be deemed necessary
in accordance with this section and shall refer the building to
the building department for any repairs, alterations, remodel-
ing, removing or demolition required.
110.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equip-
ment that are or hereafter become unsafe or deficient
because of inadequate means of egress or which constitute a
fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the
public welfare, or which involve illegal or improper occu-
pancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an
unsafe condition. A vacant structure which is not secured
against unauthorized entry as required by Section 311 shall
be deemed unsafe.
110.1.2 Structural hazards. When an apparent structural
hazard is caused by the faulty installation, operation or mal-
function of any of the items or devices governed by this
code, the fire code official shall immediately notify the
building code official in accordance with Section 110.1.
110.2 Evacuation. The fire code official or the fire department
official in charge of an incident shall be authorized to order the
immediate evacuation of any occupied building deemed unsafe
when such building has hazardous conditions that present
imminent danger to building occupants. Persons so notified
shall immediately leave the structure or premises and shall not
enter or re-enter until authorized to do so by the fire code offi-
cial or the fire department official in charge of the incident.
110.3 Summary abatement. Where conditions exist that are
deemed hazardous to life and property, the fire code official or
fire department official in charge of the incident is authorized
to abate summarily such hazardous conditions that are in viola-
tion of this code.
110.4 Abatement. The owner, operator, or occupant of a build-
ing or premises deemed unsafe by the fire code official shall
abate or cause to be abated or corrected such unsafe conditions
either by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or other approved
corrective action.
SECTION 111
STOP WORK ORDER
111.1 Order. Whenever the fire code official finds any work
regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to
the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner,
the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
111.2 Issuance. A stop work order shall be in writing and shall
be given to the owner of the property, or to the owner's agent, or
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
11
ADMINISTRATION
to the person doing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work
order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work
order shall state the reason for the order, and the conditions
under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
111.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code
official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to
stopping the work.
111.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any
work after having been served with a stop work order, except
such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a vio-
lation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less
than [AMOUNT] dollars or more than [AMOUNT] dollars.
12
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 201
GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following
words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the
meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense
include the future; words stated in the masculine gender
include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes
the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not
defined in this code and are defined in the International Build-
ing Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International
Mechanical Code or International Plumbing Code, such terms
shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined
through the methods authorized by this section, such terms
shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context
implies. Webster's Third New International Dictionary of the
English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as provid-
ing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
[B] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. See Section
1002.1.
AEROSOL. See Section 2802.1.
Level 1 aerosol products. See Section 2802.1.
Level 2 aerosol products. See Section 2802.1.
Level 3 aerosol products. See Section 2802.1.
AEROSOL CONTAINER. See Section 2802.1.
AEROSOL WAREHOUSE. See Section 2802.1.
AGENT. A person who shall have charge, care or control of
any structure as owner, or agent of the owner, or as executor,
executrix, administrator, administratrix, trustee or guardian of
the estate of the owner. Any such person representing the actual
owner shall be bound to comply with the provisions of this
code to the same extent as if that person was the owner.
AIR-SUPPORTED STRUCTURE. See Section 2402.1.
AIRCRAFT OPERATION AREA (AOA). See Section
1102.1.
AIRPORT. See Section 1102.1.
AISLE. See Section 1002.
[B] AISLE ACCESSWAY. See Section 1002.1.
ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. See Section
902.1.
ALARM SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE. See Section 902.1.
ALCOHOL-BASED HAND RUB. See Section 3402.1.
[EB] ALTERATION. Any construction or renovation to an
existing structure other than a repair or addition.
[B] ALTERNATING TREAD DEVICE. See Section 1002. 1 .
AMMONIUM NITRATE. See Section 3302.1.
ANNUNCIATOR. See Section 902.1.
APPROVED. Acceptable to the fire code official.
[B] AREA OF REFUGE. See Section 1002.1.
ARRAY. See Section 2302.1.
ARRAY, CLOSED. See Section 2302.1.
AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. See
Section 902.1.
AUTOMATIC. See Section 902.1.
AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. See
Section 902.1.
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
AUTOMOTIVE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACIL-
ITY. See Section 2202.1.
AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL. See Section 902. 1 .
BARRICADE. See Section 3302.1.
Artificial barricade. See Section 3302.1.
Natural barricade. See Section 3302.1.
BARRICADED. See Section 3302.1.
BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY LEAD ACID. See
Section 602.1.
BATTERY TYPES. See Section 602.1.
Nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery. See Section 602.1.
Nonrecombmant battery. See Section 602.1.
Recombinant battery. See Section 602.1.
Stationary storage battery. See Section 602.1.
Valve-regulated lead-acid battery. See Section 602.1.
Vented (Flooded) lead-acid battery. See Section 602.1.
BIN BOX. See Section 2302.1.
BLAST AREA. See Section 3302.1.
BLAST SITE. See Section 3302.1.
BLASTER. See Section 3302.1.
BLASTING AGENT. See Section 3302.1.
[B] BLEACHERS. See Section 1002.1.
BOILING POINT. See Section 2702.1.
BONFIRE. See Section 302.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
13
DEFINITIONS
BRITISH THERMAL UNIT (BTU). The heat necessary to
raise the temperature of 1 pound (0.454 kg) of water by 1°F
(0.5565°C).
BULK OXYGEN SYSTEM. See Section 4002.1.
BULK PLANT OR TERMINAL. See Section 3402.1.
BULK TRANSFER. See Section 3402.1.
BULLET RESISTANT. See Section 3302.1.
CANOPY. See Section 2402.1.
CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. See
Section 902.1.
CARTON. A cardboard or fiberboard box enclosing a product.
CEILING LIMIT. See Section 2702.1.
[EB] CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. A change in the purpose
or level of activity within a building that involves a change in
application of the requirements of this code.
CHEMICAL. See Section 2702.1.
CHEMICAL NAME. See Section 2702.1.
CLEAN AGENT. See Section 902.1.
CLOSED CONTAINER. See Section 2702.1.
CLOSED SYSTEM. The use of a sohd or Hquid hazardous
material involving a closed vessel or system that remains
closed during normal operations where vapors emitted by the
product are not liberated outside of the vessel or system and the
product is not exposed to the atmosphere during normal opera-
tions; and all uses of compressed gases. Examples of closed
systems for solids and liquids include product conveyed
through a piping system into a closed vessel, system or piece of
equipment.
COLD DECK. See Section 1902.1.
COMBUSTIBLE DUST. See Section 1302.1.
COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS. See Section 2902.1.
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID. See Section 3402.1.
Class IL See Section 3402.1.
Class IIIA. See Section 3402.1.
Class IIIB. See Section 3402.1.
[M] COMMERCIAL COOKING APPLIANCES. See Sec-
tion 602.1.
COMMODITY. See Section 2302.1.
[B] COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL. See Section
1002.1.
COMPRESSED GAS. See Section 3002.1.
COMPRESSED GAS CONTAINER. See Section 3002.1.
COMPRESSED GAS SYSTEM. See Section 3002.1.
CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. See Section
902.1.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. The written, graphic
and pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing
the design, location and physical characteristics of the ele-
ments of the project necessary for obtaining a permit.
CONTAINER. See Section 2702.1.
CONTAINMENT SYSTEM. See Section 3702.1.
CONTAINMENT VESSEL. See Section 3702.1.
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM. See Section
1802.1.
CONTROL AREA. See Section 2702.1.
[B] CORRIDOR. See Section 1002.1.
COTTON. See Section 2902.1.
Baled cotton. See Section 2902.1.
Baled cotton, densely packed. See Section 2902. 1 .
Seed cotton. See Section 2902.1.
CORROSIVE. See Section 3102.1.
CRYOGENIC CONTAINER. See Section 3202.1.
CRYOGENIC FLUID. See Section 3202.1.
CRYOGENIC VESSEL. See Section 3202.1.
CYLINDER. See Section 2702.1.
DAY BOX. See Section 2702.1.
DECORATIVE MATERIALS. All materials applied over
the building interior finish for decorative, acoustical or other
effect (such as curtains, draperies, fabrics, streamers and sur-
face coverings) and all other materials utilized for decorative
effect (such as batting, cloth, cotton, hay, stalks, straw, vines,
leaves, trees, moss and similar items), including foam plastics
and materials containing foam plastics. Decorative materials
do not include floor coverings, ordinary window shades, inte-
rior finish and materials 0.025 inch (0.64 mm) or less in thick-
ness applied directly to and adhering tightly to a substrate.
DEFLAGRATION. See Section 2702.1.
DELUGE SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
DESIGN PRESSURE. See Section 2702.1.
DETACHED BUILDING. See Section 2702.1.
DETEARING. See Section 1502.1.
DETECTOR, HEAT. See Section 902.1.
DETONATING CORD. See Section 3302.1.
DETONATION. See Section 3302.1.
DETONATOR. See Section 3302.1.
DIP TANK. See Section 1502.1.
DISCHARGE SITE. See Section 3302.1.
DISPENSING. See Section 2702.1.
DISPENSING DEVICE, OVERHEAD TYPE. See Section
2202.1.
DISPLAY SITE. See Section 3302.1.
[B] DOOR, BALANCED. See Section 1002.1.
DRAFT CURTAIN. See Section 2302.1.
DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. See Sec-
tion 902.1.
DRY CLEANING. See Section 1202.1.
14
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
DEFINITIONS
DRY CLEANING PLANT. See Section 1202.1.
DRY CLEANING ROOM. See Sectionl202.1.
DRY CLEANING SYSTEM. See Section 1202.1.
[B] DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete,
independent living facilities for one or more persons, including
permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
sanitation.
EARLY SUPPRESSION FAST-RESPONSE (ESFR)
SPRINKLER. See Section 2302.1.
[B] EGRESS COURT. See Section 1002.1.
ELECTROSTATIC FLUIDIZED BED. See Section 1502. 1 .
EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
EMERGENCY CONTROL STATION. See Section 1 802. 1 .
[B] EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING.
See Section 1002.1.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION DRILL. See Section 402. 1 .
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE. A valve designed to
shut off the flow of gases or liquids.
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE, AUTOMATIC. A
fail-safe automatic-closing valve designed to shut off the flow
of gases or liquids initiated by a control system that is activated
by automatic means.
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE, MANUAL. A manu-
ally operated valve designed to shut off the flow of gases or liq-
uids.
EMERGENCY VOICE/ALARM COMMUNICATIONS.
See Section 902.1.
EXCESS FLOW CONTROL. See Section 2702.1.
EXCESS FLOW VALVE. See Section 3702.1.
EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE. See Section 2702.1.
EXISTING. Buildings, facihties or conditions which are
already in existence, constructed or officially authorized prior
to the adoption of this code.
[B] EXIT. See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT ACCESS. See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT DISCHARGE. See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OE See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT ENCLOSURE. See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT, HORIZONTAL. See Section 1002.1.
[B] EXIT PASSAGEWAY. See Section 1002.1.
EXPANDED PLASTIC. See Section 2302.1.
EXPLOSION. See Section 2702.1.
EXPLOSIVE. See Section 3302.1.
High Explosive. See Section 3302.1.
Low Explosive. See Section 3302.1.
Mass-detonating Explosives. See Section 3302.1.
UN/DOTn Class 1 Explosives. See Section 3302.1.
Division 1.1. See Section 3302.1.
Division 1.2. See Section 3302.1.
Division 1.3. See Section 3302.1.
Division 1.4. See Section 3302. 1 .
Division 1.5. See Section 3302. 1 .
Division 1.6. See Section 3302.1.
EXPLOSIVE MATERIAL. See Section 3302.1.
EXTRA-HIGH-RACK COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. See
Section 2302.1.
FABRICATION AREA. See Section 1802.1.
FACILITY. A building or use in a fixed location including
exterior storage areas for flammable and combustible sub-
stances and hazardous materials, piers, wharves, tank farms
and similar uses. This term includes recreational vehicles,
mobile home and manufactured housing parks, sales and stor-
age lots.
FAIL-SAFE. A design condition incorporating a feature for
automatically counteracting the effect of an anticipated possi-
ble source of failure; also, a design condition eliminating or
mitigating a hazardous condition by compensating automati-
cally for a failure or malfunction.
FALLOUT AREA. See Section 3302.1.
FALSE ALARM. The willful and knowing initiation or trans-
mission of a signal, message or other notification of an event of
fire when no such danger exists.
FINES. See Section 1902.1.
FIRE ALARM. The giving, signaling or transmission to any
public fire station, or company or to any officer or employee
thereof, whether by telephone, spoken word or otherwise, of
information to the effect that there is a fire at or near the place
indicated by the person giving, signaling, or transmitting such
information.
FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL. See Section 902.1.
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT. See Section 902.1.
FIRE ALARM SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD. See Section 502.1.
FIRE AREA. See Section 902.1.
FIRE CHIEF. The chief officer of the fire department serving
the jurisdiction, or a duly authorized representative.
FIRE CODE OFFICIAL. The fire chief or other designated
authority charged with the administration and enforcement of
the code, or a duly authorized representative.
FIRE COMMAND CENTER. See Section 502.1.
FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY. See Section 502.1.
FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. See Section 902.1.
[B] FIRE DOOR ASSEMBLY. Any combination of a fire
door, frame, hardware, and other accessories that together pro-
vide a specific degree of fire protection to the opening.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
15
DEFINITIONS
[B] FIRE EXIT HARDWARE. See Section 1002.1.
FIRE LANE. See Section 502.1.
[B] FIRE PARTITION. A vertical assembly of materials
designed to restrict the spread of fire in which openings are pro-
tected.
FIRE POINT. See Section 3402. 1 .
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS. See Section 902.1.
FIRE WATCH. A temporary measure intended to ensure con-
tinuous and systematic surveillance of a building or portion
thereof by one or more qualified individuals for the purposes of
identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs
of unwanted fire, raising an alarm of fire and notifying the fire
department.
FIREWORKS. See Section 3302.1.
Fireworks, 1.4G. See Section 3302.1.
Fireworks, 1.3G. See Section 3302.1.
FIREWORKS DISPLAY. See Section 3302.1.
FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUID. See Section 3202. 1 .
FLAMMABLE FINISHES. See Section 1502.1.
FLAMMABLE GAS. See Section 3502.1.
FLAMMABLE LIQUEFIED GAS. See Section 3502.1.
FLAMMABLE LIQUID. See Section 3402.1.
Class lA. See Section 3402.1.
Class IB. See Section 3402.1.
Class IC. See Section 3402.1.
FLAMMABLE MATERIAL. A material capable of being
readily ignited from common sources of heat or at a tempera-
ture of 600°F (316°C) or less.
FLAMMABLE SOLID. See Section 3602.1.
FLAMMABLE VAPOR AREA. See Section 1502.1.
FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES. See Section 2702. 1 .
FLASH POINT. See Section 3402.1.
FLEET VEHICLE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY. See Section 2202.1.
[B] FLOOR AREA, GROSS. See Section 1002.1.
[B] FLOOR AREA, NET. See Section 1002.1.
FLUIDIZED BED. See Section 1502.1.
FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
[B] FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC SEATING. See Sec-
tion 1002.1.
FUEL LIMIT SWITCH. See Section 3402.1.
FUMIGANT. See Section 1702.1.
FUMIGATION. See Section 1702.1.
FURNACE CLASS A. See Section 2102.1.
FURNACE CLASS B. See Section 2102.1.
FURNACE CLASS C. See Section 2102.1.
FURNACE CLASS D. See Section 2102.1.
GAS CABINET. See Section 2702.1.
GAS ROOM. See Section 2702.1.
[B] GRANDSTAND. See Section 1002.1.
[B] GUARD. See Section 1002.1.
HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. See Sec-
tion 902.1.
HANDLING. See Section 2702.1.
[B] HANDRAIL. See Section 1002.1.
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL. See Section 2702.1.
HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAL (HPM). See
Section 1802.1.
HEALTH HAZARD. See Section 2702.1.
HELIPORT. See Section 1102.1.
HELISTOR See Section 1102.1.
HI-BOY. See Section 302.1.
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. See Section
2302.1.
HIGH-PILED STORAGE AREA. See Section 2302.1.
HIGHLY TOXIC. See Section 3702.1.
HIGHLY VOLATILE LIQUID. A liquefied compressed gas
with a boiling point of less than 68°F (20°C).
HIGHWAY. See Section 3302.1.
HOGGED MATERIALS. See Section 1902.1.
[M] HOOD. See Section 602.1.
Type L See Section 602.1.
HOT WORK. See Section 2602.1.
HOT WORK AREA. See Section 2602.1.
HOT WORK EQUIPMENT. See Section 2602.1.
HOT WORK PERMITS. See Section 2602.1.
HOT WORK PROGRAM. See Section 2602.1.
HPM FLAMMABLE LIQUID. See Section 1802.1.
HPM ROOM. See Section 1802.1.
IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND HEALTH
(IDLH). See Section 2702.1.
IMPAIRMENT COORDINATOR. See Section 902.1.
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS. See Section 2702.1.
INHABITED BUILDING. See Section 3302.1.
INITLVTING DEVICE. See Section 902.1.
IRRITANT. A chemical which is not corrosive, but which
causes a reversible inflammatory effect on living tissue by
chemical action at the site of contact. A chemical is a skin irri-
tant if, when tested on the intact skin of albino rabbits by the
methods of CPSC 16CFR Part 1500.41 for an exposure of four
or more hours or by other appropriate techniques, it results in
16
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
DEFINITIONS
an empirical score of 5 or more. A chemical is classified as an
eye irritant if so determined under the procedure listed in CPSC
16CFR Part 1500.42 or other approved techniques.
KEY BOX. See Section 502.1.
LABELED. Equipment or material to which has been attached
a label, symbol or other identifying mark of a nationally recog-
nized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organiza-
tion concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic
inspection of production of labeled equipment or materials,
and by whose labeling is indicated compliance with nationally
recognized standards or tests to determine suitable usage in a
specified manner.
LIMITED SPRAYING SPACE. See Section 1502.1.
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG). See Section 2202.1.
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LP-gas). See Section
3802.1.
LIQUID. See Section 2702.1.
LIQUID STORAGE ROOM. See Section 3402.1.
I LIQUID STORAGE WAREHOUSE. See Section 3402.1.
LISTED. Equipment or materials included on a list published
by an approved testing laboratory, inspection agency or other
organization concerned with current product evaluation that
maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equip-
ment or materials, and whose listing states that equipment or
materials comply with approved nationally recognized stan-
dards and have been tested or evaluated and found suitable for
use in a specified manner.
LONGITUDINAL FLUE SPACE. See Section 2302.1.
LOW-PRESSURE TANK. See Section 3202.1.
LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (LEL). See Section 2702.1.
LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL). See Section
2702.1.
MAGAZINE. See Section 3302.1.
Indoor. See Section 3302.1.
lype 1. See Section 3302. 1 .
Type 2. See Section 3302.1.
Type 3. See Section 3302.1.
Type 4. See Section 3302.1.
Type 5. See Section 3302.1.
MAGNESIUM. See Section 3602.1.
MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX. See Section 902.1.
MANUAL STOCKING METHODS. See Section 2302.1.
MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITY. See
Section 2202.1.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET (MSDS). See Section
2702.1.
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CON-
TROL AREA. See Section 2702.1.
[B] MEANS OF EGRESS. See Section 1002.1.
MECHANICAL STOCKING METHODS. See Section
2302.1.
MEMBRANE STRUCTURE. See Section 2402.1.
[B] MERCHANDISE PAD. See Section 1002.
MOBILE FUELING. See Section 3402.1.
MORTAR. See Section 3302.1.
MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE. See Section
902.1.
MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. See Section
902.1.
NESTING. See Section 3002.1.
NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT (net weight). See Section
3302.1.
NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE (NTP).
See Section 2702.1.
[B] NOSING. See Section 1002.1.
NUISANCE ALARM. See Section 902.1.
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION. For the purposes of this
code, certain occupancies are defined as follows:
[B] Assembly Group A. Assembly Group A occupancy
includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or
a portion thereof, for the gathering together of persons for
purposes such as civic, social or religious functions; recre-
ation, food or drink consumption; or awaiting transporta-
tion.
Exceptions:
1. A building used for assembly purposes with an
occupant load of less than 50 persons shall be clas-
sified as a Group B occupancy.
2. A room or space used for assembly purposes with
an occupant load of less than 50 persons and acces-
sory to another occupancy shall be classified as a
Group B occupancy or classified as part of that
occupancy.
3 . A room or space used for assembly purposes that is
less than 750 square feet (70 m^) in area and is
accessory to another occupancy shall be classified
as a Group B occupancy or classified as part of that
occupancy.
Assembly occupancies shall include the following:
A-1 Assembly uses, usually with fixed seating, intended
for the production and viewing of performing arts or
motion pictures including but not limited to:
Motion picture theaters
Symphony and concert halls
Televison and radio studios admitting an audience
Theaters
A-2 Assembly uses intended for food and/or drink con-
sumption including, but not limited to:
Banquet halls
Night clubs
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
17
DEFINITIONS
Restaurants
Taverns and bars
A-3 Assembly uses intended for worship, recreation or
amusement and other assembly uses not classified else-
where in Group A, including, but not limited to:
Amusement arcades
Art galleries
Bowhng alleys
Community halls
Courtrooms
Dance halls (not including food or drink
consumption)
Exhibition halls
Funeral parlors
Gynmasiums (without spectator seating)
Indoor swimming pools (without spectator seating)
Indoor tennis courts (without spectator seating)
Lecture halls
Libraries
Museums
Places of religious worship
Pool and billiard parlors
Waiting areas in transportation terminals
A-4 Assembly uses intended for viewing of indoor sport-
ing events and activities with spectator seating including,
but not limited to:
Arenas
Skating rinks
Swimming pools
Tennis courts
A-5 Assembly uses intended for participation in or view-
ing outdoor activities including, but not limited to:
Amusement park structures
Bleachers
Grandstands
Stadiums
[B] Business Group B. Business Group B occupancy
includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or
a portion thereof, for office, professional or service-type
transactions, including storage of records and accounts.
Business occupancies shall include, but not be limited to,
the following:
Airport traffic control towers
Animal hospitals, kennels and pounds
Banks
Barber and beauty shops
Car wash
Civic administration
Clinic — outpatient
Dry cleaning and laundries; pick-up and delivery sta-
tions and self-service
Educational occupancies for students above the 12th
grade
Electronic data processing
Laboratories; testing and research
Motor vehicle showrooms
Post offices
Print shops
Professional services (architects, attorneys, dentists,
physicians, engineers, etc.)
Radio and television stations
Telephone exchanges
Training and skill development not within a school or
academic program
[B] Educational Group E. Educational Group E occu-
pancy includes, among others, the use of a building or struc-
ture, or a portion thereof, by six or more persons at any one
time for educational purposes through the 12th grade. Reli-
gious educational rooms and religious auditoriums, which
are accessory to places of religious worship in accordance
with Section 508.3.1 of the International Building Code and
have occupant loads of less than 100, shall be classified as
Group A-3 occupancies.
Day care. The use of a building or structure, or portion
thereof, for educational, supervision or personal care
services for more than five children older than 2V2 years
of age shall be classified as an E occupancy.
[B] Factory Industrial Group F. Factory Industrial Group
F occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or
structure, or a portion thereof, for assembling, disassem-
bling, fabricating, finishing, manufacturing, packaging,
repair or processing operations that are not classified as a
Group H high-hazard or Group S storage occupancy.
Factory Industrial F-1 Moderate-hazard Occupancy.
Factory Industrial uses which are not classified as Fac-
tory Industrial Group F-2 shall be classified as F-1 Mod-
erate Hazard and shall include, but not be limited to, the
following:
Aircraft
Appliances
Athletic equipment
Automobiles and other motor vehicles
Bakeries
Beverages; over 12 percent in alcohol content
Bicycles
Boats
Brooms or brushes
Business machines
Cameras and photo equipment
Canvas and similar fabric
Carpet and rugs (includes cleaning)
Disinfectants
Dry cleaning and dyeing
Electric generation plants
Electronics
Engines (including rebuilding)
Food processing
Furniture
Hemp products
Jute products
Laundries
Leather products
Machinery
Metals
Millwork (sash and doors)
18
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
DEFINITIONS
Motion picture and television filming (without
spectators)
Musical instruments
Optical goods
Paper mills or products
Photographic film
Plastic products
Printing or publishing
Recreational vehicles
Refuse incineration
Shoes
Soaps and detergents
Textiles
Tobacco
Trailers
Upholstering
Wood; distillation
Woodworking (cabinet)
[B] Factory Industrial F-2 Low-hazard Occu-
pancy. Factory industrial uses involving the fabrica-
tion or manufacturing of noncombustible materials
which, during finishing, packaging or processing do
not involve a significant fire hazard, shall be classified
as Group F-2 occupancies and shall include, but not
be limited to, the following:
Beverages; up to and including 12 percent alcohol
content
Brick and masonry
Ceramic products
Foundries
Glass products
Gypsum
Ice
Metal products (fabrication and assembly)
High-hazard Group H. High-hazard Group H occupancy
includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or
a portion thereof, that involves the manufacturing, process-
ing, generation or storage of materials that constitute a
physical or health hazard in quantities in excess of quanti-
ties allowed in control areas constructed and located as
required in Section 2703.8.3. Hazardous uses are classified
in Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 and shall be in accor-
dance with this code and the requirements of Section 415 of
the International Building Code.
Exceptions: The following shall not be classified in
Group H, but shall be classified in the occupancy that
they most nearly resemble:
1. Buildings and structures that contain not more
than the maximum allowable quantities per con-
trol area of hazardous materials as shown in
Tables 2703.1.1(1) and 2703.1.1(2), provided
that such buildings are maintained in accordance
with this code.
2. Buildings utilizing control areas in accordance
with Section 2703.8.3 that contain not more than
the maximum allowable quantities per control
area of hazardous materials as shown in Tables
2703.1.1(1) and 2703.1.1(2).
3. Buildings and structures occupied for the appli-
cation of flanmiable finishes, provided that such
buildings or areas conform to the requirements of
Section 416 of the International Building Code
and Chapter 15 of this code.
4. Wholesale and retail sales and storage of flam-
mable and combustible liquids in mercantile
occupancies conforming to Chapter 34.
5. Closed piping systems containing flammable or
combustible liquids or gases utilized for the oper-
ation of machinery or equipment.
6. Cleaning establishments that utilize combustible
liquid solvents having a flash point of 140°F
(60°C) or higher in closed systems employing
equipment listed by an approved testing agency,
provided that this occupancy is separated from
all other areas of the building by 1 -hour fire barri-
ers constructed in accordance with Section 706
of the International Building Code or 1 -hour hor-
izontal assemblies constructed in accordance
with Section 711 of the International Building
Code, or both.
7. Cleaning establishments that utilize a liquid sol-
vent having a flash point at or above 200°F
(93°C).
8. Liquor stores and distributors without bulk stor-
age.
9. Refrigeration systems.
1 0. The storage or utilization of materials for agricul-
tural purposes on the premises.
11. Stationary batteries utilized for facility emer-
gency power, uninterrupted power supply or
telecommunication facilities, provided that the
batteries are provided with safety venting caps
and ventilation is provided in accordance with
the International Mechanical Code.
12. Corrosives shall not include personal or house-
hold products in their original packaging used in
retail display or commonly used building materi-
als.
13. Buildings and structures occupied for aerosol
storage shall be classified as Group S- 1 , provided
that such buildings conform to the requirements
of Chapter 28.
14. Display and storage of nonflammable solid and
nonflanraiable or noncombustible liquid hazard-
ous materials in quantities not exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area in
Group M or S occupancies complying with Sec-
tion 2703.8.3.5.
15. The storage of black powder, smokeless propel-
lant and small arms primers in Groups M and R-3
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
19
DERNITIONS
and special industrial explosive devices in
Groups B, F, M and S, provided such storage
conforms to the quantity limits and requirements
of this code.
High-hazard Group H-1. Buildings and structures con-
taining materials that pose a detonation hazard, shall be
classified as Group H-1 . Such materials shall include, but
not be limited to, the following:
Explosives:
Division 1.1
Division 1.2
Division 1.3
Exception: Materials that are used and main-
tained in a form where either confinement or
configuration will not elevate the hazard from a
mass fire to mass explosion hazard shall be
allowed in Group H-2 occupancies.
Division 1.4
Exception: Articles, including articles pack-
aged for shipment, that are not regulated as an
explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco
and Firearms regulations, or unpackaged arti-
cles used in process operations that do not prop-
agate a detonation or deflagration between
articles shall be allowed in Group H-3 occupan-
cies.
Division 1.5
Division 1.6
Organic peroxides, unclassified detonable
Oxidizers, Class 4
Unstable (reactive) materials. Class 3 detonable, and
Class 4
Detonable pyrophoric materials
High-hazard Group H-2. Buildings and structures con-
taining materials that pose a deflagration hazard or a haz-
ard from accelerated burning, shall be classified as
Group H-2. Such materials shall include, but not be lim-
ited to, the following:
Class I, or II or IIIA flammable or combustible liq-
uids which are used or stored in normally open con-
tainers or systems, or in closed containers or
systems pressurized at more than 15 pounds per
square inch (103.4 kPa) gauge
Combustible dusts
Cryogenic fluids, flammable
Flammable gases
Organic peroxides. Class I
Oxidizers, Class 3, that are used or stored in normally
open containers or systems, or in closed containers
or systems pressurized at more than 15 pounds per
square inch (103.4 kPa) gauge
Pyrophoric liquids, solids and gases, nondetonable
Unstable (reactive) materials. Class 3, nondetonable
Water-reactive materials. Class 3
High-hazard Group H-3. Buildings and structures con-
taining materials that readily support combustion or that
pose a physical hazard shall be classified as Group H-3.
Such materials shall include, but not be limited to, the
following:
Class I, II or IIIA flammable or combustible liquids
that are used or stored in normally closed
containers or systems pressurized at 15 pounds per
square inch gauge (103.4 kPa) or less
Combustible fibers, other than densely packed baled
cotton
Consumer fireworks, 1.4G (Class C, Common)
Cryogenic fluids, oxidizing
Flammable solids
Organic peroxides. Class II and III
Oxidizers, Class 2
Oxidizers, Class 3, that are used or stored in normally
closed containers or systems pressurized at 15
pounds per square inch gauge (103 kPa) or less.
Oxidizing gases
Unstable (reactive) materials. Class 2
Water-reactive materials. Class 2
High-hazard Group H-4. Buildings and structures
which contain materials that are health hazards shall be
classified as Group H-4. Such materials shall include, but
not be limited to, the following:
Corrosives
Highly toxic materials
Toxic materials
High-hazard Group H-5. Semiconductor fabrication
facilities and comparable research and development
areas in which hazardous production materials (HPM)
are used and the aggregate quantity of materials is in
excess of those listed in Tables 2703.1.1(1) and
2703 . 1 . 1 (2) shall be classified as Group H-5 . Such facih-
ties and areas shall be designed and constructed in accor-
dance with Section 415.8 of the International Building
Code.
[B] Institutional Group I. Institutional Group I occupancy
includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or
a portion thereof, in which people, cared for or living in a
supervised environment and having physical limitations
because of health or age, are harbored for medical treatment
or other care or treatment, or in which people are detained
for penal or correctional purposes or in which the liberty of
the occupants is restricted. Institutional occupancies shall
be classified as Group I-l, 1-2, 1-3 or 1-4.
Group I-l. This occupancy shall include buildings,
structures or parts thereof housing more than 16 persons,
on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability
or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environ-
ment that provides personal care services. The occupants
are capable of responding to an emergency situation
without physical assistance from staff. This group shall
include, but not be limited to, the following:
Alcohol and drug centers
Assisted living facilities
Congregate care facilities
Convalescent facilities
20
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
DEFINITIONS
Group homes
Half-way houses
Residential board and care facilities
Social rehabilitation facilities
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons
shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the
International Residential Code in accordance with Sec-
tion 101 .2 of the International Building Code. A facility
such as above, housing at least six and not more than 16
persons, shall be classified as Group R-4.
[B] Group 1-2. This occupancy shall include buildings
and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric,
nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis of more than
five persons who are not capable of self-preservation.
This group shall include, but not be limited to, the fol-
lowing:
Hospitals
Nursing homes (both intermediate care facilities and
skilled nursing facilities)
Mental hospitals
Detoxification facilities
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons
shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the
International Residential Code in accordance with Sec-
tion 101.2 of the International Building Code.
Group 1-3. This occupancy shall include buildings and
structures which are inhabited by more than five persons
who are under restraint or security. An 1-3 facility is occu-
pied by persons who are generally incapable of self-pres-
ervation due to security measures not under the occupants '
control. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the
following:
Correctional centers
Detention centers
Jails
Prerelease centers
Prisons
Reformatories
Buildings of Group 1-3 shall be classified as one of the
occupancy conditions indicated below:
Condition 1. This occupancy condition shall include
buildings in which free movement is allowed from
sleeping areas and other spaces where access or occu-
pancy is permitted, to the exterior via means of egress
without restraint. A Condition 1 facility is permitted
to be constructed as Group R.
Condition 2. This occupancy condition shall include
buildings in which free movement is allowed from
sleeping areas and any other occupied smoke com-
partment to one or more other smoke compartments.
Egress to the exterior is impeded by locked exits.
Condition 3. This occupancy condition shall include
buildings in which free movement is allowed within
individual smoke compartments, such as within a
residential unit comprised of individual sleeping units
and group activity spaces, where egress is impeded by
remote-controlled release of means of egress from
such smoke compartment to another smoke compart-
ment.
Condition 4. This occupancy condition shall include
buildings in which free movement is restricted from
an occupied space. Remote-controlled release is
provided to permit movement from sleeping units,
activity spaces and other occupied areas within the
smoke compartment to other smoke compartments.
Condition 5. This occupancy condition shall include
buildings in which free movement is restricted from
an occupied space. Staff-controlled manual release is
provided to permit movement from sleeping units,
activity spaces and other occupied areas within the
smoke compartment to other smoke compartments.
Group 1-4, day care facilities. This group shall include
buildings and structures occupied by persons of any age
who receive custodial care for less than 24 hours by individ-
uals other than parents or guardians, relatives by blood mar-
riage, or adoption, and in a place other than the home of the
person cared for. A faciUty such as the above with five or
fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall com-
ply with the International Residential Code in accordance
with Section 101.2 of the International Building Code.
Places of worship during religious functions are not
included.
Adult care facility. A facility that provides accom-
modations for less than 24 hours for more than five
unrelated adults and provides supervision and per-
sonal care services shall be classified as Group 1-4.
Exception: Where the occupants are capable of
responding to an emergency situation without
physical assistance from the staff the facility shall
be classified as Group A-3.
Child care facility. A facility that provides supervi-
sion and personal care on less than a 24-hour basis for
more than five children 272 years of age or less shall
be classified as Group 1-4.
Exception: A child day care facility which pro-
vides care for more than five but no more than 100
children 2'/2 years or less of age, when the rooms
where such children are cared for are located on
the level of exit discharge and each of these child
care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior,
shall be classified as Group E.
[B] Mercantile Group M. Mercantile Group M occupancy
includes, among others, buildings and structures or a por-
tion thereof, for the display and sale of merchandise, and
involves stocks of goods, wares or merchandise incidental
to such purposes and accessible to the public. Mercantile
occupancies shall include, but not be limited to, the follow-
ing.
Department stores
Drug stores
Markets
Motor fuel-dispensing facihties
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
21
DEFINITIONS
Retail or wholesale stores
Sales rooms
[B] Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes,
among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion
thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an
Institutional Group I or when not regulated by the Interna-
tional Residential Code in accordance with SectionlOl.2 of
the International Building Code. Residential occupancies
shall include the following:
R-1 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units
where the occupants are primarily transient in nature,
including:
Boarding houses (transient)
Hotels (transient)
Motels (transient)
R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or
m ore than two dwelling units where the occupants are
primarily permanent in nature, including:
Apartment houses
Boarding houses (not transient)
Convents
Dormitories
Fraternities and sororities
Hotels (nontransient)
Monasteries
Motels (nontransient)
Vacation timeshare properties
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer occupants
are permitted to comply with the construction requirements
for Group R-3.
R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are
primarily permanent in nature and not classified as R-1,
R-2, R-4 or I, including:
Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling
units
Adult care facilities that provide accommodations for
five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24
hours
Child care facilities that provide accommodations for
five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24
hours
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons.
Adult and child care facilities that are within a sin-
gle-family home are permitted to comply with the Inter-
national Residential Code.
R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings
arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted liv-
ing facilities including more than five but not more than
16 occupants, excluding staff.
Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements
for construction as defined in the International Building
Code for Group R-3, except as otherwise provided for in
that code, or shall comply with the International Resi-
dential Code.
[B] Storage Group S. Storage Group S occupancy
includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or
a portion thereof, for storage that is not classified as a haz-
ardous occupancy.
Moderate-hazard storage, Group S-1. Buildings
occupied for storage uses that are not classified as Group
S-2, including, but not limited to, storage of the follow-
ing:
Aerosols, Levels 2 and 3
Aircraft repair hangar
Bags; cloth, burlap and paper
Bamboos and rattan
Baskets
Belting; canvas and leather
Books and paper in rolls or packs
Boots and shoes
Buttons, including cloth covered, pearl or bone
Cardboard and cardboard boxes
Clothing, woolen wearing apparel
Cordage
Dry boat storage (indoor)
Furniture
Furs
Glues, mucilage, pastes and size
Grains
Horns and combs, other than celluloid
Leather
Linoleum
Lumber
Motor vehicle repair garages (complying with the
International Building Code and containing less
than the maximum allowable quantities of hazard-
ous materials)
Photo engravings
Resilient flooring
Silks
Soaps
Sugar
Tires, bulk storage of
Tobacco, cigars, cigarettes and snuff
Upholstery and mattresses
Wax candles
Low-hazard storage, Group S-2. Includes, among oth-
ers, buildings used for the storage of noncombustible
materials such as products on wood pallets or in paper
cartons with or without single thickness divisions; or in
paper wrappings. Such products may have a negligible
amount of plastic trim such as knobs, handles, or film
wrapping. Storage uses shall include, but not be limited
to, storage of the following:
Aircraft hangar
Asbestos
Beverages up to and including 12-percent alcohol in
metal, glass or ceramic containers
Cement in bags
Chalk and crayons
Dairy products in nonwaxed coated paper containers
Dry cell batteries
Electrical coils
Electrical motors
Empty cans
22
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
DEFINITIONS
Food products
Foods in noncombustible containers
Fresh fruits and vegetables in nonplastic trays or
containers
Frozen foods
Glass
Glass bottles, empty or filled with noncombustible
liquids
Gypsum board
Inert pigments
Ivory
Metal desks with plastic tops and trim
Metal parts
Metals
Mirrors
Oil-filled and other types of distribution transformers
Parking garages (open or enclosed)
Porcelain and pottery
Stoves
Talc and soapstones
Washers and dryers
[B] Miscellaneous Group U. Buildings and structures of an
accessory character and miscellaneous structures not classi-
fied in any specific occupancy shall be constructed,
equipped and maintained to conform to the requirements of
this code commensurate with the fire and life hazard inci-
dental to their occupancy. Group U shall include, but not be
limited to, the following:
Agricultural buildings
Aircraft hangar, accessory to a one- or two-family
residence (see Section 412.3 of the International
Building Code)
Bams
Carports
Fences more than 6 feet (1829 mm) high
Grain silos, accessory to a residential occupancy
Greenhouses
Livestock shelters
Private garages
Retaining walls
Sheds
Stables
Tanks
Towers
[B] OCCUPANT LOAD. See Section 1002.1.
OPEN BURNING. See Section 302.1.
OPEN SYSTEM. The use of a solid or liquid hazardous mate-
rial involving a vessel or system that is continuously open to the
atmosphere during normal operations and where vapors are
liberated, or the product is exposed to the atmosphere during
normal operations. Examples of open systems for solids and
liquids include dispensing from or into open beakers or con-
tainers, dip tank and plating tank operations.
OPERATING BUILDING. See Section 3302.1.
I OPERATING LINE. See Section 3302.1.
OPERATING PRESSURE. The pressure at which a system
operates.
ORGANIC COATING. See Section2002.1.
ORGANIC PEROXIDE. See Section 3902.1.
Class L See Section 3902.1.
Class IL See Section 3902.1.
Class m. See Section 3902.1.
Class IV. See Section 3902.1.
Class V. See Section 3902.1.
Unclassified detonable. See Section 3902.1.
OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA. See Section 2702.1.
OVERCROWDING. A condition that exists when either
there are more people in a building, structure or portion thereof
than have been authorized or posted by the fire code official, or
when the fire code official determines that a threat exists to the
safety of the occupants due to persons sitting and/or standing in
locations that may obstruct or impede the use of aisles, pas-
sages, corridors, stairways, exits or other components of the
means of egress.
OWNER. A corporation, firm, partnership, association, orga-
nization and any other group acting as a unit, or a person who
has legal title to any structure or premises with or without
accompanying actual possession thereof, and shall include the
duly authorized agent or attorney, a purchaser, devisee, fidu-
ciary and any person having a vested or contingent interest in
the premises in question.
OXIDIZER. See Section 4002.1.
Class 4. See Section 4002.1.
Class 3. See Section 4002.1.
Class 2. See Section 4002.1.
Class 1. See Section 4002.1.
OXIDIZING GAS. See Section 4002.1.
OZONE-GAS GENERATOR. See Section 3702.1.
[B] PANIC HARDWARE. See Section 1002.1.
PASS-THROUGH. See Section 1802.1.
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE LIMIT (PEL). See Section
2702.1.
PESTICIDE. See Section 2702.1.
PHYSICAL HAZARD. See Section 2702.1.
PHYSIOLOGICAL WARNING THRESHOLD. See Sec-
tion 3702.1.
PLOSOPHORIC MATERIAL. See Section 3302.1.
PLYWOOD and VENEER MILLS. See Section 1902.1.
POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCK. See Section 302.1.
PRESSURE VESSEL. See Section 2702. 1 .
PRIMARY CONTAINMENT. The first level of contain-
ment, consisting of the inside portion of that container which
comes into immediate contact on its inner surface with the
material being contained.
PROCESS TRANSFER. See Section 3402.1.
PROPELLANT. See Section 2802.1.
PROXIMATE AUDIENCE. See Section 3302.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
23
DEFINITIONS
PUBLIC TRAFFIC ROUTE (PTR). See Section 3302.1.
[B] PUBLIC WAY. See Section 1002.1.
PYROPHORIC. See Section 4102.1.
PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION. See Section 3302.1.
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL EFFECT. See Section 3302.1.
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL-EFFECT MATERIAL. See
Section 3302.1.
QUANTITY-DISTANCE (Q-D). See Section 3302.1.
Minimum Separation Distance (D^). See Section 3302. 1 .
Intraline Distance (ILD) or Intraplant Distance (IPD).
See Section 3302.1.
Inhabited Building Distance (IBD). See Section 3302.1.
I Intermagazine Distance (IMD). See Section 3302. 1 .
RAILWAY. See Section 3302.1.
[B] RAMP. See Section 1002.1.
RAW PRODUCT. See Section 1902.1.
READY BOX. See Section 3302.1.
RECORD DRAWINGS. See Section 902.1.
RECREATIONAL FIRE. See Section 302.1.
REDUCED FLOW VALVE. See Section 3702.1.
REFINERY. See Section 3402.1.
REFRIGERANT. See Section 602.1.
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM. See Section 602.1.
[B] REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. An archi-
tect or engineer, registered or licensed to practice professional
architecture or engineering, as defined by the statutory require-
ments of the professional registration laws of the state in which
the project is to be constructed.
I[B] RELIGIOUS WORSHIP, PLACE OE A building or
portion thereof intended for the performance of religious ser-
vices.
REMOTE EMERGENCY SHUTOFF DEVICE. See Sec
tion 3402.1.
REMOTELY LOCATED, MANUALLY ACTIVATED
SHUTDOWN CONTROL. A control system that is designed
to initiate shutdown of the flow of gases or liquids that is manu-
ally activated from a point located some distance from the
delivery system.
REMOTE SOLVENT RESERVOIR. See Section 3402.1.
REPAIR GARAGE. See Section 2202.1.
RESIN APPLICATION AREA. See Section 1502.1.
RESPONSIBLE PERSON. See Section 2602.1.
RETAIL DISPLAY AREA. See Section 2802.1.
ROLL COATING. See Section 1502.1.
RUBBISH (TRASH). Combustible and noncombustible
waste materials, including residue from the burning of coal,
wood, coke or other combustible material, paper, rags, cartons,
tin cans, metals, mineral matter, glass crockery, dust and dis-
carded refrigerators, and heating, cooking or incinerator-type
appliances.
SAFETY CAN. See Section 2702.1.
[B] SCISSOR STAIR. See Section 1002.1.
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT. See Section 2702.1.
SEGREGATED. See Section 2702.1.
SELF-SERVICE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACIL-
ITY. See Section 2202. 1 .
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITY. See
Section 1802.1.
SERVICE CORRIDOR. See Section 1802.1.
SHELF STORAGE. See Section 2302.1.
SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. See Section 902.1.
[B] SLEEPING UNIT. See Section 902.1.
SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION. See Section 3302.1.
SMALL ARMS PRIMERS. See Section 3302.1.
SMOKE ALARM. See Section 902.1.
SMOKE DETECTOR. See Section 902.1.
[B] SMOKE-PROTECTED ASSEMBLY SEATING. See
Section 1002.1.
SMOKELESS PROPELLANTS. See Section 3302.1.
SOLID. See Section 2702.1.
SOLID SHELVING. See Section 2302.1.
SOLVENT DISTILLATION UNIT. See Section 3402.1
SOLVENT OR LIQUID CLASSIFICATIONS. See Section
1202.1.
Class I solvents. See Section 1202.1.
Class II solvents. See Section 1202.1.
Class IIIA solvents. See Section 1202.1.
Class IIIB solvents. See Section 1202.1.
Class IV solvents. See Section 1202.1.
SPECIAL AMUSEMENT BUILDING. A building that is
temporary, permanent or mobile that contains a device or sys-
tem that conveys passengers or provides a walkway along,
around or over a course in any direction as a form of amuse-
ment arranged so that the egress path is not readily apparent
due to visual or audio distractions or an intentionally con-
founded egress path, or is not readily available because of the
mode of conveyance through the building or structure.
SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL EXPLOSIVE DEVICE. See Sec-
tion 3302.1.
SPRAY BOOTH. See Section 1502.1.
SPRAY ROOM. See Section 1502.1.
SPRAYING SPACE. See Section 1502.1.
[B] STAIR. See Section 1002.1.
[B] STAIRWAY. See Section 1002.1.
[B] STAIRWAY, EXTERIOR. See Section 1002.1.
[B] STAIRWAY, INTERIOR. See Section 1002.1.
24
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
DEFINITIONS
[B] STAIRWAY, SPIRAL. See Section 1002.1.
STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF. See Section 902.1.
Class I system. See Section 902.1.
Class II system. See Section 902.1.
Class III system. See Section 902.1.
STANDPIPE, TYPES OF. See Section 902.1.
Automatic dry. See Section 902.1.
Automatic wet. See Section 902.1.
Manual dry. See Section 902.1.
Manual wet. See Section 902.1.
Semiautomatic dry. See Section 902.1.
STATIC PILES. See Sectionl902.1.
STEEL. Hot- or cold-rolled as defined by the International
Building Code.
STORAGE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. See Section
2702.1.
SUPERVISING STATION. See Section 902.1.
SUPERVISORY SERVICE. See Section 902.1.
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATING DEVICE. See
Section 902.1.
SYSTEM. See Section 2702.1.
TANK. A vessel containing more than 60 gallons (227 L).
TANK, ATMOSPHERIC. See Section 2702.1.
TANK, PORTABLE. See Section 2702.1.
TANK, PRIMARY. See Section 3402.1.
TANK, PROTECTED ABOVE GROUND. See Section
3402.1.
TANK, STATIONARY. See Section 2702.1.
TANK VEHICLE. See Section 2702.1.
TENT. See Section 2402.1.
THEFT RESISTANT. See Section 3302.1.
THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING. See Section
1702.1.
TIMBER and LUMBER PRODUCTION FACILITIES.
See Section 1902.1.
TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF. See Section 902.1.
TOOL. See Section 1802.1.
TORCH- APPLIED ROOF SYSTEM. See Section 2602.1.
TOXIC. See Section 3702.1.
TRANSVERSE FLUE SPACE. See Section 2302.1.
TRASH. See "Rubbish."
TROUBLE SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
UNAUTHORIZED DISCHARGE. See Section 2702.1.
UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIAL. See Section
4302.1.
Class 4. See Section 4302.1.
Class 3. See Section 4302.1.
Class 2. See Section 4302.1.
Class 1. See Section 4302.1.
UNWANTED FIRE. A fire not used for cooking, heating or
recreational purposes or one not incidental to the normal opera-
tions of the property.
USE (MATERIAL). See Section 2702.1.
VAPOR PRESSURE. See Section 2702.1.
VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. See
Section 902.1.
WATER-REACTFVE MATERIAL. See Section 4402.1.
Class 3. See Section 4402.1.
Class 2. See Section 4402.1.
Class 1. See Section 4402.1.
WET-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. See Sec
tion 902.1.
[B] WINDER. See Section 1002.1.
WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
WORKSTATION. See Section 1802.1.
ZONE. See Section 902.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
25
26 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 3
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
SECTION 301
GENERAL
301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the
occupancy and maintenance of all structures and premises for
precautions against fire and the spread of fire.
301.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section
105.6 for the activities or uses regulated by Sections 306, 307,
308.3, 308.4, 308.5 and 315.
SECTION 302
DEFINITIONS
302.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
BONFIRE. An outdoor fire utilized for ceremonial purposes.
HI-BOY. A cart used to transport hot roofing materials on a
roof.
OPEN BURNING. The burning of materials wherein prod-
ucts of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air
without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed
chamber. Open burning does not include road flares,
smudgepots and similar devices associated with safety or occu-
pational uses typically considered open flames or recreational
fires. For the purpose of this definition, a chamber shall be
regarded as enclosed when, during the time combustion occurs,
only apertures, ducts, stacks, flues or chimneys necessary to
provide combustion air and permit the escape of exhaust gas
are open.
POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCK. A forklift, tractor,
platform lift truck or motorized hand truck powered by an elec-
trical motor or internal combustion engine. Powered industrial
trucks do not include farm vehicles or automotive vehicles for
highway use.
RECREATIONAL FIRE. An outdoor fire burning materials
other than rubbish where the fuel being burned is not contained
in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque
pit and has a total fuel area of 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diame-
ter and 2 feet (610 nmi) or less in height for pleasure, religious,
ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purposes.
SECTION 303
ASPHALT KETTLES
303.1 Transporting. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall not be trans-
ported over any highway, road or street when the heat source
for the kettle is operating.
Exception: Asphalt (tar) kettles in the process of patching
road surfaces.
303.2 Location. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall not be located
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of any combustible material, com-
bustible building surface or any building opening and within a
controlled area identified by the use of traffic cones, barriers or
other approved means. Asphalt (tar) kettles and pots shall not
be utilized inside or on the roof of a building or structure. Roof-
ing kettles and operating asphalt (tar) kettles shall not block
means of egress, gates, roadways or entrances.
303.3 Location of fuel containers. Fuel containers shall be
located at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from the burner.
Exception: Containers properly insulated from heat or
flame are allowed to be within 2 feet (610 mm) of the burner.
303.4 Attendant. An operating kettle shall be attended by a
minimum of one employee knowledgeable of the operations
and hazards. The employee shall be within 1(X) feet (30 480
nmi) of the kettle and have the kettle within sight. Ladders or
similar obstacles shall not form a part of the route between the
attendant and the kettle.
303.5 Fire extinguishers. There shall be a portable fire extin-
guisher complying with Section 906 and with a minimum
40-B:C rating within 25 feet (7620 mm) of each asphalt (tar)
kettle during the period such kettle is being utilized.
Additionally, there shall be one portable fire extinguisher with
a minimum 3-A:40-B:C rating on the roof being covered.
303.6 Lids. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall be equipped with
tight-fitting lids.
303.7 Hi-boys. Hi-boys shall be constructed of
noncombustible materials. Hi- boys shall be limited to a capac-
ity of 55 gallons (208 L). Fuel sources or heating elements shall
not be allowed as part of a hi-boy.
303.8 Roofing kettles. Roofing kettles shall be constructed of
noncombustible materials.
303.9 Fuel containers under air pressure. Fuel containers
that operate under air pressure shall not exceed 20 gallons (76
L) in capacity and shall be approved.
SECTION 304
COMBUSTIBLE WASTE MATERIAL
304.1 Waste accumulation prohibited. Combustible waste
material creating a fire hazard shall not be allowed to accumu-
late in buildings or structures or upon premises.
304.1.1 Waste material. Accumulations of wastepaper,
wood, hay, straw, weeds, litter or combustible or flanmiable
waste or rubbish of any type shall not be permitted to remain
on a roof or in any court, yard, vacant lot, alley, parking lot,
open space, or beneath a grandstand, bleacher, pier, wharf,
manufactured home, recreational vehicle or other similar
structure.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
27
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
304.1.2 Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines or other growth
that is capable of being ignited and endangering property,
shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of
the premises. Vegetation clearance requirements in
urban- wildland interface areas shall be in accordance with
the International Wildland- Urban Interface Code.
304.1.3 Space underneath seats. Spaces underneath
grandstand and bleacher seats shall be kept free from com-
bustible and flammable materials. Except where enclosed in
not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction in
accordance with the International Building Code, spaces
underneath grandstand and bleacher seats shall not be occu-
pied or utilized for purposes other than means of egress.
304.2 Storage. Storage of combustible rubbish shall not pro-
duce conditions that will create a nuisance or a hazard to the
public health, safety or welfare.
304.3 Containers. Combustible rubbish, and waste material
kept within a structure shall be stored in accordance with Sec-
tions 304.3.1 through 304.3.3.
304.3.1 Spontaneous ignition. Materials susceptible to
spontaneous ignition, such as oily rags, shall be stored in a
listed disposal container. Contents of such containers shall
be removed and disposed of daily.
304.3.2 Capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet. Containers
with a capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons) (0.15
m^) shall be provided with lids. Containers and lids shall be
constructed of noncombustible materials or approved com-
bustible materials.
304.3.3 Capacity exceeding 1.5 cubic yards. Dumpsters
and containers with an individual capacity of 1.5 cubic
yards [40.5 cubic feet (1.15 m^)] or more shall not be stored
in buildings or placed within 5 feet (1524 mm) of combusti-
ble walls, openings or combustible roof eave lines.
Exceptions:
1 . Dumpsters or containers in areas protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed
throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1,
903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
2. Storage in a structure shall not be prohibited where
the structure is of Type I or IIA construction,
located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from other
buildings and used exclusively for dumpster or
container storage.
SECTION 305
IGNITION SOURCES
305.1 Clearance from ignition sources. Clearance between
I ignition sources, such as luminaires, heaters, flame-producing
devices and combustible materials, shall be maintained in an
approved manner.
305.2 Hot aslies and spontaneous ignition sources. Hot
ashes, cinders, smoldering coals or greasy or oily materials
subject to spontaneous ignition shall not be deposited in a com-
bustible receptacle, within 10 feet (3048 mm) of other combus-
tible material including combustible walls and partitions or
within 2 feet (610 mm) of openings to buildings.
Exception: The minimum required separation distance to
other combustible materials shall be 2 feet (610 mm) where
the material is deposited in a covered, noncombustible
receptacle placed on a noncombustible floor, ground sur-
face or stand.
305.3 Open-flame warning devices. Open-flame warning
devices shall not be used along an excavation, road, or any
place where the dislodgment of such device might permit the
device to roll, fall or slide on to any area or land containing
combustible material.
305.4 Deliberate or negligent burning. It shall be unlawful to
deliberately or through negligence set fire to or cause the burn-
ing of combustible material in such a manner as to endanger the
safety of persons or property.
SECTION 306
MOTION PICTURE PROJECTION ROOMS
AND FILM
306.1 Motion picture projection rooms. Electric arc, xenon
or other light source projection equipment which develops haz-
ardous gases, dust or radiation and the projection of rib-
bon-type cellulose nitrate film, regardless of the light source
used in projection, shall be operated within a motion picture
projection room complying with Section 409 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
306.2 Cellulose nitrate film storage. Storage of cellulose
nitrate film shall be in accordance with NFPA 40.
SECTION 307
OPEN BURNING AND RECREATIONAL FIRES
307.1 General. A person shall not kindle or maintain or autho-
rize to be kindled or maintained any open burning unless con-
ducted and approved in accordance with this section.
307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning that is
offensive or objectionable because of smoke or odor emis-
sions or when atmospheric conditions or local circum-
stances make such fires hazardous shall be prohibited.
307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the
fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6 prior to
kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife
management practices, prevention or control of disease or
pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be
presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon
which the fire is to be kindled.
307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local
law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted
with prior approval from the state or local air and water
quality management authority, provided that all conditions
specified in the authorization are followed.
307.3 Extinguishment authority. The fire code official is
authorized to order the extinguishment by the permit holder,
another person responsible or the fire department of open bum-
r
28
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
ing that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situa-
tion.
307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less
than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions
shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50
feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.
Exceptions:
1. Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15
feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
2. The minimum required distance from a structure shall
be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914
mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in
height.
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within
50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material
unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions
which could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240
mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be
conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or com-
bustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to
spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be elim-
inated prior to ignition.
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires or recreational fires
shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. A
minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with
Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved
on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water
barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for imme-
diate utilization.
SECTION 308
OPEN FLAMES
308.1 General. This section shall control open flames, fire and
burning on all premises.
308.2 Where prohibited. A person shall not take or utilize an
open flame or light in a structure, vessel, boat or other place
where highly flammable, combustible or explosive material is
utilized or stored. Lighting appliances shall be well-secured in
a glass globe and wire mesh cage or a similar approved device.
308.2.1 Throwing or placing sources of ignition. No per-
son shall throw or place, or cause to be thrown or placed, a
lighted match, cigar, cigarette, matches, or other flaming or
glowing substance or object on any surface or article where
it can cause an unwanted fire.
308.3 Open flame. A person shall not utilize or allow to be uti-
lized, an open flame in connection with a public meeting or
gathering for purposes of deliberation, worship, entertainment,
amusement, instruction, education, recreation, awaiting trans-
portation or similar purpose in Group A or E occupancies with-
out first obtaining a permit in accordance with Section 105.6.
308.3.1 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners
and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated
on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of
combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are pro-
tected by an automatic sprinkler system.
308.3.1.1 Liquefied-petroleum-gas-fueled cooking
devices. LP-gas burners having an LP-gas container with
a water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds [nominal 1
pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] shall not be located
on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of
combustible construction.
Exception: One- and two-family dwelhngs.
308.3.2 Open-flame decorative devices. Open-flame dec-
orative devices shall comply with all of the following
restrictions:
1 . Class I and Class II liquids and LP-gas shall not be
used.
2. Liquid- or solid-fueled lighting devices containing
more than 8 ounces (237 ml) of fuel must self-extin-
guish and not leak fuel at a rate of more than 0.25
teaspoon per minute (1.26 ml per minute) if tipped
over.
3. The device or holder shall be constructed to prevent
the spillage of liquid fuel or wax at the rate of more
than 0.25 teaspoon per minute (1 .26 ml per minute)
when the device or holder is not in an upright posi-
tion.
4. The device or holder shall be designed so that it will
return to the upright position after being tilted to an
angle of 45 degrees from vertical.
Exception: Devices that self-extinguish if
tipped over and do not spill fuel or wax at the
rate of more than 0.25 teaspoon per minute
(1.26 ml per minute) if tipped over.
5. The flame shall be enclosed except where openings
on the side are not more than 0.375 inch (9.5 mm)
diameter or where openings are on the top and the
distance to the top is such that a piece of tissue paper
placed on the top will not ignite in 10 seconds.
6. Chimneys shall be made of noncombustible materi-
als and securely attached to the open-flame device.
Exception: A chimney is not required to be
attached to any open-flame device that will
self-extinguish if the device is tipped over.
7. Fuel canisters shall be safely sealed for storage.
8 . Storage and handling of combustible liquids shall be
in accordance with Chapter 34.
9. Shades, where used, shall be made of
noncombustible materials and securely attached to
the open-flame device holder or chimney.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
29
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
10. Candelabras with flame-lighted candles shall be
securely fastened in place to prevent overturning,
and shall be located away from occupants using the
area and away from possible contact with drapes,
curtains or other combustibles.
308.3.3 Location near combustibles. Open flames such as
from candles, lanterns, kerosene heaters, and gas-fired heat-
ers shall not be located on or near decorative material or
similar combustible materials.
308.3.4 Aisles and exits. Candles shall be prohibited in
areas where occupants stand, or in an aisle or exit.
308.3.5 Religious ceremonies. When, in the opinion of the
fire code official, adequate safeguards have been taken, par-
ticipants in religious ceremonies are allowed to carry
hand-held candles. Hand-held candles shall not be passed
from one person to another while lighted.
308.3.6 Theatrical performances. Where approved,
open-flame devices used in conjunction with theatrical per-
formances are allowed to be used when adequate safety pre-
cautions have been taken in accordance with NFPA 160.
308.3.7 Group A occupancies. Open-flame devices shall
not be used in a Group A occupancy.
Exceptions:
1 . Open-flame devices are allowed to be used in the
following situations, provided approved precau-
tions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible
material or injury to occupants:
1.1. Where necessary for ceremonial or reli-
gious purposes in accordance with Section
308.3.5.
1 .2. On stages and platforms as a necessary part
of a performance in accordance with Sec-
tion 308.3.6.
1.3. Where candles on tables are securely sup-
ported on substantial noncombustible
bases and the candle flames are protected.
2. Heat-producing equipment complying with Chap-
ter 6 and the International Mechanical Code.
3. Gas lights are allowed to be used provided ade-
quate precautions satisfactory to the fire code offi-
cial are taken to prevent ignition of combustible
materials.
308.3.8 Group R-2 dormitories. Candles, incense and
similar open-flame-producing items shall not be allowed in
sleeping units in Group R-2 dormitory occupancies.
308.4 Torches for removing paint. Persons utilizing a torch or
other flame-producing device for removing paint from a struc-
ture shall provide a minimum of one portable fire extinguisher
complying with Section 906 and with a minimum 4-A rating,
two portable fire extinguishers, each with a minimum 2-A rat-
ing, or a water hose connected to the water supply on the pre-
mises where such burning is done. The person doing the
burning shall remain on the premises 1 hour after the torch or
flame-producing device is utilized.
308.4.1 Permit. A permit in accordance with Section 105.6
shall be secured from the fire code official prior to the utili-
zation of a torch or flame-producing device to remove paint
from a structure.
308.5 Open-flame devices. Torches and other devices,
machines or processes liable to start or cause fire shall not be
operated or used in or upon hazardous fire areas, except by a
permit in accordance with Section 105.6 secured from the fire
code official.
Exception: Use within inhabited premises or designated
campsites which are a minimum of 30 feet (9 144 mm) from
grass-, grain-, brush- or forest-covered areas.
308.5.1 Signals and markers. Flame-employing devices,
such as lanterns or kerosene road flares, shall not be oper-
ated or used as a signal or marker in or upon hazardous fire
areas.
Exception: The proper use of fusees at the scenes of
emergencies or as required by standard railroad operat-
ing procedures.
308.5.2 Portable fueled open-flame devices. Portable
open-flame devices fueled by flammable or combustible
gases or liquids shall be enclosed or installed in such a man-
ner as to prevent the flame from contacting combustible
material.
Exceptions:
1. LP-gas-fueled devices used for sweating pipe
joints or removing paint in accordance with Chap-
ter 38.
2. Cutting and welding operations in accordance
with Chapter 26.
3 . Torches or flame-producing devices in accordance
with Section 308.4.
4. Candles and open-flame decorative devices in
accordance with Section 308.3.
308.6 Flaming food and beverage preparation. The prepara-
tion of flaming foods or beverages in places of assembly and
drinking or dining establishments shall be in accordance with
Sections 308.6.1 through 308.6.5.
308.6.1 Dispensing. Flammable or combustible liquids
used in the preparation of flaming foods or beverages shall
be dispensed from one of the following:
1. A 1-ounce (29.6 ml) container; or
2. A container not exceeding 1 -quart (946.5 ml) capac-
ity with a controlled pouring device that will limit the
flow to a 1-ounce (29.6 ml) serving.
308.6.2 Containers not in use. Containers shall be secured
to prevent spillage when not in use.
308.6.3 Serving of flaming food. The serving of flaming
foods or beverages shall be done in a safe manner and shall
not create high flames. The pouring, ladling or spooning of
liquids is restricted to a maximum height of 8 inches (203
mm) above the receiving receptacle.
308.6.4 Location. Flaming foods or beverages shall be pre-
pared only in the immediate vicinity of the table being ser-
30
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
viced. They shall not be transported or carried while
burning.
308.6.5 Fire protection. The person preparing the flaming
foods or beverages shall have a wet cloth towel immediately
available for use in smothering the flames in the event of an
emergency.
SECTION 309
POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS AND EQUIPMENT
309.1 General. Powered industrial trucks and similar equip-
ment including, but not limited to, floor scrubbers and floor
buffers, shall be operated and maintained in accordance with
this section.
309.2 Battery chargers. Battery chargers shall be of an
approved type. Combustible storage shall be kept a minimum
of 3 feet (915 mm) from battery chargers. Battery charging
shall not be conducted in areas accessible to the public.
309.3 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided in an approved
manner in battery-charging areas to prevent a dangerous accu-
mulation of flammable gases.
309.4 Fire extinguishers. Battery-charging areas shall be pro-
vided with a fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 hav-
ing a minimum 4-A:20-B :C rating within 20 feet (6096 mm) of
the battery charger.
309.5 Refueling. Powered industrial trucks using liquid fuel,
LP-gas or hydrogen shall be refueled outside of buildings or in
areas specifically approved for that purpose. Fixed fuel-dis-
pensing equipment and associated fueling operations shall be
in accordance with Chapter 22. Other fuel-dispensing equip-
ment and operations, including cylinder exchange for
LP-gas-fueled vehicles, shall be in accordance with Chapter 34
for flammable and combustible liquids or Chapter 38 for
LP-gas.
309.6 Repairs. Repairs to fuel systems, electrical systems and
repairs utilizing open flame or welding shall be done in
approved locations outside of buildings or in areas specifically
approved for that purpose.
SECTION 310
SMOKING
310.1 General. The smoking or carrying of a lighted pipe,
cigar, cigarette or any other type of smoking paraphernalia or
material is prohibited in the areas indicated in this section.
310.2 Prohibited areas. Smoking shall be prohibited where
conditions are such as to make smoking a hazard, and in spaces
where flammable or combustible materials are stored or han-
dled.
310.3 "No Smoking" signs. The fire code official is authorized
to order the posting of "No Smoking" signs in a conspicuous
location in each structure or location in which smoking is pro-
hibited. The content, lettering, size, color and location of
required "No Smoking" signs shall be approved.
310.4 Removal of signs prohibited. A posted "No Smoking"
sign shall not be obscured, removed, defaced, mutilated or
destroyed.
310.5 Compliance with "No Smoking" signs. Smoking shall
not be permitted nor shall a person smoke, throw or deposit any
lighted or smoldering substance in any place where "No Smok-
ing" signs are posted.
310.6 Ash trays. Where smoking is permitted, suitable
noncombustible ash trays or match receivers shall be provided
on each table and at other appropriate locations.
310.7 Burning objects. Lighted matches, cigarettes, cigars or
other burning object shall not be discarded in such a manner
that could cause ignition of other combustible material.
310.8 Hazardous environmental conditions. When the fire
code official determines that hazardous environmental condi-
tions necessitate controlled use of smoking materials, the igni-
tion or use of such materials in mountainous, brush-covered or
forest-covered areas or other designated areas is prohibited
except in approved designated smoking areas.
SECTION 311
VACANT PREMISES
311.1 General. Temporarily unoccupied buildings, structures,
premises or portions thereof, including tenant spaces, shall be
safeguarded and maintained in accordance with this section.
311.1.1 Abandoned premises. Buildings, structures and
premises for which an owner cannot be identified or located
by dispatch of a certificate of mailing to the last known or
registered address, which persistently or repeatedly become
unprotected or unsecured, which have been occupied by
unauthorized persons or for illegal purposes, or which pres-
ent a danger of structural collapse or fire spread to adjacent
properties shall be considered abandoned, declared unsafe
and abated by demolition or rehabilitation in accordance
with the International Property Maintenance Code and the
International Building Code.
311.1.2 Tenant spaceSi Storage and lease plans required by
this code shall be revised and updated to reflect temporary
or partial vacancies.
311.2 Safeguarding vacant premises. Temporarily unoccu-
pied buildings, structures, premises or portions thereof shall be
secured and protected in accordance with this section.
311.2.1 Security. Exterior openings and interior openings
accessible to other tenants or unauthorized persons shall be
boarded, locked, blocked or otherwise protected to prevent
entry by unauthorized individuals.
311.2.2 Fire protection. Fire alarm, sprinkler and
standpipe systems shall be maintained in an operable condi-
tion at all times.
Exceptions:
1 . When the premises have been cleared of all com-
bustible materials and debris and, in the opinion of
the fire code official, the type of construction, fire
separation distance and security of the premises do
not create a fire hazard.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
31
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
2. Where buildings will not be heated and fire protec-
tion systems will be exposed to freezing tempera-
tures, fire alarm and sprinkler systems are
permitted to be placed out of service and
standpipes are permitted to be maintained as dry
systems (without an automatic water supply) pro-
vided the building has no contents or storage, and
windows, doors and other openings are secured to
prohibit entry by unauthorized persons.
311.2.3 Fire separation. Fire-resistance-rated partitions,
fire barriers, and fire walls separating vacant tenant spaces
from the remainder of the building shall be maintained.
Openings, joints, and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated
assemblies shall be protected in accordance with Chapter 7.
311.3 Removal of combustibles. Persons owning, or in charge
or control of, a vacant building or portion thereof, shall remove
therefrom all accumulations of combustible materials, flam-
mable or combustible waste or rubbish and shall securely lock
or otherwise secure doors, windows and other openings to pre-
vent entry by unauthorized persons. The premises shall be
maintained clear of waste or hazardous materials.
Exceptions:
1 . Buildings or portions of buildings undergoing addi-
tions, alterations, repairs, or change of occupancy in
accordance with the International Building Code,
where waste is controlled and removed as required by
Section 304.
2. Seasonally occupied buildings.
311.4 Removal of hazardous materials. Persons owning or
having charge or control of a vacant building containing haz-
ardous materials regulated by Chapter 27 shall comply with the
facility closure requirements of Section 2701.6.
311.5 Placards. Any building or structure determined to be
unsafe pursuant to Section 1 10 of this code shall be marked as
required by Sections 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
311.5.1 Placard location. Placards shall be applied on the
front of the structure and be visible from the street. Addi-
tional placards shall be applied to the side of each entrance
to the structure and on penthouses.
311.5.2 Placard size and color. Placards shall be 24 inches
by 24 inches (610 mm by 610 mm) in size with a red back-
ground, white reflective stripes and a white reflective bor-
der. The stripes and border shall have a 2-inch (51 mm)
stroke.
311.5.3 Placard date. Placards shall bear the date of their
application to the building and the date of the most recent
inspection.
311.5.4 Placard symbols. The design of the placards shall
use the following symbols:
1 . QThis symbol shall mean that the structure had nor-
mal structural conditions at the time of marking.
2. [\] This symbol shall mean that structural or interior
hazards exist and interior fire-fighting or rescue oper-
ations should be conducted with extreme caution.
3. ^This symbol shall mean that structural or interior
hazards exist to a degree that consideration should be
given to limit fire fighting to exterior operations only,
with entry only occurring for known life hazards.
311.5.5 Informational use. The use of these symbols shall
be informational only and shall not in any way limit the dis-
cretion of the on-scene incident commander.
SECTION 312
VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
312.1 General. Vehicle impact protection required by this
code shall be provided by posts that comply with Section 312.2
or by other approved physical barriers that comply with Sec-
tion 312.3.
312.2 Posts. Guard posts shall comply with all of the following
requirements:
1. Constructed of steel not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in
diameter and concrete filled.
2. Spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) between posts on
center.
3. Set not less than 3 feet (914 mm) deep in a concrete foot-
ing of not less than a 15 -inch (381 mm) diameter.
4. Set with the top of the posts not less than 3 feet (914 mm)
above ground.
5. Located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the protected
object.
312.3 Other barriers. Physical barriers shall be a minimum of
36 inches (914 mm) in height and shall resist a force of 12,000
pounds (53 375 N) applied 36 inches (914 mm) above the adja-
cent ground surface.
SECTION 313
FUELED EQUIPMENT
313.1 General. Fueled equipment, including but not limited to
motorcycles, mopeds, lawn-care equipment and portable cook-
ing equipment, shall not be stored, operated or repaired within
a building.
Exceptions:
1 . Buildings or rooms constructed for such use in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
2. Where allowed by Section 314.
3. Storage of equipment utilized for maintenance pur-
poses is allowed in approved locations when the
aggregate fuel capacity of the stored equipment does
not exceed 10 gallons (38 L) and the building is
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
313.1.1 Removal. The fire code official is authorized to
require removal of fueled equipment from locations where
the presence of such equipment is determined by the fire
code official to be hazardous.
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GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
313.2 Group R occupancies. Vehicles powered by flammable
liquids. Class II combustible liquids, or compressed flammable
gases shall not be stored within the living space of Group R
buildings.
SECTION 314
INDOOR DISPLAYS
314.1 General. Indoor displays constructed within any occu-
pancy shall comply with Sections 314.2 through 314.4.
314.2 Fixtures and displays. Fixtures and displays of goods
for sale to the public shall be arranged so as to maintain free,
immediate and unobstructed access to exits as required by
Chapter 10.
314.3 Highly combustible goods. The display of highly com-
bustible goods, including but not limited to fireworks, flamma-
ble or combustible liquids, liquefied flammable gases,
oxidizing materials, pyroxylin plastics and agricultural goods,
in main exit access aisles, corridors, covered malls, or within 5
feet (1524 mm) of entrances to exits and exterior exit doors is
prohibited when a fire involving such goods would rapidly pre-
vent or obstruct egress.
314.4 Vehicles. Liquid- or gas-fueled vehicles, boats or other
motorcraft shall not be located indoors except as follows:
1. Batteries are disconnected.
2. Fuel in fuel tanks does not exceed one-quarter tank or 5
gallons (19 L) (whichever is least).
3. Fuel tanks and fill openings are closed and sealed to pre-
vent tampering.
4. Vehicles, boats or other motorcraft equipment are not
fueled or defueled within the building.
bustible materials shall be protected on the storage side as
required for 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
Openings shall be protected by assemblies that are self-clos-
ing and are of noncombustible construction or solid wood
core not less than 1.75 inches (44.5 mm) in thickness. Stor-
age shall not be placed on exposed joists.
Exceptions:
1 . Areas protected by approved automatic sprinkler
systems.
2. Group R-3 and Group U occupancies.
315.3 Outside storage. Outside storage of combustible mate-
rials shall not be located within 1 feet (3048 mm) of a property
hne.
Exceptions:
1. The separation distance is allowed to be reduced to 3
feet (914 mm) for storage not exceeding 6 feet (1829
mm) in height.
2. The separation distance is allowed to be reduced
when the fire code official determines that no hazard
to the adjoining property exists.
315.3.1 Storage beneath overhead projections from
buildings. Combustible materials stored or displayed out-
side of buildings that are protected by automatic sprinklers
shall not be stored or displayed under nonsprinklered eaves,
canopies or other projections or overhangs.
315.3.2 Height. Storage in the open shall not exceed 20 feet
(6096 mm) in height.
SECTION 315
MISCELLANEOUS COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIALS STORAGE
315.1 General. Storage, use and handling of miscellaneous
combustible materials shall be in accordance with this section.
A permit shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.6.
315.2 Storage in buildings. Storage of combustible materials
in buildings shall be orderly. Storage shall be separated from
heaters or heating devices by distance or shielding so that igni-
tion cannot occur.
315.2.1 Ceiling clearance. Storage shall be maintained 2
feet (610 mm) or more below the ceiling in nonsprinklered
areas of buildings or a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm)
below sprinkler head deflectors in sprinklered areas of
buildings.
315.2.2 Means of egress. Combustible materials shall not
be stored in exits or exit enclosures.
315.2.3 Equipment rooms. Combustible material shall not
be stored in boiler rooms, mechanical rooms or electrical
equipment rooms.
315.2.4 Attic, under-floor and concealed spaces. Attic,
under-floor and concealed spaces used for storage of com-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
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34 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
SECTION 401
GENERAL
401.1 Scope. Reporting of emergencies, coordination with
emergency response forces, emergency plans, and procedures
for managing or responding to emergencies shall comply with
the provisions of this section.
Exception: Firms that have approved on-premises
fire-fighting organizations and that are in compliance with
approved procedures for fire reporting.
401.2 Approval. Where required by this code, fire safety
plans, emergency procedures, and employee training programs
shall be approved by the fire code official.
401.3 Emergency forces notification. In the event an
unwanted fire occurs on a property, the owner or occupant shall
immediately report such condition to the fire department.
Building employees and tenants shall implement the appropri-
ate emergency plans and procedures. No person shall, by ver-
bal or written directive, require any delay in the reporting of a
fire to the fire department.
401.3.1 Making false report. It shall be unlawful for a per-
son to give, signal, or transmit a false alarm.
401.3.2 Alarm activations. Upon activation of a fire alarm
signal, employees or staff shall immediately notify the fire
department.
401.3.3 Emergency evacuation drills. Nothing in this sec-
tion shall prohibit the sounding of a fire alarm signal or the
carrying out of an emergency evacuation drill in accordance
with the provisions of Section 405.
401.4 Interference with fire department operations. It shall
be unlawful to interfere with, attempt to interfere with, con-
spire to interfere with, obstruct or restrict the mobility of or
block the path of travel of a fire department emergency vehicle
in any way, or to interfere with, attempt to interfere with, con-
spire to interfere with, obstruct or hamper any fire department
operation.
401.5 Security device. Any security device or system that
emits any medium that could obscure a means of egress in any
building, structure or premise shall be prohibited.
SECTION 402
DEFINITIONS
402.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION DRILL. An exercise per-
formed to train staff and occupants and to evaluate their effi-
ciency and effectiveness in carrying out emergency evacuation
procedures.
SECTION 403
PUBLIC ASSEMBLAGES AND EVENTS
403.1 Fire watch personnel. When, in the opinion of the fire
code official, it is essential for public safety in a place of assem-
bly or any other place where people congregate, because of the
number of persons, or the nature of the performance, exhibi-
tion, display, contest or activity, the owner, agent or lessee shall
provide one or more fire watch personnel, as required and
approved, to remain on duty during the times such places are
open to the public, or when such activity is being conducted.
403.1.1 Duties. Fire watch personnel shall keep diligent
watch for fires, obstructions to means of egress and other
hazards during the time such place is open to the public or
such activity is being conducted and take prompt measures
for remediation of hazards, extinguishment of fires that
occur and assist in the evacuation of the public from the
structures.
403.2 Public safety plan. In other than Group A or E occupan-
cies, where the fire code official determines that an indoor or
outdoor gathering of persons has an adverse impact on public
safety through diminished access to buildings, structures, fire
hydrants and fire apparatus access roads or where such gather-
ings adversely affect public safety services of any kind, the fire
code official shall have the authority to order the development
of, or prescribe a plan for, the provision of an approved level of
public safety.
403.2.1 Contents. The public safety plan, where required
by Section 403.2, shall address such items as emergency
vehicle ingress and egress, fire protection, emergency medi-
cal services, public assembly areas and the directing of both
attendees and vehicles (including the parking of vehicles),
vendor and food concession distribution, and the need for
the presence of law enforcement, and fire and emergency
medical services personnel at the event.
SECTION 404
FIRE SAFETY AND EVACUATION PLANS
404.1 General. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply
with the requirements of this section.
404.2 Where required. An approved fire safety and evacua-
tion plan shall be prepared and maintained for the following
occupancies and buildings.
1 . Group A, other than Group A occupancies used exclu-
sively for purposes of religious worship that have an
occupant load less than 2,000.
2. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or
more persons or more than 100 persons above or below
the lowest level of exit discharge.
3. Group E.
4. Group H.
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EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
5. Group I.
6. Group R-1.
I 7. Group R-2 college and university buildings.
8. Group R-4.
9. High-rise buildings.
10. Group M buildings having an occupant load of 500 or
more persons or more than 100 persons above or below
the lowest level of exit discharge.
1 1 . Covered malls exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m^)
in aggregate floor area.
12. Underground buildings.
13. Buildings with an atrium and having an occupancy in
Group A, E or M.
404.3 Contents. Fire safety and evacuation plan contents shall
be in accordance with Sections 404.3.1 and 404.3.2.
404.3.1 Fire evacuation plans. Fire evacuation plans shall
include the following:
1 . Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evac-
uation of the building is to be complete or, where
approved, by selected floors or areas only.
2. Procedures for employees who must remain to oper-
ate critical equipment before evacuating.
3. Procedures for accounting for employees and occu-
pants after evacuation has been completed.
4. Identification and assignment of personnel responsi-
ble for rescue or emergency medical aid.
5. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying
occupants of a fire or emergency.
6. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting
fires and other emergencies to the fire department or
designated emergency response organization.
7. Identification and assignment of personnel who can
be contacted for further information or explanation of
duties under the plan.
8. A description of the emergency voice/alarm commu-
nication system alert tone and preprogranuned voice
messages, where provided.
404.3.2 Fire safety plans. Fire safety plans shall include the
following:
1. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emer-
gency.
2. The life safety strategy and procedures for notifying,
relocating, or evacuating occupants.
3. Site plans indicating the following:
3.1. The occupancy assembly point.
3.2. The locations of fire hydrants.
3.3. The normal routes of fire department vehicle
access.
4. Floor plans identifying the locations of the following:
4.1. Exits.
4.2. Primary evacuation routes.
4.3. Secondary evacuation routes.
4.4. Accessible egress routes.
4.5. Areas of refuge.
4.6. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4.7. Portable fire extinguishers.
4.8. Occupant-use hose stations.
4.9. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.
5 . A list of maj or fire hazards associated with the normal
use and occupancy of the premises, including mainte-
nance and housekeeping procedures.
6. Identification and assignment of personnel responsi-
ble for maintenance of systems and equipment
installed to prevent or control fires.
7. Identification and assignment of personnel responsi-
ble for maintenance, housekeeping and controlling
fuel hazard sources.
404.4 Maintenance. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be
reviewed or updated annually or as necessitated by changes in
staff assignments, occupancy, or the physical arrangement of
the building.
404.5 Availability. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be
available in the workplace for reference and review by employ-
ees, and copies shall be furnished to the fire code official for
review upon request.
SECTION 405
EMERGENCY EVACUATION DRILLS
405.1 General. Emergency evacuation drills complying with
the provisions of this section shall be conducted at least annu- I
ally in the occupancies listed in Section 404.2 or when required I
by the fire code official. Drills shall be designed in cooperation
with the local authorities.
405.2 Frequency. Required emergency evacuation drills shall
be held at the intervals specified in Table 405.2 or more fre-
quently where necessary to familiarize all occupants with the
drill procedure.
405.3 Leadership. Responsibility for the planning and con-
duct of drills shall be assigned to competent persons designated
to exercise leadership.
405.4 Time. Drills shall be held at unexpected times and under
varying conditions to simulate the unusual conditions that
occur in case of fire.
405.5 Record keeping. Records shall be maintained of
required emergency evacuation drills and include the following
information:
1. Identity of the person conducting the drill.
2. Date and time of the drill.
3. Notification method used.
4. Staff members on duty and participating.
5. Number of occupants evacuated.
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EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
6. Special conditions simulated.
7. Problems encountered.
8. Weather conditions when occupants were evacuated.
9. Time required to accomplish complete evacuation.
TABLE 405.2
FIRE AND EVACUATION DRILL
FREQUENCY AND PARTICIPATION
GROUP OR
OCCUPANCY
FREQUENCY
PARTICIPATION
Group A
Quarterly
Employees
Group B=
Annually
Employees
Group E
Monthly'^
All occupants
Group I
Quarterly on each shift
Employees''
Group R-1
Quarterly on each shift
Employees
Group R-2''
Four annually
All occupants
Group R-4
Quarterly on each shift
Employees"'
High-rise buildings
Annually
Employees
a. The frequency shall be allowed to be modified in accordance with Section
408.3.2.
b. Fire and evacuation drills in residential care assisted living facilities shall
include complete evacuation of the premises in accordance with Section
408.10.5. Where occupants receive habilitation or rehabilitation training,
fire prevention and fire safety practices shall be included as part of the train-
ing program.
c. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more
than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
d. Applicable to Group R-2 college and university buildings in accordance
with Section 408.3.
405.6 Notification. Where required by the fire code official,
prior notification of emergency evacuation drills shall be given
to the fire code official.
405.7 Initiation. Where a fire alarm system is provided, emer-
gency evacuation drills shall be initiated by activating the fire
alarm system.
405.8 Accountability. As building occupants arrive at the
assembly point, efforts shall be made to determine if all occu-
pants have been successfully evacuated or have been accounted
for.
405.9 Recall and reentry. An electrically or mechanically
operated signal used to recall occupants after an evacuation
shall be separate and distinct from the signal used to initiate the
evacuation. The recall signal initiation means shall be manu-
ally operated and under the control of the person in charge of
the premises or the official in charge of the incident. No one
shall reenter the premises until authorized to do so by the offi-
cial in charge.
SECTION 406
EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND RESPONSE
PROCEDURES
406.1 General. Employees in the occupancies listed in Section
404.2 shall be trained in the fire emergency procedures
described in their fire evacuation and fire safety plans. Training
shall be based on these plans and as described in Section 404.3.
406.2 Frequency. Employees shall receive training in the con-
tents of fire safety and evacuation plans and their duties as part
of new employee orientation and at least annually thereafter.
Records shall be kept and made available to the fire code offi-
cial upon request.
406.3 Employee training program. Employees shall be
trained in fire prevention, evacuation and fire safety in accor-
dance with Sections 406.3.1 through 406.3.3.
406.3.1 Fire prevention training. Employees shall be
apprised of the fire hazards of the materials and processes to
which they are exposed. Each employee shall be instructed
in the proper procedures for preventing fires in the conduct
of their assigned duties.
406.3.2 Evacuation training. Employees shall be familiar-
ized with the fire alarm and evacuation signals, their
assigned duties in the event of an alarm or emergency, evac-
uation routes, areas of refuge, exterior assembly areas, and
procedures for evacuation.
406.3.3 Fire safety training. Employees assigned
fire-fighting duties shall be trained to know the locations
and proper use of portable fire extinguishers or other man-
ual fire-fighting equipment and the protective clothing or
equipment required for its safe and proper use.
SECTION 407
HAZARD COMMUNICATION
407.1 General. The provisions of Sections 407.2 through
407.7 shall be applicable where hazardous materials subject to
permits under Section 2701.5 are located on the premises or
where required by the fire code official.
407.2 Material Safety Data Sheets. Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) for all hazardous materials shall be readily
available on the premises.
407.3 Identification. Individual containers of hazardous mate-
rials, cartons or packages shall be marked or labeled in accor-
dance with applicable federal regulations. Buildings, rooms
and spaces containing hazardous materials shall be identified
by hazard warning signs in accordance with Section 2703.5.
407.4 Training. Persons responsible for the operation of areas
in which hazardous materials are stored, dispensed, handled or
used shall be familiar with the chemical nature of the materials
and the appropriate mitigating actions necessary in the event of
a fire, leak or spill. Responsible persons shall be designated and
trained to be liaison personnel for the fire department. These
persons shall aid the fire department in preplanning emergency
responses and identification of the locations where hazardous
materials are located, and shall have access to Material Safety
Data Sheets and be knowledgeable in the site emergency
response procedures.
407.5 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement. Where
required by the fire code official, each application for a permit
shall include a Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement
(HMIS) in accordance with Section 2701.5.2.
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EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
407.6 Hazardous Materials Management Plan. Where
required by the fire code official, each apphcation for a permit
shall include a Hazardous Materials Management Plan
(HMMP) in accordance with Section 2701.5.1. The fire code
official is authorized to accept a similar plan required by other
regulations.
407.7 Facility closure plans. The permit holder or applicant
shall submit to the fire code official a facility closure plan in
accordance with Section 2701.6.3 to terminate storage, dis-
pensing, handling or use of hazardous materials.
SECTION 408
USE AND OCCUPANCY-RELATED REQUIREMENTS
408.1 General. In addition to the other requirements of this
chapter, the provisions of this section are applicable to specific
occupancies listed herein.
408.2 Group A occupancies. Group A occupancies shall com-
ply with the requirements of Sections 408.2.1 and 408.2.2 and
Sections 401 through 406.
408.2.1 Seating plan. The fire safety and evacuation plans
for assembly occupancies shall include the information
required by Section 404.3 and a detailed seating plan, occu-
pant load, and occupant load limit. Deviations from the
approved plans shall be allowed provided the occupant load
limit for the occupancy is not exceeded and the aisles and
exit accessways remain unobstructed.
408.2.2 Announcements. In theaters, motion picture the-
aters, auditoriums and similar assembly occupancies in
Group A used for noncontinuous programs, an audible
announcement shall be made not more than 10 minutes prior
to the start of each program to notify the occupants of the
location of the exits to be used in the event of a fire or other
emergency.
Exception: In motion picture theaters, the announce-
ment is allowed to be projected upon the screen in a man-
ner approved by the fire code official.
408.3 Group E occupancies and Group R-2 college and uni-
versity buildings. Group E occupancies shall comply with the
requirements of Sections 408 .3.1 through 408 .3 .4 and Sections
401 through 406. Group R-2 college and university buildings
shall comply with the requirements of Sections 408.3.1 and
408.3.3 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.3.1 First emergency evacuation drill. The first emer-
gency evacuation drill of each school year shall be con-
ducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.
408.3.2 Emergency evacuation drill deferral. In severe
climates, the fire code official shall have the authority to
modify the emergency evacuation drill frequency specified
in Section 405.2.
408.3.3 Time of day. Emergency evacuation drills shall be
conducted at different hours of the day or evening, during
the changing of classes, when the school is at assembly, dur-
ing the recess or gymnastic periods, or during other times to
avoid distinction between drills and actual fires. In Group
R-2 college and university buildings, one required drill shall I
be held during hours after sunset or before sunrise. I(
408.3.4 Assembly points. Outdoor assembly areas shall be
designated and shall be located a safe distance from the
building being evacuated so as to avoid interference with
fire department operations. The assembly areas shall be
arranged to keep each class separate to provide accountabil-
ity of all individuals.
408.4 Group H-5 occupancies. Group H-5 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.4.1 through
408.4.4 and Sections 401 through 407.
408.4.1 Plans and diagrams. In addition to the require-
ments of Section 404 and Section 407.6, plans and diagrams
shall be maintained in approved locations indicating the
approximate plan for each area, the amount and type of
HPM stored, handled and used, locations of shutoff valves
for HPM supply piping, emergency telephone locations and
locations of exits.
408.4.2 Plan updating. The plans and diagrams required by
Section 408.4.1 shall be maintained up to date and the fire
code official and fire department shall be informed of all
major changes.
408.4.3 Emergency response team. Responsible persons
shall be designated the on-site emergency response team
and trained to be liaison personnel for the fire department.
These persons shall aid the fire department in preplanning
emergency responses, identifying locations where HPM is
stored, handled and used, and be familiar with the chemical
nature of such material. An adequate number of personnel
for each work shift shall be designated.
408.4.4 Emergency drills. Emergency drills of the on-site
emergency response team shall be conducted on a regular
basis but not less than once every three months. Records of
drills conducted shall be maintained.
408.5 Group I-l occupancies. Group I-l occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.5.1 through
408.5.5 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.5.1 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety
and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include
special staff actions including fire protection procedures
necessary for residents and shall be amended or revised
upon admission of any resident with unusual needs.
408.5.2 Staff training. Employees shall be periodically
instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibil-
ities under the plan. Such instruction shall be reviewed by
the staff at least every two months. A copy of the plan shall
be readily available at all times within the facility.
408.5.3 Resident training. Residents capable of assisting
in their own evacuation shall be trained in the proper actions
to take in the event of a fire. The training shall include
actions to take if the primary escape route is blocked. Where
the resident is given rehabilitation or habilitation training,
training in fire prevention and actions to take in the event of
a fire shall be a part of the rehabilitation training program.
Residents shall be trained to assist each other in case of fire
38
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
to the extent their physical and mental abilities permit them
to do so without additional personal risk.
408.5.4 Drill frequency. Emergency evacuation drills shall
be conducted at least six times per year, two times per year
on each shift. Twelve drills shall be conducted in the first
year of operation. Drills are not required to comply with the
time requirements of Section 405.4.
408.5.5 Resident participation. Emergency evacuation
drills shall involve the actual evacuation of residents to a
selected assembly point.
408.6 Group 1-2 occupancies. Group 1-2 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.6.1 and 408.6.2
and Sections 401 through 406. Drills are not required to com-
ply with the time requirements of Section 405.4.
408.6.1 Evacuation not required. During emergency
evacuation drills, the movement of patients to safe areas or
to the exterior of the building is not required.
408.6.2 Coded alarm signal. When emergency evacuation
drills are conducted after visiting hours or when patients or
residents are expected to be asleep, a coded announcement
is allowed instead of audible alarms.
408.7 Group 1-3 occupancies. Group 1-3 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.7.1 through
408.7.4 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.7.1 Employee training. Employees shall be instructed
in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers and other
manual fire suppression equipment. Training of new staff
shall be provided promptly upon entrance on duty.
Refresher training shall be provided at least annually.
408.7.2 Staffing. Group 1-3 occupancies shall be provided
with 24-hour staffing. Staff shall be within three floors or
300 feet (91 440 mm) horizontal distance of the access door
of each resident housing area. In Use Conditions 3, 4 and 5,
as defined in Chapter 2, the arrangement shall be such that
the staff involved can start release of locks necessary for
emergency evacuation or rescue and initiate other necessary
emergency actions within 2 minutes of an alarm.
Exception: Staff shall not be required to be within three
floors or 300 feet (9144 mm) in areas in which all locks
are unlocked remotely and automatically in accordance
with Section 408.4 of the International Building Code.
408.7.3 Notification. Provisions shall be made for residents
in Use Conditions 3, 4 and 5, as defined in Chapter 2, to
readily notify staff of an emergency.
408.7.4 Keys. Keys necessary for unlocking doors installed
in a means of egress shall be individually identifiable by
both touch and sight.
408.8 Group R-1 occupancies. Group R-1 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.8.1 through
408.8.3 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.8.1 Evacuation diagrams. A diagram depicting two
evacuation routes shall be posted on or immediately adja-
cent to every required egress door from each hotel, motel or
dormitory sleeping unit.
408.8.2 Emergency duties. Upon discovery of a fire or sus-
pected fire, hotel, motel and dormitory employees shall per-
form the following duties:
1 . Activate the fire alarm system, where provided.
2. Notify the public fire department.
3. Take other action as previously instructed.
408.8.3 Fire safety and evacuation instructions. Informa-
tion shall be provided in the fire safety and evacuation plan
required by Section 404 to allow guests to decide whether to
evacuate to the outside, evacuate to an area of refuge, remain
in place, or any combination of the three.
408.9 Group R-2 occupancies. Group R-2 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.9.1 through
408.9.3 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.9.1 Emergency guide. A fire emergency guide shall be
provided which describes the location, function and use of
fire protection equipment and appliances accessible to resi-
dents, including fire alarm systems, smoke alarms, and por-
table fire extinguishers. The guide shall also include an
emergency evacuation plan for each dwelling unit.
408.9.2 Maintenance. Emergency guides shall be reviewed
and approved in accordance with Section 401.2.
408.9.3 Distribution. A copy of the emergency guide shall
be given to each tenant prior to initial occupancy.
408.10 Group R-4 occupancies. Group R-4 occupancies shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 408.10.1 through
408.10.5 and Sections 401 through 406.
408.10.1 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety
and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include
special staff actions, including fire protection procedures
necessary for residents, and shall be amended or revised
upon admission of a resident with unusual needs.
408.10.2 Staff training. Employees shall be periodically
instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibil-
ities under the plan. Such instruction shall be reviewed by
the staff at least every two months. A copy of the plan shall
be readily available at all times within the facility.
408.10.3 Resident training. Residents capable of assisting
in their own evacuation shall be trained in the proper actions
to take in the event of a fire. The training shall include
actions to take if the primary escape route is blocked. Where
the resident is given rehabilitation or habilitation training,
training in fire prevention and actions to take in the event of
a fire shall be a part of the rehabilitation training program.
Residents shall be trained to assist each other in case of fire
to the extent their physical and mental abilities permit them
to do so without additional personal risk.
408.10.4 Drill frequency. Emergency evacuation drills
shall be conducted at least six times per year, two times per
year on each shift. Twelve drills shall be conducted in the
first year of operation. Drills are not required to comply with
the time requirements of Section 405.4.
408.10.5 Resident participation. Emergency evacuation
drills shall involve the actual evacuation of residents to a
selected assembly point and shall provide residents with
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
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EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
experience in exiting through all required exits. All required 4. Kept free from combustible waste and be broom-
exits shall be used during emergency evacuation drills. swept clean.
Exception: Actual exiting from windows shall not be
required. Opening the window and signaling for help
shall be an acceptable alternative.
408.11 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings shall
comply with the provisions of Sections 408.11.1 through
408.11.3.
408.11.1 Lease plan. A lease plan shall be prepared for
each covered mall building. The plan shall include the fol-
lowing information in addition to that required by Section
404.3.2:
1 . Each occupancy, including identification of tenant.
2. Exits from each tenant space.
3. Fire protection features, including the following:
3.1. Fire department connections.
3.2. Fire command center.
3.3. Smoke management system controls.
3.4. Elevators and elevator controls.
3.5. Hose valves outlets.
3.6. Sprinkler and standpipe control valves.
3.7. Automatic fire-extinguishing system areas.
3.8. Automatic fire detector zones.
3.9. Fire barriers.
408.11.1.1 Approval. The lease plan shall be submitted
to the fire code official for approval, and shall be main-
tained on site for immediate reference by responding fire
service personnel.
408.11.1.2 Revisions. The lease plans shall be revised
annually or as often as necessary to keep them current.
Modifications or changes in tenants or occupancies shall
not be made without prior approval of the fire code offi-
cial and building official.
408.11.2 Tenant identification. Each occupied tenant
space provided with a secondary exit to the exterior or exit
corridor shall be provided with tenant identification by busi-
ness name and/or address. Letters and numbers shall be
posted on the corridor side of the door, be plainly legible and
shall contrast with their background.
Exception: Tenant identification is not required for
anchor stores.
408.11.3 Maintenance. Unoccupied tenant spaces shall be:
1. Kept free from the storage of any materials.
2. Separated from the remainder of the building by parti-
tions of at least 0.5-inch-thick (12.7 mm) gypsum
board or an approved equivalent to the underside of
the ceiling of the adjoining tenant spaces.
3. Without doors or other access openings other than
one door that shall be kept key locked in the closed
position except during that time when opened for
inspection.
40 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
CHAPTER 5
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
SECTION 501
GENERAL
501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and
premises shall comply with this chapter.
501.2 Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
501.3 Construction documents. Construction documents for
proposed fire apparatus access, location of fire lanes and con-
struction documents and hydraulic calculations for fire hydrant
systems shall be submitted to the fire department for review
and approval prior to construction.
501.4 Timing of installation. When fire apparatus access
roads or a water supply for fire protection is required to be
installed, such protection shall be installed and made service-
able prior to and during the time of construction except when
approved alternative methods of protection are provided. Tem-
porary street signs shall be installed at each street intersection
when construction of new roadways allows passage by vehi-
cles in accordance with Section 505.2.
SECTION 502
DEFINITIONS
502.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD. A road that provides
fire apparatus access from a fire station to a facility, building or
portion thereof. This is a general term inclusive of all other
terms such as fire lane, public street, private street, parking lot
lane and access roadway.
FIRE COMMAND CENTER. The principal attended or
unattended location where the status of the detection, alarm
communications and control systems is displayed, and from
which the system(s) can be manually controlled.
FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY. A limited issue key
of special or controlled design to be carried by fire department
officials in command which will open key boxes on specified
properties.
FIRE LANE. A road or other passageway developed to allow
the passage of fire apparatus. A fire lane is not necessarily
intended for vehicular traffic other than fire apparatus.
KEY BOX. A secure device with a lock operable only by a fire
department master key, and containing building entry keys and
other keys that may be required for access in an emergency.
SECTION 503
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1
through 503.1.3.
503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus
access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or
portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or
within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall
comply with the requirements of this section and shall
extend to within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the
facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story
of the building as measured by an approved route around the
exterior of the building or facility.
Exception: The fire code official is authorized to
increase the dimension of 150 feet (45 720 mm) where:
1. The building is equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or
903.3.1.3.
2. Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed
because of location on property, topography,
waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar
conditions, and an approved alternative means of
fire protection is provided.
3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group
U occupancies.
503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is autho-
rized to require more than one fire apparatus access road
based on the potential for impairment of a single road by
vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions
or other factors that could limit access.
503.1.3 High-piled storage. Fire department vehicle access
to buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall
comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 23.
503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1
through 503.2.7.
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have
an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm),
except for approved security gates in accordance with Sec-
tion 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less
than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the
authority to require an increase in the minimum access
widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue opera-
tions.
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
41
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-
weather driving capabilities.
503.2.4 Tbrning radius. The required turning radius of a
fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire
code official.
503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in
excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided
with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.
503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or
an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the
bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance
with AASHTO HB-17. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall
be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed
loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at
both entrances to bridges when required by the fire code
official. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency
vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed
for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall
be installed and maintained when required by the fire code
official.
503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road
shall be within the limits established by the fire code official
based on the fire department's apparatus.
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official,
approved signs or other approved notices shall be provided for
fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the
obstruction thereof. Signs or notices shall be maintained in a
clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or
repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire appa-
ratus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner,
including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and
clearances established in Section 503.2.1 shall be maintained
at all times.
503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is
authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates
or other approved barricades across fire apparatus access
roads, trails or other accessways, not including public streets,
alleys or highways.
503.5.1 Secured gates and barricades. When required,
gates and barricades shall be secured in an approved man-
ner. Roads, trails and other accessways that have been
closed and obstructed in the manner prescribed by Section
503.5 shall not be trespassed on or used unless authorized
by the owner and the fire code official.
Exception: The restriction on use shall not apply to pub-
lic officers acting within the scope of duty.
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a
fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire chief.
Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved
means of emergency operation. The security gates and the
emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all
times.
SECTION 504
ACCESS TO BUILDING OPENINGS AND ROOFS
504.1 Required access. Exterior doors and openings required
by this code or the International Building Code shall be main-
tained readily accessible for emergency access by the fire
department. An approved access walkway leading from fire
apparatus access roads to exterior openings shall be provided
when required by the fire code official.
504.2 Maintenance of exterior doors and openings. Exterior
doors and their function shall not be eliminated without prior
approval. Exterior doors that have been rendered nonfunc-
tional and that retain a functional door exterior appearance
shall have a sign affixed to the exterior side of the door with the
words THIS DOOR BLOCKED. The sign shall consist of let-
ters having a principal stroke of not less than 0.75 inch (19.1
mm) wide and at least 6 inches (152 mm) high on a contrasting
background. Required fire department access doors shall not
be obstructed or eliminated. Exit and exit access doors shall
comply with Chapter 10. Access doors for high-piled combus-
tible storage shall comply with Section 2306.6. 1 .
504.3 Stairway access to roof. New buildings four or more
stories in height, except those with a roof slope greater than
four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3 percent slope),
shall be provided with a stairway to the roof Stairway access to
the roof shall be in accordance with Section 1009.12. Such
stairway shall be marked at street and floor levels with a sign
indicating that the stairway continues to the roof. Where roofs
are used for roof gardens or for other purposes, stairways shall
be provided as required for such occupancy classification.
SECTION 505
PREMISES IDENTIFICATION
505.1 Address numbers. New and existing buildings shall
have approved address numbers, building numbers or
approved building identification placed in a position that is
plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the
property. These numbers shall contrast with their background.
Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters.
Numbers shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) high with a
minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm).
505.2 Street or road signs. Streets and roads shall be identified
with approved signs. Temporary signs shall be installed at each
street intersection when construction of new roadways allows
passage by vehicles. Signs shall be of an approved size,
weather resistant and be maintained until replaced by perma-
nent signs.
SECTION 506
KEY BOXES
506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure
or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where
immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting
purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key
box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall
be of an approved type and shall contain keys to gain necessary
access as required by the fire code official.
42
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
506.1.1 Locks. An approved lock shall be installed on gates
or similar barriers when required by the fire code official.
506.2 Key box maintenance. The operator of the building
shall immediately notify the fire code official and provide the
new key when a lock is changed or rekeyed. The key to such
lock shall be secured in the key box.
SECTION 507
HAZARDS TO FIRE FIGHTERS
507.1 Trapdoors to be closed. Trapdoors and scuttle covers,
other than those that are within a dwelling unit or automatically
operated, shall be kept closed at all times except when in use.
507.2 Shaftway markings. Vertical shafts shall be identified
as required by this section.
507.2.1 Exterior access to shaftways. Outside openings
accessible to the fire department and which open directly on
a hoistway or shaftway communicating between two or
more floors in a building shall be plainly marked with the
word SHAFTWAY in red letters at least 6 inches (152 mm)
high on a white background. Such warning signs shall be
placed so as to be readily discernible from the outside of the
building.
507.2.2 Interior access to shaftways. Door or window
openings to a hoistway or shaftway from the interior of the
building shall be plainly marked with the word
SHAFTWAY in red letters at least 6 inches (152 mm) high
on a white background. Such warning signs shall be placed
so as to be readily discernible.
Exception: Marking shall not be required on shaftway
openings which are readily discernible as openings onto
a shaftway by the construction or arrangement.
507.3 Pitfalls. The intentional design or alteration of buildings
to disable, injure, maim or kill intruders is prohibited. No per-
son shall install and use firearms, sharp or pointed objects,
razor wire, explosives, flammable or combustible liquid con-
tainers, or dispensers containing highly toxic, toxic, irritant or
other hazardous materials in a manner which may passively or
actively disable, injure, maim or kill a fire fighter who forcibly
enters a building for the purpose of controlling or extinguishing
a fire, rescuing trapped occupants or rendering other emer-
gency assistance.
SECTION 508
FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES
508.1 Required water supply. An approved water supply
capable of supplying the required fire flow for fire protection
shall be provided to premises upon which facilities, buildings
or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into
or within the jurisdiction.
508.2 Type of water supply. A water supply shall consist of
reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains or other
fixed systems capable of providing the required fire flow.
508.2.1 Private fire service mains. Private fire service
mains and appurtenances shall be installed in accordance
with NFPA 24.
508.2.2 Water tanks. Water tanks for private fire protection
shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22.
508.3 Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or por-
tions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an
approved method.
508.4 Water supply test. The fire code official shall be noti-
fied prior to the water supply test. Water supply tests shall be
witnessed by the fire code official or approved documentation
of the test shall be provided to the fire code official prior to final
approval of the water supply system.
508.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall com-
ply with Sections 508.5.1 through 508.5.6.
508.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or
building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the
jurisdiction is more than 400 feet (122 m) from a hydrant on
a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an approved
route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site
fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by
the fire code official.
Exceptions:
1. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, the dis-
tance requirement shall be 600 feet (183 m).
2. For buildings equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2,
the distance requirement shall be 600 feet (183 m).
508.5.2 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire
hydrant systems shall be subject to periodic tests as required
by the fire code official. Fire hydrant systems shall be main-
tained in an operative condition at all times and shall be
repaired where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and
servicing shall comply with approved standards.
508.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks. Pri-
vate fire service mains and water tanks shall be periodically
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with NFPA
25 at the following intervals:
1. Private fire hydrants (all types): Inspection annually
and after each operation; flow test and maintenance
annually.
2. Fire service main piping: Inspection of exposed,
annually; flow test every 5 years.
3. Fire service main piping strainers: Inspection and
maintenance after each use.
508.5.4 Obstruction. Posts, fences, vehicles, growth, trash,
storage and other materials or objects shall not be placed or
kept near fire hydrants, fire department inlet connections or
fire protection system control valves in a manner that would
prevent such equipment or fire hydrants from being imme-
diately discernible. The fire department shall not be deterred
or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protec-
tion equipment or fire hydrants.
508.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3 -foot (914 mm)
clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of
fire hydrants except as otherwise required or approved.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
43
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
508.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are sub-
ject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other
approved means shall comply with Section 312.
SECTION 509
FIRE COMMAND CENTER
509.1 Features. Where required by other sections of this code
and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the
International Building Code, a fire command center for fire
department operations shall be provided. The location and
accessibility of the fire command center shall be approved by
the fire department. The fire command center shall be sepa-
rated from the remainder of the building by not less than a 1-
hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 706 of
the International Building Code or horizontal assembly con-
structed in accordance with Section 711 of the International
Building Code, or both. The room shall be a minimum of 96
square feet (9 m^) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438
mm). A layout of the fire command center and all features
required by this section to be contained therein shall be submit-
ted for approval prior to installation. The fire command center
shall comply with NFPA 72 and shall contain the following fea-
tures:
1. The emergency voice/alarm communication system
unit.
2. The fire department communications system.
3. Fire-detection and alarm system annunciator system.
4. Annunciator visually indicating the location of the ele-
vators and whether they are operational.
5. Status indicators and controls for air-handling systems.
6. The fire-fighter's control panel required by Section
909. 1 6 for smoke control systems installed in the build-
ing.
7 . Controls for unlocking stairway doors simultaneously .
8 . Sprinkler valve and water-flow detector display panels.
9. Emergency and standby power status indicators.
10. A telephone for fire department use with controlled
access to the public telephone system.
1 1 . Fire pump status indicators.
12. Schematic building plans indicating the typical floor
plan and detailing the building core, means of egress,
fire protection systems, fire-fighting equipment and
fire department access.
13. Work table.
14. Generator supervision devices, manual start and trans-
fer features.
15. Pubhc address system, where specifically required by
other sections of this code.
SECTION 510
FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT
510.1 Identification. Fire protection equipment shall be iden-
tified in an approved manner. Rooms containing controls for
air-conditioning systems, sprinkler risers and valves, or other
fire detection, suppression or control elements shall be identi-
fied for the use of the fire department. Approved signs required
to identify fire protection equipment and equipment location,
shall be constructed of durable materials, permanently
installed and readily visible.
44
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
•
CHAPTER 6
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
SECTION 601
GENERAL
601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the
installation, operation and maintenance of fuel-fired appli-
ances and heating systems, emergency and standby power sys-
tems, electrical systems and equipment, mechanical
refrigeration systems, elevator recall, stationary storage battery
systems and commercial kitchen hoods.
601.2 Permits. Permits shall be obtained for refrigeration sys-
tems and battery systems as set forth in Sections 105.6 and
105.7.
SECTION 602
DEFINITIONS
602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY LEAD ACID. A sys
tem which consists of three interconnected subsystems:
1 . A lead-acid battery.
2. A battery charger.
3. A collection of rectifiers, inverters, converters, and asso-
ciated electrical equipment as required for a particular
application.
BATTERY TYPES
Nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery. An alkaline storage bat-
tery in which the positive active material is nickel oxide, the
negative contains cadmium and the electrolyte is potassium
hydroxide.
Nonrecombinant battery. A storage battery in which,
under conditions of normal use, hydrogen and oxygen gas-
ses created by electrolysis are vented into the air outside of
the battery.
Recombinant battery. A storage battery in which, under
conditions of normal use, hydrogen and oxygen gases cre-
ated by electrolysis are converted back into water inside the
battery instead of venting into the air outside of the battery.
Stationary storage battery. A group of electrochemical
cells interconnected to supply a nominal voltage of DC
power to a suitably connected electrical load, designed for
service in a permanent location. The number of cells con-
nected in a series determines the nominal voltage rating of
the battery. The size of the cells determines the discharge
capacity of the entire battery. After discharge, it may be
restored to a fully charged condition by an electric current
flowing in a direction opposite to the flow of current when
the battery is discharged.
Valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery. A lead-acid
battery consisting of sealed cells furnished with a valve that
opens to vent the battery whenever the internal pressure of
the battery exceeds the ambient pressure by a set amount. In
VRLA batteries, the liquid electrolyte in the cells is immo-
bilized in an absorptive glass mat (AGM cells or batteries)
or by the addition of a gelling agent (gel cells or gelled bat-
teries).
Vented (Flooded) lead-acid battery. A lead-acid battery
consisting of cells that have electrodes immersed in liquid
electrolyte. Flooded lead-acid batteries have a provision for
the user to add water to the cell and are equipped with a
flame-arresting vent which permits the escape of hydrogen
and oxygen gas from the cell in a diffused manner such that
a spark, or other ignition source, outside the cell will not
ignite the gases inside the cell.
[M] COMMERCIAL COOKING APPLIANCES. Appli-
ances used in a commercial food service establishment for
heating or cooking food and which produce grease vapors,
steam, fumes, smoke or odors that are required to be removed
through a local exhaust ventilation system. Such appliances
include deep fat fryers; upright broilers; griddles; broilers;
steam-jacketed kettles; hot-top ranges; under-fired broilers
(charbroilers); ovens; barbecues; rotisseries; and similar appli-
ances. For the purpose of this definition, a food service estab-
lishment shall include any building or a portion thereof used for
the preparation and serving of food.
[M] HOOD. An air-intake device used to capture by entrap-
ment, impingement, adhesion or similar means, grease and
similar contaminants before they enter a duct system.
Type I. A kitchen hood for collecting and removing grease
vapors and smoke.
REFRIGERANT. The fluid used for heat transfer in a refrig-
erating system; the refrigerant absorbs heat and transfers it at a
higher temperature and a higher pressure, usually with a
change of state.
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM. A combination of intercon-
nected refrigerant-containing parts constituting one closed
refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant is circulated for the
purpose of extracting heat.
SECTION 603
FUEL-FIRED APPLIANCES
603.1 Installation. The installation of nonportable fuel gas
appliances and systems shall comply the International Fuel
Gas Code. The installation of all other fuel-fired appliances,
other than internal combustion engines, oil lamps and portable
devices such as blow torches, melting pots and weed burners,
shall comply with this section and the International Mechani-
cal Code.
603.1.1 Manufacturer's instructions. The installation
shall be made in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions and applicable federal, state, and local rules and
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
45
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
regulations. Where it becomes necessary to change, modify,
or alter a manufacturer's instructions in any way, written
approval shall first be obtained from the manufacturer.
603.1.2 Approval. The design, construction and installa-
tion of fuel-fired appliances shall be in accordance with the
International Fuel Gas Code and the International
Mechanical Code.
603.1.3 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wir-
ing and equipment used in connection with oil-burning
equipment shall be installed and maintained in accordance
with Section 605 and the ICC Electrical Code.
603.1.4 Fuel oil. The grade of fuel oil used in a burner shall
be that for which the burner is approved and as stipulated by
the burner manufacturer. Oil containing gasoline shall not
be used. Waste crankcase oil shall be an acceptable fuel in
Group F, M and S occupancies, when utilized in equipment
listed for use with waste oil and when such equipment is
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
and the terms of its listing.
603.1.5 Access. The installation shall be readily accessible
for cleaning hot surfaces; removing burners; replacing
motors, controls, air filters, chimney connectors, draft regu-
lators, and other working parts; and for adjusting, cleaning
and lubricating parts.
603.1.6 Testing, diagrams and instructions. After instal-
lation of the oil-burning equipment, operation and combus-
tion performance tests shall be conducted to determine that
the burner is in proper operating condition and that all
accessory equipment, controls, and safety devices function
properly.
603.1.6.1 Diagrams. Contractors instalHng industrial
oil-burning systems shall furnish not less than two copies
of diagrams showing the main oil lines and controlling
valves, one copy of which shall be posted at the oil-burn-
ing equipment and another at an approved location that
will be accessible in case of emergency.
603.1.6.2 Instructions. After completing the installa-
tion, the installer shall instruct the owner or operator in
the proper operation of the equipment. The installer shall
also furnish the owner or operator with the name and
telephone number of persons to contact for technical
information or assistance and routine or emergency ser-
vices.
603.1.7 Clearances. Working clearances between oil-fired
appliances and electrical panelboards and equipment shall
be in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code. Clearances
between oil-fired equipment and oil supply tanks shall be in
accordance with NFPA 3 1 .
[B, M, FG] 603.2 Chimneys. Masonry chimneys shall be con-
structed in accordance with the International Building Code.
Factory-built chimneys shall be installed in accordance with
the International Mechanical Code. Metal chimneys shall be
constructed and installed in accordance with NFPA 211.
603.3 Fuel oil storage systems. Fuel oil storage systems shall
be installed in accordance with this code. Fuel oil piping sys-
tems shall be installed in accordance with the International
Mechanical Code.
603.3.1 Maximum outside fuel oil storage above ground.
Where connected to a fuel-oil piping system, the maximum
amount of fuel oil storage allowed outside above ground
without additional protection shall be 660 gallons (2498 L).
The storage of fuel oil above ground in quantities exceeding
660 gallons (2498 L) shall comply with NFPA 31.
603.3.2 Maximum inside fuel oil storage. Where con-
nected to a fuel-oil piping system, the maximum amount of
fuel oil storage allowed inside any building shall be 660 gal-
lons (2498 L). Where the amount of fuel oil stored inside a
building exceeds 660 gallons (2498 L), the storage area
shall be in compliance with the International Building
Code.
603.3.3 Underground storage of fuel oil. The storage of
fuel oil in underground storage tanks shall comply with
NFPA 31.
603.4 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented
fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupan-
cies in Groups A, E, I, R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4.
Exception: Listed and approved unvented fuel-fired heaters
in one- and two-family dwellings.
603.4.1 Prohibited locations. Unvented fuel-fired heating
equipment shall not be located in, or obtain combustion air
from, any of the following rooms or spaces: sleeping rooms,
bathrooms, toilet rooms or storage closets.
603.5 Heating appliances. Heating appliances shall be listed
and shall comply with this section.
603.5.1 Guard against contact. The heating element or
combustion chamber shall be permanently guarded so as to
prevent accidental contact by persons or material.
603.5.2 Heating appliance installation and maintenance.
Heating appliances shall be installed and maintained in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, the Inter-
national Building Code, the International Mechanical
Code, the International Fuel Gas Code and the ICC Electri-
cal Code.
603.6 Chimneys and appliances. Chimneys, incinerators,
smokestacks or similar devices for conveying smoke or hot
gases to the outer air and the stoves, furnaces, fireboxes or boil-
ers to which such devices are connected, shall be maintained so
as not to create a fire hazard.
603.6.1 Masonry chimneys. Masonry chimneys that, upon
inspection, are found to be without a flue liner and that have
open mortar joints which will permit smoke or gases to bed
as to be dangerous, shall be repaired or relined with a listed
chimne discharged into the building, or which are crackey
liner system installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions or a flue lining system installed in
accordance with the requirements of the International
Building Code and appropriate for the intended class of
chimney service.
603.6.2 Metal chimneys. Metal chimneys which are cor-
roded or improperly supported shall be repaired or replaced.
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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603.6.3 Decorative shrouds. Decorative shrouds installed
at the termination of factory-built chimneys shall be
removed except where such shrouds are listed and labeled
for use with the specific factory-built chimney system and
are installed in accordance with the chimney manufacturer's
installation instructions.
603.6.4 Factory-built chimneys. Existing factory-built
chimneys that are damaged, corroded or improperly sup-
ported shall be repaired or replaced.
603.6.5 Connectors. Existing chimney and vent connectors
that are damaged, corroded or improperly supported shall
be repaired or replaced.
603.7 Discontinuing operation of unsafe heating appli-
ances. The fire code official is authorized to order that mea-
sures be taken to prevent the operation of any existing stove,
oven, furnace, incinerator, boiler or any other heat-producing
device or appliance found to be defective or in violation of code
requirements for existing appliances after giving notice to this
effect to any person, owner, firm or agent or operator in charge
of the same. The fire code official is authorized to take mea-
sures to prevent the operation of any device or appliance with-
out notice when inspection shows the existence of an
immediate fire hazard or when imperiling human life. The
defective device shall remain withdrawn from service until all
necessary repairs or alterations have been made.
603.7.1 Unauthorized operation. It shall be a violation of
this code for any person, user, firm or agent to continue the
utilization of any device or appliance (the operation of
which has been discontinued or ordered discontinued in
accordance with Section 603.7), unless written authority to
resume operation is given by the fire code official. Remov-
ing or breaking the means by which operation of the device
is prevented shall be a violation of this code.
603.8 Incinerators. Commercial, industrial and residen-
fial-type incinerators and chimneys shall be constructed in
accordance with the International Building Code, the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical Code.
603.8.1 Residential incinerators. Residential incinerators
shall be of an approved type.
603.8.2 Spark arrestor. Incinerators shall be equipped with
an effective means for arresting sparks.
603.8.3 Restrictions. Where the fire code official deter-
mines that burning in incinerators located within 500 feet
(152 m) of mountainous, brush or grass-covered areas will
create an undue fire hazard because of atmospheric condi-
tions, such burning shall be prohibited.
603.8.4 Time of burning. Burning shall take place only
during approved hours.
603.8.5 Discontinuance. The fire code official is autho-
rized to require incinerator use to be discontinued immedi-
ately if the fire code official determines that smoke
emissions are offensive to occupants of surrounding prop-
erty or if the use of incinerators is determined by the fire
code official to constitute a hazardous condition.
603.9 Gas meters. Above-ground gas meters, regulators and
piping subject to damage shall be protected by a barrier com-
plying with Section 312 or otherwise protected in an approved
manner.
SECTION 604
EMERGENCY AND STANDBY POWER SYSTEMS
604.1 Installation. Emergency and standby power systems
required by this code or the International Building Code shall I
be installed in accordance with this code, NFR\ 1 10 and NFR\ |
111. Existing installations shall be maintained in accordance
with the original approval.
604.1.1 Stationary generators. Stationary emergency and
standby power generators required by this code shall be
listed in accordance with UL 2200.
604.2 Where required. Emergency and standby power sys-
tems shall be provided where required by Sections 604.2.1
through 604.2.19.4.
604.2.1 Group A occupancies. Emergency power shall be
provided for emergency voice/alarm communication sys-
tems in Group A occupancies in accordance with Section
907.2.12.2.
604.2.2 Smoke control systems. Standby power shall be
provided for smoke control systems in accordance with Sec-
tion 909.11.
604.2.3 Exit signs. Emergency power shall be provided for
exit signs in accordance with Section 1011.5.3
604.2.4 Means of egress illumination. Emergency power
shall be provided for means of egress illumination in accor-
dance with Section 1006.3.
604.2.5 Accessible means of egress elevators. Standby I
power shall be provided for elevators that are part of an |
accessible means of egress in accordance with Section
1007.4.
604.2.6 Accessible means of egress platform lifts.
Standby power in accordance with this section or ASME
A 18.1 shall be provided for platform lifts that are part of an
accessible means of egress in accordance with Section
1007.5.
604.2.7 Horizontal sliding doors. Standby power shall be
provided for horizontal sliding doors in accordance with
Section 1008.1.3.3.
604.2.8 Semiconductor fabrication facilities. Emergency
power shall be provided for semiconductor fabrication
facilities in accordance with Section 1803.15.
604.2.9 Membrane structures. Emergency power shall be
provided for exit signs in temporary tents and membrane
structures in accordance with Section 2403.12.6.1. Standby
power shall be provided for auxiliary inflation systems in
permanent membrane structures in accordance with the
International Building Code.
604.2.10 Hazardous materials. Emergency or standby
power shall be provided in occupancies with hazardous
materials in accordance with Sections 2704.7 and 2705. 1 .5.
604.2.11 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Emergency
power shall be provided for occupancies with highly toxic
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
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BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
or toxic materials in accordance with Sections 3704.2.2.8
and 3704.3.2.6.
604.2.12 Organic peroxides. Standby power shall be pro-
vided for occupancies with organic peroxides in accordance
with Section 3904.1.11.
604.2.13 Pyroplioric materials. Emergency power shall be
provided for occupancies with silane gas in accordance with
Sections 4106.2.3 and 4106.4.3.
604.2.14 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings
exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m^) shall be provided
with standby power systems which are capable of operating
the emergency voice/alarm communication.
604.2.15 High-rise buildings. Standby power, light and
emergency systems in high-rise buildings shall comply with
the requirements of Sections 604.2.15.1 through
604.2.15.3.
604.2.15.1 Standby power. A standby power system
shall be provided. Where the standby system is a genera-
tor set inside a building, the system shall be located in a
separate room enclosed with 2-hour fire barriers or hori-
zontal assemblies constructed in accordance with the
International Building Code, or both. System supervi-
sion with manual start and transfer features shall be pro-
vided at the fire command center.
604.2.15.1.1 Fuel supply. An on-premises fuel sup-
ply, sufficient for not less than 2-hour full-demand
operation of the system, shall be provided.
Exception: When approved, the system shall be
allowed to be supplied by natural gas pipelines.
604.2.15.1.2 Capacity. The standby system shall
have a capacity and rating that supplies all equipment
required to be operational at the same time. The gen-
erating capacity is not required to be sized to operate
all of the connected electrical equipment simulta-
neously.
604.2.15.1.3 Connected facilities. Power and light-
ing facilities for the fire command center and eleva-
tors specified in Sections 403.8 and 403.9 of the
International Building Code, as applicable, and elec-
trically powered fire pumps required to maintain pres-
sure, shall be transferable to the standby source.
Standby power shall be provided for at least one ele-
vator to serve all floors and be transferable to any ele-
vator.
604.2.15.2 Separate circuits and luminaires. Separate
lighting circuits and luminaires shall be required to pro-
vide sufficient light with an intensity of not less than 1
foot-candle (11 lux) measured at floor level in all means
of egress corridors, stairways, smokeproof enclosures,
elevator cars and lobbies, and other areas that are clearly
a part of the escape route.
604.2.15.2.1 Other circuits. Circuits supplying
lighting for the fire command center and mechanical
equipment rooms shall be transferable to the standby
source.
604.2.15.3 Emergency systems. Exit signs, exit illumi-
nation as required by Chapter 10, and elevator car light-
ing are classified as emergency systems and shall operate
within 10 seconds of failure of the normal power supply
and shall be capable of being transferred to the standby
source.
Exception: Exit sign, exit and means of egress illumi-
nation are permitted to be powered by a standby
source in buildings of Group F and S occupancies.
604.2.16 Underground buildings. Emergency and standby
power systems in underground buildings covered in Chap-
ter 4 of the International Building Code shall comply with
Sections 604.2.16.1 and 604.2.16.2.
604.2.16.1 Standby power. A standby power system
complying with the ICC Electrical Code shall be pro-
vided for standby power loads as specified in Section
604.2.16.1.1.
[B] 604.2.16.1.1 Standby power loads. The follow-
ing loads are classified as standby power loads:
1 . Smoke control system.
2. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equip-
ment for smokeproof enclosures.
3. Fire pumps.
4. Standby power shall be provided for elevators
in accordance with Section 3003 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
[B] 604.2.16.1.2 Pickup time. The standby power
system shall pick up its connected loads within 60
seconds of failure of the normal power supply.
604.2.16.2 Emergency power. An emergency power
system complying with the ICC Electrical Code shall be
provided for emergency power loads as specified in Sec-
tion 604.2.15.2.1.
604.2.16.2.1 Emergency power loads. The follow-
ing loads are classified as emergency power loads:
1. Emergency voice/alarm communication sys-
tems.
2. Fire alarm systems.
3. Automatic fire detection systems.
4. Elevator car lighting.
5 . Means of egress lighting and exit sign illumina-
tion as required by Chapter 10.
604.2.17 Group 1-3 occupancies. Power-operated sliding
doors or power-operated locks for swinging doors in Group
1-3 occupancies shall be operable by a manual release mech-
anism at the door, and either emergency power or a remote
mechanical operating release shall be provided.
Exception: Emergency power is not required in facilities
where provisions for remote locking and unlocking of
occupied rooms in Occupancy Condition 4 are not
required as set forth in the International Building Code.
604.2.18 Airport traffic control towers. A standby power
system shall be provided in airport traffic control towers
48
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
more than 65 feet (19 812 mm) in height. Power shall be
provided to the following equipment:
1 . Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment and
lighting.
2. Elevator operating equipment.
3. Fire alarm and smoke detection systems.
604.2.19 Elevators. In buildings and structures where
standby power is required or furnished to operate an eleva-
tor, the operation shall be in accordance with Sections
604.2.19.1 through 604.2.19.4.
604.2.19.1 Manual transfer. Standby power shall be
manually transferable to all elevators in each bank.
604.2.19.2 One elevator. Where only one elevator is
installed, the elevator shall automatically transfer to
standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal
power.
604.2.19.3 Two or more elevators. Where two or more
elevators are controlled by a common operating system,
all elevators shall automatically transfer to standby
power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power
where the standby power source is of sufficient capacity
to operate all elevators at the same time. Where the
standby power source is not of sufficient capacity to
operate all elevators at the same time, all elevators shall
transfer to standby power in sequence, return to the des-
ignated landing and disconnect from the standby power
source. After all elevators have been returned to the des-
ignated level, at least one elevator shall remain operable
from the standby power source.
604.2.19.4 Venting. Where standby power is connected
to elevators, the machine room ventilation or air condi-
tioning shall be connected to the standby power source.
604.3 Maintenance. Emergency and standby power systems
shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 110 and NFPA
111 such that the system is capable of supplying service within
the time specified for the type and duration required.
604.3.1 Schedule. Inspection, testing and maintenance of
emergency and standby power systems shall be in accor-
dance with an approved schedule established upon comple-
tion and approval of the system installation.
604.3.2 Written record. Written records of the inspection,
testing and maintenance of emergency and standby power
systems shall include the date of service, name of the servic-
ing technician, a summary of conditions noted and a
detailed description of any conditions requiring correction
and what corrective action was taken. Such records shall be
kept on the premises served by the emergency or standby
power system and be available for inspection by the fire
code official.
604.3.3 Switch maintenance. Emergency and standby
power system transfer switches shall be included in the
inspection, testing and maintenance schedule required by
Section 604.3.1. Transfer switches shall be maintained free
from accumulated dust and dirt. Inspection shall include
examination of the transfer switch contacts for evidence of
deterioration. When evidence of contact deterioration is
detected, the contacts shall be replaced in accordance with
the transfer switch manufacturer's instructions.
604.4 Operational inspection and testing. Emergency power
systems, including all appurtenant components shall be
inspected and tested under load in accordance with NFPA 110
and NFPA 111.
Exception: Where the emergency power system is used for
standby power or peak load shaving, such use shall be
recorded and shall be allowed to be substituted for sched-
uled testing of the generator set, provided that appropriate
records are maintained.
604.4.1 Transfer switch test. The test of the transfer switch
shall consist of electrically operating the transfer switch
from the normal position to the alternate position and then
return to the normal position.
604.5 Supervision of maintenance and testing. Routine
maintenance, inspection and operational testing shall be over-
seen by a properly instructed individual.
SECTION 605
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, WIRING AND HAZARDS
605.1 Abatement of electrical hazards. Identified electrical
hazards shall be abated. Identified hazardous electrical condi-
tions in permanent wiring shall be brought to the attention of
the code official responsible for enforcement of the ICC Elec-
trical Code. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances and other
equipment that is modified or damaged and constitutes an elec-
trical shock or fire hazard shall not be used.
605.2 Illumination. Illumination shall be provided for service
equipment areas, motor control centers and electrical
panelboards.
605.3 Working space and clearance. A working space of not
less than 30 inches (762 mm) in width, 36 inches (914 mm) in
depth and 78 inches (1981 mm) in height shall be provided in
front of electrical service equipment. Where the electrical ser-
vice equipment is wider than 30 inches (762 nmn), the working
space shall not be less than the width of the equipment. No stor-
age of any materials shall be located within the designated
working space.
Exceptions:
1. Where other dimensions are required or allowed by
the ICC Electrical Code.
2. Access openings into attics or under-floor areas
which provide a minimum clear opening of 22 inches
(559 mm) by 30 inches (762 mm).
605.3.1 Labeling. Doors into electrical control panel rooms
shall be marked with a plainly visible and legible sign stat-
ing ELECTRICAL ROOM or similar approved wording.
The disconnecting means for each service, feeder or branch
circuit originating on a switchboard or panelboard shall be
legibly and durably marked to indicate its purpose unless
such purpose is clearly evident.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE<^
49
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
605.4 Multiplug adapters. Multiplug adapters, such as cube
adapters, unfused plug strips or any other device not complying
with the ICC Electrical Code shall be prohibited.
605.4.1 Power tap design. Relocatable power taps shall be
of the polarized or grounded type, equipped with
overcurrent protection, and shall be listed in accordance
with UL 1363.
605.4.2 Power supply. Relocatable power taps shall be
directly connected to a permanently installed receptacle.
605.4.3 Installation. Relocatable power tap cords shall not
extend through walls, ceilings, floors, under doors or floor
coverings, or be subject to environmental or physical dam-
age.
605.5 Extension cords. Extension cords and flexible cords
shall not be a substitute for permanent wiring. Extension cords
and flexible cords shall not be affixed to structures, extended
through walls, ceilings or floors, or under doors or floor cover-
ings, nor shall such cords be subject to environmental damage
or physical impact. Extension cords shall be used only with
portable appliances.
605.5.1 Power supply. Extension cords shall be plugged
directly into an approved receptacle, power tap or multiplug
adapter and, except for approved multiplug extension cords,
shall serve only one portable appliance.
605.5.2 Ampacity. The ampacity of the extension cords
shall not be less than the rated capacity of the portable appli-
ance supplied by the cord.
605.5.3 Maintenance. Extension cords shall be maintained
in good condition without splices, deterioration or damage.
605.5.4 Grounding. Extension cords shall be grounded
when serving grounded portable appliances.
605.6 Unapproved conditions. Open junction boxes and
open- wiring splices shall be prohibited. Approved covers shall
be provided for all switch and electrical outlet boxes.
605.7 Appliances. Electrical appliances and fixtures shall be
tested and listed in published reports of inspected electrical
equipment by an approved agency and installed and main-
tained in accordance with all instructions included as part of
such listing.
605.8 Electrical motors. Electrical motors shall be maintained
free from excessive accumulations of oil, dirt, waste and
debris.
605.9 Temporary wiring. Temporary wiring for electrical
power and lighting installations is allowed for a period not to
exceed 90 days. Temporary wiring methods shall meet the
applicable provisions of the ICC Electrical Code.
Exception: Temporary wiring for electrical power and
lighting installations is allowed during periods of construc-
tion, remodeling, repair or demolition of buildings, struc-
tures, equipment or similar activities.
605.9.1 Attachment to structures. Temporary wiring
attached to a structure shall be attached in an approved man-
ner.
605.10 Portable, electric space heaters. Portable, electric
space heaters shall comply with Sections 605.10.1 through
605.10.4.
605.10.1 Listed and labeled. Only listed and labeled porta-
ble, electric space heaters shall be used.
605.10.2 Power supply. Portable, electric space heaters
shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle.
605.10.3 Extension cords. Portable, electric space heaters
shall not be plugged into extension cords.
605.10.4 Prohibited areas. Portable, electric space heaters
shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combus-
tible materials. Portable, electric space heaters shall be
operated only in locations for which they are listed.
SECTION 606
MECHANICAL REFRIGERATION
[M] 606.1 Scope. Refrigeration systems shall be installed in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
[M] 606.2 Refrigerants. The use and purity of new, recovered,
and reclaimed refrigerants shall be in accordance with the
International Mechanical Code.
[M] 606.3 Refrigerant classification. Refrigerants shall be
classified in accordance with the International Mechanical
Code.
[M] 606.4 Change in refrigerant type. A change in the type of
refrigerant in a refrigeration system shall be in accordance with
the International Mechanical Code.
606.5 Access. Refrigeration systems having a refrigerant cir-
cuit containing more than 220 pounds (100 kg) of Group Al or
30 pounds (14 kg) of any other group refrigerant shall be acces-
sible to the fire department at all times as required by the fire
code official.
606.6 Testing of equipment. Refrigeration equipment and
systems having a refrigerant circuit containing more than 220
pounds (100 kg) of Group A 1 or 30 pounds (14 kg) of any other
group refrigerant shall be subject to periodic testing in accor-
dance with Section 606.6.1. A written record of required test-
ing shall be maintained on the premises. Tests of emergency
devices or systems required by this chapter shall be conducted
by persons trained and qualified in refrigeration systems.
606.6.1 Periodic testing. The following emergency devices
or systems shall be periodically tested in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions and as required by the fire
code official.
1. Treatment and flaring systems.
2. Valves and appurtenances necessary to the operation
of emergency refrigeration control boxes.
3. Fans and associated equipment intended to operate
emergency ventilation systems.
4. Detection and alarm systems.
606.7 Emergency signs. Refrigeration units or systems having
a refrigerant circuit containing more than 220 pounds (100 kg)
of Group Al or 30 pounds (14 kg) of any other group refriger-
50
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
%.
i
ant shall be provided with approved emergency signs, charts,
and labels in accordance with NFPA 704. Hazard signs shall be
in accordance with the International Mechanical Code for the
classification of refrigerants listed therein.
606.8 Refrigerant detector. Machinery rooms shall contain a
refrigerant detector with an audible and visual alarm. The
detector, or a sampling tube that draws air to the detector, shall
be located in an area where refrigerant from a leak will concen-
trate. The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greater than the
corresponding TLV-TWA values shown in the International
Mechanical Code for the refrigerant classification. Detectors
and alarms shall be- placed in approved locations.
606.9 Remote controls. Remote control of the mechanical
equipment and appliances located in the machinery room shall
be provided at an approved location immediately outside the
machinery room and adjacent to its principal entrance.
606.9.1 Refrigeration system. A clearly identified switch
of the break-glass type shall provide off-only control of
electrically energized equipment and appliances in the
machinery room, other than refrigerant leak detectors and
machinery room ventilation.
Exception: In machinery rooms where only nonflam-
mable refrigerants are used, electrical equipment and
appliances, other than compressors, are not required to
be provided with a cut-off switch.
606.9.2 Ventilation system. A clearly identified switch of
the break-glass type shall provide on-only control of the
machinery room ventilation fans.
606.10 Emergency pressure control system. Refrigeration
systems containing more than 6.6 pounds (3 kg) of flammable,
toxic or highly toxic refrigerant or ammonia shall be provided
with an emergency pressure control system in accordance with
Sections 606.10.1 and 606.10.2.
606.10.1 Automatic crossover valves. Each high- and
intermediate-pressure zone in a refrigeration system shall
be provided with a single automatic valve providing a cross-
over connection to a lower pressure zone. Automatic cross-
over valves shall comply with Sections 606.10.1.1 through
606.10.1.3.
606.10.1.1 Overpressure limit setpoint. Automatic
crossover valves shall be arranged to automatically
relieve excess system pressure to a lower pressure zone if
the pressure in a high- or intermediate-pressure zone
rises to within 15 psi (108.4 kPa) of the set point for
emergency pressure-relief devices.
606.10.1.2 Manual operation. When required by the
fire code official, automatic crossover valves shall be
capable of manual operation.
606.10.1.3 System design pressure. Refrigeration sys-
tem zones that are connected to a higher pressure zone by
an automatic crossover valve shall be designed to safely
contain the maximum pressure that can be achieved by
interconnection of the two zones.
606.10.2 Automatic emergency stop. An automatic emer-
gency stop feature shall be provided in accordance with
Sections 606.10.2.1 and 606.10.2.2.
606.10.2.1 Operation of an automatic crossover
valve. Operation of an automatic crossover valve shall
cause all compressors on the effected system to immedi-
ately stop. Dedicated pressure-sensing devices located
immediately adjacent to crossover valves shall be per-
mitted as a means for determining operation of a valve.
To ensure that the automatic crossover valve system pro-
vides a redundant means of stopping compressors in an
overpressure condition, high-pressure cutout sensors
associated with compressors shall not be used as a basis
for determining operation of a crossover valve.
606.10.2.2 Overpressure in low-pressure zone. The
lowest pressure zone in a refrigeration system shall be
provided with a dedicated means of determining a rise in
system pressure to within 15 psi (103.4 kPa) of the
setpoint for emergency pressure-relief devices. Activa-
tion of the overpressure sensing device shall cause all
compressors on the effected system to immediately stop.
606.11 Storage, use and handling. Flammable and combusti-
ble materials shall not be stored in machinery rooms for refrig-
eration systems having a refrigerant circuit containing more
than 220 pounds (100 kg) of Group Al or 30 pounds (14 kg) of
any other group refrigerant. Storage, use or handling of extra
refrigerant or refrigerant oils shall be as required by Chapters
27, 30, 32 and 34.
Exception: This provision shall not apply to spare parts,
tools, and incidental materials necessary for the safe and
proper operation and maintenance of the system.
606.12 Termination of relief devices. Pressure relief devices,
fusible plugs and purge systems for refrigeration systems con-
taining more than 6.6 pounds (3 kg) of flammable, toxic or
highly toxic refrigerants shall be provided with an approved
discharge system as required by Sections 606.12.1, 606.12.2
and 606.12.3. Discharge piping and devices connected to the
discharge side of a fusible plug or rupture member shall have
provisions to prevent plugging the pipe in the event of the fus-
ible plug or rupture member functions.
606.12.1 Flammable refrigerants. Systems containing
flammable refrigerants having a density equal to or greater
than the density of air shall discharge vapor to the atmo-
sphere only through an approved treatment system in accor-
dance with Section 606.12.4 or a flaring system in
accordance with Section 606.12.5. Systems containing
flammable refrigerants having a density less than the den-
sity of air shall be permitted to discharge vapor to the atmo-
sphere provided that the point of discharge is located
outside of the structure at not less than 15 feet (4572 mm)
above the adjoining grade level and not less than 20 feet
(6096 mm) from any window, ventilation opening or exit.
606.12.2 Toxic and highly toxic refrigerants. Systems
containing toxic or highly toxic refrigerants shall discharge
vapor to the atmosphere only through an approved treat-
ment system in accordance with Section 606.12.4 or a flar-
ing system in accordance with Section 606.12.5.
606.12.3 Ammonia refrigerant. Systems containing
ammonia refrigerant shall discharge vapor to the atmo-
sphere through an approved treatment system in accordance
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
51
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
with Section 606.12.4, a flaring system in accordance with
Section 606.12.5, or through an approved ammonia diffu-
sion system in accordance with Section 606.12.6, or by
other approved means.
Exceptions:
1. Ammonia/water absorption systems containing
less than 22 pounds (10 kg) of ammonia and for
which the ammonia circuit is located entirely out-
doors.
2. When the fire code official determines, on review
of an engineering analysis prepared in accordance
with Section 104.7.2, that a fire, health or environ-
mental hazard would not result from discharging
ammonia directly to the atmosphere.
606.12.4 Treatment systems. Treatment systems shall be
designed to reduce the allowable discharge concentration of
the refrigerant gas to not more than 50 percent of the IDLH
at the point of exhaust. Treatment systems shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 37.
606.12.5 Flaring systems. Flaring systems for incineration
of flammable refrigerants shall be designed to incinerate the
entire discharge. The products of refrigerant incineration
shall not pose health or environmental hazards. Incineration
shall be automatic upon initiation of discharge, shall be
designed to prevent blowback, and shall not expose struc-
tures or materials to threat of fire. Standby fuel, such as LP
gas, and standby power shall have the capacity to operate for
one and one-half the required time for complete incineration
of refrigerant in the system.
606.12.6 Ammonia diffusion systems. Annmonia diffu-
sion systems shall include a tank containing 1 gallon of
water for each pound of ammonia (4 L of water for each 1 kg
of ammonia) that will be released in 1 hour from the largest
relief device connected to the discharge pipe. The water
shall be prevented from freezing. The discharge pipe from
the pressure relief device shall distribute ammonia in the
bottom of the tank, but no lower than 33 feet (10 058 mm)
below the maximum liquid level. The tank shall contain the
volume of water and ammonia without overflowing.
606.13 Discharge location for refrigeration machinery
room ventilation. Exhaust from mechanical ventilation sys-
tems serving refrigeration machinery rooms capable of
exceeding 25 percent of the LFL or 50 percent of the IDLH
shall be equipped with approved treatment systems to reduce
the discharge concentrations of flammable, toxic or highly
toxic refrigerants to those values or lower.
606.14 Notification of refrigerant discharges. The fire code
official shall be notified immediately when a discharge
becomes reportable under state, federal or local regulations in
accordance with Section 2703.3. 1 .
606.15 Records. A written record shall be kept of refrigerant
quantities brought into and removed from the premises. Such
records shall be available to the fire code official.
606.16 Electrical equipment. Where refrigerants of Groups
A2, A3, B2 and B3, as defined in the International Mechanical
Code, are used, refrigeration machinery rooms shall conform
to the Class I, Division 2 hazardous location classification
requirements of the ICC Electrical Code.
Exception: Ammonia machinery rooms that are provided
with ventilation in accordance with Section 1106.3 of the
International Mechanical Code.
SECTION 607
ELEVATOR RECALL AND MAINTENANCE
607.1 Required. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25
feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor or other
level of a building and intended to serve the needs of emer-
gency personnel for fire-fighting or rescue purposes shall be
provided with emergency operation in accordance with ASME
A 17. 3. New elevators shall be provided with Phase I emer-
gency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation
in accordance with ASME A17.1.
[B] 607.2 Emergency signs. An approved pictorial sign of a
standardized design shall be posted adjacent to each elevator
call station on all floors instructing occupants to use the exit
stairways and not to use the elevators in case of fire. The sign
shall read: IN FIRE EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE ELEVA-
TOR. USE EXIT STAIRS. The emergency sign shall not be
required for elevators that are part of an accessible means of
egress complying with Section 1007.4.
607.3 Elevator keys. Keys for the elevator car doors and
fire-fighter service keys shall be kept in an approved location
for immediate use by the fire department.
SECTION 608
STATIONARY STORAGE BATTERY SYSTEMS
608.1 Scope. Stationary storage battery systems having an
electrolyte capacity of more than 50 gallons ( 1 89 L) for flooded
lead acid, nickel cadmium (Ni-Cd) and valve-regulated lead
acid (VRLA), or 1,000 pounds (454 kg) for lithium-ion, used
for facility standby power, emergency power or uninterrupted
power supplies, shall comply with this section and Table 608. 1 .
608.2 Safety caps. Safety caps for stationary storage battery
systems shall comply with Sections 608.2.1 and 608.2.2.
608.2.1 Nonrecombinant batteries. Vented lead acid,
nickel-cadmium or other types of nonrecombinant batteries
shall be provided with safety venting caps.
608.2.2 Recombinant batteries. VRLA batteries shall be
equipped with self-resealing flame-arresting safety vents.
608.3 Thermal runaway. VRLA battery systems shall be pro-
vided with a listed device or other approved method to pre-
clude, detect and control thermal runaway.
608.4 Room design and construction. Enclosure of station-
ary battery systems shall comply with the International Build-
ing Code. Battery systems shall be allowed to be in the same
room with the equipment they support.
608.4,1 Separate rooms. When stationary batteries are
installed in a separate equipment room accessible only to
authorized personnel, they shall be permitted to be installed
on an open rack for ease of maintenance.
•
52
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
TABLE 608.1
BATTERY REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENT
NONRECOMBINANT BATTERIES
RECOMBINANT BAT I bRIES
Flooded Lead
Acid Batteries
Flooded Nickel-Cadmium
(Ni-Cd) Batteries
Valve Regulated Lead Acid
(VRLA) Batteries
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Safety caps
Venting caps
(608.2.1)
Venting caps
(608.2.1)
Self-resealing
flame-arresting caps
(608.2.2)
No caps
Thermal runaway
management
Not required
Not required
Required
(608.3)
Not required
Spill control
Required
(608.5)
Required
(608.5)
Not required
Not required
Neutralization
Required
(608.5.1)
Required
(608.5.1)
Required
(608.5.2)
Not required
Ventilation
Required
(608.6.1; 608.6.2)
Required
(608.6.1; 608.6.2)
Required
(608.6.1; 608.6.2)
Not required
Signage
Required
(608.7)
Required
(608.7)
Required
(608.7)
Required (608.7)
Seismic protection
Required
(608.8)
Required
(608.8)
Required
(608.8)
Required (608.8)
Smoke detection
Required
(608.9)
Required
(608.9)
Required
(608.9)
Required (608.9)
•I
608.4.2 Occupied work centers. When a system of VRLA,
lithium-ion, or other type of sealed, nonventing batteries is
situated in an occupied work center, it shall be allowed to be
housed in a noncombustible cabinet or other enclosure to
prevent access by unauthorized personnel.
608.4.3 Cabinets. When stationary batteries are contained
in cabinets in occupied work centers, the cabinet enclosures
shall be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the equipment
that they support.
608.5 Spill control and neutralization. An approved method
and materials for the control and neutralization of a spill of
electrolyte shall be provided in areas containing lead-acid,
nickel-cadmium or other types of batteries with free-flowing
liquid electrolyte. For purposes of this paragraph, a "spill" is
defined as any unintentional release of electrolyte.
Exception: VRLA, lithium-ion or other types of sealed bat-
teries with immobilized electrolyte shall not require spill
control.
608.5.1 Nonrecombinant battery neutralization. For bat-
tery systems containing lead-acid, nickel-cadmium or other
types of batteries with free-flowing electrolyte, the method
and materials shall be capable of neutralizing a spill from
the largest lead-acid battery to a pH between 7.0 and 9.0.
608.5.2 Recombinant battery neutralization. For VRLA
or other types of sealed batteries with immobilized electro-
lyte, the method and material shall be capable of neutraliz-
ing a spill of 3 percent of the capacity of the largest VRLA
cell or block in the room to a pH between 7.0 and 9.0.
Exception: Lithium-ion batteries shall not require neu-
tralization.
608.6 Ventilation. Ventilation of stationary storage battery
systems shall comply with Sections 608.6.1 and 608.6.2.
608.6.1 Room ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code and the
following:
1 . For flooded lead acid, flooded nickel-cadmium, and
VRLA batteries, the ventilation system shall be
designed to limit the maximum concentration of
hydrogen to 1 percent of the total volume of the room;
or
2. Continuous ventilation shall be provided at a rate of
not less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot [ 1
ftVmin/ft2 or 0.0051 mV(s • m^)] of floor area of the
room.
Exception: Lithium-ion batteries shall not require venti-
lation.
608.6.2 Cabinet ventilation. When VRLA batteries are
installed inside a cabinet, the cabinet shall be approved for
use in occupied spaces and shall be mechanically or natu-
rally vented by one of the following methods:
1. The cabinet ventilation shall limit the maximum con-
centration of hydrogen to 1 percent of the total vol-
ume of the cabinet during the worst-case event of
simultaneous "boost" charging of all the batteries in
the cabinet; or
2. When calculations are not available to substantiate
the ventilation rate, continuous ventilation shall be
provided at a rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per min-
ute per square foot [1 ft^/min/ft^ or 0.005 1 mV(s • m^)]
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
53
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
of floor area covered by the cabinet. The room in
which the cabinet is installed shall also be ventilated
as required in Section 608.6.1.
608.7 Signage. Signs shall comply with Sections 608.7.1 and
608.7.2.
608.7.1 Equipment room and building signage. Doors
into electrical equipment rooms or buildings containing sta-
tionary battery systems shall be provided with approved
signs. The signs shall state that:
1. The room contains energized battery systems.
2. The room contains energized electrical circuits.
3. The battery electrolyte solutions, where present, are
corrosive liquids.
608.7.2 Cabinet signage. Cabinets shall have exterior
labels that identify the manufacturer and model number of
the system and electrical rating (voltage and current) of the
contained battery system. There shall be signs within the
cabinet that indicate the relevant electrical, chemical and
fire hazards.
608.8 Seismic protection. The battery systems shall be seismi-
cally braced in accordance with the International Building
Code.
608.9 Smoke detection. An approved automatic smoke detec-
tion system shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2
in rooms containing stationary battery systems.
SECTION 609
COMMERCIAL KITCHEN HOODS
[M] 609.1 General. Commercial kitchen exhaust hoods shall
comply with the requirements of the International Mechanical
Code.
[M] 609.2 Where required. A Type I hood shall be installed at
or above all commercial cooking appliances and domestic
cooking appliances used for commercial purposes that produce
grease vapors.
54
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
CHAPTER 7
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION
SECTION 701
GENERAL
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall specify the
requirements for and the maintenance of fire-resistance-rated
construction and requirements for enclosing floor openings
and shafts in existing buildings. New construction shall comply
with the International Building Code.
SECTION 702
DEFINITIONS
702.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 703
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION
703.1 Maintenance. The required fire-resistance rating of
fire-resistance-rated construction (including walls, firestops,
shaft enclosures, partitions, smoke barriers, floors, fire-resis-
tive coatings and sprayed fire-resistant materials applied to
structural members and fire-resistant joint systems) shall be
maintained. Such elements shall be properly repaired, restored
or replaced when damaged, altered, breached or penetrated.
Openings made therein for the passage of pipes, electrical con-
duit, wires, ducts, air transfer openings and holes made for any
reason shall be protected with approved methods capable of
resisting the passage of smoke and fire. Openings through
fire-resistance-rated assemblies shall be protected by self- or
automatic-closing doors of approved construction meeting the
fire protection requirements for the assembly.
703.1.1 Fireblocking and draftstopping. Required
fireblocking and draftstopping in combustible concealed
spaces shall be maintained to provide continuity and integ-
rity of the construction.
703.1.2 Smoke barriers. Required smoke barriers shall be
maintained to prevent the passage of smoke and all openings
protected with approved smoke barrier doors or smoke
dampers.
703.2 Opening protectives. Opening protectives shall be
maintained in an operative condition in accordance with NFPA
80. Fire doors and smoke barrier doors shall not be blocked or
obstructed or otherwise made inoperable. Fusible links shall be
replaced promptly whenever fused or damaged. Fire door
assemblies shall not be modified.
703.2.1 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, a
sign shall be permanently displayed on or near each fire
door in letters not less than 1 inch (25 mm) high to read as
follows:
1. For doors designed to be kept normally open: FIRE
DOOR— DO NOT BLOCK.
2. For doors designed to be kept normally closed: FIRE
DOOR— KEEP CLOSED.
703.2.2 Hold-open devices and closers. Hold-open
devices and automatic door closers, where provided, shall
be maintained. During the period that such device is out of
service for repairs, the door it operates shall remain in the
closed position.
703.2.3 Door operation. Swinging fire doors shall close
from the full-open position and latch automatically. The
door closer shall exert enough force to close and latch the
door from any partially open position.
703.3 Ceilings. The hanging and displaying of salable goods
and other decorative materials from acoustical ceiling systems
that are part of a fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling or roof/ceil-
ing assembly, shall be prohibited.
703.4 Testing. Horizontal and vertical sliding and rolling fire
doors shall be inspected and tested annually to confirm proper
operation and full closure. A written record shall be maintained
and be available to the fire code official.
SECTION 704
FLOOR OPENINGS AND SHAFTS
704.1 Enclosure. Interior vertical shafts, including but not lim-
ited to stairways, elevator hoistways, service and utility shafts,
that connect two or more stories of a building shall be enclosed
or protected as specified in Table 704. 1 .
704.2 Opening protectives. When openings are required to be
protected, opening protectives shall be maintained self-closing
or automatic-closing by smoke detection. Existing fus-
ible-link-type automatic door-closing devices are permitted if
the fusible link rating does not exceed 135 °F (57 °C).
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
55
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION
TABLE 704.1
VERTICAL OPENING PROTECTION REQUIRED
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
CONDITIONS
PROTECTION REQUIRED
Group I
Vertical openings connecting two or more stories
1 -hour protection
All, other than Group I
Vertical openings connecting two stories
No protection required"''
All, other than Group I
Vertical openings connecting three to five stories
1-hour protection or automatic sprinklers
throughout"'*'
All, other than Group I
Vertical openings connecting more than five stories
1 -hour protection"-''
All
Mezzanines open to the floor below
No protection required"''
All, other than Group I
Atriums and covered mall buildings
1-hour protection or automatic sprinklers
throughout
All, other than Groups B and M
Escalator openings connecting four or less stories in a
sprinklered building. Openings must be protected by a draft
curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with
NFPA 13
No protection required
Group B and M
Escalator openings in a sprinklered building protected by a
draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with
NFPA 13
No protection required
a. Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
b. Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking ^rages and ramps.
56
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
CHAPTER 8
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
SECTION 801
GENERAL
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern inte-
rior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative
materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Section 803
shall be applicable to existing buildings. Sections 804 through
808 shall be applicable to new and existing buildings.
SECTION 802
DEFINITIONS
802.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 803
INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH AND TRIM
IN EXISTING BUILDINGS
803.1 GeneraL The provisions of this section shall limit the
allowable flame spread and smoke development of interior
wall and ceiling finishes and interior wall and ceiling trim in
existing buildings based on location and occupancy classifica-
tion. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall be classified in
accordance with Section 803 of the International Building
Code. Such materials shall be grouped in accordance with
ASTM E 84, as indicated in Section 803.1.1, or in accordance
with NFPA 286, as indicated in Section 803.1.2.
Exceptions:
1 . Materials having a thickness less than 0.036 inch (0.9
mm) applied directly to the surface of walls and ceil-
ings.
2. Exposed portions of structural members complying
with the requirements of buildings of Type IV con-
struction in accordance with the International Build-
ing Code shall not be subject to interior finish
requirements.
803.1.1 Classification in accordance with ASTM E 84.
Interior finish materials shall be grouped in the following
classes in accordance with their flame spread and
smoke-developed index when tested in accordance with
ASTM E 84.
Class A: flame spread index 0-25; smoke-developed
index 0-450.
Class B: flame spread index 26-75; smoke-developed
index 0-450.
Class C: flame spread index 76-200; smoke-developed
index 0-450.
803.1.2 Classification in accordance with NFPA 286.
Interior wall or ceiling finishes, other than textiles, shall be
allowed to be tested in accordance with NFPA 286. Finishes
tested in accordance with NFPA 286 shall comply with Sec-
tion 803.1.2.1. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials,
other than textiles, tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and
meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.2.1, shall
be allowed to be used where a Class A classification in
accordance with ASTM E 84 is required.
803.1.2.1 Acceptance criteria for interior finish mate-
rials tested to NFPA 286. During the 40 kW exposure,
the interior finish shall comply with Item 1 . During the
160 kW exposure, the interior finish shall comply with
Item 2. During the entire test, the interior finish shall
comply with Item 3.
1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not
spread to the ceiUng.
2. During the 160 kW exposure, the interior finish
shall comply with the following:
2. 1 . Flame shall not spread to the outer extrem-
ity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
2.2. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall
not occur.
3. The total smoke released throughout the NFPA
286 test shall not exceed 1,000 m^.
803.2 Stability. Interior finish materials regulated by this chap-
ter shall be applied or otherwise fastened in such a manner that
such materials will not readily become detached where sub-
jected to room temperatures of 200°F (93°C) for not less than
30 minutes.
803.3 Interior finish requirements based on occupancy.
Interior wall and ceiling finish shall have a flame spread index
not greater than that specified in Table 803.3 for the group and
location designated.
803.4 Fire-retardant coatings. The required flame spread or
smoke-developed index of surfaces in existing buildings shall
be allowed to be achieved by application of approved fire-retar-
dant coatings, paints or solutions to surfaces having a flame
spread index exceeding that allowed. Such applications shall
comply with NFPA 703 and the required fire-retardant proper-
ties shall be maintained or renewed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
803.5 Textiles. Where used as interior wall or ceihng finish
materials, textiles, including materials having woven or
nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface, shall
comply with the requirements of this section.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
57
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
TABLE 803.3
INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH REQUIREMENTS BY OCCUPANCY''
GROUP
SPRINKLERED'
NONSPRINKLERED
Exit enclosures and
exit passageways"' *'
Corridors
Rooms and
enclosed spaces'^
Exit enclosures and
exit passageways"' ''
Corridors
Rooms and
enclosed spaces'^
A-1&A-2
B
B
C
A
A"
B^
A-3f- A-4, A-5
B
B
C
A
A"
C
B,E,M,R-l,R-4
B
C
c
A
B
C
F
C
C
c
B
C
C
H
B
B
eg
A
A
B
I-l
B
C
c
A
B
B
1-2
B
B
Bh,i
A
A
B
1-3
A
AJ
C
A
A
B
1-4
B
B
Bh,i
A
A
B
R-2
C
C
C
B
B
C
R-3
C
C
c
C
C
C
S
C
C
C
B
B
C
U
No Restrictions
No Restrictions
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 ml
a. Class C interior finish materials shall be allowed for wainscotting or paneling of not more than 1 ,000 square feet of applied surface area in the grade lobby where
applied directly to a noncombustible base or over furring strips applied to a noncombustible base and fireblocked as required by Section 803 .4 of the International
Building Code.
b. In exit enclosures of buildings less than three stories in height of other than Group 1-3, Class B interior finish for nonsprinklered buildings and Class C for
sprinklered buildings shall be permitted.
c. Requirements for rooms and enclosed spaces shall be based upon spaces enclosed by partitions. Where a fire-resistance rating is required for structural elements,
the enclosing partitions shall extend from the floor to the ceiling. Partitions that do not comply with this shall be considered as enclosing spaces and the rooms or
spaces on both sides shall be considered as one. In determining the applicable requirements for rooms and enclosed spaces, the specific occupancy thereof shall be
the governing factor regardless of the group classification of the building or structure.
d. Lobby areas in Group A-1, A-2 and A-3 occupancies shall not be less than Class B materials.
e. Class C interior finish materials shall be allowed in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 300 persons or less.
f. In places of religious worship, wood used for ornamental purposes, trusses, paneling or chancel furnishing shall be allowed.
g. Class B material is required where the building exceeds two stories.
h. Class C interior finish materials shall be allowed in administrative spaces.
i. Class C interior finish materials shall be allowed in rooms with a capacity of four persons or less.
j. Class B materials shall be allowed as wainscoting extending not more than 48 inches above the finished floor in corridors,
k. Finish materials as provided for in other sections of this code.
1. Applies when the vertical exits, exit passageways, corridors or rooms and spaces are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
803.5.1 Textile wall coverings. Textile wall coverings shall
comply with one of the following:
1. The coverings shall have a Class A flame spread
index in accordance with ASTM E 84 and be pro-
tected by automatic sprinklers installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2,
2. The covering shall meet the criteria of Section
803.5.1.1 or 803.5.1.2 when tested in the manner
intended for use in accordance with NFPA 265 using
the product-mounting system, including adhesive, of
actual use, or
3. The covering shall meet the criteria of Section
803.1.2.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286
using the product-mounting system, including adhe-
sive, of actual use.
803.5.1.1 Method A test protocol. During the Method
A protocol, flame shall not spread to the ceiling during
the 40 kW exposure. During the 150 kW exposure, the
textile wall covering shall comply with all of the follow-
ing:
1 . Rame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the
sample on the 8-foot by 12-foot (203 nmi by 305
mm) wall.
2. The specimen shall not bum to the outer extremity
of the 2-foot- wide (610 mm) samples mounted in
the comer of the room.
3. Buming droplets deemed capable of igniting tex-
tile wall coverings or that bum for 30 seconds or
more shall not form.
58
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
«l
•I
4. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 265, shall not
occur.
5. The maximum net instantaneous peak heat release
rate, determined by subtracting the burner output
from the maximum heat release rate, does not
exceed 300 kW.
803.5.1.2 Method B test protocol. During the Method B
protocol, flames shall not spread to the ceiling at any time
during the 40 kW exposure. During the 150 kW expo-
sure, the textile wall covering shall comply with the fol-
lowing:
1 . Flame shall not spread to the outer extremities of
the samples on the 8-foot by 12-foot (203 mm by
305 mm) walls.
2. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 265, shall not
occur.
803.6 Expanded vinyl wall or ceiling coverings. Expanded
vinyl wall or ceiling coverings shall comply with the require-
ments of either Section 803.6.1 or 803.6.2.
803.6.1 General. Expanded vinyl wall or ceiling coverings
shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.2.
Expanded vinyl wall or ceiling coverings complying with
Section 803 .1.2 shall not be required to comply with Section
803.1.1.
803.6.2 Compliance alternative. Expanded vinyl wall or
ceiUng coverings shall be allowed to comply with the
requirements for textile wall or ceiling coverings in Section
803.5.
803.7 Foam plastic materials. Foam plastic materials shall
not be used as interior wall and ceiling finish unless specifically
allowed by Section 803.7.1 or 803.7.2. Foam plastic materials
shall not be used as interior trim unless specifically allowed by
Section 803.7.3.
803.7.1 Combustibility characteristics. Foam plastic
materials shall be allowed on the basis of fire tests that sub-
stantiate their combustibility characteristics for the use
intended under actual fire conditions, as indicated in Section
2603.9 of the International Building Code. This section
shall apply both to exposed foam plastics and to foam plas-
tics used in conjunction with a textile or vinyl facing or
cover.
803.7.2 Thermal barrier. Foam plastic material shall be
allowed if it is separated from the interior of the building by
a thermal barrier in accordance with Section 2603.4 of the
International Building Code.
803.7.3 Trim. Foam plastic shall be allowed for trim not in
excess of 10 percent of the wall or ceiling area, provided
such trim is not less than 20 pounds per cubic foot (320
kg/m^) in density; is limited to 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) in thick-
ness and 8 inches (203 mm) in width, and exhibits a flame
spread index not exceeding 75 when tested in accordance
with ASTM E 84. The smoke-developed index shall not be
limited.
SECTION 804
INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING TRIM
IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
804.1 Interior trim. Material, other than foam plastic, used as
interior trim shall have a minimum Class C flame spread and
smoke-developed index, when tested in accordance with
ASTM E 84, as described in Section 803.1.1. Combustible
trim, excluding handrails and guardrails, shall not exceed 10
percent of the aggregate wall or ceiling area in which it is
located.
804.2 Foam plastic. Foam plastic used as interior trim shall
comply with Sections 804.2.1 through 804.2.4.
804.2.1 Density. The minimum density of the interior trim
shall be 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m^).
804.2.2 Thickness. The maximum thickness of the interior
trim shall be 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and the maximum width
shall be 8 inches (203 mm).
804.2.3 Area limitation. The interior trim shall not consti-
tute more than 10 percent of the aggregate wall and ceiling
area of a room or space.
804.2.4 Flame spread. The flame spread index shall not
exceed 75 where tested in accordance with ASTM E 84. The
smoke-developed index shall not be limited.
SECTION 805
UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE AND MATTRESSES
IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
805.1 Group I-l, board and care facilities. The requirements
in Sections 805.1.1 through 805.1.2 shall apply to board and
care facilities classified in Group I-l.
805.1.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections
805.1.1.1 and 805.1.1.2.
805.1.1.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
upholstered furniture shall be shown to resist ignition by
cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accor-
dance with NFPA 260 and shall meet the requirements of
Class I.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces
protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.1.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release
when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1537 or Cali-
fornia Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
1. The peak rate of heat release for the single uphol-
stered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered
furniture item during the first 5 minutes of the test
shall not exceed 24 megajoules (MJ).
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
805.1.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall
bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compli-
ance with the requirements of Sections 805.1.1.1 and
805.1.1.2.
805.1.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall
meet the requirements of Sections 805.1.2.1 through
805.1.2.3.
805.1.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes
as determined by tests conducted in accordance with
DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not
exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected
by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.1.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mat-
tresses shall have limited rates of heat release when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 1590 or California
Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
1. The peak rate of heat release for the single uphol-
stered furniture item shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered
furniture item during the first 1 minutes of the test
shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
805.1.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label
of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the
requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 and 805.2.2.2.
805.2 Group 1-2, nursing homes and hospitals. The require-
ments in Sections 805.2.1 through 805.2.2 shall apply to nurs-
ing homes and hospitals classified in Group 1-2.
805.2.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections
805.2.1.1 through 805.2.1.3.
805.2.1.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
upholstered furniture shall be shown to resist ignition by
cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accor-
dance with one of the following: (a) mocked-up compos-
ites of the upholstered furniture shall have a char length
not exceeding 1.5 inches (38 mm) when tested in accor-
dance with NFPA 261 or (b) the components of the
upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for
Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
Exceptions:
1 . Upholstered furniture belonging to the patient
in sleeping rooms of nursing homes (Group
1-2), provided that a smoke detector is installed
in such rooms. Battery-powered, single-station
smoke alarms shall be allowed.
2. Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
805.2.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release
when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1537 or Cali-
fornia Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
1 . The peak rate of heat release for the single uphol-
stered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered
furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test
shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
805.2.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall
bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compli-
ance with the requirements of Sections 805.2.1.1 and
805.2.1.2.
805.2.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall
meet the requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 through
805.2.2.3.
805.2.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes
as determined by tests conducted in accordance with
DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not
exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.2.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mat-
tresses shall have limited rates of heat release when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 1590 or California
Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
1 . The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress
shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
to
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•I
2. The total energy released by the single mattress
during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not
exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
805.2.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label
of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the
requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 and 805.2.2.2.
805.3 Group 1-3, detention and correction facilities. The
requirements in Sections 805.3.1 through 805.3.2 shall apply
to detention and correction facilities classified in Group 1-3.
805.3.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections
805.3.1.1 through 805.3.1.3
805.3.1.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
upholstered furniture shall be shown to resist ignition by
cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accor-
dance with one of the following:
1 . Mocked-up composites of the upholstered furni-
ture shall have a char length not exceeding 1.5
inches (38 mm) when tested in accordance with
NFPA261,or
2. The components of the upholstered furniture shall
meet the requirements for Class I when tested in
accordance with NFPA 260.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
805.3.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced uphol-
stered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release
when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1537, as fol-
lows:
1 . The peak rate of heat release for the single uphol-
stered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exceptions:
1. In Use Condition I, II and III occupan-
cies, as defined in the International
Building Code, upholstered furniture in
rooms or spaces protected by approved
smoke detectors that initiate, without
delay, an alarm that is audible in that
room or space.
2. Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces
protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered
furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test
shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or
spaces protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
805.3.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall
bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compli-
ance with the requirements of Sections 805.3.1.1 and
805.3.1.2.
805.3.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall
meet the requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 through
805.3.2.3.
805.3.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced
mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes
as determined by tests conducted in accordance with
DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not
exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected
by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.3.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced
mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 1590 or California
Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
1 . The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress
shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered
furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test
shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces pro-
tected by an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
805.3.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label
of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the
requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 and 805.3.2.2.
SECTION 806
DECORATIVE VEGETATION
IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
806.1 Natural cut trees. Natural cut trees, where allowed by
this section, shall have the trunk bottoms cut off at least 0.5 inch
(12.7 mm) above the original cut and shall be placed in a sup-
port device complying with Section 806.1.2.
806.1.1 Restricted occupancies. Natural cut trees shall be
prohibited in Group A, E, I-l, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, M, R-1, R-2 and
R-4 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. Trees located in areas protected by an approved
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall not be
prohibited in Groups A, E, M, R-1 and R-2.
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
2. Trees shall be allowed within dwelling units in
Group R-2 occupancies.
806.1.2 Support devices. The support device that holds the
tree in an upright position shall be of a type that is stable and
that meets all of the following criteria:
1 . The device shall hold the tree securely and be of ade-
quate size to avoid tipping over of the tree.
2. The device shall be capable of containing a minimum
two-day supply of water.
3. The water level, when full, shall cover the tree stem at
least 2 inches (5 1 mm). The water level shall be main-
tained above the fresh cut and checked at least once
daily.
806.1.3 Dryness. The tree shall be removed from the build-
ing whenever the needles or leaves fall off readily when a
tree branch is shaken or if the needles are brittle and break
when bent between the thumb and index finger. The tree
shall be checked daily for dryness.
806.2 Artificial vegetation. Artificial decorative vegetation
shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA
701. Meeting the flame propagation performance criteria of
NFPA 701 shall be documented and certified by the manufac-
turer in an approved manner.
806.3 Obstruction of means of egress. The required width of
any portion of a means of egress shall not be obstructed by dec-
orative vegetation.
806.4 Open flame. Candles and open flames shall not be used
on or near decorative vegetation. Natural cut trees shall be kept
a distance from heat vents and any open flame or heat-produc-
ing devices at least equal to the height of the tree.
806.5 Electrical fixtures and wiring. The use of unHsted elec-
trical wiring and lighting on natural cut trees and artificial dec-
orative vegetation shall be prohibited. The use of electrical
wiring and lighting on artificial trees constructed entirely of
metal shall be prohibited.
SECTION 807
DECORATIVE MATERIALS OTHER THAN
DECORATIVE VEGETATION
IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
807.1 General requirements. In occupancies in Groups A, E,
I and R-1 and dormitories in Group R-2, curtains, draperies,
hangings and other decorative materials suspended from walls
or ceilings shall meet the flame propagation performance crite-
ria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 806.2 or be
noncombustible.
In Groups I- 1 and 1-2, combustible decorative materials shall
meet the flame propagation criteria of NFPA 701 unless the
decorative materials, including, but not limited to, photographs
and paintings, are of such limited quantities that a hazard of fire
development or spread is not present. In Group 1-3, combusti-
ble decorative materials are prohibited.
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads
and crash pads, applied structurally or for decoration, acousti-
cal correction, surface insulation or other purposes, shall be
considered interior finish if they cover 10 percent or more of
the wall or of the ceiling area, and shall not be considered deco-
rative materials or furnishings.
In Group B and M occupancies, fabric partitions suspended
from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall meet the
flame propagation performance criteria in accordance with
Section 807.2 and NFPA 701 or shall be noncombustible.
807.1.1 Noncombustible materials. The permissible
amount of noncombustible decorative material shall not be
limited.
807.1.2 Combustible decorative materials. The permissi-
ble amount of decorative materials meeting the flame propa-
gation performance criteria of NFPA 701 shall not exceed
10 percent of the aggregate area of walls and ceilings.
Exceptions:
1. In auditoriums in Group A, the permissible
amount of decorative material meeting the flame
propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701
shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate area of
walls and ceiling where the building is equipped
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and
where the material is installed in accordance with
Section 803.4 of the International Building Code.
2. The amount of fabric partitions suspended from
the ceiling and not supported by the floor in Group
B and M occupancies shall not be limited.
807.2 Acceptance criteria and reports. Where required to be
flame resistant, decorative materials shall be tested by an
approved agency and meet the flame propagation performance
criteria of NFPA 701, or such materials shall be
noncombustible. Reports of test results shall be prepared in
accordance with NFPA 701 and furnished to the fire code offi-
cial upon request.
807.3 Pyroxylin plastic. Imitation leather or other material
consisting of or coated with a pyroxylin or similarly hazardous
base shall not be used in Group A occupancies.
807.4 Occupancy-based requirements. In occupancies in
Group A, E and 1-4 day care facilities, decorative materials
other than decorative vegetation shall comply with Sections
807.4.1 through 807.4.4.2.
807.4.1 General. All of the following requirements shall
apply to all Group A and E occupancies and Group 1-4 day
care facilities regulated by Sections 807.4.2 through
807.4.4:
1 . Explosive or highly flammable materials. Furnishings or
decorative materials of an explosive or highly flammable
character shall not be used.
2. Fire-retardant coatings. Fire-retardant coatings in exist-
ing buildings shall be maintained so as to retain the effec-
tiveness of the treatment under service conditions
encountered in actual use.
3. Obstructions. Furnishings or other objects shall not be
placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom
or visibility thereof.
b
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
807.4.2 Group A. The requirements in Sections 807.4.2.1
through 807.4.2.3 shall apply to occupancies in Group A.
807.4.2.1 Foam plastics. Exposed foam plastic materi-
als and unprotected materials containing foam plastic
used for decorative purposes, or stage scenery or exhibit
booths shall have a maximum heat release rate of 100 kW
when tested in accordance with UL 1975.
Exceptions:
1 . Individual foam plastic items or items contain-
ing foam plastic where the foam plastic does
not exceed 1 pound (0.45 kg) in weight.
2. Cellular or foam plastic shall be allowed for
trim not in excess of 10 percent of the wall or
ceiling area, provided it is not less than 20
pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m^) in density; is
limited to 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness and 8
inches (204 mm) in width; and complies with
the requirements for Class B interior wall and
ceiling finish, except that the smoke-developed
index shall not be limited.
807.4.2.2 Motion picture screens. The screens upon
which motion pictures are projected in new and existing
buildings of Group A shall either meet the flame propa-
gation performance criteria of NFPA 701 or shall comply
with the requirements for a Class B interior finish in
accordance with Section 803 of the International Build-
ing Code.
807.4.2.3 Wood use in Group A-3 places of religious
worship. In places of religious worship, wood used for
ornamental purposes, trusses, paneling or chancel fur-
nishing shall be allowed.
807.4.3 Group E. The requirements in Sections 807.4.3.1
and 807.4.3.2 shall apply to occupancies in Group E.
807.4.3.1 Storage in corridors and lobbies. Clothing
and personal effects shall not be stored in corridors and
lobbies.
Exceptions:
1 . Corridors protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
2. Corridors protected by an approved smoke
detection system installed in accordance with
Section 907.
3. Storage in metal lockers, provided the mini-
mum required egress width is maintained.
807.4.3.2 Artwork. Artwork and teaching materials
shall be limited on the walls of corridors to not more than
20 percent of the wall area.
807.4.4 Group 1-4, day care facilities. The requirements in
Sections 807.4.4.1 and 807.4.4.2 shall apply to day care
facilities classified in Group 1-4.
807.4.4.1 Storage in corridors and lobbies. Clothing
and personal effects shall not be stored in corridors and
lobbies.
Exceptions:
1 . Corridors protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
2; Corridors protected by an approved smoke
detection system installed in accordance with
Section 907.
3. Storage in metal lockers, provided the mini-
mum required egress width is maintained.
807.4.4.2 Artwork. Artwork and teaching materials
shall be limited on walls of corridors to not more than 20
percent of the wall area.
SECTION 808
FURNISHINGS OTHER THAN UPHOLSTERED
FURNITURE AND MATTRESSES OR DECORATIVE
MATERIALS IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
808.1 Wastebaskets in Group 1-3, detention and correction
facilities. Wastebaskets and other waste containers, including
their lids, located in Group 1-3 detention and correction facili-
ties shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or of
materials that meet a peak rate of heat release not exceeding
300 kW/m2 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1354 at
an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m^ in the horizontal orientation.
Metal wastebaskets and other metal waste containers with a
capacity of 20 gallons (75.7 L) or more shall be fisted in accor-
dance with UL 1315 and shall be provided with a
noncombustible lid.
808.2 Signs. Foam plastic signs that are not affixed to interior
building surfaces shall have a maximum heat release rate of
150 kW when tested in accordance with UL 1975.
Exception: Where the aggregate area of foam plastic signs
is less than 10 percent of the floor area or wall area of the
room or space in which the signs are located, whichever is
less, subject to the approval of the fire code official.
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64 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
CHAPTER 9
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
SECTION 901
GENERAL
901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall specify where
fire protection systems are required and shall apply to the
design, installation, inspection, operation, testing and mainte-
nance of all fire protection systems.
901.2 Construction documents. The fire code official shall
have the authority to require construction documents and cal-
culations for all fire protection systems and to require permits
be issued for the installation, rehabilitation or modification of
any fire protection system. Construction documents for fire
protection systems shall be submitted for review and approval
prior to system installation.
901.2.1 Statement of compliance. Before requesting final
approval of the installation, where required by the fire code
official, the installing contractor shall furnish a written
statement to the fire code official that the subject fire protec-
tion system has been installed in accordance with approved
plans and has been tested in accordance with the manufac-
turer's specifications and the appropriate installation stan-
dard. Any deviations from the design standards shall be
noted and copies of the approvals for such deviations shall
be attached to the written statement.
901.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section
105.6 and 105.7.
901.4 Installation. Fire protection systems shall be maintained
in accordance with the original installation standards for that
system. Required systems shall be extended, altered, or aug-
mented as necessary to maintain and continue protection
whenever the building is altered, remodeled or added to. Alter-
ations to fire protection systems shall be done in accordance
with applicable standards.
901.4.1 Required fire protection systems. Fire protection
systems required by this code or the International Building
Code shall be installed, repaired, operated, tested and main-
tained in accordance with this code.
901.4.2 Nonrequired fire protection systems. Any fire
protection system or portion thereof not required by this
code or the International Building Code shall be allowed to
be furnished for partial or complete protection provided
such installed system meets the requirements of this code
and the International Building Code.
901.4.3 Additional fire protection systems. In occupan-
cies of a hazardous nature, where special hazards exist in
addition to the normal hazards of the occupancy, or where
the fire code official determines that access for fire appara-
tus is unduly difficult, the fire code official shall have the
authority to require additional safeguards. Such safeguards
include, but shall not be limited to, the following: automatic
fire detection systems, fire alarm systems, automatic
fire-extinguishing systems, standpipe systems, or portable
or fixed extinguishers. Fire protection equipment required
under this section shall be installed in accordance with this
code and the applicable referenced standards.
901.4.4 Appearance of equipment. Any device that has the
physical appearance of life safety or fire protection equip-
ment but that does not perform that life safety or fire protec-
tion function, shall be prohibited.
901.5 Installation acceptance testing. Fire detection and
alarm systems, fire-extinguishing systems, fire hydrant sys-
tems, fire standpipe systems, fire pump systems, private fire
service mains and all other fire protection systems and appurte-
nances thereto shall be subject to acceptance tests as contained
in the installation standards and as approved by the fire code
official. The fire code official shall be notified before any
required acceptance testing.
901.5.1 Occupancy. It shall be unlawful to occupy any por-
tion of a building or structure until the required fire detec-
tion, alarm and suppression systems have been tested and
approved.
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire detection,
alarm and extinguishing systems shall be maintained in an
operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or
repaired where defective. Nonrequired fire protection systems
and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or
removed.
901.6.1 Standards. Fire protection systems shall be
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the ref-
erenced standards listed in Table 901.6.1.
TABLE 901 .6.1
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE STANDARDS
SYSTEM
STANDARD
Portable fire extinguishers
NFPA 10
Carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing system
NFPA 12
Halon 1301 fire-extinguishing systems
NFPA 12A
Dry-chemical extinguishing systems
NFPA 17
Wet-chemical extinguishing systems
NFPA 17A
Water-based fire protection systems
NFPA 25
Fire alarm systems
NFPA 72
Water-mist systems
NFPA 750
Clean-agent extinguishing systems
NFPA 2001
901.6.2 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests and
maintenance required by the referenced standards shall be
maintained on the premises for a minimum of three years and
shall be copied to the fire code official upon request.
901.6.2.1 Records information. Initial records shall
include the name of the installation contractor, type of com-
ponents installed, manufacturer of the components, location
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
65
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
and number of components installed per floor. Records shall
also include the manufacturers' operation and maintenance
instruction manuals. Such records shall be maintained on
the premises.
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection
system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code
official shall be notified immediately and, where required by
the fire code official, the building shall either be evacuated or
an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left
unprotected by the shut down until the fire protection system
has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with at least
one approved means for notification of the fire department and
their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the pro-
tected premises and keep watch for fires.
901.7.1 Impairment coordinator. The building owner
shall assign an impairment coordinator to comply with the
requirements of this section. In the absence of a specific
designee, the owner shall be considered the impairment
coordinator.
901.7.2 Tag required. A tag shall be used to indicate that a
system, or portion thereof, has been removed from service.
901.7.3 Placement of tag. The tag shall be posted at each
fire department connection, system control valve, fire alarm
control unit, fire alarm annunciator and fire command cen-
ter, indicating which system, or part thereof, has been
removed from service. The fire code official shall specify
where the tag is to be placed.
901.7.4 Preplanned impairment programs. Preplanned
impairments shall be authorized by the impairment coordi-
nator. Before authorization is given, a designated individual
shall be responsible for verifying that all of the following
procedures have been implemented:
1 . The extent and expected duration of the impairment
have been determined.
2. The areas or buildings involved have been inspected
and the increased risks determined.
3. Recommendations have been submitted to manage-
ment or building owner/manager.
4. The fire department has been notified.
5. The insurance carrier, the alarm company, building
owner/manager, and other authorities having juris-
diction have been notified.
6. The supervisors in the areas to be affected have been
notified.
7. A tag impairment system has been implemented.
8. Necessary tools and materials have been assembled
on the impairment site.
901.7.5 Emergency impairments. When unplanned
impairments occur, appropriate emergency action shall be
taken to minimize potential injury and damage. The impair-
ment coordinator shall implement the steps outlined in Sec-
tion 901. 7.4.
901.7.6 Restoring systems to service. When impaired
equipment is restored to normal working order, the impair-
ment coordinator shall verify that all of the following proce-
dures have been implemented:
1 . Necessary inspections and tests have been conducted
to verify that affected systems are operational.
2. Supervisors have been advised that protection is
restored.
3. The fire department has been advised that protection
is restored.
4. The building owner/manager, insurance carrier,
alarm company and other involved parties have been
advised that protection is restored.
5. The impairment tag has been removed.
901.8 Removal of or tampering with equipment. It shall be
unlawful for any person to remove, tamper with or otherwise
disturb any fire hydrant, fire detection and alarm system, fire
suppression system, or other fire appliance required by this
code except for the purpose of extinguishing fire, training pur-
poses, recharging or making necessary repairs, or when
approved by the fire code official.
901.8.1 Removal of or tampering with appurtenances.
Locks, gates, doors, barricades, chains, enclosures, signs,
tags or seals which have been installed by or at the direction
of the fire code official shall not be removed, unlocked,
destroyed, tampered with or otherwise vandalized in any
manner.
901.9 Recall of fire protection components. Any fire protec-
tion system component regulated by this code that is the subject
of a voluntary or mandatory recall under federal law shall be
replaced with approved, listed components in compliance with
the referenced standards of this code. The fire code official
shall be notified in writing by the building owner when the
recalled component parts have been replaced.
SECTION 902
DEFINITIONS
902.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A fire alarm sys
tem component such as a bell, horn, speaker, light, or text dis-
play that provides audible, tactile, or visible outputs, or any
combination thereof.
ALARM SIGNAL. A signal indicating an emergency requir-
ing immediate action, such as a signal indicative of fire.
ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE. A feature of auto
matic fire detection and alarm systems to reduce unwanted
alarms wherein smoke detectors report alarm conditions for a
minimum period of time, or confirm alarm conditions within a
given time period, after being automatically reset, in order to be
accepted as a valid alarm-initiation signal.
ANNUNCIATOR. A unit containing one or more indicator
lamps, alphanumeric displays, or other equivalent means in
66
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
which each indication provides status information about a cir-
cuit, condition or location.
AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A
notification appliance that alerts by the sense of hearing.
AUTOMATIC. As applied to fire protection devices, is a
device or system providing an emergency function without the
necessity for human intervention and activated as a result of a
predetermined temperature rise, rate of temperature rise, or
combustion products.
AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. An
approved system of devices and equipment which automati-
cally detects a fire and discharges an approved fire-extinguish-
ing agent onto or in the area of a fire.
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM. A sprinkler system,
for fire protection purposes, is an integrated system of under-
ground and overhead piping designed in accordance with fire
protection engineering standards. The system includes a suit-
able water supply. The portion of the system above the ground
is a network of specially sized or hydraulically designed piping
installed in a structure or area, generally overhead, and to
which automatic sprinklers are connected in a systematic pat-
tern. The system is usually activated by heat from a fire and dis-
charges water over the fire area.
AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL. The root mean
square, A-weighted sound pressure level measured over a
24-hour period.
CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A sys
tern supplying carbon dioxide (CO2) from a pressurized vessel
through fixed pipes and nozzles. The system includes a man-
ual- or automatic-actuating mechanism.
CLEAN AGENT. Electrically nonconducting, volatile, or
gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon
evaporation.
CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. A designated
location at a facility staffed by trained personnel on a continu-
ous basis where alarm or supervisory signals are monitored and
facilities are provided for notification of the fire department or
other emergency services.
DELUGE SYSTEM. A sprinkler system employing open
sprinklers attached to a piping system connected to a water sup-
ply through a valve that is opened by the operation of a detec-
tion system installed in the same area as the sprinklers. When
this valve opens, water flows into the piping system and dis-
charges from all sprinklers attached thereto.
DETECTOR, HEAT. A fire detector that senses heat pro-
duced by burning substances. Heat is the energy produced by
combustion that causes substances to rise in temperature.
DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. A powder
composed of small particles, usually of sodium bicarbonate,
potassium bicarbonate, urea-potassium-based bicarbonate,
potassium chloride or monoammonium phosphate, with added
particulate material supplemented by special treatment to pro-
vide resistance to packing, resistance to moisture absorption
(caking) and the proper flow capabilities.
EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEM. A system to provide
indication and warning of emergency situations involving haz-
ardous materials.
EMERGENCY VOICE/ALARM COMMUNICATIONS.
Dedicated manual or automatic facilities for originating and
distributing voice instructions, as well as alert and evacuation
signals pertaining to a fire emergency, to the occupants of a
building.
FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL. See "Manual fire alarm
box."
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT. A system component that
receives inputs from automatic and manual fire alarm devices
and is capable of supplying power to detection devices and
transponder(s) of off-premises transmitter(s). The control unit
is capable of providing a transfer of power to the notification
appliances and transfer of condition to relays of devices.
FIRE ALARM SIGNAL. A signal initiated by a fire
alarm-initiating device such as a manual fire alarm box, auto-
matic fire detector, water-flow switch, or other device whose
activation is indicative of the presence of a fire or fire signature.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. A system or portion of a combina-
tion system consisting of components and circuits arranged to
monitor and annunciate the status of fire alarm or supervisory
signal-initiating devices and to initiate the appropriate
response to those signals.
[B] FIRE AREA. The aggregate floor area enclosed and
bounded by fire walls, fire barriers, exterior walls, or fire-resis-
tance-rated horizontal assemblies of a building.
FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. A device designed to
detect the presence of a fire signature and to initiate action.
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. Approved devices, equip-
ment and systems or combinations of systems used to detect a
fire, activate an alarm, extinguish or control a fire, control or
manage smoke and products of a fire or any combination
thereof.
FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS. Building and fire control
functions that are intended to increase the level of life safety for
occupants or to control the spread of the harmful effects of fire.
FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A special system dis-
charging a foam made from concentrates, either mechanically
or chemically, over the area to be protected.
HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A
fire-extinguishing system using one or more atoms of an ele-
ment from the halogen chemical series: fluorine, chlorine, bro-
mine and iodine.
IMPAIRMENT COORDINATOR. The person responsible
for the maintenance of a particular fire protection system.
INITIATING DEVICE. A system component that originates
transmission of a change-of-state condition, such as in a smoke
detector, manual fire alarm box, or supervisory switch.
MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX. A manually operated device
used to initiate an alarm signal.
MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE. Two or more
single-station alarm devices that can be interconnected such
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
67
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
that actuation of one causes all integral or separate audible
alarms to operate. It also can consist of one single-station alarm
device having connections to other detectors or to a manual fire
alarm box.
MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. Two or more
single-station alarm devices that are capable of interconnection
such that actuation of one causes all integral or separate audible
alarms to operate.
NUISANCE ALARM. An alarm caused by mechanical fail-
ure, malfunction, improper installation, or lack of proper main-
tenance, or an alarm activated by a cause that cannot be
determined.
RECORD DRAWINGS. Drawings ("as builts") that docu-
ment the location of all devices, appliances, wiring, sequences,
wiring methods, and connections of the components of a fire
alarm system as installed.
SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. An assembly incor-
porating the detector, the control equipment, and the
alarm-sounding device in one unit, operated from a power sup-
ply either in the unit or obtained at the point of installation.
[B] SLEEPING UNIT. A room or space in which people
sleep, which can also include permanent provisions for living,
eating, and either sanitation or kitchen facilities but not both.
Such rooms and spaces that are also part of a dwelling unit are
not sleeping units.
SMOKE ALARM. A single- or multiple-station alarm
responsive to smoke and not connected to a system.
SMOKE DETECTOR. A listed device that senses visible or
invisible particles of combustion.
STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF. Standpipe classes
are as follows:
Class I system. A system providing 2 '^-inch (64 mm) hose
connections to supply water for use by fire departments and
those trained in handling heavy fire streams.
Class II system. A system providing IVj-inch (38 mm)
hose stations to supply water for use primarily by the build-
ing occupants or by the fire department during initial
response.
Class III system. A system providing lV2-inch (38 mm)
hose stations to supply water for use by building occupants
and 2V2-inch (64 mm) hose connections to supply a larger
volume of water for use by fire departments and those
trained in handling heavy fire streams.
STANDPIPE, TYPES OF. Standpipe types are as follows:
Automatic dry. A dry standpipe system, normally filled
with pressurized air, that is arranged through the use of a
device, such as a dry pipe valve, to admit water into the sys-
tem piping automatically upon the opening of a hose valve.
The water supply for an automatic dry standpipe system
shall be capable of supplying the system demand.
Automatic wet. A wet standpipe system that has a water
supply that is capable of supplying the system demand auto-
matically.
Manual dry. A dry standpipe system that does not have a
permanent water supply attached to the system. Manual dry
standpipe systems require water from a fire department
pumper to be pumped into the system through the fire
department connection in order to supply the system
demand.
Manual wet. A wet standpipe system connected to a water
supply for the purpose of maintaining water within the sys-
tem but which does not have a water supply capable of deliv-
ering the system demand attached to the system. Manual
wet standpipe systems require water from a fire department
pumper (or the like) to be pumped into the system in order to
supply the system demand.
Semiautomatic dry. A dry standpipe system that is
arranged through the use of a device, such as a deluge valve,
to admit water into the system piping upon activation of a
remote control device located at a hose connection. A
remote control activation device shall be provided at each
hose connection. The water supply for a semiautomatic dry
standpipe system shall be capable of supplying the system
demand.
SUPERVISING STATION. A facility that receives signals
and at which personnel are in attendance at all times to respond
to these signals.
SUPERVISORY SERVICE. The service required to monitor
performance of guard tours and the operative condition of fixed
suppression systems or other systems for the protection of life
and property.
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL. A signal indicating the need of
action in connection with the supervision of guard tours, the
fire suppression systems or equipment, or the maintenance fea-
tures of related systems.
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATING DEVICE. An ini
tiating device such as a valve supervisory switch, water level
indicator, or low-air pressure switch on a dry-pipe sprinkler
system whose change of state signals an off-normal condition
and its restoration to normal of a fire protection or life safety
system; or a need for action in connection with guard tours, fire
suppression systems or equipment, or maintenance features of
related systems.
TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF. Storage of tires where the
area available for storage exceeds 20,000 cubic feet (566 m^).
TROUBLE SIGNAL. A signal initiated by the fire alarm sys-
tem or device indicative of a fault in a monitored circuit or com-
ponent.
VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A
notification appliance that alerts by the sense of sight.
WET-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. A solu-
tion of water and potassium-carbonate-based chemical, potas-
sium-acetate-based chemical or a combination thereof,
forming an extinguishing agent.
WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM. A system or a part
of a system that can transmit and receive signals without the aid
of wire.
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
ZONE. A defined area within the protected premises. A zone
can define an area from which a signal can be received, an area
to which a signal can be sent, or an area in which a form of con-
trol can be executed.
SECTION 903
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
903.1 General. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply
with this section.
903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic
fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904
shall be permitted in lieu of automatic sprinkler protection
where recognized by the applicable standard and approved
by the fire code official.
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the
locations described in this section.
Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications build-
ings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment,
associated electrical power distribution equipment, batter-
ies and standby engines, provided those spaces or areas are
equipped throughout with an automatic fire alarm system
and are separated from the remainder of the building by fire
barriers consisting of not less than 1-hour fire-resis-
tance-rated walls and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated
floor/ceiling assemblies.
903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as
Group A occupancies as provided in this section. For Group
A-1, A-2, A-3, and A-4 occupancies, the automatic sprin-
kler system shall be provided throughout the floor area
where the Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancy is
located, and in all floors between the Group A occupancy
and the level of exit discharge. For Group A-5 occupancies,
the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in the
spaces indicated in Section 903.2.1.5.
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided for Group A-1 occupancies where one
of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115
m2);
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more;
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the
level of exit discharge; or
4. The fire area contains a multitheater complex.
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one
of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m^);
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more;
or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the
level of exit discharge.
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided for Group A-3 occupancies where one
of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115
m2);
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more;
or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the
level of exit discharge.
Exception: Areas used exclusively as partici-
pant sports areas where the main floor area is
located at the same level as the level of exit dis-
charge of the main entrance and exit.
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided for Group A-4 occupancies where one
of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115
m2);
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more;
or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the
level of exit discharge.
Exception: Areas used exclusively as partici-
pant sports areas where the main floor area is
located at the same level as the level of exit dis-
charge of the main entrance and exit.
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided for Group A-5 occupancies in the fol-
lowing areas: concession stands, retail areas, press
boxes, and other accessory use areas in excess of 1,000
square feet (93 m^).
903.2.2 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided for Group E occupancies as follows:
1 . Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000
square feet (1858 m^) in area.
2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings
below the level of exit discharge.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not
required in any fire area or area below the level of
exit discharge where every classroom throughout
the building has at least one exterior exit door at
ground level.
903.2.3 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1
occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. Where a Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square
feet (1115 m2);
2. Where a Group F- 1 fire area is located more than three
stories above grade plane; or
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"
69
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
3. Where the combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas
on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds
24,000 square feet (2230 m^).
903.2.3.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group
F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking
operations in excess of 2,500 square feet in area (232 m^)
which generate finely divided combustible waste or
which use finely divided combustible materials.
903.2.4 Group H. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be
provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in Sec-
tions 903.2.4.1 through 903.2.4.3.
903.2.4.1 General. An automatic sprinkler system shall
be installed in Group H occupancies.
903.2.4.2 Group H-5 occupancies. An automatic sprin-
kler system shall be installed throughout buildings con-
taining Group H-5 occupancies. The design of the
sprinkler system shall not be less than that required under
the International Building Code for the occupancy haz-
ard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.4.2.
Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists
of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the max-
imum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is
13.
TABLE 903.2.4.2
GROUP H-5 SPRINKLER DESIGN CRITERIA
LOCATION
OCCUPANCY HAZARD
CLASSIFICATION
Fabrication areas
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Service corridors
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Storage rooms without dispensing
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Storage rooms with dispensing
Extra Hazard Group 2
Corridors
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
903.2.4.3 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler
system shall be provided in buildings, or portions
thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics
are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities
exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).
903.2.5 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings with a Group I fire area.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3 shall be
allowed in Group I-l facilities.
903.2.6 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occu-
pancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. Where a Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square
feet (1115 m2);
2. Where a Group M fire area is located more than three
stories above grade plane; or
3 . Where the combined area of all Group M fire areas on
all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000
square feet (2230 m^).
903.2.6.1 High-piled storage. An automatic sprinkler
system shall be provided as required in Chapter 23 in all
buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in
high-piled or rack storage arrays.
903.2.7 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided through-
out all buildings with a Group R fire area.
903.2.8 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1
occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet
(1115 m2);
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three sto-
ries above grade plane; or
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all
floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000
square feet (2230 m^).
903.2.8.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be provided throughout all buildings used as
repair garages in accordance with the International
Building Code, as follows:
1 . Buildings two or more stories in height, including
basements, with a fire area containing a repair
garage exceeding 10,000 square feet (929 m^).
2. One-story buildings with a fire area containing a
repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115
m2).
3. Buildings with a repair garage servicing vehicles
parked in the basement.
903.2.8.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures
where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000
cubic feet (566 m^) shall be equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
903.2.9 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed park-
ing garages in accordance with Section 406.4 of the Interna-
tional Building Code or where located beneath other
groups.
Exception: Enclosed, parking garages located beneath
Group R-3 occupancies.
903.2.9.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings
used for storage of commercial trucks or buses where the
fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m^).
903.2.10 Windowless stories in all occupancies. An auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be installed in the locations set
forth in Sections 903.2.10.1 through 903.2.10.1.3.
Exception: Group R-3 and Group U.
903.2.10.1 Stories and basements without openings.
An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in every
story or basement of all buildings where the floor area
exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m^) and where there is
70
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
not provided at least one of the following types of exte-
rior wall openings:
1. Openings below grade that lead directly to ground
level by an exterior stairway complying with Sec-
tion 1009 or an outside ramp complying with Sec-
tion 1010. Openings shall be located in each 50
linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of
exterior wall in the story on at least one side.
2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground
level totaling at least 20 square feet (1.86 m^) in
each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction
thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one
side.
903.2.10.1.1 Opening dimensions and access.
Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less
than 30 inches (762 mm). Such openings shall be
accessible to the fire department from the exterior and
shall not be obstructed in a manner that fire fighting or
rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.
903.2.10.1.2 Openings on one side only. Where
openings in a story are provided on only one side and
the opposite wall of such story is more than 75 feet (22
860 mm) from such openings, the story shall be
equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system or openings as specified above shall
be provided on at least two sides of the story.
903.2.10.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a
basement is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm)
from openings required by Section 903.2.10.1, the
basement shall be equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.10.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish
and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes
extending through three or more floors shall have addi-
tional sprinkler heads installed within such chutes at
alternate floors. Chute sprinklers shall be accessible for
servicing.
903.2.10.3 Buildings 55 feet or more in height. An
automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout
buildings with a floor level having an occupant load of 30
or more that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. Airport control towers.
2. Open parking structures.
3. Occupancies in Group F-2.
903.2.11 During construction. Automatic sprinkler sys-
tems required during construction, alteration and demoli-
tion operations shall be provided in accordance with Section
1413.
903.2.12 Other hazards. Automatic sprinkler protection
shall be provided for the hazards indicated in Sections
903.2.12.1 and 903.2.12.2.
TABLE 903.2.13
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED FDRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
SECTION
SUBJECT
914.2.1
Covered malls
914.3.1
High rise buildings
914.4.1
Atriums
914.5.1
Underground structures
914.6.1
Stages
914.7.1
Special amusement buildings
914.8.2,914.8.5
Aircraft hangars
914.9
Flammable finishes
914.10
Drying rooms
1025.6.2.3
Smoke-protected seating
1208.2
Dry cleaning plants
1208.3
Dry cleaning machines
1504.2
Spray finishing in Group A, E, I or R
1504.4
Spray booths and spray rooms
1505.2
Dip-tank rooms in Group A, I or R
1505.4.1
Dip tanks
1505.9.4
Hardening and tempering tanks
1803.10
HPM facilities
1803.10.1.1
HPM work station exhaust
1803.10.2
HPM gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures
1803.10.3
HPM exit access corridor
1803.10.4
HPM exhaust ducts
1803.10.4.1
HPM noncombustible ducts
1803.10.4.2
HPM combustible ducts
1907.3
Lumber production conveyor enclosures
1908.7
Recycling facility conveyor enclosures
2106.1
Class A and B ovens
2106.2
Class C and D ovens
2209.3.2.6.2
Hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing area canopies
Table 2306.2
Storage fire protection
2306.4
Storage
2703.8.4.1
Gas rooms
2703.8.5.3
Exhausted enclosures
2704.5
Indoor storage of hazardous materials
2705.1.8
Indoor dispensing of hazardous materials
2804.4.1
Aerosol warehouses
2806.3.2
Aerosol display and merchandising areas
2904.5
Storage of more than 1,000 cubic feet of loose
combustible fibers
3306.5.2.1
Storage of smokeless propellant
3306.5.2.3
Storage of small arms primers
(continued)
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
TABLE 903.2.13— continued
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
SECTION
SUBJECT
3404.3.7.5.1
Flammable and combustible liquid storage
rooms
3404.3.8.4
Flammable and combustible liquid storage
warehouses
3405.3.7.3
Flammable and combustible liquid Group H-2
or H-3 areas
3704.1.2
Gas cabinets for highly toxic and toxic gas
3704.1.3
Exhausted enclosures for highly toxic and toxic
gas
3704.2.2.6
Gas rooms for highly toxic and toxic gas
3704.3.3
Outdoor storage for highly toxic and toxic gas
4106.2.2
Exhausted enclosures or gas cabinets for silane
gas
4204.1.1
Pyroxylin plastic storage cabinets
4204.1.3
Pyroxylin plastic storage vaults
4204.2
Pyroxylin plastic storage and manufacturing
903.2.12.1 Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts.
Where required by the International Mechanical Code,
automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts convey-
ing hazardous exhaust, flammable or combustible mate-
rials.
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional
diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
903.2.12.2 Commercial cooking operations. An auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be installed in a commercial
kitchen exhaust hood and duct system where an auto-
matic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section
904.
903.2.13 Other required suppression systems. In addition
to the requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indi-
cated in Table 903 .2.13 also require the installation of a sup-
pression system for certain buildings and areas.
903.3 Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler sys-
tems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sec-
tions 903.3.1 through 903.3.7.
903.3.1 Standards. Sprinkler systems shall be designed
and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1.1,
903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the pro-
visions of this code require that a building or portion
thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers
shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA
13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1.
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers
shall not be required in the following rooms or areas
where such rooms or areas are protected with an
approved automatic fire detection system in accor-
dance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible
or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall
not be omitted from any room merely because it is
damp, of fire-resistance rated construction or contains
electrical equipment.
1 . Any room where the application of water, or
flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire
hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are consid-
ered undesirable because of the nature of the
contents, when approved by the fire code offi-
cial.
3. Generator and transformer rooms separated
from the remainder of the building by walls and
floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having
a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. In rooms or areas that are of noncombustible
construction with wholly noncombustible con-
tents.
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where
allowed in buildings of Group R, up to and including four
stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be
installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R.
903.3.1.2.1 Balconies and decks. Sprinkler protec-
tion shall be provided for exterior balconies, decks
and ground floor patios of dwelling units where the
building is of Type V construction. Sidewall sprin-
klers that are used to protect such areas shall be per-
mitted to be located such that their deflectors are
within 1 inch (25 rmn) to 6 inches (152 mm) below the
structural members and a maximum distance of 14
inches (356 mm) below the deck of the exterior balco-
nies and decks that are constructed of open wood joist
construction.
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where
allowed, automatic sprinkler systems installed in one-
and two-family dwellings shall be installed throughout
in accordance with NFPA 13D.
903.3.2 Quick-response and residential sprinklers.
Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this
code, quick-response or residential automatic sprinklers
shall be installed in the following areas in accordance with
Section 903.3.1 and their listings:
1. Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment
containing patient sleeping units in Group 1-2 in
accordance with the International Building Code.
2. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R and I-l
occupancies.
3. Light-hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA 13.
903.3.3 Obstructed locations. Automatic sprinklers shall
be installed with due regard to obstructions that will delay
activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern. Auto-
matic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered
kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands, or equipment
that exceeds 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Not less than a
3 -foot (914 mm) clearance shall be maintained between
automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible
fibers.
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Exception: Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods
protected with a fire-extinguishing system in accordance
with Section 904.
903.3.4 Actuation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be
automatically actuated unless specifically provided for in
this code.
903.3.5 Water supplies. Water supplies for automatic
sprinkler systems shall comply with this section and the
standards referenced in Section 903.3.1. The potable water
supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance
with the requirements of this section and the International
Plumbing Code.
903.3.5.1 Domestic services. Where the domestic ser-
vice provides the water supply for the automatic sprin-
kler system, the supply shall be in accordance with this
section.
903.3.5.1.1 Limited area sprinkler systems. Lim-
ited area sprinkler systems serving fewer than 20
sprinklers on any single connection are permitted to
be connected to the domestic service where a wet
automatic standpipe is not available. Limited area
sprinkler systems connected to domestic water sup-
plies shall comply with each of the following require-
ments:
1. Valves shall not be installed between the
domestic water riser control valve and the
sprinklers.
Exception: An approved indicating control
valve supervised in the open position in
accordance with Section 903.4.
2. The domestic service shall be capable of sup-
plying the simultaneous domestic demand and
the sprinkler demand required to be hydrauli-
cally calculated by NFPA 13, NFPA 13R or
NFPA 13D.
903.3.5.1.2 Residential combination services. A
single combination water supply shall be allowed pro-
vided that the domestic demand is added to the sprin-
kler demand as required by NFPA 13R.
903.3.5.2 Secondary water supply. A secondary on-site
water supply equal to the hydraulically calculated sprin-
kler demand, including the hose stream requirement,
shall be provided for high-rise buildings in Seismic
Design Category C, D, E or F as determined by the Inter-
national Building Code. The secondary water supply
shall have a duration of not less than 30 minutes as deter-
mined by the occupancy hazard classification in accor-
dance with NFPA 13.
Exception: Existing buildings.
903.3.6 Hose threads. Fire hose threads and fittings used in
connection with automatic sprinkler systems shall be as pre-
scribed by the fire code official.
903.3.7 Fire department connections. The location of fire
department connections shall be approved by the fire code
official.
903.4 Sprinkler system monitoring and alarms. All valves
controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems,
pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pres-
sures, and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be
electrically supervised.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and
two-family dwellings.
2. Limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprin-
klers.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance
with NFPA 1 3R where a common supply main is used
to supply both domestic water and the automatic
sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the
automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
4. Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked
in the open position.
5. Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint
spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in
the open position.
6. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump
engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
7. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and
deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in
the open position.
903.4.1 Signals. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals
shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically trans-
mitted to an approved central station, remote supervising
station or proprietary supervising station as defined in
NFPA 72 or, when approved by the fire code official, shall
sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
Exceptions:
1. Underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes
provided by the municipality or public utility are
not required to be monitored.
2. Backflow prevention device test valves located in
limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall
be locked in the open position. In occupancies
required to be equipped with a fire alarm system,
the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically
supervised by a tamper switch installed in accor-
dance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.
903.4.2 Alarms. Approved audible devices shall be con-
nected to every automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler
water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow
equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest
orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be
provided on the exterior of the building in an approved loca-
tion. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the
automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire
alarm system.
903.4.3 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indi-
cating control valves shall be provided at the point of con-
nection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings.
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903.5 Testing and maintenance. Sprinkler systems shall be
tested and maintained in accordance with Section 901.
903.6 Existing buildings. The provisions of this section are
intended to provide a reasonable degree of safety in existing
structures not complying with the minimum requirements of
the International Building Code by requiring installation of an
automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.6.1 Pyroxylin plastics. All structures occupied for the
manufacture or storage of articles of cellulose nitrate
(pyroxylin) plastic shall be equipped with an approved auto-
matic fire-extinguishing system. Vaults located within
buildings for the storage of raw pyroxylin shall be protected
with an approved automatic sprinkler system capable of dis-
charging 1.66 gallons per minute per square foot (68
L/min/m^) over the area of the vault.
SECTION 904
ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING
SYSTEMS
904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other
than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed,
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provi-
sions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.
904.2 Where required. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems
installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler
systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code offi-
cial. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be consid-
ered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions
allowed by other requirements of this code.
904.2.1 Commercial hood and duct systems. Each
required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system
required by Section 610 to have a Type I hood shall be pro-
tected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing sys-
tem installed in accordance with this code.
904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall
be installed in accordance with this section.
904.3.1 Electrical wiring. Electrical wiring shall be in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
904.3.2 Actuation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems
shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual
means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.11.1.
904.3.3 System interlocking. Automatic equipment inter-
locks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers,
window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents,
and other features necessary for proper operation of the
fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by
the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.
904.3.4 Alarms and warning signs. Where alarms are
required to indicate the operation of automatic fire-extin-
guishing systems, distinctive audible, visible alarms and
warning signs shall be provided to warn of pending agent
discharge. Where exposure to automatic-extinguishing
agents poses a hazard to persons and a delay is required to
ensure the evacuation of occupants before agent discharge,
a separate warning signal shall be provided to alert occu-
pants once agent discharge has begun. Audible signals shall
be in accordance with Section 907.10.2.
904.3.5 Monitoring. Where a building fire alarm system is
installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be
monitored by the building fire alarm system in accordance
with NFPA 72.
904.4 Inspection and testing. Automatic fire-extinguishing
systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the
provisions of this section prior to acceptance.
904.4.1 Inspection. Prior to conducting final acceptance
tests, the following items shall be inspected:
1 . Hazard specification for consistency with design haz-
ard.
2. Type, location and spacing of automatic- and man-
ual-initiating devices.
3. Size, placement and position of nozzles or discharge
orifices.
4. Location and identification of audible and visible
alarm devices.
5. Identification of devices with proper designations.
6. Operating instructions.
904.4.2 Alarm testing. Notification appliances, connec-
tions to fire alarm systems, and connections to approved
supervising stations shall be tested in accordance with this
section and Section 907 to verify proper operation.
904.4.2.1 Audible and visible signals. The audibility
and visibility of notification appliances signaling agent
discharge or system operation, where required, shall be
verified.
904.4.3 Monitor testing. Connections to protected pre-
mises and supervising station fire alarm systems shall be
tested to verify proper identification and retransmission of
alarms from automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
904.5 Wet-chemical systems. Wet-chemical extinguishing
systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected
and tested in accordance with NFPA 17A and their listing.
904.5.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested
for proper operation at 6-month intervals. Tests shall
include a check of the detection system, alarms and releas-
ing devices, including manual stations and other associated
equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed
and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pres-
sure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure.
The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed
and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer.
904.5.2 Fusible link maintenance. Fixed tempera-
ture-sensing elements shall be maintained to ensure proper
operation of the system.
904.6 Dry-chemical systems. Dry-chemical extinguishing
systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected
and tested in accordance with NFPA 17 and their listing.
904.6.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested
for proper operation at 6-month intervals. Tests shall
include a check of the detection system, alarms and releas-
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ing devices, including manual stations and other associated
equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed,
and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pres-
sure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure.
The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed
and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer.
904.6.2 Fusible link maintenance. Fixed tempera-
ture-sensing elements shall be maintained to ensure proper
operation of the system.
904.7 Foam systems. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be
installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in
accordance with NFPA 11, NFPA 11 A and NFPA 16 and their
listing.
904.7.1 System test. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be
inspected and tested at intervals in accordance with NFPA
25.
904.8 Carbon dioxide systems. Carbon dioxide extinguishing
systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected
and tested in accordance with NFPA 12 and their listing.
904.8.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested
for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.8.2 High-pressure cylinders. High-pressure cylinders
shall be weighed and the date of the last hydrostatic test shall
be verified at 6-month intervals. Where a container shows a
loss in original content of more than 10 percent, the cylinder
shall be refilled or replaced.
904.8.3 Low-pressure containers. The liquid-level gauges
of low-pressure containers shall be observed at one-week
intervals. Where a container shows a content loss of more
than 10 percent, the container shall be refilled to maintain
the minimum gas requirements.
904.8.4 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at
12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be
replaced or tested. At five-year intervals, all hoses shall be
tested.
904.8.4.1 Test procedure. Hoses shall be tested at not
less than 2,500 pounds per square inch (psi) (17 238 kPa)
for high-pressure systems and at not less than 900 psi
(6206 kPa) for low-pressure systems.
904.8.5 Auxiliary equipment. Auxiliary and supplemen-
tary components, such as switches, door and window
releases, interconnected valves, damper releases and sup-
plementary alarms, shall be manually operated at 12-month
intervals to ensure that such components are in proper oper-
ating condition.
904.9 Halon systems. Halogenated extinguishing systems
shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested
in accordance with NFPA 12A and their listing.
904.9.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested
for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.9.2 Containers. The extinguishing agent quantity and
pressure of containers shall be checked at 6-month intervals.
Where a container shows a loss in original weight of more
than 5 percent or a loss in original pressure (adjusted for
temperature) of more than 10 percent, the container shall be
refilled or replaced. The weight and pressure of the con-
tainer shall be recorded on a tag attached to the container.
904.9.3 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at
12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be
replaced or tested. At 5-year intervals, all hoses shall be
tested.
904.9.3.1 Test procedure. For Halon 1301 systems,
hoses shall be tested at not less than 1,500 psi (10 343
kPa) for 600 psi (4137 kPa) charging pressure systems
and not less than 900 psi (6206 kPa) for 360 psi (2482
kPa) charging pressure systems. For Halon 1211
hand-hose line systems, hoses shall be tested at 2,500 psi
(17 238 kPa) for high-pressure systems and 900 psi
(6206 kPa) for low-pressure systems.
904.9.4 Auxiliary equipment. Auxiliary and supplemen-
tary components, such as switches, door and window
releases, interconnected valves, damper releases and sup-
plementary alarms, shall be manually operated at 12-month
intervals to ensure such components are in proper operating
condition.
904.10 Clean-agent systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing
systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected
and tested in accordance with NFPA 2001 and their listing.
904.10.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested
for proper operation at 12-month intervals.
904.10.2 Containers. The extinguishing agent quantity and
pressure of the containers shall be checked at 6-month inter-
vals. Where a container shows a loss in original weight of
more than 5 percent or a loss in original pressure, adjusted
for temperature, of more than 10 percent, the container shall
be refilled or replaced. The weight and pressure of the con-
tainer shall be recorded on a tag attached to the container.
904.10.3 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at
12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be
replaced or tested. All hoses shall be tested at 5-year inter-
vals.
904.11 Commercial cooking systems. The automatic
fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems
shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial
cooking equipment and exhaust systems of the type and
arrangement protected. Preengineered automatic dry- and
wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in accor-
dance with UL 300 and Usted and labeled for the intended
application. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing sys-
tems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for
commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed
in accordance with this code, its listing and the manufacturer's
installation instructions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems
of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the
referenced standard indicated, as follows:
1. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12.
2. Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.
3. Foam-water sprinkler system or foam- water spray sys-
tems, NFPA 16.
4. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17.
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5. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17 A.
Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculat-
ing systems that are tested in accordance with UL 710B and
listed, labeled and installed in accordance with Section
304. 1 of the International Mechanical Code.
904.11.1 Manual system operation. A manual actuation
device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the
cooking area a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) and a maxi-
mum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaust system.
The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than
48 inches (1200 mm) nor less than 42 inches (1067 mm)
above the floor and shall clearly identify the hazard pro-
tected. The manual actuation shall require a maximum force
of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximum movement of 14
inches (356 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be
required to be equipped with manual actuation means.
904.11.2 System interconnection. The actuation of the fire
extinguishing system shall automatically shut down the fuel
or electrical power supply to the cooking equipment. The
fuel and electrical supply reset shall be manual.
904.11.3 Carbon dioxide systems. When carbon dioxide
systems are used, there shall be a nozzle at the top of the ven-
tilating duct. Additional nozzles that are symmetrically
arranged to give uniform distribution shall be installed
within vertical ducts exceeding 20 feet (6096 mm) and hori-
zontal ducts exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Dampers shall
be installed at either the top or the bottom of the duct and
shall be arranged to operate automatically upon activation
of the fire-extinguishing system. When the damper is
installed at the top of the duct, the top nozzle shall be imme-
diately below the damper. Automatic carbon dioxide
fire-extinguishing systems shall be sufficiently sized to pro-
tect all hazards venting through a common duct simulta-
neously.
904.11.3.1 Ventilation system. Commercial-type cook-
ing equipment protected by an automatic carbon dioxide
extinguishing system shall be arranged to shut off the
ventilation system upon activation.
904.11.4 Special provisions for automatic sprinkler sys-
tems. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting commer-
cial-type cooking equipment shall be supplied from a
separate, readily accessible, indicating-type control valve
that is identified.
904.11.4.1 Listed sprinklers. Sprinklers used for the
protection of fryers shall be tested in accordance with UL
199E, listed for that application and installed in accor-
dance with their listing.
904.11.5 Portable fire extinguishers for commercial
cooking equipment. Portable fire extinguishers shall be
provided within a 30-foot (9144 mm) travel distance of
commercial-type cooking equipment. Cooking equipment
involving vegetable or animal oils and fats shall be protected
by a Class K rated portable extinguisher.
904.11.5.1 Portable fire extinguishers for solid fuel
cooking appliances. All solid fuel cooking appliances,
whether or not under a hood, with fireboxes 5 cubic feet
(0.14 m^) or less in volume shall have a minimum
2.5-gallon (9 L) or two 1.5-gallon (6 L) Class K
wet-chemical portable fire extinguishers located in
accordance with Section 904.11.5.
904.11.5.2 Class K portable fire extinguishers for
deep fat fryers. When hazard areas include deep fat fry-
ers, listed Class K portable fire extinguishers shall be
provided as follows:
1 . For up to four fryers having a maximum cooking
medium capacity of 80 pounds (36.3 kg) each: One
Class K portable fire extinguisher of a minimum
1.5 gallon ( 6 L) capacity.
2. For every additional group of four fryers having a
maximum cooking medium capacity of 80 pounds
(36.3 kg) each: One additional Class K portable
fire extinguisher of a minimum 1 .5 gallon (6 L)
capacity shall be provided.
3. For individual fryers exceeding 6 square feet (0.55
m^) in surface area: Class K portable fire
extinguishers shall be installed in accordance with
the extinguisher manufacturer's recommenda-
tions.
904.11.6 Operations and maintenance. Commercial
cooking systems shall be operated and maintained in accor-
dance with this section.
904.11.6.1 Ventilation system. The ventilation system
in connection with hoods shall be operated at the
required rate of air movement, and classified grease fil-
ters shall be in place when equipment under a kitchen
grease hood is used.
904.11.6.2 Grease extractors. Where grease extractors
are installed, they shall be operated when the commer-
cial-type cooking equipment is used.
904.11.6.3 Cleaning. Hoods, grease-removal devices,
fans, ducts and other appurtenances shall be cleaned at
intervals necessary to prevent the accumulation of
grease. Cleanings shall be recorded, and records shall
state the extent, time and date of cleaning. Such records
shall be maintained on the premises.
904.11.6.4 Extinguishing system service. Automatic
fire-extinguishing systems shall be serviced at least
every 6 months and after activation of the system.
Inspection shall be by qualified individuals, and a certifi-
cate of inspection shall be forwarded to the fire code offi-
cial upon completion.
904.11.6.5 Fusible link and sprinkler head replace-
ment. Fusible links and automatic sprinkler heads shall
be replaced at least annually, and other protection
devices shall be serviced or replaced in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions.
Exception: Frangible bulbs are not required to be
replaced annually.
!•
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SECTION 905
STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
905.1 General. Standpipe systems shall be provided in new
buildings and structures in accordance with this section. Fire
hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall
be approved and shall be compatible with fire department hose
threads. The location of fire department hose connections shall
be approved. In buildings used for high-piled combustible stor-
age, fire protection shall be in accordance with Chapter 23.
905.2 Installation standard. Standpipe systems shall be
installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14.
905.3 Required installations. Standpipe systems shall be
installed where required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.7
and in the locations indicated in Sections 905.4, 905.5 and
905.6. Standpipe systems are allowed to be combined with
automatic sprinkler systems.
Exception: Standpipe systems are not required in Group
R-3 occupancies.
905.3.1 Building height. Class III standpipe systems shall
be installed throughout buildings where the floor level of the
highest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above
the lowest level of the fire department vehicle access, or
where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than
30 feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire depart-
ment vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
903.3.1.2.
2. Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open
parking garages where the highest floor is located
not more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) above the low-
est level of fire department vehicle access.
3. Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open
parking garages that are subject to freezing tem-
peratures, provided that the hose connections are
located as required for Class II standpipes in accor-
dance with Section 905.5.
4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system.
5. In determining the lowest level of fire department
vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider:
5.1. Recessed loading docks for four vehicles
or less, and
5.2. Conditions where topography makes
access from the fire department vehicle to
the building impractical or impossible.
905.3.2 Group A. Class I automatic wet standpipes shall be
provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an
occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons.
Exceptions:
1. Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces.
2. Class I automatic dry and semiautomatic dry
standpipes or manual wet standpipes are allowed
in buildings where the highest floor surface used
for human occupancy is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or
less above the lowest level of fire department vehi-
cle access.
905.3.3 Covered mall buildings. A covered mall building
shall be equipped throughout with a standpipe system
where required by Section 905.3.1. Covered mall buildings
not required to be equipped with a standpipe system by Sec-
tion 905 .3.1 shall be equipped with Class I hose connections
connected to a system sized to deliver water at 250 gallons
per minute (946.4 L/min) at the most hydraulically remote
outlet. Hose connections shall be provided at each of the fol-
lowing locations:
1. Within the mall at the entrance to each exit passage-
way or corridor.
2. At each floor-level landing within enclosed stairways
opening directly on the mall.
3. At exterior public entrances to the mall.
905.3.4 Stages. Stages greater than 1,000 square feet (93
m^) in area shall be equipped with a Class III wet standpipe
system with IVj-inch and 2V2-inch (38 mm and 64 mm)
hose connections on each side of the stage.
Exception: Where the building or area is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, a IV2
inch (38 mm) hose connection shall be installed in accor-
dance with NFR\ 13 or in accordance with NFR\ 14 for
Class II or III standpipes.
905.3.4.1 Hose and cabinet. The 1 Vj-inch (38 mm) hose
connections shall be equipped with sufficient lengths of
1 V2-inch (38 mm) hose to provide fire protection for the
stage area. Hose connections shall be equipped with an
approved adjustable fog nozzle and be mounted in a cabi-
net or on a rack.
905.3.5 Underground buildings. Underground buildings
shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic wet or
manual wet standpipe system.
905.3.6 Helistops and heliports. Buildings with a helistop
or heliport that are equipped with a standpipe shall extend
the standpipe to the roof level on which the helistop or heli-
port is located in accordance with Section 1107.5.
905.3.7 Marinas and boatyards. Marinas and boatyards
shall be equipped throughout with standpipe systems in
accordance with NFPA 303.
905.4 Location of Class I standpipe hose connections. Class
I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the fol-
lowing locations:
1 . In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be
provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose
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connections shall be located at an intermediate floor
level landing between floors, unless otherwise approved
by the fire code official.
2. On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a
horizontal exit.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal
exit are reachable from exit stairway hose connec-
tions by a 30-foot (9 144 mm) hose stream from a noz-
zle attached to 100 feet (30480 mm) of hose, a hose
connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit.
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit
passageway to other areas of a building.
4. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior pub-
lic entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance
from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall.
5 . Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in
12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), each standpipe
shall be provided with a hose connection located either
on the roof or at the highest landing of a stairway with
stair access to the roof. An additional hose connection
shall be provided at the top of the most hydraulically
remote standpipe for testing purposes.
6. Where the most remote portion of a nonsprinklered floor
or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose
connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered
floor or story is more than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a
hose connection, the fire code official is authorized to
require that additional hose connections be provided in
approved locations.
905.4.1 Protection. Risers and laterals of Class I standpipe
systems not located within an enclosed stairway or pressur-
ized enclosure shall be protected by a degree of fire resis-
tance equal to that required for vertical enclosures in the
building in which they are located.
Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system, laterals that are not
located within an enclosed stairway or pressurized
enclosure are not required to be enclosed within
fire-resistance-rated construction.
905.4.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one
standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be intercon-
nected in accordance with NFPA 14.
905.5 Location of Class II standpipe hose connections.
Class 11 standpipe hose connections shall be accessible and
shall be located so that all portions of the building are within 30
feet (9144 mm) of a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of
hose.
905.5.1 Groups A-1 and A-2. In Group A-1 and A-2 occu-
pancies with occupant loads of more than 1,000, hose con-
nections shall be located on each side of any stage, on each
side of the rear of the auditorium, on each side of the bal-
cony, and on each tier of dressing rooms.
905.5.2 Protection. Fire-resistance-rated protection of ris-
ers and laterals of Class II standpipe systems is not required.
905.5.3 Class II system 1-incli hose. A minimum 1-inch
(25 mm) hose shall be allowed to be used for hose stations in
light-hazard occupancies where investigated and listed for
this service and where approved by the fire code official.
905.6 Location of Class III standpipe hose connections.
Class III standpipe systems shall have hose connections
located as required for Class I standpipes in Section 905.4 and
shall have Class II hose connections as required in Section
905.5.
905.6.1 Protection. Risers and laterals of Class HI
standpipe systems shall be protected as required for Class I
systems in accordance with Section 905.4.1.
905.6.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one
Class III standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be inter-
connected at the bottom.
905.7 Cabinets. Cabinets containing fire-fighting equipment,
such as standpipes, fire hose, fire extinguishers or fire depart-
ment valves, shall not be blocked from use or obscured from
view.
905.7.1 Cabinet equipment identification. Cabinets shall
be identified in an approved manner by a permanently
attached sign with letters not less than 2 inches (51 mm)
high in a color that contrasts with the background color,
indicating the equipment contained therein.
Exceptions:
1 . Doors not large enough to accommodate a written
sign shall be marked with a permanently attached
pictogram of the equipment contained therein.
2. Doors that have either an approved visual identifi-
cation clear glass panel or a complete glass door
panel are not required to be marked.
905.7.2 Locking cabinet doors. Cabinets shall be
unlocked.
Exceptions:
1. Visual identification panels of glass or other
approved transparent frangible material that is eas-
ily broken and allows access.
2. Approved locking arrangements.
3. Group 1-3 occupancies.
905.8 Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance
with NFPA 14.
905.9 Valve supervision. Valves controlling water supplies
shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the
normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal
at the supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a
fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted
to the control unit.
Exceptions:
1 . Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway
boxes provided by the municipality or public utility
do not require supervision.
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1
2. Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as
provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a
fire alarm system. .
905.10 During construction. Standpipe systems required dur-
ing construction and demolition operations shall be provided in
accordance with Section 1413.
905.11 Existing buildings. Existing structures with occupied
floors located more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) above or below
the lowest level of fire department access shall be equipped
with standpipes installed in accordance with Section 905. The
standpipes shall have 4n approved fire department connection
with hose connections at each floor level above or below the
lowest level of fire department access. The fire code official is
authorized to approve the installation of manual standpipe sys-
tems to achieve compliance with this section where the
responding fire department is capable of providing the required
hose flow at the highest standpipe outlet.
SECTION 906
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be
installed in the following locations.
1. In new and existing Group A, B, E, F, H, I , M, R-1, R-2,
R-4 and S occupancies.
Exception: In new and existing Group A, B and E
occupancies equipped throughout with quick-
response sprinklers, portable fire extinguishers shall
be required only in locations specified in Items 2
through 6.
2 . Within 30 feet (9 1 44 mm) of commercial cooking equip-
ment.
«
/ 3. In areas where flammable or combustible liquids are
\ stored, used or dispensed.
*«4. On each floor of structures under construction, except
' Group R-3 occupancies, in accordance with Section
] 1415.1.
^.5 . Where required by the sections indicated in Table 906. 1 .
(p. Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to labora-
i tories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where
[ required by the fire code official.
906,.2 General requirements. Portable fire extinguishers shall
be s elected, installed and maintained in accordance with this
sectjion and NFPA 10.
Exceptions:
1. The travel distance to reach an extinguisher shall not
apply to the spectator seating portions of Group A-5
i occupancies.
' 2. Thirty-day inspections shall not be required and
maintenance shall be allowed to be once every three
years for dryTchemical or halogenated agent portable
fire extinguishers that are supervised by a listed and
approved electronic monitoring device, provided that
all of the following conditions are met:
2.1. Electronic monitoring shall confirm that
extinguishers are properly positioned, prop-
erly charged and unobstructed.
2.2. Loss of power or circuit continuity to the elec-
tronic monitoring device shall initiate a trou-
ble signal.
2.3. The extinguishers shall be installed inside of a
building or cabinet in a noncorrosive environ-
ment.
2.4. Electronic monitoring devices and supervi-
sory circuits shall be tested every three years
when extinguisher maintenance is performed.
2.5. A written log of required hydrostatic test dates
for extinguishers shall be maintained by the
owner to ensure that hydrostatic tests are con-
ducted at the frequency required by NFPA 10.
906.3 Size and distribution. For occupancies that involve pri-
marily Class A fire hazards, the minimum sizes and distribu-
tion shall comply with Table 906.3(1). Fire extinguishers for
occupancies involving flammable or combustible liquids with
depths of less than or equal to 0.25-inch (6.35 mm) shall be
selected and placed in accordance with Table 906.3(2). Fire
extinguishers for occupancies involving flammable or com-
bustible liquids with a depth of greater than 0.25-inch (6.35
nmi) or involving combustible metals shall be selected and
placed in accordance with NFPA 10. Extinguishers for Class C
fire hazards shall be selected and placed on the basis of the
anticipated Class A or Class B hazard.
906.4 Cooking grease fires. Fire extinguishers provided for
the protection of cooking grease fires shall be of an approved
type compatible with the automatic fire-extinguishing system
agent and in accordance with Section 904.11.5.
906.5 Conspicuous location. Portable fire extinguishers shall
be located in conspicuous locations where they will be readily
accessible and inmiediately available for use. These locations
shall be along normal paths of travel, unless the fire code offi-
cial determines that the hazard posed indicates the need for
placement away from normal paths of travel.
906.6 Unobstructed and unobscured. Portable fire
extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view. In
rooms or areas in which visual obstruction cannot be com-
pletely avoided, means shall be provided to indicate the loca-
tions of extinguishers.
906.7 Hangers and brackets. Hand-held portable fire
extinguishers, not housed in cabinets, shall be installed on the
hangers or brackets supplied. Hangers or brackets shall be
securely anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
906.8 Cabinets. Cabinets used to house portable fire
extinguishers shall not be locked.
Exceptions:
1. Where portable fire extinguishers subject to mali-
cious use or damage are provided with a means of
ready access.
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
TABLE 906.1
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
SECTION
SUBJECT
303.5
Asphalt kettles
307.5
Open burning
308.4
Open flames-torches
309.4
Powered industrial trucks
1105.2
Aircraft towing vehicles
1105.3
Aircraft welding apparatus
1105.4
Aircraft fuel-servicing tank vehicles
1105.5
Aircraft hydrant fuel- servicing vehicles
1105.6
Aircraft fuel-dispensing stations
1107.7
Heliports and helistops
1208.4
Dry cleaning plants
1415.1
Buildings under construction or demolition
1417.3
Roofing operations
1504.4.1
Spray-finishing operations
1505.4.2
Dip-tank operations
1506.4.2
Powder-coating areas
1904.2
Lumberyards/woodworking facilities
1908.8
Recycling facilities
1909.5
Exterior lumber storage
2003.5
Organic-coating areas
2106.3
Industrial ovens
2205.5
Motor fuel-dispensing facilities
2210.6.4
Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities
2211.6
Repair garages
2306.10
Rack storage
2404.12
Tents, canopies and membrane structures
2508.2
Tire rebuilding/storage
2604.2.6
Welding and other hot work
2903.6
Combustible fibers
3308.11
Fireworks
3403.2.1
Flammable and combustible liquids, general
3404.3.3.1
Indoor storage of flammable and combustible liquids
3404.3.7.5.2
Liquid storage rooms for flammable and combustible
liquids
3405.4.9
Solvent distillation units
3406.2.7
Farms and construction sites — flammable and
combustible liquids storage
3406.4.10.1
Bulk plants and terminals for flammable and
combustible hquids
3406.5.4.5
Commercial, industrial, governmental or
manufacturing establishments — fuel dispensing
3406.6.4
Tank vehicles for flammable and combustible liquids
3606.5.7
Flammable solids
3808.2
LP-gas
2. In Group 1-3 occupancies and in mental health areas
in Group 1-2 occupancies, access to portable fire
extinguishers shall be permitted to be locked or to be
located in staff locations provided the staff has keys.
906.9 Height above floor. Portable fire extinguishers having a
gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed
so that its top is not more than 5 feet ( 1 524 mm) above the floor.
Hand-held portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight
exceeding 40 pounds (18 kg) shall be installed so that its top is
not more than 3.5 feet (1067 mm) above the floor. The clear-
ance between the floor and the bottom of installed hand-held
extinguishers shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm).
906.10 Wheeled units. Wheeled fire extinguishers shall be
conspicuously located in a designated location.
TABLE 906.3(1)
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR CLASS A FIRE HAZARDS
LIGHT (Low)
HAZARD
OCCUPANCY
ORDINARY
(Moderate)
HAZARD
OCCUPANCY
EXTRA (High)
HAZARD
OCCUPANCY
Minimum
Rated Single
Extinguisher
2-A'=
2-A
4-A^
Maximum
Floor Area Per
Unit of A
3,000 ,
square feet
1,500
square feet
1,000
square feet
Maximum
Floor Area For
Extinguisher''
11,250
square feet
11,250
square feet
11,250
square feet
Maximum
Travel Distance
to Extinguisher
75 feet
75 feet
75 feet
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^, 1 gallon = 3.785 L. ,
a. Two 2.5-gallon water-type extinguishers shall be deemed the equivalent c-f
one 4-A rated extinguisher. /
b. Annex E.3.3 of NFPA 10 provides more details concerning application of t^^'ie
maximum floor area criteria. •
c. Two water-type extinguishers each with a 1-A rating shall be deemed tihe
equivalent of one 2-A rated extinguisher for Light (Low) Hazard Occupan-
cies.
TABLE 906.3(2)
FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS WITH DEPTHS OfF
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 0.25-INCH
TYPE OF HAZARD
BASIC MINIMUM
EXTINGUISHER
RATING
1 1
MAXIMUM TRAVEL
DISTANCE TO
EXTINGUISHERS
(feet)
Light (Low)
5-B
10-B
30
50 •
Ordinary (Moderate)
10-B
20-B
30
50
Extra (High)
40-B
< 80-B
30
50
t
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NOTE. For requirements on water-soluble flammable liquids and alternative
sizing criteria, see Section 4.3 of NFPA 10.
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SECTION 907
FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
907.1 General. This section covers the apphcation, installa-
tion, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and
their components in new and existing buildings and structures.
The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new build-
ings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.3 are
applicable to existing buildings and structures.
907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction docu-
ments for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review
and approval prior to system installation. Construction doc-
uments shall include, but not be limited to, all of the follow-
ing:
1 . A floor plan which indicates the use of all rooms.
2. Locations of alarm-initiating and notification appli-
ances.
3. Alarm control and trouble signaling equipment.
4. Annunciation.
5. Power connection.
6. Battery calculations.
7. Conductor type and sizes.
8. Voltage drop calculations.
9. Manufacturers, model numbers and listing informa-
tion for equipment, devices and materials.
10. Details of ceiling height and construction.
1 1 . The interface of fire safety control functions.
907.1.2 Equipment. Systems and their components shall be
listed and approved for the purpose for which they are
installed.
907.2 Where required — new buildings and structures. An
approved manual, automatic or manual and automatic fire
alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this
code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and
structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through
907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with
Section 907.10, unless other requirements are provided by
another section of this code. Where automatic sprinkler protec-
tion installed in accordance with Section 903 .3 . 1 . 1 or 903 .3 . 1 .2
is provided and connected to the building fire alarm system,
automatic heat detection required by this section shall not be
required.
The automatic fire detectors shall be smoke detectors.
Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of automatic
smoke detection, other automatic fire detection shall be
allowed.
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group A occupancies having an occupant load
of 300 or more. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied
for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm
system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
where the building is equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appli-
ances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies
with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of
the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant
load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an
emergency voice/alarm communications system in
accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded
announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated
for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the
sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement
from an approved, constantly attended location.
907.2.1.2 Emergency power. Emergency voice/alarm
communications systems shall be provided with an
approved emergency power source.
907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group B occupancies having an occupant load
of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or
below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
where the building is equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appli-
ances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group E occupancies. When automatic sprin-
kler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems
or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm
system.
Exceptions:
1 . Group E occupancies with an occupant load of less
than 50.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group
E occupancies where all of the following apply:
2.1. Interior corridors are protected by smoke
detectors with alarm verification.
2.2. Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and
the like are protected by heat detectors or
other approved detection devices.
2.3. Shops and laboratories involving dusts or
vapors are protected by heat detectors or
other approved detection devices.
2.4. Off-premises monitoring is provided.
2.5. The capability to activate the evacuation
signal from a central point is provided.
2.6. In buildings where normally occupied
spaces are provided with a two-way com-
munication system between such spaces
and a constantly attended receiving station
from where a general evacuation alarm can
be sounded, except in locations specifi-
cally designated by the fire code official.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in
Group E occupancies where the building is
equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system, the notification appliances will
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
activate on sprinkler water flow and manual acti-
vation is provided from a normally occupied loca-
tion.
907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group F occupancies that are two or more sto-
ries in height and have an occupant load of 500 or more
above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
where the building is equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appli-
ances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used
for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic
smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic
gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with
Chapters 37, 39 and 40, respectively.
907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group I occupancies. An electrically super-
vised, automatic smoke detection system shall be provided
in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1 and 907.2.6.2.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or
patient sleeping areas of Group I-l and 1-2 occupancies
shall not be required at exits if located at all nurses' con-
trol stations or other constantly attended staff locations,
provided such stations are visible and continuously
accessible and that travel distances required in Section
907.4.1 are not exceeded.
907.2.6.1 Group I-l. Corridors, habitable spaces other
than sleeping units and kitchens, and waiting areas that
are open to corridors shall be equipped with an automatic
smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not
required where the facility is equipped through-
out with an automatic sprinkler system.
2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior
balconies.
907.2.6.2 Group 1-2. Corridors in nursing homes (both
intermediate care and skilled nursing facilities), detoxifi-
cation facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the
corridors by Section 407.2 of the International Building
Code shall be equipped with an automatic fire detection
system. Hospitals shall be equipped with smoke detec-
tion as required in Section 407.2 of the International
Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Corridor smoke detection is not required in
smoke compartments that contain patient sleep-
ing units where patient sleeping units are pro-
vided with smoke detectors that comply with
UL 268. Such detectors shall provide a visual
display on the corridor side of each patient
sleeping unit and shall provide an audible and
visual alarm at the nursing station attending
each unit.
2. Corridor smoke detection is not required in
smoke compartments that contain patient sleep-
ing units where patient sleeping unit doors are
equipped with automatic door-closing devices
with integral smoke detectors on the unit sides
installed in accordance with their listing, pro-
vided that the integral detectors perform the
required alerting function.
907.2.6.3 Group 1-3 occupancies. Group 1-3 occupan-
cies shall be equipped with a manual and automatic fire
alarm system installed for alerting staff.
907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an auto-
matic fire-extinguishing system, a manual fire alarm
box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire
alarm signal which automatically notifies staff.
Presignal systems shall not be used.
907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire
alarm boxes are not required to be located in accor-
dance with Section 907.4 where the fire alarm boxes
are provided at staff-attended locations having direct
supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes
have been omitted.
Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in
areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff mem-
bers are present within the subject area and have keys
readily available to operate the manual fire alarm
boxes.
907.2.6.3.3 Smoke detectors. An approved auto-
matic smoke detection system shall be installed
throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping
units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces
and other common spaces normally accessible to resi-
dents.
Exceptions:
1. Other approved smoke-detection arrange-
ments providing equivalent protection,
including, but not limited to, placing detec-
tors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind
protective guards listed for the purpose, are
allowed when necessary to prevent damage
or tampering.
2. Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3.
3. Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping
units with four or fewer occupants in smoke
compartments that are equipped throughout
with an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem.
907.2.7 Group M. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group M occupancies having an occupant load
of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or
below the lowest level of exit discharge. The initiation of a
82
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
signal from a manual fire alarm box shall initiate alarm noti-
fication appliances as required by Section 907.10.
Exceptions:
1 . A manual fire alarm system is required in covered
mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the
International Building Code.
2 . Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the
building is equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system and the alarm notification appli-
ances will automatically activate upon sprinkler
water flow.
907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During times that the
building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a
manual fire alarm box or from a water flow switch shall
not be required to activate the alarm notification appli-
ances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly
attended location from which evacuation instructions
shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm com-
munication system installed in accordance with Section
907.2.12.2. '
The emergency voice/alarm communication system
shall be allowed to be used for other announcements,
provided the manual fire alarm use takes precedence
over any other use.
907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems shall be installed in
Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1
through 907.2.8.3.
907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire
alarm system shall be installed in Group R-1 occupan-
cies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in
buildings not more than two stories in height
where all individual sleeping units and contigu-
ous attic and crawl spaces are separated from
each other and public or common areas by at
least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual
sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public
way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
throughout the building when the following
conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification apphances will acti-
vate upon sprinkler water flow; and
2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is
installed at an approved location.
907.2.8.2 Automatic fire alarm system. An automatic
fire alarm system shall be installed throughout all interior
corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic fire detection system is not
required in buildings that do not have interior corri-
dors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping
unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an
exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be
installed as required by Section 907.2.10. In buildings
that are not equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the smoke alarms in sleeping
units shall be connected to an emergency electrical sys-
tem and shall be annunciated by sleeping unit at a con-
stantly attended location from which the fire alarm
system is capable of being manually activated.
907.2.9 Group R-2. A manual fire alarm system shall be
installed in Group R-2 occupancies where:
1 . Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or
more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge;
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more
than one story below the highest level of exit dis-
charge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping
unit; or
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or
sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1 . A fire alarm system is not required in build-
ings not more than two stories in height
where all dwelling units or sleeping units
and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are
separated from each other and public or
common areas by at least 1-hour fire parti-
tions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit
has an exit directly to a public way, exit court
or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
throughout the building when the following
conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system
in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2; and
2.2. The notification appliances will acti-
vate upon sprinkler flow.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in build-
ings that do not have interior corridors serv-
ing dwelling units and are protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwell-
ing units either have a means of egress door
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
Opening directly to an exterior exit access
that leads directly to the exits or are served
by open-ended corridors designed in accor-
dance with Section 1023.6, Exception 4.
907.2.10 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms.
Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms comply-
ing with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with the
provisions of this code and the household fire-waming
equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
907.2.10.1 Where required. Single- or multiple-station
smoke alarms shall be installed in the locations described
in Sections 907.2.10.1.1 through 907.2.10.1.3.
907.2.10.1.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station
smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following
locations in Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2 . In every room in the path of the means of egress
from the sleeping area to the door leading from
the sleeping unit.
3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including
basements. For sleeping units with split levels
and without an intervening door between the
adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the
upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower
level provided that the lower level is less than
one full story below the upper level.
907.2.10.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-l. Single
or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed
and maintained in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-l
regardless of occupant load at all of the following
locations:
1 . On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate
sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bed-
rooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including
basements but not including crawl spaces and
uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling
units with split levels and without an interven-
ing door between the adjacent levels, a smoke
alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice
for the adjacent lower level provided that the
lower level is less than one full story below the
upper level.
907.2.10.1.3 Group I-l. Single- or multiple-station
smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in
sleeping areas in Group I-l occupancies.
Exception: Single- or multiple- station smoke
alarms shall not be required where the building is
equipped throughout with an automatic fire detec-
tion system in accordance with Section 907.2.6.
907.2.10.2 Power source. In new construction, required
smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the
building wiring where such wiring is served from a com-
mercial source and shall be equipped with a battery
backup. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the bat-
teries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a
disconnecting switch other than as required for
overcurrent protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be
equipped with battery backup in Group R-1 where
they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more than one
smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individ-
ual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-2, R-3 or
R-4, or within an individual sleeping unit in Group R-1,
the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a man-
ner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the
alarms in the individual unit. The alarm shall be clearly
audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels
with all intervening doors closed.
907.2.10.4 Acceptance testing. When the installation of
the alarm devices is complete, each detector and inter-
connecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices
shall be tested in accordance with the household fire
warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
907.2.11 Special amusement buildings. An approved
automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in spe-
cial amusement buildings in accordance with this section.
Exception: In areas where ambient conditions will cause
a smoke detection system to alarm, an approved alterna-
tive type of automatic detector shall be installed.
907.2.11.1 Alarm. Activation of any single smoke
detector, the automatic sprinkler system or any other
automatic fire detection device shall immediately sound
an alarm at the building at a constantly attended location
from which emergency action can be initiated, including
the capability of manual initiation of requirements in
Section 907.2.11.2.
907.2.11.2 System response. The activation of two or
more smoke detectors, a single smoke detector with
alarm verification, the automatic sprinkler system or
other approved fire detection device shall automatically:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with
light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the
walking surface level;
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and
visual distractions; and
3. Activate an approved directional exit marking that
will become apparent in an emergency.
Such system response shall also include activation of a
prerecorded message, clearly audible throughout the
special amusement building, instructing patrons to pro-
ceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signals used in conjunc-
tion with the prerecorded message shall produce a sound
which is distinctive from other sounds used during nor-
mal operation.
The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment
used to accomplish the above fire safety functions shall
be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.
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907.2.11.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication
system. An emergency voice/alarm communication sys-
tem, which is also allowed to serve as a public address
system, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72
and be audible throughout the entire special amusement
building.
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with a floor used
for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860
mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access shall be provided with an automatic fire alarm system
and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in
accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
Exceptions:
1 . Airport traffic control towers in accordance with
Section 907.2.22 and Section 412 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section
406.3 of the International Building Code.
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in
accordance with Section 303. 1 of the International
Building Code.
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance
with Section 503. 1 . 1 of the International Building
Code.
5 . Buildings with an occupancy in Group H- 1 , H-2 or
H-3 in accordance with Section 415 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
907.2.12.1 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors
shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke
detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm
system. The activation of any detector required by this
section shall operate the emergency voice/alarm commu-
nication system. Smoke detectors shall be located as fol-
lows:
1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, trans-
former, telephone equipment or similar room
which is not provided with sprinkler protection,
elevator machine rooms, and in elevator lobbies.
2. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of
each air-conditioning system having a capacity
greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm)
(0.94 mVs). Such detectors shall be located in a
serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
3. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serv-
ing two or more stories from a return air duct or
plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group
R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a listed smoke detector
is allowed to be used in each return-air riser carry-
ing not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 mVs) and serving
not more than 10 air-inlet openings.
907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication
system. The operation of any automatic fire detector,
sprinkler water-flow device or manual fire alarm box
shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice
instructions giving approved information and directions
for a general or staged evacuation on a minimum of the
alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below in
accordance with the building's fire safety and evacuation
plans required by Section 404. Speakers shall be pro-
vided throughout the building by paging zones. As a
minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:
1. Elevator groups.
2. Exit stairways.
3. Each floor.
4. Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1.
Exception: In Group I-l and 1-2 occupancies, the
alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a
general occupant notification shall be broadcast over
the overhead page.
907.2.12.2.1 Manual override. A manual override
for emergency voice communication shall be pro-
vided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging |
zones.
907.2.12.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency
voice/alarm communication system shall also have
the capability to broadcast live voice messages
through paging zones on a selective and all-call basis. |
907.2.12.2.3 Standard. The emergency voice/alarm
communication system shall be designed and
installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.2.12.3 Fire department communication system.
An approved two-way, fire department communication
system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA
72 shall be provided for fire department use. It shall oper-
ate between a fire command center complying with Sec-
tion 509 and elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and
standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge
and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department
communication device shall be provided at each floor
level within the enclosed exit stairway.
Exception: Fire department radio systems where
approved by the fire department.
907.2.13 Atriums connecting more than two stories. A
fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an
atrium that connects more than two stories. The system shall
be activated in accordance with Section 907.7. Such occu-
pancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided with an emer-
gency voice/alarm communication system complying with
the requirements of Section 907.2.12.2.
907.2.14 High-piled combustible storage areas. An auto-
matic fire detection system shall be installed throughout
high-piled combustible storage areas where required by
Section 2306.5.
907.2.15 Delayed egress locks. Where delayed egress
locks are installed on means of egress doors in accordance
with Section 1008.1.8.6, an automatic smoke or heat detec-
tion system shall be installed as required by that section.
907.2.16 Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol storage rooms and
general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where
required by this code.
907.2.17 Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer
mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall
be provided with a manual fire alarm system.
907.2.18 Underground buildings with smoke exhaust
systems. Where a smoke exhaust system is installed in an
underground building in accordance with the International
Building Code, automatic fire detectors shall be provided in
accordance with this section.
907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke
detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed
in the following areas:
1. Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer,
telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar
rooms.
2. Elevator lobbies.
3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each
air-conditioning system serving more than one
story and located in a serviceable area downstream
of the last duct inlet.
4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving
two or more floors from return air ducts or ple-
nums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning
systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a
listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each
return-air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm
(2.4 mVs) and serving not more than 10 air inlet
openings.
907.2.18.2 Alarm required. Activation of the smoke
exhaust system shall activate an audible alarm at a con-
stantly attended location.
907.2.19 Underground buildings. Where the lowest level
of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the
lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be
equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system,
including an emergency voice/alarm communication sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
907.2.19.1 Public address system. Where a fire alarm
system is not required by Section 907.2, a public address
system shall be provided which shall be capable of trans-
mitting voice communications to the highest level of exit
discharge serving the underground portions of the struc-
ture and all levels below.
907.2.20 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings
exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m^) in total floor area
shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communi-
cation system. An emergency voice/alarm communication
system serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be acces-
sible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in
accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
907.2.21 Residential aircraft hangars. A minimum of one
listed smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential air-
craft hangar as defined in the International Building Code
and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm
or other sounding device to provide an alarm which will be
audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.
907.2.22 Airport traffic control towers. An automatic fire
detection system shall be provided in airport traffic control
towers.
907.2.23 Battery rooms. An approved automatic smoke
detection system shall be installed in areas containing sta-
tionary storage battery systems having a liquid capacity of
more than 50 gallons (189 L). The detection system shall be
supervised by an approved central, proprietary, or remote
station service or a local alarm which will sound an audible
signal at a constantly attended location.
907.3 Where required — retroactive in existing buildings
and structures. An approved manual, automatic or manual
and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in existing
buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.3.1
through 907.3.1.8. Where automatic sprinkler protection is
provided in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2
and connected to the building fire alarm system, automatic heat
detection required by this section shall not be required.
An approved automatic fire detection system shall be
installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and
NFPA 72. Devices, combinations of devices, appliances and
equipment shall be approved. The automatic fire detectors shall
be smoke detectors, except an approved alternative type of
detector shall be installed in spaces such as boiler rooms where,
during normal operation, products of combustion are present in
sufficient quantity to actuate a smoke detector.
907.3.1 Occupancy requirements. A fire alarm system
shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.3.1.1
through 907.3.1.8.
Exception: Occupancies with an existing, previously
approved fire alarm system.
907.3.1.1 Group E. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group E occupancies in accordance
with Section 907.2.3.
Exceptions:
1. A building with a maximum area of 1,000
square feet (93 m^) that contains a single class-
room and is located no closer than 50 feet (15
240 mm) from another building.
2. Group E with an occupant load less than 50.
907.3.1.2 Group I-l. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group LI residential care/assisted
living facilities.
Exception: Where each sleeping room has a means of
egress door opening directly to an exterior egress bal-
cony that leads directly to the exits in accordance with
Section 1014.5, and the building is not more than
three stories in height.
907.3.1.3 Group 1-2. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group L2 occupancies in accor-
dance with Section 907.2.6.2.
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907.3.1.4 Group 1-3. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group 1-3 occupancies in accor-
dance with Section 907.2.6.3.
907.3.1.5 Group R-1 hotels and motels. A fire alarm
system shall be installed in existing Group R- 1 hotels and
motels more than three stories or with more than 20
sleeping units.
Exception: Buildings less than two stories in height
where all sleeping units, attics and crawl spaces are
separated by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construc-
tion and each sleeping unit has direct access to a pub-
lic way, exit court or yard.
907.3.1.6 Group R-1 boarding and rooming houses. A
fire alarm system shall be installed in existing Group R- 1
boarding and rooming houses.
Exception: Buildings that have single-station smoke
alarms meeting or exceeding the requirements of Sec-
tion 907.2.10.1 and where the fire alarm system
includes at least one manual fire alarm box per floor
arranged to initiate the alarm.
907.3.1.7 Group R-2. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group R-2 occupancies more than
three stories in height or with more than 16 dwelling
units or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. Where each living unit is separated from other
contiguous living units by fire barriers having a
fire-resistance rating of not less than 0.75 hour,
and where each living unit has either its own
independent exit or its own independent stair-
way or ramp discharging at grade.
2. A separate fire alarm system is not required in
buildings that are equipped throughout with an
approved supervised automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903 .3. 1 . 1 or 903.3 . 1 .2 and having a local alarm
to notify all occupants.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings
that do not have interior corridors serving dwell-
ing units and are protected by an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided
that dwelling units either have a means of egress
door opening directly to an exterior exit access
that leads directiy to the exits or are served by
open-ended corridors designed in accordance
with Section 1023.6, Exception 4.
907.3.1.8 Group R-4. A fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing Group R-4 residential care/assisted
living facilities.
Exceptions:
1 . Where there are interconnected smoke alarms
meeting the requirements of Section 907.2.10
and there is at least one manual fire alarm box
per floor arranged to sound continuously the
smoke alarms.
2. Other manually activated, continuously sound-
ing alarms approved by the fire code official.
907.3.2 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Sin-
gle- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
existing Group R occupancies in accordance with Sections
907.3.2.1 through 907.3.2.3.
907.3.2.1 General. Existing Group R occupancies not
already provided with single-station smoke alarms shall
be provided with approved single-station smoke alarms.
Installation shall be in accordance with Section
907.2.10, except as provided in Sections 907.3.2.2 and
907.3.2.3.
907.3.2.2 Interconnection. Where more than one
smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individ-
ual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or within an
individual sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smoke alarms
shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activa-
tion of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the indi-
vidual unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all
bedrooms over background noise levels with all inter-
vening doors closed.
Exceptions:
1 . Interconnection is not required in buildings that
are not undergoing alterations, repairs or con-
struction of any kind.
2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required
to be interconnected where alterations or
repairs do not result in the removal of interior
wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure,
unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement
available which could provide access for inter-
connection without the removal of interior fin-
ishes.
907.3.2.3 Power source. In Group R occupancies, sin-
gle-station smoke alarms shall receive their primary
power from the building wiring provided that such wir-
ing is served from a commercial source and shall be
equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit
a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be per-
manent and without a disconnecting switch other than as
required for overcurrent protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely
battery operated: in existing buildings where no con-
struction is taking place; in buildings that are not
served from a commercial power source; and in exist-
ing areas of buildings undergoing alterations or
repairs that do not result in the removal of interior
walls or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless
there is an attic, crawl space or basement available
which could provide access for building wiring with-
out the removal of interior finishes.
907.4 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes shall
be installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1 through
907.4.5.
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
907.4.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located
not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each
exit. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so
that travel distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200
feet (60 960 mm).
907.4.2 Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes
shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maxi-
mum of 48 inches (1372 mm) measured vertically, from the
floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
907.4.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
907.4.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored
by a supervising station, an approved permanent sign shall
be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that
reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS— CALL FIRE
DEPARTMENT.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently
provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
907.4.5 Protective covers. The fire code official is autho-
rized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm
box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to
provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from
physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent
or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of
the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper
operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local
alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved.
907.5 Power supply. The primary and secondary power supply
for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with
NFPA 72.
907.6 Wiring. Wiring shall comply with the requirements of
the ICC Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection
systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall
comply with the special requirements for supervision of
low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.
907.7 Activation. Where an alarm notification system is
required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1 . Required automatic fire alarm system.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Required manual fire alarm boxes.
907.8 Presignal system. Presignal systems shall not be
installed unless approved by the fire code official and the fire
department. Where a presignal system is installed, 24-hour
personnel supervision shall be provided at a location approved
by the fire department, in order that the alarm signal can be
actuated in the event of fire or other emergency.
907.9 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone
shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m^). The length of
any zone shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direc-
tion.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not
exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.
907.9.1 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.
907.9.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings with a floor used
for human occupancy that is located more than 75 feet (22
860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for all of
the following types of alarm-initiating devices where pro-
vided:
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.
907.10 Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification
appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their pur-
pose.
907.10.1 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appli-
ances shall be provided in accordance with Sections
907.10.1.1 through 907.10.1.4.
Exceptions:
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not
required in alterations, except where an existing
fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new
fire alarm system is installed.
2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be
required in exits as defined in Section 1002.1.
907.10.1.1 Public and common areas. Visible alarm
notification appliances shall be provided in public areas
and common areas.
907.10.1.2 Employee work areas. Where employee
work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification
appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall
be initially designed with a minimum of 20 percent spare
capacity to account for the potential of adding visible
notification appliances in the future to accommodate
hearing impaired employ ee(s).
TABLE 907.10.1.3
VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS
NUMBER OF SLEEPING
UNITS
SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS WITH
VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS
6 to 25
2
26 to 50
4
51 to 75
7
76 to 100
9
101 to 150
12
151 to 200
14
201 to 300
17
301 to 400
20
401 to 500
22
501 to 1,000
5% of total
1,001 and over
50 plus 3 for each 100 over 1,000
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r>
907.10.1.3 Groups I-l and R-1. Group I-l and R-1
sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.10.1.3 shall
be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance,
activated by both the in-room smoke alarm and the build-
ing fire alarm system.
907.10.1.4 Group R-2. In Group R-2 occupancies
required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, all
dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with
the capability to support visible alarm notification appli-
ances in accordance with ICC A117.1.
907.10.2 Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appli-
ances shall be provided and sound a distinctive sound that is
not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm.
The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a
sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average
ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound
level having a duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is
greater, in every occupied space within the building. The
minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 70 dBA in occu-
pancies in Groups R and I-l ; 90 dBA in mechanical equip-
ment rooms; and 60 dBA in other occupancies. The
maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notifica-
tion appliances shall be 120 dBA at the minimum hearing
distance from the audible appliance. Where the average
ambient noise is greater than 105 dBA, visible alarm notifi-
cation appliances shall be provided in accordance with
NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not
be required.
Exception: Visible alarm notification appliances shall
be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appli-
ances in critical care areas of Group 1-2 occupancies.
907.11 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized
for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be con-
nected to the building's fire alarm control panel where a fire
alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall,
upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the
alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible
supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In build-
ings not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the
automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical
service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function.
The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.12 Duct smoke detectors. Duct smoke detectors shall be
connected to the building's fire alarm control panel when a fire
alarm system is provided. Activation of a duct smoke detector
shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a con-
stantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors shall not be
used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exceptions:
1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attended
location is not required where duct smoke detec-
tors activate the building's alarm notification
appliances.
2. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a
fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector
shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an
approved location. Smoke detector trouble condi-
tions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an
approved location and shall be identified as air
duct detector trouble.
907.13 Access. Access shall be provided to each detector for
periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
907.14 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extin-
guishing systems shall be connected to the building fire alarm
system where a fire alarm system is required by another section
of this code or is otherwise installed.
907.15 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chap- I
ter or by the International Building Code shall be monitored by |
an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Supervisory service is not required for:
1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required
by Section 907.2.10.
2. Smoke detectors in Group 1-3 occupancies.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family
dwellings.
907.16 Automatic telephone-dialing devices. Automaric
telephone-dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm
shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number
unless approved by the fire chief.
907.17 Acceptance tests. Upon completion of the installation
of the fire alarm system, alarm notification appliances and cir-
cuits, alarm-initiating devices and circuits, supervisory-signal
initiating devices and circuits, signaling line circuits, and pri-
mary and secondary power supplies shall be tested in accor-
dance with NFPA 72.
907.18 Record of completion. A record of completion in
accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been
installed in accordance with the approved plans and specifica-
tions shall be provided.
907.19 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance
instructions and record drawings ("as builts") and equipment
specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
907.20 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The mainte-
nance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and
fire detection systems shall be in accordance with this section
and Chapter 10 of NFPA 72.
907.20.1 Maintenance required. Whenever or wherever
any device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement,
level of protection or any other feature is required for com-
pliance with the provisions of this code, such device, equip-
ment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection or
other feature shall thereafter be continuously maintained in
accordance with applicable NFPA requirements or as
directed by the fire code official.
907.20.2 Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance
with the schedules in Chapter 10 of NFPA 72 or more fre-
quently where required by the fire code official. Where
automatic testing is performed at least weekly by a remotely
monitored fire alarm control unit specifically listed for the
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application, the manual testing frequency shall be permitted
to be extended to annual.
Exception: evices or equipment that are inaccessible for
safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled
shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but
not less than every 18 months.
907.20.3 Detector sensitivity. Detector sensitivity shall be
checked within one year after installation and every alter-
nate year thereafter. After the second calibration test, where
sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained
within its listed and marked sensitivity range (or 4-percent
obscuration light grey smoke, if not marked), the length of
time between calibration tests shall be permitted to be
extended to a maximum of five years. Where the frequency
is extended, records of detector-caused nuisance alarms and
subsequent trends of these alarms shall be maintained. In
zones or areas where nuisance alarms show any increase
over the previous year, calibration tests shall be performed.
907.20.4 Method. To ensure that each smoke detector is
within its listed and marked sensitivity range, it shall be
tested using either a calibrated test method, the manufac-
turer's calibrated sensitivity test instrument, listed control
equipment arranged for the purpose, a smoke detector/con-
trol unit arrangement whereby the detector causes a signal at
the control unit where its sensitivity is outside its acceptable
sensitivity range or other calibrated sensitivity test method
acceptable to the fire code official. Detectors found to have a
sensitivity outside the listed and marked sensitivity range
shall be cleaned and recalibrated or replaced.
Exceptions:
1 . Detectors listed as field adjustable shall be permit-
ted to be either adjusted within the listed and
marked sensitivity range and cleaned and
recalibrated or they shall be replaced.
2. This requirement shall not apply to single-station
smoke alarms.
907.20.4.1 Testing device. Detector sensitivity shall not
be tested or measured using a device that administers an
unmeasured concentration of smoke or other aerosol into
the detector.
907.20.5 Maintenance, inspection and testing. The build-
ing owner shall be responsible for ensuring that the fire and
life safety systems are maintained in an operable condition
at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification
requirements of NFPA 72 for maintaining, inspecting and
testing such systems. A written record shall be maintained
and shall be made available to the fire code official.
SECTION 908
EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS
908.1 Group H occupancies. Emergency alarms for the detec-
tion and notification of an emergency condition in Group H
occupancies shall be provided as required in Chapter 27.
908.2 Group H-5 occupancy. Emergency alarms for notifica-
tion of an emergency condition in an HPM facility shall be pro-
vided as required in Section 1803.12. A continuous gas detec-
tion system shall be provided for HPM gases in accordance
with Section 1803.13.
908.3 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Where required by
Section 3704.2.2.10, a gas detection system shall be provided
for indoor storage and use of highly toxic and toxic compressed
gases.
908.4 Ozone gas-generator rooms. A gas detection system
shall be provided in ozone gas-generator rooms in accordance
with Section 3705.3.2.
908.5 Repair garages. A flammable-gas detection system
shall be provided in repair garages for vehicles fueled by
nonodorized gases in accordance with Section 2211.7.2.
908.6 Refrigeration systems. Refrigeration system machin-
ery rooms shall be provided with a refrigerant detector in
accordance with Section 606.8.
SECTION 909
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
909.1 Scope and purpose. This section applies to mechanical
or passive smoke control systems when they are required for
new buildings or portions thereof by provisions of the Interna-
tional Building Code or this code. The purpose of this section is
to establish minimum requirements for the design, installation
and acceptance testing of smoke control systems that are
intended to provide a tenable environment for the evacuation or
relocation of occupants. These provisions are not intended for
the preservation of contents, the timely restoration of opera-
tions, or for assistance in fire suppression or overhaul activities.
Smoke control systems regulated by this section serve a differ-
ent purpose than the smoke- and heat- venting provisions found
in Section 910. Mechanical smoke control systems shall not be
considered exhaust systems under Chapter 5 of the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
909.2 General design requirements. Buildings, structures, or
parts thereof required by the International Building Code or
this code to have a smoke control system or systems shall have
such systems designed in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Section 909 and the generally accepted and
well-established principles of engineering relevant to the
design. The construction documents shall include sufficient
information and detail to describe adequately the elements of
the design necessary for the proper implementation of the
smoke control systems. These documents shall be accompa-
nied with sufficient information and analysis to demonstrate
compliance with these provisions.
909.3 Special inspection and test requirements. In addition
to the ordinary inspection and test requirements to which build-
ings, structures and parts thereof are required to undergo,
smoke control systems subject to the provisions of Section 909
shall undergo special inspections and tests sufficient to verify
the proper commissioning of the smoke control design in its
final installed condition. The design submission accompany-
ing the construction documents shall clearly detail procedures
and methods to be used and the items subject to such inspec-
tions and tests. Such commissioning shall be in accordance
with generally accepted engineering practice and, where possi-
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ble, based on published standards for the particular testing
involved. The special inspections and tests required by this sec-
tion shall be conducted under the same terms as in Section 1704
of the International Building Code.
909.4 Analysis. A rational analysis supporting the types of
smoke control systems to be employed, the methods of their
operations, the systems supporting them, and the methods of
construction to be utilized shall accompany the construction
documents submission and include, but not be limited to, the
items indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.6.
909.4.1 Stack effect. The system shall be designed such
that the maximum probable normal or reverse stack effect
will not adversely interfere with the system's capabilities. In
determining the maximum probable stack effect, altitude,
elevation, weather history and interior temperatures shall be
used.
909.4.2 Temperature effect of fire. Buoyancy and expan-
sion caused by the design fire in accordance with Section
909.9 shall be analyzed. The system shall be designed such
that these effects do not adversely interfere with the sys-
tem's capabilities.
909.4.3 Wind effect. The design shall consider the adverse
effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consistent with
the wind-loading provisions of the International Building
Code.
909.4.4 Systems. The design shall consider the effects of
the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) sys-
tems on both smoke and fire transport. The analysis shall
include all permutations of systems status. The design shall
consider the effects of the fire on the heating, ventilating and
air-conditioning systems.
909.4.5 Climate. The design shall consider the effects of
low temperatures on systems, property and occupants. Air
inlets and exhausts shall be located so as to prevent snow or
ice blockage.
909.4.6 Duration of operation. All portions of active or
passive smoke control systems shall be capable of continued
operation after detection of the fire event for a period of not
less than either 20 minutes or 1 .5 times the calculated egress
time, whichever is less.
909.5 Smoke barrier construction. Smoke barriers shall
comply with the International Building Code. Smoke barriers
shall be constructed and sealed to limit leakage areas exclusive
of protected openings. The maximum allowable leakage area
shall be the aggregate area calculated using the following leak-
age area ratios:
1. Walls: AIA = 0.00100
2. Exit enclosures: A/A^ = 0.00035
3. All other shafts: A/A^ = 0.00150
4. Floors and roofs: A/A^ = 0.00050
where:
A = Total leakage area, square feet (m^).
Ap = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m^).
A^ = Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m^).
The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due
to doors, operable windows or similar gaps. These shall be
included in calculating the total leakage area.
909.5.1 Leakage area. Total leakage area of the barrier is
the product of the smoke barrier gross area multiplied by the
allowable leakage area ratio, plus the area of other openings
such as gaps and operable windows. Compliance shall be
determined by achieving the minimum air pressure differ-
ence across the barrier with the system in the smoke control
mode for mechanical smoke control systems. Passive
smoke control systems tested using other approved means,
such as door fan testing, shall be as approved by the fire code
official.
909.5.2 Opening protection. Openings in smoke barriers
shall be protected by automatic-closing devices actuated by
the required controls for the mechanical smoke control sys-
tem. Door openings shall be protected by fire door assem-
bhes complying with Section 715.4.3 of the International
Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Passive smoke control systems with auto-
matic-closing devices actuated by spot-type
smoke detectors listed for releasing service I
installed in accordance with Section 907.10. I
2. Fixed openings between smoke zones that are pro-
tected utilizing the airflow method.
3 . In Group 1-2, where such doors are installed across
corridors, a pair of opposite-swinging doors with-
out a center mulhon shall be installed having
vision panels with fire protection-rated glazing I
materials in fire protection-rated frames, the area I
of which shall not exceed that tested. The doors I
shall be close-fitting within operational tolerances
and shall not have undercuts, louvers or grilles.
The doors shall have head and jamb stops, astra-
gals or rabbets at meeting edges and shall be auto-
matic-closing by smoke detection in accordance
with Section 715.4.7.3 of the International Build-
ing Code. Positive-latching devices are not
required.
4. Group 1-3.
5. Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling
heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and
bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as
determined by the design fire size.
909.5,2.1 Ducts and air transfer openings. Ducts and
air transfer openings are required to be protected with a
minimum Class II, 250°F (121°C) smoke damper com-
plying with Section 716 of the International Building
Code.
909.6 Pressurization method. The primary mechanical
means of controlling smoke shall be by pressure differences
across smoke barriers. Maintenance of a tenable environment
is not required in the smoke-control zone of fire origin.
909.6.1 Minimum pressure difference. The minimum
pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be
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0.05-inch water gage (0.0124 kPa) in fully sprinklered
buildings.
In buildings allowed to be other than fully sprinklered,
the smoke control system shall be designed to achieve pres-
sure differences at least two times the maximum calculated
pressure difference produced by the design fire.
909.6.2 Maximum pressure difference. The maximum air
pressure difference across a smoke barrier shall be deter-
mined by required door-opening or closing forces. The
actual force required to open exit doors when the system is
in the smoke control mode shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion 1008.1.2. Opening and closing forces for other doors
shall be determined by standard engineering methods for
the resolution of forces and reactions. The calculated force
to set a side-hinged, swinging door in motion shall be deter-
mined by:
F=Fa, + K{WAM')l2{W-d) (Equation 9-1)
where:
A = Door area, square feet (m^).
d = Distance from door handle to latch edge of door, feet
(m).
F = Total door opening force, pounds (N).
F^^ = Force required to overcome closing device, pounds
(N).
K = Coefficient 5.2 (1.0).
W = Door width, feet (m).
AP= Design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa).
909.7 Airflow design method. When approved by the fire
code official, smoke migration through openings fixed in a per-
manently open position, which are located between
smoke-control zones by the use of the airflow method, shall be
permitted. The design airflow shall be in accordance with this
section. Airflow shall be directed to limit smoke migration
from the fire zone. The geometry of openings shall be consid-
ered to prevent flow reversal from turbulent effects.
909.7.1 Velocity. The minimum average velocity through a
fixed opening shall not be less than:
v = 2ll.2[h(Tf-T,)/(Tf+460)V'^
For SI: v= 119.9 [h {Tf- T,)IT^"^
where:
(Equation 9-2)
h = Height of opening, feet (m).
7} = Temperature of smoke, °F (K).
Tg = Temperature of ambient air, °F (K).
V = Air velocity, feet per minute (m/minute).
909.7.2 Prohibited conditions. This method shall not be
employed where either the quantity of air or the velocity of
the airflow will adversely affect other portions of the smoke
control system, unduly intensify the fire, disrupt plume
dynamics or interfere with exiting. In no case shall airflow
toward the fire exceed 200 feet per minute (1.02 m/s).
R=[Q/(Unq")V
Where the formula in Section 909.7.1 requires airflows to
exceed this limit, the airflow method shall not be used.
909.8 Exhaust method. When approved by the fire code offi-
cial, mechanical smoke control for large enclosed volumes,
such as in atriums or malls, shall be permitted to utilize the
exhaust method. Smoke control systems using the exhaust
method shall be designed in accordance with NFPA 92B.
909.8.1 Smoke layer. The height of the lowest horizontal
surface of the accumulating smoke layer shall be main-
tained at least 6 feet (1829 mm) above any walking surface
that forms a portion of a required egress system within the
smoke zone.
909.9 Design fire. The design fire shall be based on a rational I
analysis performed by the registered design professional and
approved by the fire code official. The design fire shall be
based on the analysis in accordance with Section 909.4 and this
section.
909.9.1 Factors considered. The engineering analysis shall
include the characteristics of the fuel, fuel load, effects
included by the fire, and whether the fire is likely to be
steady or unsteady.
909.9.2 Separation distance. Determination of the design I
fire shall include consideration of the type of fuel, fuel spac- I
ing and configuration. I
(Equation 9-8)
where:
q" = Incident radiant heat flux required for nonpiloted
ignition, Btu/ft^ • s (W/m^).
Q = Heat release from fire, Btu/s (kW).
R = Separation distance from target to center of fuel pack-
age, feet (m).
909.9.3 Heat-release assumptions. The analysis shall
make use of best available data from approved sources and
shall not be based on excessively stringent limitations of
combustible material.
909.9.4 Sprinkler effectiveness assumptions. A docu-
mented engineering analysis shall be provided for condi-
tions that assume fire growth is halted at the time of
sprinkler activation.
909.10 Equipment. Equipment including, but not limited to,
fans, ducts, automatic dampers and balance dampers shall be
suitable for their intended use, suitable for the probable expo-
sure temperatures that the rational analysis indicates, and as
approved by the fire code official.
909.10.1 Exhaust fans. Components of exhaust fans shall
be rated and certified by the manufacturer for the probable
temperature rise to which the components will be exposed.
This temperature rise shall be computed by:
T, = (QJmc) + m
(Equation 9-9)
where:
Specific heat of smoke at smokelayer temperature,
Btu/lb°F • (kJ/kg • K).
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
m = Exhaust rate, pounds per second (kg/s).
Q^ = Convective heat output of fire, Btu/s (kW).
T^ = Ambient temperature, °F (K).
T^ = Smoke temperature, °F (K).
Exception; Reduced T^ as calculated based on the assur-
ance of adequate dilution air.
909.10.2 Ducts. Duct materials and joints shall be capable
of withstanding the probable temperatures and pressures to
which they are exposed as determined in accordance with
Section 909. 10. 1 . Ducts shall be constructed and supported
in accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
Ducts shall be leak tested to 1 .5 times the maximum design
pressure in accordance with nationally accepted practices.
Measured leakage shall not exceed 5 percent of design flow.
Results of such testing shall be a part of the documentation
procedure. Ducts shall be supported directly from fire-resis-
tance-rated structural elements of the building by substan-
tial, noncombustible supports.
Exception: Flexible connections (for the purpose of
vibration isolation) complying with the International
Mechanical Code and which are constructed of approved
fire-resistance-rated materials.
909.10.3 Equipment, inlets and outlets. Equipment shall
be located so as to not expose uninvolved portions of the
building to an additional fire hazard. Outside air inlets shall
be located so as to minimize the potential for introducing
smoke or flame into the building. Exhaust outlets shall be so
located as to minimize reintroduction of smoke into the
building and to limit exposure of the building or adjacent
buildings to an additional fire hazard.
909.10.4 Automatic dampers. Automatic dampers,
regardless of the purpose for which they are installed within
the smoke control system, shall be listed and conform to the
requirements of approved recognized standards.
909.10.5 Fans. In addition to other requirements,
belt-driven fans shall have 1 .5 times the number of belts
required for the design duty with the minimum number of
belts being two. Fans shall be selected for stable perfor-
mance based on normal temperature and, where applicable,
elevated temperature. Calculations and manufacturer's fan
curves shall be part of the documentation procedures. Fans
shall be supported and restrained by noncombustible
devices in accordance with the structural design require-
ments of Chapter 16 of the International Building Code.
Motors driving fans shall not be operated beyond their
nameplate horsepower (kilowatts) as determined from mea-
surement of actual current draw and shall have a minimum
service factor of 1.15.
909.11 Power systems. The smoke control system shall be
supplied with two sources of power. Primary power shall be
from the normal building power system. Secondary power
shall be from an approved standby source complying with the
ICC Electrical Code. The standby power source and its transfer
switches shall be in a separate room from the normal power
transformers and switch gear and shall be enclosed in a room
constructed of not less than 1-hour fire barriers ventilated
directly to and from the exterior. Power distribution from the
two sources shall be by independent routes. Transfer to full
standby power shall be automatic and within 60 seconds of fail-
ure of the primary power. The systems shall comply with this
code or the ICC Electrical Code.
909.11.1 Power sources and power surges. Elements of
the smoke management system relying on volatile memo-
ries or the like shall be supplied with uninterruptable power
sources of sufficient duration to span 15-minute primary
power interruption. Elements of the smoke management
system susceptible to power surges shall be suitably pro-
tected by conditioners, suppressors or other approved
means.
909.12 Detection and control systems. Fire detection systems
providing control input or output signals to mechanical smoke
control systems or elements thereof shall comply with the
requirements of Section 907. Such systems shall be equipped
with a control unit complying with UL 864 and listed as smoke
control equipment.
Control systems for mechanical smoke control systems shall
include provisions for verification. Verification shall include
positive confirmation of actuation, testing, manual override,
the presence of power downstream of all disconnects and,
through a preprogrammed weekly test sequence, report abnor-
mal conditions audibly, visually and by printed report.
909.12.1 Wiring. In addition to meeting requirements of
the ICC Electrical Code, all wiring, regardless of voltage,
shall be fully enclosed within continuous raceways.
909.12.2 Activation. Smoke control systems shall be acti-
vated in accordance with this section.
909.12.2.1 Pressurization, airflow or exhaust method.
Mechanical smoke control systems using the pressuriza-
tion, airflow or exhaust method shall have completely
automatic control.
909.12.2.2 Passive method. Passive smoke control sys-
tems actuated by approved spot-type detectors listed for
releasing service shall be permitted.
909.12.3 Automatic control. Where completely automatic
control is required or used, the automatic-control sequences
shall be initiated from an appropriately zoned automatic
sprinkler system complying with Section 903.3 . 1.1, manual
controls that are readily accessible to the fire department,
and any smoke detectors required by the engineering analy-
sis.
909.13 Control air tubing. Control air tubing shall be of suffi-
cient size to meet the required response times. Tubing shall be
flushed clean and dry prior to final connections and shall be
adequately supported and protected from damage. Tubing
passing through concrete or masonry shall be sleeved and pro-
tected from abrasion and electrolytic action.
909.13.1 Materials. Control air tubing shall be hard drawn
copper, Type L, ACR in accordance with ASTM B 42,
ASTM B 43, ASTM B 68, ASTM B 88, ASTM B 251 and
ASTM B 280. Fittings shall be wrought copper or brass, sol-
der type, in accordance with ASME B 16.18 or ASME B
16.22. Changes in direction shall be made with appropriate
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
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FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
tool bends. Brass compression-type fittings shall be used at
final connection to devices; other joints shall be brazed
using a BCuP5 brazing alloy with solidus above 1,100°F
(593°C) and liquidus below 1,500°F (816°C). Brazing flux
shall be used on copper-to-brass joints only.
Exception: Nonmetallic tubing used within control pan-
els and at the final connection to devices, provided all of
the following conditions are met:
1 . Tubing shall be listed by an approved agency for
flame and smoke characteristics.
2. Tubing and the connected device shall be com-
pletely enclosed within a galvanized or
paint-grade steel enclosure of not less than 0.030
inch (0.76 mm) (No. 22 galvanized sheet gage)
thickness. Entry to the enclosure shall be by cop-
per tubing with a protective grommet of neoprene
or teflon or by suitable brass compression to
male-barbed adapter.
3. Tubing shall be identified by appropriately docu-
mented coding.
4. Tubing shall be neatly tied and supported within
enclosure. Tubing bridging cabinet and door or
moveable device shall be of sufficient length to
avoid tension and excessive stress. Tubing shall be
protected against abrasion. Tubing serving
devices on doors shall be fastened along hinges.
909.13.2 Isolation from other functions. Control tubing
serving other than smoke control functions shall be isolated
by automatic isolation valves or shall be an independent sys-
tem.
909.13.3 Testing. Control air tubing shall be tested at three
times the operating pressure for not less than 30 minutes
without any noticeable loss in gauge pressure prior to final
connection to devices.
909.14 Marking and identification. The detection and con-
trol systems shall be clearly marked at all junctions, accesses
and terminations.
909.15 Control diagrams. Identical control diagrams show-
ing all devices in the system and identifying their location and
function shall be maintained current and kept on file with the
fire code official, the fire department and in the fire command
center in a format and manner approved by the fire chief
909.16 Fire-fighter's smoke control panel. A fire-fighter's
smoke control panel for fire department emergency response
purposes only shall be provided and shall include manual con-
trol or override of automatic control for mechanical smoke
control systems. The panel shall be located in a fire command
center complying with Section 509 in high-rise buildings or
buildings with smoke-protected assembly seating. In all other
buildings, the fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall be
installed in an approved location adjacent to the fire alarm con-
trol panel. The fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall comply
with Sections 909.16.1 through 909.16.3.
909.16.1 Smoke control systems. Fans within the building
shall be shown on the fire-fighter's control panel. A clear
indication of the direction of airflow and the relationship of
components shall be displayed. Status indicators shall be
provided for all smoke control equipment, annunciated by
fan and zone and by pilot-lamp-type indicators as follows:
1 . Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their
normal status — ^WHITE.
2. Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their
off or closed status — RED.
3. Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in their
on or open status — GREEN.
4. Fans, dampers and other operating equipment in a
fault status— YELLOW/AMBER.
909.16.2 Smoke control panel. The fire-fighter's control
panel shall provide control capability over the complete
smoke-control system equipment within the building as fol-
lows:
1 . ON-AUTO-OFF control over each individual piece
of operating smoke control equipment that can also be
controlled from other sources within the building.
This includes stairway pressurization fans; smoke
exhaust fans; supply, return and exhaust fans; eleva-
tor shaft fans; and other operating equipment used or
intended for smoke control purposes.
2. OPEN-AUTO-CLOSE control over individual
dampers relating to smoke control and that are also
controlled from other sources within the building.
3. ON-OFF or OPEN-CLOSE control over smoke con-
trol and other critical equipment associated with a fire
or smoke emergency and that can only be controlled
from the fire-fighter's control panel.
Exceptions:
1. Complex systems, where approved, where
the controls and indicators are combined to
control and indicate all elements of a single
smoke zone as a unit.
2. Complex systems, where approved, where
the control is accomplished by computer
interface using approved, plain English
commands.
909.16.3 Control action and priorities. The fire-fighter's
control panel actions shall be as follows:
1. ON-OFF and OPEN-CLOSE control actions shall
have the highest priority of any control point within
the building. Once issued from the fire-fighter's con-
trol panel, no automatic or manual control from any
other control point within the building shall contra-
dict the control action. Where automatic means are
provided to interrupt normal, nonemergency equip-
ment operation or produce a specific result to safe-
guard the building or equipment (i.e., duct freezestats,
duct smoke detectors, high-temperature cutouts, tem-
perature-actuated linkage and similar devices), such
means shall be capable of being overridden by the
fire-fighter's control panel. The last control action as
indicated by each fire-fighter's control panel switch
position shall prevail. In no case shall control actions
94
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
require the smoke control system to assume more
than one configuration at any one time.
Exception: Power disconnects required by the
ICC Electrical Code.
2. Only the AUTO position of each three-position
fire-fighter's control panel switch shall allow auto-
matic or manual control action from other control
points within the building. The AUTO position shall
be the NORMAL, nonemergency, building control
position. Where a fire-fighter's control panel is in the
AUTO position, the actual status of the device (on,
off, open, closed) shall continue to be indicated by the
status indicator described above. When directed by an
automatic signal to assume an emergency condition,
the NORMAL position shall become the emergency
condition for that device or group of devices within
the zone. In no case shall control actions require the
smoke control system to assume more than one con-
figuration at any one time.
909.17 System response time. Smoke-control system activa-
tion shall be initiated immediately after receipt of an appropri-
ate automatic or manual activation command. Smoke control
systems shall activate individual components (such as dampers
and fans) in the sequence necessary to prevent physical damage
to the fans, dampers, ducts and other equipment. For purposes
of smoke control, the fire-fighter's control panel response time
shall be the same for automatic or manual smoke control action
initiated from any other building control point. The total
response time, including that necessary for detection, shut-
down of operating equipment and smoke control system
startup, shall allow for full operational mode to be achieved
before the conditions in the space exceed the design smoke
condition. The system response time for each component and
their sequential relationships shall be detailed in the required
rational analysis and verification of their installed condition
reported in the required final report.
909.18 Acceptance testing. Devices, equipment, components
and sequences shall be individually tested. These tests, in addi-
tion to those required by other provisions of this code, shall
consist of determination of function, sequence and, where
applicable, capacity of their installed condition.
909.18.1 Detection devices. Smoke or fire detectors that are
a part of a smoke control system shall be tested in accor-
dance with Chapter 9 in their installed condition. When
applicable, this testing shall include verification of airflow
in both minimum and maximum conditions.
909.18.2 Ducts. Ducts that are part of a smoke control sys-
tem shall be traversed using generally accepted practices to
determine actual air quantities.
909.18.3 Dampers. Dampers shall be tested for function in
their installed condition.
909.18.4 Inlets and outlets. Inlets and outlets shall be read
using generally accepted practices to determine air quanti-
ties.
909.18.5 Fans. Fans shall be examined for correct rotation.
Measurements of voltage, amperage, revolutions per min-
ute and belt tension shall be made.
909.18.6 Smoke barriers. Measurements using inclined
manometers or other approved calibrated measuring
devices shall be made of the pressure differences across
smoke barriers. Such measurements shall be conducted for
each possible smoke control condition.
909.18.7 Controls. Each smoke zone, equipped with an
automatic-initiation device, shall be put into operation by
the actuation of one such device. Each additional device
within the zone shall be verified to cause the same sequence
without requiring the operation of fan motors in order to
prevent damage. Control sequences shall be verified
throughout the system, including verification of override
from the fire-fighter's control panel and simulation of
standby power conditions.
909.18.8 Special inspections for smoke control. Smoke
control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.
909.18.8.1 Scope of testing. Special inspections shall be
conducted in accordance with the following:
1 . During erection of ductwork and prior to conceal-
ment for the purposes of leakage testing and
recording of device location.
2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion
for the purposes of pressure-difference testing,
flow measurements, and detection and control ver-
ification.
909.18.8.2 Qualifications. Special inspection agencies
for smoke control shall have expertise in fire protection
engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as
air balancers.
909.18.8.3 Reports. A complete report of testing shall
be prepared by the special inspector or special inspection
agency. The report shall include identification of all
devices by manufacturer, nameplate data, design values,
measured values and identification tag or mark. The
report shall be reviewed by the responsible registered
design professional and, when satisfied that the design
intent has been achieved, the responsible registered
design professional shall seal, sign and date the report.
909.18.8.3.1 Report filing. A copy of the final report
shall be filed with the fire code official and an identi-
cal copy shall be maintained in an approved location
at the building.
909.18.9 Identification and documentation. Charts,
drawings and other documents identifying and locating
each component of the smoke control system, and describ-
ing their proper function and maintenance requirements,
shall be maintained on file at the building as an attachment
to the report required by Section 909.18.8.3. Devices shall
have an approved identifying tag or mark on them consistent
with the other required documentation and shall be dated
indicating the last time they were successfully tested and by
whom.
909.19 System acceptance. Buildings, or portions thereof,
required by this code to comply with this section shall not be
issued a certificate of occupancy until such time that the fire
code official determines that the provisions of this section have
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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been fully complied with and that the fire department has
received satisfactory instruction on the operation, both auto-
matic and manual, of the system.
Exception: In buildings of phased construction, a tempo-
rary certificate of occupancy, as approved by the fire code
official, shall be allowed, provided that those portions of the
building to be occupied meet the requirements of this sec-
tion and that the remainder does not pose a significant haz-
ard to the safety of the proposed occupants or adjacent
buildings.
909.20 Maintenance. Smoke control systems shall be main-
tained to ensure to a reasonable degree that the system is capa-
ble of controlling smoke for the duration required. The system
shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions and Sections 909.20.1 through 909.20.5.
909.20.1 Schedule. A routine maintenance and operational
testing program shall be initiated immediately after the
smoke control system has passed the acceptance tests. A
written schedule for routine maintenance and operational
testing shall be established.
909.20.2 Written record. A. written record of smoke con-
trol system testing and maintenance shall be maintained on
the premises. The written record shall include the date of the
maintenance, identification of the servicing personnel and
notification of any unsatisfactory condition and the correc-
tive action taken, including parts replaced.
909.20.3 Testing. Operational testing of the smoke control
system shall include all equipment such as initiating
devices, fans, dampers, controls, doors and windows.
909.20.4 Dedicated smoke control systems. Dedicated
smoke control systems shall be operated for each control
sequence semiannually. The system shall also be tested
under standby power conditions.
909.20.5 Nondedicated smoke control systems.
Nondedicated smoke control systems shall be operated for
each control sequence annually. The system shall also be
tested under standby power conditions.
SECTION 910
SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS
910.1 General. Where required by this code or otherwise
installed, smoke and heat vents or mechanical smoke exhaust
systems and draft curtains shall conform to the requirements of
this section.
Exceptions:
1. Frozen food warehouses used solely for storage of
Class I and II commodities where protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler system.
2. Where areas of buildings are equipped with early sup-
pression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers, automatic
smoke and heat vents shall not be required within
these areas.
I 910.2 Where required. Smoke and heat vents shall be
installed in the roofs of one-story buildings or portions thereof
occupied for the uses set forth in Sections 910.2.1 through
910.2.3.
910.2.1 Group F-1 or S-1. Buildings and portions thereof
used as a Group F-1 or S-1 occupancy having more than
50,000 square feet (4645 m^) of undivided area.
Exception: Group S-1 aircraft repair hangars.
910.2.2 High-piled combustible storage. Buildings and
portions thereof containing high-piled combustible stock or
rack storage in any occupancy group when required by Sec-
tion 2306.7.
910.2.3 Exit access travel distance increase. Buildings
and portions thereof used as a Group F-1 or S-1 occupancy
where the maximum exit access travel distance is increased
in accordance with Section 1016.2.
910.3 Design and installation. The design and installation of
smoke and heat vents and draft curtains shall be as specified in
Sections 910.3.1 through 910.3.5.2 and Table 910.3.
910.3.1 Design. Smoke and heat vents shall be listed and I
labeled to indicate compliance with UL 793. I
910.3.2 Vent operation. Smoke and heat vents shall be
capable of being operated by approved automatic and man-
ual means. Automatic operation of smoke and heat vents
shall conform to the provisions of Sections 910.3.2.1 I
through 910.3.2.3. |
910.3.2.1 Gravity-operated drop out vents. Automatic
smoke and heat vents containing heat- sensitive glazing
designed to shrink and drop out of the vent opening when
exposed to fire shall fully open within 5 minutes after the
vent cavity is exposed to a simulated fire represented by a
time-temperature gradient that reaches an air tempera-
ture of 500°F (260°C) within 5 minutes.
910.3.2.2 Sprinklered buildings. Where installed in
buildings equipped with an approved automatic sprin-
kler system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to
operate automatically.
910.3.2.3 Nonsprinklered buildings. Where installed
in buildings not equipped with an approved automatic
sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall operate
automatically by actuation of a heat-responsive device
rated at between 100°F (56°C) and 220°F (122°C) above
ambient.
Exception: Gravity-operated drop out vents comply-
ing with Section 910.3.2.1.
910.3.3 Vent dimensions. The effective venting area shall
not be less than 16 square feet (1.5 m^) with no dimension
less than 4 feet (1219 mm), excluding ribs or gutters having
a total width not exceeding 6 inches (152 mm).
910.3.4 Vent locations. Smoke and heat vents shall be
located 20 feet (6096 mm) or more from adjacent lot lines
and fire walls and 10 feet (3048 mm) or more from fire bar-
rier walls. Vents shall be uniformly located within the roof
area above high-piled storage areas, with consideration
given to roof pitch, draft curtain location, sprinkler location
and structural members.
96
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TABLE 910.3
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAFT CURTAINS AND SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS^
OCCUPANCY GROUP
AND COMMODITY
CLASSIFICATION
DESIGNATED
STORAGE HEIGHT
(feet)
MINIMUM DRAFT
CURTAIN DEPTH
(feet)
MAXIMUM AREA
FORMED BY DRAFT
CURTAINS
(square feet)
VENT-AREA-TO
FLOOR-AREA
RATIO''
MAXIMUM SPACING
OF VENT CENTERS
(feet)
maximum distance
to vents from
wall or draft
curtain"
(feet)
Group F-1 and S-1
—
0.2 X H''
but>4
50,000
1:100
120
60
High-piled storage
(see Section 910.2.3)
I-IV
(Option 1)
<20
6
10,000
1:100
100
60
> 20 < 40
6
8,000
1:75
100
55
High-piled storage
(see Section 910.2.3)
I-IV
(Option 2)
<20
4
3,000
1:75
100
55
> 20 < 40
4
3,000
1:50
100
50
High-piled storage
(see Section 910.2.3)
High hazard
(Option 1)
<20
6
6,000
1:50
100
50
> 20 < 30
6
6,000
1:40
90
45
High-piled storage
(see Section 910.2.3)
High hazard
(Option 2)
<20
4
4,000
1:50
100
50
>20<30
4
2,000
1:30
75
40
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. Requirements for rack storage heights in excess of those indicated shall be in accordance with Chapter 23. For solid-piled storage heights in excess of those indi-
cated, an approved engineered design shall be used.
b. The distance specified is the maximum distance from any vent in a particular draft curtained area to walls or draft curtains which form the perimeter of the draft cur-
tained area.
c. Where draft curtains are not required, the vent area to floor area ratio shall be calculated based on a minimum draft curtain depth of 6 feet (Option 1).
d. "H" is the height of the vent, in feet, above the floor.
910.3.5 Draft curtains. Where required, draft curtains shall
be provided in accordance with this section.
Exception: Where areas of buildings are equipped with
ESFR sprinklers, draft curtains shall not be provided
within these areas. Draft curtains shall only be provided
at the separation between the ESFR sprinklers and the
conventional sprinklers.
910.3.5.1 Construction. Draft curtains shall be con-
structed of sheet metal, lath and plaster, gypsum board or
other approved materials that provide equivalent perfor-
mance to resist the passage of smoke. Joints and connec-
tions shall be smoke tight.
910.3.5.2 Location and depth. The location and mini-
mum depth of draft curtains shall be in accordance with
Table 910.3.
910.4 Mechanical smoke exhaust. Where approved by the
fire code official, engineered mechanical smoke exhaust shall
be an acceptable alternative to smoke and heat vents.
910.4.1 Location. Exhaust fans shall be uniformly spaced
within each draft-curtained area and the maximum distance
between fans shall not be greater than 1 00 feet (30 480 mm).
910.4.2 Size. Fans shall have a maximum individual capac-
ity of 30,000 cfm (14.2 mVs). The aggregate capacity of
smoke exhaust fans shall be determined by the equation:
C=Ax 300
(Equation 9-10)
where:
C = Capacity of mechanical ventilation required, in cubic
feet per minute (mVs).
A = Area of roof vents provided in square feet (m^) in
accordance with Table 910.3.
910.4.3 Operation. Mechanical smoke exhaust fans shall
be automatically activated by the automatic sprinkler sys-
tem or by heat detectors having operating characteristics
equivalent to those described in Section 910.3.2. Individual
manual controls for each fan unit shall also be provided.
910.4.4 Wiring and control. Wiring for operation and con-
trol of smoke exhaust fans shall be connected ahead of the
main disconnect and protected against exposure to tempera-
tures in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not less
than 15 minutes. Controls shall be located so as to be imme-
diately accessible to the fire service from the exterior of the
building and protected against interior fire exposure by fire
barriers having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 hour.
910.4.5 Supply air. Supply air for exhaust fans shall be pro-
vided at or near the floor level and shall be sized to provide a
minimum of 50 percent of required exhaust. Openings for
supply air shall be uniformly distributed around the periph-
ery of the area served.
910.4.6 Interlocks. On combination comfort air-han-
dling/smoke removal systems or independent comfort
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air-handling systems, fans shall be controlled to shut down
in accordance with the approved smoke control sequence.
SECTION 911
EXPLOSION CONTROL
911.1 General. Explosion control shall be provided in the fol-
lowing locations:
1 . Where a structure, room or space is occupied for pur-
poses involving explosion hazards as identified in Table
911.1.
2. Where quantities of hazardous materials specified in
Table 911.1 exceed the maximum allowable quantities
in Table 2703.1.1(1).
Such areas shall be provided with explosion (deflagration)
venting, explosion (deflagration) prevention systems, or barri-
cades in accordance with this section and NFPA 69, or NFPA
495 as applicable. Deflagration venting shall not be utilized as
a means to protect buildings from detonation hazards.
911.2 Required deflagration venting. Areas that are required
to be provided with deflagration venting shall comply with the
following:
1. Walls, ceilings and roofs exposing surrounding areas
shall be designed to resist a minimum internal pressure
TABLE 911.1
EXPLOSION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS
MATERIAL
CLASS
EXPLOSION CONTROL METHODS
Barricade
construction
Explosion (deflagration) venting
or explosion (deflagration)
prevention systems
Hazard Category
Combustible dusts^
—
Not required
Required
Cryogenic fluids
Flammable
Not required
Required
Explosives
Division 1.1
Division 1.2
Division 1.3
Division 1.4
Division 1.5
Division 1.6
Required
Required
Not required
Not required
Required
Required
Not required
Not required
Required
Required
Not required
Not required
Flammable gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
Not required
Not required
Required
Required
Flammable liquids
lA''
Not required
Not required
Required
Required
Organic peroxides
Unclassified detonable
I
Required
Required
Not permitted
Not permitted
Oxidizer liquids and solids
4
Required
Not permitted
Pyrophoric
Gases
Not required
Required
Unstable (reactive)
4
3 detonable
3 nondetonable
Required
Required
Not required
Not permitted
Not permitted
Required
Water-reactive liquids and solids
3
2<=
Not required
Not required
Required
Required
Special Uses
Acetylene generator rooms
—
Not required
Required
Grain processing
—
Not required
Required
Liquefied petroleum gas distribution facilities
—
Not required
Required
Where explosion hazards exist''
Detonation
Deflagration
Required
Not required
Not permitted
Required
a. Combustible dusts that are generated during manufacturing or processing. See definition of Combustible Dust in Chapter 2.
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.
98
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
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of 100 pounds per square foot (psf) (4788 Pa). The mini-
mum internal design pressure shall not be less than five
times the maximum internal relief pressure specified in
Section 91 1.2, Items.
2. Deflagration venting shall be provided only in exterior
walls and roofs.
Exception: Where sufficient exterior wall and roof
venting cannot be provided because of inadequate
exterior wall or roof area, deflagration venting shall
be allowed by specially designed shafts vented to the
exterior of the building.
3. Deflagration venting shall be designed to prevent unac-
ceptable structural damage. Where relieving a deflagra-
tion, vent closures shall not produce projectiles of
sufficient velocity and mass to cause life threatening
injuries to the occupants or other persons on the property
or adjacent public ways.
4. The aggregate clear area of vents and venting devices
shall be governed by the pressure resistance of the con-
struction assemblies specified in Item 1 of this section
and the maximum internal pressure allowed by Item 5 of
this section.
5. Vents shall be designed to withstand loads in accordance
with the International Building Code. Vents shall consist
of any one or any combination of the following to relieve
at a maximum internal pressure of 20 pounds per square
foot (958 Pa), but not less than the loads required by the
International Building Code:
5.1. Exterior walls designed to release outward.
5.2. Hatch covers.
5.3. Outward swinging doors.
5.4. Roofs designed to uplift.
5.5. Venting devices listed for the purpose.
6. Vents designed to release from the exterior walls or roofs
of the building when venting a deflagration shall dis-
charge directly to the exterior of the building where an
unoccupied space not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) in
width is provided between the exterior walls of the build-
ing and the property line.
Exception: Vents complying with Item 7 of this sec-
tion.
7. Vents designed to remain attached to the building when
venting a deflagration shall be so located that the dis-
charge opening shall not be less than 10 feet (3048 mm)
vertically from window openings and exits in the build-
ing and 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally from exits in the
building, from window openings and exits in adjacent
buildings on the same property, and from the property
line.
8. Discharge from vents shall not be into the interior of the
building.
911.3 Explosion prevention systems. Explosion prevention
systems shall be of an approved type and installed in accor-
dance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 69.
911.4 Barricades. Barricades shall be designed and installed
in accordance with NFPA 495.
SECTION 912
FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS
912.1 Installation. Fire department connections shall be
installed in accordance with the NFPA standard applicable to
the system design and shall comply with Sections 912.2
through 912.6.
912.2 Location. With respect to hydrants, driveways, build-
ings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so
located that fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the
system will not obstruct access to the buildings for other fire
apparatus. The location of fire department connections shall be
approved.
912.2.1 Visible location. Fire department connections shall
be located on the street side of buildings, fully visible and
recognizable from the street or nearest point of fire depart-
ment vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the fire
code official.
912.2.2 Existing buildings. On existing buildings, wher-
ever the fire department connection is not visible to
approaching fire apparatus, the fire department connection
shall be indicated by an approved sign mounted on the street
front or on the side of the building. Such sign shall have the
letters "FDC" at least 6 inches (152 mm) high and words in
letters at least 2 inches (51 mm) high or an arrow to indicate
the location. All such signs shall be subject to the approval
of the fire code official.
912.3 Access. Immediate access to fire department connec-
tions shall be maintained at all times and without obstruction
by fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other object for a mini-
mum of 3 feet (914 mm).
912.3.1 Locking fire department connection caps. The
fire code official is authorized to require locking caps on fire
department connections for water-based fire protection sys-
tems where the responding fire department carries appropri-
ate key wrenches for removal.
912.4 Signs. A metal sign with raised letters at least 1 inch (25
mm) in size shall be mounted on all fire department connec-
tions serving automatic sprinklers, standpipes or fire pump
connections. Such signs shall read: AUTOMATIC SPRIN-
KLERS or STANDPIPES or TEST CONNECTION or a com-
bination thereof as applicable.
912.5 Backflow protection. The potable water supply to auto-
matic sprinkler and standpipe systems shall be protected
against backflow as required by the International Plumbing
Code.
912.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. All fire depart-
ment connections shall be periodically inspected, tested and
maintained in accordance with NFPA 25.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
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SECTION 913
FIRE PUMPS
913.1 General. Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed
in accordance with this section and NFPA 20.
913.2 Protection against interruption of service. The fire
pump, driver, and controller shall be protected in accordance
with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through
damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents,
insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism and other adverse con-
ditions.
913.3 Temperature of pump room. Suitable means shall be
provided for maintaining the temperature of a pump room or
pump house, where required, above 40°F (5°C).
913.3.1 Engine manufacturer's recommendation. Tem-
perature of the pump room, pump house or area where
engines are installed shall never be less than the minimum
recommended by the engine manufacturer. The engine
manufacturer's recommendations for oil heaters shall be
followed.
913.4 Valve supervision. Where provided, the fire pump suc-
tion, discharge and bypass valves, and the isolation valves on
the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be super-
vised open by one of the following methods.
1 . Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling
service.
2. Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an
audible signal at a constantly attended location.
3. Locking valves open.
4. Sealing of valves and approved weekly recorded inspec-
tion where valves are located within fenced enclosures
under the control of the owner.
913.4.1 Test outlet valve supervision. Fire pump test outlet
valves shall be supervised in the closed position.
913.5 Testing and maintenance. Fire pumps shall be
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the
requirements of this section and NFPA 25.
913.5.1 Acceptance test. Acceptance testing shall be done
in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 20.
913.5.2 Generator sets. Engine generator sets supplying
emergency or standby power to fire pump assemblies shall
be periodically tested in accordance with NFPA 110.
913.5.3 Transfer switches. Automatic transfer switches
shall be periodically tested in accordance with NFPA 1 10.
913.5.4 Pump room environmental conditions. Tests of
pump room environmental conditions, including heating,
ventilation and illumination shall be made to ensure proper
manual or automatic operation of the associated equipment.
SECTION 914
FIRE PROTECTION BASED ON SPECIAL DETAILED
REQUIREMENTS OF USE AND OCCUPANCY
914.1 General. This section shall specify where fire protection
systems are required based on the detailed requirements of use
and occupancy of the International Building Code.
914.2 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings shall
comply with Sections 914.2.1 through 914.2.4.
914.2.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The covered mall
building and buildings connected shall be equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903.1.1, which shall comply with the
following:
1 . The automatic sprinkler system shall be complete and
operative throughout occupied space in the covered
mall building prior to occupancy of any of the tenant
spaces. Unoccupied tenant spaces shall be similarly
protected unless provided with approved alternate
protection.
2. Sprinkler protection for the mall shall be independent
from that provided for tenant spaces or anchors.
Where tenant spaces are supplied by the same system,
they shall be independently controlled.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall
not be required in spaces or areas of open parking
garages constructed in accordance with Section
406.2 of the International Building Code.
914.2.2 Standpipe system. The covered mall building shall
be equipped throughout with a standpipe system in accor-
dance with Section 905.
914.2.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system.
Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645
m^) in total floor area shall be provided with an emergency
voice/alarm communication system. Emergency
voice/alarm communication systems serving a mall,
required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire depart-
ment. The system shall be provided in accordance with Sec-
tion 907.2.12.2.
914.2.4 Fire department access to equipment. Rooms or
areas containing controls for air-conditioning systems,
automatic fire-extinguishing systems or other detection,
suppression or control elements shall be identified for use
by the fire department.
914.3 High-rise buildings. High-rise buildings shall comply
with Sections 914.3.1 through 914.3.5.
914.3.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Buildings and struc-
tures shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and a
secondary water supply where required by Section
903.3.5.2.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be
required in spaces or areas of:
1 . Open parking garages in accordance with Section
406.3 of the International Building Code.
100
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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2. Telecommunication equipment buildings used
exclusively for telecommunications equipment,
associated electrical power distribution equip-
ment, batteries and standby engines, provided that
those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with
an automatic fire detection system in accordance
with Section 907.2 and are separated from the
remainder of the building with fire barriers con-
sisting of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated
walls and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling
assemblies.
914.3.2 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detection shall
be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12.1.
914.3.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system.
An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be
provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
914.3.4 Fire department communication system. A
two-way fire department communication system shall be
provided for fire department use in accordance with Section
907.2.12.3.
914.3.5 Fire command. A fire command center complying
with Section 509 shall be provided in a location approved by
the fire department.
914.4 Atriums. Atriums shall comply with Sections 914.4.1
and 914.4.2.
914.4.1 Automatic sprinWer system. An approved auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the
entire building.
Exceptions:
1. That area of a building adjacent to or above the
atrium need not be sprinklered, provided that por-
tion of the building is separated from the atrium
portion by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier.
2. Where the ceilings of the atrium are more than 55
feet (16 764 mm) above the floor, sprinkler protec-
tion at the ceiling of the atrium is not required.
914.4.2 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be
provided where required by Section 907.2.13.
914.5 Underground buildings. Underground buildings shall
comply with Sections 914.5.1 through 914.5.6.
914.5.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The highest level of
exit discharge serving the underground portions of the
building and all levels below shall be equipped with an auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1. Water-flow switches and control valves shall be
supervised in accordance with Section 903.4.
914.5.2 Smoke control system. A smoke control system is
required to control the migration of products of combustion
in accordance with Section 909 and provisions of this sec-
tion. Smoke control shall restrict movement of smoke to the
general area of fire origin and maintain means of egress in a
usable condition.
914.5.3 Compartment smoke control system. Where
compartmentation is required by Section 405.4 of the Inter-
national Building Code, each compartment shall have an
independent smoke-control system. The system shall be
automatically activated and capable of manual operation in
accordance with Section 907.2.18.
914.5.4 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be
provided where required by Section 907.2.19.
914.5.5 Public address. A pubhc address system shall be
provided where required by Section 907.2.19.1.
914.5.6 Standpipe system. The underground building shall
be provided throughout with a standpipe system in accor-
dance with Section 905.
914.6 Stages. Stages shall comply with Sections 914.6.1 and
914.6.2.
914.6.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall be
equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system in
accordance with Chapter 9. Sprinklers shall be installed
under the roof and gridiron and under all catwalks and gal-
leries over the stage. Sprinklers shall be installed in dressing
rooms, performer lounges, shops and storerooms accessory
to such stages.
Exceptions:
1 . Sprinklers are not required under stage areas less
than 4 feet (1219 mm) in clear height utilized
exclusively for storage of tables and chairs, pro-
vided the concealed space is separated from the
adjacent spaces by not less than Vg-inch (15.9 mm)
Type X gypsum board.
2. Sprinklers are not required for stages 1 ,000 square
feet (93 m^) or less in area and 50 feet (15 240 mm)
or less in height where curtains, scenery or other
combustible hangings are not retiractable verti-
cally. Combustible hangings shall be limited to a
single main curtain, borders, legs and a single
backdrop.
3 . Sprinklers are not required within portable orches-
tra enclosures on stages.
914.6.2 Standpipe system. Standpipe systems shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section 905.
914.7 Special amusement buildings. Special amusement
buildings shall comply with Sections 914.7.1 and 914.7.2.
914.7.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Special amusement
buildings shall be equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Where the special amusement building is temporary, the
sprinkler water supply shall be of an approved temporary
means.
Exception: Automatic sprinklers are not required where
the total floor area of a temporary special amusement
building is less than 1,000 square feet (93 m^) and the
travel distance from any point to an exit is less than 50
feet (15 240 mm).
914.7.2 Automatic fire detection. Special amusement
buildings shall be equipped with an automatic fire detection
system in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
101
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
914.8 Aircraft-related occupancies. Aircraft-related occu-
pancies shall comply with Sections 914.8.1 through 914.8.5.
914.8.1 Automatic fire detection systems. Airport traffic
control towers shall be provided with an automatic fire
detection system installed in accordance with Section
907.2.
914.8.2 Fire suppression. Aircraft hangars shall be pro-
vided with fire suppression as required by NFPA 409.
Exception: Group II hangars, as defined in NFPA 409,
storing private aircraft without major maintenance or
overhaul are exempt from foam suppression require-
ments.
914.8.3 Finisliing. The process of "doping," involving the
use of a volatile flammable solvent, or of painting shall be
carried on in a separate detached building equipped with
automatic fire-extinguishing equipment in accordance with
Section 903.
914.8.4 Residential aircraft hangar smoke alarms.
Smoke alarms shall be provided within residential aircraft
hangars in accordance with Section 907.2.21.
914.8.5 Aircraft paint hangar fire suppression. Aircraft
paint hangars shall be provided with fire suppression as
required by NFPA 409.
914.9 Application of flammable finishes. An automatic
fire-extinguishing system shall be provided in all spray, dip and
immersing spaces and storage rooms, and shall be installed in
accordance with Chapter 9.
914.10 Drying rooms. Drying rooms designed for high-haz-
ard materials and processes, including special occupancies as
provided for in Chapter 4 of the International Building Code,
shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing
system complying with the provisions of Chapter 9.
102
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 1001
ADMINISTRATION
1001.1 General. Buildings or portions thereof shall be pro-
vided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter.
The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, con-
struction and arrangement of means of egress components
required to provide an approved means of egress from struc-
tures and portions thereof. Sections 1003 through 1026 shall
apply to new construction. Sections 1027 and 1028 shall apply
to existing buildings.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and
multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more
than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate
means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply
with the International Residential Code.
1001.2 Minimum requirements. It shall be unlawful to alter a
building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of
exits or the capacity of the means of egress to less than required
by this code..
[BISECTION 1002
DEFINITIONS
1002.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and
unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in
a building or facility to a public way.
AISLE. An exit access component that defines and provides a
path of egress travel.
AISLE ACCESSWAY. That portion of an exit access that
leads to an aisle.
ALTERNATING TREAD DEVICE. A device that has a
series of steps between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and 1.22 rad)
from horizontal, usually attached to a center support rail in an
alternating manner so that the user does not have both feet on
the same level at the same time.
AREA OF REFUGE. An area where persons unable to use
stairways can remain temporarily to await instructions or assis-
tance during emergency evacuation.
BLEACHERS. Tiered seating facilities.
COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL. That portion of
exit access which the occupants are required to traverse before
two separate and distinct paths of egress travel to two exits are
available. Paths that merge are common paths of travel. Com-
mon paths of egress travel shall be included within the permit-
ted travel distance.
CORRIDOR. An enclosed exit access component that defines
and provides a path of egress travel to an exit.
DOOR, BALANCED. A door equipped with double-pivoted
hardware so designed as to cause a semicounterbalanced swing
action when opening.
EGRESS COURT. A court or yard which provides access to a
public way for one or more exits.
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING. An
operable window, door or other similar device that provides for
a means of escape and access for rescue in the event of an emer-
gency.
EXIT. That portion of a means of egress system which is sepa-
rated from other interior spaces of a building or structure by
fire-resistance-rated construction and opening protectives as
required to provide a protected path of egress travel between
the exit access and the exit discharge. Exits include exterior exit
doors at ground level, exit enclosures, exit passageways, exte-
rior exit stairs, exterior exit ramps and horizontal exits.
EXIT, HORIZONTAL. A path of egress travel from one
building to an area in another building on approximately the
same level, or a path of egress travel through or around a wall or
partition to an area on approximately the same level in the same
building, which affords safety from fire and smoke from the
area of incidence and areas communicating therewith.
EXIT ACCESS. That portion of a means of egress system that
leads from any occupied portion of a building or structure to an
exit.
EXIT DISCHARGE. That portion of a means of egress sys-
tem between the termination of an exit and a public way.
EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OR The horizontal plane
located at the point at which an exit terminates and an exit dis-
charge begins.
EXIT ENCLOSURE. An exit component that is separated
from other interior spaces of a building or structure by
fire-resistance-rated construction and opening protectives, and
provides for a protected path of egress travel in a vertical or hor-
izontal direction to the exit discharge or the public way.
EXIT PASSAGEWAY. An exit component that is separated
from all other interior spaces of a building or structure by
fire-resistance-rated construction and opening protectives, and
provides for a protected path of egress travel in a horizontal
direction to the exit discharge or the public way.
FIRE EXIT HARDWARE. Panic hardware that is listed for
use on fire door assemblies.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS. The floor area within the inside per-
imeter of the exterior walls of the building under consideration,
exclusive of vent shafts and courts, without deduction for corri-
dors, stairways, closets, the thickness of interior walls, col-
umns or other features. The floor area of a building, or portion
thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be
the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
103
MEANS OF EGRESS
floor above. The gross floor area shall not include shafts with
no openings or interior courts.
FLOOR AREA, NET. The actual occupied area not including
unoccupied accessory areas such as corridors, stairways, toilet
rooms, mechanical rooms and closets.
FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC SEATING. Tiered seating
facilities having an overall shape and size that are capable of
being reduced for purposes of moving or storing.
GRANDSTAND. Tiered seating facilities.
GUARD. A building component or a system of building com-
ponents located at or near the open sides of elevated walking
surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walk-
ing surface to a lower level.
HANDRAIL. A horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasp-
ing by the hand for guidance or support.
MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed path
of vertical and horizontal egress travel from any occupied por-
tion of a building or structure to a public way. A means of
egress consists of three separate and distinct parts: the exit
access, the exit and the exit discharge.
MERCHANDISE PAD. A merchandise pad is an area for dis-
play of merchandise surrounded by aisles, permanent fixtures
or walls. Merchandise pads contain elements such as nonfixed
and moveable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions as
indicated in Section 105.2 of the International Building Code
from which customers browse or shop.
NOSING. The leading edge of treads of stairs and of landings
at the top of stairway flights.
OCCUPANT LOAD. The number of persons for which the
means of egress of a building or portion thereof is designed.
PANIC HARDWARE. A door-latching assembly incorporat-
ing a device that releases the latch upon the application of a
force in the direction of egress travel.
PUBLIC WAY. A street, alley or other parcel of land open to
the outside air leading to a street, that has been deeded, dedi-
cated or otherwise permanently appropriated to the public for
public use and which has a clear width and height of not less
than 10 feet (3048 mm).
RAMP. A walking surface that has a running slope steeper than
one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5 -percent slope).
SCISSOR STAIR. Two interlocking stairways providing two
separate paths of egress located within one stairwell enclosure.
SMOKE-PROTECTED ASSEMBLY SEATING. Seating
served by means of egress that is not subject to smoke accumu-
lation within or under a structure.
STAIR. A change in elevation, consisting of one or more ris-
ers.
STAIRWAY. One or more flights of stairs, either exterior or
interior, with the necessary landings and platforms connecting
them, to form a continuous and uninterrupted passage from one
level to another.
STAIRWAY, EXTERIOR. A stairway that is open on at least
one side, except for required structural columns, beams, hand-
rails and guards. The adjoining open areas shall be either yards,
courts or public ways. The other sides of the exterior stairway
need not be open.
STAIRWAY, INTERIOR. A stairway not meeting the defini-
tion of an exterior stairway.
STAIRWAY, SPIRAL. A stairway having a closed circular
form in its plan view with uniform section-shaped treads
attached to and radiating from a minimum-diameter supporting
column.
WINDER. A tread with nonparallel edges.
[BISECTION 1003
GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS
1003.1 Applicability. The general requirements specified in
Sections 1003 through 1013 shall apply to all three elements of
the means of egress system, in addition to those specific
requirements for the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge
detailed elsewhere in this chapter.
1003.2 Ceiling height. The means of egress shall have a ceiling
height of not less than 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm). |
Exceptions:
1. Sloped ceilings in accordance with Section 1208.2 of
the International Building Code.
2. Ceilings of dwelling units and sleeping units within
residential occupancies in accordance with Section
1208.2 of the International Building Code.
3. Allowable projections in accordance with Section
1003.3.
4. Stair headroom in accordance with Section 1009.2.
5. Door height in accordance with Section 1008.1.1.
1003.3 Protruding objects. Protruding objects shall comply
with the requirements of Sections 1003.3.1 through 1003.3.4.
1003.3.1 Headroom. Protruding objects are permitted to
extend below the minimum ceiling height required by Sec-
tion 1003.2 provided a minimum headroom of 80 inches
(2032 mm) shall be provided for any walking surface,
including walks, corridors, aisles and passageways. Not
more than 50 percent of the ceiling area of a means of egress
shall be reduced in height by protruding objects.
Exception: Door closers and stops shall not reduce
headroom to less than 78 inches (1981 mm).
A barrier shall be provided where the vertical clearance is
less than 80 inches (2032 mm) high. The leading edge of
such a barrier shall be located 27 inches (686 mm) maxi-
mum above the floor.
1003.3.2 Free-standing objects. A free-standing object
mounted on a post or pylon shall not overhang that post or
pylon more than 4 inches (102 mm) where the lowest point
of the leading edge is more than 27 inches (686 mm) and
less than 80 inches (2032 mm) above the walking surface.
Where a sign or other obstruction is mounted between posts
or pylons and the clear distance between the posts or pylons
104
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
MEANS OF EGRESS
is greater than 12 inches (305 mm), the lowest edge of such
sign or obstruction shall be 27 inches (685 mm) maximum
or 80 inches (2030 mm) minimum above the finished floor
or ground.
Exception: This requirement shall not apply to sloping
portions of handrails serving stairs and ramps.
1003.3.3 Horizontal projections. Structural elements, fix-
tures or furnishings shall not project horizontally from
either side more than 4 inches (102 mm) over any walking
surface between the heights of 27 inches (686 mm) and 80
inches (2032 mm) above the walking surface.
Exception: Handrails serving stairs and ramps are per-
mitted to protrude 4.5 inches (114 mm) from the wall.
1003.3.4 Clear width. Protruding objects shall not reduce
the minimum clear width of accessible routes as required in
Section 1 104 of the International Building Code.
1003.4 Floor surface. Walking surfaces of the means of egress
shall have a slip-resistant surface and be securely attached.
1003.5 Elevation change. Where changes in elevation of less
than 12 inches (305 mm) exist in the means of egress, sloped
surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than one unit
vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), ramps comply-
ing with Section 1010 shall be used. Where the difference in
elevation is 6 inches (152 mm) or less, the ramp shall be
equipped with either handrails or floor finish materials that
contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.
Exceptions:
1 . A single step with a maximum riser height of 7 inches
(178 nam) is permitted for buildings with occupancies
in Groups F, H, R-2 and R-3 and Groups S and U at
exterior doors not required to be accessible by Chap-
ter 1 1 of the International Building Code.
2. A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a tread
is permitted at locations not required to be accessible
by Chapter 1 1 of the International Building Code,
provided that the risers and treads comply with Sec-
tion 1009.3, the minimum depth of the tread is 13
inches (330 mm) and at least one handrail complying
with Section 1012 is provided within 30 inches (762
mm) of the centerline of the normal path of egress
travel on the stair.
3. A step is permitted in aisles serving seating that has a
difference in elevation less than 12 inches (305 mm)
at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter
1 1 of the International Building Code, provided that
the risers and treads comply with Section 1025. 1 1 and
the aisle is provided with a handrail complying with
Section 1025.13.
Any change in elevation in a corridor serving
nonambulatory persons in a Group 1-2 occupancy shall be by
means of a ramp or sloped walkway.
1003.6 Means of egress continuity. The path of egress travel
along a means of egress shall not be interrupted by any building
element other than a means of egress component as specified in
this chapter. Obstructions shall not be placed in the required
width of a means of egress except projections permitted by this
chapter. The required capacity of a means of egress system
shall not be diminished along the path of egress travel.
1003.7 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators,
escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component of
a required means of egress from any other part of the building.
Exception: Elevators used as an accessible means of egress
in accordance with Section 1007.4.
[BISECTION 1004
OCCUPANT LOAD
1004.1 Design occupant load. In determining means of egress
requirements, the number of occupants for whom means of
egress facilities shall be provided shall be determined in accor-
dance with this section. Where occupants from accessory areas
egress through a primary space, the calculated occupant load
for the primary space shall include the total occupant load of
the primary space plus the number of occupants egressing
through it from the accessory area.
1004.1.1 Areas without fixed seating. The number of
occupants shall be computed at the rate of one occupant per
unit of area as prescribed in Table 1004. 1.1. For areas with-
out fixed seating, the occupant load shall not be less than
that number determined by dividing the floor area under
consideration by the occupant per unit of area factor
assigned to the occupancy as set forth in Table 1004.1.1.
Where an intended use is not hsted in Table 1004.1.1, the
building official shall establish a use based on a listed use
that most nearly resembles the intended use.
Exception: Where approved by the building official, the
actual number of occupants for whom each occupied
space, floor or building is designed, although less than
those determined by calculation, shall be permitted to be
used in the determination of the design occupant load.
1004.2 Increased occupant load. The occupant load permitted in
any building, or portion thereof, is permitted to be increased from
that number established for the occupancies in Table 1004.1.1,
provided that all other requirements of the code are also met
based on such modified number and the occupant load does not
exceed one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m^) of occupiable
floor space. Where required by the fire code official, an approved
aisle, seating or fixed equipment diagram substantiating any
increase in occupant load shall be submitted. Where required by
the fire code official, such diagram shall be posted.
1004.3 Posting of occupant load. Every room or space that is
an assembly occupancy shall have the occupant load of the
room or space posted in a conspicuous place, near the main exit
or exit access doorway from the room or space. Posted signs
shall be of an approved legible permanent design and shall be
maintained by the owner or authorized agent.
1004.4 Exiting from multiple levels. Where exits serve more
than one floor, only the occupant load of each floor considered
individually shall be used in computing the required capacity
of the exits at that floor, provided that the exit capacity shall not
decrease in the direction of egress travel.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
105
MEANS OF EGRESS
TABLE 1004.1.1
MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT
FUNCTION OF SPACE
FLOOR AREA IN SO.
FT. PER OCCUPANT
Agricultural building
300 gross
Aircraft hangars
500 gross
Airport terminal
Baggage claim
Baggage handling
Concourse
Waiting areas
20 gross
300 gross
100 gross
15 gross
Assembly
Gaming floors (keno, slots, etc.)
1 1 gross
Assembly with fixed seats
See Section 1004.7
Assembly without fixed seats
Concentrated (chairs only — not fixed)
Standing space
Unconcentrated (tables and chairs)
7 net
5 net
15 net
Bowling centers, allow 5 persons for each
lane including 15 feet of runway, and for
additional areas
7 net
Business areas
100 gross
Courtrooms — other than fixed seating areas
40 net
Day care
35 net
Dormitories
50 gross
Educational
Classroom area
Shops and other vocational room areas
20 net
50 net
Exercise rooms
50 gross
H-5 Fabrication and manufacturing areas
200 gross
Industrial areas
100 gross
Institutional areas
Inpatient treatment areas
Outpatient areas
Sleeping areas
240 gross
100 gross
120 gross
Kitchens, commercial
200 gross
Library
Reading rooms
Stack area
50 net
100 gross
Locker rooms
50 gross
Mercantile
Areas on other floors
Basement and grade floor areas
Storage, stock, shipping areas
60 gross
30 gross
300 gross
Parking garages
200 gross
Residential
200 gross
Skating rinks, swimming pools
Rink and pool
Decks
50 gross
15 gross
Stages and platforms
15 net
Accessory storage areas, mechanical
equipment room
300 gross
Warehouses
500 gross
1004.5 Egress convergence. Where means of egress from
floors above and below converge at an intermediate level, the
capacity of the means of egress from the point of convergence
shall not be less than the sum of the two floors.
1004.6 Mezzanine levels. The occupant load of a mezzanine
level with egress onto a room or area below shall be added to
that room or area's occupant load, and the capacity of the exits
shall be designed for the total occupant load thus established.
1004.7 Fixed seating. For areas having fixed seats and aisles,
the occupant load shall be determined by the number of fixed
seats installed therein. The occupant load for areas in which
fixed seating is not installed, such as waiting spaces and wheel-
chair spaces, shall be determined in accordance with Section
1004.1.1 and added to the number of fixed seats.
For areas having fixed seating without dividing arms, the
occupant load shall not be less than the number of seats based
on one person for each 1 8 inches (457 mm) of seating length.
The occupant load of seating booths shall be based on one
person for each 24 inches (610 mm) of booth seat length mea-
sured at the backrest of the seating booth.
1004.8 Outdoor areas. Yards, patios, courts and similar out-
door areas accessible to and usable by the building occupants
shall be provided with means of egress as required by this chap-
ter. The occupant load of such outdoor areas shall be assigned
by the fire code official in accordance with the anticipated use.
Where outdoor areas are to be used by persons in addition to the
occupants of the building, and the path of egress travel from the
outdoor areas passes through the building, means of egress
requirements for the building shall be based on the sum of the
occupant loads of the building plus the outdoor areas.
Exceptions:
1. Outdoor areas used exclusively for service of the
building need only have one means of egress.
2. Both outdoor areas associated with Group R-3 and
individual dwelling units of Group R-2.
1004.9 Multiple occupancies. Where a building contains two
or more occupancies, the means of egress requirements shall
apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of
that space. Where two or more occupancies utilize portions of
the same means of egress system, those egress components
shall meet the more stringent requirements of all occupancies
that are served.
[BISECTION 1005
EGRESS WIDTH
1005.1 Minimum required egress width. The means of
egress width shall not be less than required by this section. The
total width of means of egress in inches (rmn) shall not be less
than the total occupant load served by the means of egress mul-
tiplied by the factors in Table 1 005 . 1 and not less than specified
elsewhere in this code. Multiple means of egress shall be sized
such that the loss of any one means of egress shall not reduce
the available capacity to less than 50 percent of the required
capacity. The maximum capacity required from any story of a
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^
106
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
MEANS OF EGRESS
building shall be maintained to the termination of the means of
egress.
Exception: Means of egress complying with Section 1025.
TABLE 1005.1
EGRESS WIDTH PER OCCUPANT SERVED
OCCUPANCY
WITHOUT
SPRINKLER SYSTEM
WITH
SPRINKLER SYSTEM'
Stairways
(inches per
occupant)
Other egress
components
(inches per
occupant)
Stairways
(inches per
occupant)
Other egress
components
(inches per
occupant)
Occupancies
other than those
Usted below
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.15
Hazardous: H-1,
H-2, H-3 and H-4
0.7
0.4
0.3
0.2
Institutional: 1-2
NA
NA
0.3
0.2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. NA = Not applicable.
a. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
1005.2 Door encroachment. Doors opening into the path of
egress travel shall not reduce the required width to less than
one-half during the course of the swing. When fully open, the
door shall not project more than 7 inches (178 mm) into the
required width.
Exception: The restrictions on a door swing shall not apply
to doors within individual dwelling units and sleeping units
of Group R-2 and dwelling units of Group R-3.
In the event of power supply failure, an emergency electrical
system shall automatically illuminate the following areas:
1. Aisles and unenclosed egress stairways in rooms and
spaces that require two or more means of egress.
2. Corridors, exit enclosures and exit passageways in build-
ings required to have two or more exits.
3 . Exterior egress components at other than the level of exit
discharge until exit discharge is accomplished for build-
ings required to have two or more exits.
4. Interior exit discharge elements, as permitted in Section
1024. 1 , in buildings required to have two or more exits.
5. Exterior landings, as required by Section 1008.1.5, for
exit discharge doorways in buildings required to have
two or more exits.
The emergency power system shall provide power for a
duration of not less than 90 minutes and shall consist of storage
batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installa-
tion of the emergency power system shall be in accordance
with Section 2702 of the International Building Code.
1006.4 Performance of system. Emergency lighting facilities
shall be arranged to provide initial illumination that is at least
an average of 1 foot-candle (11 lux) and a minimum at any
point of 0.1 foot-candle (1 lux) measured along the path of
egress at floor level. Illumination levels shall be permitted to
decline to 0.6 foot-candle (6 lux) average and a minimum at
any point of 0.06 foot-candle (0.6 lux) at the end of the emer-
gency lighting time duration. A maximum- to-minimum illu-
mination uniformity ratio of 40 to 1 shall not be exceeded.
[BISECTION 1006
MEANS OF EGRESS ILLUMINATION
1006.1 Illumination required. The means of egress, including
the exit discharge, shall be illuminated at all times the building
space served by the means of egress is occupied.
Exceptions:
1. Occupancies in Group U.
2. Aisle accessways in Group A.
3. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Groups R-1, R-2
and R-3.
4. Sleeping units of Group I occupancies.
1006.2 Illumination level. The means of egress illumination
level shall not be less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking
surface level.
Exception: For auditoriums, theaters, concert or opera halls
and similar assembly occupancies, the illumination at the
walking surface level is permitted to be reduced during per-
formances to not less than 0,2 foot-candle (2.15 lux), pro-
vided that the required illumination is automatically
restored upon activation of a premises' fire alarm system
where such system is provided.
1006.3 Illumination emergency power. The power supply for
means of egress illumination shall normally be provided by the
premises' electrical supply.
[BISECTION 1007
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
1007.1 Accessible means of egress required. Accessible
means of egress shall comply with this section. Accessible
spaces shall be provided with not less than one accessible
means of egress. Where more than one means of egress is
required by Section 1015.1 or 1019.1 from any accessible
space, each accessible portion of the space shall be served by
not less than two accessible means of egress.
Exceptions:
1. Accessible means of egress are not required in alter-
ations to existing buildings.
2. One accessible means of egress is required from an
accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Sec-
tion 1007.3, 1007.4 or 1007.5.
3. In assembly spaces with sloped floors, one accessible
means of egress is required from a space where the
common path of travel of the accessible route for
access to the wheelchair spaces meets the require-
ments in Section 1025.8.
1007.2 Continuity and components. Each required accessi-
ble means of egress shall be continuous to a public way and
shall consist of one or more of the following components:
1. Accessible routes complying with Section 1104 of the
International Building Code.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
107
MEANS OF EGRESS
2. Stairways within vertical exit enclosures complying with
Sections 1007.3 and 1020.
3. Exterior exit stairways complying with Sections 1007.3
and 1023.
4. Elevators complying with Section 1007.4.
5. Platform lifts complying with Section 1007.5.
6. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1021.
7. Ramps complying with Section 1010.
8. Areas of refuge complying with Section 1007.6.
Exceptions:
1 . Where the exit discharge is not accessible, an exterior
area for assisted rescue must be provided in accor-
dance with Section 1007.8.
2. Where the exit stairway is open to the exterior, the
accessible means of egress shall include either an area
of refuge in accordance with Section 1007.6 or an
exterior area for assisted rescue in accordance with
Section 1007.8.
1007.2.1 Elevators required. In buildings where a required
accessible floor is four or more stories above or below a
level of exit discharge, at least one required accessible
means of egress shall be an elevator complying with Section
1007.4.
Exceptions:
1. In buildings equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator
shall not be required on floors provided with a hor-
izontal exit and located at or above the level of exit
discharge.
2. In buildings equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator
shall not be required on floors provided with a
ramp conforming to the provisions of Section
1010.
11007.3 Exit stairways. In order to be considered part of an
accessible means of egress, an exit stairway shall have a clear
width of 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum between handrails
and shall either incorporate an area of refuge within an
enlarged floor-level landing or shall be accessed from either an
area of refuge complying with Section 1007.6 or a horizontal
exit.
Exceptions:
1. Unenclosed exit stairways as permitted by Section
1020.1 are permitted to be considered part of an
accessible means of egress.
12. The area of refuge is not required at unenclosed exit
stairways as permitted by Section 1020. 1 in buildings
or facilities that are equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance I
with Section 903.3.1.1. H
3. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between
handrails is not required at exit stairways in buildings |
or facilities equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3. 1.2.
4. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between
handrails is not required for exit stairways accessed I
from a horizontal exit.
5 . Areas of refuge are not required at exit stairways serv-
ing open parking garages.
1007.4 Elevators. In order to be considered part of an accessi-
ble means of egress, an elevator shall comply with the emer-
gency operation and signaling device requirements of Section
2.27 of ASME A17.1. Standby power shall be provided in
accordance with Section 604.2.5 of this code and Section 3003
of the International Building Code. The elevator shall be
accessed from either an area of refuge complying with Section
1007.6 or a horizontal exit.
Exception: Elevators are not required to be accessed from
an area of refuge or horizontal exit in open parking garages.
1007.5 Platform lifts. Platform (wheelchair) lifts shall not *"
serve as part of an accessible means of egress, except where
allowed as part of a required accessible route in Section 1 109.7,
Items 1 through 9 of the International Building Code. Standby
power shall be provided in accordance with Section 604.2.6
for platform lifts permitted to serve as part of a means of egress.
1007.5.1 Openness. Platform lifts on an accessible means
of egress shall not be installed in a fully enclosed or fire-
rated shaft.
1007.6 Areas of refuge. Every required area of refuge shall be
accessible from the space it serves by an accessible means of
egress. The maximum travel distance from any accessible
space to an area of refuge shall not exceed the travel distance
permitted for the occupancy in accordance with Section
1016.1. Every required area of refuge shall have direct access
to an enclosed stairway complying with Sections 1007.3 and
1020.1 or an elevator complying with Section 1007.4. Where
an elevator lobby is used as an area of refuge, the shaft and
lobby shall comply with Section 1020.1.7 for smokeproof
enclosures except where the elevators are in an area of refuge
formed by a horizontal exit or smoke barrier.
1007.6.1 Size. Each area of refuge shall be sized to accom-
modate one wheelchair space of 30 inches by 48 inches (762
mm by 1 2 1 9 mm) for each 200 occupants or portion thereof,
based on the occupant load of the area of refuge and areas
served by the area of refuge. Such wheelchair spaces shall
not reduce the required means of egress width. Access to
any of the required wheelchair spaces in an area of refuge
shall not be obstructed by more than one adjoining wheel-
chair space.
1007.6.2 Separation. Each area of refuge shall be separated
from the remainder of the story by a smoke barrier comply-
108
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
MEANS OF EGRESS
ing with Section 709 of the International Building Code or a
horizontal exit complying with Section 1021. Each area of
refuge shall be designed to minimize the intrusion of smoke.
Exception: Areas of refuge located within a vertical
exit enclosure.
1007.6.3 Two-way communication. Areas of refuge shall
be provided with a two-way communication system
between the area of refuge and a central control point. If the
central control point is not constantly attended, the area of
refuge shall also have controlled access to a public tele-
phone system. Location of the central control point shall be
approved by the fire department. The two-way communica-
tion system shall include both audible and visible signals.
1007.6.4 Instructions. In areas of refuge that have a
two-way emergency communications system, instructions
on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be
posted adjoining the communications system. The instruc-
tions shall include all of the following:
1. Directions to find other means of egress.
2. Persons able to use the exit stairway do so as soon as
possible, unless they are assisting others.
3. Information on planned availability of assistance in
the use of stairs or supervised operation of elevators
and how to summon such assistance.
4. Directions for use of the emergency communications
system.
1007.6.5 Identification. Each door providing access to an
area of refuge from an adjacent floor area shall be identified
by a sign complying with ICC A117.1, stating: AREA OF
REFUGE, and including the International Symbol of
Accessibility. Where exit sign illumination is required by
Section 101 1.2, the area of refuge sign shall be illuminated.
Additionally, tactile signage complying with ICC A 11 7.1
shall be located at each door to an area of refuge.
1007.7 Signage. At exits and elevators serving a required
accessible space but not providing an approved accessible
means of egress, signage shall be installed indicating the loca-
tion of accessible means of egress.
1007.8 Exterior area for assisted rescue. The exterior area for
assisted rescue must be open to the outside air and meet the
requirements of Section 1007.6.1. Separation walls shall com-
ply with the requirements of Section 704 of the International
Building Code for exterior walls. Where walls or openings are
between the area for assisted rescue and the interior of the
building, the building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm)
horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening shall
have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings
within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening
protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than ^/^
hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground
to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor level of the area for
assisted rescue or to the roof line, whichever is lower.
1007.8.1 Openness. The exterior area for assisted rescue
shall be at least 50 percent open, and the open area above the
guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumula-
tion of smoke or toxic gases.
1007.8.2 Exterior exit stairway. Exterior exit stairways
that are part of the means of egress for the exterior area for
assisted rescue shall provide a clear width of 48 inches
(1219 mm) between handrails.
1007.8.3 Identification. Exterior areas for assisted rescue
shall have identification as required for area of refuge that
complies with Section 1007.6.5.
[BISECTION 1008
DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES
1008.1 Doors. Means of egress doors shall meet the require-
ments of this section. Doors serving a means of egress system
shall meet the requirements of this section and Section 1017.2.
Doors provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than
required by this code shall meet the requirements of this sec-
tion.
Means of egress doors shall be readily distinguishable from
the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are
easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting
materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of
egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decora-
tions or similar materials.
1008.1.1 Size of doors. The minimum width of each door
opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and
shall provide a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813
mm). Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors
shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop,
with the door open 90 degrees (1 .57 rad). Where this section
requires a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm) and
a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion,
one leaf shall provide a clear opening width of 32 inches
(813 mm). The maximum width of a swinging door leaf
shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of egress
doors in a Group 1-2 occupancy used for the movement of
beds shall provide a clear width not less than 41.5 inches
(1054 mm). The height of doors shall not be less than 80
inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . The minimum and maximum width shall not apply
to door openings that are not part of the required
means of egress in Group R-2 and R-3 occupan-
cies.
2. Door openings to resident sleeping units in Group
1-3 occupancies shall have a clear width of not less
than 28 inches (711 mm).
3. Door openings to storage closets less than 10
square feet (0.93 m^) in area shall not be limited by
the minimum width.
4. Width of door leafs in revolving doors that comply
with Section 1008.1.3.1 shall not be hmited.
5. Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping
unit shall not be less than 78 inches (1981 mm) in
height.
6. Exterior door openings in dwelling units and
sleeping units, other than the required exit door.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
109
MEANS OF EGRESS
shall not be less than 76 inches (1930 mm) in
height.
7. In other than Group R-1 occupancies, the mini-
mum widths shall not apply to interior egress doors
within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit that is not
required to be an Accessible unit, Type A unit or
Type B unit.
8. Door openings required to be accessible within
Type B units shall have a minimum clear width of
31.75 inches (806 mm).
1008.1.1.1 Projections into clear width. There shall not
be projections into the required clear width lower than 34
inches (864 mm) above the floor or ground. Projections
into the clear opening width between 34 inches (864
mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) above the floor or ground
shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm).
1008.1.2 Door swing. Egress doors shall be side-hinged
swinging.
Exceptions:
1. Private garages, office areas, factory and storage
areas with an occupant load of 10 or less.
2. Group 1-3 occupancies used as a place of deten-
tion.
3. Critical or intensive care patient rooms within
suites of health care facilities.
4. Doors within or serving a single dwelling unit in
Groups R-2 and R-3.
5. In other than Group H occupancies, revolving
doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.1.
6. In other than Group H occupancies, horizontal
sliding doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.3
are permitted in a means of egress.
7. Power-operated doors in accordance with Section
1008.1.3.2.
8. Doors serving a bathroom within an individual
sleeping unit in Group R-1.
Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel where
serving an occupant load of 50 or more persons or a Group
H occupancy.
The opening force for interior side-swinging doors with-
out closers shall not exceed a 5-pound (22 N) force. For
other side-swinging, sliding and folding doors, the door
latch shall release when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N)
force. The door shall be set in motion when subjected to a
30-pound (133 N) force. The door shall swing to a full-open
position when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. Forces
shall be applied to the latch side.
1008.1.3 Special doors. Special doors and security grilles
shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1008.1.3.1
through 1008.1.3.5.
1008.1.3.1 Revolving doors. Revolving doors shall
comply with the following:
1 . Each revolving door shall be capable of collapsing
into a bookfold position with parallel egress paths
providing an aggregate width of 36 inches (914
mm).
2. A revolving door shall not be located within 10
feet (3048 mm) of the foot of or top of stairs or
escalators. A dispersal area shall be provided
between the stairs or escalators and the revolving
doors.
3. The revolutions per minute (rpm) for a revolving
door shall not exceed those shown in Table
1008.1.3.1.
4. Each revolving door shall have a side-hinged
swinging door which complies with Section
1008.1 in the same wall and within 10 feet (3048
mm) of the revolving door.
TABLE 1008.1.3.1
REVOLVING DOOR SPEEDS
INSIDE DIAMETER
(feet-inches)
POWER-DRIVEN-TYPE
SPEED CONTROL
(rpm)
MANUAL-TYPE
SPEED CONTROL
(rpm)
6-6
11
12
7-0
10
11
7-6
9
11
8-0
9
10
8-6
8
9
9-0
8
9
9-6
7
8
10-0
7
8
For Sr. 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
1008.1.3.1.1 Egress component. A revolving door
used as a component of a means of egress shall com-
ply with Section 1008.1.3.1 and the following three
conditions:
1. Revolving doors shall not be given credit for
more than 50 percent of the required egress
capacity.
2. Each revolving door shall be credited with no
more than a 50-person capacity.
3. Each revolving door shall be capable of being
collapsed when a force of not more than 130
pounds (572) is applied within 3 inches (76
mm) of the outer edge of a wing.
1008.1.3.1.2 Other than egress component. A
revolving door used as other than a component of a
means of egress shall comply with Section
1008.1.3.1. The collapsing force of a revolving door
110
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
MEANS OF EGRESS
not used as a component of a means of egress shall not
be more than 180 pounds (801 N).
Exception: A collapsing force in excess of 180
pounds (801 N) is permitted if the collapsing force
is reduced to not more than 130 pounds (572)
when at least one of the following conditions is sat-
isfied:
1 . There is a power failure or power is removed
to the device holding the door wings in posi-
tion.
2. There is an actuation of the automatic sprin-
kler system where such system is provided.
3. There is an actuation of a smoke detection
system which is installed in accordance with
Section 907 to provide coverage in areas
within the building which are within 75 feet
(22 860 mm) of the revolving doors.
4. There is an actuation of a manual control
switch, in an approved location and clearly
defined, which reduces the holding force to
below the 130-pound (572) force level.
1008.1.3.2 Power-operated doors. Where means of
egress doors are operated by power, such as doors with a
photoelectric-actuated mechanism to open the door upon
the approach of a person, or doors with power-assisted
manual operation, the design shall be such that in the
event of power failure, the door is capable of being
opened manually to permit means of egress travel or
closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress.
The forces required to open these doors manually shall
not exceed those specified in Section 1008.1.2, except
that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50
pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of swinging
from any position to the full width of the opening in
which such door is installed when a force is applied to the
door on the side from which egress is made.
Full-power-operated doors shall comply with BHMA
A156.10. Power-assisted and low-energy doors shall
comply with BHMA A156.19.
Exceptions:
1. Occupancies in Group 1-3.
2. Horizontal sliding doors complying with Sec-
tion 1008.1.3.3.
3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout
mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf
opening shall be exempt from the minimum
32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of
Section 1008. 1 .1, provided a minimum 32-inch
(813 mm) clear opening is provided when the
two biparting leaves meeting in the center are
broken out.
1008.1.3.3 Horizontal sliding doors. In other than
Group H occupancies, horizontal sliding doors permitted
to be a component of a means of egress in accordance
with Exception 5 to Section 1008.1.2 shall comply with
all of the following criteria:
1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be
capable of being operated manually in the event of
power failure.
2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method
from both sides without special knowledge or
effort.
3. The force required to operate the door shall not
exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion
and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to
the minimum required width.
4. The door shall be openable with a force not to
exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250
pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the
door adjacent to the operating device.
5. The door assembly shall comply with the applica-
ble fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be
self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detec-
tion in accordance with Section 715.4.7.3 of the
International Building Code, shall be installed in
accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with
Section 715.
6. The door assembly shall have an integrated
standby power supply.
7. The door assembly power supply shall be electri-
cally supervised.
8. The door shall open to the minimum required
width within 10 seconds after activation of the
operating device.
1008.1.3.4 Access-controlled egress doors. The
entrance doors in a means of egress in buildings with an
occupancy in Group A, B, E, M, R-1 or R-2 and entrance
doors to tenant spaces in occupancies in Groups A, B, E,
M, R-1 and R-2 are permitted to be equipped with an
approved entrance and egress access control system
which shall be installed in accordance with all of the fol-
lowing criteria:
1. A sensor shall be provided on the egress side
arranged to detect an occupant approaching the
doors. The doors shall be arranged to unlock by a
signal from or loss of power to the sensor.
2. Loss of power to that part of the access control sys-
tem which locks the doors shall automatically
unlock the doors.
3. The doors shall be arranged to unlock from a man-
ual unlocking device located 40 inches to 48
inches (1016 mm to 1 2 1 9 mm) vertically above the
floor and within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the secured
doors. Ready access shall be provided to the man-
ual unlocking device and the device shall be
clearly identified by a sign that reads "PUSH TO
EXIT." When operated, the manual unlocking
device shall result in direct interruption of power
to the lock — independent of the access control sys-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
111
MEANS OF EGRESS
tern electronics — and the doors shall remain
unlocked for a minimum of 30 seconds.
4. Activation of the building fire alarm system, if
provided, shall automatically unlock the doors,
and the doors shall remain unlocked until the fire
alarm system has been reset.
5. Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or
fire detection system, if provided, shall automati-
cally unlock the doors. The doors shall remain
unlocked until the fire alarm system has been reset.
6. Entrance doors in buildings with an occupancy in
Group A, B, E or M shall not be secured from the
egress side during periods that the building is open
to the general public.
1008.1.3.5 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S,
horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permit-
ted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside
without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort
during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles
shall remain secured in the full-open position during the
period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or
more means of egress are required, not more than
one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be
equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security
grilles.
1008.1.4 Floor elevation. There shall be a floor or landing
on each side of a door. Such floor or landing shall be at the
same elevation on each side of the door. Landings shall be
level except for exterior landings, which are permitted to
have a slope not to exceed 0.25 unit vertical in 12 units hori-
zontal (2-percent slope).
Exceptions:
1 . Doors serving individual dwelling units in Groups
R-2 and R-3 where the following apply:
1 .1 . A door is permitted to open at the top step
of an interior flight of stairs, provided the
door does not swing over the top step.
1.2. Screen doors and storm doors are permit-
ted to swing over stairs or landings.
2. Exterior doors as provided for in Section 1003.5,
Exception 1, and Section 1018.2, which are not on
an accessible route.
3. In Group R-3 occupancies not required to be
Accessible units. Type A units or Type B units, the
landing at an exterior doorway shall not be more
than 7.75 inches (197 mm) below the top of the
threshold, provided the door, other than an exterior
storm or screen door, does not swing over the land-
ing.
4. Variations in elevation due to differences in finish
materials, but not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm).
5. Exterior decks, patios or balconies that are part of
Type B dwelling units, have impervious surfaces
and that are not more than 4 inches (102 mm)
below the finished floor level of the adjacent inte-
rior space of the dwelling unit.
1008.1.5 Landings at doors. Landings shall have a width
not less than the width of the stairway or the door, whichever
is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a
required dimension by more than 7 inches (178 mm). When
a landing serves an occupant load of 50 or more, doors in
any position shall not reduce the landing to less than
one-half its required width. Landings shall have a length
measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches
(1118 mm).
Exception: Landing length in the direction of travel in
Groups R-3 and U and within individual units of Group
R-2 need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm).
1008.1.6 Thresholds. Thresholds at doorways shall not
exceed 0.75 inch (19. 1 mm) in height for sliding doors serv-
ing dwelling units or 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) for other doors.
Raised thresholds and floor level changes greater than 0.25
inch (6.4 mm) at doorways shall be beveled with a slope not
greater than one unit vertical in two units horizontal
(50-percent slope).
Exception: The threshold height shall be limited to 7.75
inches (197 mm) where the occupancy is Group R-2 or
R-3; the door is an exterior door that is not a component
of the required means of egress; the door, other than an
exterior storm or screen door does not swing over the
landing or step; and the doorway is not on an accessible
route as required by Chapter 11 of the International
Building Code and is not part of an Accessible unit. Type
A unit or Type B unit.
1008.1.7 Door arrangement. Space between two doors in a
series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum plus the
width of a door swinging into the space. Doors in a series
shall swing either in the same direction or away from the
space between the doors.
Exceptions:
1 . The minimum distance between horizontal sliding
power-operated doors in a series shall be 48 inches
(1219 mm).
2. Storm and screen doors serving individual dwell-
ing units in Groups R-2 and R-3 need not be spaced
48 inches (1219 mm) from the other door.
3. Doors within individual dwelling units in Groups
R-2 and R-3 other than within Type A dwelling
units.
1008.1.8 Door operations. Except as specifically permitted
by this section egress doors shall be readily openable from
the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge
or effort.
1008.1.8.1 Hardware. Door handles, pulls, latches,
locks and other operating devices on doors required to be
accessible by Chapter 1 1 of the International Building
Code shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or
twisting of the wrist to operate.
112
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
MEANS OF EGRESS
1008.1.8.2 Hardware height. Door handles, pulls,
latches, locks and other operating devices shall be
installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches
(1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor. Locks
used only for security purposes and not used for normal
operation are permitted at any height.
Exception: Access doors or gates in barrier walls and
fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs shall be per-
mitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on
self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maxi-
mum above the finished floor or ground, provided the
self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices
operated by means of a key, electronic opener or inte-
gral combination lock.
1008.1.8.3 Locks and latches. Locks and latches shall
be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of
the following exists:
1 . Places of detention or restraint.
2. In buildings in occupancy Group A having an
occupant load of 300 or less. Groups B, F, M and S,
and in places of religious worship, the main exte-
rior door or doors are permitted to be equipped
with key-operated locking devices from the egress
side provided:
2.1. The locking device is readily distinguish-
able as locked,
2.2. A readily visible durable sign is posted on
the egress side on or adjacent to the door
stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN
UNLOCKED WHEN BUILDING IS
OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1
inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting back-
ground,
2.3. The use of the key-operated locking device
is revokable by the fire code official for
due cause.
3. Where egress doors are used in pairs, approved
automatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be used,
provided that the door leaf having the automatic
flush bolts has no doorknob or surface-mounted
hardware.
4. Doors from individual dwelling or sleeping units
of Group R occupancies having an occupant load
of 10 or less are permitted to be equipped with a
night latch, dead bolt or security chain, provided
such devices are openable from the inside without
the use of a key or tool.
1008.1.8.4 Bolt locks. Manually operated flush bolts or
surface bolts are not permitted.
Exceptions:
1 . On doors not required for egress in individual
dwelling units or sleeping units.
2. Where a pair of doors serves a storage or equip-
ment room, manually operated edge- or sur-
face-mounted bolts are permitted on the
inactive leaf.
1008.1.8.5 Unlatching. The unlatching of any door or I
leaf shall not require more than one operation. I
Exceptions:
1 . Places of detention or restraint.
2. Where manually operated bolt locks are permit-
ted by Section 1008.1.8.4.
3. Doors with automatic flush bolts as permitted
by Section 1008.1.8.3, Exception 3.
4. Doors from individual dwelling units and
sleeping units of Group R occupancies as per-
mitted by Section 1008.1.8.3, Exception 4.
1008.1.8.6 Delayed egress locks. Approved, listed,
delayed egress locks shall be permitted to be installed on
doors serving any occupancy except Group A, E and H
occupancies in buildings that are equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 or an approved automatic smoke or
heat detection system installed in accordance with Sec-
tion 907, provided that the doors unlock in accordance
with Items 1 through 6 below. A building occupant shall
not be required to pass through more than one door
equipped with a delayed egress lock before entering an
exit.
1. The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic
sprinkler system or automatic fire detection sys-
tem.
2. The doors unlock upon loss of power controlling
the lock or lock mechanism.
3. The door locks shall have the capability of being
unlocked by a signal from the fire command cen-
ter.
4. The initiation of an irreversible process which will
release the latch in not more than 15 seconds when
a force of not more than 15 pounds (67 N) is
applied for 1 second to the release device. Initia-
tion of the irreversible process shall activate an
audible signal in the vicinity of the door. Once the
door lock has been released by the application of
force to the releasing device, relocking shall be by
manual means only.
Exception: Where approved, a delay of not
more than 30 seconds is permitted.
5. A sign shall be provided on the door located above
and within 12 inches (305 mm) of the release
device reading: PUSH UNTIL ALARM
SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 [30]
SECONDS.
6. Emergency lighting shall be provided at the door.
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113
MEANS OF EGRESS
1008.1.8.7 Stairway doors. Interior stairway means of
egress doors shall be openable from both sides without
the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
Exceptions:
1. Stairway discharge doors shall be openable
from the egress side and shall only be locked
from the opposite side.
2. This section shall not apply to doors arranged in
accordance with Section 403. 12 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
3. In stairways serving not more than four stories,
doors are permitted to be locked from the side
opposite the egress side, provided they are
openable from the egress side and capable of
being unlocked simultaneously without
unlatching upon a signal from the fire com-
mand center, if present, or a signal by emer-
gency personnel from a single location inside
the main entrance to the building.
1008.1.9 Panic and fire exit hardware. Where panic and
fire exit hardware is installed, it shall comply with the fol-
lowing:
1. The actuating portion of the releasing device shall
extend at least one-half of the door leaf width.
2. The maximum unlatching force shall not exceed 15
pounds (67 N).
Each door in a means of egress from a Group A or E occu-
pancy having an occupant load of 50 or more and any Group
H occupancy shall not be provided with a latch or lock
unless it is panic hardware or fire exit hardware.
Exception: A main exit of a Group A occupancy in com-
phance with Section 1008.1.8.3, Item 2.
Electrical rooms with equipment rated 1,200 amperes or
more and over 6 feet (1829 mm) wide that contain
overcurrent devices, switching devices or control devices
with exit access doors must be equipped with panic hard-
ware and doors must swing in the direction of egress.
If balanced doors are used and panic hardware is
required, the panic hardware shall be the push-pad type and
the pad shall not extend more then one-half the width of the
door measured from the latch side.
1008.2 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall
comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a
component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable
requirements for doors.
Exception: Horizontal sliding or swinging gates exceeding
the 4-foot (1219 mm) maximum leaf width limitation are
permitted in fences and walls surrounding a stadium.
1008.2.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates
surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant
immediate supervision while the public is present, and
where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m^)
per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed
space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be
located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed
space. See Section 1024.6 for means of egress from safe dis-
persal areas.
1008.3 l\irnstiles. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict
travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any
required means of egress.
Exception: Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited
with no more than a 50-person capacity where all of the fol-
lowing provisions are met:
1. Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress
travel when primary power is lost, and upon the man-
ual release by an employee in the area.
2. Such devices are not given credit for more than 50
percent of the required egress capacity.
3. Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm)
high.
4. Each device has at least 16.5 inches (419 mm) clear
width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm)
and at least 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights
above 39 inches (991 mm).
Where located as part of an accessible route, turnstiles shall
have at least 36 inches (914 mm) clear at and below a height of
34 inches (864 mm), at least 32 inches (813 mm) clear width
between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) and
shall consist of a mechanism other than a revolving device.
1008.3.1 High turnstile. Turnstiles more than 39 inches
(991 mm) high shall meet the requirements for revolving
doors.
1008.3.2 Additional door. Where serving an occupant load
greater than 300, each turnstile that is not portable shall have
a side-hinged swinging door which conforms to Section
1008.1 within 50 feet (15 240 mm).
[BISECTION 1009
STAIRWAYS
1009.1 Stairway width. The width of stairways shall be deter-
mined as specified in Section 1005.1, but such width shall not
be less than 44 inches (1118 mm). See Section 1007.3 for
accessible means of egress stairways.
Exceptions:
1 . Stairways serving an occupant load of less than 50
shall have a width of not less than 36 inches (914
ram).
2. Spiral stairways as provided for in Section 1009.8.
3. Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025.
4. Where an incline platform lift or stairway chairlift is
installed on stairways serving occupancies in Group
R-3, or within dwelling units in occupancies in Group
R-2, a clear passage width not less than 20 inches (508
mm) shall be provided. If the seat and platform can be
folded when not in use, the distance shall be measured
from the folded position.
1009.2 Headroom. Stairways shall have a minimum head-
room clearance of 80 inches (2032 mm) measured vertically
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1
from a line connecting the edge of the nosings. Such headroom
shall be continuous above the stairway to the point where the
line intersects the landing below, one tread depth beyond the
bottom riser. The minimum clearance shall be maintained the
full width of the stairway and landing.
Exception: Spiral stairways complying with Section
1009.8 are permitted a 78-inch (1981 mm) headroom clear-
ance.
1009.3 Stair treads and risers. Stair riser heights shall be 7
inches (178 mm) maximum and 4 inches (102 mm) minimum.
Stair tread depths shall be 1 1 inches (279 mm) minimum. The
riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading
edges of adjacent treads. The tread depth shall be measured
horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projec-
tion of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading
edge. Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 1 1
inches (279 nun) measured at a right angle to the tread's lead-
ing edge at a point 12 inches (305 mm) from the side where the
treads are narrower and a minimum tread depth of 10 inches
(254 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . Alternating tread devices in accordance with Section
1009.9.
2. Spiral stairways in accordance with Section 1009.8.
3. Aisle stairs in assembly seating areas where the stair
pitch or slope is set, for sightline reasons, by the slope
of the adjacent seating area in accordance with Sec-
tion 1025.11.2.
4. In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in
Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies
that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or acces-
sory to individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occu-
pancies; the maximum riser height shall be 7.75
inches (197 mm); the minimum tread depth shall be
10 inches (254 mm); the minimum winder tread depth
at the walk line shall be 10 inches (254 mm); and the
minimum winder tread depth shall be 6 inches (152
mm). A nosing not less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) but
not more than 1 .25 inches (32 mm) shall be provided
on stairways with solid risers where the tread depth is
less than 11 inches (279 mm).
5. See Section 1027.10 for the replacement of existing
stairways.
1009.3.1 Winder treads. Winder treads are not permitted in
means of egress stairways except within a dwelling unit.
Exceptions:
1. Curved stairways in accordance with Section
1009.7.
2. Spiral stairways in accordance with Section
1009.8.
1009.3.2 Dimensional uniformity. Stair treads and risers
shall be of uniform size and shape. The tolerance between
the largest and smallest riser height or between the largest
and smallest tread depth shall not exceed 0.375 inch (9.5
mm) in any flight of stairs. The greatest winder tread depth
at the 12-inch (305 mm) walk line within any flight of stairs
shall not exceed the smallest by more than 0.375 inch (9.5
mm) measured at a right angle to the tread's leading edge.
Exceptions:
1 . Nonuniform riser dimensions of aisle stairs com-
plying with Section 1025.11.2.
2. Consistently shaped winders, complying with
Section 1009.3, differing from rectangular treads
in the same stairway flight.
Where the bottom or top riser adjoins a sloping public
way, walkway or driveway having an established grade and
serving as a landing, the bottom or top riser is permitted to
be reduced along the slope to less than 4 inches (102 mm) in
height, with the variation in height of the bottom or top riser
not to exceed one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal
(8-percent slope) of stairway width. The nosings or leading
edges of treads at such nonuniform height risers shall have a
distinctive marking stripe, different from any other nosing
marking provided on the stair flight. The distinctive mark-
ing stripe shall be visible in descent of the stair and shall
have a slip-resistant surface. Marking stripes shall have a
width of at least 1 inch (25 mm) but not more than 2 inches
(51 mm).
1009.3.3 Profile. The radius of curvature at the leading edge
of the tread shall be not greater than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm).
Beveling of nosings shall not exceed 0.5 inch (12.7 mm).
Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped from the under-
side of the leading edge of the tread above at an angle not
more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical. The lead-
ing edge (nosings) of treads shall project not more than 1 .25
inches (32 mm) beyond the tread below and all projections
of the leading edges shall be of uniform size, including the
leading edge of the floor at the top of a flight.
Exceptions:
1 . Solid risers are not required for stairways that are
not required to comply with Section 1007.3, pro-
vided that the opening between treads does not
permit the passage of a sphere with a diameter of 4
inches (102 mm).
2. Solid risers are not required for occupancies in
Group 1-3.
1009.4 Stairway landings. There shall be a floor or landing at
the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of landings
shall not be less than the width of stairways they serve. Every
landing shall have a minimum dimension measured in the
direction of travel equal to the width of the stairway. Such
dimension need not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm) where the
stairway has a straight run.
Exceptions:
1. Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025.
2. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the
landing to less than one-half the required width.
When fully open, the door shall not project more than
7 inches (178 mm) into a landing.
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1009.5 Stairway construction. All stairways shall be built of
materials consistent with the types permitted for the type of
construction of the building, except that wood handrails shall
be permitted for all types of construction.
1009.5.1 Stairway walking surface. The walking surface
of treads and landings of a stairway shall not be sloped
steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-per-
cent slope) in any direction. Stairway treads and landings
shall have a solid surface. Finish floor surfaces shall be
securely attached.
Exception: In Group F, H and S occupancies, other than
areas of parking structures accessible to the public, open-
ings in treads and landings shall not be prohibited pro-
vided a sphere with a diameter of 1.125 inches (29 mm)
cannot pass through the opening.
1009.5.2 Outdoor conditions. Outdoor stairways and out-
door approaches to stairways shall be designed so that water
will not accumulate on walking surfaces.
1009.5.3 Enclosures under stairways. The walls and soffits
within enclosed usable spaces under enclosed and unen-
closed stairways shall be protected by 1-hour fire-resis-
tance-rated construction or the fire-resistance rating of the
stairway enclosure, whichever is greater. Access to the
enclosed space shall not be directly from within the stair
enclosure.
Exception: Spaces under stairways serving and con-
tained within a single residential dwelling unit in Group
R-2 or R-3 shall be permitted to be protected on the
enclosed side with 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
There shall be no enclosed usable space under exterior
exit stairways unless the space is completely enclosed in
1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. The open space
under exterior stairways shall not be used for any purpose.
1009.6 Vertical rise. A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical
rise greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) between floor levels or
landings.
Exception: Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025.
1009.7 Curved stairways. Curved stairways with winder
treads shall have treads and risers in accordance with Section
1009.3 and the smallest radius shall not be less than twice the
required width of the stairway.
Exception: The radius restriction shall not apply to curved
stairways for occupancies in Group R-3 and within individ-
ual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2.
1009.8 Spiral stairways. Spiral stairways are permitted to be
used as a component in the means of egress only within dwell-
ing units or from a space not more than 250 square feet (23 m^)
in area and serving not more than five occupants, or from gal-
leries, catwalks and gridirons in accordance with Section
1015.6.
A spiral stairway shall have a 7.5 inch (191 mm) minimum
clear tread depth at a point 12 inches (305 mm) from the narrow
edge. The risers shall be sufficient to provide a headroom of 78
inches (1981 mm) minimum, but riser height shall not be more
than 9.5 inches (241 mm). The minimum stairway width shall
be 26 inches (660 mm).
1009.9 Alternating tread devices. Alternating tread devices
are limited to an element of a means of egress in buildings of
Groups F, H and S from a mezzanine not more than 250 square
feet (23 m^) in area and which serves not more than five occu-
pants; in buildings of Group 1-3 from a guard tower, observa-
tion station or control room not more than 250 square feet (23
m^) in area and for access to unoccupied roofs.
1009.9.1 Handrails of alternating tread devices. Hand-
rails shall be provided on both sides of alternating tread
devices and shall comply with Section 1012.
1009.9.2 Treads of alternating tread devices. Alternating
tread devices shall have a minimum projected tread of 5
inches (127 mm), a minimum tread depth of 8.5 inches (216
mm), a minimum tread width of 7 inches (178 mm) and a
maximum riser height of 9.5 inches (241 mm). The initial
tread of the device shall begin at the same elevation as the
platform, landing or floor surface.
Exception: Alternating tread devices used as an element
of a means of egress in buildings from a mezzanine area
not more than 250 square feet (23 m^) in area which
serves not more than five occupants shall have a mini-
mum projected tread of 8.5 inches (216 mm) with a mini-
mum tread depth of 10.5 inches (267 mm). The rise to the
next alternating tread surface should not be more than 8
inches (203 mm).
1009.10 Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails on each
side and shall comply with Section 1012. Where glass is used
to provide the handrail, the handrail shall also comply with
Section 2407 of the International Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025 provided
with a center handrail need not have additional hand-
rails.
2. Stairways within dwelling units, spiral stairways and
aisle stairs serving seating only on one side are per-
mitted to have a handrail on one side only.
3 . Decks, patios and walkways that have a single change
in elevation where the landing depth on each side of
the change of elevation is greater than what is
required for a landing do not require handrails.
4. In Group R-3 occupancies, a change in elevation con-
sisting of a single riser at an entrance or egress door
does not require handrails.
5. Changes in room elevations of only one riser within
dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 and
R-3 occupancies do not require handrails.
1009.11 Stairway to roof. In buildings located four or more
stories in height above grade plane, one stairway shall extend to I
the roof surface, unless the roof has a slope steeper than four
units vertical in 12 units horizontal (3 3 -percent slope). In
buildings without an occupied roof, access to the roof from the
top story shall be permitted to be by an alternating tread device.
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1009.11.1 Roof access. Where a stairway is provided to a
roof, access to the roof shall be provided through a pent-
house complying with Section 1509.2 of the International
Building Code.
Exception: In buildings without an occupied roof,
access to the roof shall be permitted to be a roof hatch or
trap door not less than 16 square feet (1 .5 m^) in area and
having a minimum dimension of 2 feet (610 mm).
1009.11.2 Protection at roof hatch openings. Where the
roof hatch opening providing the required access is located
within 10 feet (3049 mm) of the roof edge, such roof access
or roof edge shall be protected by guards installed in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section 1013.
[BISECTION 1010
RAMPS
1010.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to
ramps used as a component of a means of egress.
Exceptions:
1 . Other than ramps that are part of the accessible routes
providing access in accordance with Sections 1 108.2
through 1108.2.3 and 1108.2.5 of the International
Building Code, ramped aisles within assembly rooms
or spaces shall conform with the provisions in Section
1025.11.
2. Curb ramps shall comply with ICC Al 17.1.
3. Vehicle ramps in parking garages for pedestrian exit
access shall not be required to comply with Sections
1010.3 through 1010.9 when they are not an accessi-
ble route serving accessible parking spaces, other
required accessible elements or part of an accessible
means of egress.
1010.2 Slope. Ramps used as part of a means of egress shall
have a running slope not steeper than one unit vertical in 12
units horizontal (8-percent slope). The slope of other pedes-
trian ramps shall not be steeper than one unit vertical in eight
units horizontal (12.5-percent slope).
Exception: An aisle ramp slope in occupancies of Group A
shall comply with Section 1025.11.
1010.3 Cross slope. The slope measured perpendicular to the
direction of travel of a ramp shall not be steeper than one unit
vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
1010.4 Vertical rise. The rise for any ramp run shall be 30
inches (762 mm) maximum.
1010.5 Minimum dimensions. The minimum dimensions of
means of egress ramps shall comply with Sections 1010.5.1
through 1010.5.3.
1010.5.1 Width. The minimum width of a means of egress
ramp shall not be less than that required for corridors by
Section 1017.2. The clear width of a ramp and the clear
width between handrails, if provided, shall be 36 inches
(914 mm) minimum.
1010.5.2 Headroom. The minimum headroom in all parts
of the means of egress ramp shall not be less than 80 inches
(2032 mm).
1010.5.3 Restrictions. Means of egress ramps shall not
reduce in width in the direction of egress travel. Projections
into the required ramp and landing width are prohibited.
Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the clear
width to less than 42 inches (1067 mm).
1010.6 Landings. Ramps shall have landings at the bottom and
top of each ramp, points of turning, entrance, exits and at doors.
Landings shall comply with Sections 1010.6.1 through
1010.6.5.
1010.6.1 Slope. Landings shall have a slope not steeper than
one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in
any direction. Changes in level are not permitted.
1010.6.2 Width. The landing shall be at least as wide as the
widest ramp run adjoining the landing.
1010.6.3 Length. The landing length shall be 60 inches
(1525 mm) minimum.
Exceptions:
1. Landings in nonaccessible Group R-2 and R-3
individual dwelling units are permitted to be 36
inches (914 mm) minimum.
2. Where the ramp is not a part of an accessible route,
the length of the landing shall not be required to be
more than 48 inches (1220 mm) in the direction of
travel.
1010.6.4 Change in direction. Where changes in direction
of travel occur at landings provided between ramp runs, the
landing shall be 60 inches by 60 inches (1524 mm by 1524
mm) minimum.
Exception: Landings in nonaccessible Group R-2 and
R-3 individual dwelling units are permitted to be 36
inches by 36 inches (914 mm by 914 mm) minimum.
1010.6.5 Doorways. Where doorways are located adjacent
to a ramp landing, maneuvering clearances required by ICC
Al 17.1 are permitted to overlap the required landing area.
1010.7 Ramp construction. All ramps shall be built of materi-
als consistent with the types permitted for the type of construc-
tion of the building, except that wood handrails shall be
permitted for all types of construction. Ramps used as an exit
shall conform to the applicable requirements of Sections
1020.1 through 1020.1.3 for exit enclosures.
1010.7.1 Ramp surface. The surface of ramps shall be of
slip-resistant materials that are securely attached.
1010.7.2 Outdoor conditions. Outdoor ramps and outdoor
approaches to ramps shall be designed so that water will not
accumulate on walking surfaces.
1010.8 Handrails. Ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches
(152 mm) shall have handrails on both sides. Handrails shall
comply with Section 1012.
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1010.9 Edge protection. Edge protection complying with Sec-
tions 1010.9.1 or 1010.9.2 shall be provided on each side of
ramp runs and at each side of ramp landings.
Exceptions:
1 . Edge protection is not required on ramps that are not
required to have handrails, provided they have flared
sides that comply with the ICC A117.1 curb ramp
provisions.
2. Edge protection is not required on the sides of ramp
landings serving an adjoining ramp run or stairway.
3. Edge protection is not required on the sides of ramp
landings having a vertical dropoff of not more than
0.5 inch (12.7 mm) within 10 inches (254 mm) hori-
zontally of the required landing area.
1010.9.1 Curb, rail, wall or barrier. A curb, rail, wall or
barrier shall be provided that prevents the passage of a
4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere, where any portion of the
sphere is within 4 inches (102 mm) of the floor or ground
surface.
1010.9.2 Extended floor or ground surface. The floor or
ground surface of the ramp run or landing shall extend 12
inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a
handrail complying with Section 1012.
1010.10 Guards. Guards shall be provided where required by
Section 1013 and shall be constructed in accordance with Sec-
tion 1013.
[BISECTION 1011
EXIT SIGNS
1011.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be
marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direc-
tion of egress travel. Access to exits shall be marked by readily
visible exit signs in cases where the exit or the path of egress
travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Exit sign
placement shall be such that no point in a corridor is more than
100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance for the sign,
whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.
Exceptions:
1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that
require only one exit or exit access.
2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously
and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit
signs where approved by the fire code official.
3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U
and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in
Group R-l,R-2 or R-3.
4. Exit signs are not required in sleeping areas in occu-
pancies in Group 1-3.
5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are
not required on the seating side of vomitories or open-
ings into seating areas where exit signs are provided
in the concourse that are readily apparent from the
vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify
each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an
emergency.
1011.2 Illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or exter-
nally illuminated.
Exception: Tactile signs required by Section 1011.3 need
not be provided with illumination.
1011.3 Tactile exit signs. A tactile sign stating EXIT and com-
plying with ICC A117.1 shall be provided adjacent to each
door to an egress stairway, an exit passageway and the exit dis-
charge.
1011.4 Internally illuminated exit signs. Internally illumi-
nated exit signs shall be listed and labeled and shall be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and Section
2702 of the International Building Code. Exit signs shall be
illuminated at all times.
1011.5 Externally illuminated exit signs. Externally illumi-
nated exit signs shall comply with Sections 1011.5.1 through
1011.5.3.
1011.5.1 Graphics. Every exit sign and directional exit sign
shall have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152
mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less
than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word "EXIT" shall
have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (5 1 mm)
wide, except the letter "I," and the minimum spacing
between letters shall not be less than 0.375 inch (9.5 mm).
Signs larger than the minimum established in this section
shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to
their height.
The word "EXIT" shall be in high contrast with the back-
ground and shall be clearly discernible when the means of
exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron
directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign, the
construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron
directional indicator cannot be readily changed.
1011.5.2 Exit sign illumination. The face of an exit sign
illuminated from an external source shall have an intensity
of not less than 5 foot-candles (54 lux).
1011.5.3 Power source. Exit signs shall be illuminated at
all times. To ensure continued illumination for a duration of
not less than 90 minutes in case of primary power loss, the
sign illumination means shall be connected to an emergency
power system provided from storage batteries, unit equip-
ment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emer-
gency power system shall be in accordance with Section
2702 of the International Building Code.
Exception: Approved exit sign illumination means that
provide continuous illumination independent of external
power sources for a duration of not less than 90 minutes,
in case of primary power loss, are not required to be con-
nected to an emergency electrical system.
[BISECTION 1012
HANDRAILS
1012.1 Where required. Handrails for stairways and ramps
shall be adequate in strength and attachment in accordance
r
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE**
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with Section 1607.7 of the International Building Code. Hand-
rails required for stairways by Section 1009.10 shall comply
with Sections 1012.2 through 1012.8. Handrails required for
ramps by Section 1010.8 shall comply with Sections 1012.2
through 1012.7.
1012.2 Height. Handrail height, measured above stair tread
nosings, or finish surface of ramp slope shall be uniform, not
less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965
mm).
I 1012.3 Handrail graspability. Handrails with a circular
cross-section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1 .25
inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm) or shall
provide equivalent graspability. If the handrail is not circular, it
shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches (102 mm)
and not greater than 6.25 inches (160 mm) with a maximum
cross-section dimension of 2.25 inches (57 mm). Edges shall
have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
I 1012.4 Continuity. Handrail-gripping surfaces shall be con-
tinuous, without interruption by newel posts or other obstruc-
tions.
Exceptions:
1. Handrails within dwelling units are permitted to be
interrupted by a newel post at a stair landing.
2. Within a dwelling unit, the use of a volute, turnout or
starting easing is allowed on the lowest tread.
3. Handrail brackets or balusters attached to the bottom
surface of the handrail that do not project horizontally
beyond the sides of the handrail within 1.5 inches (38
mm) of the bottom of the handrail shall not be consid-
ered obstructions. For each 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) of
additional handrail perimeter dimension above 4
inches (102 mm), the vertical clearance dimension of
1.5 inches (38 mm) shall be permitted to be reduced
by 0.125 inch (3 mm).
1012.5 Handrail extensions. Handrails shall return to a wall,
guard or the walking surface or shall be continuous to the hand-
rail of an adjacent stair flight or ramp run. At stairways where
handrails are not continuous between flights, the handrails
shall extend horizontally at least 12 inches (305 mm) beyond
the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of one tread
beyond the bottom riser. At ramps where handrails are not con-
tinuous between runs, the handrail shall extend horizontally
above the landing 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the
top and bottom ramps.
Exceptions:
1 . Handrails within a dwelling unit that is not required to
be accessible need extend only from the top riser to
the bottom riser.
2. Aisle handrails in Group A occupancies in accor-
dance with Section 1025.13.
1012.6 Clearance. Clear space between a handrail and a wall
or other surface shall be a minimum of 1.5 inches (38 mm). A
handrail and a wall or other surface adjacent to the handrail
shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.
1012.7 Projections. On ramps, the clear width between hand-
rails shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum. Projections into
the required width of stairways and ramps at each handrail shall
not exceed 4.5 inches (114 mm) at or below the handrail height.
Projections into the required width shall not be limited above
the minimum headroom height required in Section 1009.2.
1012.8 Intermediate handrails. Stairways shall have
intermediate handrails located in such a manner so that all por-
tions of the stairway width required for egress capacity are
within 30 inches (762 mm) of a handrail. On monumental
stairs, handrails shall be located along the most direct path of
egress travel.
[BISECTION 1013
GUARDS
1013.1 Where required. Guards shall be located along
open-sided walking surfaces, mezzanines, industrial equip-
ment platforms, stairways, ramps and landings that are located
more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below.
Guards shall be adequate in strength and attachment in accor-
dance with Section 1607.7 of the International Building Code. I
Where glass is used to provide a guard or as a portion of the I
guard system, the guard shall also comply with Section 2407 of I
the International Building Code. Guards shall also be located
along glazed sides of stairways, ramps and landings that are
located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade
below where the glazing provided does not meet the strength
and attachment requirements in Section 1607.7 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
Exception: Guards are not required for the following loca-
tions:
1. On the loading side of loading docks or piers.
2. On the audience side of stages and raised platforms,
including steps leading up to the stage and raised plat-
forms.
3. On raised stage and platform floor areas, such as run-
ways, ramps and side stages used for entertainment or
presentations.
4. At vertical openings in the performance area of stages
and platforms.
5. At elevated walking surfaces appurtenant to stages
and platforms for access to and utilization of special
lighting or equipment.
6. Along vehicle service pits not accessible to the public.
7. In assembly seating where guards in accordance with
Section 1025.14 are permitted and provided.
1013.2 Height. Guards shall form a protective barrier not less
than 42 inches (1067 mm) high, measured vertically above the
leading edge of the tread, adjacent walking surface or adjacent
seatboard.
Exceptions:
1. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual I
dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards I
whose top rail also serves as a handrail shall have a
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height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more
than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from
the leading edge of the stair tread nosing.
2. The height in assembly seating areas shall be in accor-
dance with Section 1025.14.
1013.3 Opening limitations. Open guards shall have balusters
or ornamental patterns such that a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm)
sphere cannot pass through any opening up to a height of 34
inches (864 mm). From a height of 34 inches (864 mm) to 42
inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent walking surfaces, a
sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter shall not pass.
Exceptions:
1 . The triangular openings formed by the riser, tread and
bottom rail at the open side of a stairway shall be of a
maximum size such that a sphere of 6 inches (152
mm) in diameter cannot pass through the opening.
2. At elevated walking surfaces for access to and use of
electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or equip-
ment, guards shall have balusters or be of solid mate-
rials such that a sphere with a diameter of 21 inches
(533 mm) cannot pass through any opening.
3. In areas that are not open to the public within occu-
pancies in Group 1-3, F, H or S, balusters, horizontal
intermediate rails or other construction shall not per-
mit a sphere with a diameter of 21 inches (533 mm) to
pass through any opening.
4. In assembly seating areas, guards at the end of aisles
where they terminate at a fascia of boxes, balconies
and galleries shall have balusters or ornamental pat-
terns such that a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere
cannot pass through any opening up to a height of 26
inches (660 mm). From a height of 26 inches (660
mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent
walking surfaces, a sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in
diameter shall not pass.
5. Within individual dwelling units and sleeping units in
Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies, openings for
required guards on the sides of stair treads shall not
allow a sphere of 4.375 inches (111 mm) to pass
through.
1013.4 Screen porches. Porches and decks which are enclosed
with insect screening shall be provided with guards where the
walking surface is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above
the floor or grade below.
1013.5 Mechanical equipment. Guards shall be provided where
appUances, equipment, fans, roof hatch openings or other compo-
nents that require service are located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of
a roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or
open side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the
floor, roof or grade below. The guard shall be constructed so as to
prevent the passage of a 21-inch-diam.eter (533 mm) sphere. The
guard shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond each
end of such appUance, equipment, fan or component.
1013.6 Roof access. Guards shall be provided where the roof
hatch opening is located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a roof
edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open
side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor,
roof or grade below. The guard shall be constructed so as to pre-
vent the passage of a 21 -inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere.
[BISECTION 1014
EXIT ACCESS
1014.1 General. The exit access arrangement shall comply
with Sections 1014 through 1017 and the applicable provisions
of Sections 1003 through 1013.
1014.2 Egress through intervening spaces. Egress through
intervening spaces shall comply with this section.
1. Egress from a room or space shall not pass through
adjoining or intervening rooms or areas, except where
such adjoining rooms or areas are accessory to the area
served, are not a high-hazard occupancy and provide a
discernible path of egress travel to an exit.
Exception: Means of egress are not prohibited
through adjoining or intervening rooms or spaces in a
Group H, S or F occupancy when the adjoining or
intervening rooms or spaces are the same or a lesser
hazard occupancy group.
2. Egress shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms,
closets or spaces used for similar purposes.
Exceptions:
1 . Means of egress are not prohibited through a
kitchen area serving adjoining rooms constitut-
ing part of the same dwelling unit or sleeping
unit.
2. Means of egress are not prohibited through
stockrooms in Group M occupancies when all
of the following are met:
2.1. The stock is of the same hazard classifi-
cation as that found in the main retail
area;
2.2. Not more than 50 percent of the exit
access is through the stockroom;
2.3. The stockroom is not subject to locking
from the egress side; and
2.4. There is a demarcated, minimum
44-inch- wide (1118 mm) aisle defined
by full or partial height fixed walls or
similar construction that will maintain
the required width and lead directly
from the retail area to the exit without
obstructions.
3. An exit access shall not pass through a room
that can be locked to prevent egress.
4. Means of egress from dwelling units or sleep-
ing areas shall not lead through other sleeping
areas, toilet rooms or bathrooms.
1014.2.1 Multiple tenants. Where more than one tenant
occupies any one floor of a building or structure, each tenant
space, dwelling unit and sleeping unit shall be provided with
120
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
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access to the required exits without passing through adja-
cent tenant spaces, dwelling units and sleeping units.
Exception: Means of egress shall not be prohibited
through adjoining tenant space where such rooms or
spaces occupy less than 10 percent of the area of the ten-
ant space through which they pass; are the same or simi-
lar occupancy group; a discemable path of egress travel
to an exit is provided; and the means of egress into the
adjoining space is not subject to locking from the egress
side. A required means of egress serving the larger tenant
space shall not pass through the smaller tenant space or
spaces.
1014.2.2 Group 1-2. Habitable rooms or suites in Group 1-2
occupancies shall have an exit access door leading directly
to a corridor.
Exceptions:
1 . Rooms with exit doors opening directly to the out-
side at ground level.
2. Patient sleeping rooms are permitted to have one
intervening room if the intervening room is not
used as an exit access for more than eight patient
beds.
3. Special nursing suites are permitted to have one
intervening room where the arrangement allows
for direct and constant visual supervision by nurs-
ing personnel.
4. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms located
within a suite, exit access travel from within the
suite shall be permitted through one intervening
room where the travel distance to the exit access
door is not greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
5. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms
located within a suite, exit access travel from
within the suite shall be permitted through two
intervening rooms where the travel distance to the
exit access door is not greater than 50 feet (15 240
mm).
Suites of sleeping rooms shall not exceed 5,000 square
feet (465 m^). Suites of rooms other than patient sleeping
rooms shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m^). Any
patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient
sleeping rooms, of more than 1,000 square feet (93 m^) shall
have at least two exit access doors remotely located from
each other. Any room or suite of rooms other than patient
sleeping rooms of more than 2,500 square feet (232 m^)
shall have at least two access doors remotely located from
each other. The travel distance between any point in a Group
1-2 occupancy and an exit access door in the room shall not
exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). The travel distance between
any point in a suite of sleeping rooms and an exit access door
of that suite shall not exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm).
1014.3 Common path of egress travel. In occupancies other
than Groups H-1, H-2 and H-3, the common path of egress
travel shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm). In Group H-1, H-2
and H-3 occupancies, the common path of egress travel shall
not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm). For common path of egress
travel in Group A occupancies having fixed seating, see Sec-
tion 1025.8.
Exceptions:
1. The length of a common path of egress travel in
Group B, F and S occupancies shall not be more than
100 feet (30 480 mm), provided that the building is
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. Where a tenant space in Group B, S and U occupan-
cies has an occupant load of not more than 30, the
length of a common path of egress travel shall not be
more than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
3. The length of a common path of egress travel in a
Group 1-3 occupancy shall not be more than 100 feet
(30 480 mm).
4. The length of a common path of egress travel in a
Group R-2 occupancy shall not be more than 125 feet
(38 100 mm), provided that the building is protected
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
1014.4 Aisles. Aisles serving as a portion of the exit access in
the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements
of this section. Aisles shall be provided from all occupied por-
tions of the exit access which contain seats, tables, furnishings,
displays and similar fixtures or equipment. Aisles serving
assembly areas, other than seating at tables, shall comply with
Section 1025. Aisles serving reviewing stands, grandstands
and bleachers shall also comply with Section 1025.
The required width of aisles shall be unobstructed.
Exception: Doors, when fully opened, and handrails shall
not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178
mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required
width by more than one-half. Other nonstructural projec-
tions such as trim and similar decorative features are permit-
ted to project into the required width 1.5 inches (38 mm)
from each side.
1014.4.1 Aisles in Groups B and M. In Group B and M
occupancies, the minimum clear aisle width shall be deter-
mined by Section 1005.1 for the occupant load served, but
shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm).
Exception: Nonpublic aisles serving less than 50 people
and not required to be accessible by Chapter 1 1 of the
International Building Code need not exceed 28 inches
(711 mm) in width.
1014.4.2 Aisle accessways in Group M. An aisle
accessway shall be provided on at least one side of each ele-
ment within the merchandise pad. The minimum clear
width for an aisle accessway not required to be accessible
shall be 30 inches (762 mm). The required clear width of the
aisle accessway shall be measured perpendicular to the ele-
ments and merchandise within the merchandise pad. The
30-inch (762 mm) minimum clear width shall be maintained
to provide a path to an adjacent aisle or aisle accessway. The
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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common path of travel shall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm)
from any point in the merchandise pad.
Exception: For areas serving not more than 50 occu-
pants, the common path of travel shall not exceed 75 feet
(22 880 mm).
1014.4.3 Seating at tables. Where seating is located at a
table or counter and is adjacent to an aisle or aisle
accessway, the measurement of required clear width of the
aisle or aisle accessway shall be made to a line 19 inches
(483 mm) away from and parallel to the edge of the table or
counter. The 19-inch (483 mm) distance shall be measured
perpendicular to the side of the table or counter. In the case
of other side boundaries for aisle or aisle accessways, the
clear width shall be measured to walls, edges of seating and
tread edges, except that handrail projections are permitted.
Exception: Where tables or counters are served by fixed
seats, the width of the aisle accessway shall be measured
from the back of the seat.
1014.4.3.1 Aisle accessway for tables and seating.
Aisle accessways serving arrangements of seating at
tables or counters shall have sufficient clear width to con-
form to the capacity requirements of Section 1005.1 but
shall not have less than the appropriate minimum clear
width specified in Section 1014.4.3.2.
1014.4.3.2 Table and seating accessway width. Aisle
accessways shall provide a minimum of 12 inches (305
mm) of width plus 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) of width for each
additional 1 foot (305 mm), or fraction thereof, beyond
12 feet (3658 mm) of aisle accessway length measured
from the center of the seat farthest from an aisle.
Exception: Portions of an aisle accessway having a
length not exceeding 6 feet (1829 mm) and used by a
total of not more than four persons.
1014.4.3.3 Table and seating aisle accessway length.
The length of travel along the aisle accessway shall not
exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any seat to the point
where a person has a choice of two or more paths of
egress travel to separate exits.
1014.5 Egress balconies. Balconies used for egress purposes
shall conform to the same requirements as corridors for width,
headroom, dead ends and projections.
1014.5.1 Wall separation. Exterior egress balconies shall
be separated from the interior of the building by walls and
opening protectives as required for corridors.
Exception: Separation is not required where the exterior
egress balcony is served by at least two stairs and a
dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an
unprotected opening to reach a stair.
1014.5.2 Openness. The long side of an egress balcony
shall be at least 50 percent open, and the open area above the
guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumula-
tion of smoke or toxic gases.
[BISECTION 1015
EXIT AND EXIT ACCESS DOORWAYS
1015.1 Exit or exit access doorways required. Two exits or
exit access doorways from any space shall be provided where
one of the following conditions exists:
1. The occupant load of the space exceeds the values in
Table 1015.1.
2. The common path of egress travel exceeds the limita-
tions of Section 1014.3.
3. Where required by Sections 1015.3, 1015.4 and 1015.5.
Exception: Group 1-2 occupancies shall comply with Sec-
tion 1014.2.2.
TABLE 1015.1
SPACES WITH ONE MEANS OF EGRESS
OCCUPANCY
MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD
A, B, E\ F, M, U
49
H-1, H-2, H-3
3
H-4,H-5, 1-1,1-3, 1-4, R
10
S
29
a. Day care maximum occupant load is 10.
1015.1.1 Three or more exits. Access to three or more exits
shall be provided from a floor area where required by Sec-
tion 1019.1.
1015.2 Exit or exit access doorway arrangement. Required
exits shall be located in a manner that makes their availability
obvious. Exits shall be unobstructed at all times. Exit and exit
access doorways shall be arranged in accordance with Sections
1015.2.1 and 1015.2.2.
1015.2.1 Two exits or exit access doorways. Where two
exits or exit access doorways are required from any portion
of the exit access, the exit doors or exit access doorways
shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than
one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal
dimension of the building or area to be served measured in a
straight line between exit doors or exit access doorways.
Interlocking or scissor stairs shall be counted as one exit
stairway.
Exceptions:
1 . Where exit enclosures are provided as a portion
of the required exit and are interconnected by a
1-hour fire-resistance-rated corridor conform-
ing to the requirements of Section 1017, the
required exit separation shall be measured along
the shortest direct line of travel within the corri-
dor.
2. Where a building is equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the separation dis-
tance of the exit doors or exit access doorways
shall not be less than one-third of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the area
served.
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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•I
1015.2.2 Three or more exits or exit access doorways.
Where access to three or more exits is required, at least two
exit doors or exit access doorways shall be arranged in
accordance with the provisions of Section 1015.2.1.
1015.3 Boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms. Two exit
access doorways are required in boiler, incinerator and furnace
rooms where the area is over 500 square feet (46 m^) and any
fuel-fired equipment exceeds 400,000 British thermal units
(Btu) (422 000 KJ) input capacity. Where two exit access door-
ways are required, one is permitted to be a fixed ladder or an
alternating tread device. Exit access doorways shall be sepa-
rated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the room.
1015.4 Refrigeration machinery rooms. Machinery rooms
larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m^) shall have not less than
two exits or exit access doors. Where two exit access doorways
are required, one such doorway is permitted to be served by a
fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access door-
ways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to
one-half the maximum horizontal dimension of room.
All portions of machinery rooms shall be within 150 feet (45
720 mm) of an exit or exit access doorway. An increase in travel
distance is permitted in accordance with Section 1016.1.
Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel, regardless
of the occupant load served. Doors shall be tight fitting and
self-closing.
1015.5 Refrigerated rooms or spaces. Rooms or spaces hav-
ing a floor area of 1 ,000 square feet (93 m^) or more, containing
a refrigerant evaporator and maintained at a temperature below
68°F (20°C), shall have access to not less than two exits or exit
access doors.
Travel distance shall be determined as specified in Section
1016.1, but all portions of a refrigerated room or space shall be
within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exit or exit access door
where such rooms are not protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system. Egress is allowed through adjoining refriger-
ated rooms or spaces.
Exception: Where using refrigerants in quantities limited
to the amounts based on the volume set forth in the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
1015.6 Stage means of egress. Where two means of egress are
required, based on the stage size or occupant load, one means
of egress shall be provided on each side of the stage.
1015.6.1 Gallery, gridiron and catwalk means of egress.
The means of egress from lighting and access catwalks, gal-
leries and gridirons shall meet the requirements for occu-
pancies in Group F-2.
Exceptions:
1. A minimum width of 22 inches (559 mm) is per-
mitted for lighting and access catwalks.
2. Spiral stairs are permitted in the means of egress.
3. Stairways required by this subsection need not be
enclosed.
4. Stairways with a minimum width of 22 inches (559
mm), ladders, or spiral stairs are permitted in the
means of egress.
5 . A second means of egress is not required from these
areas where a means of escape to a floor or to a roof
is provided. Ladders, alternating tread devices or
spiral stairs are permitted in the means of escape.
6. Ladders are permitted in the means of egress.
[BISECTION 1016
EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE
1016.1 Travel distance limitations. Exits shall be so located
on each story such that the maximum length of exit access
travel, measured from the most remote point within a story to
the entrance to an exit along the natural and unobstructed path
of egress travel, shall not exceed the distances given in Table
1016.1.
Where the path of exit access includes unenclosed stairways
or ramps within the exit access or includes unenclosed exit
ramps or stairways as permitted in Section 1020. 1 , the distance
of travel on such means of egress components shall also be
included in the travel distance measurement. The measurement
along stairways shall be made on a plane parallel and tangent to
the stair tread nosings in the center of the stairway.
Exceptions:
1 . Travel distance in open parking garages is permitted
to be measured to the closest riser of open stairs.
2. In outdoor facihties with open exit access compo-
nents and open exterior stairs or ramps, travel dis-
tance is permitted to be measured to the closest riser
of a stair or the closest slope of the ramp.
3. Where an exit stair is permitted to be unenclosed in
accordance with Exception 8 or 9 of Section 1020.1,
the travel distance shall be measured from the most
remote point within a building to an exit discharge.
1016.2 Roof vent increase. In buildings that are one story in
height, equipped with automatic heat and smoke roof vents
complying with Section 910 and equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903 .3 . 1.1, the maximum exit access travel distance shall be 400
feet (122 m) for occupancies in Group F-1 or S-1.
1016.3 Exterior egress balcony increase. Travel distances
specified in Section 1016. 1 shall be increased up to an additional
100 feet (30 480 mm) provided the last portion of the exit access
leading to the exit occurs on an exterior egress balcony con-
structed in accordance with Section 1014.5. The length of such
balcony shall not be less than the amount of the increase taken.
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TABLE 1016.1
EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCE^
OCCUPANCY
WITHOUT SPRINKLER
SYSTEM
(feet)
WITH SPRINKLER
SYSTEM"
(feet)
A,E,F-1,I-1,M,
R,S-1
200
250
B
200
300
F-2, S-2, U
300
400
H-1
Not Permitted
75
H-2
Not Permitted
100
H-3
Not Permitted
150
H-4
Not Permitted
175
H-5
Not Permitted
200
1-2, 1-3, 1-4
150
200
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. See the following sections for modifications to exit access travel distance
requirements:
Section 402 of the International Building Code: For the distance limitation
in malls.
Section 404 of the International Building Code: For the distance limitation
through an atrium space.
Section 1016.2 For increased limitations in Groups F-1 and S-1.
Section 1025.7: For increased limitation in assembly seating.
Section 1025.7: For increased limitation for assembly open-air seating.
Section 1019.2: For buildings with one exit.
Chapter 3 1 of the International Building Code: For the limitation in tempo-
rary structures.
b. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903 .3 . 1 . 1 or 903 .3 . 1.2. See Section 903 for occupancies
where automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903 .3 . 1 .2 are
permitted.
[BISECTION 1017
CORRIDORS
1017.1 Construction. Corridors shall be fire-resistance rated
in accordance with Table 1017.1. The corridor walls required
to be fire-resistance rated shall comply with Section 708 of the
International Building Code for fire partitions.
Exceptions:
1.
A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in
an occupancy in Group E where each room that is used
for instruction has at least one door directly to the exte-
rior and rooms for assembly purposes have at least
one-half of the required means of egress doors opening
directly to the exterior. Exterior doors specified in this
exception are required to be at ground level.
2. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors
contained within a dwelling or sleeping unit in an
occupancy in Group R.
3. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in
open parking garages.
4. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in
an occupancy in Group B which is a space requiring
only a single means of egress complying with Section
1015.1.
1017.2 Corridor width. The minimum corridor width shall be
as determined in Section 1005.1, but not less than 44 inches
(1118 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . Twenty-four inches (610 mm) — For access to and uti-
lization of electrical, mechanical or plumbing sys-
tems or equipment.
2. Thirty-six inches (914 nmi) — With a required occu-
pant capacity of less than 50.
3. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) — Within a dwelling unit.
4. Seventy-two inches (1829 mm) — In Group E with a
corridor having a required capacity of 100 or more.
5. Seventy-two inches (1829 mm) — In corridors serv-
ing surgical Group I, health care centers for ambula-
tory patients receiving outpatient medical care, which
causes the patient to be not capable of self-preserva-
tion.
6. Ninety-six inches (2438 mm) — In Group 1-2 in areas
where required for bed movement.
1017.3 Dead ends. Where more than one exit or exit access
doorway is required, the exit access shall be arranged such that
there are no dead ends in corridors more than 20 feet (6096
mm) in length.
Exceptions:
1 . In occupancies in Group 1-3 of Occupancy Condition
2, 3 or 4 (see Section 202), the dead end in a corridor
shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
TABLE 1017.1
CORRIDOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING
OCCUPANCY
OCCUPANT LOAD SERVED BY CORRIDOR
REQUIRED FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours)
Without sprinkler system
With sprinkler system"^
H-1, H-2, H-3
All
Not Permitted
1
H-4, H-5
Greater than 30
Not Permitted
1
A, B, E, F, M, S, U
Greater than 30
1
R
Greater than 10
Not Permitted
0.5
I-2^ 1-4
All
Not Permitted
I-l, 1-3
All
Not Permitted
I''
a. For requirements for occupancies in Group 1-2, see Section 407.3 of the International Building Code.
b. For a reduction in the fire-resistance rating for occupancies in Group 1-3, see Section 408.7 of the International Building Code.
c. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 where allowed.
124
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2. In occupancies in Groups B and F where the building
is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the
length of dead-end corridors shall not exceed 50 feet
(15 240 mm).
3. A dead-end corridor shall not be limited in length
where the length of the dead-end corridor is less than
2.5 times the least width of the dead-end corridor.
1017.4 Air movement in corridors. Corridors shall not serve
as supply, return, exhaust, relief or ventilation air ducts.
Exceptions:
1 . Use of a corridor as a source of makeup air for exhaust
systems in rooms that open directly onto such corri-
dors, including toilet rooms, bathrooms, dressing
rooms, smoking lounges and janitor closets, shall be
permitted, provided that each such corridor is directly
supplied with outdoor air at a rate greater than the rate
of makeup air taken from the corridor.
2. Where located within a dwelling unit, the use of corri-
dors for conveying return air shall not be prohibited.
3. Where located within tenant spaces of 1,000 square
feet (93 m^) or less in area, utilization of corridors for
conveying return air is permitted.
1017.4.1 Corridor ceiling. Use of the space between the
corridor ceiling and the floor or roof structure above as a
return air plenum is permitted for one or more of the follow-
ing conditions:
1. The corridor is not required to be of fire-resis-
tance-rated construction;
2. The corridor is separated from the plenum by
fire-resistance-rated construction;
3. The air-handling system serving the corridor is shut
down upon activation of the air-handling unit smoke
detectors required by the International Mechanical
Code.
4. The air-handling system serving the corridor is shut
down upon detection of sprinkler waterflow where
the building is equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system; or
5. The space between the corridor ceiling and the floor or
roof structure above the corridor is used as a compo-
nent of an approved engineered smoke control system.
1017.5 Corridor continuity. Fire-resistance-rated corridors
shall be continuous from the point of entry to an exit, and shall
not be interrupted by intervening rooms.
Exception: Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed
as required for corridors shall not be construed as interven-
ing rooms.
[BISECTION 1018
EXITS
1018.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 101 8
through 1023 and the applicable requirements of Section 1003
through 1013. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that
interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given
level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection
shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge.
1018.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for
human occupancy shall have at least one exterior door that
meets the requirements of Section 1008.1.1.
1018.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall
comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1 008 . 1 .
1018.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead
directly to the exit discharge or the public way.
[BISECTION 1019
NUMBER OF EXITS AND CONTINUITY
1019.1 Minimum number of exits. All rooms and spaces
within each story shall be provided with and have access to the
minimum number of approved independent exits required by
Table 1019.1 based on the occupant load of the story, except as
modified in Section 1015.1 or 1019.2. For the purposes of this
chapter, occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required
for stories. The required number of exits from any story, base-
ment or individual space shall be maintained until arrival at
grade or the public way.
TABLE 1019.1
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS FOR OCCUPANT LOAD
OCCUPANT LOAD
(persons per story)
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS
(per story)
1-500
2
501-1,000
3
More than 1,000
4
1019.1.1 Parking structures. Parking structures shall not
have less than two exits from each parking tier, except that
only one exit is required where vehicles are mechanically
parked. Vehicle ramps shall not be considered as required
exits unless pedestrian facilities are provided.
1019.1.2 Helistops. The means of egress from helistops
shall comply with the provisions of this chapter, provided
that landing areas located on buildings or structures shall
have two or more exits. For landing platforms or roof areas
less than 60 feet (18 288 mm) long, or less than 2,000 square
feet (186 m^) in area, the second means of egress is permit-
ted to be a fire escape or ladder leading to the floor below.
1019.2 Buildings with one exit. Only one exit shall be
required in buildings as described below:
1. Buildings described in Table 1019.2, provided that the
building has not more than one level below the first story
above grade plane.
2. Buildings of Group R-3 occupancy.
3. Single-level buildings with the occupied space at the
level of exit discharge provided that the story or space
complies with Section 1015.1 as a space with one means
of egress.
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TABLE 1019.2
BUILDINGS WITH ONE EXIT
OCCUPANCY
MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF
BUILDING ABOVE
GRADE PLANE
MAXIMUM OCCUPANTS
(OR DWELLING UNITS) PER
FLOOR AND
TRAVEL DISTANCE
A, B'', E^ F, M, U
1 Story
49 occupants and 75 feet
travel distance
H-2, H-3
1 Story
3 occupants and 25 feet
travel distance
H-4, H-5, 1, R
1 Story
10 occupants and 75 feet
travel distance
S^
1 Story
29 occupants and 100
feet travel distance
B^ F, M, S^
2 Stories
30 occupants and 75 feet
travel distance
R-2
2 Stories'^
4 dwelling units and 50
feet travel distance
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. For the required number of exits for open parking structures, see Section
1019.1.1.
b. For the required number of exits for air traffic control towers, see Section 412.1
of the International Building Code.
c. Buildings classified as Group R-2 equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and pro-
vided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Sec-
tion 1026 shall have a maximum height of three stories above grade plane.
d. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1 with an occupancy in Group B shall have a
maximum travel distance of 100 feet.
e. Day care maximum occupant load is 10.
1019.3 Exit continuity. Exits shall be continuous from the
point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.
1019.4 Exit door arrangement. Exit door arrangement shall
meet the requirements of Sections 1015.2 through 1015.2.2.
[BISECTION 1020
VERTICAL EXIT ENCLOSURES
1020.1 Enclosures required. Interior exit stairways and inte-
rior exit ramps shall be enclosed with fire barriers constructed
in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building
Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with
Section 7 11 of the International Building Code, or both. Exit
enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
hours where connecting four stories or more and not less than 1
hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of
stories connected by the exit enclosure shall include any base-
ments but not any mezzanines. An exit enclosure shall not be
used for any purpose other than means of egress.
Exceptions:
1 . In all occupancies, other than Group H and I occupan-
cies, a stairway is not required to be enclosed when
the stairway serves an occupant load of less than 10
and the stairway complies with either Item 1 . 1 or 1 .2.
In all cases, the maximum number of connecting open
stories shall not exceed two.
1.1. The stairway is open to not more than one
story above the story at the level of exit dis-
charge, or
1.2. The stairway is open to not more than one
story below the story at the level of exit dis-
charge.
2. Exits in buildings of Group A-5 where all portions of
the means of egress are essentially open to the outside
need not be enclosed.
3. Stairways serving and contained within a single resi-
dential dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1,
R-2 or R-3 occupancies are not required to be
enclosed.
4. Stairways that are not a required means of egress ele-
ment are not required to be enclosed where such stair-
ways comply with Section 707.2 of the International
Building Code.
5. Stairways in open parking structures that serve only
the parking structure are not required to be enclosed.
6. Stairways in Group 1-3 occupancies, as provided for
in Section 408.3.6 of the International Building Code,
are not required to be enclosed.
7. Means of egress stairways as required by Section
410.5.3 of the International Building Code are not
required to be enclosed.
8. In other than Group H and I occupancies, a maximum
of 50 percent of egress stairways serving one adjacent
floor are not required to be enclosed, provided at least
two means of egress are provided from both floors
served by the unenclosed stairways. Any two such
interconnected floors shall not be open to other floors.
Unenclosed exit stairways shall be remotely located
as required in Section 1015.2.
9. In other than Group H and I occupancies, interior
egress stairways serving only the first and second sto-
ries of a building equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3. 1 . 1 are not required to be enclosed, provided at
least two means of egress are provided from both
floors served by the unenclosed stairways. Such inter-
connected stories shall not be open to other stories.
Unenclosed exit stairways shall be remotely located
as required in Section 1015.2.
1020.1.1 Openings and penetrations. Exit enclosure
opening protectives shall be in accordance with the require-
ments of Section 715 of the International Building Code.
Except as permitted in Section 402.4.6 of the Interna-
tional Building Code, openings in exit enclosures other than
unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those nec-
essary for exit access to the enclosure from normally occu-
pied spaces and for egress from the enclosure.
Where interior exit enclosures are extended to the exte-
rior of a building by an exit passageway, the door assembly
from the exit enclosure to the exit passageway shall be pro-
tected by a fire door assembly conforming to the require-
ments in Section 715.4 of the International Building Code.
126
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
MEANS OF EGRESS
Fire door assemblies in exit enclosures shall comply with
Section 715.4.4 of the International Building Code.
Elevators shall not open into an exit enclosure.
1020.1.2 Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings
through an exit enclosure are prohibited except for required
exit doors, equipment and ductwork necessary for inde-
pendent pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, elec-
trical raceway for fire department communication systems
and electrical raceway serving the exit enclosure and termi-
nating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010
m^). Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with
Section 712 of the International Building Code. There shall
be no penetrations or communication openings, whether
protected or not, between adjacent exit enclosures.
1020.1.3 Ventilation. Equipment and ductwork for exit
enclosure ventilation as permitted by Section 1020. 1 .2 shall
comply with one of the following items:
1. Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exte-
rior to the building and shall be directly connected to
the exit enclosure by ductwork enclosed in construc-
tion as required for shafts.
2. Where such equipment and ductwork is located
within the exit enclosure, the intake air shall be taken
directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be
discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall
be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction
as required for shafts.
3. Where located within the building, such equipment
and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder
of the building, including other mechanical equip-
ment, with construction as required for shafts.
In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated con-
struction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance
and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives
in accordance with Section 715 of the International Build-
ing Code for shaft enclosures.
Exit enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent
of other building ventilation systems.
1020.1.4 Exit enclosure exterior walls. Exterior walls of an
exit enclosure shall comply with the requirements of Section
704 of the International Building Code for exterior walls.
Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the
exterior of the stairway and the walls or openings are exposed
by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180
degrees (3.14 rad), the building exterior walls within 10 feet
(3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected
opening shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1
hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected
by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not
less than ^/^ hour. This construction shall extend vertically
from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the top-
most landing of the stairway or to the roof hne, whichever is
lower.
1020.1.5 Discharge identification barrier. A stairway in
an exit enclosure shall not continue below the level of exit
discharge unless an approved barrier is provided at the level
of exit discharge to prevent persons from unintentionally
continuing into levels below. Directional exit signs shall be
provided as specified in Section 1011.
1020.1.6 Stairway floor number signs. A sign shall be
provided at each floor landing in interior exit enclosures
connecting more than three stories designating the floor
level, the terminus of the top and bottom of the stair enclo-
sure and the identification of the stair. The signage shall also
state the story of, and the direction to the exit discharge and
the availability of roof access from the stairway for the fire
department. The sign shall be located 5 feet (1524 mm)
above the floor landing in a position that is readily visible
when the doors are in the open and closed positions.
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to
comply with Section 403 or 405 of thQ International Building
Code, each of the exits of a building that serves stories where
the floor surface is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm)
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access or
more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the level of exit dis-
charge serving such floor levels shall be a smokeproof
enclosure or pressurized stairway in accordance with Sec-
tion 909.20.
1020.1.7.1 Enclosure exit. A smokeproof enclosure or
pressurized stairway shall exit into a public way or into
an exit passageway, yard or open space having direct
access to a public way. The exit passageway shall be
without other openings and shall be separated from the
remainder of the building by 2-hour fire-resistance-rated
construction.
Exceptions:
1. Openings in the exit passageway serving a
smokeproof enclosure are permitted where the
exit passageway is protected and pressurized in
the same manner as the smokeproof enclosure,
and openings are protected as required for
access from other floors.
2. Openings in the exit passageway serving a pres-
surized stairway are permitted where the exit
passageway is protected and pressurized in the
same manner as the pressurized stairway.
3. A smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stair-
way shall be permitted to egress through areas
on the level of discharge or vestibules as per-
mitted by Section 1024.
1020.1.7.2 Enclosure access. Access to the stairway
within a smokeproof enclosure shall be by way of a vesti-
bule or an open exterior balcony.
Exception: Access is not required by way of a vesti-
bule or exterior balcony for stairways using the pres-
surization alternative complying with Section
909.20.5.
[BISECTION 1021
EXIT PASSAGEWAYS
1021.1 Exit passageway. Exit passageways serving as an exit
component in a means of egress system shall comply with the
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
127
MEANS OF EGRESS
requirements of this section. An exit passageway shall not be
used for any purpose other than as a means of egress.
1021.2 Width. The width of exit passageways shall be deter-
mined as specified in Section 1005.1 but such width shall not
be less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except that exit passageways
serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall not be less than
36 inches (914 mm) in width.
The required width of exit passageways shall be unob-
structed.
Exception: Doors, when fully opened, and handrails, shall
not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178
mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required
width by more than one-half. Other nonstructural projec-
tions such as trim and similar decorative features are permit-
ted to project into the required width 1 .5 inches (38 mm) on
each side.
1021.3 Construction. Exit passageway enclosures shall have
walls, floors and ceilings of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance
rating, and not less than that required for any connecting exit
enclosure. Exit passageways shall be constructed as fire barri-
ers in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building
Code.
1021.4 Openings and penetrations. Exit passageway opening
protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of
Section 715 of the International Building Code.
Except as permitted in Section 402.4.6 of the International
Building Code, openings in exit passageways other than unex-
posed exterior openings shall be limited to those necessary for
exit access to the exit passageway from normally occupied
spaces and for egress from the exit passageway.
Where interior exit enclosures are extended to the exterior of a
building by an exit passageway, the door assembly from the exit
enclosure to the exit passageway shall be protected by a fire door
conforming to the requirements in Section 715.4 of the Interna-
tional Building Code. Fire door assemblies in exit passageways
shall comply with Section 715.4.4 of the International Building
Code.
Elevators shall not open into an exit passageway.
1021.5 Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings through
an exit passageway are prohibited except for required exit
doors, equipment and ductwork necessary for independent
pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway
for fire department communication and electrical raceway
serving the exit passageway and terminating at a steel box not
exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m^). Such penetrations shall
be protected in accordance with Section 712 of the Interna-
tional Building Code. There shall be no penetrations or commu-
nicating openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent
exit passageways.
[BISECTION 1022
HORIZONTAL EXITS
1022.1 Horizontal exits. Horizontal exits serving as an exit in
a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of
this section. A horizontal exit shall not serve as the only exit
from a portion of a building, and where two or more exits are
required, not more than one-half of the total number of exits or
total exit width shall be horizontal exits.
Exceptions:
1 . Horizontal exits are permitted to comprise two-thirds
of the required exits from any building or floor area
for occupancies in Group 1-2.
2. Horizontal exits are permitted to comprise 100 per-
cent of the exits required for occupancies in Group
1-3. At least 6 square feet (0.6 m^) of accessible space
per occupant shall be provided on each side of the hor-
izontal exit for the total number of people in adjoining
compartments.
Every fire compartment for which credit is allowed in con-
nection with a horizontal exit shall not be required to have a
stairway or door leading directly outside, provided the adjoin-
ing fire compartments have stairways or doors leading directly
outside and are so arranged that egress shall not require the
occupants to return through the compartment from which
egress originates.
The area into which a horizontal exit leads shall be provided
with exits adequate to meet the occupant requirements of this
chapter, but not including the added occupant capacity
imposed by persons entering it through horizontal exits from
another area. At least one of its exits shall lead directly to the
exterior or to an exit enclosure.
1022.2 Separation. The separation between buildings or ref-
uge areas connected by a horizontal exit shall be provided by a
fire wall complying with Section 705 of the International Build-
ing Code or a fire barrier complying with Section 706 of the
International Building Code and having a fire-resistance rating
of not less than 2 hours. Opening protectives in horizontal exit
walls shall also comply with Section 715 of the International
Building Code. The horizontal exit separation shall extend ver-
tically through all levels of the building unless floor assemblies I
have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours with no I
unprotected openings.
Exception: A fire-resistance rating is not required at hori-
zontal exits between a building area and an above-grade
pedestrian walkway constructed in accordance with Section
3104 of the International Building Code, provided that the
distance between connected buildings is more than 20 feet
(6096 mm).
Horizontal exit walls constructed as fire barriers shall be
continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall so as to divide
completely the floor served by the horizontal exit.
1022.3 Opening protectives. Fire doors in horizontal exits
shall be self-closing or automatic-closing when activated by a
smoke detector in accordance with Section 715.4.7.3 of the I
International Building Code. Doors, where located in a
cross-corridor condition, shall be automatic-closing by activa-
tion of a smoke detector installed in accordance with Section
715.4.7.3 of the International Building Code.
1022.4 Capacity of refuge area. The refuge area of a horizon- |(
tal exit shall be a space occupied by the same tenant or a public I
area and each such refuge area shall be adequate to accommo-
date the original occupant load of the refuge area plus the occu-
128
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
MEANS OF EGRESS
pant load anticipated from the adjoining compartment. The
anticipated occupant load from the adjoining compartment
shall be based on the capacity of the horizontal exit doors enter-
ing the refuge area. The capacity of the refuge area shall be
computed based on a net floor area allowance of 3 square feet
(0.2787 m^) for each occupant to be accommodated therein.
Exception: The net floor area allowable per occupant shall
be as follows for the indicated occupancies:
1 . Six square feet (0.6 m^) per occupant for occupancies
in Group 1-3.
2. Fifteen square feet (1 .4 m^) per occupant for ambula-
tory occupancies in Group 1-2.
3. Thirty square feet (2.8 m^) per occupant for
nonambulatory occupancies in Group 1-2.
[BISECTION 1023
EXTERIOR EXIT RAMPS AND STAIRWAYS
1023.1 Exterior exit ramps and stairways. Exterior exit
ramps and stairways serving as an element of a required means
of egress shall comply with this section.
Exception: Exterior exit ramps and stairways for outdoor
stadiums complying with Section 1019.1, Exception 2.
1023.2 Use in a means of egress. Exterior exit ramps and stair-
ways shall not be used as an element of a required means of
egress for Group 1-2 occupancies. For occupancies in other
than Group 1-2, exterior exit ramps and stairways shall be per-
mitted as an element of a required means of egress for buildings
not exceeding six stories above grade plane or having occupied
floors more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of
fire department vehicle access.
1023.3 Open side. Exterior exit ramps and stairways serving as
an element of a required means of egress shall be open on at
least one side. An open side shall have a minimum of 35 square
feet (3.3 m^) of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor level
and the level of each intermediate landing. The required open
area shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above
the adjacent floor or landing level.
1023.4 Side yards. The open areas adjoining exterior exit
ramps or stairways shall be either yards, courts or public ways;
the remaining sides are permitted to be enclosed by the exterior
walls of the building.
1023.5 Location. Exterior exit ramps and stairways shall be
located in accordance with Section 1023.3.
1023.6 Exterior ramps and stairway protection. Exterior
exit ramps and stairways shall be separated from the interior of
the building as required in Section 1020.1. Openings shall be
limited to those necessary for egress from normally occupied
spaces.
Exceptions:
1. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for occupancies, other than those in Group
R- 1 or R-2, in buildings that are no more than two sto-
ries above grade plane where the level of exit dis-
charge is the first story above grade plane.
2. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required where the exterior ramp or stairway is served
by an exterior ramp and/or balcony that connects two
remote exterior stairways or other approved exits
with a perimeter that is not less than 50 percent open.
To be considered open, the opening shall be a mini-
mum of 50 percent of the height of the enclosing wall,
with the top of the openings no less than 7 feet (2134
mm) above the top of the balcony.
3. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for an exterior ramp or stairway located in a
building or structure that is permitted to have unen-
closed interior stairways in accordance with Section
1020.1.
4. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for exterior ramps or stairways connected to
open-ended corridors, provided that Items 4.1
through 4.4 are met:
4.1. The building, including corridors and ramps
and/or stairs, shall be equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
4.2. The open-ended corridors comply with Sec-
tion 1017.
4.3. The open-ended corridors are connected on
each end to an exterior exit ramp or stairway
complying with Section 1023.
4.4. At any location in an open-ended corridor
where a change of direction exceeding 45 de-
grees (0.79 rad) occurs, a clear opening of not
less than 35 square feet (3.3 m^) or an exterior
ramp or stairway shall be provided. Where
clear openings are provided, they shall be lo-
cated so as to minimize the accumulation of
smoke or toxic gases.
[BISECTION 1024
EXIT DISCHARGE
1024.1 General. Exits shall discharge directly to the exterior of
the building. The exit discharge shall be at grade or shall pro-
vide direct access to grade. The exit discharge shall not reenter
a building.
Exceptions:
1 . A maximum of 50 percent of the number and capacity
of the exit enclosures is permitted to egress through
areas on the level of discharge provided all of the fol-
lowing are met:
1.1. Such exit enclosures egress to a free and un-
obstructed way to the exterior of the building,
which way is readily visible and identifiable
from the point of termination of the exit enclo-
sure.
1 .2. The entire area of the level of discharge is sep-
arated from areas below by construction con-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
129
MEANS OF EGRESS
forming to the fire-resistance rating for the
exit enclosure.
1.3. The egress path from the exit enclosure on the
level of discharge is protected throughout by
an approved automatic sprinkler system. All
portions of the level of discharge with access
to the egress path shall either be protected
throughout with an automatic sprinkler sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, or separated from the
egress path in accordance with the require-
ments for the enclosure of exits.
2. A maximum of 50 percent of the number and capacity
of the exit enclosures is permitted to egress through a
vestibule provided all of the following are met:
2.1. The entire area of the vestibule is separated
from areas below by construction conforming
to the fire-resistance rating for the exit enclo-
sure.
2.2. The depth from the exterior of the building is
not greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) and the
length is not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm).
2.3. The area is separated from the remainder of
the level of exit discharge by construction
providing protection at least the equivalent of
approved wired glass in steel frames.
2.4. The area is used only for means of egress and
exits directly to the outside.
3. Stairways in open parking garages complying with
Section 1020.1, Exception 5, are permitted to egress
through the open parking garage at the level of exit
discharge.
1024.2 Exit discharge capacity. The capacity of the exit dis-
charge shall be not less than the required discharge capacity of
the exits being served.
1024.3 Exit discharge location. Exterior balconies, stairways
and ramps shall be located at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from
adjacent lot lines and from other buildings on the same lot
unless the adjacent building exterior walls and openings are
protected in accordance with Section 704 of the International
Building Code based on fire separation distance.
1024.4 Exit discharge components. Exit discharge compo-
nents shall be sufficiently open to the exterior so as to minimize
the accumulation of smoke and toxic gases.
1024.5 Egress courts. Egress courts serving as a portion of the
exit discharge in the means of egress system shall comply with
the requirements of Section 1024.
1024.5.1 Width. The width of egress courts shall be deter-
mined as specified in Section 1005.1, but such width shall
not be less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except as specified
herein. Egress courts serving Group R-3 and U occupancies
shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width.
The required width of egress courts shall be unobstructed
to a height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
Exception: Doors, when fully opened, and handrails
shall not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches
(178 mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the
required width by more than one-half. Other
nonstructural projections such as trim and similar deco-
rative features are permitted to project into the required
width 1.5 inches (38 mm) from each side.
Where an egress court exceeds the minimum required
width and the width of such egress court is then reduced
along the path of exit travel, the reduction in width shall be
gradual. The transition in width shall be affected by a guard
not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and shall not cre-
ate an angle of more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) with respect
to the axis of the egress court along the path of egress travel.
In no case shall the width of the egress court be less than the
required minimum.
1024.5.2 Construction and openings. Where an egress
court serving a building or portion thereof is less than 10
feet (3048 mm) in width, the egress court walls shall have
not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a
distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor of the court.
Openings within such walls shall be protected by opening
protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than V4
hour.
Exceptions:
1 . Egress courts serving an occupant load of less than
10.
2. Egress courts serving Group R-3 . |
1024.6 Access to a public way. The exit discharge shall pro-
vide a direct and unobstructed access to a public way.
Exception: Where access to a pubhc way cannot be pro-
vided, a safe dispersal area shall be provided where all of the
following are met:
1 . The area shall be of a size to accommodate at least
5 square feet (0.28 m^) for each person.
2. The area shall be located on the same lot at least 50 I
feet (15 240 mm) away from the building requiring I
egress. '
3. The area shall be permanently maintained and
identified as a safe dispersal area.
4. The area shall be provided with a safe and unob-
structed path of travel from the building.
[BISECTION 1025
ASSEMBLY
1025.1 General. Occupancies in Group A which contain seats,
tables, displays, equipment or other material shall comply with
this section.
1025.1.1 Bleachers. Bleachers, grandstands, and folding
and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
MEANS OF EGRESS
1025.2 Assembly main exit. Group A occupancies that have
an occupant load of greater than 300 shall be provided with a
main exit. The main exit shall be of sufficient width to accom-
modate not less than one-half of the occupant load, but such
width shall not be less than the total required width of all means
of egress leading to the exit. Where the building is classified as
a Group A occupancy, the main exit shall front on at least one
street or an unoccupied space of not less than 10 feet (3048
mm) in width that adjoins a street or public way.
Exception: In assembly occupancies where there is no
well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are pro-
vided, exits shall be permitted to be distributed around the
perimeter of the building provided that the total width of
egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width.
1025.3 Assembly other exits. In addition to having access to a
main exit, each level in a Group A occupancy having an occu-
pant load greater than 300 shall be provided with additional
means of egress that shall provide an egress capacity for at least
one-half of the total occupant load served by that level and
comply with Section 1015.2.
Exception: In assembly occupancies where there is no
well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are pro-
vided, exits shall be permitted to be distributed around the
perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of
egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width.
1025.4 Foyers and lobbies. In Group A-1 occupancies, where
persons are admitted to the building at times when seats are not
available and are allowed to wait in a lobby or similar space,
such use of lobby or similar space shall not encroach upon the
required clear width of the means of egress. Such waiting areas
shall be separated from the required means of egress by sub-
stantial permanent partitions or by fixed rigid railings not less
than 42 inches (1067 mm) high. Such foyer, if not directly con-
nected to a public street by all the main entrances or exits, shall
have a straight and unobstructed corridor or path of travel to
every such main entrance or exit.
1025.5 Interior balcony and gallery means of egress. For
balconies or galleries having a seating capacity of 50 or more
located in Group A occupancies, at least two means of egress
shall be provided, with one from each side of every balcony or
gallery and at least one leading directly to an exit.
1025.5.1 Enclosure of balcony openings. Interior stairways
and other vertical openings shall be enclosed in an exit
enclosure as provided in Section 1020.1, except that stair-
ways are permitted to be open between the balcony and the
main assembly floor in occupancies such as theaters, places
of religious worship and auditoriums. At least one accessi-
ble means of egress is required from a balcony or gallery
level containing accessible seating locations in accordance
with Section 1007.3 or 1007.4.
1025.6 Width of means of egress for assembly. The clear width
of aisles and other means of egress shall comply with Section
1025.6. 1 where smoke-protected seating is not provided and with
Section 1025.6.2 or 1025.6.3 where smoke-protected seating is
provided. The clear width shall be measured to walls, edges of
seating and tread edges except for permitted projections.
1025.6.1 Without smoke protection. The clear width of
the means of egress shall provide sufficient capacity in
accordance with all of the following, as applicable:
1 . At least 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) of width for each occupant
served shall be provided on stairs having riser heights
7 inches (178 mm) or less and tread depths 1 1 inches
(279 mm) or greater, measured horizontally between
tread nosings.
2. At least 0.005 inch (0.127 mm) of additional stair
width for each occupant shall be provided for each 0. 10
inch (2.5 mm) of riser height above 7 inches (178 mm).
3. Where egress requires stair descent, at least 0.075
inch (1.9 mm) of additional width for each occupant
shall be provided on those portions of stair width hav-
ing no handrail within a horizontal distance of 30
inches (762 mm).
4. Ramped means of egress, where slopes are steeper
than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8-percent
slope), shall have at least 0.22 inch (5.6 mm) of clear
width for each occupant served. Level or ramped
means of egress, where slopes are not steeper than one
unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8-percent slope),
shall have at least 0.20 inch (5.1 mm) of clear width
for each occupant served.
1025.6.2 Smoke-protected seating. The clear width of the
means of egress for smoke-protected assembly seating shall
not be less than the occupant load served by the egress ele-
ment multiphed by the appropriate factor in Table 1025.6.2.
The total number of seats specified shall be those within the
space exposed to the same smoke-protected environment.
TABLE 1025.6.2
WIDTH OF AISLES FOR SMOKE-PROTECTED ASSEMBLY
TOTAL NUMBER OF
SEATS IN THE SMOKE-
PROTECTED ASSEMBLY
OCCUPANCY
INCHES OF CLEAR WIDTH PER SEAT SERVED
Stairs and aisle steps with
handrails within 30 inches
Stairs and aisle steps
without handrails
within 30 inches
Passageways, doorways
and ramps not steeper
than 1 in 10 in slope
Ramps steeper
than 1 in 10 in slope
Equal to or less than 5,000
0.200
0.250
0.150
0.165
10,000
0.130
0.163
0.100
0.110
15,000
0.096
0.120
0.070
0.077
20,000
0.076
0.095
0.056
0.062
Equal to or greater than 25,000
0.060
0.075
0.044
0.048
For SI: 1 inch - 25.4 mm.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
Interpolation is permitted between the specific values
shown. A life safety evaluation, complying with NFPA 101,
shall be done for a facility utilizing the reduced width
requirements of Table 1025.6.2 for smoke-protected assem-
bly seating.
Exception: For an outdoor smoke-protected assembly
with an occupant load not greater than 18,000, the clear
width shall be determined using the factors in Section
1025.6.3.
1025.6.2.1 Smoke control. Means of egress serving a
smoke-protected assembly seating area shall be provided
with a smoke control system complying with Section
909 or natural ventilation designed to maintain the
smoke level at least 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor of
the means of egress.
1025.6.2.2 Roof height. A smoke-protected assembly
seating area with a roof shall have the lowest portion of
the roof deck not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) above the
highest aisle or aisle accessway.
Exception: A roof canopy in an outdoor stadium
shall be permitted to be less than 15 feet (4572 mm)
above the highest aisle or aisle accessway provided
that there are no objects less than 80 inches (2032
mm) above the highest aisle or aisle accessway.
1025.6.2.3 Automatic sprinklers. Enclosed areas with
walls and ceilings in buildings or structures containing
smoke-protected assembly seating shall be protected
with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Exceptions:
1 . The floor area used for contests, performances
or entertainment provided the roof construction
is more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) above the
floor level and the use is restricted to low fire
hazard uses.
2. Press boxes and storage facilities less than
1,000 square feet (93 m^) in area.
3 . Outdoor seating facilities where seating and the
means of egress in the seating area are essen-
tially open to the outside.
1025.6.3 Width of means of egress for outdoor
smoke-protected assembly. The clear width in inches
(mm) of aisles and other means of egress shall be not less
than the total occupant load served by the egress element
multiphed by 0.08 (2.0 mm) where egress is by aisles and
stairs and multiplied by 0.06 (1.52 mm) where egress is by
ramps, corridors, tunnels or vomitories.
Exception: The clear width in inches (mm) of aisles and
other means of egress shall be permitted to comply with
Section 1025.6.2 for the number of seats in the outdoor
smoke-protected assembly where Section 1025.6.2 per-
mits less width.
1025.7 Travel distance. Exits and aisles shall be so located that
the travel distance to an exit door shall not be greater than 200
feet (60 960 mm) measured along the line of travel in
nonsprinklered buildings. Travel distance shall not be more
than 250 feet (76 200 nun) in sprinklered buildings. Where
aisles are provided for seating, the distance shall be measured
along the aisles and aisle accessway without travel over or on
the seats.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke-protected assembly seating: The travel dis-
tance from each seat to the nearest entrance to a
vomitory or concourse shall not exceed 200 feet (60
960 mm). The travel distance from the entrance to the
vomitory or concourse to a stair, ramp or walk on the
exterior of the building shall not exceed 200 feet (60
960 mm).
2. Open-air seating: The travel distance from each seat
to the building exterior shall not exceed 400 feet (122
m). The travel distance shall not be limited in facilities
of Type I or II construction.
1025.8 Common path of travel. The common path of egress
travel shall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any seat to a
point where an occupant has a choice of two paths of egress
travel to two exits.
Exceptions:
1 . For areas serving less than 50 occupants, the common
path of egress travel shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860
mm).
2. For smoke-protected assembly seating, the common
path of egress travel shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240
mm).
1025.8.1 Path through adjacent row. Where one of the
two paths of travel is across the aisle through a row of seats
to another aisle, there shall be not more than 24 seats
between the two aisles, and the minimum clear width
between rows for the row between the two aisles shall be 12
inches (305 mm) plus 0.6 inch (15.2 mm) for each addi-
tional seat above seven in the row between aisles.
Exception: For smoke-protected assembly seating there
shall not be more than 40 seats between the two aisles
and the minimum clear width shall be 12 inches (305
mm) plus 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) for each additional seat.
1025.9 Assembly aisles are required. Every occupied portion
of any occupancy in Group A that contains seats, tables, dis-
plays, similar fixtures or equipment shall be provided with
aisles leading to exits or exit access doorways in accordance
with this section. Aisle accessways for tables and seating shall
comply with Section 1014.4.3.
1025.9.1 Minimum aisle width. The minimum clear width
for aisles shall be as shown:
1. Forty-eight inches (1219 mm) for aisle stairs having
seating on each side.
Exception: Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the
aisle serves less than 50 seats.
2. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for aisle stairs having
seating on only one side.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
3. Twenty-three inches (584 nun) between an aisle stair
handrail or guard and seating where the aisle is subdi-
vided by a handrail.
4. Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped
aisles having seating on both sides.
Exceptions:
1. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the aisle
serves less than 50 seats.
2. Thirty inches (762 mm) where the aisle does
not serve more than 14 seats.
5. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for level or ramped aisles
having seating on only one side.
Exceptions:
1 . Thirty inches (762 mm) where the aisle does
not serve more than 14 seats.
2. Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between an
aisle stair handrail and seating where an aisle
does not serve more than five rows on one
side.
1025.9.2 Aisle width. The aisle width shall provide suffi-
cient egress capacity for the number of persons accommo-
dated by the catchment area served by the aisle. The
catchment area served by an aisle is that portion of the total
space that is served by that section of the aisle. In establish-
ing catchment areas, the assumption shall be made that there
is a balanced use of all means of egress, with the number of
persons in proportion to egress capacity.
1025.9.3 Converging aisles. Where aisles converge to form
a single path of egress travel, the required egress capacity of
that path shall not be less than the combined required capac-
ity of the converging aisles.
1025.9.4 Uniform width. Those portions of aisles, where
egress is possible in either of two directions, shall be uni-
form in required width.
1025.9.5 Assembly aisle termination. Each end of an aisle
shall terminate at cross aisle, foyer, doorway, vomitory or
concourse having access to an exit.
Exceptions:
1 . Dead-end aisles shall not be greater than 20 feet
(6096 mm) in length.
2. Dead-end aisles longer than 20 feet (6096 mm) are
permitted where seats beyond the 20-foot (6096
mm) dead-end aisle are no more than 24 seats from
another aisle, measured along a row of seats hav-
ing a minimum clear width of 12 inches (305 mm)
plus 0.6 inch (15.2 mm) for each additional seat
above seven in the row.
3. For smoke-protected assembly seating, the
dead-end aisle length of vertical aisles shall not
exceed a distance of 21 rows.
4. For smoke-protected assembly seating, a longer
dead-end aisle is permitted where seats beyond the
21 -row dead-end aisle are not more than 40 seats
from another aisle, measured along a row of seats
having an aisle accessway with a minimum clear
width of 12 inches (305 mm) plus 0.3 inch (7.6
mm) for each additional seat above seven in the
row.
1025.9.6 Assembly aisle obstructions. There shall be no
obstructions in the required width of aisles except for hand-
rails as provided in Section 1025.13.
1025.10 Clear width of aisle accessways serving seating.
Where seating rows have 14 or fewer seats, the minimum clear
aisle accessway width shall not be less than 12 inches (305
mm) measured as the clear horizontal distance from the back of
the row ahead and the nearest projection of the row behind.
Where chairs have automatic or self-rising seats, the measure-
ment shall be made with seats in the raised position. Where any
chair in the row does not have an automatic or self-rising seat,
the measurements shall be made with the seat in the down posi-
tion. For seats with folding tablet arms, row spacing shall be
determined with the tablet arm down.
1025.10.1 Dual access. For rows of seating served by aisles
or doorways at both ends, there shall not be more than 100
seats per row. The minimum clear width of 12 inches (305
mm) between rows shall be increased by 0.3 inch (7.6 mm)
for every additional seat beyond 14 seats, but the minimum
clear width is not required to exceed 22 inches (559 mm).
Exception: For smoke-protected assembly seating, the
row length limits for a 12-inch- wide (305 mm) aisle
accessway, beyond which the aisle accessway minimum
clear width shall be increased, are in Table 1025.10.1.
TABLE 1025.10.1
SMOKE-PROTECTED
ASSEMBLY AISLE ACCESSWAYS
TOTAL NUMBER OF
SEATS IN THE SMOKE-
PROTECTED ASSEMBLY
OCCUPANCY
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SEATS PER ROW
PERMITTED TO HAVE A MINIMUM 12-INCH
CLEAR WIDTH AISLE ACCESSWAY
Aisle or doorway at
both ends of row
Aisle or doorway at
one end of row only
Less than 4,000
14
7
4,000
15
7
7,000
16
8
10,000
17
8
13,000
18
9
16,000
19
9
19,000
20
10
22,000 and greater
21
11
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
1025.10.2 Single access. For rows of seating served by an
aisle or doorway at only one end of the row, the minimum
clear width of 12 inches (305 mm) between rows shall be
increased by 0.6 inch (15.2 mm) for every additional seat
beyond seven seats, but the minimum clear width is not
required to exceed 22 inches (559 mm).
Exception: For smoke-protected assembly seating, the
row length limits for a 12-inch- wide (305 mm) aisle
accessway, beyond which the aisle accessway minimum
clear width shall be increased, are in Table 1025.10.1.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
1025.11 Assembly aisle walking surfaces. Aisles with a slope
not exceeding one unit vertical in eight units horizontal
(12.5-percent slope) shall consist of a ramp having a slip-resis-
tant walking surface. Aisles with a slope exceeding one unit
vertical in eight units horizontal (12.5-percent slope) shall con-
sist of a series of risers and treads that extends across the full
width of aisles and complies with Sections 1025.11.1 through
1025.11.3.
1025.11.1 Treads. Tread depths shall be a minimum of 11
inches (279 mm) and shall have dimensional uniformity.
Exception: The tolerance between adjacent treads shall
not exceed 0.188 inch (4.8 mm).
1025.11.2 Risers. Where the gradient of aisle stairs is to be
the same as the gradient of adjoining seating areas, the riser
height shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm) nor more
than 8 inches (203 mm) and shall be uniform within each
flight.
Exceptions:
1. Riser height nonuniformity shall be limited to the
extent necessitated by changes in the gradient of
the adjoining seating area to maintain adequate
sightlines. Where nonuniformities exceed 0.188
inch (4.8 mm) between adjacent risers, the exact
location of such nonuniformities shall be indicated
with a distinctive marking stripe on each tread at
the nosing or leading edge adjacent to the nonuni-
form risers. Such stripe shall be a minimum of 1
inch (25 mm), and a maximum of 2 inches (51
mm), wide. The edge marking stripe shall be dis-
tinctively different from the contrasting marking
stripe.
2. Riser heights not exceeding 9 inches (229 mm)
shall be permitted where they are necessitated by
the slope of the adjacent seating areas to maintain
sightlines.
1025.11.3 Tread contrasting marking stripe. A contrast-
ing marking stripe shall be provided on each tread at the nos-
ing or leading edge such that the location of each tread is
readily apparent when viewed in descent. Such stripe shall
be a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm), and a maximum of 2
inches (5 1 mm), wide.
Exception: The contrasting marking stripe is permitted
to be omitted where tread surfaces are such that the loca-
tion of each tread is readily apparent when viewed in
descent.
1025.12 Seat stability. In places of assembly, the seats shall be
securely fastened to the floor.
Exceptions:
1. In places of assembly or portions thereof without
ramped or tiered floors for seating and with 200 or
fewer seats, the seats shall not be required to be fas-
tened to the floor.
2. In places of assembly or portions thereof with seating
at tables and without ramped or tiered floors for seat-
ing, the seats shall not be required to be fastened to the
floor.
3. In places of assembly or portions thereof without
ramped or tiered floors for seating and with greater
than 200 seats, the seats shall be fastened together in
groups of not less than three or the seats shall be
securely fastened to the floor.
4. In places of assembly where flexibility of the seating
arrangement is an integral part of the design and func-
tion of the space and seating is on tiered levels, a max-
imum of 200 seats shall not be required to be fastened
to the floor. Plans showing seating, tiers and aisles
shall be submitted for approval.
5. Groups of seats within a place of assembly separated
from other seating by railings, guards, partial height
walls or similar barriers with level floors and having
no more than 14 seats per group shall not be required
to be fastened to the floor.
6. Seats intended for musicians or other performers and
separated by railings, guards, partial height walls or
similar barriers shall not be required to be fastened to
the floor.
1025.13 Handrails. Ramped aisles having a slope exceeding
one unit vertical in 15 units horizontal (6.7-percent slope) and
aisle stairs shall be provided with handrails located either at the
side or within the aisle width.
Exceptions:
1 . Handrails are not required for ramped aisles having a
gradient no greater than one unit vertical in eight units
horizontal (12.5-percent slope) and seating on both
sides.
2. Handrails are not required if, at the side of the aisle,
there is a guard that complies with the graspability
requirements of handrails.
1025.13.1 Discontinuous handrails. Where there is seat-
ing on both sides of the aisle, the handrails shall be discon-
tinuous with gaps or breaks at intervals not exceeding five
rows to facilitate access to seating and to permit crossing
from one side of the aisle to the other. These gaps or breaks
shall have a clear width of at least 22 inches (559 mm) and
not greater than 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizon-
tally, and the handrail shall have rounded terminations or
bends.
1025.13.2 Intermediate handrails. Where handrails are
provided in the middle of aisle stairs, there shall be an addi-
tional intermediate handrail located approximately 12 inches
(305 mm) below the main handrail.
1025.14 Assembly guards. Assembly guards shall comply
with Sections 1025.14.1 through 1025.14.3.
1025.14.1 Cross aisles. Cross aisles located more than 30
inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have
guards in accordance with Section 1013.
Where an elevation change of 30 inches (762 nmi) or less
occurs between a cross aisle and the adjacent floor or grade
134
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
MEANS OF EGRESS
below, guards not less than 26 inches (660 mm) above the
aisle floor shall be provided.
Exception: Where the backs of seats on the front of the
cross aisle project 24 inches (610 mm) or more above the
adjacent floor of the aisle, a guard need not be provided.
1025.14.2 Sightline-constrained guard heights. Unless
subject to the requirements of Section 1025.14.3, a fascia or
railing system in accordance with the guard requirements of
Section 1013 and having a minimum height of 26 inches
(660 mm) shall be provided where the floor or footboard
elevation is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or
grade below and the fascia or railing would otherwise inter-
fere with the sightlines of immediately adjacent seating. At
bleachers, a guard must be provided where the floor or foot-
board elevation is more than 24 inches (610 mm) above the
floor or grade below and the fascia or railing would other-
wise interfere with the sightlines of the immediately adja-
cent seating.
1025.14.3 Guards at the end of aisles. A fascia or railing
system complying with the guard requirements of Section
1013 shall be provided for the full width of the aisle where
the foot of the aisle is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above
the floor or grade below. The fascia or railing shall be a min-
imum of 36 inches (914 mm) high and shall provide a mini-
mum 42 inches (1067 mm) measured diagonally between
the top of the rail and the nosing of the nearest tread.
1025.15 Bench seating. Where bench seating is used, the num-
ber of persons shall be based on one person for each 18 inches
(457 mm) of length of the bench.
[BISECTION 1026
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE
1026.1 General. In addition to the means of egress required by
this chapter, provisions shall be made for emergency escape
and rescue in Group R and I-l occupancies. Basements and
sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall
have at least one exterior emergency escape and rescue opening
in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one
or more sleeping rooms, emergency egress and rescue open-
ings shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be
required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such openings
shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that
opens to a public way.
Exceptions:
1. In other than Group R-3 occupancies, buildings
equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2. In other than Group R-3 occupancies, sleeping rooms
provided with a door to a fire-resistance-rated corri-
dor having access to two remote exits in opposite
directions.
3. The emergency escape and rescue opening is permit-
ted to open onto a balcony within an atrium in accor-
dance with the requirements of Section 404 of the
International Building Code, provided the balcony
provides access to an exit and the dwelling unit or
sleeping unit has a means of egress that is not open to
the atrium.
4. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches
(2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency
escape and rescue windows.
5 . High-rise buildings in accordance with Section 403 of
the International Building Code.
6. Emergency escape and rescue openings are not
required from basements or sleeping rooms that have
an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into
a public way or to a yard, court or exterior exit bal-
cony that opens to a public way.
7. Basements without habitable spaces and having no
more than 200 square feet (1 8.6 m^) in floor area shall
not be required to have emergency escape windows.
1026.2 Minimum size. Emergency escape and rescue open-
ings shall have a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet
(0.53 m2).
Exception: The minimum net clear opening for emergency
escape and rescue grade-floor openings shall be 5 square
feet (0.46 m^).
1026.2.1 Minimum dimensions. The minimum net clear
opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The
minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20
inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be
the result of normal operation of the opening.
1026.3 Maximum height from floor. Emergency escape and
rescue openings shall have the bottom of the clear opening not
greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.
1026.4 Operational constraints. Emergency escape and res-
cue openings shall be operational from the inside of the room
without the use of keys or tools. Bars, grilles, grates or similar
devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and
rescue openings provided the minimum net clear opening size
complies with Section 1026.2 and such devices shall be
releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a
key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal
operation of the escape and rescue opening. Where such bars,
grilles, grates or similar devices are installed in existing build-
ings, smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Sec-
tions 907.2.10 regardless of the valuation of the alteration.
1026.5 Window wells. An emergency escape and rescue open-
ing with a finished sill height below the adjacent ground level
shall be provided with a window well in accordance with Sec-
tions 1026.5.1 and 1026.5.2.
1026.5.1 Minimum size. The minimum horizontal area of
the window well shall be 9 square feet (0.84 m^), with a min-
imum dimension of 36 inches (914 mm). The area of the
window well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue
opening to be fully opened.
1026.5.2 Ladders or steps. Window wells with a vertical
depth of more than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be equipped
with an approved permanently affixed ladder or steps. Lad-
ders or rungs shall have an inside width of at least 12 inches
(305 mm), shall project at least 3 inches (76 mm) from the
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135
MEANS OF EGRESS
wall and shall be spaced not more than 18 inches (457 mm)
on center (o.c.) vertically for the full height of the window
well. The ladder or steps shall not encroach into the required
dimensions of the window well by more than 6 inches (152
mm). The ladder or steps shall not be obstructed by the
emergency escape and rescue opening. Ladders or steps
required by this section are exempt from the stairway
requirements of Section 1009.
SECTION 1027
MEANS OF EGRESS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1027.1 General. Means of egress in existing buildings shall
comply with Sections 1003 through 1026, except as amended
in Section 1027.
Exception: Mean of egress conforming to the requirements
of the building code under which they were constructed
shall be considered as complying means of egress if, in the
opinion of the fire code official, they do not constitute a dis-
tinct hazard to life.
1027.2 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators,
escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component
of a required means of egress.
Exceptions:
1 . Elevators used as an accessible means of egress where
allowed by Section 1007.4.
2. Previously approved escalators and moving walks in
existing buildings.
1027.3 Exit sign illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or
externally illuminated. The face of an exit sign illuminated
from an external source, shall have an intensity of not less than
5 foot-candles (54 lux). Internally illuminated signs shall pro-
vide equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose.
Exception: Approved self-luminous signs that provide
evenly illuminated letters shall have a minimum luminance
of 0.06 foot-lamberts (0.21 cd/m^).
1027.4 Power source. Where emergency illumination is
required in Section 1027.5, exit signs shall be visible under
emergency illumination conditions.
Exception: Approved signs that provide continuous illumi-
nation independent of external power sources are not
required to be connected to an emergency electrical system.
1027.5 Illumination emergency power. The power supply for
means of egress illumination shall normally be provided by the
premises' electrical supply. In the event of power supply fail-
ure, illumination shall be automatically provided from an
emergency system for the following occupancies where such
occupancies require two or more means of egress:
I 1. Group A having 50 or more occupants.
Exception: Assembly occupancies used exclusively
as a place of worship and having an occupant load of
less than 300.
2. Group B buildings three or more stories in height, build-
ings with 100 or more occupants above or below the
level of exit discharge, or buildings with 1,000 or more
total occupants.
3. Group E in interior stairs, corridors, windowless areas
with student occupancy, shops and laboratories.
4. Group F having more than 100 occupants.
Exception: Buildings used only during daylight
hours which are provided with windows for natural
light in accordance with the International Building
Code.
5. Group I.
6. Group M.
Exception: Buildings less than 3,000 square feet
(279 m^) in gross sales area on one story only, exclud-
ing mezzanines.
7. Group R-1.
Exception: Where each sleeping unit has direct
access to the outside of the building at grade.
8. Group R-2.
Exception: Where each dwelling unit or sleeping unit
has direct access to the outside of the building at
grade.
9. Group R-4.
Exception: Where each sleeping unit has direct
access to the outside of the building at ground level.
The emergency power system shall provide power for not
less than 60 minutes and consist of storage batteries, unit
equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emer-
gency power system shall be in accordance with Section 604.
1027.6 Guards. Guards complying with this section shall be
provided at the open sides of means of egress that are more than
30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below.
1027.6.1 Height of guards. Guards shall form a protective
barrier not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) high.
Exceptions:
1 . Existing guards on the open side of stairs shall be
not less than 30 inches (760 mm) high.
2. Existing guards within dwelling units shall be not
less than 36 inches (910 mm) high.
3. Existing guards in assembly seating areas.
1027.6.2 Opening limitations. Open guards shall have bal-
usters or ornamental patterns such that a 6-inch diameter
(152 mm) sphere cannot pass through any opening up to a
height of 34 inches (864 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . At elevated walking surfaces for access to, and use
of electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or
equipment, guards shall have balusters or be of
solid materials such that a sphere with a diameter
of 21 inches (533 mm) cannot pass through any
opening.
136
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MEANS OF EGRESS
2. In occupancies in Group 1-3, F, H or S, the clear
distance between intermediate rails measured at
right angles to the rails shall not exceed 21 inches
(533 mm).
3. Approved existing open guards.
1027.7 Size of doors. The minimum width of each door open-
ing shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall
provide a clear width of not less than 28 inches (711 mm).
Where this section requires a minimum clear width of 28
inches (711 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves
without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a clear opening width
of 28 inches (711 mm). The maximum width of a swinging
door leaf shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of
egress doors in an occupancy in Group 1-2 used for the move-
ment of beds shall provide a clear width not less than 41.5
inches (1054 mm). The height of doors shall not be less than 80
inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . The minimum and maximum width shall not apply to
door openings that are not part of the required means
of egress in occupancies in Groups R-2 and R-3.
2. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square
feet (0.93 m^) in area shall not be limited by the mini-
mum width.
3. Width of door leafs in revolving doors that comply
with Section 1008.1.3.1 shall not be limited.
4. Door openings within a dwelling unit shall not be less
than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height.
5. Exterior door openings in dwelling units, other than
the required exit door, shall not be less than 76 inches
(1930 mm) in height.
6. Exit access doors serving a room not larger than 70
square feet (6.5 m^) shall be not less than 24 inches
(610 mm) in door width.
1027.8 Opening force for doors. The opening force for inte-
rior side-swinging doors without closers shall not exceed a
5-pound (22 N) force. For other side-swinging, sliding and
folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a
force of not more than 15 pounds (66 N). The door shall be set
in motion when subjected to a force not exceeding a 30-pound
(133 N) force. The door shall swing to a full-open position
when subjected to a force of not more than 50 pounds (222 N).
Forces shall be applied to the latch side.
1027.9 Revolving doors. Revolving doors shall comply with
the following:
1. A revolving door shall not be located within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the foot or top of stairs or escalators. A dis-
persal area shall be provided between the stairs or escala-
tors and the revolving doors.
2. The revolutions per minute for a revolving door shall not
exceed those shown in Table 1027.9.
3. Each revolving door shall have a conforming
side-hinged swinging door in the same wall as the
revolving door and within 10 feet (3048 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . A revolving door is permitted to be used without an
adjacent swinging door for street floor elevator lob-
bies provided a stairway, escalator or door from other
parts of the building does not discharge through the
lobby and the lobby does not have any occupancy or
use other than as a means of travel between elevators
and a street.
2. Existing revolving doors where the number of revolv-
ing doors does not exceed the number of swinging
doors within 20 feet (6096 mm).
TABLE 1027.9
REVOLVING DOOR SPEEDS
INSIDE DIAMETER
POWER-DRIVEN-TYPE
SPEED CONTROL (RPM)
MANUAL-TYPE
SPEED CONTROL (RPM)
6'6"
11
12
TO"
10
11
7'6"
9
11
8'0"
9
10
8'6"
8
9
9'0"
8
9
9'6"
7
8
lO'O"
7
8
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
1027.9.1 Egress component. A revolving door used as a
component of a means of egress shall comply with Section
1027.9 and all of the following conditions:
1. Revolving doors shall not be given credit for more
than 50 percent of the required egress capacity.
2. Each revolving door shall be credited with not more
than a 50-person capacity.
3. Revolving doors shall be capable of being collapsed
when a force of not more than 130 pounds (578 N) is
applied within 3 inches (76 mm) of the outer edge of a
wing.
1027.10 Stair dimensions for existing stairs. Existing stairs
in buildings shall be permitted to remain if the rise does not
exceed 8.25 inches (210 mm) and the run is not less than 9
inches (229 mm). Existing stairs can be rebuilt.
Exception: Other stairs approved by the fire code official.
1027.10.1 Stair dimensions for replacement stairs. The
replacement of an existing stairway in a structure shall not
be required to comply with the new stairway requirements
of Section 1009 where the existing space and construction
will not allow a reduction in pitch or slope.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
1027.11 Winders. Existing winders shall be allowed to remain
in use if they have a minimum tread depth of 6 inches (152 mm)
and a minimum tread depth of 9 inches (229 mm) at a point 12
inches (305 mm) from the narrowest edge.
1027.12 Circular stairways. Existing circular stairs shall be
allowed to continue in use provided the minimum depth of
tread is 10 inches (254 mm) and the smallest radius shall not be
less than twice the width of the stairway.
1027.13 Stairway handrails. Stairways shall have handrails
on at least one side. Handrails shall be located so that all por-
tions of the stairway width required for egress capacity are
within 44 inches (1118 mm) of a handrail.
Exception: Aisle stairs provided with a center handrail are
not required to have additional handrails.
1027.13.1 Height. Handrail height, measured above stair
tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762
mm) and not more than 42 inches (1067 mm).
1027.14 Slope of ramps. Ramp runs utilized as part of a means
of egress shall have a running slope not steeper than one unit
vertical in ten units horizontal (10-percent slope). The slope of
other ramps shall not be steeper than one unit vertical in eight
units horizontal (12.5-percent slope).
1027.15 Width of ramps. Existing ramps are permitted to
have a minimum width of 30 inches (762 mm) but not less than
the width required for the number of occupants served as deter-
mined by Section 1005.1.
1027.16 Fire escape stairs. Fire escape stairs shall comply
with Sections 1027.16.1 through 1027.16.7.
1027.16.1 Existing means of egress. Fire escape stairs
shall be permitted in existing buildings but shall not consti-
tute more than 50 percent of the required exit capacity.
1027.16.2 Protection of openings. Openings within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of fire escape stairs shall be protected by fire
door assemblies having a minimum V4-hour fire-resistance
rating.
Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system, opening protec-
tion is not required.
1027.16.3 Dimensions. Fire escape stairs shall meet the
minimum width, capacity, riser height and tread depth as
specified in Section 1027.10.
1027.16.4 Access. Access to a fire escape from a corridor
shall not be through an intervening room. Access to a fire
escape stair shall be from a door or window meeting the cri-
teria of Table 1005.1. Access to a fire escape stair shall be
directly to a balcony, landing or platform. These shall be no
higher than the floor or window sill level and no lower than 8
inches (203 mm) below the floor level or 18 inches (457
mm) below the window sill.
1027.16.5 Materials and strength. Components of fire
escape stairs shall be constructed of noncombustible materi-
als.
Fire escape stairs and balconies shall support the dead
load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square
foot (4.78 kN/m^). Fire escape stairs and balconies shall be
provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side.
The fire code official is authorized to require testing or
other satisfactory evidence that an existing fire escape stair
meets the requirements of this section.
1027.16.6 Termination. The lowest balcony shall not be
more than 18 feet (5486 mm) from the ground. Fire escape
stairs shall extend to the ground or be provided with coun-
terbalanced stairs reaching the ground.
Exception: For fire escape stairs serving 10 or fewer
occupants, an approved fire escape ladder is allowed to
serve as the termination for a fire escape stairs.
1027.16.7 Maintenance. Fire escapes shall be kept clear
and unobstructed at all times and shall be maintained in
good working order.
1027.17 Corridors. Corridors serving an occupant load
greater than 30 and the openings therein shall provide an effec-
tive barrier to resist the movement of smoke. Transoms, lou-
vers, doors and other openings shall be closed or be
self-closing.
Exceptions:
1. Corridors in occupancies other than in Group H,
which are equipped throughout with an approved
automatic sprinkler system.
2. Patient room doors in corridors in occupancies in
Group 1-2 where smoke barriers are provided in
accordance with the International Building Code.
3. Corridors in occupancies in Group E where each
room utilized for instruction or assembly has at least
one-half of the required means of egress doors open-
ing directly to the exterior of the building at ground
level.
4. Corridors that are in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code.
1027.17.1 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls
shall comply with the requirements of the International
Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. Where 20-minute fire door assemblies are
required, solid wood doors at least 1.75 inches (44
mm) thick or insulated steel doors are allowed.
2. Openings protected with fixed wire glass set in
steel frames.
3. Openings covered with 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) gyp-
sum wallboard or 0.75-inch (19.1 mm) plywood
on the room side.
4. Opening protection is not required when the build-
ing is equipped throughout with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
1027.17.2 Dead ends. Where more than one exit or exit
access doorway is required, the exit access shall be arranged
such that dead ends do not exceed the limits specified in
Table 1027.17.2.
Exception: A dead-end passageway or corridor shall not
be limited in length where the length of the dead-end pas-
sageway or corridor is less than 2.5 times the least width
of the dead-end passageway or corridor.
1027.17.3 Exit access travel distance. Exits shall be
located so that the maximum length of exit access travel,
measured from the most remote point to an approved exit
along the natural and unobstructed path of egress travel,
does not exceed the distances given in Table 1027.17.2.
1027.17.4 Common path of egress travel. The common
path of egress travel shall not exceed the distances given
Table 1027.17.2.
1027.18 Stairway discharge identification. A stairway in an
exit enclosure which continues below the level of exit dis-
charge shall be arranged and marked to make the direction of
egress to a public way readily identifiable.
Exception: Stairs that continue one-half story beyond the
level of exit discharge need not be provided with barriers
where the exit discharge is obvious.
1027.19 Exterior stairway protection. Exterior exit stairs
shall be separated from the interior of the building as required
TABLE 1027.17.2
COMMON PATH, DEAD-END AND TRAVEL DISTANCE LIMITS (by occupancy)
OCCUPANCY
COMMON PATH LIMIT
DEAD-END LIMIT
TRAVEL DISTANCE LIMIT
Unsprinklered
(feet)
Sprinklered
(feet)
Unsprinklered
(feet)
Sprinklered
(feet)
Unsprinklered
(feet)
Sprinklered
(feet)
Group A
20/75''
20/75^
20''
20''
200
250
Group B
75
100
50
50
200
250
Group E
75
75
20
20
200
250
Groups F- 1,8-1''
75
100
50
50
200
250
Groups F-2, S-2''
75
100
50
50
300
400
Group H-1
25
25
75
75
Group H-2
50
100
75
100
Group H-3
50
100
20
20
100
150
Group H-4
75
75
20
20
150
175
Group H-5
75
75
20
50
150
200
Group I- 1
75
75
20
20
200
250
Group 1-2 (Health Care)
NR
NR
NR
NR
150
200^^
Group 1-3 (Detention and
Correctional — Use Conditions II,
III, IV, V
100
100
NR
NR
150^
200=
Group 1-4 (Day Care Centers)
NR
NR
20
20
200
250
Group M (Covered Mall)
75
100
50
50
200
400
Group M (Mercantile)
75
100
50
50
200
250
Group R-1 (Hotels)
75
75
50
50
200
250
Group R-2 (Apartments)
75
75
50
50
200
250
Group R-3 (One- and
Two-Family); Group R-4
(Residential Care/Assisted Living)
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
Group U
75
75
20
20
200
250
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. 20 feet for common path serving 50 or more persons; 75 feet for common path serving less than 50 persons.
b. See Section 1025.9.5 for dead-end aisles in Group A occupancies.
c. This dimension is for the total travel distance, assuming incremental portions have fully utihzed their allowable maximums. For travel distance within the room,
and from the room exit access door to the exit, see the appropriate occupancy chapter.
d. See the International Building Code for special requirements on spacing of doors in aircraft hangars.
NR = No requirements.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
139
MEANS OF EGRESS
in Section 1023.6. Openings shall be limited to those necessary
for egress from normally occupied spaces.
Exceptions:
1. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for buildings that are two stories or less
above grade where the level of exit discharge is the
first story above grade.
2. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required where the exterior stairway is served by an
exterior balcony that connects two remote exterior
stairways or other approved exits, with a perimeter
that is not less than 50 percent open. To be considered
open, the opening shall be a minimum of 50 percent of
the height of the enclosing wall, with the top of the
opening not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the top
of the balcony.
3. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for an exterior stairway located in a building
or structure that is permitted to have unenclosed inte-
rior stairways in accordance with Section 1020.1.
4. Separation from the interior of the building is not
required for exterior stairways connected to
open-ended corridors, provided that:
4.1. The building, including corridors and stairs, is
equipped throughout with an automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
4.2. The open-ended corridors comply with Sec-
tion 1017.
4.3. The open-ended corridors are connected on
each end to an exterior exit stairway comply-
ing with Section 1023.1.
4.4. At any location in an open-ended corridor
where a change of direction exceeding 45 de-
grees occurs, a clear opening of not less than
35 square feet (3 m^) or an exterior stairway
shall be provided. Where clear openings are
provided, they shall be located so as to mini-
mize the accumulation of smoke or toxic
gases.
1027.20 Minimum aisles width. The minimum clear width of
aisles shall be:
1. Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for aisle stairs having seat-
ing on each side.
Exception: Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the
aisle serves less than 50 seats.
2. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for stepped aisles having
seating on only one side.
Exception: Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment
areas serving not more than 60 seats.
3. Twenty inches (508 mm) between a stepped aisle hand-
rail or guard and seating when the aisle is subdivided by
the handrail.
4. Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped aisles
having seating on both sides.
Exception: Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the
aisle serves less than 50 seats.
5. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for level or ramped aisles
having seating on only one side.
Exception: Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment
areas serving not more than 60 seats.
6. Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between a stepped stair
handrail and seating where an aisle does not serve more
than five rows on one side.
1027.21 Stairway floor number signs. Existing stairs shall be
marked in accordance with Section 1020.1.6.
SECTION 1028
MAINTENANCE OF THE MEANS OF EGRESS
1028.1 General. The means of egress for buildings or portions
thereof shall be maintained in accordance with this section.
1028.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits or exit dis-
charges shall be continuously maintained free from obstruc-
tions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or
other emergency when the areas served by such exits are occu-
pied. Security devices affecting means of egress shall be sub-
ject to approval of the fire code official.
1028.3 Obstructions. A means of egress shall be free from
obstructions that would prevent its use, including the accumu-
lation of snow and ice.
1028.4 Exit signs. Exit signs shall be installed and maintained
in accordance with Section 1011. Decorations, furnishings,
equipment or adjacent signage that impairs the visibility of exit
signs, creates confusion or prevents identification of the exit
shall not be allowed.
1028.5 Furnishings and decorations. Furnishings, decora-
tions or other objects shall not be placed so as to obstruct exits,
access thereto, egress therefrom, or visibility thereof. Hang-
ings and draperies shall not be placed over exit doors or other-
wise be located to conceal or obstruct an exit. Mirrors shall not
be placed on exit doors. Mirrors shall not be placed in or adja-
cent to any exit in such a manner as to confuse the direction of
exit.
1028.6 Emergency escape openings. Required emergency
escape openings shall be maintained in accordance with the
code in effect at the time of construction, and the following:
Required emergency escape and rescue openings shall be oper-
ational from the inside of the room without the use of keys or
tools. Bars, grilles, grates or similar devices are allowed to be
placed over emergency escape and rescue openings provided
the minimum net clear opening size complies with the code that
was in effect at the time of construction and such devices shall
be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a
key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal
operation of the escape and rescue opening.
140
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
MEANS OF EGRESS
1
1028.7 Testing and maintenance. All two-way communica-
tion systems for areas of refuge shall be inspected and tested on
a yearly basis to verify that all components are operational.
When required, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of
the fire code official.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® 141
142 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
CHAPTER 11
AVIATION FACILITIES
SECTION 1101
GENERAL
1101.1 Scope. Airports, heliports, helistops and aircraft han-
gars shall be in accordance with this chapter.
1101.2 Regulations not covered. Regulations not specifically
contained herein pertaining to airports, aircraft maintenance,
aircraft hangars and appurtenant operations shall be in accor-
dance with nationally recognized standards.
1101.3 Permits. For permits to operate aircraft-refueling vehi-
cles, application of flammable or combustible finishes, and hot
work, see Section 105.6.
SECTION 1102
DEFINITIONS
1102.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
AIRCRAFT OPERATION AREA (AOA). Any area used or
intended for use for the parking, taxiing, takeoff, landing or
other ground-based aircraft activity.
AIRPORT. An area of land or structural surface that is used, or
intended for use, for the landing and taking off of aircraft with
an overall length greater than 39 feet (1 1 887 mm) and an over-
all exterior fuselage width greater than 6.6 feet (2012 mm), and
any appurtenant areas that are used or intended for use for air-
port buildings and other airport facilities.
HELIPORT. An area of land or water or a structural surface
that is used, or intended for use, for the landing and taking off
of helicopters, and any appurtenant areas which are used, or
intended for use, for heliport buildings and other heliport facili-
ties.
HELISTOP. The same as "Heliport," except that no fueling,
defueling, maintenance, repairs or storage of helicopters is per-
mitted.
SECTION 1103
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
1103.1 Sources of ignition. Open flames, flame-producing
devices and other sources of ignition shall not be permitted in a
hangar, except in approved locations or in any location within
50 feet (15 240 mm) of an aircraft-fueling operation.
1103.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited in aircraft-refu-
eling vehicles, aircraft hangars and aircraft operation areas
used for cleaning, paint removal, painting operations or fuel-
ing. "No Smoking" signs shall be provided in accordance with
Section 310.
Exception: Designated and approved smoking areas.
1103.3 Housekeeping. The aircraft operation area (AOA) and
related areas shall be kept free from combustible debris at all
times.
1103.4 Fire department access. Fire apparatus access roads
shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Chapter
5. Fire apparatus access roads and aircraft parking positions
shall be designed in a manner so as to preclude the possibility
of fire vehicles traveling under any portion of a parked aircraft.
1103.5 Dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids.
The dispensing, transferring and storage of flammable and
combustible liquids shall be in accordance with this chapter
and Chapter 34. Aircraft motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations
shall be in accordance with Chapter 22.
1103.6 Combustible storage. Combustible materials stored in
aircraft hangars shall be stored in approved locations and con-
tainers.
1103.7 Hazardous material storage. Hazardous materials
shall be stored in accordance with Chapter 27.
SECTION 1104
AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE
1104.1 Transferring flammable and combustible liquids.
Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be dispensed into
or removed from a container, tank, vehicle or aircraft except in
approved locations.
1104.2 Application of flammable and combustible liquid
flnishes. The application of flammable or Class II combustible
liquid finishes is prohibited unless both of the following condi-
tions are met:
1 . The application of the liquid finish is accomplished in an
approved location.
2. The application methods and procedures are in accor-
dance with Chapter 15.
1104.3 Cleaning parts. Class I A flammable liquids shall not
be used to clean aircraft, aircraft parts or aircraft engines.
Cleaning with other flammable and combustible liquids shall
be in accordance with Section 3405.3.6.
1104.4 Spills. This section shall apply to spills of flammable
and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials. Fuel
spill control shall also comply with Section 1106.11.
1104.4.1 Cessation of work. Activities in the affected area
not related to the mitigation of the spill shall cease until the
spilled material has been removed or the hazard has been
mitigated.
1104.4.2 Vehicle movement. Aircraft or other vehicles
shall not be moved through the spill area until the spilled
material has been removed or the hazard has been mitigated.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
143
AVIATION FACILITIES
1104.4.3 Mitigation. Spills shall be reported, documented
and mitigated in accordance with the provisions of this
chapter and Section 2703.3.
1104.5 Running engines. Aircraft engines shall not be run in
aircraft hangars except in approved engine test areas.
1104.6 Open flame. Repairing of aircraft requiring the use of
open flames, spark-producing devices or the heating of parts
above 500°F (260°C) shall only be done outdoors or in an area
complying with the provisions of the International Building
Code for a Group F-1 occupancy.
SECTION 1105
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
1105.1 General. Portable fire extinguishers suitable for flam-
mable or combustible liquid and electrical-type fires shall be
provided as specified in Sections 1105.2 through 1105.6 and
Section 906. Extinguishers required by this section shall be
inspected and maintained in accordance with Section 906.
1105.2 On towing vehicles. Vehicles used for towing aircraft
shall be equipped with a minimum of one listed portable fire
extinguisher complying with Section 906 and having a mini-
mum rating of 20-B:C.
1105.3 On welding apparatus. Welding apparatus shall be
equipped with a minimum of one listed portable fire extin-
guisher complying with Section 906 and having a minimum
rating of 2-A:20-B:C.
1105.4 On aircraft fuel-servicing tank vehicles. Aircraft
fuel-servicing tank vehicles shall be equipped with a minimum
of two listed portable fire extinguishers complying with Sec-
tion 906, each having a minimum rating of 20-B:C. A portable
fire extinguisher shall be readily accessible from either side of
the vehicle.
1105.5 On hydrant fuel-servicing vehicles. Hydrant fuel-ser-
vicing vehicles shall be equipped with a minimum of one listed
portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906, and
having a minimum rating of 20-B:C.
1105.6 At fuel-dispensing stations. Portable fire
extinguishers at fuel-dispensing stations shall be located such
that pumps or dispensers are not more than 75 feet (22 860 mm)
from one such extinguisher. Fire extinguishers shall be pro-
vided as follows:
1 . Where the open-hose discharge capacity of the fueling
system is not more than 200 gallons per minute (13 L/s),
a minimum of two listed portable fire extinguishers com-
plying with Section 906 and having a minimum rating of
20-B:C shall be provided.
2. Where the open-hose discharge capacity of the fueling
system is more than 200 gallons per minute (13 L/s) but
not more than 350 gallons per minute (22 L/s), a mini-
mum of one listed wheeled extinguisher complying with
Section 906 and having a minimum extinguishing rating
of 80-B:C, and a minimum agent capacity of 125 pounds
(57 kg), shall be provided.
3. Where the open-hose discharge capacity of the fueling
system is more than 350 gallons per minute (22 L/s), a
minimum of two listed wheeled extinguishers comply-
ing with Section 906 and having a minimum rating of
80-B:C each, and a minimum capacity agent of 125
pounds (57 kg) of each, shall be provided.
1105.7 Fire extinguisher access. Portable fire extinguishers
required by this chapter shall be accessible at all times. Where
necessary, provisions shall be made to clear accumulations of
snow, ice and other forms of weather-induced obstructions.
1105.7.1 Cabinets. Cabinets and enclosed compartments
used to house portable fire extinguishers shall be clearly
marked with the words FIRE EXTINGUISHER in letters at
least 2 inches (5 1 mm) high. Cabinets and compartments
shall be readily accessible at all times.
1105.8 Reporting use. Use of a fire extinguisher under any cir-
cumstances shall be reported to the manager of the airport and
the fire code official immediately after use.
SECTION 1106
AIRCRAFT FUELING
1106.1 Aircraft motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations. Air-
craft motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 22.
1106.2 Airport fuel systems. Airport fuel systems shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 407.
1106.3 Construction of aircraft-fueling vehicles and acces-
sories. Aircraft-fueling vehicles shall comply with this section
and shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
NFPA 407.
1106.3.1 Transfer apparatus. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
shall be equipped and maintained with an approved transfer
apparatus.
1106.3.1.1 Internal combustion type. Where such
transfer apparatus is operated by an individual unit of the
intemal-combustion-motor type, such power unit shall
be located as remotely as practicable from pumps, pip-
ing, meters, air eliminators, water separators, hose reels,
and similar equipment, and shall be housed in a separate
compartment from any of the aforementioned items. The
fuel tank in connection therewith shall be suitably
designed and installed, and the maximum fuel capacity
shall not exceed 5 gallons (19 L) where the tank is
installed on the engine. The exhaust pipe, muffler and tail
pipe shall be shielded.
1106.3.1.2 Gear operated. Where operated by gears or
chains, the gears, chains, shafts, bearings, housing and
all parts thereof shall be of an approved design and shall
be installed and maintained in an approved manner.
1106.3.1.3 Vibration isolation. Flexible connections
for the purpose of eliminating vibration are allowed if the
material used therein is designed, installed and main-
tained in an approved manner, provided such connec-
tions do not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) in length.
1106.3.2 Pumps. Pumps of a positive-displacement type
shall be provided with a bypass relief valve set at a pressure
of not more than 35 percent in excess of the normal working
144
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AVIATION FACILITIES
pressure of such unit. Such units shall be equipped and
maintained with a pressure gauge on the discharge side of
the pump.
1106.3.3 Dispensing hoses and nozzles. Hoses shall be
designed for the transferring of hydrocarbon liquids and
shall not be any longer than necessary to provide efficient
fuel transfer operations. Hoses shall be equipped with an
approved shutoff nozzle. Fuel-transfer nozzles shall be
self-closing and designed to be actuated by hand pressure
only. Notches and other devices shall not be used for hold-
ing a nozzle valve handle in the open position. Nozzles shall
be equipped with a bonding cable complete with proper
attachment for aircraft to be serviced.
1106.3.4 Protection of electrical equipment. Electric wir-
ing, switches, lights and other sources of ignition, when
located in a compartment housing piping, pumps, air
eliminators, water separators, hose reels or similar equip-
ment, shall be enclosed in a vapor-tight housing. Electrical
motors located in such a compartment shall be of a type
approved for use as specified in ICC Electrical Code.
1106.3.5 Venting of equipment compartments. Compart-
ments housing piping, pumps, air eliminators, water separa-
tors, hose reels and similar equipment shall be adequately
ventilated at floor level or within the floor itself.
1106.3.6 Accessory equipment. Ladders, hose reels and
similar accessory equipment shall be of an approved type
and constructed substantially as follows:
1 . Ladders constructed of noncombustible material are
allowed to be used with or attached to aircraft-fueling
vehicles, provided the manner of attachment or use of
such ladders is approved and does not constitute an
additional fire or accident hazard in the operation of
such fueling vehicles.
2. Hose reels used in connection with fueling vehicles
shall be constructed of noncombustible materials and
shall be provided with a packing gland or other device
which will preclude fuel leakage between reels and
fuel manifolds.
1106.3.7 Electrical bonding provisions. Transfer appara-
tus shall be metallically interconnected with tanks, chassis,
axles and springs of aircraft-fueling vehicles.
1106.3.7.1 Bonding cables. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
shall be provided and maintained with a substantial
heavy-duty electrical cable of sufficient length to be
bonded to the aircraft to be serviced. Such cable shall be
metallically connected to the transfer apparatus or chas-
sis of the aircraft-fueling vehicle on one end and shall be
provided with a suitable metal clamp on the other end, to
be fixed to the aircraft.
1106.3.7.2 Bonding cable protection. The bonding
cable shall be bare or have a transparent protective sleeve
and be stored on a reel or in a compartment provided for
no other purpose. It shall be carried in such a manner that
it will not be subjected to sharp kinks or accidental break-
age under conditions of general use.
1106.3.8 Smoking. Smoking in aircraft-fueling vehicles is
prohibited. Signs to this effect shall be conspicuously
posted in the driver's compartment of all fueling vehicles.
1106.3.9 Smoking equipment. Smoking equipment such
as cigarette lighters and ash trays shall not be provided in
aircraft-fueling vehicles.
1106.4 Operation, maintenance and use of aircraft-fueling
vehicles. The operation, maintenance and use of aircraft-fuel-
ing vehicles shall be in accordance with Sections 1106.4.1
through 1 106.4.4 and other applicable provisions of this chap-
ter.
1106.4.1 Proper maintenance. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
and all related equipment shall be properly maintained and
kept in good repair. Accumulations of oil, grease, fuel and
other flammable or combustible materials is prohibited.
Maintenance and servicing of such equipment shall be
accomplished in approved areas.
1106.4.2 Vehicle integrity. Tanks, pipes, hoses, valves and
other fuel delivery equipment shall be maintained leak free
at all times.
1106.4.3 Removal from service. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
and related equipment which are in violation of Section
1106.4.1 or 1106.4.2 shall be immediately defueled and
removed from service and shall not be returned to service
until proper repairs have been made.
1106.4.4 Operators. Aircraft-fueling vehicles that are
operated by a person, firm or corporation other than the
permittee or the permittee's authorized employee shall be
provided with a legible sign visible from outside the vehicle
showing the name of the person, firm or corporation operat-
ing such unit.
1106.5 Fueling and defueling. Aircraft-fueling and defueling
operations shall be in accordance with Sections 1106.5.1
through 1106.5.5.
1106.5.1 Positioning of aircraft fuel-servicing vehicles.
Aircraft-fueling vehicles shall not be located, parked or per-
mitted to stand in a position where such unit would obstruct
egress from an aircraft should a fire occur during fuel-trans-
fer operations. Tank vehicles shall not be located, parked or
permitted to stand under any portion of an aircraft.
1106.5.1.1 Fueling vehicle egress. A clear path shall be
maintained for aircraft-fueling vehicles to provide for
prompt and timely egress from the fueling area.
1106.5.1.2 Aircraft vent openings. A clear space of at
least 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be maintained between air-
craft fuel-system vent openings and any part or portion
of an aircraft- fueling vehicle.
1106.5.1.3 Parking. Prior to leaving the cab, the air-
craft-fueling vehicle operator shall ensure that the park-
ing brake has been set. At least two chock blocks not less
than 5 inches by 5 inches by 12 inches (127 mm by 127
mm by 305 mm) in size and dished to fit the contour of
the tires shall be utilized and positioned in such a manner
as to preclude movement of the vehicle in any direction.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
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AVIATION FACILITIES
1106.5.2 Electrical bonding. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
shall be electrically bonded to the aircraft being fueled or
defueled. Bonding connections shall be made prior to mak-
ing fueling connections and shall not be disconnected until
the fuel-transfer operations are completed and the fuehng
connections have been removed.
Where a hydrant service vehicle or cart is used for fuel-
ing, the hydrant coupler shall be connected to the hydrant
system prior to bonding the fueling equipment to the air-
craft.
1106.5.2.1 Conductive hose. In addition to the bonding
cable required by Section 1106.5.2, conductive hose
shall be used for all fueling operations.
1106.5.2.2 Bonding conductors on transfer nozzles.
Transfer nozzles shall be equipped with approved bond-
ing conductors which shall be clipped or otherwise posi-
tively engaged with the bonding attachment provided on
the aircraft adjacent to the fuel tank cap prior to removal
of the cap.
Exception: In the case of overwing fueling where no
appropriate bonding attachment adjacent to the fuel
fill port has been provided on the aircraft, the fueling
operator shall touch the fuel tank cap with the nozzle
spout prior to removal of the cap. The nozzle shall be
kept in contact with the fill port until fueling is com-
pleted.
1106.5.2.3 Funnels. Where required, metal funnels are
allowed to be used during fueling operations. Direct con-
tact between the fueling receptacle, the funnel and the
fueling nozzle shall be maintained during the fueling
operation.
1106.5.3 Training. Aircraft-fueling vehicles shall be
attended and operated only by persons instructed in meth-
ods of proper use and operation and who are qualified to use
such fueling vehicles in accordance with minimum safety
requirements.
1106.5.3.1 Fueling hazards. Fuel-servicing personnel
shall know and understand the hazards associated with
each type of fuel dispensed by the airport fueling-system
operator.
1106.5.3.2 Fire safety training. Employees of fuel
agents who fuel aircraft, accept fuel shipments or other-
wise handle fuel shall receive approved fire safety train-
ing.
1106.5.3.2.1 Fire extinguisher training. Fuel-ser-
vicing personnel shall receive approved training in
the operation of fire-extinguishing equipment.
1106.5.3.2.2 Documentation. The airport fuel-
ing-system operator shall maintain records of all
training administered to its employees. These records
shall be made available to the fire code official on
request.
1106.5.4 Transfer personnel. During fuel-transfer opera-
tions, a qualified person shall be in control of each transfer
nozzle and another qualified person shall be in immediate
control of the fuel-pumping equipment to shut off or
otherwise control the flow of fuel from the time fueling
operations are begun until they are completed.
Exceptions:
1 . For underwing refueling, the person stationed at
the point of fuel intake is not required.
2. For overwing refueling, the person stationed at the
fuel pumping equipment shall not be required
where the person at the fuel dispensing device is
within 75 feet (22 800 mm) of the emergency shut-
off device, is not on the wing of the aircraft and has
a clear and unencumbered path to the fuel pumping
equipment; and, the fuel dispensing line does not
exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm) in length.
The fueling operator shall monitor the panel of the fuel-
ing equipment and the aircraft control panel during pressure
fueling or shall monitor the fill port during overwing fuel-
ing.
1106.5.5 Fuel flow control. Fuel flow-control valves shall
be operable only by the direct hand pressure of the operator.
Removal of the operator's hand pressure shall cause an
immediate cessation of the flow of fuel.
1106.6 Emergency fuel shutoff. Emergency fuel shutoff con-
trols and procedures shall comply with Sections 1106.6.1
through 1106.6.4.
1106.6.1 Accessibility. Emergency fuel shutoff controls
shall be readily accessible at all times when the fueling sys-
tem is being operated.
1106.6.2 Notification of the fire department. The fuel-
ing-system operator shall establish a procedure by which
the fire department will be notified in the event of an activa-
tion of an emergency fuel shutoff control.
1106.6.3 Determining cause. Prior to reestablishment of
normal fuel flow, the cause of fuel shutoff conditions shall
be determined and corrected.
1106.6.4 Testing. Emergency fuel shutoff devices shall be
operationally tested at intervals not exceeding three months.
The fueling-system operator shall maintain suitable records
of these tests.
1106.7 Protection of hoses. Before an aircraft-fueling vehicle
is moved, fuel transfer hoses shall be properly placed on the
approved reel or in the compartment provided, or stored on the
top decking of the fueling vehicle if proper height rail is pro-
vided for security and protection of such equipment.
Fuel-transfer hose shall not be looped or draped over any part
of the fueling vehicle, except as herein provided. Fuel-transfer
hose shall not be dragged when such fueling vehicle is moved
from one fueling position to another.
1106.8 Loading and unloading. Aircraft-fueling vehicles
shall be loaded only at an approved loading rack. Such loading
racks shall be in accordance with Section 3406.5.1.12.
Exceptions:
1 . Aircraft-refueling units may be loaded from the fuel
tanks of an aircraft during defueling operations.
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AVIATION FACILITIES
2. Fuel transfer between tank vehicles is allowed to be
performed in accordance with Section 3406.6 when
the operation is at least 200 feet (60 960 mm) from an
aircraft.
The fuel cargo of such units shall be unloaded only by
approved transfer apparatus into the fuel tanks of aircraft,
underground storage tanks or approved gravity storage tanks.
1106.9 Passengers. Passenger traffic is allowed during the
time fuel transfer operations are in progress, provided the fol-
lowing provisions are strictly enforced by the owner of the air-
craft or the owner's authorized employee:
1 . Smoking and producing an open flame in the cabin of the
aircraft or the outside thereof within 50 feet (15 240 mm)
of such aircraft shall be prohibited.
A qualified employee of the aircraft owner shall be
responsible for seeing that the passengers are not
allowed to smoke when remaining aboard the aircraft or
while going across the ramp from the gate to such air-
craft, or vice versa.
2. Passengers shall not be permitted to linger about the
plane, but shall proceed directly between the loading
gate and the aircraft.
3. Passenger loading stands or walkways shall be left in
loading position until all fuel transfer operations are
completed.
4. Fuel transfer operations shall not be performed on the
main exit side of any aircraft containing passengers
except when the owner of such aircraft or a capable and
qualified employee of such owner remains inside the air-
craft to direct and assist the escape of such passengers
through regular and emergency exits in the event fire
should occur during fuel transfer operations.
1106.10 Sources of ignition. Smoking and producing open
flames within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a point where fuel is
being transferred shall be prohibited. Electrical and
motor-driven devices shall not be connected to or disconnected
from an aircraft at any time fueling operations are in progress
on such aircraft.
1106.11 Fuel spill prevention and procedures. Fuel spill pre-
vention and the procedures for handling spills shall comply
with Sections 1106.11.1 through 1106.11.7.
1106.11.1 Fuel-service equipment maintenance. Aircraft
fuel-servicing equipment shall be maintained and kept free
from leaks. Fuel- servicing equipment that malfunctions or
leaks shall not be continued in service.
1106.11.2 Transporting fuel nozzles. Fuel nozzles shall be
carried utilizing appropriate handles. Dragging fuel nozzles
along the ground shall be prohibited.
1106.11.3 Drum fueling. Fueling from drums or other con-
tainers having a capacity greater than 5 gallons (19 L) shall
be accomplished with the use of an approved pump.
1106.11.4 Fuel spill procedures. The fueling-system oper-
ator shall establish procedures to follow in the event of a fuel
spill. These procedures shall be comprehensive and shall
provide for at least all of the following:
1 . Upon observation of a fuel spill, the aircraft-fueling
operator shall immediately stop the delivery of fuel
by releasing hand pressure from the fuel flow-control
valve.
2. Failure of the fuel control valve to stop the continued
spillage of fuel shall be cause for the activation of the
appropriate emergency fuel shutoff device.
3. A supervisor for the fueling-system operator shall
respond to the fuel spill area immediately.
1106.11.5 Notification of the fire department. The fire
department shall be notified of any fuel spill which is con-
sidered a hazard to people or property or which meets one or
more of the following criteria:
1. Any dimension of the spill is greater than 10 feet
(3048 mm).
2. The spill area is greater than 50 square feet (4.65 m^).
3. The fuel flow is continuous in nature.
1106.11.6 Investigation required. An investigation shall
be conducted by the fueling-system operator of all spills
requiring notification of the fire department. The investiga-
tion shall provide conclusive proof of the cause and verifica-
tion of the appropriate use of emergency procedures. Where
it is determined that corrective measures are necessary to
prevent future incidents of the same nature, they shall be
implemented immediately.
1106.11.7 Multiple fuel delivery vehicles. Simultaneous
delivery of fuel from more than one aircraft-fueling vehicle
to a single aircraft-fueling manifold is prohibited unless
proper backflow prevention devices are installed to prevent
fuel flow into the tank vehicles.
1106.12 Aircraft engines and heaters. Operation of aircraft
onboard engines and combustion heaters shall be terminated
prior to commencing fuel service operations and shall remain
off until the fuel-servicing operation is completed.
Exception: In an emergency, a single jet engine is allowed
to be operated during fuel servicing where all of the follow-
ing conditions are met:
1 . The emergency shall have resulted from an onboard
failure of the aircraft's auxiliary power unit.
2. Restoration of auxiliary power to the aircraft by
ground support services is not available.
3. The engine to be operated is either at the rear of the
aircraft or on the opposite side of the aircraft from the
fuel seiTice operation.
4. The emergency operation is in accordance with a
written procedure approved by the fire code official.
1106.13 Vehicle and equipment restrictions. During aircraft-
fueling operations, only the equipment actively involved in the
fueling operation is allowed within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
147
AVIATION FACILITIES
aircraft being fueled. Other equipment shall be prohibited in
this area until the fueling operation is complete.
Exception: Aircraft-fueling operations utilizing sin-
gle-point refueling with a sealed, mechanically locked fuel
line connection and the fuel is not a Class I flammable liq-
uid.
A clear space of at least 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be main-
tained between aircraft fuel-system vent openings and any part
or portion of aircraft- servicing vehicles or equipment.
1106.13.1 Overwing fueling. Vehicles or equipment shall
not be allowed beneath the trailing edge of the wing when
aircraft fueling takes place over the wing and the aircraft
fuel-system vents are located on the upper surface of the
wing.
1106.14 Electrical equipment. Electrical equipment, includ-
ing but not limited to, battery chargers, ground or auxiliary
power units, fans, compressors or tools, shall not be operated,
nor shall they be connected or disconnected from their power
source, during fuel service operations.
1106.14.1 Other equipment. Electrical or other spark-pro-
ducing equipment shall not be used within 10 feet (3048
mm) of fueling equipment, aircraft fill or vent points , or spill
areas unless that equipment is intrinsically safe and
approved for use in an explosive atmosphere.
1106.15 Open flames. Open flames and open-flame devices
are prohibited within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any aircraft
fuel-servicing operation or fueling equipment.
1106.15.1 Other areas. The fire code official is authorized
to establish other locations where open flames and
open-flame devices are prohibited.
1106.15.2 Matches and lighters. Personnel assigned to
and engaged in fuel-servicing operations shall not carry
matches or lighters on or about their person. Matches or
lighters shall be prohibited in, on or about aircraft-fueling
equipment.
1106.16 Lightning procedures. The fire code official is autho-
rized to require the airport authority and the fueling-system
operator to establish written procedures to follow when light-
ning flashes are detected on or near the airport. These proce-
dures shall establish criteria for the suspension and resumption
of aircraft-fueling operations.
1106.17 Fuel-transfer locations. Aircraft fuel-transfer opera-
tions shall be prohibited indoors.
Exception: In aircraft hangars built in accordance with the
provisions of the International Building Code for Group
F-1 occupancies, aircraft fuel-transfer operations are
allowed where:
1 . Necessary to accomplish aircraft fuel-system mainte-
nance operations. Such operations shall be performed
in accordance with nationally recognized standards;
or
2. The fuel being used has a flash point greater than
100°F (37.8°C).
1106.17.1 Position of aircraft. Aircraft being fueled shall
be positioned such that any fuel system vents and other fuel
tank openings are a minimum of:
1 . Twenty-five feet (7620 mm) from buildings or struc-
tures other than jet bridges; and
2. Fifty feet (15 240 mm) from air intake vents for
boiler, heater or incinerator rooms.
1106.17.2 Fire equipment access. Access for fire service
equipment to aircraft shall be maintained during fuel-ser-
vicing operations.
1106.18 Defueling operations. The requirements for fueling
operations contained in this section shall also apply to aircraft
defueling operations. Additional procedures shall be estab-
lished by the fueling-system operator to prevent overfilling of
the tank vehicle used in the defueling operation.
1106.19 Maintenance of aircraft-fueling hose. Aircraft-fuel-
ing hoses shall be maintained in accordance with Sections
1106.19.1 through 1106.19.4.
1106.19.1 Inspections. Hoses used to fuel or defuel aircraft
shall be inspected periodically to ensure their serviceability
and suitability for continued service. The fuel-service oper-
ator shall maintain records of all tests and inspections per-
formed on fueling hoses. Hoses found to be defective or
otherwise damaged shall be immediately removed from ser-
vice.
1106.19.1.1 Daily inspection. Each hose shall be
inspected daily. This inspection shall include a complete
visual scan of the exterior for evidence of damage, blis-
tering or leakage. Each coupling shall be inspected for
evidence of leaks, slippage or misalignment.
1106.19.1.2 Monthly inspection. A more thorough
inspection, including pressure testing, shall be accom-
plished for each hose on a monthly basis. This inspection
shall include examination of the fuel delivery inlet screen
for rubber particles, which indicates problems with the
hose lining.
1106.19.2 Damaged hose. Hose that has been subjected to
severe abuse shall be immediately removed from service.
Such hoses shall be hydrostatically tested prior to being
returned to service.
1106.19.3 Repairing hose. Hoses are allowed to be
repaired by removing the damaged portion and recoupling
the undamaged end. When recoupling hoses, only cou-
plings designed and approved for the size and type of hose in
question shall be used. Hoses repaired in this manner shall
be visually inspected and hydrostatically tested prior to
being placed back in service.
1106.19.4 New hose. New hose shall be visually inspected
prior to being placed into service.
1106.20 Aircraft fuel-servicing vehicles parking. Unat-
tended aircraft fuel-servicing vehicles shall be parked in areas
that provide for both the unencumbered dispersal of vehicles in
the event of an emergency and the control of leakage such that
adjacent buildings and storm drains are not contaminated by
leaking fuel.
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AVIATION FACILITIES
1106.20.1 Parking area design. Parking areas for tank
vehicles shall be designed and utilized such that a clearance
of 10 feet (3048 mm) is maintained between each parked
vehicle for fire department access. In addition, a minimum
clearance of 50 feet (15 240 mm) shall be maintained
between tank vehicles and parked aircraft and structures
other than those used for the maintenance and/or garaging
of aircraft fuel-servicing vehicles.
1106.21 Radar equipment. Aircraft fuel-servicing operations
shall be prohibited while the weather-mapping radar of that air-
craft is operating.
Aircraft fuel-servicing or other operations in which flamma-
ble liquids, vapors or mists may be present shall not be con-
ducted within 300 feet (91 440 mm) of an operating aircraft
surveillance radar.
Aircraft fuel-servicing operations shall not be conducted
within 300 feet (91 440 mm) of airport flight traffic surveil-
lance radar equipment.
Aircraft fuel-servicing or other operations in which flamma-
ble liquids, vapors or mists may be present shall not be con-
ducted within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of airport ground traffic
surveillance radar equipment.
1106.21.1 Direction of radar beams. The beam from
ground radar equipment shall not be directed toward fuel
storage or loading racks.
Exceptions:
1. Fuel storage and loading racks in excess of 300
feet (9 1 440 mm) from airport flight traffic surveil-
lance equipment.
2. Fuel storage and loading racks in excess of 100
feet (30 480 mm) from airport ground traffic sur-
veillance equipment.
or heliport is located. All portions of the helistop and heliport
area shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of a 2.5-inch (63.5
mm) outlet on a Class I or III standpipe.
1107.6 Foam protection. Foam fire-protection capabilities
shall be provided for rooftop heliports. Such systems shall be
designed, installed and maintained in accordance with the
applicable provisions of Sections 903, 904 and 905.
1107.7 Fire extinguishers. A minimum of one portable fire
extinguisher having a minimum 80-B:C rating shall be pro-
vided for each permanent takeoff and landing area and for the
aircraft parking areas. Installation, inspection and maintenance
of these extinguishers shall be in accordance with Section 906.
1107.8 Federal approval. Before operating helicopters from
helistops and heliports, approval shall be obtained from the
Federal Aviation Administration.
SECTION 1107
HELISTOPS AND HELIPORTS
1107.1 General. Helistops and heliports shall be maintained in
accordance with Sections 1107. 2 through 1107.8. Helistops
and heliports on buildings shall be constructed in accordance
with the International Building Code.
1107.2 Clearances. The touchdown area shall be surrounded
on all sides by a clear area having minimum average width at
roof level of 15 feet (4572 mm) but no width less than 5 feet
(1524 mm). The clear area shall be maintained.
1107.3 Flammable and Class II combustible liquid spillage.
Landing areas on structures shall be maintained so as to confine
flammable or Class II combustible liquid spillage to the land-
ing area itself, and provisions shall be made to drain such spill-
age away from exits or stairways serving the helicopter landing
area or from a structure housing such exit or stairway.
1107.4 Exits. Exits and stairways shall be maintained in accor-
dance with Section 412.5 of the International Building Code.
1107.5 Standpipe systems. Where a building with a rooftop
helistop or heliport is equipped with a standpipe system, the
system shall be extended to the roof level on which the helistop
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
149
150 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 12
DRY CLEANING
SECTION 1201
GENERAL
1201.1 Scope. Dry cleaning plants and their operations shall
comply with the requirements of this chapter.
1201.2 Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth
in Section 105.6.
SECTION 1202
DEFINITIONS
1202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
DRY CLEANING. The process of removing dirt, grease,
paints and other stains from such items as wearing apparel, tex-
tiles, fabrics and rugs by use of nonaqueous liquids (solvents).
DRY CLEANING PLANT. A facility in which dry cleaning
and associated operations are conducted, including the office,
receiving area and storage rooms.
DRY CLEANING ROOM. An occupiable space within a
building used for performing dry cleaning operations, the
installation of solvent-handling equipment or the storage of dry
cleaning solvents.
DRY CLEANING SYSTEM. Machinery or equipment in
which textiles are immersed or agitated in solvent or in which
dry cleaning solvent is extracted from textiles.
SOLVENT OR LIQUID CLASSIFICATIONS. A method
for classifying solvents or liquids according to the following
classes:
Class I solvents. Liquids having a flash point below 100°F
(38°C).
Class II solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or above
100°F (38°C) and below 140°F (60°C).
Class IIIA solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or
above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93°C).
Class IIIB solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or above
200°F (93°C).
Class IV solvents. Liquids classified as nonflammable.
SECTION 1203
CLASSIFICATIONS
1203.1 Solvent classification. Dry cleaning solvents shall be
classified according to their flash points as follows:
1 . Class I solvents are liquids having a flash point below
100°F (38°C).
2. Class II solvents are liquids having a flash point at or
above 100°F (38°C) and below 140°F (60°C).
3. Class IIIA solvents are liquids having a flash point at or
above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93°C).
4. Class IIIB solvents are liquids having a flash point at or
above 200°F (93°C).
5 . Class IV solvents are liquids classified as nonflammable.
1203.2 Classification of dry cleaning plants and systems.
Dry cleaning plants and systems shall be classified based on the
solvents used as follows:
1 . Type I — systems using Class I solvents.
2. Type II — systems using Class II solvents.
3. Type III- A — systems using Class IIIA solvents.
4. Type III-B — systems using Class IIIB solvents.
5. Type IV — systems using Class IV solvents in which dry
cleaning is not conducted by the public.
6. Type V — systems using Class IV solvents in which dry
cleaning is conducted by the public.
Spotting and pretreating operations conducted in accor-
dance with Section 1206 shall not change the type of the dry
cleaning plant.
1203.2.1 Multiple solvents. Dry cleaning plants using
more than one class of solvent for dry cleaning shall be clas-
sified based on the numerically lowest solvent class.
1203.3 Design. The occupancy classification, design and con-
struction of dry cleaning plants shall comply with the applica-
ble requirements of the International Building Code.
SECTION 1204
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1204.1 Prohibited use. Type I dry cleaning plants shall be pro-
hibited. Limited quantities of Class I solvents stored and used
in accordance with this section shall not be prohibited in dry
cleaning plants.
1204.2 Building services. Building services and systems shall
be designed, installed and maintained in accordance with this
section and Chapter 6.
1204.2.1 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided in
accordance with Section 502 of the International Mechani-
cal Code and DDL 29 CFR Part 1910. 1000, where applica-
ble.
1204.2.2 Heating. In Type II dry cleaning plants, heating
shall be by indirect means using steam, hot water or hot oil
only.
1204.2.3 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wir-
ing and equipment in dry cleaning rooms or other locations
subject to flammable vapors shall be installed in accordance
with the ICC Electrical Code.
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1204.2.4 Bonding and grounding. Storage tanks, treat-
ment tanks, filters, pumps, piping, ducts, dry cleaning units,
stills, tumblers, drying cabinets and other such equipment,
where not inherently electrically conductive, shall be
bonded together and grounded. Isolated equipment shall be
grounded.
SECTION 1205
OPERATING REQUIREMENTS
1205.1 General. The operation of dry cleaning systems shall
comply with the requirements of Sections 1205.1.1 through
1205.3.
1205.1.1 Written instructions. Written instructions cover-
ing the proper installation and safe operation and use of
equipment and solvent shall be given to the buyer.
1205.1.1.1 Type II, III-A, III-B and IV systems. In
Type II, III-A, III-B and IV dry cleaning systems,
machines shall be operated in accordance with the oper-
ating instructions furnished by the machinery manufac-
turer. Employees shall be instructed as to the hazards
involved in their departments and in the work they per-
form.
1205.1.1.2 Type V systems. Operating instructions for
customer use of Type V dry cleaning systems shall be
conspicuously posted in a location near the dry cleaning
unit. A telephone number shall be provided for emer-
gency assistance.
1205.1.2 Equipment identification. The manufacturer
shall provide nameplates on dry cleaning machines indicat-
ing the class of solvent for which each machine is designed.
1205.1.3 Open systems prohibited. Dry cleaning by
immersion and agitation in open vessels shall be prohibited.
1205.1.4 Prohibited use of solvent. The use of solvents
with a flash point below that for which a machine is
designed or listed shall be prohibited.
1205.1.5 Equipment maintenance and housekeeping.
Proper maintenance and operating practices shall be
observed in order to prevent the leakage of solvent or the
accumulation of lint. The handling of waste material gener-
ated by dry cleaning operations and the maintenance of
facilities shall comply with the provisions of this section.
1205.1.5.1 Floors. Class I and II liquids shall not be used
for cleaning floors.
1205.1.5.2 Filters. Filter residue and other residues con-
taining solvent shall be handled and disposed of in cov-
ered metal containers.
1205.1.5.3 Lint. Lint and refuse shall be removed from
traps daily, deposited in approved waste cans, removed
from the premises, and disposed of safely. At all other
times, traps shall be held securely in place.
1205.1.5.4 Customer areas. In Type V dry cleaning sys-
tems, customer areas shall be kept clean.
1205.2 Type II systems. Special operating requirements for
Type II dry cleaning systems shall comply with the provisions
of Sections 1205.2.1 through 1205.2.3.
1205.2.1 Inspection of materials. Materials to be dry
cleaned shall be searched thoroughly and foreign materials,
including matches and metallic substances, shall be
removed.
1205.2.2 Material transfer. In removing materials from the
washer, provisions shall be made for minimizing the drip-
ping of solvent on the floor. Where materials are transferred
from a washer to a drain tub, a nonferrous metal drip apron
shall be placed so that the apron rests on the drain tub and the
cylinder of the washer.
1205.2.3 Ventilation. A mechanical ventilation system
which is designed to exhaust 1 cubic foot of air per minute
for each square foot of floor area [0.0058 mV(s • m^)] shall
be installed in dry cleaning rooms and in drying rooms. The
ventilation system shall operate automatically when the dry
cleaning equipment is in operation and shall have manual
controls at an approved location.
1205.3 Type IV and V systems. Type IV and V dry cleaning
systems shall be provided with an automatically activated
exhaust ventilation system to maintain a minimum of 100 feet
per minute (0.51 m/s) air velocity through the loading door
when the door is opened. Such systems for dry cleaning equip-
ment shall comply with the International Mechanical Code.
Exception: Dry cleaning units are not required to be pro-
vided with exhaust ventilation where an exhaust hood is
installed immediately outside of and above the loading door
which operates at an airflow rate as follows:
where:
(Equation 12-1)
Q = flow rate exhausted through the hood, cubic feet per
minute (m^/s).
A^o= area of the loading door, square feet (m^).
SECTION 1206
SPOTTING AND PRETREATING
1206.1 General. Spotting and pretreating operations and
equipment shall comply with the provisions of Sections 1206.2
through 1206.5.
1206.2 Type I solvents. The maximum quantity of Type I sol-
vents permitted at any work station shall be 1 gallon (4 L).
Class I solvents shall be stored in approved safety cans or in
sealed DOTn-approved metal shipping containers of not more
than 1 -gallon (4 L) capacity. Dispensing shall be from
approved safety cans.
1206.3 Type II and III solvents. Scouring, brushing, and spot-
ting and pretreating shall be conducted with Class II or III sol-
vents. The maximum quantity of Type II or III solvents
permitted at any work station shall be 1 gallon (4 L). In other
than a Group H-2 occupancy, the aggregate quantities of sol-
vents shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity per
control area for use-open system.
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1206.3.1 Spotting tables. Scouring, brushing or spotting
tables on which articles are soaked in solvent shall have a
liquid-tight top with a curb on all sides not less than 1 inch
(25 mm) high. The top of the table shall be pitched to ensure
thorough draining to a 1.5-inch (38 mm) drain connected to
an approved container.
1206.3.2 Special handling. When approved, articles that
cannot be washed in the usual washing machines are
allowed to be cleaned in scrubbing tubs. Scrubbing tubs
shall comply with the following:
1 . Only Class II or III liquids shall be used.
2. The total amount of solvent used in such open con-
tainers shall not exceed 3 gallons (11 L).
3. Scrubbing tubs shall be secured to the floor.
4. Scrubbing tubs shall be provided with permanent 1 .5-
inch (38 mm) drains. Such drain shall be provided
with a trap and shall be connected to an approved con-
tainer.
1206.3.3 Ventilation. Scrubbing tubs, scouring, brushing
or spotting operations shall be located such that solvent
vapors are captured and exhausted by the ventilating sys-
tem.
1206.3.4 Bonding and grounding. Metal scouring, brush-
ing and spotting tables and scrubbing tubs shall be perma-
nently and effectively bonded and grounded.
1206.4 Type IV systems. Flammable and combustible liquids
used for spotting operations shall be stored in approved safety
cans or in sealed DOTn-approved metal shipping containers of
not more than 1 gallon (4 L) in capacity. Dispensing shall be
from approved safety cans. Aggregate amounts shall not
exceed 10 gallons (38 L).
1206.5 Type V systems. Spotting operations using flammable
or combustible liquids are prohibited in Type V dry cleaning
systems.
SECTION 1207
DRY CLEANING SYSTEMS
1207.1 General equipment requirements. Dry cleaning sys-
tems, including dry cleaning units, washing machines, stills,
drying cabinets, tumblers, and their appurtenances, including
pumps, piping, valves, filters and solvent coolers, shall be
installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 32. The
construction of buildings in which such systems are located
shall comply with the requirements of this section and the
International Building Code. B:C portable fire extinguishers
shall be provided near the doors inside dry cleaning rooms con-
taining Type II, Type III-A and Type III-B dry cleaning sys-
tems.
1207.2 Type II systems. Type II dry cleaning and solvent tank
storage rooms shall not be located below grade or above the
lowest floor level of the building and shall comply with Sec-
tions 1207.2.1 through 1207.2.3.
Exception: Solvent storage tanks installed underground, in
vaults or in special enclosures in accordance with Chapter
34.
1207.2.1 Fire-fighting access. Type II dry cleaning plants
shall be located so that access is provided and maintained
from one side for fire-fighting and fire control purposes in
accordance with Section 503.
1207.2.2 Number of means of egress. Type II dry cleaning
rooms shall have not less than two means of egress doors
located at opposite ends of the room, at least one of which
shall lead directly to the outside.
1207.2.3 Spill control and secondary containment.
Curbs, drains, or other provisions for spill control and sec-
ondary containment shall be provided in accordance with
Section 2704.2 to collect solvent leakage and fire protection
water and direct it to a safe location.
1207.3 Solvent storage tanks. Solvent storage tanks for Class
II, IIIA and IIIB liquids shall conform to the requirements of
Chapter 34 and be located underground or outside, above
ground.
Exception: As provided in NFPA 32 for inside storage or
treatment tanks.
SECTION 1208
FIRE PROTECTION
1208.1 General. Where required by this section, fire protec-
tion systems, devices and equipment shall be installed,
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Chapter 9.
1208.2 Automatic sprinkler system. An automatic sprinkler
system shall be installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1
throughout dry cleaning plants containing Type II, Type III-A
or Type III-B dry cleaning systems.
1208.3 Automatic fire-extinguishing systems. Type II dry
cleaning units, washer-extractors, and drying tumblers in Type
II dry cleaning plants shall be provided with an approved auto-
matic fire-extinguishing system installed and maintained in
accordance with Chapter 9.
Exception: Where approved, a manual steam jet not less
than 0.75 inch (19 mm) with a continuously available steam
supply at a pressure not less than 15 pounds per square inch
gauge (psig) (103 kPa) is allowed to be substituted for the
automatic fire-extinguishing system.
1208.4 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers shall be selected, installed and maintained in
accordance with this section and Section 906. A minimum of
two 2-A:10-B:C portable fire extinguishers shall be provided
near the doors inside dry cleaning rooms containing Type II,
Type III-A and Type III-B dry cleaning systems.
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CHAPTER 13
COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING OPERATIONS
SECTION 1301
GENERAL
1301.1 Scope. The equipment, processes and operations
involving dust explosion hazards shall comply with the provi-
sions of this chapter.
1301.2 Permits. Permits shall be required for combustible
dust-producing operations as set forth in Section 105.6.
SECTION 1302
DEFINITIONS
1302.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
COMBUSTIBLE DUST. Finely divided solid material which
is 420 microns or less in diameter and which, when dispersed in
air in the proper proportions, could be ignited by a flame, spark
or other source of ignition. Combustible dust will pass through
a U.S. No. 40 standard sieve.
TABLE 1304.1
EXPLOSION PROTECTION STANDARDS
STANDARD
SUBJECT
NFPA61
Agricultural and Food Products
NFPA69
Explosion Prevention
NFPA85
Boiler and Combustion System Hazards
NFPA 120
Coal Preparation Plants
NFPA484
Combustible Metals, Metal Powders and •
Metal Dusts
NFPA 654
Manufacturing, Processing and Handling of
Combustible Particulate Solids
NFPA 655
Prevention of Sulfur Fires and Explosions
NFPA 664
Prevention of Fires and Explosions in Wood
Processing and Woodworking Facilities
ICC Electrical Code
Electrical Installations
SECTION 1303
PRECAUTIONS
1303.1 Sources of ignition. Smoking or the use of heating or
other devices employing an open flame, or the use of spark-
producing equipment is prohibited in areas where combustible
dust is generated, stored, manufactured, processed or handled.
1303.2 Housekeeping. Accumulation of combustible dust
shall be kept to a minimum in the interior of buildings. Accu-
mulated combustible dust shall be collected by vacuum clean-
ing or other means that will not place combustible dust into
suspension in air. Forced air or similar methods shall not be
used to remove dust from surfaces.
SECTION 1304
EXPLOSION PROTECTION
1304.1 Standards. The fire code official is authorized to
enforce applicable provisions of the codes and standards listed
in Table 1304.1 to prevent and control dust explosions.
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CHAPTER 14
FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
SECTION 1401
GENERAL
1401.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to structures in the
course of construction, alteration, or demolition, including
those in underground locations. Compliance with NFPA 241 is
required for items not specifically addressed herein.
1401.2 Purpose. This chapter prescribes minimum safeguards
for construction, alteration, and demolition operations to pro-
vide reasonable safety to life and property from fire during
such operations.
SECTION 1402
DEFINITIONS
1402.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 1403
TEMPORARY HEATING EQUIPMENT
1403.1 Listed. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and
labeled in accordance with the International Mechanical Code
or the International Fuel Gas Code. Installation, maintenance
and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance
with the terms of the listing.
1403.2 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired heaters shall comply with
Section 603.
1403.3 LP-gas heaters. Fuel supplies for liquefied-petroleum
gas-fired heaters shall comply with Chapter 38 and the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code.
1403.4 Refueling. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled
equipment or appliances shall be conducted in accordance with
Section 3405. The equipment or appliance shall be allowed to
cool prior to refueling.
1403.5 Installation. Clearance to combustibles from tempo-
rary heating devices shall be maintained in accordance with the
labeled equipment. When in operation, temporary heating
devices shall be fixed in place and protected from damage,
dislodgement or overturning in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions.
1403.6 Supervision. The use of temporary heating devices
shall be supervised and maintained only by competent person-
nel.
SECTION 1404
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
1404.1 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited except in
approved areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Sec-
tion 310. In approved areas where smoking is permitted,
approved ashtrays shall be provided in accordance with Sec-
tion 310.
1404.2 Waste disposal. Combustible debris shall not be accu-
mulated within buildings. Combustible debris, rubbish and
waste material shall be removed from buildings at the end of
each shift of work. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste
material shall not be disposed of by burning on the site unless
approved.
1404.3 Open burning. Open burning shall comply with Sec-
tion 307.
1404.4 Spontaneous ignition. Materials susceptible to spon-
taneous ignition, such as oily rags, shall be stored in a listed dis-
posal container.
1404.5 Fire watch. When required by the fire code official for
building demolition that is hazardous in nature, qualified per-
sonnel shall be provided to serve as an on-site fire watch. Fire
watch personnel shall be provided with at least one approved
means for notification of the fire department and their sole duty
shall be to perform constant patrols and watch for the occur-
rence of fire.
1404.6 Cutting and welding. Operations involving the use of
cutting and welding shall be done in accordance with Chapter
26.
1404.7 Electrical. Temporary wiring for electrical power and
lighting installations used in connection with the construction,
alteration or demolition of buildings, structures, equipment or
similar activities shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code.
SECTION 1405
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
1405.1 Storage of flammable and combustible liquids. Stor-
age of flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accor-
dance with Section 3404.
1405.2 Class I and Class II liquids. The storage, use and han-
dling of flammable and combustible liquids at construction
sites shall be in accordance with Section 3406.2. Ventilation
shall be provided for operations involving the application of
materials containing flammable solvents.
1405.3 Housekeeping. Flammable and combustible liquid
storage areas shall be maintained clear of combustible vegeta-
tion and waste materials. Such storage areas shall not be used
for the storage of combustible materials.
1405.4 Precautions against fire. Sources of ignition and
smoking shall be prohibited in flammable and combustible liq-
uid storage areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Sec-
tion 310.
1405.5 Handling at point of final use. Class I and II liquids
shall be kept in approved safety containers.
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1405,6 Leakage and spills. Leaking vessels shall be immedi-
ately repaired or taken out of service and spills shall be cleaned
up and disposed of properly.
SECTION 1406
FLAMMABLE GASES
1406.1 Storage and handling. The storage, use and handling
of flammable gases shall comply with Chapter 35.
SECTION 1407
EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
1407.1 Storage and handling. Explosive materials shall be
stored, used and handled in accordance with Chapter 33.
1407.2 Supervision. Blasting operations shall be conducted in
accordance with Chapter 33.
1407.3 Demolition using explosives. Approved fire hoses for
use by demolition personnel shall be maintained at the demoli-
tion site whenever explosives are used for demolition. Such fire
hoses shall be connected to an approved water supply and shall
be capable of being brought to bear on post-detonation fires
anywhere on the site of the demolition operation.
SECTION 1408
OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE
PROTECTION
1408.1 Program superintendent. The owner shall designate a
person to be the Fire Prevention Program Superintendent who
shall be responsible for the fire prevention program and ensure
that it is carried out through completion of the project. The fire
prevention program superintendent shall have the authority to
enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as
necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard ser-
vice is provided, the superintendent shall be responsible for the
guard service.
1408.2 Prefire plans. The fire prevention program superinten-
dent shall develop and maintain an approved prefire plan in
cooperation with the fire chief. The fire chief and the fire code
official shall be notified of changes affecting the utilization of
information contained in such prefire plans.
1408.3 Training. Training of responsible personnel in the use
of fire protection equipment shall be the responsibility of the
fire prevention program superintendent.
1408.4 Fire protection devices. The fire prevention program
superintendent shall determine that all fire protection equip-
ment is maintained and serviced in accordance with this code.
The quantity and type of fire protection equipment shall be
approved.
1408.5 Hot work operations. The fire prevention program
superintendent shall be responsible for supervising the permit
system for hot work operations in accordance with Chapter 26.
1408.6 Impairment of fire protection systems. Impairments
to any fire protection system shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion 901.
1408.7 Temporary covering of fire protection devices. Cov-
erings placed on or over fire protection devices to protect them
from damage during construction processes shall be immedi-
ately removed upon the completion of the construction pro-
cesses in the room or area in which the devices are installed.
SECTION 1409
FIRE REPORTING
1409.1 Emergency telephone. Readily accessible emergency
telephone facilities shall be provided in an approved location at
the construction site. The street address of the construction site
and the emergency telephone number of the fire department
shall be posted adjacent to the telephone.
SECTION 1410
ACCESS FOR FIRE FIGHTING
1410.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for fire
fighting shall be provided to all construction or demolition
sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100 feet (30
480 mm) of temporary or permanent fire department connec-
tions. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or
permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under
all weather conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until
permanent fire apparatus access roads are available.
1410.2 Key boxes. Key boxes shall be provided as required by
Chapters.
SECTION 1411
MEANS OF EGRESS
[B] 1411.1 Stairways required. Where a building has been
constructed to a height greater than 50 feet (15 240 mm) or four
stories, or where an existing building exceeding 50 feet (15 240
mm) in height is altered, at least one temporary lighted stairway
shall be provided unless one or more of the permanent stair-
ways are erected as the construction progresses.
1411.2 Maintenance. Required means of egress shall be
maintained during construction and demolition, remodeling or
alterations and additions to any building.
Exception: Approved temporary means of egress systems
and facilities.
[B] 1411.3 Stairway floor number signs.Temporary stairway
floor number signs shall be provided in accordance with the
requirements of Section 1012.1.7.
SECTION 1412
WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
1412.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire
protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made avail-
able as soon as combustible material arrives on the site.
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FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
SECTION 1413
STANDPIPES
1413.1 Where required. Buildings four or more stories in
height shall be provided with not less than one standpipe for
use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed
when the progress of construction is not more than 40 feet (12
192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department
access. Such standpipe shall be provided with fire department
hose connections at accessible locations adjacent to usable
stairs. Such standpipes shall be extended as construction pro-
gresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction
having secured decking or flooring.
1413.2 Buildings being demolished. Where a building is
being demolished and a standpipe is existing within such a
building, such standpipe shall be maintained in an operable
condition so as to be available for use by the fire department.
Such standpipe shall be demolished with the building but shall
not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being
demohshed.
1413.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed
in accordance with the provisions of Section 905.
Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or perma-
nent in nature, and with or without a water supply, provided
that such standpipes comply with the requirements of Sec-
tion 905 as to capacity, outlets and materials.
SECTION 1414
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
1414.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an
automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the Inter-
national Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any por-
tion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler
system installation has been tested and approved, except as
provided in Section 105.3.3.
1414.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control
valves shall be allowed only by properly authorized personnel
and shall be accompanied by notification of duly designated
parties. When the sprinkler protection is being regularly turned
off and on to facilitate connection of newly completed seg-
ments, the sprinkler control valves shall be checked at the end
of each work period to ascertain that protection is in service.
SECTION 1416
MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT
1416.1 Conditions of use. Intemal-combustion-powered con-
struction equipment shall be used in accordance with all of the
following conditions:
1 . Equipment shall be located so that exhausts do not dis-
charge against combustible material.
2. Exhausts shall be piped to the outside of the building.
3. Equipment shall not be refueled while in operation.
4. Fuel for equipment shall be stored in an approved area
outside of the building.
SECTION 1417
SAFEGUARDING ROOFING OPERATIONS
1417.1 General. Roofing operations utilizing heat-producing
systems or other ignition sources shall be performed by a con-
tractor licensed and bonded for the type of roofing process to be
performed.
1417.2 Asphalt and tar kettles. Asphalt and tar kettles shall be
operated in accordance with Section 303.
1417.3 Fire extinguishers for roofing operations. Fire
extinguishers shall comply with Section 906. There shall be not
less than one multipurpose portable fire extinguisher with a
minimum 3- A 40-B:C rating on the roof being covered or
repaired.
SECTION 1415
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
1415.1 Where required. Structures under construction, alter-
ation or demolition shall be provided with not less than one
approved portable fire extinguisher in accordance with Section
906 and sized for not less than ordinary hazard as follows:
1 . At each stairway on all floor levels where combustible
materials have accumulated.
2. In every storage and construction shed.
3. Additional portable fire extinguishers shall be provided
where special hazards exist including, but not limited to,
the storage and use of flammable and combustible liq-
uids.
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160 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 15
FLAMMABLE FINISHES
SECTION 1501
GENERAL
1501.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to locations or areas
where any of the following activities are conducted:
1 . The application of flammable or combustible paint, var-
nish, lacquer, stain, fiberglass resins or other flammable
or combustible liquid applied by means of spray appara-
tus in continuous or intermittent processes.
2. Dip-tank operations in which articles or materials are
passed through contents of tanks, vats or containers of
flammable or combustible liquids, including coating,
finishing, treatment and similar processes.
3. The application of combustible powders when applied
by powder spray guns, electrostatic powder spray guns,
fluidized beds or electrostatic fluidized beds.
4. Floor surfacing or finishing operations in areas exceed-
ing 350 square feet (32.5 m^).
5 . The apphcation of dual-component coatings or Class I or
II liquids when applied by brush or roller in quantities
exceeding 1 gallon (4 L).
6. Spraying and dipping operations.
1501.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
SECTION 1502
DEFINITIONS
1502.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
DETEARING. A process for rapidly removing excess wet
coating material from a dipped or coated object or material by
passing it through an electrostatic field.
DIP TANK. A tank, vat or container of flammable or combus-
tible liquid in which articles or materials are immersed for the
purpose of coating, finishing, treating and similar processes.
ELECTROSTATIC FLUIDIZED BED. A container holding
powder coating material that is aerated from below so as to
form an air-supported expanded cloud of such material that is
electrically charged with a charge opposite to that of the object
to be coated. Such object is transported through the container
immediately above the charged and aerated materials in order
to be coated.
FLAMMABLE FINISHES. Material coatings in which the
material being applied is a flammable liquid, combustible liq-
uid, combustible powder or flammable or combustible gel
coating.
FLAMMABLE VAPOR AREA. An area in which the con-
centration of flammable constituents (vapor, gas, fume, mist or
dust) in air exceeds 25 percent of their lower flanMnable limit
(LFL) because of the flammable finish processes operation. It
shall include:
1 . The interior of spray booths.
2. The interior of ducts exhausting from spraying pro-
cesses.
3. Any area in the direct path of spray or any area contain-
ing dangerous quantities of air-suspended powder, com-
bustible residue, dust, deposits, vapor or mists as a result
of spraying operations.
4. The area in the vicinity of dip tanks, drain boards or asso-
ciated drying, conveying or other equipment during
operation or shutdown periods.
The fire code official is authorized to determine the extent of
the flammable vapor area, taking into consideration the mate-
rial characteristics of the flammable materials, the degree of
sustained ventilation and the nature of the operations.
FLUIDIZED BED. A container holding powder coating
material that is aerated from below so as to form an air-sup-
ported expanded cloud of such material through which the pre-
heated object to be coated is immersed and transported.
LIMITED SPRAYING SPACE. An area in which operations
for touch-up or spot painting of a surface area of 9 square feet
(0.84 m^) or less are conducted.
RESIN APPLICATION AREA. An area where reinforced
plastics are used to manufacture products by hand lay-up or
spray-fabrication methods.
ROLL COATING. The process of coating, spreading and
impregnating fabrics, paper or other materials as they are
passed directly through a tank or trough containing flammable
or combustible liquids, or over the surface of a roller revolving
partially submerged in a flammable or combustible liquid.
SPRAY BOOTH. A mechanically ventilated appliance of
varying dimensions and construction provided to enclose or
accommodate a spraying operation and to confine and limit the
escape of spray vapor and residue and to exhaust it safely.
SPRAY ROOM. A room designed to accommodate spraying
operations constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code and separated from the remainder of the build-
ing by a minimum 1-hour fire barrier.
SPRAYING SPACE. An area in which dangerous quantities
of flammable vapors or combustible residues, dusts or deposits
are present due to the operation of spraying processes. The fire
code official is authorized to define the limits of the spraying
space in any specific case.
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SECTION 1503
PROTECTION OF OPERATIONS
1503.1 General. Operations covered by this chapter shall be
protected as required by Sections 1503.2 through 1503.4.4.
1503.2 Sources of ignition. Protection against sources of igni-
tion shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1503.2.1
through 1503.2.8.
1503.2.1 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wir-
ing and equipment shall comply with this chapter and the
ICC Electrical Code.
1503.2.1.1 Flammable vapor areas. Electrical wiring
and equipment in flammable vapor areas shall be of an
explosionproof type approved for use in such hazardous
locations. Such areas shall be considered to be Class I,
Division 1 or Class H, Division 1 hazardous locations in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
1503.2.1.2 Areas subject to deposits of residues. Elec-
trical equipment, flanomable vapor areas or drying oper-
ations that are subject to splashing or dripping of liquids
shall be specifically approved for locations containing
deposits of readily ignitable residue and explosive
vapors.
Exceptions:
1 . This provision shall not apply to wiring in rigid
conduit, threaded boxes or fittings not contain-
ing taps, splices or terminal connections.
2. This provision shall not apply to electrostatic
equipment allowed by Section 1507.
In resin application areas, electrical wiring and equip-
ment that is subject to deposits of combustible residues
shall be listed for such exposure and shall be installed as
required for hazardous (classified) locations. Electrical
wiring and equipment not subject to deposits of combus-
tible residues shall be installed as required for ordinary
hazard locations.
1503.2.1.3 Areas adjacent to spray booths. Electrical
wiring and equipment located outside of, but within 5
feet (1524 mm) horizontally and 3 feet (914 mm) verti-
cally of openings in a spray booth or a spray room, shall
be approved for Class I, Division 2 or Class II, Division 2
hazardous locations, whichever is applicable.
1503.2.1.4 Areas subject to overspray deposits. Elec-
trical equipment in flanmiable vapor areas located such
that deposits of combustible residues could readily accu-
mulate thereon shall be specifically approved for loca-
tions containing deposits of readily ignitable residue and
explosive vapors in accordance with the ICC Electrical
Code.
Exceptions:
1. Wiring in rigid conduit.
2. Boxes or fittings not containing taps, splices or
terminal connections.
3. Equipment allowed by Sections 1504 and 1507
and Chapter 21.
1503.2.2 Open flames and sparks. Open flames and
spark-producing devices shall not be located in flammable
vapor areas and shall not be located within 20 feet (6096
mm) of such areas unless separated by a permanent parti-
tion.
Exception: Drying and baking apparatus complying
with Section 1504.6.1.2.
1503.2.3 Hot surfaces. Heated surfaces having a tempera-
ture sufficient to ignite vapors shall not be located in flam-
mable vapor areas. Space-heating appliances, steam pipes
or hot surfaces in a flammable vapor area shall be located
such that they are not subject to accumulation of deposits of
combustible residues.
Exception: Drying apparatus complying with Section
1504.6.1.2.
1503.2.4 Equipment enclosures. Equipment or apparatus
that is capable of producing sparks or particles of hot metal
that would fall into a flammable vapor area shall be totally
enclosed.
1503.2.5 Grounding. Metal parts of spray booths, exhaust
ducts and piping systems conveying Class I or II liquids
shall be electrically grounded in accordance with the ICC
Electrical Code. Metallic parts located in resin application
areas, including but not limited to exhaust ducts, ventilation
fans, spray application equipment, workpieces and piping,
shall be electrically grounded.
1503.2.6 Smoking prohibited. Smoking shall be prohib-
ited in flammable vapor areas and hazardous materials stor-
age rooms associated with flammable finish processes. "No
Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall be con-
spicuously posted in such areas.
1503.2.7 Welding warning signs. Welding, cutting and
similar spark-producing operations shall not be conducted
in or adjacent to flammable vapor areas or dipping or coat-
ing operations unless precautions have been taken to pro-
vide safety. Conspicuous signs with the following warning
shall be posted in the vicinity of flammable vapor areas, dip-
ping operations and paint storage rooms:
NO WELDING
THE USE OF WELDING OR CUTTING
EQUIPMENT IN OR NEAR THIS AREA
IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE OF FIRE
AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS. WELDING
AND CUTTING SHALL BE DONE ONLY
UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE
PERSON IN CHARGE.
1503.2.8 Powered industrial trucks. Powered industrial
trucks used in electrically classified areas shall be listed for
such use.
1503.3 Storage, use and handling of flammable and com-
bustible liquids. The storage, use and handling of flanmiable
and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with this section
and Chapter 34.
1503.3.1 Use. Containers supplying spray nozzles shall be
of a closed type or provided with metal covers, which are
kept closed. Containers not resting on floors shall be on
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1
noncombustible supports or suspended by wire cables. Con-
tainers supplying spray nozzles by gravity flow shall not
exceed 10 gallons (37.9 L) in capacity.
1503.3.2 Valves. Containers and piping to which a hose or
flexible connection is attached shall be provided with a
shutoff valve at the connection. Such valves shall be kept
shut when hoses are not in use.
1503.3.3 Pumped liquid supplies. Where flammable or
combustible liquids are supplied to spray nozzles by posi-
tive displacement pumps, pump discharge lines shall be
provided with an approved relief valve discharging to pump
suction or a safe detached location.
1503.3.4 Liquid transfer. Where a flammable mixture is
transferred from one portable container to another, a bond
shall be provided between the two containers. At least one
container shall be grounded. Piping systems for Class I and
II liquids shall be permanently grounded.
1503.3.5 Class I liquids as solvents. Class I Hquids used as
solvents shall be used in spray gun and equipment cleaning
machines that have been listed and approved for such pur-
pose or shall be used in spray booths or spray rooms in
accordance with Sections 1503.3.5.1 and 1503.3.5.2.
1503.3.5.1 Listed devices. Cleaning machines for spray
guns and equipment shall not be located in areas open to
the public and shall be separated from ignition sources in
accordance with their listings or by a distance of 3 feet
(914 mm), whichever is greater. The quantity of solvent
used in a machine shall not exceed the design capacity of
the machine.
1503.3.5.2 Within spray booths and spray rooms.
When solvents are used for cleaning spray nozzles and
auxiliary equipment within spray booths and spray
rooms, the ventilating equipment shall be operated dur-
ing cleaning.
1503.3.6 Class II and III liquids. Solvents used outside of
spray booths, spray rooms or listed and approved spray gun
and equipment cleaning machines shall be restricted to
Class II and III liquids.
1503.4 Operations and maintenance. Flammable vapor
areas, exhaust fan blades and exhaust ducts shall be kept free
from the accumulation of deposits of combustible residues.
Where excessive residue accumulates in such areas, spraying
operations shall be discontinued until conditions are corrected.
1503.4.1 Tools. Scrapers, spuds and other tools used for
cleaning purposes shall be constructed of nonsparking
materials.
1503.4.2 Residue. Residues removed during cleaning and
debris contaminated with residue shall be immediately
removed from the premises and properly disposed.
1503.4.3 Waste cans. Approved metal waste cans equipped
with self-closing lids shall be provided wherever rags or
waste are impregnated with finishing material. Such rags
and waste shall be deposited therein immediately after
being utilized. The contents of waste cans shall be properly
disposed of at least once daily and at the end of each shift.
1503.4.4 Solvent recycling. Solvent distillation equipment
used to recycle and clean dirty solvents shall comply with
Section 3405.4.
SECTION 1504
SPRAY FINISHING
1504.1 General. The application of flammable or combustible
liquids by means of spray apparatus in continuous or intermit-
tent processes shall be in accordance with the requirements of
Sections 1503 and 1504.
1504.2 Location of spray-finishing operations. Spray finish-
ing operations conducted in buildings used for Group A, E, I or
R occupancies shall be located in a spray room protected with
an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accor-
dance with Section 903.3 . 1 . 1 and separated vertically and hori-
zontally from other areas in accordance with the International
Building Code. In other occupancies, spray-finishing opera-
tions shall be conducted in a spray room, spray booth or spray-
ing space approved for such use.
Exceptions:
1. Automobile undercoating spray operations and
spray-on automotive lining operations conducted in
areas with approved natural or mechanical ventilation
shall be exempt from the provisions of Section 1504
when approved and where utilizing Class IIIA or IIIB
combustible liquids.
2. In buildings other than Group A, E, I or R occupan-
cies, approved limited spraying space in accordance
with Section 1504.9.
3. Resin application areas used for manufacturing of
reinforced plastics complying with Section 1509 shall
not be required to be located in a spray room, spray
booth or spraying space.
1504.3 Design and construction. Design and construction of
spray rooms, spray booths and spray spaces shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 1504.3 through 1504.3.3.1.
1504.3.1 Spray rooms. Spray rooms shall be constructed
and designed in accordance with this section and the Inter-
national Building Code, and shall comply with Sections
1504.4 through 1504.8.
1504.3.1.1 Floor. Combustible floor construction in
spray rooms shall be covered by approved,
noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where
combustible coverings, including but not limited to thin
paper or plastic and strippable coatings, are utilized over
noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning opera-
tions in spray rooms.
1504.3.2 Spray booths. The design and construction of
spray booths shall be in accordance with Sections
1504.3.2.1 through 1504.3.2.6, Sections 1504.4 through
1504.8 and NFPA 33.
1504.3.2.1 Construction. Spray booths shall be con-
structed of approved noncombustible materials. Alumi-
num shall not be used. Where walls or ceiling assemblies
are constructed of sheet metal, single-skin assemblies
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FLAMMABLE FINISHES
shall be no thinner than 0.0478 inch (18 gage) (1.2 mm)
and each sheet of double-skin assemblies shall be no
thinner than 0.0359 inch (20 gage) (0.9 mm). Structural
sections of spray booths are allowed to be sealed with
latex-based or similar caulks and sealants.
1504.3.2.2 Surfaces. The interior surfaces of spray
booths shall be smooth; shall be constructed so as to per-
mit the free passage of exhaust air from all parts of the
interior, and to facilitate washing and cleaning; and shall
be designed to confine residues within the booth. Alumi-
num shall not be used.
1504.3.2.3 Floor. Combustible floor construction in
spray booths shall be covered by approved,
noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where
combustible coverings, including but not limited to thin
paper or plastic and strippable coatings, are utilized over
noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning opera-
tions in spray booths.
1504.3.2.4 Means of egress. Means of egress shall be
provided in accordance with Chapter 10.
Exception: Means of egress doors from
premanufactured spray booths shall not be less than
30 inches (762 nmi) in width by 80 inches (2032 mm)
in height.
1504.3.2.5 Clear space. Spray booths shall be installed
so that all parts of the booth are readily accessible for
cleaning. A clear space of not less than 3 feet (914 mm)
shall be maintained on all sides of the spray booth. This
clear space shall be kept free of any storage or combusti-
ble construction.
Exceptions:
1. This requirement shall not prohibit locating a
spray booth closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to or
directly against an interior partition, wall or
floor/ceiling assembly that has a fire-resistance
rating of not less than 1 hour, provided the spray
booth can be adequately maintained and
cleaned.
2. This requirement shall not prohibit locating a
spray booth closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to an
exterior wall or a roof assembly, provided the
wall or roof is constructed of noncombustible
material and the spray booth can be adequately
maintained and cleaned.
1504.3.2.6 Size. The aggregate area of spray booths in a
building shall not exceed the lesser of 10 percent of the
area of any floor of a building or the basic area allowed
for a Group H-2 occupancy without area increases, as set
forth in the International Building Code. The area of an
individual spray booth in a building shall not exceed the
lesser of the aggregate size limit or 1,500 square feet
(139 m2).
Exception: One individual booth not exceeding 500
square feet (46 m^).
1504.3.3 Spraying spaces. Spraying spaces shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code and Sections 1504.3.3.1 and 1504.4
and through 1504.8 of this code.
1504.3.3.1 Floor. Combustible floor construction in
spraying spaces shall be covered by approved, noncom-
bustible nonsparking material, except where combusti-
ble coverings, such as thin paper or plastic and strippable
coatings, are utilized over noncombustible materials to
facilitate cleaning operations in spraying spaces.
1504.4 Fire protection. Spray booths and spray rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system
complying with Chapter 9. Protection shall also extend to
exhaust plenums, exhaust ducts and both sides of dry filters
when such filters are used.
1504.4.1 Fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers
complying with Section 906 shall be provided for spraying
areas in accordance with the requirements for an extra
(high) hazard occupancy.
1504.5 Housekeeping, maintenance and storage of hazard-
ous materials. Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of
hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections
1503.3, 1503.4, 1504.5.1 and 1504.5.2.
1504.5.1 Different coatings. Spray booths, spray rooms
and spraying spaces shall not be alternately utilized for dif-
ferent types of coating materials where the combination of
materials is conducive to spontaneous ignition, unless all
deposits of one material are removed from the booth, room
or space and exhaust ducts prior to spraying with a different
material.
1504.5.2 Protection of sprinklers. Automatic sprinklers
installed in flammable vapor areas shall be protected from
the accumulation of residue from spraying operations in an
approved manner. Bags used as a protective covering shall
be 0.003-inch-thick (0.076 mm) polyethylene or cellophane
or shall be thin paper. Automatic sprinklers contaminated
by overspray particles shall be replaced with new automatic
sprinklers.
1504.6 Sources of ignition. Control of sources of ignition shall
be in accordance with Sections 1503.2 and 1504.6.1 through
1504.6.2.4.
1504.6.1 Drying operations. Spray booths and spray
rooms shall not be alternately used for the purpose of drying
by arrangements or methods that could cause an increase in
the surface temperature of the spray booth or spray room
except in accordance with Sections 1504.6.1.1 and
1504.6.1.2. Except as specifically provided in this section,
drying or baking units utilizing a heating system having
open flames or that are capable of producing sparks shall not
be installed in a flammable vapor areas.
1504.6.1.1 Spraying procedure. The spraying proce-
dure shall use low- volume spray application.
1504.6.1.2 Drying apparatus. Fixed drying apparatus
shall comply with this chapter and the applicable provi-
sions of Chapter 21. When recirculation ventilation is
provided in accordance with Section 1504.7.2, the heat-
ing system shall not be within the recirculation air path.
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•
1504.6.1.2.1 Interlocks. The spraying apparatus,
drying apparatus and ventilating system for the spray
booth or spray room shall be equipped with interlocks
arranged to:
1. Prevent operation of the spraying apparatus
while drying operations are in progress.
2. Purge spray vapors from the spray booth or
spray room for a period of not less than 3 min-
utes before the drying apparatus is rendered
operable.
3. Have the ventilating system maintain a safe
atmosphere within the spray booth or spray
room during the drying process and automati-
cally shut off drying apparatus in the event of a
failure of the ventilating system.
4. Shut off the drying apparatus automatically if
the air temperature within the booth exceeds
200°F (93°C).
1504.6.1.2.2 Portable infrared apparatus. When a
portable infrared drying apparatus is used, electrical
wiring and portable infrared drying equipment shall
comply with the ICC Electrical Code. Electrical
equipment located within 1 8 inches (457 mm) of floor
level shall be approved for Class I, Division 2 hazard-
ous locations. Metallic parts of drying apparatus shall
be electrically bonded and grounded. During spray-
ing operations, portable drying apparatus and electri-
cal connections and wiring thereto shall not be located
within spray booths, spray rooms or other areas where
spray residue would be deposited thereon.
1504.6.2 Illumination. Where spraying spaces, spray
rooms or spray booths are illuminated through glass panels
or other transparent materials, only fixed luminaires shall be
utilized as a source of illumination.
1504.6.2.1 Glass panels. Panels for luminaires or for
observation shall be of heat-treated glass, wired glass or
hammered wire glass and shall be sealed to confine
vapors, mists, residues, dusts and deposits to the flamma-
ble vapor area. Panels for luminaires shall be separated
from the luminaire to prevent the surface temperature of
the panel from exceeding 200°F (93°C).
1504.6.2.2 Exterior luminaires. Luminaires attached to
the walls or ceilings of a flammable vapor area, but out-
side of any classified area and separated from the flam-
mable vapor areas by vapor-tight glass panels, shall be
suitable for use in ordinary hazard locations. Such
luminaires shall be serviced from outside the flammable
vapor areas.
1504.6.2.3 Integral luminaires. Luminaires that are an
integral part of the walls or ceiling of a flancimable vapor
area are allowed to be separated from the flammable
vapor area by glass panels that are an integral part of the
luminaire. Such luminaires shall be listed for use in Class
I, Division 2 or Class II, Division 2 locations, whichever
is applicable, and also shall be suitable for accumulations
of deposits of combustible residues. Such luminaires are
allowed to be serviced from inside the flammable vapor
area.
1504.6.2.4 Portable electric lamps. Portable electric
lamps shall not be used in flammable vapor areas during
spraying operations. Portable electric lamps used during
cleaning or repairing operations shall be of a type
approved for hazardous locations.
1504.7 Ventilation. Mechanical ventilation of flammable
vapor areas shall be provided in accordance with Section 510
of the International Mechanical Code.
1504.7.1 Operation. Mechanical ventilation shall be kept
in operation at all times while spraying operations are being
conducted and for a sufficient time thereafter to allow
vapors from drying coated articles and finishing material
residue to be exhausted. Spraying equipment shall be inter-
locked with the ventilation of the flammable vapor areas
such that spraying operations cannot be conducted unless
the ventilation system is in operation.
1504.7.2 Recirculation. Air exhausted from spraying oper-
ations shall not be recirculated.
Exceptions:
1 . Air exhausted from spraying operations is allowed
to be recirculated as makeup air for unmanned
spray operations, provided that:
1.1. The solid particulate has been removed.
1.2. The vapor concentration is less than 25
percent of the LFL.
1.3. Approved equipment is used to monitor
the vapor concentration.
1.4. When the vapor concentration exceeds 25
percent of the LFL, the following shall
occur:
a. An alarm shall sound; and
b. Spray operations shall automatically
shut down.
1.5. In the event of shutdown of the vapor con-
centration monitor, 100 percent of the air
volume specified in Section 510 of the
International Mechanical Code is auto-
matically exhausted.
2. Air exhausted from spraying operations is allowed
to be recirculated as makeup air to manned spray-
ing operations where all of the conditions provided
in Exception 1 are included in the installation and
documents have been prepared to show that the
installation does not pose a life safety hazard to
personnel inside the spray booth, spraying space or
spray room.
1504.7.3 Air velocity. Ventilation systems shall be
designed, installed and maintained such that the average air
velocity over the open face of the booth, or booth cross sec-
tion in the direction of airflow during spraying operations,
shall not be less than 100 feet per minute (0.51 m/s).
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1504.7.4 Ventilation obstruction. Articles being sprayed
shall be positioned in a manner that does not obstruct collec-
tion of overspray.
1504.7.5 Independent ducts. Each spray booth and spray
room shall have an independent exhaust duct system dis-
charging to the outside.
Exceptions:
1 . Multiple spray booths having a combined frontal
area of 1 8 square feet (1 .67 m^) or less are allowed
to have a coimnon exhaust when identical spray
finishing material is used in each booth. If more
than one fan serves one booth, fans shall be inter-
connected such that all fans will operate simulta-
neously.
2. Where treatment of exhaust is necessary for air
pollution control or for energy conservation, ducts
shall be allowed to be manifolded if all of the fol-
lowing conditions are met:
2. 1 . The sprayed materials used are compatible
and will not react or cause ignition of the
residue in the ducts.
2.2. Nitrocellulose-based finishing material
shall not be used.
2.3. A filtering system shall be provided to
reduce the amount of overspray carried
into the duct manifold.
2.4. Automatic sprinkler protection shall be
provided at the junction of each booth
exhaust with the manifold, in addition to
the protection required by this chapter.
1504.7.6 Termination point. The termination point for
exhaust ducts discharging to the atmosphere shall not be
less than the following distances:
1. Ducts conveying explosive or flammable vapors,
fumes or dusts: 30 feet (9144 nran) from the property
line; 10 feet (3048 mm) from openings into the build-
ing; 6 feet (1829 mm) from exterior walls and roofs;
30 feet (9144 mm) from combustible walls or open-
ings into the building that are in the direction of the
exhaust discharge; 10 feet (3048 nun) above adjoin-
ing grade.
2. Other product-conveying outlets: 10 feet (3048 mm)
from the property line; 3 feet (914 mm) from exterior
walls and roofs; 10 feet (3048 mm) from openings
into the building; 10 feet (3048 mm) above adjoining
grade.
1504.7.7 Fan motors and belts. Electric motors driving
exhaust fans shall not be placed inside booths or ducts. Fan
rotating elements shall be nonferrous or nonsparking or the
casing shall consist of, or be lined with, such material. Belts
shall not enter the duct or booth unless the belt and pulley
within the duct are tightly enclosed.
1504.7.8 Filters. Air intake filters that are part of a wall or
ceiling assembly shall be listed as Class I or II in accordance
with UL 900. Exhaust filters shall be required.
1504.7.8.1 Supports. Supports and holders for filters
shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.
1504.7.8.2 Attachment. Overspray collection filters
shall be readily removable and accessible for cleaning or
replacement.
1504.7.8.3 Maintaining air velocity. Visible gauges,
audible alarms or pressure-activated devices shall be
installed to indicate or ensure that the required air veloc-
ity is maintained.
1504.7.8.4 Filter rolls. Spray booths equipped with a fil-
ter roll that is automatically advanced when the air veloc-
ity is reduced to less than 100 feet per minute (0.51 m/s)
shall be arranged to shut down the spraying operation if
the filter roll fails to advance automatically.
1504.7.8.5 Filter disposal. Discarded filter pads shall be
immediately removed to a safe, detached location or
placed in a noncombustible container with a tight-fitting
lid and disposed of properly.
1504.7.8.6 Spontaneous ignition. Spray booths using
dry filters shall not be used for spraying materials that are
highly susceptible to spontaneous heating and ignition.
Filters shall be changed prior to spraying materials that
could react with other materials previously collected. An
example of a potentially reactive combination includes
lacquer when combined with varnishes, stains or prim-
ers.
1504.7.8.7 Waterwash spray booths. Waterwash spray
booths shall be of an approved design so as to prevent
excessive accumulation of deposits in ducts and residue
at duct outlets. Such booths shall be arranged so that air
and overspray are drawn through a continuously flowing
water curtain before entering an exhaust duct to the
building exterior.
1504.8 Interlocks. Interlocks for spray application finishes
shall be in accordance with Sections 1504.8 through 1504.8.2.
1504.8.1 Automated spray application operations.
Where protecting automated spray application operations,
automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be equipped
with an approved interlock feature that will, upon discharge
of the system, automatically stop the spraying operations
and workpiece conveyors into and out of the flammable
vapor areas. Where the building is equipped with a fire
alarm system, discharge of the automatic fire-extinguishing
system shall also activate the building alarm notification
appliances.
1504.8.1.1 Alarm station. A manual fire alarm and
emergency system shutdown station shall be installed to
serve each flammable vapor area. When activated, the
station shall accomplish the functions indicated in Sec-
tion 1504.8.1.
1504.8.1.2 Alarm station location. At least one manual
fire alarm and emergency system shutdown station shall
be readily accessible to operating personnel. Where
access to this station is likely to involve exposure to dan-
ger, an additional station shall be located adjacent to an
exit from the area.
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1504.8.2 Ventilation interlock prohibited. Air makeup
and flammable vapor area exhaust systems shall not be
interlocked with the fire alarm system and shall remain in
operation during a fire alarm condition.
Exception: Where the type of fire-extinguishing system
used requires such ventilation to be discontinued, air
makeup and exhaust systems shall shut down and damp-
ers shall close.
1504.9 Limited spraying spaces. Limited spraying spaces
shall comply with Sections 1504.9.1 through 1504.9.4.
1504.9.1 Job size. The aggregate surface area to be sprayed
shall not exceed 9 square feet (0.84 m^).
1504.9.2 Frequency. Spraying operations shall not be of a
continuous nature.
1504.9.3 Ventilation. Positive mechanical ventilation pro-
viding a minimum of six complete air changes per hour shall
be installed. Such system shall meet the requirements of this
code for handling flammable vapor areas. Explosion vent-
ing is not required.
1504.9.4 Electrical wiring. Electrical wiring within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the floor and 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally
of the limited spraying space shall be designed for Class I,
Division 2 locations in accordance with the ICC Electrical
Code.
SECTION 1505
DIPPING OPERATIONS
1505.1 General. Dip-tank operations shall comply with the
requirements of Section 1503 and this section.
1505.2 Location of dip-tank operations. Dip-tank operations
conducted in buildings used for Group A, I or R occupancies
shall be located in a room designed for that purpose, equipped
with an approved automatic sprinkler system and separated
vertically and horizontally from other areas in accordance with
the International Building Code.
1505.3 Construction of dip tanks. Dip tanks shall be con-
structed in accordance with Sections 1505.3.1 through
1505.3.4.3 and NFPA 34. Dip tanks, including drain boards,
shall be constructed of noncombustible material and their sup-
ports shall be of heavy metal, reinforced concrete or masonry.
1505.3.1 Overflow. Dip tanks greater than 150 gallons (568
L) in capacity or 10 square feet (0.93 m^) in liquid surface
area shall be equipped with a trapped overflow pipe leading
to an approved location outside the building. The bottom of
the overflow connection shall not be less than 6 inches (152
mm) below the top of the tank.
1505.3.2 Bottom drains. Dip tanks greater than 500 gallons
(1893 L) in hquid capacity shall be equipped with bottom
drains that are arranged to automatically and manually drain
the tank quickly in the event of a fire unless the viscosity of
the liquid at normal atmospheric temperature makes this
impractical. Manual operation shall be from a safe, accessi-
ble location. Where gravity flow is not practicable, auto-
matic pumps shall be provided. Such drains shall be trapped
and discharged to a closed, vented salvage tank or to an
approved outside location.
Exception: Dip tanks containing Class IIIB combustible
liquids where the liquids are not heated above room tem-
perature and the process area is protected by automatic
sprinklers.
1505.3.3 Dipping liquid temperature control. Protection
against the accumulation of vapors, self-ignition and exces-
sively high temperatures shall be provided for dipping liq-
uids that are heated directly or heated by the surfaces of the
object being dipped.
1505.3.4 Dip-tank covers. Dip-tank covers allowed by
Section 1505.4.1 shall be capable of manual operation and
shall be automatic closing by approved automatic-closing
devices designed to operate in the event of a fire.
1505.3.4.1 Construction. Covers shall be constructed of
noncombustible material or be of a tin-clad type with
enclosing metal applied with locked joints.
1505.3.4.2 Supports. Chain or wire rope shall be uti-
lized for cover supports or operating mechanisms.
1505.3.4.3 Closed covers. Covers shall be kept closed
when tanks are not in use.
1505.4 Fire protection. Dip-tank operations shall be protected
in accordance with Sections 1505.4.1 through 1504.4.2.
1505.4.1 Fixed fire-extinguishing equipment. An
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system or dip-tank
cover in accordance with Section 1505.7 shall be provided
for the following dip tanks:
1. Dip tanks less than 150 gallons (568 L) in capacity or
10 square feet (0.93 m^) in liquid surface area.
2. Dip tanks containing a liquid with a flash point below
1 10°F (43 °C) used in such manner that the liquid tem-
perature could equal or be greater than its flash point
from artificial or natural causes, and having both a
capacity of more than 10 gallons (37.9 L) and a liquid
surface area of more than 4 square feet (0.37 m^).
1505.4.1.1 Fire-extinguishing system. An approved
automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be provided
for dip tanks with a 150-gallon (568 L) or more capacity
or 10 square feet (0.93 m^) or larger in a liquid surface
area. Fire-extinguishing system design shall be in accor-
dance with NFPA 34.
1505.4.2 Portable fire extinguishers. Areas in the vicinity
of dip tanks shall be provided with portable fire
extinguishers complying with Section 906 and suitable for
flammable and combustible liquid fires as specified for
extra (high) hazard occupancies.
1505.5 Housekeeping, maintenance and storage of hazard-
ous materials. Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of
hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections
1503.3 and 1503.4.
1505.6 Sources of ignition. Control of sources of ignition shall
be in accordance with Section 1503.2.
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1505.7 Ventilation of flammable vapor areas. Flammable
vapor areas shall be provided with mechanical ventilation ade-
quate to prevent the dangerous accumulation of vapors.
Required ventilation systems shall be arranged such that the
failure of any ventilating fan shall automatically stop the dip-
ping conveyor system.
1505.8 Conveyor interlock. Dip tanks utilizing a conveyor
system shall be arranged such that in the event of a fire, the con-
veyor system shall automatically cease motion and the required
tank bottom drains shall open.
1505.9 Hardening and tempering tanks. Hardening and tem-
pering tanks shall comply with Sections 1505.3 through
1505.3.3, 1505.4.2 and 1505.8 but shall be exempt from other
provisions of Section 1505.
1505.9.1 Location. Tanks shall be located as far as practical
from furnaces and shall not be located on or near combusti-
ble floors.
1505.9.2 Hoods. Tanks shall be provided with a
noncombustible hood and vent or other approved venting
means, terminating outside of the structure to serve as a vent
in case of a fire. Such vent ducts shall be treated as flues and
proper clearances shall be maintained from combustible
materials.
1505.9.3 Alarms. Tanks shall be equipped with a high-tem-
perature limit switch arranged to sound an alarm when the
temperature of the quenching medium reaches 50°F (10°C)
below the flash point.
1505.9.4 Fire protection. Hardening and tempering tanks
greater than 500 gallons (1893 L) in capacity or 25 square
feet (2.3 m^) in liquid surface area shall be protected by an
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying
with Chapter 9.
1505.9.5 Use of air pressure. Air under pressure shall not
be used to fill or agitate oil in tanks.
1505.10 Flow-coating operations. Flow-coating operations
shall comply with the requirements for dip tanks. The area of
the sump and any areas on which paint flows shall be consid-
ered to be the area of a dip tank.
1505.10.1 Paint supply. Paint shall be supplied by a gravity
tank not exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) in capacity or by direct
low-pressure pumps arranged to shut down automatically in
case of a fire by means of approved heat-actuated devices.
1505.11 Roll-coating operations. Roll-coating operations
shall comply with Section 1505.10. In roll-coating operations
utilizing flammable or combustible liquids, sparks from static
electricity shall be prevented by electrically bonding and
grounding all metallic rotating and other parts of machinery
and equipment and by the installation of static collectors, or by
maintaining a conductive atmosphere such as a high relative
humidity.
SECTION 1506
POWDER COATING
1506.1 General. Operations using finely ground particles of
protective finishing material applied in dry powder form by a
fluidized bed, an electrostatic fluidized bed, powder spray guns
or electrostatic powder spray guns shall comply with this
section. In addition to Section 1506, Section 1507 shall apply
to fixed electrostatic equipment used in powder coating opera-
tions.
1506.2 Location. Powder coating operations shall be con-
ducted in enclosed rooms constructed and protected in accor-
dance with Section 1506.
1506.3 Construction of powder coating rooms and booths.
Powder coating rooms and booths shall be constructed of
noncombustible materials, enclosed powder coating facilities
that are ventilated or ventilated spray booths complying with
Section 1504.3.2.
Exception: Listed spray-booth assemblies that are con-
structed of other materials shall be allowed.
1506.4 Fire protection. Areas used for powder coating shall
be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing sys-
tem complying with Chapter 9.
1506.4.1 Additional protection for fixed systems. Auto-
mated powder application equipment shall be protected by
the installation of an approved, supervised flame detection
apparatus that shall react to the presence of flame within 0.5
second and shall accomplish all of the following:
1. Shutting down of energy supplies (electrical and
compressed air) to conveyor, ventilation, application,
transfer and powder collection equipment.
2. Closing of segregation dampers in associated
ductwork to interrupt airflow from application equip-
ment to powder collectors.
3. Activation of an alarm that is audible throughout the
powder coating room or booth.
1506.4.2 Fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers
complying with Section 906 shall be provided for areas used
for powder coating in accordance with the requirements for
an extra hazard occupancy.
1506.5 Operation and maintenance. Powder coating areas
shall be kept free from the accumulation of powder coating
dusts, including horizontal surfaces such as ledges, beams,
pipes, hoods, booths and floors.
1506.5.1 Cleaning. Surfaces shall be cleaned in such a man-
ner so as to avoid scattering dusts to other places or creating
dust clouds. Vacuum sweeping equipment shall be of a type
approved for use in hazardous locations.
1506.6 Sources of ignition. Control of sources of ignition shall
be in accordance with Sections 1503.2 and 1506.6.1 through
1506.6.4.
1506.6.1 Drying, curing and fusion equipment. Drying,
curing and fusion equipment shall comply with Chapter 2 1 .
1506.6.2 Spark-producing metals. Iron or spark-produc-
ing metals shall be prevented from being introduced into the
powders being applied by magnetic separators, filter- type
separators or by other approved means.
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1506.6.3 Preheated parts. When parts are heated prior to
coating, the temperature of the parts shall not exceed the
ignition temperature of the powder to be used.
1506.6.4 Grounding and bonding. Precautions shall be
taken to minimize the possibility of ignition by static electri-
cal sparks through static bonding and grounding, where
possible, of powder transport, application and recovery
equipment.
1506.7 Ventilation. Exhaust ventilation shall be sufficient to
maintain the atmosphere below one-half the minimum explo-
sive concentration for the material being applied. Nondepos-
ited, air-suspended powders shall be removed through exhaust
ducts to the powder recovery system.
SECTION 1507
ELECTROSTATIC APPARATUS
1507.1 General. Electrostatic apparatus and devices used in
connection with paint- spraying and paint-detearing operations
shall be of an approved type.
1507.2 Location and clear space. A space of at least twice the
sparking distance shall be maintained between goods being
painted or deteared and electrodes, electrostatic atomizing
heads or conductors. A sign stating the sparking distance shall
be conspicuously posted near the assembly.
1507.3 Construction of equipment. Electrodes and elec-
trostatic atomizing heads shall be of approved construction,
rigidly supported in permanent locations and effectively insu-
lated from ground. Insulators shall be nonporous and noncom-
bustible.
1507.3.1 Barriers. Booths, fencing, railings or guards shall
be placed about the equipment such that either by their loca-
tion or character, or both, isolation of the process is main-
tained from plant storage and personnel. Railings, fencing
and guards shall be of conductive material, adequately
grounded and shall be at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from pro-
cessing equipment.
1507.4 Fire protection. Areas used for electrostatic spray fin-
ishing with fixed equipment shall be protected with an
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with
Chapter 9 and Section 1507.4.1.
1507.4.1 Protection for automated liquid electrostatic
spray application equipment. Automated liquid electro-
static spray application equipment shall be protected by the
installation of an approved, supervised flame detection
apparatus that shall, in the event of ignition, react to the
presence of flame within 0.5 second and shall accomplish
all of the following:
1 . Activation of a local alarm in the vicinity of the spray-
ing operation and activation of the building alarm sys-
tem, if such a system is provided.
2. Shutting down of the coating material delivery sys-
tem.
3. Termination of all spray application operations.
4. Stopping of conveyors into and out of the flammable
vapor areas.
5. Disconnection of power to the high- voltage elements
in the tlanunable vapor areas and disconnection of
power to the system.
1507.5 Housekeeping, maintenance and storage of hazard-
ous materials. Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of
hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections
1503.3, 1503.4 and Sections 1507.5.1 and 507.5.2.
1507.5.1 Maintenance. Insulators shall be kept clean and
dry. Drip plates and screens subject to paint deposits shall be
removable and taken to a safe place for cleaning.
1507.5.2 Signs. Signs shall be posted to provide the follow-
ing information:
1 . Designate the process zone as dangerous with respect
to fire and accident.
2. Identify the grounding requirements for all electri-
cally conductive objects in the flammable vapor area,
including persons.
3. Restrict access to qualified personnel only.
1507.6 Sources of ignition. Transformers, power packs, con-
trol apparatus and all other electrical portions of the equipment,
except high-voltage grids and electrostatic atomizing heads
and connections, shall be located outside of the flammable
vapor areas or shall comply with Section 1503.2.
1507.7 Ventilation. The flammable vapor area shall be venti-
lated in accordance with Section 1504.7.
1507.8 Emergency shutdown. Electrostatic apparatus shall be
equipped with automatic controls operating without time delay
to disconnect the power supply to the high- voltage transformer
and signal the operator under any of the following conditions:
1 . Stoppage of ventilating fans or failure of ventilating
equipment from any cause.
2. Stoppage of the conveyor carrying articles past the
high- voltage grid.
3 . Occurrence of a ground or an imminent ground at any
point of the high- voltage system.
4. Reduction of clearance below that required in Section
1507.2.
1507.9 Ventilation interlock. Hand electrostatic equipment
shall be interlocked with the ventilation system for the spraying
area so that the equipment cannot be operated unless the venti-
lating system is in operation.
SECTION 1508
ORGANIC PEROXIDES AND
DUAL-COMPONENT COATINGS
1508.1 General. Spraying operations involving the use of
organic peroxides and other dual-component coatings shall be
in accordance with the requirements of Section 1503 and this
section.
1508.2 Use of organic peroxide coatings. Spraying opera-
tions involving the use of organic peroxides and other
dual-component coatings shall be conducted in approved
sprinklered spray booths complying with Section 1504.3.2.
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1508.3 Equipment. Spray guns and related handling equip-
ment used with organic peroxides shall be of a type manufac-
tured for such use.
1508.3.1 Pressure tanks. Separate pressure vessels and
inserts specifically for the application shall be used for the
resin and for the organic peroxide, and shall not be inter-
changed. Organic peroxide pressure tank inserts shall be
constructed of stainless steel or polyethylene.
1508.4 Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of haz-
ardous materials. Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and
use of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections
1503.3 and 1503.4 and Sections 1508.4.1 through 1508.4.7.
1508.4.1 Contamination prevention. Organic peroxide
initiators shall not be contaminated with foreign substances.
1508.4.2 Spilled material. Spilled organic peroxides shall
be promptly removed so there are no residues. Spilled mate-
rial absorbed by using a noncombustible absorbent shall be
promptly disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendation.
1508.4.3 Residue control. Materials shall not be contami-
nated by dusts and overspray residues resulting from the
sanding or spraying of finishing materials containing
organic peroxides.
1508.4.4 Handling. Handling of organic peroxides shall be
conducted in a manner that avoids shock and friction that
produces decomposition and violent reaction hazards.
1508.4.5 Mixing. Organic peroxides shall not be mixed
directly with accelerators or promoters.
1508.4.6 Personnel qualifications. Personnel working
with organic peroxides and dual-component coatings shall
be specifically trained to work with these materials.
1508.4.7 Storage. The storage of organic peroxides shall
comply with Chapter 39.
1508.5 Sources of ignition. Only nonsparking tools shall be
used in areas where organic peroxides are stored, mixed or
applied.
SECTION 1509
INDOOR MANUFACTURING OF
REINFORCED PLASTICS
1509.1 General. Indoor manufacturing processes involving
spray or hand application of reinforced plastics and using more
than 5 gallons (19 L) of resin in a 24-hour period shall be in
accordance with this section.
1509.2 Resin application equipment. Equipment used for
spray application of resin shall be installed and used in accor-
dance with Sections 1508 and 1509.
1509.3 Fire protection. Resin application areas shall be pro-
tected by an automatic sprinkler system. The sprinkler system
design shall not be less than that required for Ordinary Hazard,
Group 2, with a minimum design area of 3,000 square feet (279
m^). Where the materials or storage arrangements are required
by other regulations to be provided with a higher level of sprin-
kler system protection, the higher level of sprinkler system
protection shall be provided.
1509.4 Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of haz-
ardous materials. Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and
use of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections
1503.3 and 1503.4 and Sections 1509.4.1 through 1509.4.3.
1509.4.1 Handling of excess catalyzed resin. A
noncombustible, open-top container shall be provided for
disposal of excess catalyzed resin. Excess catalyzed resin
shall be drained into the container while still in the liquid
state. Enough water shall be provided in the container to
maintain a minimum 2-inch (5 1 mm) water layer over the
contained resin.
1509.4.2 Control of overchop. In areas where chopper
guns are used, exposed wall and floor surfaces shall be cov-
ered with paper, polyethylene film or other approved mate-
rial to allow for removal of overchop. Overchop shall be
allowed to cure for not less than 4 hours prior to removal.
1509.4.2.1 Disposal. Following removal, used wall and
floor covering materials required by Section 1509.4.2
shall be placed in a noncombustible container and
removed from the facility.
1509.4.3 Storage and use of hazardous materials. Stor-
age and use of organic peroxides shall be in accordance with
Section 1508 and Chapter 39. Storage and use of flammable
and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter
34. Storage and use of unstable (reactive) materials shall be
in accordance with Chapter 43.
1509.5 Sources of ignition in resin application areas.
Sources of ignition in resin application areas shall comply with
Section 1503.2.
1509.6 Ventilation. Mechanical ventilation shall be provided
throughout resin application areas in accordance with Section
1504.7. The ventilation rate shall be adequate to maintain the
concentration of flammable vapors in the resin application area
at or below 25 percent of the LFL.
Exception: Mechanical ventilation is not required for
buildings that have 75 percent of the perimeter unenclosed.
1509.6.1 Local ventilation. Local ventilation shall be pro-
vided inside of workpieces where personnel will be under or
inside of the workpiece.
SECTION 1510
FLOOR SURFACING AND FINISHING OPERATIONS
1510.1 Scope. Floor surfacing and finishing operations
exceeding 350 square feet (33 m^) and using Class I or II liquids
shall comply with Sections 1510.2 through 1510.5.
1510.2 Mechanical system operation. Heating, ventilation
and air-conditioning systems shall not be operated during
resurfacing or refinishing operations or within 4 hours of the
application of flammable or combustible liquids.
1510.3 Business operation. Floor surfacing and finishing
operations shall not be conducted while an establishment is
open to the public.
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FLAMMABLE FINISHES
1510.4 Ignition sources. The power shall be shut down to all
electrical sources of ignition within the flammable vapor area,
unless those devices are classified for use in Class I, Division 1
hazardous locations.
1510.5 Ventilation. To prevent the accumulation of flammable
vapors, mechanical ventilation at a minimum rate of 1 cubic
foot per minute per square foot [0.00508 m^ /(s • m^)] of area
being finished shall be provided. Such exhaust shall be by
approved temporary or portable means. Vapors shall be
exhausted to the exterior of the building.
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CHAPTER 16
FRUIT AND CROP RIPENING
SECTION 1601
GENERAL
1601.1 Scope. Ripening processes where ethylene gas is intro-
duced into a room to promote the ripening of fruits, vegetables
and other crops shall comply with this chapter.
Exception: Mixtures of ethylene and one or more inert
gases in concentrations which prevent the gas from reaching
greater than 25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL)
when released to the atmosphere.
1601.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
1601.3 Ethylene generators. Approved ethylene generators
shall be operated and maintained in accordance with Section
1606.
1604.5 Heating. Heating shall be by indirect means utilizing
low-pressure steam, hot water, or warm air.
Exception: Electric or fuel-fired heaters approved for use in
hazardous (classified) locations which are installed and
operated in accordance with the applicable provisions of the
ICC Electrical Code, the International Mechanical Code or
the International Fuel Gas Code.
SECTION 1605
COMBUSTIBLE WASTE
1605.1 Housekeeping. Empty boxes, cartons, pallets and other
combustible waste shall be removed from ripening rooms or
enclosures and disposed of at regular intervals in accordance
with Chapter 3.
SECTION 1602
DEFINITIONS
1602.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 1603
ETHYLENE GAS
1603.1 Location. Ethylene gas shall be discharged only into
approved rooms or enclosures designed and constructed for
this purpose.
1603.2 Dispensing. Valves controlling discharge of ethylene
shall provide positive and fail-closed control of flow and shall
be set to limit the concentration of gas in air below 1,000 parts
per million (ppm).
SECTION 1604
SOURCES OF IGNITION
1604.1 Ignition prevention. Sources of ignition shall be con-
trolled or protected in accordance with this section and Chapter
3.
1604.2 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring
I and equipment, including luminaires, shall be approved for use
in Class I, Division 2, Group C hazardous (classified) loca-
tions.
1604.3 Static electricity. Containers, piping and equipment
used to dispense ethylene shall be bonded and grounded to pre-
vent the discharge of static sparks or arcs.
1604.4 Lighting. Lighting shall be by approved electric lamps
or luminaires only.
SECTION 1606
ETHYLENE GENERATORS
1606.1 Ethylene generators. Ethylene generators shall be
listed and labeled by an approved testing laboratory, approved
by the fire code official and used only in approved rooms in
accordance with the ethylene generator manufacturer's
instructions. The listing evaluation shall include documenta-
tion that the concentration of ethylene gas does not exceed 25
percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL).
1606.2 Ethylene generator rooms. Ethylene generators shall
be used in rooms having a volume of not less than 1,000 cubic
feet (28 m^). Rooms shall have air circulation to ensure even
distribution of ethylene gas and shall be free from sparks, open
flames or other ignition sources.
SECTION 1607
WARNING SIGNS
1607.1 When required. Approved warning signs indicating
the danger involved and necessary precautions shall be posted
on all doors and entrances to the premises.
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CHAPTER 17
FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING
SECTION 1701
GENERAL
1701.1 Scope. Fumigation and thennal insecticidal fogging
operations within structures shall comply with this chapter.
1701.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 1702
DEFINITIONS
1702.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
FUMIGANT. A substance which by itself or in combination
with any other substance emits or liberates a gas, fume or vapor
utilized for the destruction or control of insects, fungi, vermin,
germs, rats or other pests, and shall be distinguished from
insecticides and disinfectants which are essentially effective in
the solid or liquid phases. Examples are methyl bromide, ethyl-
ene dibromide, hydrogen cyanide, carbon disulfide and
sulfuryl fluoride.
FUMIGATION. The utilization within an enclosed space of a
fumigant in concentrations that are hazardous or acutely toxic
to humans.
THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING. The utilization
of insecticidal liquids passed through thermal fog-generating
units where, by means of heat, pressure and turbulence, such
liquids are transformed and discharged in the form of fog or
mist blown into an area to be treated.
SECTION 1703
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
1703.1 General. Structures in which fumigation and thermal
insecticidal fogging operations are conducted shall comply
with the fire protection and safety requirements of Sections
1703.2 through 1703.7.
1703.2 Sources of ignition. Fires, open flames and similar
sources of ignition shall be eliminated from the space under
fumigation or thermal insecticidal fogging. Heating, where
needed, shall be of an approved type.
1703.2.1 Electricity. Electricity shall be shut off.
Exception: Circulating fans that have been specifically
designed for utilization in hazardous atmospheres and
installed in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
1703.3 Notification. The fire code official and fire chief shall
be notified in writing at least 24 hours before the structure is to
be closed in connection with the utilization of any toxic or
flammable fumigant. Notification shall give the location of the
enclosed space to be fumigated or fogged, the occupancy, the
fumigants or insecticides to be utilized, the person or persons
responsible for the operation, and the date and time at which
the operation will begin. Notice of any fumigation or thermal
insecticidal fogging shall be served with sufficient advance
notice to the occupants of the enclosed space involved to enable
the occupants to evacuate the premises.
1703.3.1 Warning signs. Approved warning signs indicat-
ing the danger, type of chemical involved and necessary pre-
cautions shall be posted on all doors and entrances to the
premises and upon all gangplanks and ladders from the
deck, pier or land to the ship. Such notices shall be printed in
red ink on a white background. Letters in the headlines shall
be at least 2 inches (5 1 mm) in height and shall state the date
and time of the operation, the name and address of the per-
son, the name of the operator in charge, and a warning stat-
ing that the occupied premises shall be vacated at least 1
hour before the operation begins and shall not be reentered
until the danger signs have been removed by the proper
authorities.
1703.3.2 Breathing apparatus. Persons engaged in the
business of fumigation or thermal insecticidal fogging shall
maintain and have available approved protective breathing
apparatus.
1703.3.3 Watch personnel. During the period fumigation
is in progress, except when fumigation is conducted in a
gas-tight vault or tank, a capable, alert watcher shall remain
on duty at the entrance or entrances to the enclosed fumi-
gated space until after the fumigation is completed and the
premises properly ventilated and safe for occupancy. Suffi-
cient watchers shall be provided to prevent persons from
entering the enclosed space under fumigation without being
observed.
1703.4 Thermal insecticidal fogging liquids. Thermal insec-
ticidal fogging liquids with a flash point below 100°F (38°C)
shall not be utilized.
1703.5 Sealing of buildings. Paper and other similar materials
that do not meet the flame propagation performance criteria of
NFPA 701 shall not be used to wrap or cover a building in
excess of that required for the sealing of cracks, casements and
similar openings.
1703.6 Venting and cleanup. At the end of the exposure
period, fumigators shall safely and properly ventilate the pre-
mises and contents; properly dispose of fumigant containers,
residues, debris and other materials used for such fumigation;
and clear obstructions from gas-fired appliance vents.
1703.7 Flammable fumigants restricted. The use of carbon
disulfide and hydrogen cyanide shall be restricted to agricul-
tural fumigation.
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CHAPTER 18
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
SECTION 1801
GENERAL
1801.1 Scope. Semiconductor fabrication facilities and com-
parable research and development areas classified as Group
H-5 shall comply with this chapter and the International Build-
ing Code. The use, storage and handling of hazardous materials
in Group H-5 shall comply with this chapter, other applicable
provisions of this code and the International Building Code.
1801.2 Application. The requirements set forth in this chapter
are requirements specific only to Group H-5 and shall be
applied as exceptions or additions to applicable requirements
set forth elsewhere in this code.
1801.3 Multiple hazards. Where a material poses multiple
hazards, all hazards shall be addressed in accordance with Sec-
tion 2701.1.
1801.4 Existing buildings and existing fabrication areas.
Existing buildings and existing fabrication areas shall comply
with this chapter, except that transportation and handling of
HPM in exit access corridors and exit enclosures shall be
allowed when in compliance with Section 1805.3.2 and the
International Building Code.
1801.5 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 1802
DEFINITIONS
1802.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM. A gas
detection system where the analytical instrument is maintained
in continuous operation and sampling is performed without
interruption. Analysis is allowed to be performed on a cyclical
basis at intervals not to exceed 30 minutes.
EMERGENCY CONTROL STATION. An approved loca
tion on the premises where signals from emergency equipment
are received and which is staffed by trained personnel.
FABRICATION AREA. An area within a semiconductor fab-
rication facility and related research and development areas in
which there are processes using hazardous production materi-
als. Such areas are allowed to include ancillary rooms or areas
such as dressing rooms and offices that are directly related to
the fabrication area processes.
HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAL (HPM). A
solid, Hquid or gas associated with semiconductor manufactur-
ing that has a degree-of-hazard rating in health, flammability or
reactivity of Class 3 or 4 as ranked by NFFA 704 and which is
used directly in research, laboratory or production processes
which have as their end product materials that are not hazardous.
HPM FLAMMABLE LIQUID. An HPM liquid that is
defined as either a Class I flammable liquid or a Class II or
Class IIIA combustible liquid.
HPM ROOM. A room used in conjunction with or serving a
Group H-5 occupancy, where HPM is stored or used and which
is classified as a Group H-2, H-3 or H-4 occupancy.
PASS-THROUGH. An enclosure installed in a wall with a
door on each side that allows chemicals, HPM, equipment, and
parts to be transferred from one side of the wall to the other.
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITY. A
building or a portion of a building in which electrical circuits or
devices are created on solid crystalline substances having elec-
trical conductivity greater than insulators but less than conduc-
tors. These circuits or devices are commonly known as
semiconductors.
SERVICE CORRIDOR. A fully enclosed passage used for
transporting HPM and purposes other than required means of
egress.
TOOL. A device, storage container, workstation, or process
machine used in a fabrication area.
WORKSTATION. A defined space or an independent princi-
pal piece of equipment using HPM within a fabrication area
where a specific function, laboratory procedure or research
activity occurs. Approved or listed hazardous materials storage
cabinets, flammable liquid storage cabinets or gas cabinets
serving a workstation are included as part of the workstation. A
workstation is allowed to contain ventilation equipment, fire
protection devices, detection devices, electrical devices and
other processing and scientific equipment.
SECTION 1803
GENERAL SAFETY PROVISIONS
1803.1 Emergency control station. An emergency control
station shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1803.1.1
through 1803.1.3.
1803.1.1 Location. The emergency control station shall be
located on the premises at an approved location outside the
fabrication area.
1803.1.2 Staffing. Trained personnel shall continuously
staff the emergency control station.
1803.1.3 Signals. The emergency control station shall receive
signals from emergency equipment and alarm and detection
systems. Such emergency equipment and alarm and detection
systems shall include, but not be limited to, the following
where such equipment or systems are required to be provided
either in this chapter or elsewhere in this code:
1. Automatic sprinkler system alarm and monitoring
systems.
2. Manual fire alarm systems.
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SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
3. Emergency alarm systems.
4. Continuous gas detection systems.
5. Smoke detection systems.
6. Emergency power system.
7. Automatic detection and alarm systems for
pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids
required by Section 1805.2.3.5.
8. Exhaust ventilation flow alarm devices for
pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids
cabinet exhaust ventilation systems required by Sec-
tion 1805.2.3.5.
1803.2 Systems, equipment and processes. Systems, equip-
ment and processes shall be in accordance with Sections
1803.2.1 through 1803.2.3.2.
1803.2.1 Application. Systems, equipment and processes
shall include, but not be limited to, containers, cylinders,
tanks, piping, tubing, valves and fittings.
1803.2.2 General requirements. In addition to the require-
ments in Section 1803.2, systems, equipment and processes
shall also comply with Section 2703.2, other applicable pro-
visions of this code, the International Building Code and the
International Mechanical Code.
1803.2.3 Additional requirements for HPM supply pip-
ing. In addition to the requirements in Section 1803.2, HPM
supply piping and tubing for HPM gases and liquids shall
comply with this section.
1803.2.3.1 General requirements. The requirements
set forth in Section 2703.2.2.2 shall apply to supply pip-
ing and tubing for HPM gases and liquids.
1803.2.3.2 Health-hazard ranking 3 or 4 HPM. Sup-
ply piping and tubing for HPM gases and liquids having a
health-hazard ranking of 3 or 4 shall be welded through,
except for connections located within a ventilation
enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method
of drainage or containment provided for connections if
the material is a liquid.
1803.3 Construction requirements. Construction of semi-
conductor fabrication facilities shall be in accordance with
Sections 1803.3.1 through 1803.3.9.
1803.3.1 Fabrication areas. Construction and location of
fabrication areas shall comply with the International Build-
ing Code.
1803.3.2 Pass-throughs in exit access corridors.
Pass-throughs in exit access corridors shall be constructed
in accordance with the International Building Code.
1803.3.3 Liquid storage rooms. Liquid storage rooms shall
comply with Chapter 34 and the International Building Code.
1803.3.4 HPM rooms. HPM rooms shall comply with the
International Building Code.
1803.3.5 Gas cabinets. Gas cabinets shall comply with
Section 2703.8.6.
1803.3.6 Exhausted enclosures. Exhausted enclosures
shall comply with Section 2703.8.5.
1803.3.7 Gas rooms. Gas rooms shall comply with Section
2703.8.4.
1803.3.8 Service corridors. Service corridors shall comply
with Section 1805.3 and the International Building Code.
1803.3.9 Cabinets containing pyrophoric liquids or
water-reactive Class 3 liquids. Cabinets in fabrication
areas containing pyrophoric liquids or Class 3 water-reac-
tive liquids in containers or in amounts greater than 0.5 gal-
lon (2 L) shall comply with Section 1805.2.3.5.
1803.4 Emergency plan. An emergency plan shall be estab-
lished as set forth in Section 408.4.
1803.5 Maintenance of equipment, machinery and pro-
cesses. Maintenance of equipment, machinery and processes
shall comply with Section 2703.2.6.
1803.6 Security of areas. Areas shall be secured in accordance
with Section 2703.9.2.
1803.7 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring
and equipment in HPM facilities shall comply with Sections
1803.7.1 through 1803.7.3.
1803.7.1 Fabrication areas. Electrical wiring and equip-
ment in fabrication areas shall comply with the ICC Electri-
cal Code.
1803.7.2 Workstations. Electrical equipment and devices
within 5 feet (1524 mm) of workstations in which flamma-
ble or pyrophoric gases or flammable liquids are used shall
comply with the ICC Electrical Code for Class I, Division 2
hazardous locations. Workstations shall not be energized
without adequate exhaust ventilation in accordance with
Section 1803.14.
Exception: Class I, Division 2 hazardous electrical
equipment is not required when the air removal from the
workstation or dilution will prevent the accumulation of
flammable vapors and fumes on a continuous basis.
1803.7.3 Hazardous production material (HPM) rooms,
gas rooms and liquid storage rooms. Electrical wiring and
equipment in HPM rooms, gas rooms and liquid storage
rooms shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code.
1803.8 Exit access corridors and exit enclosures. Hazardous
materials shall not be used or stored in exit access corridors or
exit access enclosures.
1803.9 Service corridors. Hazardous materials shall not be
used in an open-system use condition in service corridors.
1803.10 Automatic sprinkler system. An approved automatic
sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with Sections
1803.10.1 through 1803.10.5 and Chapter 9.
1803.10.1 Workstations and tools. The design of the sprin-
kler system in the area shall take into consideration the spray
pattern and the effect on the equipment.
1803.10.1.1 Combustible workstations. A sprinkler
head shall be installed within each branch exhaust con-
nection or individual plenums of workstations of com-
bustible construction. The sprinkler head in the exhaust
connection or plenum shall be located not more than 2
feet (610 mm) from the point of the duct connection or
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
the connection to the plenum. When necessary to prevent
corrosion, the sprinkler head and connecting piping in
the duct shall be coated with approved or listed corro-
sion-resistant materials. The sprinkler head shall be
accessible for periodic inspection.
Exceptions:
1. Approved alternative automatic fire-extin-
guishing systems are allowed. Activation of
such systems shall deactivate the related pro-
cessing equipment.
2. Process equipment which operates at tempera-
tures exceeding 932°F (500°C) and is provided
with automatic shutdown capabilities for haz-
ardous materials.
3. Exhaust ducts 10 inches (254 mm) or less in
diameter from flammable gas storage cabinets
that are part of a workstation.
4. Ducts listed or approved for use without inter-
nal automatic sprinkler protection.
1803.10.1.2 Combustible tools. Where the horizontal
surface of a combustible tool is obstructed from ceiling
sprinkler discharge, automatic sprinkler protection that
covers the horizontal surface of the tool shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. An automatic gaseous fire-extinguishing local
surface apphcation system shall be allowed as an
alternative to sprinklers. Gaseous-extinguishing
systems shall be actuated by infrared (IR) or
ultraviolet/infrared (UVIR) optical detectors.
2. Tools constructed of materials that are listed or
approved for use without internal fire extin-
guishing system protection.
1803.10.2 Gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures. An
approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in
gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures containing HPM
compressed gases.
Exception: Gas cabinets located in an HPM room other
than those cabinets containing pyrophoric gases.
1803.10.3 Pass-throughs in existing exit access corri-
dors. Pass-throughs in existing exit access corridors shall be
protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.
1803.10.4 Exhaust ducts for HPM. An approved auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be provided in exhaust ducts
conveying gases, vapors, fumes, mists or dusts generated
from HPM in accordance with this section and the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
1803.10.4.1 Metallic and noncombustible nonmetal-
lic exhaust ducts. An approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be provided in metallic and noncombustible
nonmetallic exhaust ducts when all of the following con-
ditions apply:
1 . When the largest cross-sectional diameter is equal
to or greater than 10 inches (254 mm).
2. The ducts are within the building.
3. The ducts are conveying flammable gases, vapors |
or fumes.
1803.10.4.2 Combustible nonmetallic exhaust ducts.
An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be pro-
vided in combustible nonmetallic exhaust ducts when
the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is equal to
or greater than 10 inches (254 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . Ducts listed or approved for applications with-
out automatic sprinkler system protection.
2. Ducts not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) in
length installed below ceiling level.
1803.10.4.3 Exhaust connections and plenums of
combustible workstations. Automatic fire-extinguish-
ing system protection for exhaust connections and ple-
nums of combustible workstations shall comply with
Section 1803.14.1.
1803.10.4.4 Exhaust duct sprinkler system require-
ments. Automatic sprinklers installed in exhaust duct
systems shall be hydraulically designed to provide 0.5
gallons per minute (gpm) (1.9 L/min) over an area
derived by multiplying the distance between the sprin-
klers in a horizontal duct by the width of the duct. Mini-
mum discharge shall be 20 gpm (76 L/min) per sprinkler
from the five hydraulically most remote sprinklers.
1803.10.4.4.1 Sprinkler head locations. Automatic
sprinklers shall be installed at 12-foot (3658 mm)
intervals in horizontal ducts and at changes in direc-
tion. In vertical runs, automatic sprinklers shall be
installed at the top and at alternate floor levels.
1803.10.4.4.2 Control valve. A separate indicating
control valve shall be provided for sprinklers installed
in exhaust ducts.
1803.10.4.4.3 Drainage. Drainage shall be provided
to remove sprinkler water discharged in exhaust ducts.
1803.10.4.4.4 Corrosive atmospheres. Where cor-
rosive atmospheres exist, exhaust duct sprinklers and
pipe fittings shall be manufactured of corrosion-
resistant materials or coated with approved materials.
1803.10.4.4.5 Maintenance and inspection. Sprin-
klers in exhaust ducts shall be accessible for periodic
inspection and maintenance.
1803.10.5 Sprinkler alarms and supervision. Automatic
sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised and pro-
vided with alarms in accordance with Chapter 9. Automatic
sprinkler system alarm and supervisory signals shall be
transmitted to the emergency control station.
1803.11 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm sys-
tem shall be installed throughout buildings containing a Group
H-5 occupancy. Activation of the alarm system shall initiate a
local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control sta-
tion. Manual fire alarm systems shall be designed and installed
in accordance with Section 907.
1803.12 Emergency alarm system. Emergency alarm sys-
tems shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1803.12.1
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SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
through 1803.12.3, Section 2704.9 and Section 2705.4.4. The
maximum allowable quantity per control area provisions of
Section 2704.1 shall not apply to emergency alarm systems
required for HPM.
1803.12.1 Where required. Emergency alarm systems
shall be provided in the areas indicated in Sections
1803.12.1.1 through 1803.12.1.3.
1803.12.1.1 Service corridors. An approved emergency
alarm system shall be provided in service corridors, with
at least one alarm device in the service corridor.
1803.12.1.2 Exit access corridors and exit enclosures.
Emergency alarms for exit access corridors and exit
enclosures shall comply with Section 2705.4.4.
1803.12.1.3 Liquid storage rooms, HPM rooms and
gas rooms. Emergency alarms for liquid storage rooms,
HPM rooms and gas rooms shall comply with Section
2704.9.
1803.12.2 Alarm-initiating devices. An approved emer-
gency telephone system, local alarm manual pull stations, or
other approved alarm-initiating devices are allowed to be
used as emergency alarm-initiating devices.
1803.12.3 Alarm signals. Activation of the emergency
alarm system shall sound a local alarm and transmit a signal
to the emergency control station.
1803.13 Continuous gas detection systems. A continuous gas
detection system shall be provided for HPM gases when the
physiological warning threshold level of the gas is at a higher
level than the accepted permissible exposure limit (PEL) for
the gas and for flammable gases in accordance with Sections
1803.13.1 through 1803.13.2.2.
1803.13.1 Where required. A continuous gas detection
system shall be provided in the areas identified in Sections
1803.13.1.1 through 1803.13.1.4.
1803.13.1.1 Fabrication areas. A continuous gas detec-
tion system shall be provided in fabrication areas when
gas is used in the fabrication area.
1803.13.1.2 HPM rooms. A continuous gas detection
system shall be provided in HPM rooms when gas is used
in the room.
1803.13.1.3 Gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures and
gas rooms. A continuous gas detection system shall be
provided in gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures. A
continuous gas detection system shall be provided in gas
rooms when gases are not located in gas cabinets or
exhausted enclosures.
1803.13.1.4 Exit access corridors. When gases are
transported in piping placed within the space defined by
the walls of an exit access corridor and the floor or roof
above the exit access corridor, a continuous gas detection
system shall be provided where piping is located and in
the exit access corridor.
Exception: A continuous gas detection system is not
required for occasional transverse crossings of the
corridors by supply piping which is enclosed in a fer-
rous pipe or tube for the width of the corridor.
1803.13.2 Gas detection system operation. The continu-
ous gas detection system shall be capable of monitoring the
room, area or equipment in which the gas is located at or
below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) or ceiling limit
of the gas for which detection is provided. For flammable
gases, the monitoring detection threshold level shall be
vapor concentrations in excess of 20 percent of the lower
flammable limit (LFL). Monitoring for highly toxic and
toxic gases shall also comply with Chapter 37.
1803.13.2.1 Alarms. The gas detection system shall ini-
tiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency
control station when a short-term hazard condition is
detected. The alarm shall be both visible and audible and
shall provide warning both inside and outside the area
where the gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be dis-
tinct from all other alarms.
1803.13.2.2 Shut off of gas supply. The gas detection
system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the
source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the sys-
tem being monitored for which gas is detected when a
short-term hazard condition is detected. Automatic clo-
sure of shutoff valves shall comply with the following:
1. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating
the gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabi-
net or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the
gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific
gas detected shall automatically close.
2. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating
the gas detection system alarm is within a room
and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabi-
nets or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valves on
all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall auto-
matically close.
3. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating
the gas detection system alarm is within a piping
distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve
supplying the manifold for the compressed gas
container of the specific gas detected shall auto-
matically close.
Exception: Where the gas-detection sampling point
initiating the gas detection system alarm is at the use
location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line
downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shut-
off valve for the branch line located in the piping distri-
bution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.
1803.14 Exhaust ventilation systems for HPM. Exhaust venti-
lation systems and materials for exhaust ducts utihzed for the
exhaust of HPM shall comply with Sections 1803.14.1 through
1 803. 14.3, other applicable provisions of this code, the Interna-
tional Building Code and the International Mechanical Code.
1803.14.1 Where required. Exhaust ventilation systems
shall be provided in the following locations in accordance
with the requirements of this section and the International
Building Code:
1. Fabrication areas: Exhaust ventilation for fabrication
areas shall comply with the International Building
180
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
Code. The fire code official is authorized to require
additional manual control switches.
2. Workstations: A ventilation system shall be provided
to capture and exhaust gases, fumes and vapors at
workstations.
3. Liquid storage rooms: Exhaust ventilation for liquid
storage rooms shall comply with Section 2704.3.1
and the International Building Code.
4. HPM rooms: Exhaust ventilation for HPM rooms
shall comply with Section 2704.3.1 and the Interna-
tional Building Code.
5. Gas cabinets: Exhaust ventilation for gas cabinets
shall comply with Section 2703.8.6.2. The gas cabi-
net ventilation system is allowed to connect to a work-
station ventilation system. Exhaust ventilation for gas
cabinets containing highly toxic or toxic gases shall
also comply with Chapter 37.
6. Exhausted enclosures: Exhaust ventilation for
exhausted enclosures shall comply with Section
2703.8.5.2. Exhaust ventilation for exhausted enclo-
sures containing highly toxic or toxic gases shall also
comply with Chapter 37.
7. Gas rooms: Exhaust ventilation for gas rooms shall
comply with Section 2703.8.4.2. Exhaust ventilation
for gas cabinets containing highly toxic or toxic gases
shall also comply with Chapter 37.
8. Cabinets containing pyrophoric liquids or Class 3
water-reactive liquids: Exhaust ventilation for cabi-
nets in fabrication areas containing pyrophoric liq-
uids or Class 3 water-reactive liquids shall be as
required in Section 1805.2.3.5.
1803.14.2 Penetrations. Exhaust ducts penetrating fire barrier
assembhes shall be contained in a shaft of equivalent fire-resis-
tance-rated construction. Exhaust ducts shall not penetrate fire
walls. Fire dampers shall not be installed in exhaust ducts.
1803.14.3 Treatment systems. Treatment systems for
highly toxic and toxic gases shall comply with Chapter 37.
1803.15 Emergency power system. An emergency power
system shall be provided in Group H-5 occupancies where
required by Section 604. The emergency power system shall be
designed to supply power automatically to required electrical
systems when the normal supply system is interrupted.
1803.15.1 Required electrical systems. Emergency power
shall be provided for electrically operated equipment and
connected control circuits for the following systems:
1. HPM exhaust ventilation systems.
2. HPM gas cabinet ventilation systems.
3. HPM exhausted enclosure ventilation systems.
4. HPM gas room ventilation systems.
5. HPM gas detection systems.
6. Emergency alarm systems.
7. Manual fire alarm systems.
8. Automatic sprinkler system monitoring and alarm
systems.
9. Automatic alarm and detection systems for
pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liq-
uids required in Section 1805.2.3.5.
10. Flow alarm switches for pyrophoric liquids and
Class 3 water-reactive liquids cabinet exhaust venti-
lation systems required in Section 1805.2.3.5.
1 1 . Electrically operated systems required elsewhere in
this code or in the International Building Code
applicable to the use, storage or handling of HPM.
1803.15.2 Exhaust ventilation systems. Exhaust ventila-
tion systems are allowed to be designed to operate at not less
than one-half the normal fan speed on the emergency power
system when it is demonstrated that the level of exhaust will
maintain a safe atmosphere.
SECTIOIM1804
STORAGE
1804.1 General. Storage of hazardous materials shall comply
with Section 1803 and this section and other applicable provi-
sions of this code.
1804.2 Fabrication areas. Hazardous materials storage and
the maximum quantities of hazardous materials in use and stor-
age allowed in fabrication areas shall be in accordance with
Sections 1804.2.1 through 1804.2.2.1.
1804.2.1 Location of HPM storage in fabrication areas.
Storage of HPM in fabrication areas shall be within
approved or listed storage cabinets, gas cabinets, exhausted
enclosures or within a workstation as follows.
1. Flammable and combustible liquid storage cabinets
shall comply with Section 3404.3.2.
2. Hazardous materials storage cabinets shall comply
with Section 2703.8.7.
3. Gas cabinets shall comply with Section 2703.8.6. Gas
cabinets for highly toxic or toxic gases shall also com-
ply with Section 3704.1.2.
4. Exhausted enclosures shall comply with Section
2703.8.5. Exhausted enclosures for highly toxic or
toxic gases shall also comply with Section 3704. 1.3.
5. Workstations shall comply with Section 1805.2.2.
1804.2.2 Maximum aggregate quantities in fabrication
areas. The aggregate quantities of hazardous materials
stored or used in a single fabrication area shall be limited as
specified in this section.
Exception: Fabrication areas containing quantities of
hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantities per control area established by Sections
2703.1.1, 3404.3.4 and 3404.3.5.
1804.2.2.1 Storage and use in fabrication areas. The
maximum quantities of hazardous materials stored or
used in a single fabrication area shall not exceed the
quantities set forth in Table 1804.2.2.1.
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SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
TABLE 1804.2.2.1
QUANTITY LIMITS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS IN A SINGLE FABRICATION AREA IN GROUP H-5'
HAZARD CATEGORY
SOLIDS
(pounds/square foot)
LIQUIDS
(gallons/square foot)
GAS
(cubic feet@NTP/square foot)
PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS
Combustible dust
Noteb
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combustible fiber
Loose
Baled
Noteb
Notes b, c
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combustible liquid
Class II
Class IIIA
Class IIIB
Combination Class I, II and IIIA
Not Applicable
0.01
0.02
Not Limited
0.04
Not Applicable
Cryogenic gas
Flammable
Oxidizing
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Noted
1.25
Explosives
Noteb
Noteb
Noteb
Flammable gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Noted
Noted
Flammable liquid
Class lA
Class IB
Class IC
Combination Class lA, IB and IC
Combination Class I, II and IIIA
Not
Applicable
0.0025
0.025
0.025
0.025
0.04
Not Applicable
Flammable solid
0.001
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Organic peroxide
Unclassified detonable
Class I
Class II
Class III
Class IV
Class V
Noteb
Noteb
0.025
0.1
Not Limited
Not Limited
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Oxidizing gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
Combination of Gaseous and Liquefied
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
1.25
1.25
1.25
Oxidizer
Class 4
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Combination oxidizer Class 1, 2, 3
Noteb
0.003
0.003
0.003
0.003
Noteb
0.03
0.03
0.03
0.03
Not
Applicable
Pyrophoric
Noteb
0.00125
Notes d and e
Unstable reactive
Class 4
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Noteb
0.025
0.1
Not Limited
Noteb
0.0025
0.01
Not Limited
Noteb
Noteb
Noteb
Not Limited
Water reactive
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Noteb
0.25
Not Limited
0.00125
0.025
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
(continued)
182
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SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
TABLE 1804.2.2.1— continued
QUANTITY LIMITS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS IN A SINGLE FABRICATION AREA IN GROUP H-5'
SOLIDS
HAZARD CATEGORY (pounds/square foot)
LIQUIDS GAS
(gallons/square foot) (cubic feet@NTP/square foot)
HEALTH-HAZARD MATERIALS
Corrosives
Not Limited
Not Limited
Not Limited
Highly toxics
Not Limited
Not Limited
Noted
Toxics
Not Limited
Not Limited
Noted
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 4.882 kg/m^, 1 gallon per square foot = 40.7 L/m^, 1 cubic foot @ NTP/square foot = 0.305 m^ @NTP/m^,
1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^.
a. Hazardous materials within piping shall not be included in the calculated quantities.
b. Quantity of hazardous materials in a single fabrication shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area in Tables 2703. 1 .1(1) and 2703 . 1 . 1 (2).
c. Densely packed baled cotton that complies with the packing requirements of ISO 8115 shall not be included in this material class.
d. The aggregate quantity of flammable, pyrophoric, toxic and highly toxic ^ses shall not exceed 9,000 cubic feet at NTP.
e. The aggregate quantity of pyrophoric gases in the building shall not exceed the amounts set forth in Table 2703.8.2.
•I
1804.3 Indoor storage outside of fabrication areas. The
indoor storage of hazardous materials outside of fabrication
areas shall be in accordance with Sections 1804.3.1 through
1804.3.3.
1804.3.1 HPM storage. The indoor storage of HPM in
quantities greater than those listed in Section 2703.1.1 and
3404.3.4 shall be in a room complying with the require-
ments of the International Building Code and this code for a
liquid storage room, HPM room or gas room as appropriate
for the materials stored.
1804.3.2 Other hazardous materials storage. The indoor
storage of other hazardous materials shall comply with Sec-
tions 2701, 2703 and 2704 and other applicable provisions
of this code.
1804.3.3 Separation of incompatible hazardous materi-
als. Incompatible hazardous materials in storage shall be
separated from each other in accordance with Section
2703.9.8.
SECTION 1805
USE AND HANDLING
1805.1 General. The use and handling of hazardous materials
shall comply with this section, Section 1803 and other applica-
ble provisions of this code.
1805.2 Fabrication areas. The use of hazardous materials in
fabrication areas shall be in accordance with Sections 1805.2.1
through 1805.2.3.5.
1805.2.1 Location of HPM in use in fabrication areas.
Hazardous production materials in use in fabrication areas
shall be within approved or listed gas cabinets, exhausted
enclosures or a workstation.
1805.2.2 Maximum aggregate quantities in fabrication
areas. The aggregate quantities of hazardous materials in a
single fabrication area shall comply with Section 1804.2.2,
and Table 1 804.2.2. 1 . The quantity of HPM in use at a work-
station shall not exceed the quantities listed in Table
1805.2.2.
1805.2.2.1 Protection of vessels. Vessels containing
HPM located in or connected to a workstation shall be
protected from physical damage and shall not project
from the workstation. Hazardous gas and liquid vessels
located within a workstation shall be protected from
seismic forces in an approved manner in accordance
with the International Building Code. Protection for
HPM compressed gases shall also comply with Chapter
30.
1805.2.2.2 Drainage and containment for HPM liq-
uids. Each workstation utilizing HPM liquids shall have
all of the following:
1 . Drainage piping systems connected to a compati-
ble system for disposition of such liquids.
2. The work surface provided with a slope or other
means for directing spilled materials to the con-
tainment or drainage system.
3. An approved means of containing or directing
spilled or leaked liquids to the drainage system.
1805.2.2.3 Clearances. Workstations where HPM is
used shall be provided with horizontal servicing clear-
ances of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) for electrical
equipment, gas cylinder connections and similar hazard-
ous conditions. These clearances shall apply only to nor-
mal operational procedures and not to repair or
maintenance-related work.
1805.2.3 Workstations. Workstations in fabrication areas
shall be in accordance with Sections 1805.2.3.1 through
1805.2.3.5.
1805.2.3.1 Construction. Workstations in fabrication
areas shall be constructed of materials compatible with
the materials used and stored at the workstation. The por-
tion of the workstation that serves as a cabinet for HPM
gases and HPM flammable liquids shall be
noncombustible and, if of metal, shall be not less than
0.0478-inch (18 gage) (1.2 mm) steel.
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TABLE 1805.2.2
MAXIMUM QUANTITIES OF HPM AT A WORKSTATION^
HPM CLASSIFICATION
STATE
MAXIMUM QUANTITY
Flammable, highly toxic,
pyrophoric and toxic combined
Gas
3 cylinders
Flammable
Liquid
Solid
15 gallons^' ''• =
5 pounds''' '^
Corrosive
Gas
Liquid
Solid
3 cylinders
Use-open system
25gallons'''''
Use-closed system:
150gallons^'^'f
20 pounds''' =
Highly toxic
Liquid
Solid
15 gallons"'''
5 pounds'"
Oxidizer
Gas
Liquid
Solid
3 cylinders
Use-open system
12 gallons''
Use-closed system
60 gallons '''^
20 pounds'''''
Pyrophoric
Liquid
Solid
0.5 gallon''' g
See Table 1804.2.2.1
Toxic
Liquid
Solid
Use-open system
15 gallons"
Use-closed system
60 gallons "'"
5 pounds'''"
Unstable reactive Class 3
Liquid
Solid
0.5 gallon'''"
5 pounds''' "
Water-reactive Class 3
Liquid
Solid
0,5 gallon''' g
See Table 1804.2.2.1
For SL 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. DOT shipping containers with capacities of greater than 5.3 gallons shall not
be located within a workstation.
b. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent for closed
system operations. When Note c also applies, the increase for both notes
shall be allowed.
c. Quantities shall be allowed to be increased 100 percent when workstations
are internally protected with an approved automatic frre-extinguishing or
suppression system complying with Chapter 9. When Note b also applies,
the increase for both notes shall be allowed. When Note f also applies, the
maximum increase allowed for both Notes c and f shall not exceed 100 per-
cent.
d. Allowed only in workstations that are internally protected with an approved
automatic fire-extinguishing or fire protection system complying with
Chapter 9 and compatible with the reactivity of materials in use at the work-
station.
e. The quantity limits apply only to materials classified as HPM.
f . Quantities shall be allowed to be increased 1 00 percent for nonflammable,
noncombustible corrosive liquids when the materials of construction for
workstations are listed or approved for use without internal fire-extin-
guishing or suppression system protection. When Note c also applies, the
maximum increase allowed for both Notes c and f shall not exceed 1 00 per-
cent.
g. A maximum quantity of 5.3 gallons shall be allowed at a workstation when
conditions are in accordance with Section 1805.2.3.5.
1805.2.3.2 Protection of vessels. Vessels containing
hazardous materials located in or connected to a work-
station shall be protected as follows:
1 . HPM: Vessels containing HPM shall be protected
from physical damage and shall not project from
the workstation.
2. Hazardous cryogenic fluids, gases and liquids:
Hazardous cryogenic fluid, gas and liquid vessels
located within a workstation shall be protected
from seismic forces in an approved manner in
accordance with the International Building Code.
3. Compressed gases: Protection for compressed gas
vessels shall also comply with Section 3003.5.
4. Cryogenic fluids: Protection for cryogenic fluid
vessels shall also comply with Section 3203.3.
1805.2.3.3 Drainage and containment for HPM liq-
uids. Each workstation utilizing HPM liquids shall have
all of the following:
1 . Drainage piping systems connected to a compati-
ble system for disposition of such liquids;
2. The work surface provided with a slope or other
means for directing spilled materials to the con-
tainment or drainage system; and
3. An approved means of containing or directing
spilled or leaked liquids to the drainage system.
1805.2.3.4 Clearances. Workstations where HPM is
used shall be provided with horizontal servicing clear-
ances of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) for electrical
equipment, gas-cylinder connections and similar hazard-
ous conditions. These clearances shall apply only to nor-
mal operational procedures and not to repair- or
maintenance-related work.
1805.2.3.5 Pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reac-
tive liquids. Pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reac-
tive liquids in containers greater than 0.5-gallon (2 L) but
not exceeding 5.3-gallon (20 L) capacity shall be
allowed at workstations when located inside cabinets
and the following conditions are met:
1. Maximum amount per cabinet: The maximum
amount per cabinet shall be limited to 5.3 gallons
(20 L).
2. Cabinet construction: Cabinets shall be con-
structed in accordance with the following:
2.1. Cabinets shall be constructed of not less
than 0.097-inch (2.5 mm) (12 gauge) steel.
2.2. Cabinets shall be permitted to have
self-closing limited access ports or
noncombustible windows that provide
access to equipment controls.
2.3. Cabinets shall be provided with self- or
manual-closing doors. Manual-closing
doors shall be equipped with a door switch
that will initiate local audible and visual
alarms when the door is in the open posi-
tion.
3. Cabinet exhaust ventilation system: An exhaust
ventilation system shall be provided for cabinets
and shall comply with the following:
3.1. The system shall be designed to operate at
a negative pressure in relation to the sur-
rounding area.
•
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•I
3.2. The system shall be equipped with a pres-
sure monitor and a flow switch alarm mon-
itored at the on-site emergency control
station.
4. Cabinet spill containment: Spill containment shall
be provided in each cabinet, with the spill contain-
ment capable of holding the contents of the aggre-
gate amount of liquids in containers in each
cabinet.
5 . Valves : Valves in supply piping between the prod-
uct containers in the cabinet and the workstation
served by the containers shall fail in the closed
position upon power failure, loss of exhaust venti-
lation and upon actuation of the fire control sys-
tem.
6. Fire detection system: Each cabinet shall be
equipped with an automatic fire detection system
complying with the following conditions:
6. 1 . Automatic detection system: UV/IR, high-
sensitivity smoke detection (HSSD) or
other approved detection systems shall be
provided inside each cabinet.
6.2. Automatic shutoff: Activation of the
detection system shall automatically close
the shutoff valves at the source on the liq-
uid supply.
6.3. Alarms and signals: Activation of the
detection system shall initiate a local alarm
within the fabrication area and transmit a
signal to the emergency control station.
The alarms and signals shall be both visual
and audible.
1805.3 Transportation and handling. The transportation and
handling of hazardous materials shall comply with Sections
1805.3.1 through 1805.3.4.1 and other applicable provisions of
this code.
1805.3.1 Exit corridors access and exit enclosures. Exit
access corridors and exit enclosures in new buildings or
serving new fabrication areas shall not contain HPM except
as permitted for exit access corridors by Section 415.8.6.3
of the International Building Code.
1805.3.2 Transport in existing exit access corridors.
When existing fabrication areas are altered or modified in
existing buildings, HPM is allowed to be transported in
existing exit access corridors when such exit access corri-
dors comply with the International Building Code. Trans-
portation in exit access corridors shall comply with Section
2703.10.
1805.3.3 Service corridors. When a new fabrication area is
constructed, a service corridor shall be provided where it is
necessary to transport HPM from a liquid storage room,
HPM room, gas room or from the outside of a building to the
perimeter wall of a fabrication area. Service corridors shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code.
1805.3.4 Carts and trucks. Carts and trucks used to trans-
port HPM in exit acess corridors and exit enclosures in
existing buildings shall comply with Section 2703.10.3.
1805.3.4.1 Identification. Carts and trucks shall be
marked to indicate the contents.
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186 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 19
LUMBER YARDS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES
SECTION 1901
GENERAL
1901.1 Scope. The storage, manufacturing and processing of
timber, lumber, plywood, veneers and byproducts shall be in
accordance with this chapter.
1901.2 Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section
105.6.
SECTION 1902
DEFINITIONS
1902.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
COLD DECK. A pile of unfinished cut logs.
FINES. Small pieces or splinters of wood byproducts that will
pass through a 0.25-inch (6.4 mm) screen.
HOGGED MATERIALS. Wood waste materials produced
from the lumber production process.
PLYWOOD and VENEER MILLS. Facilities where raw
wood products are processed into finished wood products,
including waferboard, oriented strandboard, fiberboard, com-
posite wood panels and plywood.
RAW PRODUCT. A mixture of natural materials such as tree,
brush trimmings, or waste logs and stumps.
STATIC PILES. Piles in which processed wood product is
mounded and is not being turned or moved.
TIMBER and LUMBER PRODUCTION FACILITIES.
Facilities where raw wood products are processed into finished
wood products.
SECTION 1903
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1903.1 Open yards. Open yards required by the International
Building Code shall be maintained around structures.
1903.2 Dust control. Equipment or machinery located inside
buildings which generates or emits combustible dust shall be
provided with an approved dust collection and exhaust system
installed in accordance with Chapter 13 and the International
Mechanical Code. Equipment or systems that are used to col-
lect, process or convey combustible dusts shall be provided
with an approved explosion control system.
1903.2.1 Explosion venting. Where a dust explosion haz-
ard exists in equipment rooms, buildings or other enclo-
sures, such areas shall be provided with explosion
(deflagration) venting or an approved explosion suppres-
sion system complying with Section 911.
1903.3 Waste removal. Sawmills, planning mills and other
woodworking plants shall be equipped with a waste removal
system that will collect and remove sawdust and shavings.
Such systems shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 13
and the International Mechanical Code.
Exception: Manual waste removal when approved.
1903.3.1 Housekeeping. Provisions shall be made for a
systematic and thorough cleaning of the entire plant at suffi-
cient intervals to prevent the accumulations of combustible
dust and spilled combustible or flammable liquids.
1903.3.2 Metal scrap. Provision shall be made for sepa-
rately collecting and disposing of any metal scrap so that
such scrap will not enter the wood handling or processing
equipment.
1903.4 Electrical equipment. Electrical wiring and equip-
ment shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code.
1903.5 Control of ignition sources. Protection from ignition
sources shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1903.5. 1
through 1903.5.3.
1903.5.1 Cutting and welding. Cutting and welding shall
comply with Chapter 26.
1903.5.2 Static electricity. Static electricity shall be pre-
vented from accumulating on machines and equipment sub-
ject to static electricity buildup by permanent grounding and
bonding wires or other approved means.
1903.5.3 Smoking. Where smoking constitutes a fire haz-
ard, the fire code official is authorized to order the owner or
occupant to post approved "No Smoking" signs complying
with Section 3 10. The fire code official is authorized to des-
ignate specific locations where smoking is allowed.
1903.6 Fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access
roads shall be provided for buildings and facilities in accor-
dance with Section 503.
1903.7 Access plan. Where storage pile configurations could
change because of changes in product operations and process-
ing, the access plan shall be submitted for approval when
required by the fire code official.
SECTION 1904
FIRE PROTECTION
1904.1 Fire alarms. An approved means for transmitting
alarms to the fire department shall be provided in timber and
lumber production mills and plywood and veneer mills.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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LUMBER YARDS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES
1904.1.1 Manual fire alarms. A manual fire alarm system
complying with Section 907.2 shall be installed in areas of
timber and lumber production mills and for plywood and
veneer mills that contain product dryers.
Exception: Where dryers or other sources of ignition are
protected by a supervised automatic sprinkler system
complying with Section 903.
1904.2 Portable fire extinguishers and hose. Portable fire
extinguishers or standpipes and hose supplied from an
approved water system shall be provided within 50 feet (15 240
mm) of travel distance to any machine producing shavings or
sawdust. Extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with
Section 906 for extra-high hazards.
1904.3 Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler
systems shall be installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
SECTION 1905
PLYWOOD, VENEER AND COMPOSITE
BOARD MILLS
1905.1 General. Plant operations of plywood, veneer and
composite board mills shall comply with this section.
1905.2 Dryer protection. Dryers shall be protected through-
out by an approved, automatic deluge water-spray suppression
system complying with Chapter 9. Deluge heads shall be
inspected quarterly for pitch buildup. Deluge heads shall be
flushed during regular maintenance for functional operation.
Manual activation valves shall be located within 75 feet (22 860
mm) of the drying equipment.
1905.3 Thermal oil-heating systems. Facilities that use heat
transfer fluids to provide process equipment heat through
piped, indirect heating systems shall comply with this code and
NFPA 664.
SECTION 1906
LOG STORAGE AREAS
1906.1 General. Log storage areas shall comply with this sec-
tion.
1906.2 Cold decks. Cold decks shall not exceed 500 feet
(152.4 m) in length, 300 feet (91 440 mm) in width and 20 feet
(6096 mm) in height. Cold decks shall be separated from adja-
cent cold decks or other exposures by a minimum of 100 feet
(30 480 mm).
Exception: The size of cold decks shall be determined by
the fire code official where the decks are protected by spe-
cial fire protection including, but not limited to, additional
fire flow, portable turrets and deluge sets, and hydrant hose
houses equipped with approved fire-fighting equipment
capable of reaching the entire storage area in accordance
with Chapter 9.
1906.3 End stops. Log and pole piles shall be stabilized by
approved means.
SECTION 1907
STORAGE OF WOOD CHIPS AND HOGGED
MATERIAL ASSOCIATED WITH TIMBER AND
LUMBER PRODUCTION FACILITIES
1907.1 General. The storage of wood chips and hogged mate-
rials associated with timber and lumber production facilities
shall comply with this section.
1907.2 Size of piles. Piles shall not exceed 60 feet (1 8 288 mm)
in height, 300 feet (91 440 mm) in width and 500 feet (152 m)
in length. Piles shall be separated from adjacent piles or other
exposures by approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: The fire code official is authorized to allow the
pile size to be increased when additional fire protection is
provided in accordance with Chapter 9. The increase shall
be based on the capabilities of the system installed.
1907.3 Pile fire protection. Automatic sprinkler protection
shall be provided in conveyor tunnels and combustible enclo-
sures that pass under a pile. Combustible or enclosed conveyor
systems shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprin-
kler system.
1907.4 Material-handling equipment. Approved mate-
rial-handling equipment shall be readily available for moving
wood chips and hogged material.
1907.5 Emergency plan. The owner or operator shall develop
a plan for monitoring, controlling and extinguishing spot fires.
The plan shall be submitted to the fire code official for review
and approval.
SECTION 1908
STORAGE AND PROCESSING OF WOOD CHIPS,
HOGGED MATERIAL, FINES, COMPOST AND RAW
PRODUCT ASSOCIATED WITH YARD WASTE AND
RECYCLING FACILITIES
1908.1 General. The storage and processing of wood chips,
hogged materials, fines, compost and raw product produced
from yard waste, debris and recycling facilities shall comply
with this section.
1908.2 Storage site. Storage sites shall be level and on solid
ground or other all-weather surface. Sites shall be thoroughly
cleaned before transferring wood products to the site.
1908.3 Size of piles. Piles shall not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm)
in height, 150 feet (45 720 mm) in width and 250 feet (76 200
mm) in length.
Exception: The fire code official is authorized to allow the
pile size to be increased when additional fire protection is
provided in accordance with Chapter 9. The increase shall
be based upon the capabilities of the system installed.
1908.4 Pile separation. Piles shall be separated from adjacent
piles by approved fire apparatus access roads.
1908.5 Combustible waste. The storage, accumulation and
handling of combustible materials and control of vegetation
shall comply with Chapter 3.
1908.6 Static pile protection. Static piles shall be monitored
by an approved means to measure temperatures within the
188
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
LUMBER YARDS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES
Static piles. Internal pile temperatures shall be monitored and
recorded weekly. Records shall be kept on file at the facility and
made available for inspection. An operational plan indicating
procedures and schedules for the inspection, monitoring and
restricting of excessive internal temperatures in static piles
shall be submitted to the fire code official for review and
approval.
1908.7 Pile fire protection. Automatic sprinkler protection
shall be provided in conveyor tunnels and combustible enclo-
sures that pass under a pile. Combustible conveyor systems and
enclosed conveyor systems shall be equipped with an approved
automatic sprinkler system.
1908.8 Fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers com-
plying with Section 906 and with a minimum rating of
4-A:60-B:C shall be provided on all vehicles and equipment
operating on piles and at all processing equipment.
1908.9 Material-handling equipment. Approved mate-
rial-handling equipment shall be available for moving wood
chips, hogged material, wood fines and raw product during
fire-fighting operations.
1908.10 Emergency plan. The owner or operator shall
develop a plan for monitoring, controlling and extinguishing
spot fires and submit the plan to the fire code official for review
and approval.
SECTION 1909
EXTERIOR STORAGE OF FINISHED
LUMBER PRODUCTS
1909.1 General. Exterior storage of finished lumber products
shall comply with this section.
1909.2 Size of piles. Exterior lumber storage shall be arranged
to form stable piles with a maximum height of 20 feet (6096
mm). Piles shall not exceed 150,000 cubic feet (4248 m^) in
volume.
1909.3 Fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access
roads in accordance with Section 503 shall be located so that a
maximum grid system unit of 50 feet by 150 feet (15 240 mm
by 45 720 mm) is established.
1909.4 Security. Permanent lumber storage areas shall be sur-
rounded with an approved fence. Fences shall be a minimum of
6 feet (1829 mm) in height.
Exception: Lumber piles inside of buildings and produc-
tion mills for lumber, plywood and veneer.
1909.5 Fire protection. An approved hydrant and hose system
or portable fire-extinguishing equipment suitable for the fire
hazard involved shall be provided for open storage yards.
Hydrant and hose systems shall be installed in accordance with
NFPA 24. Portable fire extinguishers complying with Section
906 shall be located so that the travel distance to the nearest unit
does not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm).
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
189
190 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 20
MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC COATINGS
SECTION 2001
GENERAL
2001.1 Scope. Organic coating manufacturing processes shall
comply with this chapter except that this chapter shall not apply
to processes manufacturing nonflammable or water-thinned
coatings or to operations applying coating materials.
2001.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
2001.3 Maintenance. Structures and their service equipment
shall be maintained in accordance with this code and NFPA 35 .
SECTION 2002
DEFINITIONS
2002.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
ORGANIC COATING. A hquid mixture of binders such as
alkyd, nitrocellulose, acrylic or oil, and flammable and com-
bustible solvents such as hydrocarbon, ester, ketone or alcohol,
which, when spread in a thin film, convert to a durable protec-
tive and decorative finish.
SECTION 2003
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
2003.1 Building features. Manufacturing of organic coatings
shall be done only in buildings that do not have pits or base-
ments.
2003.2 Location. Organic coating manufacturing operations
and operations incidental to or connected with organic coating
manufacturing shall not be located in buildings having other
occupancies.
2003.3 Fire-fighting access. Organic coating manufacturing
operations shall be accessible from at least one side for the pur-
pose of fire control. Approved aisles shall be maintained for the
unobstructed movement of personnel and fire suppression
equipment.
2003.4 Fire protection systems. Fire protection systems shall
be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in
accordance with Chapter 9.
2003.5 Portable fire extinguishers. A minimum of one porta-
ble fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 for extra haz-
ard shall be provided in organic coating areas.
2003.6 Open flames. Open flames and direct-fired heating
devices shall be prohibited in areas where flammable vapor-air
mixtures exist.
2003.7 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited in accordance
with Section 310.
2003.8 Power equipment. Power-operated equipment and
industrial trucks shall be of a type approved for the location.
2003.9 Tank maintenance. The cleaning of tanks and vessels
that have contained flammable or combustible liquids shall be
performed under the supervision of persons knowledgeable of
the fire and explosion potential.
2003.9.1 Repairs. Where necessary to make repairs involv-
ing "hot work," the work shall be authorized by the respon-
sible individual before the work begins.
2003.9.2 Empty containers. Empty flammable or combus-
tible liquid containers shall be removed to a detached, out-
side location and, if not cleaned on the premises, the empty
containers shall be removed from the plant as soon as practi-
cal.
2003.10 Drainage. Drainage facilities shall be provided to
direct flammable and combustible liquid leakage and fire pro-
tection water to an approved location away from the building,
any other structure, storage area or adjoining premises.
2003.11 Alarm system. An approved fire alarm system shall
be provided in accordance with Section 907.
SECTION 2004
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND PROTECTION
2004.1 Wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equip-
ment shall comply with this chapter and shall be installed in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
2004.2 Hazardous locations. Where Class I liquids are
exposed to the air, the design of equipment and ventilation of
structures shall be such as to limit the Class I, Division 1, loca-
tions to the following:
1. Piping trenches.
2. The interior of equipment.
3. The immediate vicinity of pumps or equipment loca-
tions, such as dispensing stations, open centrifuges, plate
and frame filters, opened vacuum filters, change cans
and the surfaces of open equipment. The immediate
vicinity shall include a zone extending from the vapor
liberation point 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally in all
directions and vertically from the floor to a level 3 feet
(914 mm) above the highest point of vapor liberation.
2004.2.1 Other locations. Locations within the confines of
the manufacturing room where Class I liquids are handled
shall be Class I, Division 2 except locations indicated in
Section 2004.2.
2004.2.2 Ordinary equipment. Ordinary electrical equip-
ment, including switchgear, shall be prohibited except
where installed in a room maintained under positive pres-
sure with respect to the hazardous area. The air or other
media utilized for pressurization shall be obtained from a
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
191
MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC COATINGS
source that will not cause any amount or type of flammable
vapor to be introduced into the room.
2004.3 Bonding. Equipment including, but not limited to,
tanks, machinery and piping, shall be bonded and connected to
a ground where an ignitable mixture is capable of being pres-
ent.
2004.3.1 Piping. Electrically isolated sections of metallic
piping or equipment shall be grounded or bonded to the
other grounded portions of the system.
2004.3.2 Vehicles. Tank vehicles loaded or unloaded
through open connections shall be grounded and bonded to
the receiving system.
2004.3.3 Containers. Where a flammable mixture is trans-
ferred from one portable container to another, a bond shall
be provided between the two containers, and one shall be
grounded.
2004.4 Ground. Metal framing of buildings shall be grounded
with resistance of not more than 5 ohms.
SECTION 2005
PROCESS STRUCTURES
2005.1 Design. Process structures shall be designed and con-
structed in accordance with the International Building Code.
2005.2 Fire apparatus access. Fire apparatus access comply-
ing with Section 503 shall be provided for the purpose of fire
control to at least one side of organic coating manufacturing
operations.
2005.3 Drainage. Drainage facilities shall be provided in
accordance with Section 2003.10 where topographical condi-
tions are such that flammable and combustible liquids are capa-
ble of flowing from the organic coating manufacturing
operation so as to constitute a fire hazard to other premises.
2005.4 Explosion control. Explosion control shall be pro-
vided in areas subject to potential deflagration hazards as indi-
cated in NFPA 35. Explosion control shall be provided in
accordance with Section 911.
2005.5 Ventilation. Enclosed structures in which Class I liq-
uids are processed or handled shall be ventilated at a rate of not
less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot (0.00508 mV s
• m^) of solid floor area. Ventilation shall be accomplished by
exhaust fans that take suction at floor levels and discharge to a
safe location outside the structure. Noncontaminated intake air
shall be introduced in such a manner that all portions of solid
floor areas are provided with continuous uniformly distributed
air movement.
2005.6 Heating. Heating provided in hazardous areas shall be
by indirect means. Ignition sources such as open flames or
electrical heating elements, except as provided for in Section
2004, shall not be permitted within the structure.
SECTION 2006
PROCESS MILLS AND KETTLES
2006.1 Mills. Mills, operating with close clearances, which
process flammable and heat-sensitive materials, such as
nitrocellulose, shall be located in a detached building or in a
noncombustible structure without other occupancies. The
amount of nitrocellulose or other flammable material brought
into the area shall not be more than the amount required for a
batch.
2006.2 Mixers. Mixers shall be of the enclosed type or, where
of the open type, shall be provided with properly fitted covers.
Where flow is by gravity, a shutoff valve shall be installed as
close as practical to the mixer, and a control valve shall be pro-
vided near the end of the fill pipe.
2006.3 Open kettles. Open kettles shall be located in an out-
side area provided with a protective roof; in a separate structure
of noncombustible construction; or separated from other areas
by a noncombustible wall having a fire -resistance rating of at
least 2 hours.
2006.4 Closed kettles. Contact-heated kettles containing sol-
vents shall be equipped with safety devices that, in case of a
fire, will turn off the process heat, turn on the cooling medium
and inject inert gas into the kettle.
2006.4.1 Vaporizer location. The vaporizer section of
heat-transfer systems that heat closed kettles containing sol-
vents shall be remotely located.
2006.5 Kettle controls. The kettle and thin-down tank shall be
instrumented, controlled and interlocked so that any failure of
the controls will result in a safe condition. The kettle shall be
provided with a pressure-rupture disc in addition to the primary
vent. The vent piping from the rupture disc shall be of mini-
mum length and shall discharge to an approved location. The
thin-down tank shall be adequately vented. Thinning opera-
tions shall be provided with an adequate vapor removal system.
SECTION 2007
PROCESS PIPING
2007.1 Design. All piping, valves and fittings shall be designed
for the working pressures and structural stresses to which the
piping, valves and fittings will be subjected, and shall be of
steel or other material approved for the service intended.
2007.2 Valves. Valves shall be of an indicating type. Terminal
valves on remote pumping systems shall be of the dead-man
type, shutting off both the pump and the flow of solvent.
2007.3 Support. Piping systems shall be supported adequately
and protected against physical damage. Piping shall be pitched
to avoid unintentional trapping of liquids, or approved drains
shall be provided.
2007.4 Connectors. Approved flexible connectors shall be
installed where vibration exists or frequent movement is neces-
sary. Hose at dispensing stations shall be of an approved type.
2007.5 Tests. Before being placed in service, all piping shall be
free of leaks when tested for a minimum of 30 minutes at not
less than 1.5 times the working pressure or a minimum of 5
pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (35 kPa) at the highest
point in the system.
192
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
SECTION 2008
RAW MATERIALS IN PROCESS AREAS
2008.1 Nitrocellulose quantity. The amount of nitrocellulose
brought into the operating area shall not exceed the amount
required for a work shift. Nitrocellulose spillage shall be
promptly swept up and disposed of properly.
2008.2 Organic peroxides quantity. Organic peroxides
brought into the operating area shall be in the original shipping
container. When in the operating area, the organic peroxide
shall not be placed in locations exposed to ignition sources,
heat or mechanical shocks.
SECTION 2009
RAW MATERIALS AND FINISHED PRODUCTS
2009.1 General. The storage, handling and use of flammable
and combustible liquids in process areas shall be in accordance
with Chapter 34.
2009.2 Tank storage. Tank storage for flammable and com-
bustible liquids located inside of structures shall be limited to
storage areas at or above grade which are separated from the
processing area in accordance with the International Building
Code. Processing equipment containing flammable and com-
bustible liquids and storage in quantities essential to the conti-
nuity of the operations shall not be prohibited in the processing
area.
2009.3 Tank vehicle. Tank car and tank vehicle loading and
unloading stations for Class I liquids shall be separated from
the processing area, other plant structures, nearest lot line of
property that can be built upon or pubhc thoroughfare by a min-
imum clear distance of 25 feet (7620 mm).
2009.3.1 Loading. Loading and unloading structures and
platforms for flammable and combustible liquids shall be
designed and installed in accordance with Chapter 34.
2009.3.2 Safety. Tank cars for flammable liquids shall be
unloaded such that the safety to persons and property is
ensured. Tank vehicles for flammable and combustible liq-
uids shall be loaded and unloaded in accordance with Chap-
ter 34.
2009.4 Nitrocellulose storage. Nitrocellulose storage shall be
located on a detached pad or in a separate structure or a room
enclosed in accordance with the International Building Code.
The nitrocellulose storage area shall not be utilized for any
other purpose. Electrical wiring and equipment installed in
storage areas adjacent to process areas shall comply with Sec-
tion 2004.2.
2009.4.1 Containers. Nitrocellulose shall be stored in
closed containers. Barrels shall be stored on end and not
more than two tiers high. Barrels or other containers of
nitrocellulose shall not be opened in the main storage struc-
ture but at the point of use or other location intended for that
purpose.
2009.4.2 Spills. Spilled nitrocellulose shall be promptly
wetted with water and disposed of by use or burning in the
open at an approved detached location.
MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC COATINGS
2009.5 Organic peroxide storage. The storage of organic per-
oxides shall be in accordance with Chapter 39.
2009.5.1 Size. The size of the package containing organic
peroxide shall be selected so that, as nearly as practical, full
packages are utilized at one time. Spilled peroxide shall be
promptly cleaned up and disposed of as specified by the
supplier.
2009.6 Finished products. Finished products that are flamma-
ble or combustible liquids shall be stored outside of structures,
in a separate structure, or in a room separated from the process-
ing area in accordance with the International Building Code.
The storage of finished products shall be in tanks or closed con-
tainers in accordance with Chapter 34.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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194 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
CHAPTER 21
INDUSTRIAL OVENS
SECTION 2101
GENERAL
2101.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to the installation and
operation of industrial ovens and furnaces. Industrial ovens
and furnaces shall comply with the applicable provisions of
NFPA 86, the International Fuel Gas Code, International
Mechanical Code and this chapter. The terms "ovens" and "fur-
naces" are used interchangeably in this chapter.
2101.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
SECTION 2102
DEFINITIONS
2102.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
FURNACE CLASS A. An oven or furnace that has heat utili-
zation equipment operating at approximately atmospheric
pressure wherein there is a potential explosion or fire hazard
that could be occasioned by the presence of flammable
volatiles or combustible materials processed or heated in the
furnace.
Note: Such flammable volatiles or combustible materials
can, for instance, originate from the following:
1. Paints, powders, inks, and adhesives from finishing
processes, such as dipped, coated, sprayed and
impregnated materials.
2. The substrate material.
3. Wood, paper and plastic pallets, spacers or packaging
materials.
4. Polymerization or other molecular rearrangements.
Potentially flammable materials, such as quench oil,
water-borne finishes, cooling oil or cooking oils, that pres-
ent a hazard are ventilated according to Class A standards.
FURNACE CLASS B. An oven or furnace that has heat utili-
zation equipment operating at approximately atmospheric
pressure wherein there are no flammable volatiles or combusti-
ble materials being heated.
FURNACE CLASS C. An oven or furnace that has a potential
hazard due to a flammable or other special atmosphere being
used for treatment of material in process. This type of furnace
can use any type of heating system and includes a special atmo-
sphere supply system. Also included in the Class C classifica-
tion are integral quench furnaces and molten salt bath furnaces.
FURNACE CLASS D. An oven or furnace that operates at
temperatures from above ambient to over 5,000°F (2760°C)
and at pressures normally below atmospheric using any type of
heating system. These furnaces can include the use of special
processing atmospheres.
SECTION 2103
LOCATION
2103.1 Ventilation. Enclosed rooms or basements containing
industrial ovens or furnaces shall be provided with combustion
air in accordance with the International Mechanical Code and
the International Fuel Gas Code, and with ventilation air in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
2103.2 Exposure. When locating ovens, oven heaters and
related equipment, the possibility of fire resulting from over-
heating or from the escape of fuel gas or fuel oil and the possi-
bility of damage to the building and injury to persons resulting
from explosion shall be considered.
2103.3 Ignition source. Industrial ovens and furnaces shall be
located so as not to pose an ignition hazard to flammable
vapors or mists or combustible dusts.
2103.4 Temperatures. Roofs and floors of ovens shall be insu-
lated and ventilated to prevent temperatures at combustible
ceilings and floors from exceeding 160°F (71°C).
SECTION 2104
FUEL PIPING
2104.1 Fuel-gas piping. Fuel-gas piping serving industrial
ovens shall comply with the International Fuel Gas Code. Pip-
ing for other fuel sources shall comply with this section.
2104.2 Shutoff valves. Each industrial oven or furnace shall be
provided with an approved manual fuel shutoff valve in accor-
dance with the International Mechanical Code or the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code.
2104.2.1 Fuel supply lines. Valves for fuel supply fines
shall be located within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance
served.
Exception: When approved and the valve is located in
the same general area as the appliance served.
2104.3 Valve position. The design of manual fuel shutoff
valves shall incorporate a permanent feature which visually
indicates the open or closed position of the valve. Manual fuel
shutoff valves shall not be equipped with removable handles or
wrenches unless the handle or wrench can only be installed par-
allel with the fuel line when the valve is in the open position.
SECTION 2105
INTERLOCKS
2105.1 Shut down. Interlocks shall be provided for Class A
ovens so that conveyors or sources of flammable or combusti-
ble materials shall shut down if either the exhaust or
recirculation air supply fails.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
195
INDUSTRIAL OVENS
SECTION 2106
FIRE PROTECTION
2106.1 Required protection. Class A and B ovens which con-
tain, or are utilized for the processing of, combustible materials
shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing
system complying with Chapter 9.
2106.2 Fixed fire-extinguishing systems. Fixed fire-extin-
guishing systems shall be provided for Class C or D ovens to
protect against such hazards as overheating, spillage of molten
salts or metals, quench tanks, ignition of hydraulic oil and
escape of fuel. It shall be the user's responsibihty to consult
with the fire code official concerning the necessary require-
ments for such protection.
2106.3 Fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers com-
plying with Section 906 shall be provided not closer than 15
feet (4572 mm) or a maximum of 50 feet (15 240 mm) or in
accordance with NFPA 10. This shall apply to the oven and
related equipment.
SECTION 2107
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
2107.1 Furnace system information. An approved, clearly
worded, and prominently displayed safety design data form or
manufacturer's nameplate shall be provided stating the safe
operating condition for which the furnace system was
designed, built, altered or extended.
2107.2 Oven nameplate. Safety data for Class A solvent atmo-
sphere ovens shall be furnished on the manufacturer's name-
plate. The nameplate shall provide the following design data:
1 . The solvent used.
2. The number of gallons (liters) used per batch or per hour
of solvent entering the oven.
3. The required purge time.
4. The oven operating temperature.
5. The exhaust blower rating for the number of gallons
(liters) of solvent per hour or batch at the maximum oper-
ating temperature.
Exception: For low-oxygen ovens, the maximum
allowable oxygen concentration shall be included in
place of the exhaust blower ratings.
2107.3 Training. Operating, maintenance and supervisory
personnel shall be thoroughly instructed and trained in the
operation of ovens or furnaces.
2107.4 Equipment maintenance. Equipment shall be main-
tained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
196
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
CHAPTER 22
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
SECTION 2201
GENERAL
2201.1 Scope. Automotive motor fuel-dispensing facilities,
marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities, fleet vehicle motor
fuel-dispensing facilities and repair garages shall be in accor-
dance with this chapter and the International Building Code,
International Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical
Code. Such operations shall include both operations that are
accessible to the public and private operations.
2201.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
2201.3 Construction documents. Construction documents
shall be submitted for review and approval prior to the installa-
tion or construction of automotive, marine or fleet vehicle
motor fuel-dispensing facilities and repair garages in accor-
dance with Section 105.4.
2201.4 Indoor motor fuel-dispensing facilities. Motor
fuel-dispensing facilities located inside buildings shall comply
with the International Building Code and NFPA 30A.
2201.4.1 Protection of floor openings in indoor motor
fuel-dispensing facilities. Where motor fuel-dispensing
facilities are located inside buildings and the dispensers are
located above spaces within the building, openings beneath
dispensers shall be sealed to prevent the flow of leaked fuel
to lower building spaces.
2201.5 Electrical. Electrical wiring and equipment shall be
suitable for the locations in which they are installed and shall
comply with Section 605, NFPA 30A and the ICC Electrical
Code.
2201.6 Heat-producing appliances. Heat-producing appli-
ances shall be suitable for the locations in which they are
installed and shall comply with NFPA 30A and the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code or the International Mechanical Code.
SECTION 2202
DEFINITIONS
2202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
AUTOMOTIVE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACIL-
ITY. That portion of property where flammable or combustible
liquids or gases used as motor fuels are stored and dispensed
from fixed equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles.
DISPENSING DEVICE, OVERHEAD TYPE. A dispens-
ing device that consists of one or more individual units
intended for installation in conjunction with each other,
mounted above a dispensing area typically within the motor
fuel-dispensing facility canopy structure, and characterized by
the use of an overhead hose reel.
FLEET VEHICLE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY. That portion of a commercial, industrial, govern-
mental or manufacturing property where liquids used as fuels
are stored and dispensed into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles
that are used in connection with such businesses, by persons
within the employ of such businesses.
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG). A fluid in the liquid
state composed predominantly of methane and which may con-
tain minor quantities of ethane, propane, nitrogen or other
components normally found in natural gas.
MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITY. That
portion of property where flammable or combustible liquids or
gases used as fuel for watercraft are stored and dispensed from
fixed equipment on shore, piers, wharves, floats or barges into
the fuel tanks of watercraft and shall include all other facilities
used in connection therewith.
REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof
used for servicing or repairing motor vehicles.
SELF-SERVICE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACIL-
ITY. That portion of motor fuel-dispensing facility where liq-
uid motor fuels are dispensed from fixed approved dispensing
equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles by persons
other than a motor fuel-dispensing facility attendant.
SECTION 2203
LOCATION OF DISPENSING DEVICES
2203.1 Location of dispensing dsevices. Dispensing devices
shall be located as follows:
1. Ten feet (3048 mm) or more from lot lines.
2. Ten feet (3048 mm) or more from buildings having com-
bustible exterior wall surfaces or buildings having
noncombustible exterior wall surfaces that are not part of
a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated assembly or buildings hav-
ing combustible overhangs.
Exception: Canopies constructed in accordance with
the International Building Code providing weather
protection for the fuel islands.
3. Such that all portions of the vehicle being fueled will be
on the premises of the motor fuel-dispensing facility.
4. Such that the nozzle, when the hose is fully extended,
will not reach within 5 feet (1524 mm) of building open-
ings.
5. Twenty feet (6096 mm) or more from fixed sources of
ignition.
2203.2 Emergency disconnect switches. An approved,
clearly identified and readily accessible emergency disconnect
switch shall be provided at an approved location, to stop the
transfer of fuel to the fuel dispensers in the event of a fuel spill
or other emergency. An emergency disconnect switch for exte-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
197
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
rior fuel dispensers shall be located within 100 feet (30 480
mm) of, but not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) from, the fuel dis-
pensers. For interior fuel-dispensing operations, the emer-
gency disconnect switch shall be installed at an approved
location. Such devices shall be distinctly labeled as: EMER-
GENCY FUEL SHUTOFF. Signs shall be provided in
approved locations.
SECTION 2204
DISPENSING OPERATIONS
2204.1 Supervision of dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at
motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be conducted by a quali-
fied attendant or shall be under the supervision of a qualified
attendant at all times or shall be in accordance with Section
2204.3.
2204.2 Attended self-service motor fuel-dispensing facili-
ties. Attended self-service motor fuel -dispensing facilities
shall comply with Sections 2204.2.1 through 2204.2.5.
Attended self-service motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall
have at least one qualified attendant on duty while the facility is
open for business. The attendant's primary function shall be to
supervise, observe and control the dispensing of fuel. The
attendant shall prevent the dispensing of fuel into containers
that do not comply with Section 2204.4.1, control sources of
ignition, give immediate attention to accidental spills or
releases, and be prepared to use fire extinguishers.
2204.2.1 Special-type dispensers. Approved special-dis-
pensing devices and systems such as, but not limited to,
card- or coin-operated and remote-preset types, are allowed
at motor fuel-dispensing facilities provided there is at least
one qualified attendant on duty while the facility is open to
the public. Remote preset-type devices shall be set in the
"off' position while not in use so that the dispenser cannot
be activated without the knowledge of the attendant.
2204.2.2 Emergency controls. Approved emergency con-
trols shall be provided in accordance with Section 2203.2.
2204.2.3 Operating instructions. Dispenser operating
instructions shall be conspicuously posted in approved loca-
tions on every dispenser.
2204.2.4 Obstructions to view. Dispensing devices shall
be in clear view of the attendant at all times. Obstructions
shall not be placed between the dispensing area and the
attendant.
2204.2.5 Communications. The attendant shall be able to
communicate with persons in the dispensing area at all
times. An approved method of communicating with the fire
department shall be provided for the attendant.
2204.3 Unattended self-service motor fuel-dispensing facil-
ities. Unattended self-service motor fuel -dispensing facilities
shall comply with Sections 2204.3.1 through 2204.3.7.
2204.3.1 General. Where approved, unattended self-ser-
vice motor fuel-dispensing facilities are allowed. As a con-
dition of approval, the owner or operator shall provide, and
be accountable for, daily site visits, regular equipment
inspection and maintenance.
2204.3.2 Dispensers. Dispensing devices shall comply
with Section 2206.7. Dispensing devices operated by the
insertion of coins or currency shall not be used unless
approved.
2204.3.3 Emergency controls. Approved emergency con-
trols shall be provided in accordance with Section 2203.2.
Emergency controls shall be of a type which is only manu-
ally resettable.
2204.3.4 Operating instructions. Dispenser operating
instructions shall be conspicuously posted in approved loca-
tions on every dispenser and shall indicate the location of
the emergency controls required by Section 2204.3.3.
2204.3.5 Emergency procedures. An approved emergency
procedures sign, in addition to the signs required by Section
2205.6, shall be posted in a conspicuous location and shall
read:
IN CASE OF FIRE, SPILL OR RELEASE
1. USE EMERGENCY PUMP SHUTOFF
2. REPORT THE ACCIDENT!
FIRE DEPARTMENT TELEPHONE NO.
FACILITY ADDRESS
2204.3.6 Communications. A telephone not requiring a
coin to operate or other approved, clearly identified means
to notify the fire department shall be provided on the site in a
location approved by the fire code official.
2204.3.7 Quantity limits. Dispensing equipment used at
unsupervised locations shall comply with one of the follow-
ing:
1. Dispensing devices shall be programmed or set to
limit uninterrupted fuel delivery to 25 gallons (95 L)
and require a manual action to resume delivery.
2. The amount of fuel being dispensed shall be limited in
quantity by a preprogrammed card as approved.
2204.4 Dispensing into portable containers. The dispensing
of flammable or combustible liquids into portable approved
containers shall comply with Sections 2204.4.1 through
2204.4.3.
2204.4.1 Approved containers required. Class I, II and
IIIA liquids shall not be dispensed into a portable container
unless such container is of approved material and construc-
tion, and has a tight closure with screwed or spring-loaded
cover so designed that the contents can be dispensed with-
out spilling. Liquids shall not be dispensed into portable
tanks or cargo tanks.
2204.4.2 Nozzle operation. A hose nozzle valve used for
dispensing Class I liquids into a portable container shall be
in compliance with Section 2206.7.6 and be manually held
open during the dispensing operation.
2204.4.3 Location of containers being filled. Portable
containers shall not be filled while located inside the trunk,
passenger compartment or truck bed of a vehicle.
198
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
SECTION 2205
OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
2205.1 Tank filling operations for Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
Delivery operations to tanks for Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall
comply with Sections 2205. 1 . 1 through 2205. 1 .3 and the appH-
cable requirements of Chapter 34.
2205.1.1 Delivery vehicle location. Where liquid delivery
to above-ground storage tanks is accomplished by posi-
tive-pressure operation, tank vehicles shall be positioned a
minimum of 25 feet (7620 mm) from tanks receiving Class I
liquids and 15 feet (4572 mm) from tanks receiving Class II
and IIIA liquids.
2205.1.2 Tank capacity calculation. The driver, operator
or attendant of a tank vehicle shall, before making delivery
to a tank, determine the unfilled, available capacity of such
tank by an approved gauging device.
2205.1.3 Tank fill connections. Delivery of flammable hq-
uids to tanks more than 1,000 gallons (3785 L) in capacity
shall be made by means of approved liquid- and vapor-tight
connections between the delivery hose and tank fill pipe.
Where tanks are equipped with any type of vapor recovery
system, all connections required to be made for the safe and
proper functioning of the particular vapor recovery process
shall be made. Such connections shall be made liquid and
vapor tight and remain connected throughout the unloading
process. Vapors shall not be discharged at grade level during
delivery.
2205.2 Equipment maintenance and inspection. Motor
fuel-dispensing facility equipment shall be maintained in
proper working order at all times in accordance with Sections
2205.2.1 through 2205.2.3.
2205.2.1 Dispensing devices. Where maintenance to Class
I liquid dispensing devices becomes necessary and such
maintenance could allow the accidental release or ignition
of liquid, the following precautions shall be taken before
such maintenance is begun:
1. Only persons knowledgeable in performing the
required maintenance shall perform the work.
2. Electrical power to the dispensing device and pump
serving the dispenser shall be shut off at the main
electrical disconnect panel.
3. The emergency shutoff valve at the dispenser, where
installed, shall be closed.
4. Vehicle traffic and unauthorized persons shall be pre-
vented from coming within 12 feet (3658 mm) of the
dispensing device.
2205.2.2 Emergency shutoff valves. Automatic emer-
gency shutoff valves required by Section 2206.7.4 shall be
checked not less than once per year by manually tripping the
hold-open linkage.
2205.2.3 Leak detectors. Leak detection devices required
by Section 2206.7.7.1 shall be checked and tested at least
annually in accordance with the manufacturer's specifica-
tions to ensure proper installation and operation.
2205.3 Spill control. Provisions shall be made to prevent liq-
uids spilled during dispensing operations from flowing into
buildings. Acceptable methods include, but shall not be limited
to, grading driveways, raising doorsills, or other approved
means.
2205.4 Sources of ignition. Smoking and open flames shall be
prohibited in areas where fuel is dispensed. The engines of
vehicles being fueled shall be shut off during fueling. Electrical
equipment shall be in accordance with the ICC Electrical
Code.
2205.5 Fire extinguishers. Approved portable fire
extinguishers complying with Section 906 with a minimum
rating of 2-A:20-B:C shall be provided and located such that an
extinguisher is not more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from pumps,
dispensers or storage tank fill-pipe openings.
2205.6 Warning signs. Warning signs shall be conspicuously
posted within sight of each dispenser in the fuel-dispensing
area and shall state the following:
1. No smoking.
2. Shut off motor.
3 . Discharge your static electricity before fueling by touch-
ing a metal surface away from the nozzle.
4. To prevent static charge, do not reenter your vehicle
while gasoline is pumping.
5. If a fire starts, do not remove nozzle — back away imme-
diately.
6. It is unlawful and dangerous to dispense gasoline into
unapproved containers.
7. No filling of portable containers in or on a motor vehicle.
Place container on ground before filling.
2205.7 Control of brush and debris. Fenced and diked areas
surrounding above-ground tanks shall be kept free from vege-
tation, debris and other material that is not necessary to the
proper operation of the tank and piping system.
Weeds, grass, brush, trash and other combustible materials
shall be kept not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from fuel-han-
dling equipment.
SECTION 2206
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID MOTOR
FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES
2206.1 General. Storage of flammable and combustible liq-
uids shall be in accordance with Chapter 34 and this section.
2206.2 Method of storage. Approved methods of storage for
Class I, II and IIIA liquid fuels at motor fuel-dispensing facili-
ties shall be in accordance with Sections 2206.2.1 through
2206.2.5.
2206.2.1 Underground tanks. Underground tanks for the
storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquid fuels shall comply with
Chapter 34.
2206.2.1.1 Inventory control for underground tanks.
Accurate daily inventory records shall be maintained and
reconciled on underground fuel storage tanks for indica-
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199
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
tion of possible leakage from tanks and piping. The
records shall be kept at the premises or made available
for inspection by the fire code official within 24 hours of
a written or verbal request and shall include records for
each product showing daily reconciliation between
sales, use, receipts and inventory on hand. Where there is
more than one system consisting of tanks serving sepa-
rate pumps or dispensers for a product, the reconciliation
shall be ascertained separately for each tank system. A
consistent or accidental loss of product shall be immedi-
ately reported to the fire code official.
2206.2.2 Above-ground tanks located inside buildings.
Above-ground tanks for the storage of Class I, II and IIIA
liquid fuels are allowed to be located in buildings. Such
tanks shall be located in special enclosures complying with
Section 2206.2.6, in a liquid storage room or a liquid storage
warehouse complying with Chapter 34, or shall be listed
and labeled as protected above-ground tanks.
2206.2.3 Above-ground tanks located outside, above
grade. Above-ground tanks shall not be used for the storage
of Class I, II or IIIA liquid motor fuels except as provided by
this section.
1. Above-ground tanks used for outside, above-grade
storage of Class I liquids shall be listed and labeled as
protected above-ground tanks and be in accordance
with Chapter 34. Such tanks shall be located in accor-
dance with Table 2206.2.3.
2. Above-ground tanks used for above-grade storage of
Class II or IIIA liquids are allowed to be protected
above-ground tanks or, when approved by the fire
code official, other above-ground tanks that comply
with Chapter 34. Tank locations shall be in accor-
dance with Table 2206.2.3.
3. Tanks containing fuels shall not exceed 12,000 gal-
lons (45 420 L) in individual capacity or 48,000 gal-
lons (181 680 L) in aggregate capacity. Installations
with the maximum allowable aggregate capacity shall
be separated from other such installations by not less
than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
4. Tanks located at farms, construction projects, or rural
areas shall comply with Section 3406.2.
2206.2.4 Above-ground tanks located in above-grade
vaults or below-grade vaults. Above-ground tanks used
for storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquid motor fuels are
allowed to be installed in vaults located above grade or
below grade in accordance with Section 3404.2.8 and shall
comply with Sections 2206.2.4.1 and 2206.2.4.2. Tanks in
above-grade vaults shall also comply with Table 2206.2.3.
2206.2.4.1 Tank capacity limits. Tanks storing Class I
and Class II liquids at an individual site shall be lim-
ited to a maximum individual capacity of 15,000 gal-
lons (56 775 L) and an aggregate capacity of 48,000
gallons (181 680 L).
2206.2.4.2 Fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facili-
ties. Tanks storing Class II and Class IIIA liquids at a
fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facility shall be lim-
ited to a maximum individual capacity of 20,000 gallons
(75 700 L) and an aggregate capacity of 80,000 gallons
(302 BOOL).
TABLE 2206.2.3
MINIMUM SEPARATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ABOVE-GROUND TANKS
CLASS OF LIQUID
AND TANK TYPE
INDIVIDUAL TANK
CAPACITY
(gallons)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
FROM NEAREST
IMPORTANT
BUILDING ON SAME
PROPERTY
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
FROM NEAREST
FUEL DISPENSER
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
FROM LOT LINE
THAT IS OR CAN BE
BUILT UPON,
INCLUDING THE
OPPOSITE SIDE OF
A PUBLIC WAY (feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
FROM NEAREST
SIDE OF ANY
PUBLIC WAY
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
BETWEEN TANKS
(feet)
Class I protected
above-ground
tanks
Less than or equal
to 6,000
5
25^
15
5
3
Greater than 6,000
15
25''
25 .
15
3
Class II and III
protected
above-ground
tanks
Same as Class I
Same as Class I
Same as Class I
Same as Class I
Same as Class I
Same as Class I
Tanks in vaults
0-20,000
O''
O''
Separate
compartment
required for each
tank
Other tanks
AH
50
50
100
50
3
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. At fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facilities, no minimum separation distance is required.
b. Underground vaults shall be located such that they will not be subject to loading from nearby structures, or they shall be designed to accommodate applied loads
from existing or future structures that can be built nearby.
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2206.2.5 Portable tanks. Where approved by the fire code
official, portable tanks are allowed to be temporarily used in
conjunction with the dispensing of Class I, II or IIIA liquids
into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles or motorized equip-
ment on premises not normally accessible to the public. The
approval shall include a definite time limit.
2206.2.6 Special enclosures. Where installation of tanks in
accordance with Section 3404.2.11 is impractical, or
because of property or building limitations, tanks for liquid
motor fuels are allowed to be installed in buildings in special
enclosures in accordance with all of the following:
1 . The special enclosure shall be liquid tight and vapor
tight.
2. The special enclosure shall not contain backfill.
3 . Sides, top and bottom of the special enclosure shall be
of reinforced concrete at least 6 inches (152 mm)
thick, with openings for inspection through the top
only.
4. Tank connections shall be piped or closed such that
neither vapors nor liquid can escape into the enclosed
space between the special enclosure and any tanks
inside the special enclosure.
5 . Means shall be provided whereby portable equipment
can be employed to discharge to the outside any
vapors which might accumulate inside the special
enclosure should leakage occur.
6. Tanks containing Class I, II or IIIA liquids inside a
special enclosure shall not exceed 6,000 gallons
(22 7 1 L) in individual capacity or 1 8,000 gallons
(68 130 L) in aggregate capacity.
7. Each tank within special enclosures shall be sur-
rounded by a clear space of not less than 3 feet (910
mm) to allow for maintenance and inspection.
2206.3 Security. Above-ground tanks for the storage of liquid
motor fuels shall be safeguarded from public access or unau-
thorized entry in an approved manner.
2206.4 Physical protection. Guard posts complying with Sec-
tion 312 or other approved means shall be provided to protect
above-ground tanks against impact by a motor vehicle unless
the tank is listed as a protected above-ground tank with vehicle
impact protection.
2206.5 Secondary containment. Above-ground tanks shall be
provided with drainage control or diking in accordance with
Chapter 34. Drainage control and diking is not required for
listed secondary containment tanks. Secondary containment
systems shall be monitored either visually or automatically.
Enclosed secondary containment systems shall be provided
with emergency venting in accordance with Section
2206.6.2.5.
2206.6 Piping, valves, fittings and ancillary equipment for
use with flammable or combustible liquids. The design, fab-
rication, assembly, testing and inspection of piping, valves, fit-
tings and ancillary equipment for use with flammable or
combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 34 and
Sections 2206.6. 1 through 2206.6.3.
2206.6.1 Protection from damage. Piping shall be located
such that it is protected from physical damage.
2206.6.2 Piping, valves, fittings and ancillary equipment
for above-ground tanks for Class I, II and IIIA liquids.
Piping, valves, fittings and ancillary equipment for
above-ground tanks shall comply with Sections 2206.6.2.1
through 2206.6.2.6.
2206.6.2.1 Tank openings. Tank openings for
above-ground tanks shall be through the top only.
2206.6.2.2 Fill-pipe connections. The fill pipe for
above-ground tanks shall be provided with a means for
making a direct connection to the tank vehicle's
fuel-delivery hose so that the delivery of fuel is not
exposed to the open air during the filling operation.
Where any portion of the fill pipe exterior to the tank
extends below the level of the top of the tank, a check
valve shall be installed in the fill pipe not more than 12
inches (305 mm) from the fill-hose connection.
2206.6.2.3 Overfill protection. Overfill protection shall
be provided for above-ground flammable and combusti-
ble liquid storage tanks in accordance with Sections
3404.2.7.5.8 and 3404.2.9.6.6.
2206.6.2.4 Siphon prevention. An approved antisiphon
method shall be provided in the piping system to prevent
flow of liquid by siphon action.
2206.6.2.5 Emergency relief venting. Above-ground
storage tanks, tank compartments and enclosed second-
ary containment spaces shall be provided with emer-
gency relief venting in accordance with Chapter 34.
2206.6.2.6 Spill containers. A spill container having a
capacity of not less than 5 gallons (19 L) shall be pro-
vided for each fill connection. For tanks with a top fill
connection, spill containers shall be noncombustible and
shall be fixed to the tank and equipped with a manual
drain valve that drains into the primary tank. For tanks
with a remote fill connection, a portable spill container is
allowed.
2206.6.3 Piping, valves, fittings and ancillary equipment
for underground tanks. Piping, valves, fittings and ancil-
lary equipment for underground tanks shall comply with
Chapter 34 and NFPA 30A.
2206.7 Fuel-dispensing systems for flammable or combus-
tible liquids. The design, fabrication and installation of
fuel-dispensing systems for flammable or combustible liquid
fuels shall be in accordance with Sections 2206.7.1 through
2206.7.9.2.4.
2206.7.1 Listed equipment. Electrical equipment, dispens-
ers, hose, nozzles and submersible or subsurface pumps
used in fuel-dispensing systems shall be listed.
2206.7.2 Fixed pumps required. Class I and II liquids shall
be transferred from tanks by means of fixed pumps designed
and equipped to allow control of the flow and prevent leak-
age or accidental discharge.
2206.7.3 Mounting of dispensers. Dispensing devices
except those installed on top of a protected above-ground
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tank that qualifies as vehicle-impact resistant, shall be pro-
tected against physical damage by mounting on a concrete
island 6 inches (152 mm) or more in height, or shall be pro-
tected in accordance with Section 312. Dispensing devices
shall be installed and securely fastened to their mounting
surface in accordance with the dispenser manufacturer's
instructions. Dispensing devices installed indoors shall be
located in an approved position where they cannot be struck
by an out-of-control vehicle descending a ramp or other
slope.
2206.7.4 Dispenser emergency valve. An approved auto-
matic emergency shutoff valve designed to close in the
event of a fire or impact shall be properly installed in the liq-
uid supply line at the base of each dispenser supplied by a
remote pump. The valve shall be installed so that the shear
groove is flush with or within '/2 inch (12.7 mm) of the top of
the concrete dispenser island and there is clearance pro-
vided for maintenance purposes around the valve body and
operating parts. The valve shall be installed at the liquid sup-
ply line inlet of each overhead-type dispenser. Where
installed, a vapor return line located inside the dispenser
housing shall have a shear section or approved flexible con-
nector for the liquid supply line emergency shutoff valve to
function. Emergency shutoff valves shall be installed and
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions, tested at the time of initial installation and at least
yearly thereafter in accordance with Section 2205.2.2.
2206.7.5 Dispenser hose. Dispenser hoses shall be a maxi-
mum of 18 feet (5486 mm) in length unless otherwise
approved. Dispenser hoses shall be listed and approved.
When not in use, hoses shall be reeled, racked or otherwise
protected from damage.
2206.7.5.1 Breakaway devices. Dispenser hoses for
Class I and II liquids shall be equipped with a listed
emergency breakaway device designed to retain liquid
on both sides of a breakaway point. Such devices shall be
installed and maintained in accordance with the manu-
facturer's instructions. Where hoses are attached to
hose-retrieving mechanisms, the emergency breakaway
device shall be located between the hose nozzle and the
point of attachment of the hose-retrieval mechanism to
the hose.
2206.7.6 Fuel delivery nozzles. A listed automatic-clos-
ing-type hose nozzle valve with or without a latch-open
device shall be provided on island-type dispensers used for
dispensing Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
Overhead-type dispensing units shall be provided with a
listed automatic-closing-type hose nozzle valve without a
latch-open device.
Exception: A listed automatic-closing-type hose nozzle
valve with latch-open device is allowed to be used on
overhead-type dispensing units where the design of the
system is such that the hose nozzle valve will close auto-
matically in the event the valve is released from a fill
opening or upon impact with a driveway.
2206.7.6.1 Special requirements for nozzles. Where
dispensing of Class I, II or IIIA liquids is performed, a
listed automatic-closing-type hose nozzle valve shall be
used incorporating all of the following features:
1 . The hose nozzle valve shall be equipped with an
integral latch-open device.
2. When the flow of product is normally controlled
by devices or equipment other than the hose nozzle
valve, the hose nozzle valve shall not be capable of
being opened unless the delivery hose is pressur-
ized. If pressure to the hose is lost, the nozzle shall
close automatically.
Exception: Vapor recovery nozzles incorporat-
ing insertion interlock devices designed to
achieve shutoff on disconnect from the vehicle
fill pipe.
3. The hose nozzle shall be designed such that the
nozzle is retained in the fill pipe during the filling
operation.
4. The system shall include listed equipment with a
feature that causes or requires the closing of the
hose nozzle valve before the product flow can be
resumed or before the hose nozzle valve can be
replaced in its normal position in the dispenser.
2206.7.7 Remote pumping systems. Remote pumping sys-
tems for liquid fuels shall comply with Sections 2206.7.7.1
and 2206.7.7.2.
2206.7.7.1 Leak detection. Where remote pumps are
used to supply fuel dispensers, each pump shall have
installed on the discharge side a listed leak detection
device that will detect a leak in the piping and dispensers
and provide an indication. A leak detection device is not
required if the piping from the pump discharge to under
the dispenser is above ground and visible.
2206.7.7.2 Location. Remote pumps installed above
grade, outside of buildings, shall be located not less than
10 feet (3048 mm) from lines of adjoining property that
can be built upon and not less than 5 feet ( 1 524 mm) from
any building opening. Where an outside pump location is
impractical, pumps are permitted to be installed inside
buildings as provided for dispensers in Section 2201.4
and Chapter 34. Pumps shall be substantially anchored
and protected against physical damage.
2206.7.8 Gravity and pressure dispensing. Flammable
liquids shall not be dispensed by gravity from tanks, drums,
barrels or similar containers. Flammable or combustible liq-
uids shall not be dispensed by a device operating through
pressure within a storage tank, drum or container.
2206.7.9 Vapor-recovery and vapor-processing systems.
Vapor-recovery and vapor-processing systems shall be in
accordance with Sections 2206.7.9. 1 through 2206.7.9.2.4.
2206.7.9.1 Vapor-balance systems. Vapor-balance sys-
tems shall comply with Sections 2206.7.9.1.1 through
2206.7.9.1.5.
2206.7.9.1.1 Dispensing devices. Dispensing
devices incorporating provisions for vapor recovery
shall be listed and labeled. When existing listed or
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labeled dispensing devices are modified for vapor
recovery, such modifications shall be listed by report
by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. The list-
ing by report shall contain a description of the compo-
nent parts used in the modification and recommended
method of installation on specific dispensers. Such
report shall be made available on request of the fire
code official.
Means shall be provided to shut down fuel dispens-
ing in the event the vapor return line becomes
blocked.
2206.7.9.1.2 Vapor-return line closeoff. An accept-
able method shall be provided to close off the vapor
return line from dispensers when the product is not
being dispensed.
2206.7.9.1.3 Piping. Piping in vapor-balance systems
shall be in accordance with Sections 3403.6, 3404.2.9
and 3404.2.1 1. Nonmetallic piping shall be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
Existing and new vent piping shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3403.6 and 3404.2. Vapor return
piping shall be installed in a manner that drains back
to the tank, without sags or traps in which liquid can
become trapped. If necessary, because of grade, con-
densate tanks are allowed in vapor return piping. Con-
densate tanks shall be designed and installed so that
they can be drained without opening.
2206.7.9.1.4 Flexible joints and shear joints. Flexi-
ble joints shall be installed in accordance with Section
3403.6.9.
An approved shear joint shall be rigidly mounted
and connected by a union in the vapor return piping at
the base of each dispensing device. The shear joint
shall be mounted flush with the top of the surface on
which the dispenser is mounted.
2206.7.9.1.5 Testing. Vapor return lines and vent pip-
ing shall be tested in accordance with Section
3403.6.3.
2206.7.9.2 Vapor-processing systems. Vapor-process-
ing systems shall comply with Sections 2206.7.9.2.1
through 2206.7.9.2.4.
2206.7.9.2.1 Equipment. Equipment in vapor-pro-
cessing systems, including hose nozzle valves, vapor
pumps, flame arresters, fire checks or systems for pre-
vention of flame propagation, controls and vapor-pro-
cessing equipment, shall be individually listed for the
intended use in a specified manner.
Vapor-processing systems that introduce air into
the underground piping or storage tanks shall be pro-
vided with equipment for prevention of flame propa-
gation that has been tested and listed as suitable for
the intended use.
2206.7.9.2.2 Location. Vapor-processing equipment
shall be located at or above grade. Sources of ignition
shall be located not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm)
from fuel-transfer areas and not less than 18 inches
(457 mm) above tank fill openings and tops of dis-
penser islands. Vapor-processing units shall be
located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the near-
est building or lot line of a property which can be built
upon.
Exception: Where the required distances to build-
ings, lot lines or fuel-transfer areas cannot be
obtained, means shall be provided to protect
equipment against fire exposure. Acceptable
means shall include but not be limited to:
1. Approved protective enclosures, which
extend at least 1 8 inches (457 mm) above the
equipment, constructed of fire-resistant or
noncombustible materials; or
2. Fire protection using an approved water-
spray system.
Vapor-processing equipment shall be located a
minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from dispensing
devices. Processing equipment shall be protected
against physical damage by guardrails, curbs, protec-
tive enclosures or fencing. Where approved protec-
tive enclosures are used, approved means shall be
provided to ventilate the volume within the enclosure
to prevent pocketing of flammable vapors.
Where a downslope exists toward the location of
the vapor-processing unit from a fuel-transfer area,
the fire code official is authorized to require addi-
tional separation by distance and height.
2206.7.9.2.3 Installation. Vapor-processing units
shall be securely mounted on concrete, masonry or
structural steel supports on concrete or other
noncombustible foundations. Vapor-recovery and
vapor-processing equipment is allowed to be installed
on roofs when approved.
2206.7.9.2.4 Piping. Piping in a mechanical-assist
system shall be in accordance with Sections 3403.6.
SECTION 2207
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS MOTOR
FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES
2207.1 General. Motor fuel-dispensing facilities for liquefied
petroleum gas (LP-gas) fuel shall be in accordance with this
section and Chapter 38.
2207.2 Approvals. Storage vessels and equipment used for the
storage or dispensing of LP-gas shall be approved or listed in
accordance with Sections 2207.2.1 and 2207.2.2.
2207.2.1 Approved equipment. Containers, pressure relief
devices (including pressure relief valves), pressure regula-
tors and piping for LP-gas shall be approved.
2207.2.2 Listed equipment. Hoses, hose connections,
vehicle fuel connections, dispensers, LP-gas pumps and
electrical equipment used for LP-gas shall be listed.
2207.3 Attendants. Motor fuel-dispensing operations for
LP-gas shall be conducted by qualified attendants or in accor-
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dance with Section 2207.6 by persons trained in the proper
handling of LP-gas.
2207.4 Location of dispensing operations and equipment.
In addition to the requirements of Section 2206.7, the point of
transfer for LP-gas dispensing operations shall be 25 feet (7620
mm) or more from buildings having combustible exterior wall
surfaces, buildings having noncombustible exterior wall sur-
faces that are not part of a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated assem-
bly, or buildings having combustible overhangs, lot lines of
property which could be built on, public streets, or sidewalks
and railroads; and at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from driveways
and buildings having noncombustible exterior wall surfaces
that are part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly having a rating
of 1 hour or more.
Exception: The point of transfer for LP-gas dispensing
operations need not be separated from canopies that are con-
structed in accordance with the International Building Code
and which provide weather protection for the dispensing
equipment.
LP-gas containers shall be located in accordance with Chap-
ter 38. LP-gas storage and dispensing equipment shall be
located outdoors and in accordance with Section 2206.7.
2207.5 Installation of LP-gas dispensing devices and equip-
ment. The installation and operation of LP-gas dispensing sys-
tems shall be in accordance with Sections 2207.5.1 through
2207.5.3 and Chapter 38. LP-gas dispensers and dispensing
stations shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's specifications and their listing.
2207.5.1 Valves. A manual shutoff valve and an excess
flow-control check valve shall be located in the liquid line
between the pump and the dispenser inlet where the dis-
pensing device is installed at a remote location and is not
part of a complete storage and dispensing unit mounted on a
common base.
An excess flow-control check valve or an emergency
shutoff valve shall be installed in or on the dispenser at the
point at which the dispenser hose is connected to the liquid
piping. A differential backpressure valve shall be consid-
ered equivalent protection.
A listed shutoff valve shall be located at the discharge end
of the transfer hose.
2207.5.2 Hoses. Hoses and piping for the dispensing of
LP-gas shall be provided with hydrostatic relief valves. The
hose length shall not exceed 18 feet (5486 mm). An
approved method shall be provided to protect the hose
against mechanical damage.
2207.5.3 Vehicle impact protection. Vehicle impact pro-
tection for LP-gas storage containers, pumps and dispensers
shall be provided in accordance with Section 2206.4.
2207.6 Private fueling of motor vehicles. Self-service LP-gas
dispensing systems, including key, code and card lock dispens-
ing systems, shall not be open to the public and shall be limited
to the filling of permanently mounted fuel containers on
LP-gas powered vehicles.
In addition to the requirements of Sections 2205 and 2206.7,
self-service LP-gas dispensing systems shall be in accordance
with the following:
1 . The system shall be provided with an emergency shutoff
switch located within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of, but not
less than 20 feet (6096 mm) from, dispensers.
2. The owner of the LP-gas motor fuel-dispensing facility
shall provide for the safe operation of the system and the
training of users.
2207.7 Overfilling. LP-gas containers shall not be filled in
excess of the fixed outage installed by the manufacturer or the
weight stamped on the tank.
SECTION 2208
COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS MOTOR
FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES
2208.1 General. Motor fuel-dispensing facilities for com-
pressed natural gas (CNG) fuel shall be in accordance with this
sectionand Chapter 30.
2208.2 Approvals. Storage vessels and equipment used for the
storage, compression or dispensing of CNG shall be approved
or fisted in accordance with Sections 2208.2.1 and 2208.2.2.
2208.2.1 Approved equipment. Containers, compressors,
pressure relief devices (including pressure relief valves),
and pressure regulators and piping used for CNG shall be
approved.
2208.2.2 Listed equipment. Hoses, hose connections, dis-
pensers, gas detection systems and electrical equipment
used for CNG shall be listed. Vehicle-fueling connections
shall be listed and labeled.
2208.3 Location of dispensing operations and equipment.
Compression, storage and dispensing equipment shall be
located above ground, outside.
Exceptions:
1 . Compression, storage or dispensing equipment shall
be allowed in buildings of noncombustible construc-
tion, as set forth in the International Building Code,
which are unenclosed for three quarters or more of the
perimeter.
2. Compression, storage and dispensing equipment
shall be allowed indoors or in vaults in accordance
with Chapter 30.
I
2208.3.1 Location on property. In addition to the require-
ments of Section 2203. 1 , compression, storage and dispens-
ing equipment not located in vaults complying with Chapter I
30 shall be installed as follows: |
1. Not beneath power lines.
2. Ten feet (3048 mm) or more from the nearest building
or lot line that could be built on, public street, side-
walk or source of ignition.
Exception: Dispensing equipment need not be
separated from canopies that are constructed in
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accordance with the International Building Code
and that provide weather protection for the dis-
pensing equipment.
3. Twenty-five feet (7620 mm) or more from the nearest
rail of any railroad track and 50 feet (15 240 mm) or
more from the nearest rail of any railroad main track
or any railroad or transit line where power for train
propulsion is provided by an outside electrical source,
such as third rail or overhead catenary.
4. Fifty feet (15 240 mm) or more from the vertical plane
below the nearest overhead wire of a trolley bus line.
2208.4 Private fueling of motor vehicles. Self-service
CNG-dispensing systems, including key, code and card lock
dispensing systems, shall be limited to the filling of perma-
nently mounted fuel containers on CNG-powered vehicles.
In addition to the requirements in Section 2205, the owner of
a self-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility shall ensure
the safe operation of the system and the training of users.
2208.5 Pressure regulators. Pressure regulators shall be
designed and installed or protected so that their operation will
not be affected by the elements (freezing rain, sleet, snow or
ice), mud or debris. The protection is allowed to be an integral
part of the regulator.
2208.6 Valves. Gas piping to equipment shall be provided with
a remote, readily accessible manual shutoff valve.
2208.7 Emergency shutdown control. An emergency shut-
down control shall be located within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of,
but not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from, dispensers and shall
also be provided in the compressor area. Upon activation, the
emergency shutdown system shall automatically shut off the
power supply to the compressor and close valves between the
main gas supply and the compressor and between the storage
containers and dispensers.
2208.8 Discharge of CNG from motor vehicle fuel storage
containers. The discharge of CNG from motor vehicle fuel
cylinders for the purposes of maintenance, cylinder certifica-
tion, calibration of dispensers or other activities shall be in
accordance with Sections 2208.8.1 through 2208.8.1.2.6.
2208.8.1 Methods of discharge. The discharge of CNG
from motor vehicle fuel cylinders shall be accomplished
through a closed transfer system in accordance with Section
2208.8.1.1 or an approved method of atmospheric venting
in accordance with Section 2208.8.1.2.
2208.8.1.1 Closed transfer system. A documented pro-
cedure that explains the logical sequence for discharging
the cylinder shall be provided to the fire code official for
review and approval. The procedure shall include what
actions the operator will take in the event of a low-pres-
sure or high-pressure natural gas release during the dis-
charging activity. A drawing illustrating the arrangement
of piping, regulators and equipment settings shall be pro-
vided to the fire code official for review and approval.
The drawing shall illustrate the piping and regulator
arrangement and shall be shown in spatial relation to the
location of the compressor, storage vessels and emer-
gency shutdown devices.
2208.8.1.2 Atmospheric venting. Atmospheric venting
of CNG shall comply with Sections 2208.8.1.2.1
through 2208.8.1.2.6.
2208.8.1.2.1 Plans and specifications. A drawing
illustrating the location of the vessel support, piping,
the method of grounding and bonding, and other
requirements specified herein shall be provided to the
fire code official for review and approval.
2208.8.1.2.2 Cylinder stability. A method of rigidly
supporting the vessel during the venting of CNG shall
be provided. The selected method shall provide not
less than two points of support and shall prevent the
horizontal and lateral movement of the vessel. The
system shall be designed to prevent the movement of
the vessel based on the highest gas-release velocity
through valve orifices at the vessel's rated pressure
and volume. The structure or appurtenance shall be
constructed of noncombustible materials.
2208.8.1.2.3 Separation. The structure or appurte-
nance used for stabilizing the cylinder shall be sepa-
rated from the site equipment, features and exposures
and shall be located in accordance with Table
2208.8.1.2.3.
TABLE 2208.8.1 .2.3
SEPARATION DISTANCE FOR ATMOSPHERIC VENTING OF CNG
EQUIPMENT OR FEATURE
MINIMUM SEPARATION
(feet)
Buildings
25
Building openings
25
Lot lines
15
Public ways _j
15
Vehicles
25
CNG compressor and storage vessel*
25
CNG dispensers
25
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
2208.8.1.2.4 Grounding and bonding. The structure
or appurtenance used for supporting the cylinder shall
be grounded in accordance with the ICC Electrical
Code. The cylinder valve shall be bonded prior to the
commencement of venting operations.
2208.8.1.2.5 Vent tube. A vent tube that will divert
the gas flow to atmosphere shall be installed on the
cylinder prior to commencement of the venting and
purging operation. The vent tube shall be constructed
of pipe or tubing materials approved for use with
CNG in accordance with Chapter 30.
The vent tube shall be capable of dispersing the gas
a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) above grade level.
The vent tube shall not be provided with a rain cap or
other feature which would limit or obstruct the gas
flow.
At the connection fitting of the vent tube and the
CNG cylinder, a listed bidirectional detonation flame
arrester shall be provided.
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2208.8.1.2.6 Signage. Approved "No Smoking"
signs complying with Section 310 shall be posted
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the cylinder support
structure or appurtenance. Approved CYLINDER
SHALL BE BONDED signs shall be posted on the
cylinder support structure or appurtenance.
SECTION 2209
HYDROGEN MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
AND GENERATION FACILITIES
2209.1 General. Hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing and genera-
tion facilities shall be in accordance with this section and Chap-
I ter 35. Where a fuel-dispensing facility also includes a repair
garage, the repair operation shall comply with Section 221 1.
2209.2 Equipment. Equipment used for the generation, com-
pression, storage or dispensing of hydrogen shall be designed
for the specific application in accordance with Sections
2209.2.1 through 2209.2.3.
12209.2.1 Approved equipment. Cyhnders, containers and
tanks; pressure relief devices, including pressure valves;
hydrogen vaporizers; pressure regulators; and piping used
for gaseous hydrogen systems shall be designed and con-
Istructed in accordance with Section 3003, 3203 or NFPA
55.
2209.2.2 Listed equipment. Hoses, hose connections,
compressors, hydrogen generators, dispensers, detection
systems and electrical equipment used for hydrogen shall be
listed for use with hydrogen. Hydrogen motor fueling con-
nections shall be listed and labeled for use with hydrogen.
2209.2.3 Electrical equipment. Electrical installations
shall be in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
2209.3 Location on property. In addition to the requirements
of Section 2203.1, generation, compression, storage and dis-
pensing equipment shall be located in accordance with Sec-
tions 2209.3.1 through Section 2209.3.3.
12209.3.1 Separation from outdoor exposure hazards.
Generation, compression and dispensing equipment shall
be separated from other fuels or equivalent risks to life,
safety and buildings or public areas in accordance with
Table 2209.3.1.
Exception: Closed systems with a hydrogen capacity of
3,000 cubic feet (85 m^) or less at NTP.
2209.3.1.1 Barrier wall construction-gaseous hydro-
gen. The outdoor separation shall be allowed to be
reduced to 5 feet (1524 mm) where a 2-hour fire barrier
interrupts the line of sight between equipment, other than
dispensers, and the exposure within the radial distance as
indicated by the tabular value. The height of the barrier
shall be a minimum of 6 feet ( 1 829 nmi), but not less than
1.5 times the height of the equipment, measured verti-
cally. The length of the wall shall be not less than 1.5
times the maximum diameter or length of the tank.
2209.3.1.2 Location of equipment. Equipment shall be
located from the enclosing walls at a distance not less
than one tank diameter. When horizontal tanks are used,
the distance from any one enclosing wall shall be not less
than one-half the length of the tank or a minimum of 5
feet (1524 mm).
2209.3.2 Location of dispensing operations and equip-
ment. Generation, compression, storage and dispensing
equipment shall be located in accordance with Sections I
2209.3.2.1 through 2209.3.2.6.3. I
TABLE 2209.3.1
MINIMUM SEPARATION FOR GASEOUS
HYDROGEN DISPENSERS, COMPRESSORS,
GENERATORS AND STORAGE VESSELS
OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT OR FEATURE
DISTANCE^
(feet)
Building — Noncombustible walls
10b,c
Building — Combustible walls
25b, c
Public sidewalks and parked vehicles
15b, c
Lot line
10"
Air intake openings
25''
Wall openings located less than 25 feet above grade
20'*
Wall openings located 25 feet or more above grade
25''
Outdoor public assembly
25"
Ignition source^
10
Above-ground flammable or combustible liquid
storage — diked in accordance with Section
3404.2.9.6, distance to dike wall
20
Above-ground flammable or combustible liquid
storage — not diked in accordance with Section
3404.2.9.6, distance to tank
50
Underground flammable or combustible liquid
storage — distance to vent or fill opening
20
Flammable gas storage (other than hydrogen) —
with emergency shutoff interconnected with the
hydrogen system
25
Above-ground flammable gas storage (other than
hydrogen) — without emergency shutoff
interconnected with the hydrogen system
50
Combustible waste material (see Section 304.1.1)
50"
Vertical plane of the nearest overhead electric wire
of an electric trolley, train or bus line
50
Vertical plane of the nearest wire of overhead
electrical power distribution lines
5
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^.
a. The applicability of tabular distance is in terms of a radius that defines a
hemisphere from the source when not interrupted by an intervening fire bar-
rier without through penetrations.
b. See Section 2209.3.1.1.
c. The dispenser and point of transfer for dispensing need not be separated
from canopies constructed in accordance with Section 406.5 of the Interna-
tional Building Code and constructed in a manner that prevents the accumu-
lation of hydrogen gas.
d. Measured along the natural and unobstructed line of travel (e.g., around pro-
tective walls, around comers of buildings).
e. Ignition sources include appliance burner igniters, hot work and hot surfaces
capable of igniting flammable vapors.
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2209.3.2.1 Outdoors. Generation, compression, storage
or dispensing equipment shall be allowed outdoors in
accordance with Section 2209.3.1.
2209.3.2.2 Weather protection. Generation, compres-
sion, storage or dispensing equipment shall be allowed
under weather protection in accordance with the require-
ments of Section 2704.13 and constructed in a manner
that prevents the accumulation of hydrogen gas.
2209.3.2.3 Indoors. Generation, compression, storage
and dispensing equipment shall be located in indoor
rooms or areas constructed in accordance with the
requirements of the International Building Code, the
International Fuel Gas Code and the International
Mechanical Code and one of the following:
1. Inside a building in a hydrogen cutoff room
designed and constructed in accordance with Sec-
tion 420 of the International Building Code.
2. Inside a building not in a hydrogen cutoff room
where the gaseous hydrogen system is listed and
labeled for indoor installation and installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
3. Inside a building in a dedicated hydrogen fuel dis-
pensing area having an aggregate hydrogen deliv-
ery capacity no greater than 12 standard cubic feet
per minute (SCFM) and designed and constructed
in accordance with Section 703.1 of the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code.
2209.3.2.3.1 Maintenance. Gaseous hydrogen sys-
tems and detection devices shall be maintained in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
2209.3.2.3.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited
in hydrogen cutoff rooms. "No Smoking" signs shall
be provided at all entrances to hydrogen cutoff rooms.
2209.3.2.3.3 Ignition source control. Open flames,
flame-producing devices and other sources of igni-
tion shall be controlled in accordance with Chapter
35.
2209.3.2.3.4 Housekeeping. Hydrogen cutoff rooms
shall be kept free from combustible debris and stor-
age.
2209.3.2.4 Gaseous hydrogen storage. Storage of gas-
eous hydrogen shall be in accordance with Chapters 30
and 35.
2209.3.2.5 Liquefied hydrogen storage. Storage of liq-
uefied hydrogen shall be in accordance with Chapter 32.
2209.3.2.5.1 Location on property. In addition to the
requirements of Section 2203.1, above-ground lique-
fied hydrogen storage containers, compression and
vaporization equipment serving motor fuel-dispens-
ing operations shall be located 25 feet (7620 mm)
from buildings having combustible exterior wall sur-
faces; buildings having noncombustible exterior wall
surfaces that are not part of a 1-hour fire-resis-
tance-rated assembly; wall openings; lot lines of
property that could be built on; public streets and
parked vehicles.
2209.3.2.5.1.1 Barrier wall construction-lique-
fied hydrogen. The outdoor separation distance
shall be permitted to be reduced to 5 feet (1524
mm) where a 2-hour fire barrier interrupts the line
of sight between equipment, other than dispensers,
and the exposure within the radial distance as indi-
cated by the tabular value. The height of the barrier
shall be a minimum of 6 feet (1829 mm) but no less
than 1 .5 times the height of equipment, other than
the cryogenic storage vessel, measured vertically.
The length of the wall shall be no less than 1.5
times the maximum diameter or length of the tank.
The 2-hour fire banier shall not have more than
two sides at approximately 90-degree (1.57 rad)
directions, or three sides with connecting angles of
approximately 135 degrees (2.36 rad). When fire
barrier walls on three sides are used, piping and
control systems serving stationary tanks shall be
located at the open side of the enclosure created by
the barrier walls.
2209.3.2.5.1.2 Location of equipment. Equip-
ment shall be located from the enclosing walls at a
distance not less than one tank diameter. When
horizontal tanks are used the distance from any one
enclosing wall shall be not less than one-half the
length of the tank or a minimum of 5 feet (1524
mm).
2209.3.2.6 Canopy tops. Gaseous hydrogen compres-
sion and storage equipment located on top of motor
fuel-dispensing facility canopies shall be in accordance
with Sections 2209.3.2.6.1 through 2209.3.2.6.3, Chap-
ters 30 and 35 and the International Fuel Gas Code.
2209.3.2.6.1 Construction. Canopies shall be con-
structed in accordance with the motor fuel-dispensing
facility canopy requirements of Section 406 of the
International Building Code.
2209.3.2.6.2 Fire-extinguishing systems. Fuel-dis-
pensing areas under canopies shall be equipped
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem in accordance with Section 903 .3 . 1.1. The design
of the sprinkler system shall not be less than that
required for Extra Hazard Group 2 occupancies.
Operation of the sprinkler system shall activate the
emergency functions of Sections 2209.3.2.6.2.1 and
2209.3.2.6.2.2.
2209.3.2.6.2.1 Emergency discharge. Operation
of the automatic sprinkler system shall activate an
automatic emergency discharge system, which
will discharge the hydrogen gas from the equip-
ment on the canopy top through the vent pipe sys-
tem.
2209.3.2.6.2.2 Emergency shutdown control.
Operation of the automatic sprinkler system shall
activate the emergency shutdown control required
by Section 2209.5.3.
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MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
2209.3.2.6.3 Signage. Approved signage having
2-inch (51 mm) block letters shall be affixed at
approved locations on the exterior of the canopy
structure stating: CANOPY TOP HYDROGEN
STORAGE.
2209.3.3 Canopies. Dispensing equipment need not be sep-
I arated from canopies of Type I or II construction that are
constructed in a manner that prevents the accumulation of
I hydrogen gas and in accordance with Section 406.5 of the
International Building Code.
2209.4 Dispensing into motor vehicles at self-service hydro-
gen motor fuel-dispensing facilities. Self-service hydrogen
motor fuel-dispensing systems, including key, code and card
lock dispensing systems, shall be limited to the filling of per-
manently mounted fuel containers on hydrogen-powered vehi-
cles.
In addition to the requirements in Section 2211, the owner of
a self-service hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing facihty shall
provide for the safe operation of the system through the institu-
tion of a fire safety plan submitted in accordance with Section
404, the training of employees and operators who use and
maintain the system in accordance with Section 406, and provi-
sions for hazard communication in accordance with Section
407.
2209.5 Safety precautions. Safety precautions at hydrogen
motor fuel-dispensing and generation facilities shall be in
accordance with Sections 2209.5.1 through 2209.5.4.3.6.
2209.5.1 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other
approved means shall be provided to protect hydrogen stor-
age systems and use areas subject to vehicular damage in
accordance with Section 312.
12209.5.2 Emergency shutoff valves. A manual emergency
shutoff valve shall be provided to shut down the flow of gas
from the hydrogen supply to the piping system.
2209.5.2.1 Identification. Manual emergency shutoff
valves shall be identified and the location shall be clearly
visible, accessible and indicated by means of a sign.
2209.5.3 Emergency shutdown controls. In addition to the
manual emergency shutoff valve required by Section
2209.5.2, a remotely located, manually activated emer-
gency shutdown control shall be provided. An emergency
shutdown control shall be located within 75 feet (22 860
mm) of, but not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from, dispens-
ers and hydrogen generators.
2209.5.3.1 System requirements. Activation of the
emergency shutdown control shall automatically shut off
the power supply to all hydrogen storage, compression
and dispensing equipment; shut off natural gas or other
fuel supply to the hydrogen generator; and close valves
between the main supply and the compressor and
between the storage containers and dispensing equip-
ment.
2209.5.4 Venting of hydrogen systems. Hydrogen systems
shall be equipped with pressure relief devices that will |
relieve excessive internal pressure in accordance with Sec-
tions 2209.5.4.1 through 2209.5.4.3.6. |
2209.5.4.1 Location of discharge. Hydrogen vented
from vent pipe systems serving pressure relief devices or
purging systems shall not be discharged inside buildings
or under canopies used for weather protection.
2209.5.4.2 Pressure relief devices. Portions of the sys-
tem subject to overpressure shall be protected by pres-
sure relief devices designed and installed in accordance
with the requirements of CGA S-1.1, S-1.2, S-1.3 or the
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, as applicable.
Containers used for the storage of liquefied hydrogen
shall be provided with pressure relief devices in accor-
dance with Section 3203.2.
Vent
Pipe
t
H
Vent
Pipe
i
1.25D
ground
Lot
Line
Structure
or
Equipment
t
H
i
Structure
or
Equipment
D
ground
H = Minimum height in feet of vent pipe above the ground or above any structure or equipment within distance (D) where personnel might be present.
D = Distance in feet to adjacent structure or equipment where personnel might be present.
FIGURE 2209.5.4.3.4
HYDROGEN VENT PIPE HEIGHT (H) VERSUS DISTANCE (D) REQUIREMENTS
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MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
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2209.5.4.2.1 Minimum rate of discharge. The mini-
mum flow capacity of pressure relief devices on
hydrogen storage containers shall be at least the
capacity required by Section 2209.5.4.2 or the capac-
ity required to accommodate a hydrogen compressor
that fails to shut down or unload, whichever is greater.
2209.5.4.3 Vent pipe. Stationary containers and tanks
shall be provided with a vent pipe system that will divert
gas discharged from pressure relief devices to the atmo-
sphere. Vent pipe systems serving pressure relief devices
and purging systems used for operational control shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with Sections
2209.5.4.3.1 through 2209.5.4.3.6.
2209.5.4.3.1 Materials of construction. The vent
pipe system shall be constructed of materials
approved for hydrogen service in accordance with
ASME B3 1 .3 for the rated pressure, volume and tem-
perature of gas to be transported. The vent piping
shall be designed for the maximum backpressure
within the pipe, but not less than 335 pounds per
square inch gauge (psig) (2310 kPa).
2209.5.4.3.2 Structural support. The vent pipe sys-
tem shall be supported to prevent structural collapse
and shall be provided with a rain cap or other feature
that would not limit or obstruct the gas flow from
venting vertically upward.
2209.5.4.3.3 Obstructions. A means shall be provided
to prevent water, ice and other debris from accumulating
inside the vent pipe or obstructing the vent pipe.
2209.5.4.3.4 Height of vent and separation. The
height (//) and separation distance (D) of the vent pipe
shall meet the criteria set forth in Table 2209.5.4.3.4
for the combinations of maximum hydrogen flow
rates and vent stack opening diameters listed. Alter-
native venting systems shall be allowed when in
accordance with Section 2209.5.4.3.6.
2209.5.4.3.5 Maximum flow rate. The vent pipe sys-
tem shall be sized based on the maximum flow rate for
the system served and be specified on the construction
documents. The maximum flow rate shall be deter-
mined in accordance with the requirements of CGA
S-1.3 using the aggregate gas flow rate from all con-
nected vent, purge and relief devices that operate simul-
taneously during a venting operation, purging operation
or emergency relief event.
2209.5.4.3.6 Alternative venting systems. Where
alternative venting systems are used in lieu of the
requirements of Section 2209.5.4.3.5, an analysis of
radiant heat exposures and hydrogen concentrations
shall be provided. The analysis of exposure to radiant
heat shall assume a wind speed of 30 feet/second
(9.14 m/sec) and provide a design that limits radiant
heat exposure to the maximum values shown in Table
2209.5.4.3.6(1). The analysis of exposure to hydro-
gen concentration shall provide a design that limits
the maximum hydrogen concentration to the values
shown in Table 2209.5.4.3.6(2).
SECTION 2210
MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES
2210.1 General. The construction of marine motor fuel-dis-
pensing facilities shall be in accordance with the International
Building Code andNFPA 30A. The storage of Class I, II or fllA
liquids at marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be in
accordance with this chapter and Chapter 34.
2210.2 Storage and handling. The storage and handling of
Class I, II or IIIA hquids at marine motor fuel-dispensing facil-
ities shall be in accordance with Sections 2210.2.1 through
2210.2.3.
TABLE 2209.5.4.3.4
VENT PIPE HEIGHT AND SEPARATION DISTANCE
VERSUS HYDROGEN FLOW RATE AND VENT PIPE DIAMETER ^'"='''«'
HYDROGEN
FLOW RATE
< 500 CFM
at NTP9
> 500 to < 1,000 CFM
at NTP9
> 1,000 to < 2,000
CFM at NTP9
> 2,000 to < 5,000
CFM at NTP''
> 5,000 to < 10,000
CFM at NTP"
> 10,000 to < 20,000
CFM at NTP"
Height (ft)
8
8
12
17
25
36
Distance (ft)
13
17
26
40
53
81
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 Btu/ft^ = 3.153W/m2, 1 foot/second = 304.8 mm/sec.
a. Minimum distance to property line is 1.25D.
b. Designs seeking to achieve greater heights with commensurate reductions in separation distances shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tice.
c. With this table personnel on the ground or on the building and/or equipment are exposed to a maximum of 1 ,500 Btu/hr. ft'^jand are assumed to be provided with a
means to escape to a shielded area within 3 minutes, including the case of a 30 ft./sec. wind.
d. Designs seeking to achieve greater radiant exposures to noncombustible equipment shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
e. The analysis reflected in this table does not permit hydrogen air mixtures that would exceed one-half of the lower flammable limit (LFL) for hydrogen (2 percent by
volume) at the building or equipment, including the case of a 30 ft./sec. wind.
f. See Figure 2209.5.4.3.4.
g. For vent pipe diameters up to and including 2 inches.
h. For vent pipe diameters up to and including 3 inches.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
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MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
TABLE 2209.5.4.3.6(1)
MAXIMUM RADIANT HEAT EXPOSURE
EXPOSED OBJECT
MAXIMUM RADIANT HEAT
TIME DURATION (minutes)
Personnel
1,500 Btu/hr-ft2 (4732 W/m^)
3
Noncombustible equipment
8,000 Btu/hr-ft^ (25 237 W/m^)
Any
Lot line
500 Btu/hr-ft2 (1577 W/m2)
Any
TABLE 2209.5.4.3.6(2)
MAXIMUM HYDROGEN CONCENTRATION EXPOSURE
EXPOSED OBJECT
MAXIMUM HYDROGEN CONCENTRATION
Personnel, buildings or equipment
50% LFL within a distance of D and H of Table 2209.5.4.3.4
Lot line
50% LFL within 1.25 times the distance of D and H of Table 2209.5.4.3.4
2210.2.1 Class I, II or IIIA liquid storage. Class I, II or
III A liquids stored inside of buildings used for marine motor
fuel-dispensing facilities shall be stored in approved con-
tainers or portable tanks. Storage of Class I liquids shall not
exceed 10 gallons (38 L).
Exception: Storage in liquid storage rooms in accor-
dance with Section 3404.3.7.
2210.2.2 Class II or IIIA liquid storage and dispensing.
Class II or IIIA liquids stored or dispensed inside of build-
ings used for marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall
be stored in and dispensed from approved containers or por-
table tanks. Storage of Class II and IIIA liquids shall not
exceed 120 gallons (454 L).
2210.2.3 Heating equipment. Heating equipment installed
in Class I, II or IIIA liquid storage or dispensing areas shall
comply with Section 2201.6.
2210.3 Dispensing. The dispensing of liquid fuels at marine
motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall comply with Sections
2210.3.1 through 2210.3.5.
2210.3.1 General. Wharves, piers or floats at marine motor
fuel-dispensing facilities shall be used exclusively for the
dispensing or transfer of petroleum products to or from
marine craft, except that transfer of essential ship stores is
allowed.
2210.3.2 Supervision. Marine motor fuel-dispensing facil-
ities shall have an attendant or supervisor who is fully aware
of the operation, mechanics and hazards inherent to fueling
of boats on duty whenever the facility is open for business.
The attendant's primary function shall be to supervise,
observe and control the dispensing of Class I, II or IIIA hq-
uids or flammable gases.
2210.3.3 Hoses and nozzles. Dispensing of Class I, II or
IIIA liquids into the fuel tanks of marine craft shall be by
means of an approved-type hose equipped with a listed
automatic-closing nozzle without a latch-open device.
Hoses used for dispensing or transferring Class I, II or
IIIA liquids, when not in use, shall be reeled, racked or oth-
erwise protected from mechanical damage.
2210.3.4 Portable containers. Class I, II or IIIA liquids
shall not be dispensed into a portable container unless such
container is approved.
2210.3.5 Liquefied petroleum gas. Liquefied petroleum
gas cylinders shall not be filled at marine motor fuel-dis-
pensing facilities unless approved. Approved storage facili-
ties for LP-gas cylinders shall be provided. See also Section
2207.
2210.4 Fueling of marine vehicles at other than approved
marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities. Fueling of floating
marine craft with Class I fuels at other than a marine motor
fuel-dispensing facility is prohibited. Fueling of floating
marine craft with Class II or III fuels at other than a marine
motor fuel-dispensing facility shall be in accordance with all of
the following:
1. The premises and operations shall be approved by the
fire code official.
2. Tank vehicles and fueling operations shall comply with
Section 3406.6.
3. The dispensing nozzle shall be of the listed auto-
matic-closing type without a latch-open device.
4. Nighttime deliveries shall only be made in lighted areas.
5 . The tank vehicle flasher lights shall be in operation while
dispensing.
6. Fuel expansion space shall be left in each fuel tank to pre-
vent overflow in the event of temperature increase.
2210.5 Fire prevention regulations. General fire safety regu-
lations for marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall comply
with Sections 2210.5.1 through 2210.5.7.
2210.5.1 Housekeeping. Marine motor fuel-dispensing
facilities shall be maintained in a neat and orderly manner.
Accumulations of rubbish or waste oils in excessive
amounts shall be prohibited.
2210.5.2 Spills. Spills of Class I, II or IIIA liquids at or on
the water shall be reported immediately to the fire depart-
ment and jurisdictional authorities.
2210.5.3 Rubbish containers. Metal containers with
tight-fitting or self-closing metal lids shall be provided for
the temporary storage of combustible trash or rubbish.
2210.5.4 Marine vessels and craft. Vessels or craft shall
not be made fast to fuel docks serving other vessels or craft
occupying a berth at a marine motor fuel-dispensing facility.
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2210.5.5 Sources of ignition. Construction, maintenance,
repair and reconditioning work involving the use of open
flames, arcs or spark-producing devices shall not be per-
formed at marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities or within
50 feet (15 240 mm) of the dispensing facilities, including
piers, wharves or floats, except for emergency repair work
approved in writing by the fire code official. Fueling shall
not be conducted at the pier, wharf or float during the course
of such emergency repairs.
2210.5.5.1 Smoking. Smoking or open flames shall be
prohibited within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of fueling opera-
tions. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310
shall be posted conspicuously about the premises. Such
signs shall have letters not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in
height on a background of contrasting color.
2210.5.6 Preparation of tanks for fueling. Boat owners
and operators shall not offer their craft for fueling unless the
tanks being filled are properly vented to dissipate fumes to
the outside atmosphere.
2210.5.7 Warning signs. Warning signs shall be promi-
nently displayed at the face of each wharf, pier or float at
such elevation as to be clearly visible from the decks of
marine craft being fueled. Such signs shall have letters not
less than 3 inches (76 mm) in height on a background of
contrasting color bearing the following or approved equiva-
lent wording:
WARNING
NO SMOKING— STOP ENGINE WHILE FUELING,
SHUT OFF ELECTRICITY.
DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL AFTER BELOW
DECK SPACES ARE VENTILATED.
2210.6 Fire protection. Fire protection features for marine
motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall comply with Sections
2210.6.1 through 2210.6.4.
2210.6.1 Standpipe hose stations. Fire hose, where pro-
vided, shall be enclosed within a cabinet, and hose stations
shall be labeled: FIRE HOSE— EMERGENCY USE
ONLY.
2210.6.2 Obstruction of fire protection equipment.
Materials shall not be placed on a pier in such a manner as to
obstruct access to fire-fighting equipment or piping system
control valves.
2210.6.3 Access. Where the pier is accessible to vehicular
traffic, an unobstructed roadway to the shore end of the
wharf shall be maintained for access by fire apparatus.
2210.6.4 Portable fire extinguisliers. Portable fire
extinguishers in accordance with Section 906, each having a
minimum rating of 20-B:C, shall be provided as follows:
1 . One on each float.
2. One on the pier or wharf within 25 feet (7620 mm) of
the head of the gangway to the float, unless the office
is within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the gangway or is on
the float and an extinguisher is provided thereon.
SECTION 2211
REPAIR GARAGES
2211.1 General. Repair garages shall comply with this section
and the International Building Code. Repair garages for vehi-
cles that use more than one type of fuel shall comply with the
applicable provisions of this section for each type of fuel used.
Where a repair garage also includes a motor fuel-dispensing
facility, the fuel-dispensing operation shall comply with the
requirements of this chapter for motor fuel-dispensing facili-
ties.
2211.2 Storage and use of flammable and combustible liq-
uids. The storage and use of flammable and combustible liq-
uids in repair garages shall comply with Chapter 34 and
Sections 2211.2.1 through 2211.2.4.
2211.2.1 Cleaning of parts. Cleaning of parts shall be con-
ducted in listed and approved parts-cleaning machines in
accordance with Chapter 34.
2211.2.2 Waste oil, motor oil and other Class IIIB liq-
uids. Waste oil, motor oil and other Class IIIB liquids shall
be stored in approved tanks or containers, which are allowed
to be stored and dispensed from inside repair garages.
2211.2.2.1 Tank location. Tanks storing Class IIIB hq-
uids in repair garages are allowed to be located at, below
or above grade, provided that adequate drainage or con-
tainment is provided.
2211.2.2.2 Liquid classification. Crankcase drainings
shall be classified as Class IIIB liquids unless otherwise
determined by testing.
2211.2.3 Drainage and disposal of liquids and oil-soaked
waste. Garage floor drains, where provided, shall drain to
approved oil separators or traps discharging to a sewer in
accordance with the International Plumbing Code. Con-
tents of oil separators, traps and floor drainage systems shall
be collected at sufficiently frequent intervals and removed
from the premises to prevent oil from being carried into the
sewers.
2211.2.3.1 Disposal of liquids. Crankcase drainings and
liquids shall not be dumped into sewers, streams or on
the ground, but shall be stored in approved tanks or con-
tainers in accordance with Chapter 34 until removed
from the premises.
2211.2.3.2 Disposal of oily waste. Self-closing metal
cans shall be used for oily waste.
2211.2.4 Spray finishing. Spray finishing with flammable
or combustible liquids shall comply with Chapter 15.
2211.3 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall not be
located within 18 inches (457 mm) of the floor and shall com-
ply with Chapters 3 and 26.
2211.3.1 Equipment. Apphances and equipment installed
in a repair garage shall comply with the provisions of the
International Building Code, the International Mechanical
Code and the ICC Electrical Code.
2211.3.2 Smoking. Smoking shall not be allowed in repair
garages except in approved locations.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
211
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
2211.4 Below-grade areas. Pits and below-grade work areas
in repair garages shall comply with Sections 22 11. 4.1 through
2211.4.3.
2211.4.1 Construction. Pits and below-grade work areas
shall be constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code.
2211.4.2 Means of egress. Pits and below-grade work areas
shall be provided with means of egress in accordance with
Chapter 10.
2211.4.3 Ventilation. Where Class I Hquids or LP-gas are
stored or used within a building having a basement or pit
wherein flammable vapors could accumulate, the basement
or pit shall be provided with mechanical ventilation in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code, at a
minimum rate of 1.5 cubic feet per minute per square foot
(cfm/ft^) [0.008 mV(s • m^)] to prevent the accumulation of
flammable vapors.
2211.5 Preparation of veliicles for repair. For vehicles pow-
ered by gaseous fuels, the fuel shutoff valves shall be closed
prior to repairing any portion of the vehicle fuel system.
Vehicles powered by gaseous fuels in which the fuel system
has been damaged shall be inspected and evaluated for fuel sys-
tem integrity prior to being brought into the repair garage. The
inspection shall include testing of the entire fuel delivery sys-
tem for leakage.
2211.6 Fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section 906.
2211.7 Repair garages for vehicles fueled by
lighter-than-air fuels. Repair garages for the conversion and
repair of vehicles which use CNG, liquefied natural gas (LNG),
hydrogen or other lighter-than-air motor fuels shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2211.7 through 2211.7.2.3 in addition to
the other requirements of Section 22 11.
Exception: Repair garages where work is not performed on
the fuel system and is limited to exchange of parts and main-
tenance requiring no open flame or welding.
2211.7.1 Ventilation. Repair garages used for the repair of
natural gas- or hydrogen-fueled vehicles shall be provided
with an approved mechanical ventilation system. The
mechanical ventilation system shall be in accordance with
the International Mechanical Code and Sections 221 1 .7. 1 . 1
and 2211.7.1.2.
Exception: Repair garages with natural ventilation
when approved.
2211.7.1.1 Design. Indoor locations shall be ventilated
utilizing air supply inlets and exhaust outlets arranged to
provide uniform air movement to the extent practical.
Inlets shall be uniformly arranged on exterior walls near
floor level. Outlets shall be located at the high point of
the room in exterior walls or the roof.
Ventilation shall be by a continuous mechanical venti-
lation system or by a mechanical ventilation system acti-
vated by a continuously monitoring natural gas detection
system or, for hydrogen, a continuously monitoring
flammable gas detection system, each activating at a gas
concentration of not more than 25 percent of the lower
flammable limit (LFL). In all cases, the system shall shut
down the fueling system in the event of failure of the ven-
tilation system.
The ventilation rate shall be at least 1 cubic foot per
minute per 12 cubic feet (0.00139 m^ x m^) of room vol-
ume.
2211.7.1.2 Operation. The mechanical ventilation sys-
tem shall operate continuously.
Exceptions:
1 . Mechanical ventilation systems that are inter-
locked with a gas detection system designed in
accordance with Sections 2211.7.2 through
2211.7.2.3.
2. Mechanical ventilation systems in repair
garages that are used only for repair of vehicles
fueled by liquid fuels or odorized gases, such as
CNG, where the ventilation system is electri-
cally interlocked with the lighting circuit.
2211.7.2 Gas detection system. Repair garages used for
repair of vehicles fueled by nonodorized gases, such as
hydrogen and nonodorized LNG, shall be provided with an
approved flammable gas detection system.
2211.7.2.1 System design. The flammable gas detection
system shall be calibrated to the types of fuels or gases
used by vehicles to be repaired. The gas detection system
shall be designed to activate when the level of flammable
gas exceeds 25 percent of the lower flammable limit
(LFL). Gas detection shall also be provided in lubrica-
tion or chassis repair pits of repair garages used for
repairing nonodorized LNG-fueled vehicles.
2211.7.2.2 Operation. Activation of the gas detection
system shall result in all the following:
1 . Initiation of distinct audible and visual alarm sig-
nals in the repair garage.
2. Deactivation of all heating systems located in the
repair garage.
3. Activation of the mechanical ventilation system,
when the system is interlocked with gas detection.
2211.7.2.3 Failure of the gas detection system. Failure
of the gas detection system shall result in the deactivation
of the heating system, activation of the mechanical venti-
lation system and where the system is interlocked with
gas detection and causes a trouble signal to sound in an
approved location.
2211.8 Defueling of hydrogen from motor vehicle fuel stor-
age containers. The discharge or defueling of hydrogen from
motor vehicle fuel storage tanks for the purpose of mainte-
nance, cylinder certification, calibration of dispensers or other
activities shall be in accordance with Sections 2211.8.1
through 2211.8.1.2.4.
2211.8.1 Methods of discharge. The discharge of hydro-
gen from motor vehicle fuel storage tanks shall be accom-
plished through a closed transfer system in accordance with
<•
212
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
Section 221 1.8.1.1 or an approved method of atmospheric
venting in accordance with Section 2211.8.1.2.
2211.8.1.1 Closed transfer system. A documented pro-
cedure that explains the logic sequence for discharging
the storage tank shall be provided to the code official for
review and approval. The procedure shall include what
actions the operator is required to take in the event of a
low-pressure or high-pressure hydrogen release during
discharging activity. Schematic design documents shall
be provided illustrating the arrangement of piping, regu-
lators and equipment settings. The construction docu-
ments shall illustrate the piping and regulator
arrangement and shall be shown in spatial relation to the
location of the compressor, storage vessels and emer-
gency shutdown devices.
2211.8.1.2 Atmospheric venting of hydrogen from
motor vehicle fuel storage containers. When atmo-
spheric venting is used for the discharge of hydrogen
from motor vehicle fuel storage tanks , such venting shall
be in accordance with Sections 2211.8.1.2.1 through
2211.8.1.2.4.
2211.8.1.2.1 Defueling equipment required at
vehicle maintenance and repair facilities. All facili-
ties for repairing hydrogen systems on hydrogen-
fueled vehicles shall have equipment to defuel vehicle
storage tanks. Equipment used for defueling shall be
listed and labeled for the intended use.
2211.8.1.2.1.1 Manufacturer's equipment
required. Equipment supplied by the vehicle man-
ufacturer shall be used to connect the vehicle stor-
age tanks to be defueled to the vent pipe system.
2211.8.1.2.1.2 Vent pipe maximum diameter.
Defueling vent pipes shall have a maximum inside
diameter of 1 inch (25 mm) and be installed in
accordance with Section 2209.5.4.
2211.8.1.2.1.3 Maximum flow rate. The maxi-
mum rate of hydrogen flow through the vent pipe
system shall not exceed 1,000 cfm at NTP (0.47
mVs) and shall be controlled by means of the man-
ufacturer's equipment, at low pressure and without
adjustment.
2211.8.1.2.1.4 Isolated use. The vent pipe used
for defueling shall not be connected to another
venting system used for any other purpose.
2211.8.1.2.2 Construction documents. Construc-
tion documents shall be provided illustrating the
defueling system to be utilized. Plan details shall be of
sufficient detail and clarity to allow for evaluation of
the piping and control systems to be utilized and
include the method of support for cylinders, contain-
ers or tanks to be used as part of a closed transfer sys-
tem, the method of grounding and bonding, and other
requirements specified herein.
2211.8.1.2.3 Stability of cylinders, containers and
tanks. A method of rigidly supporting cylinders, con-
tainers or tanks used during the closed transfer system
discharge or defueling of hydrogen shall be provided.
The method shall provide not less than two points of
support and shall be designed to resist lateral move-
ment of the receiving cylinder, container or tank. The
system shall be designed to resist movement of the
receiver based on the highest gas-release velocity
through valve orifices at the receiver's rated service
pressure and volume. Supporting structure or appur-
tenance used to support receivers shall be constructed
of noncombustible materials in accordance with the
International Building Code.
2211.8.1.2.4 Grounding and bonding. Cylinders,
containers or tanks and piping systems used for
defueling shall be bonded and grounded. Structures
or appurtenances used for supporting the cylinders,
containers or tanks shall be grounded in accordance
with the ICC Electrical Code. The valve of the vehicle
storage tank shall be bonded with the defueling sys-
tem prior to the commencement of discharge or
defueling operations.
2211.8.2 Repair of hydrogen piping. Piping systems con-
taining hydrogen shall not be opened to the atmosphere for
repair without first purging the piping with an inert gas to
achieve 1 percent hydrogen or less by volume. Defueling
operations and exiting purge flow shall be vented in accor-
dance with Section 2211.8.1.2.
2211.8.3 Purging. Each individual manufactured compo-
nent of a hydrogen generating, compression, storage or dis-
pensing system shall have a label affixed as well as a
description in the installation and owner's manuals describ-
ing the procedure for purging air from the system during
startup, regular maintenance and for purging hydrogen from
the system prior to disassembly (to admit air).
For the interconnecting piping between the individual
manufactured components, the pressure rating must be at
least 20 times the absolute pressure present in the piping
when any hydrogen meets any air.
2211.8.3.1 System purge required. After installation,
repair or maintenance, the hydrogen piping system shall
be purged of air in accordance with the manufacturer's
procedure for purging air from the system.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
213
214 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 23
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
SECTION 2301
GENERAL
2301.1 Scope. High-piled combustible storage shall be in
accordance with this chapter. In addition to the requirements of
this chapter, the following material-specific requirements shall
apply:
1. Aerosols shall be in accordance with Chapter 28.
2. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 34.
3 . Hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Chapter
27.
4. Storage of combustible paper records shall be in accor-
I dance with NFPA 1 3 and NFPA 230.
5 . Storage of combustible fibers shall be in accordance with
Chapter 29.
6. Storage of miscellaneous combustible material shall be
in accordance with Chapter 3.
2301.2 Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
2301.3 Construction documents. At the time of building per-
mit application for new structures designed to accommodate
high-piled storage or for requesting a change of occu-
pancy/use, and at the time of application for a storage permit,
plans and specifications shall be submitted for review and
approval. In addition to the information required by the Inter-
national Building Code, the storage permit submittal shall
include the information specified in this section. Following
approval of the plans, a copy of the approved plans shall be
maintained on the premises in an approved location. The plans
shall include the following:
1. Floor plan of the building showing locations and
dimensions of high-piled storage areas.
2. Usable storage height for each storage area.
3. Number of tiers within each rack, if applicable.
4. Commodity clearance between top of storage and the
sprinkler deflector for each storage arrangement.
5. Aisle dimensions between each storage array.
6. Maximum pile volume for each storage array.
7. Location and classification of commodities in accor-
dance with Section 2303.
8. Location of commodities which are banded or encapsu-
lated.
9. Location of required fire department access doors.
10. Type of fire suppression and fire detection systems.
1 1 . Location of valves controlling the water supply of ceil-
ing and in-rack sprinklers.
12. Type, location and specifications of smoke removal
and curtain board systems.
13. Dimension and location of transverse and longitudinal
flue spaces.
14. Additional information regarding required design fea-
tures, commodities, storage arrangement and fire pro-
tection features within the high-piled storage area shall
be provided at the time of permit, when required by the
fire code official.
2301.4 Evacuation plan. When required by the fire code offi-
cial, an evacuation plan for public accessible areas and a sepa-
rate set of plans indicating location and width of aisles, location
of exits, exit access doors, exit signs, height of storage, and
locations of hazardous materials shall be submitted at the time
of permit application for review and approval. Following
approval of the plans, a copy of the approved plans shall be
maintained on the premises in an approved location.
SECTION 2302
DEFINITIONS
2302.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ARRAY. The configuration of storage. Characteristics consid-
ered in defining an array include the type of packaging, flue
spaces, height of storage and compactness of storage.
ARRAY, CLOSED. A storage configuration having a 6-inch
(152 mm) or smaller width vertical flue space that restricts air
movement through the stored commodity.
BIN BOX. A five-sided container with the open side facing an
aisle. Bin boxes are self-supporting or supported by a structure
designed so that little or no horizontal or vertical space exists
around the boxes.
COMMODITY. A combination of products, packing materi-
als and containers.
DRAFT CURTAIN. A structure arranged to limit the spread
of smoke and heat along the underside of the ceiling or roof.
EARLY SUPPRESSION FAST-RESPONSE (ESFR)
SPRINKLER. A sprinkler listed for early suppression
fast-response performance.
EXPANDED PLASTIC. A foam or cellular plastic material
having a reduced density based on the presence of numerous
small cavities or cells dispersed throughout the material.
EXTRA-HIGH-RACK COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE.
Storage on racks of Class I, II, III or IV commodities which
exceed 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height and storage on racks of
high-hazard commodities which exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) in
height.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
215
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. Storage of
combustible materials in closely packed piles or combustible
materials on pallets, in racks or on shelves where the top of
storage is greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) in height. When
required by the fire code official, high-piled combustible stor-
age also includes certain high-hazard commodities, such as
rubber tires. Group A plastics, flammable liquids, idle pallets
and similar commodities, where the top of storage is greater
than 6 feet (1829 mm) in height.
HIGH-PILED STORAGE AREA. An area within a building
which is designated, intended, proposed or actually used for
high-piled combustible storage.
LONGITUDINAL FLUE SPACE. The flue space between
rows of storage perpendicular to the direction of loading.
MANUAL STOCKING METHODS. Stocking methods uti-
lizing ladders or other nonmechanical equipment to move
stock.
MECHANICAL STOCKING METHODS. Stocking meth
ods utilizing motorized vehicles or hydraulic jacks to move
stock.
SHELF STORAGE. Storage on shelves less than 30 inches
(762 mm) deep with the distance between shelves not exceed-
ing 3 feet (914 mm) vertically. For other shelving arrange-
ments, see the requirements for rack storage.
SOLID SHELVING. Shelving that is solid, slatted or of other
construction located in racks and which obstructs sprinkler dis-
charge down into the racks.
TRANSVERSE FLUE SPACE. The space between rows of
storage parallel to the direction of loading.
SECTION 2303
COMMODITY CLASSIFICATION
2303.1 Classification of commodities. Commodities shall be
classified as Class I, II, III, IV or high hazard in accordance
with this section. Materials listed within each commodity clas-
sification are assumed to be unmodified for improved combus-
tibility characteristics. Use of flame-retarding modifiers or the
physical form of the material could change the classification.
See Section 2303.7 for classification of Group A, B and C plas-
tics.
2303.2 Class I commodities. Class I commodities are essen-
tially noncombustible products on wooden or nonexpanded
polyethylene solid deck pallets, in ordinary corrugated cartons
with or without single-thickness dividers, or in ordinary paper
wrappings with or without pallets. Class I commodities are
allowed to contain a limited amount of Group A plastics in
accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class I com-
modities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-percent alcohol
Appliances noncombustible, electrical
Cement in bags
Ceramics
Dairy products in nonwax-coated containers (excluding
botdes)
Dry insecticides
Foods in noncombustible containers
Fresh fruits and vegetables in nonplastic trays or containers
Frozen foods
Glass
Glycol in metal cans
Gypsum board
Inert materials, bagged
Insulation, noncombustible
Noncombustible liquids in plastic containers having less
than a 5-gallon (19 L) capacity
Noncombustible metal products
2303.3 Class II commodities. Class II commodities are Class I
products in slatted wooden crates, solid wooden boxes, multi-
ple-thickness paperboard cartons or equivalent combustible
packaging material with or without pallets. Class II commodi-
ties are allowed to contain a limited amount of Group A plastics
in accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class II
commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-percent alcohol, in
combustible containers
Foods in combustible containers
Incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs in cartons
Thinly coated fine wire on reels or in cartons
2303.4 Class III commodities. Class III commodities are
commodities of wood, paper, natural fiber cloth, or Group C
plastics or products thereof, with or without pallets. Products
are allowed to contain limited amounts of Group A or B plas-
tics, such as metal bicycles with plastic handles, pedals, seats
and tires. Group A plastics shall be limited in accordance with
Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class III commodities include,
but are not limited to, the following:
Aerosol, Level 1 (see Chapter 28)
Combustible fiberboard
Cork, baled
Feed, bagged
Fertilizers, bagged
Food in plastic containers
Furniture: wood, natural fiber, upholstered, nonplastic,
wood or metal with plastic-padded and covered arm rests
Glycol in combustible containers not exceeding 25 percent
Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in metal cans
Lumber
Mattresses, excluding foam rubber and foam plastics
Noncombustible liquids in plastic containers having a
capacity of more than 5 gallons (19 L)
Paints, oil base, in metal cans
Paper, waste, baled
216
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
Paper and pulp, horizontal storage, or vertical storage that is
banded or protected with approved wrap
Paper in cardboard boxes
Pillows, excluding foam rubber and foam plastics
Plastic-coated paper food containers
Plywood
Rags, baled
Rugs, without foam backing
Sugar, bagged
Wood, baled
Wood doors, frames and cabinets
Yams of natural fiber and viscose
2303.5 Class IV commodities. Class IV commodities are
Class I, II or III products containing Group A plastics in ordi-
nary corrugated cartons and Class 1, 11 and III products, with
Group A plastic packaging, with or without pallets. Group B
plastics and free-flowing Group A plastics are also included in
this class. The total amount of nonfree-flowing Group A plas-
tics shall be in accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of
Class IV commodities include, but are not limited to, the fol-
lowing:
Aerosol, Level 2 (see Chapter 28)
Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 20-percent but less than
80-percent alcohol, in cans or bottles in cartons.
Clothing, synthetic or nonviscose
Combustible metal products (solid)
Furniture, plastic upholstered
Furniture, wood or metal with plastic covering and padding
Glycol in combustible containers (greater than 25 percent
and less than 50 percent)
Linoleum products
Paints, oil base in combustible containers
Pharmaceutical, alcoholic elixirs, tonics, etc.
Rugs, foam back
Shingles, asphalt
Thread or yam, synthetic or nonviscose
2303.6 High-hazard commodities. High-hazard commodi-
ties are high-hazard products presenting special fire hazards
beyond those of Class I, II, III or IV. Group A plastics not other-
wise classified are included in this class. Examples of
high-hazard commodities include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Aerosol, Level 3 (see Chapter 28)
Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 80-percent alcohol, in bot-
tles or cartons
Commodities of any class in plastic containers in carousel
storage
Flammable solids (except solid combustible metals)
Glycol in combustible containers (50 percent or greater)
Lacquers, which dry by solvent evaporation, in metal cans
or cartons
Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in plastic containers
Mattresses, foam mbber or foam plastics
Pallets and flats which are idle combustible
Paper, asphalt, rolled, horizontal storage
Paper, asphalt, rolled, vertical storage
Paper and pulp, rolled, in vertical storage which is unhanded
or not protected with an approved wrap
Pillows, foam mbber and foam plastics
Pyroxylin
Rubber tires
Vegetable oil and butter in plastic containers
2303.7 Classification of plastics. Plastics shall be designated
as Group A, B or C in accordance with this section.
2303.7.1 Group A plastics. Group A plastics are plastic
materials having a heat of combustion that is much higher
than that of ordinary combustibles, and a burning rate higher
than that of Group B plastics. Examples of Group A plastics
include, but are not limited to, the following:
ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer)
Acetal (polyformaldehyde)
Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate)
Butyl mbber
EPDM (ethylene propylene mbber)
FRP (fiberglass-reinforced polyester)
Natural mbber (expanded)
Nitrile mbber (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber)
PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
Polybutadiene
Polycarbonate
Polyester elastomer
Polyethylene
Polypropylene
Polystyrene (expanded and unexpanded)
Polyurethane (expanded and unexpanded)
PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 15 percent
plasticized, e.g., coated fabric unsupported film)
SAN (styrene acrylonitrile)
SBR (styrene butadiene mbber)
2303.7.2 Group B plastics. Group B plastics are plastic
materials having a heat of combustion and a buming rate
higher than that of ordinary combustibles, but not as high as
those of Group A plastics. Examples of Group B plastics
include, but are not limited to, the following:
Cellulosics (cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate,
ethyl cellulose)
Chloroprene mbber
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
217
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
Fluoroplastics (ECTFE, ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene
copolymer; ETFE, ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copoly-
mer; FEP, fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer)
Natural rubber (nonexpanded)
Nylon (Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6)
PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 5 -percent, but not
exceeding 15 -percent plasticized)
Silicone rubber
2303.7.3 Group C plastics. Group C plastics are plastic
materials having a heat of combustion and a burning rate
similar to those of ordinary combustibles. Examples of
Group C plastics include, but are not limited to, the follow-
ing:
Fluoroplastics (PCTFE, polychlorotrifluoroethylene;
PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene)
Melamine (melamine formaldehyde)
Phenol
PVC (polyvinyl chloride, rigid or plasticized less than 5
percent, e.g., pipe, pipe fittings)
PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride)
PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)
PVF (polyvinyl fluoride)
Urea (urea formaldehyde)
2303.7.4 Limited quantities of Group A plastics in mixed
commodities. Figure 2303.7.4 shall be used to determine
the quantity of Group A plastics allowed to be stored in a
package or carton or on a pallet without increasing the com-
modity classification.
SECTION 2304
DESIGNATION OF HIGH-PILED STORAGE AREAS
2304.1 General. High-piled storage areas, and portions of
high-piled storage areas intended for storage of a different
commodity class than adjacent areas, shall be designed and
specifically designated to contain Class I, Class II, Class III,
Class IV or high-hazard commodities. The designation of a
high-piled combustible storage area, or portion thereof
intended for storage of a different commodity class, shall be
based on the highest hazard commodity class stored except as
provided in Section 2304.2.
2304.2 Designation based on engineering analysis. The des-
ignation of a high-piled combustible storage area, or portion
thereof, is allowed to be based on a lower hazard class than that
of the highest class of commodity stored when a limited quan-
tity of the higher hazard commodity has been demonstrated by
engineering analysis to be adequately protected by the auto-
matic sprinkler system provided. The engineering analysis
shall consider the ability of the sprinkler system to deliver the
higher density required by the higher hazard commodity. The
higher density shall be based on the actual storage height of the
pile or rack and the minimum allowable design area for sprin-
kler operation as set forth in the density /area figures provided
in NFPA 13. The contiguous area occupied by the higher haz-
ard commodity shall not exceed 120 square feet (111 m^) and
additional areas of higher hazard commodity shall be separated
from other such areas by 25 feet (7620 mm) or more. The sprin-
kler system shall be capable of delivering the higher density
over a minimum area of 900 square feet (84 m^) for wet pipe
systems and 1,200 square feet (11 m^) for dry pipe systems.
The shape of the design area shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion 903.
SECTION 2305
HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE
2305.1 Rack structures. The structural integrity of racks shall
be maintained.
2305.2 Ignition sources. Clearance from ignition sources shall
be provided in accordance with Section 305.
2305.3 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited. Approved "No
Smoking" signs shall be conspicuously posted in accordance
with Section 310.
2305.4 Aisle maintenance. When restocking is not being con-
ducted, aisles shall be kept clear of storage, waste material and
debris. Fire department access doors, aisles and exit doors shall
not be obstructed. During restocking operations using manual
stocking methods, a minimum unobstructed aisle width of 24
inches (610 mm) shall be maintained in 48-inch (1219 mm) or
smaller aisles, and a minimum unobstructed aisle width of
one-half of the required aisle width shall be maintained in
aisles greater than 48 inches (1219 mm). During mechanical
stocking operations, a minimum unobstructed aisle width of 44
inches (1118 mm) shall be maintained in accordance with Sec-
tion 2306.9.
2305.5 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimen-
sions and height limitations shall comply with Section 2307.3.
2305.6 Arrays. Arrays shall comply with Section 2307.4.
2305.7 Flue spaces. Flue spaces shall comply with Section
2308.3.
SECTION 2306
GENERAL FIRE PROTECTION AND
LIFE SAFETY FEATURES
2306.1 General. Fire protection and life safety features for
high-piled storage areas shall be in accordance with Sections
2306.2 through 2306.10.
2306.2 Extent and type of protection. Where required by
Table 2306.2, fire detection systems, smoke and heat removal,
draft curtains and automatic sprinkler design densities shall
extend the lesser of 15 feet (4572 mm) beyond the high-piled
storage area or to a permanent partition. Where portions of
high-piled storage areas have different fire protection require-
ments because of commodity, method of storage or storage
height, the fire protection features required by Table 2306.2
within this area shall be based on the most restrictive design
requirements.
218
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
O
H
CO
<
_l
Q.
Q
LU
Q
Z
X
LU
LL
O
LU
O
>
>-
CO
LU
O
LU
Q.
30
25
20
15
10
\
CLASSIFY
HIGH-HAZ
COMMODI
AS
ARD
TY
\
CLASSIFY
AS CLASS
COMMODI"
\
TY \
CLASSIFY;
CLASS 1. II.
COMMODII
^S
OR III
FY
:r
■D
m
73
O
m
03
-<
m
O
I
H
o
m
X
z
D
m
o
"D
l—
>
CO
H
o
10
15
20
25
PERCENT BY WEIGHT OF UNEXPANDED PLASTIC'
FIGURE 2303.7.4
MIXED COMMODITIES^"
a. This figure is intended to determine the commodity classification of a mixed commodity in a package, carton or on a pallet where plastics are involved.
b. The following is an example of how to apply the figure: A package containing a Class IH commodity has 12-percent Group A expanded plastic by volume. The
weight of the unexpanded Group A plastic is 1 percent. This commodity is classified as a Class IV commodity. If the weight of the unexpanded plastic is increased
to 14 percent, the classification changes to a high-hazard commodity
c. Percent by volume =
Volume of plastic in pallet load
Total volume of pallet load, including pallet
d. Percent by weight =
Weight of plastic in pallet load
Total weight of pallet load, including pallet
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
219
HiGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
TABLE 2306.2
GENERAL FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
COIMIUIODITY
CLASS
SIZE OF HIGH-PILED
STORAGE AREA^
(square feet)
(see Sections 2306.2
and 2306.4)
ALL STORAGE AREAS
(See Sections 2306, 2307 and 2308)"
SOLID-PILED STORAGE, SHELF
STORAGE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE
(see Section 2307.3)
Automatic fire-
extinguishing
system
(see Section
2306.4)
Fire
detection
system
(see Section
2306.5)
Building
access
(see Section
2306.6)
Smoke and
heat removal
(see Section
2306.7)
Draft
curtains
(see Section
2306.7)
Maximum pile
dimension*^
(feet)
Maximum
permissible
storage
height''
(feet)
Maximum
pile volume
(cubic feet)
I-IV
0-500
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
Not
Required
Not
Required
Not
Required
501-2,500
Not
Required^
Yes'
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
100
40
100,000
2,501-12,000
Public accessible
Yes
Not
Required
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
100
40
400,000
2,501-12,000
Nonpublic accessible
(Option 1)
Yes
Not
Required
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
100
40
400,000
2,501-12,000
Nonpublic accessible
(Option 2)
Not
Required"
Yes
Yes
Yes"
YesJ
100
30^
200,000
12,001-20,000
Yes
Not
Required
Yes
YesJ
Not
Required
100
40
400,000
20,001-500,000
Yes
Not
Required
Yes
YesJ
Not
Required
100
40
400,000
Greater than
500,0008
Yes
Not
Required
Yes
YesJ
Not
Required
100
40
400,000
High
hazard
0-500
Not
Required''
Not
Required
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
50
Not
Required
Not
Required
501-2,500
Public accessible
Yes
Not
Required
Not
Required*^
Not
Required
Not
Required
50
30
75,000
501-2,500
Nonpublic accessible
(Option 1)
Yes
Not
Required
Not
Required^
Not
Required
Not
Required
50
30
75,000
501-2,500
Nonpublic accessible
(Option 2)
Not
Required''
Yes
Yes
YesJ
YesJ
50
20
50,000
2,501-300,000
Yes
Not
Required
Yes
Yesi
Not
Required
50
30
75,000
300,00 l-500,000g'*'
Yes
Not
Required
Yes
YesJ
Not
Required
50
30
75,000
For SL 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ , 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. When automatic sprinklers are required for reasons other than those in Chapter 23, the portion of the sprinkler system protecting the high-piled storage area shaU be
designed and installed in accordance with Sections 2307 and 2308.
b. For aisles, see Section 2306.9.
c. Piles shall be separated by aisles complying with Section 2306.9.
d. For storage in excess of the height indicated, special fire protection shall be provided in accordance with Note g when required by the fire code official. See also
Chapters 28 and 34 for special limitations for aerosols and flammable and combustible liquids, respecfively.
e. Secdon 503 shall apply for fire apparatus access.
f. For storage exceeding 30 feet in height, Option 1 shall be used.
g. Special fire protection provisions including, but not limited to, fire protection of exposed steel columns; increased sprinkler density; additional in-rack sprinklers,
without associated reductions in ceiling sprinkler density; or additional fire department hose connections shall be provided when required by the fire code official.
h. High-piled storage areas shall not exceed 500,000 square feet. A 2-hour fire wall constructed in accordance with the International Building Code shall be used to
divide high-piled storage exceeding 500,000 square feet in area,
i. Not required when an automatic fire-extinguishing system is designed and installed to protect the high-piled storage area in accordance with Sections 2307 and
2308.
j. Not requked when storage areas are protected by early suppression last response (ESFR) sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13.
220
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
2306.3 Separation of high-piled storage areas. High-piled
storage areas shall be separated from other portions of the
building where required by Sections 2306.3.1 through
2306.3.2.2.
2306.3.1 Separation from other uses. Mixed occupancies
shall be separated in accordance with the International
Building Code.
2306.3.2 Multiple high-piled storage areas. Multiple
high-piled storage areas shall be in accordance with Section
2306.3.2.1 or 2306.3.2.2.
2306.3.2.1 Aggregate area. The aggregate of all
high-piled storage areas within a building shall be used
for the application of Table 2306.2 unless such areas are
separated from each other by 1-hour fire barrier walls
constructed in accordance with the International Build-
ing Code. Openings in such walls shall be protected by
opening protective assemblies having a 1-hour fire pro-
tection rating.
2306.3.2.2 Multiclass high-piled storage areas.
High-piled storage areas classified as Class I through IV
not separated from high-piled storage areas classified as
high hazard shall utilize the aggregate of all high-piled
storage areas as high hazard for the purposes of the appli-
cation of Table 2306.2. To be considered as separated,
1-hour fire barrier walls shall be constructed in accor-
dance with ihQ International Building Code. Openings in
such walls shall be protected by opening protective
assemblies having a 1-hour fire protection rating.
Exception: As provided for in Section 2304.2.
2306.4 Automatic sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems
shall be provided in accordance with Sections 2307, 2308 and
2309.
2306.5 Fire detection. Where fire detection is required by
Table 2306.2, an approved automatic fire detection system
shall be installed throughout the high-piled storage area. The
system shall be monitored and be in accordance with Section
907.
2306.6 Building access. Where building access is required by
Table 2306.2, fire apparatus access roads in accordance with
Section 503 shall be provided within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of
all portions of the exterior walls of buildings used for
high-piled storage.
Exception: Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be
installed because of topography, railways, waterways,
non-negotiable grades or other similar conditions, the fire
code official is authorized to require additional fire protec-
tion.
2306.6.1 Access doors. Where building access is required
by Table 2306.2, fire department access doors shall be pro-
vided in accordance with this section. Access doors shall be
accessible without the use of a ladder.
2306.6.1.1 Number of doors required. A minimum of
one access door shall be provided in each 100 lineal feet
(30 480 mm), or fraction thereof, of the exterior walls
which face required fire apparatus access roads.
2306.6.1.2 Door size and type. Access doors shall not
be less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width and 6 feet 8 inches
(2032 mm) in height. Roll-up doors shall not be used
unless approved.
2306.6.1.3 Locking devices. Only approved locking
devices shall be used.
2306.7 Smoke and heat removal. Where smoke and heat
removal are required by Table 2306.2, smoke and heat vents
shall be provided in accordance with Section 910. Where draft
curtains are required by Table 2306.2, they shall be provided in
accordance with Section 910.3.4.
2306.8 Fire department hose connections. Where exit pas-
sageways are required by the International Building Code for
egress, a Class I standpipe system shall be provided in accor-
dance with Section 905.
2306.9 Aisles. Aisles providing access to exits and fire depart-
ment access doors shall be provided in high-piled storage areas
exceeding 500 square feet (46 m^), in accordance with Sections
2306.9.1 through 2306.9.3. Aisles separating storage piles or
racks shall comply with NFPA 13. Aisles shall also comply
with Chapter 10.
Exception: Where aisles are precluded by rack storage sys-
tems, alternate methods of access and protection are
allowed when approved.
2306.9.1 Width. Aisle width shall be in accordance with
Sections 2306.9.1.1 and 2306.9.1.2.
Exceptions:
1. Aisles crossing rack structures or storage piles,
which are used only for employee access, shall be a
minimum of 24 inches (610 ram) wide.
2. Aisles separating shelves classified as shelf stor-
age shall be a minimum of 30 inches (762 mm)
wide.
2306.9.1.1 Sprinklered buildings. Aisles in sprinklered
buildings shall be a minimum of 44 inches (1118 mm)
wide. Aisles shall be a minimum of 96 inches (2438 mm)
wide in high-piled storage areas exceeding 2,500 square
feet (232 m^) in area, that are accessible to the public and
designated to contain high-hazard commodities.
Exception: Aisles in high-piled storage areas exceed-
ing 2,500 square feet (232 m^) in area, that are acces-
sible to the public and designated to contain
high-hazard commodities, are protected by a sprin-
kler system designed for multiple-row racks of
high-hazard conmiodities shall be a minimum of 44
inches (1118 mm) wide.
Aisles shall be a minimum of 96 inches (2438 mm)
wide in areas accessible to the public where mechanical
stocking methods are used.
2306.9.1.2 Nonsprinklered buildings. Aisles in
nonsprinklered buildings shall be a minimum of 96
inches (2438 nrni) wide.
2306.9.2 Clear height. The required aisle width shall
extend from floor to ceiling. Rack structural supports and
catwalks are allowed to cross aisles at a minimum height of
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
221
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) above the finished floor level,
provided that such supports do not interfere with fire depart-
ment hose stream trajectory.
2306.9.3 Dead ends. Dead-end aisles shall be in accordance
with Chapter 10.
2306.10 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Section
906.
SECTION 2307
SOLID-PILED AND SHELF STORAGE
2307.1 General. Shelf storage and storage in solid piles, solid
piles on pallets and bin box storage in bin boxes not exceeding
5 feet (1524 mm) in any dimension, shall be in accordance with
Sections 2306 and this section.
2307.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are
required by Table 2306.2, an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour fire
barrier walls constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code. Openings in such walls shall be protected by
opening protective assemblies having 1-hour fire protection
ratings. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler
system and other applicable fire protection shall be in accor-
dance with the International Building Code and NFPA 13.
2307.2.1 Shelf storage. Shelf storage greater than 12 feet
(3658 mm) but less than 1 5 feet (4572 mm) in height shall be
in accordance with the fire protection requirements set forth
in NFPA 13. Shelf storage 15 feet (4572 mm) or more in
height shall be protected in an approved manner with spe-
cial fire protection, such as in-rack sprinklers.
2307.3 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimen-
sions, the maximum permissible storage height and pile vol-
ume shall be in accordance with Table 2306.2.
2307.4 Array. Where an automatic sprinkler system design
utilizes protection based on a closed array, array clearances
shall be provided and maintained as specified by the standard
used.
2308.2.1 Plastic pallets and shelves. Storage on plastic
pallets or plastic shelves shall be protected by approved spe-
cially engineered fire protection systems.
Exception: Plastic pallets listed and labeled in accor-
dance with UL 2335 shall be treated as wood pallets for
determining required sprinkler protection.
2308.2.2 Racks with solid shelving. Racks with solid
shelving having an area greater than 32 square feet (3 m^),
measured between approved flue spaces at all four edges of
the shelf, shall be in accordance with this section.
Exceptions:
1 . Racks with mesh, grated, slatted or similar shelves
having uniform openings not more than 6 inches
(152 mm) apart, comprised of at least 50 percent of
the overall shelf area, and with approved flue
spaces are allowed to be treated as racks without
solid shelves.
2. Racks used for the storage of combustible paper
records, with solid shelving, shall be in accordance
with NFPA 13.
2308.2.2.1 Fire protection. Fire protection for racks
with solid shelving shall be in accordance with NFPA 13.
2308.3 Flue spaces. Flue spaces shall be provided in accor-
dance with Table 2308.3. Required flue spaces shall be main-
tained.
2308.4 Column protection. Steel building columns shall be
protected in accordance with NFPA 230.
2308.5 Extra-high-rack storage systems. Approval of the
fire code official shall be obtained prior to installing
extra-high-rack combustible storage.
2308.5.1 Fire protection. Buildings with extra-high-rack
combustible storage shall be protected with a specially engi-
neered automatic sprinkler system. Extra-high-rack com-
bustible storage shall be provided with additional special
fire protection, such as separation from other buildings and
additional built-in fire protection features and fire depart-
ment access, when required by the fire code official.
SECTION 2308
RACK STORAGE
2308.1 General. Rack storage shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion 2306 and this section. Bin boxes exceeding 5 feet (1524
mm) in any dimension shall be regulated as rack storage.
2308.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are
required by Table 2306.2, an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour fire
barrier walls constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code. Openings in such walls shall be protected by
opening protective assemblies having 1-hour fire protection
ratings. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler
system and other applicable fire protection shall be in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the International Building
Code.
SECTION 2309
AUTOMATED STORAGE
2309.1 General. Automated storage shall be in accordance
with this section.
2309.2 Automatic sprinklers. Where automatic sprinklers are
required by Table 2306.2, the building shall be equipped
throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2309.3 Carousel storage. High-piled storage areas having
greater than 500 square feet (46 m^) of carousel storage shall be
provided with automatic shutdown in accordance with one of
the following:
1 . An automatic smoke detection system installed in accor-
dance with Section 907, with coverage extending 15 feet
(4575 mm) in all directions beyond unenclosed carousel
storage systems and which sounds a local alarm at the
222
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
operator's station and stops the carousel storage system
upon the activation of a single detector.
2. An automatic smoke detection system installed in accor-
dance with Section 907 and within enclosed carousel
storage systems, which sounds a local alarm at the opera-
tor' s station and stops the carousel storage system upon
the activation of a single detector.
3. A single dead-man-type control switch that allows the
operation of the carousel storage system only when the
operator is present. The switch shall be in the same room
as the carousel storage system and located to provide for
observation of the carousel system.
SECTION 2310
SPECIALTY STORAGE
2310.1 General. Records storage facilities used for the rack or
shelf storage of combustible paper records greater than 12 feet
(3658 mm) in height shall be in accordance with Sections 2306
and 2308 and NFPA 13 and NFPA 230. Palletized storage of
records shall be in accordance with Section 2307.
TABLE 2308.3
REQUIRED FLUE SPACES FOR RACK STORAGE
RACK
CONFIGURATION
SPRINKLER AT THE CEILING WITH OR WITHOUT
MINIMUM IN-RACK SPRINKLERS
IN-RACK
SPRINKLERS AT
EVERY TIER
NONSPRINKLERED
AUTOMATIC* smiNM-cn
PROTECTION
< 25 feet
> 25 feet
Any height
Any height
Storage height
Option 1
Option 2
Single-row rack
Transverse
flue space
Size''
3 inches
Not Applicable
3 inches
Not Required
Not Required
Vertically
aligned
Not Required
Not Applicable
Yes
Not Applicable
Not Required
Longitudinal flue space
Not Required
Not Applicable
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Double-row
rack
Transverse
flue space
Size''
6 inches^
3 inches
3 inches
Not Required
Not Required
Vertically
aligned
Not Required
Not Required
Yes
Not Applicable
Not Required
Longitudinal flue space
Not Required
6 inches
6 inches
Not Required
Not Required
Multi-row rack
Transverse
flue space
Size''
6 inches
Not Applicable
6 inches
Not Required
Not Required
Vertically
aligned
Not Required
Not Applicable
Yes
Not Applicable
Not Required
Longitudinal flue space
Not Required
Not Applicable
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided at
b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the con
least every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided,
figuration does not obstruct water penetration.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
223
224 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 24
TENTS, CANOPIES AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
SECTION 2401
GENERAL
2401.1 Scope. Tents, canopies and membrane structures shall
comply with this chapter. The provisions of Section 2403 are
applicable only to temporary membrane structures. The provi-
sions of Section 2404 are applicable to temporary and perma-
nent membrane structures.
SECTION 2402
DEFINITIONS
2402.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
AIR-SUPPORTED STRUCTURE. A structure wherein the
shape of the structure is attained by air pressure, and occupants
of the structure are within the elevated pressure area.
CANOPY. A structure, enclosure or shelter constructed of fab-
ric or pliable materials supported by any manner, except by air
or the contents it protects, and is open without sidewalls or
drops on 75 percent or more of the perimeter.
MEMBRANE STRUCTURE. An air-inflated, air-supported,
cable or frame-covered structure as defined by the Interna-
tional Building Code and not otherwise defined as a tent or can-
opy. See Chapter 31 of the International Building Code.
TENT. A structure, enclosure or shelter constructed of fabric
or pliable material supported by any manner except by air or
the contents that it protects.
SECTION 2403
TEMPORARY TENTS, CANOPIES AND MEMBRANE
STRUCTURES
2403.1 General. All temporary tents, canopies and membrane
structures shall comply with this section.
2403.2 Approval required. Tents and membrane structures
having an area in excess of 200 square feet (19 m^) and cano-
pies in excess of 400 square feet (37 m^) shall not be erected,
operated or maintained for any purpose without first obtaining
a permit and approval from the fire code official.
Exceptions:
1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping pur-
poses.
2. Fabric canopies open on all sides which comply with
all of the following:
2.1. Individual canopies having a maximum size
of 700 square feet (65 m^).
2.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies
placed side by side without a fire break clear-
ance of 12 feet (3658 mm), not exceeding 700
square feet (65 m^) total.
2.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to
all structures and other tents.
2403.3 Place of assembly. For the purposes of this chapter, a
place of assembly shall include a circus, carnival, tent show,
theater, skating rink, dance hall or other place of assembly in or
under which persons gather for any purpose.
2403.4 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
2403.5 Use period. Temporary tents, air-supported,
air-inflated or tensioned membrane structures and canopies
shall not be erected for a period of more than 1 80 days within a |
12-month period on a single premises.
2403.6 Construction documents. A detailed site and floor
plan for tents, canopies or membrane structures with an occu-
pant load of 50 or more shall be provided with each application
for approval. The tent, canopy or membrane structure floor
plan shall indicate details of the means of egress facilities, seat-
ing capacity, arrangement of the seating and location and type
of heating and electrical equipment.
2403.7 Inspections. The entire tent, air-supported, air-inflated
or tensioned membrane structure system shall be inspected at
regular intervals, but not less than two times per permit use
period, by the permittee, owner or agent to determine that the
installation is maintained in accordance with this chapter.
Exception: Permit use periods of less than 30 days.
2403.7.1 Inspection report. When required by the fire code
official, an inspection report shall be provided and shall
consist of maintenance, anchors and fabric inspections.
2403.8 Access, location and parking. Access location and
parking for temporary tents, canopies and membrane struc-
tures shall be in accordance with this section.
2403.8.1 Access. Fire apparatus access roads shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section 503.
2403.8.2 Location. Tents, canopies or membrane structures
shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of lot lines,
buildings, other tents, canopies or membrane structures,
parked vehicles or internal combustion engines. For the pur-
pose of determining required distances, support ropes and
guy wires shall be considered as part of the temporary mem-
brane structure, tent or canopy.
Exceptions:
1. Separation distance between membrane struc-
tures, tents and canopies not used for cooking, is
not required when the aggregate floor area does
not exceed 15,000 square feet (1394 m^).
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
225
TENTS, CANOPIES AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
2. Membrane structures, tents or canopies need not
be separated from buildings when all of the follow-
ing conditions are met:
2.1. The aggregate floor area of the membrane
structure, tent or canopy shall not exceed
10,000 square feet (929 m^).
2.2. The aggregate floor area of the building
and membrane structure, tent or canopy
shall not exceed the allowable floor area
including increases as indicated in the
International Building Code.
2.3. Required means of egress provisions are
provided for both the building and the
membrane structure, tent or canopy,
including travel distances.
2.4. Fire apparatus access roads are provided in
accordance with Section 503.
2403.8.3 Location of structures in excess of 15,000
square feet in area. Membrane structures having an area of
15,000 square feet (1394 m^) or more shall be located not
less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any other tent or struc-
ture as measured from the sidewall of the tent or membrane
structure unless joined together by a corridor.
2403.8.4 Connecting corridors. Tents or membrane struc-
tures are allowed to be joined together by means of corri-
dors. Exit doors shall be provided at each end of such
corridor. On each side of such corridor and approximately
opposite each other, there shall be provided openings not
less than 12 feet (3658 mm) wide.
2403.8.5 Fire break. An unobstructed fire break passage-
way or fire road not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) wide and
free from guy ropes or other obstructions shall be main-
tained on all sides of all tents, canopies and membrane struc-
tures unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
2403.9 Anchorage required. Tents, canopies 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 stabil-
ity shall be furnished to the fire code official on request.
2403.10 Temporary air-supported and air-inflated mem-
brane structures. Temporary air-supported and air-inflated
membrane structures shall be in accordance with Sections
2403.10.1 through 2403.10.4.
2403.10.1 Door operation. During high winds exceeding
50 miles per hour (22 m/s) or in snow conditions, the use of
doors in air-supported structures shall be controlled to avoid
excessive air loss. Doors shall not be left open.
2403.10.2 Fabric envelope design and construction.
Air-supported and air-inflated structures shall have the
design and construction of the fabric envelope and the
method of anchoring in accordance with Architectural Fab-
ric Structures Institute ASI 77.
2403.10.3 Blowers. An air-supported structure used as a
place of assembly shall be furnished with not less than two
blowers, each of which has adequate capacity to maintain
full inflation pressure with normal leakage. The design of
the blower shall be so as to provide integral limiting pres-
sure at the design pressure specified by the manufacturer.
2403.10.4 Auxiliary power. Places of public assembly for
more than 200 persons shall be furnished with either a fully
automatic auxiliary engine-generator set capable of power-
ing one blower continuously for 4 hours, or a supplementary
blower powered by an internal combustion engine which
shall be automatic in operation.
2403.11 Seating arrangements. Seating in tents, canopies or
membrane structures shall be in accordance with Chapter 10.
2403.12 Means of egress. Means of egress for temporary tents,
canopies and membrane structures shall be in accordance with
Sections 2403.12.1 through 2403.12.8.
2403.12.1 Distribution. Exits shall be spaced at approxi-
mately equal intervals around the perimeter of the tent, can-
opy or membrane structure, and shall be located such that all
points are 100 feet (30 480 mm) or less from an exit.
2403.12.2 Number. Tents, canopies or membrane struc-
tures or a usable portion thereof shall have at least one exit
and not less than the number of exits required by Table
2403.12.2. The total width of means of egress in inches
(mm) shall not be less than the total occupant load served by
a means of egress multiplied by 0.2 inches (5 mm) per per-
son.
TABLE 2403.12.2
MINIMUM NUMBER OF MEANS OF EGRESS AND MEANS OF
EGRESS WIDTHS FROM TEMPORARY MEMBRANE
STRUCTURES, TENTS AND CANOPIES
OCCUPANT
LOAD
MINIMUM
NUMBER OF
MEANS OF
EGRESS
MINIMUM WIDTH
OF EACH MEANS
OF EGRESS
(inches)
MINIMUM WIDTH
OF EACH MEANS
OF EGRESS
(inches)
Tent or Canopy
Membrane
Structure
10 to 199
2
72
36
200 to 499
3
72
72
500 to 999
4
96
72
1,000 to 1,999
5
120
96
2,000 to 2,999
6
120
96
Over 3,000^
7
120
96
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. When the occupant load exceeds 3,000, the total width of means of egress (in
inches) shall not be less than the total occupant load multiplied by 0.2 inches
per person.
2403.12.3 Exit openings from tents. Exit openings from
tents shall remain open unless covered by a flame-resistant
curtain. The curtain shall comply with the following
requirements:
1 . Curtains shall be free sliding on a metal support. The
support shall be a minimum of 80 inches (2032 mm)
above the floor level at the exit. The curtains shall be
so arranged that, when open, no part of the curtain
obstructs the exit.
2. Curtains shall be of a color, or colors, that contrasts
with the color of the tent.
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2403.12.4 Doors. Exit doors shall swing in the direction of
exit travel. To avoid hazardous air and pressure loss in
air-supported membrane structures, such doors shall be
automatic closing against operating pressures. Opening
force at the door edge shall not exceed 15 pounds (66 N).
2403.12.5 Aisle. The width of aisles without fixed seating
shall be in accordance with the following:
1 . In areas serving employees only, the minimum aisle
width shall be 24 inches (610 mm) but not less than
the width required by the number of employees
served.
2. In public areas, smooth-surfaced, unobstructed aisles
having a minimum width of not less than 44 inches
(1118 mm) shall be provided from seating areas, and
aisles shall be progressively increased in width to pro-
vide, at all points, not less than 1 foot (305 mm) of
aisle width for each 50 persons served by such aisle at
that point.
2403.12.5.1 Arrangement and maintenance. The
arrangement of aisles shall be subject to approval by the
fire code official and shall be maintained clear at all times
during occupancy.
2403.12.6 Exit signs. Exits shall be clearly marked. Exit
signs shall be installed at required exit doorways and where
otherwise necessary to indicate clearly the direction of
egress when the exit serves an occupant load of 50 or more.
2403.12.6.1 Exit sign illumination. Exit signs shall be
of an approved self-luminous type or shall be internally
or externally illuminated by luminaires supplied in the
following manner:
1. Two separate circuits, one of which shall be sepa-
rate from all other circuits, for occupant loads of
300 or less; or
2. Two separate sources of power, one of which shall
be an approved emergency system, shall be pro-
vided when the occupant load exceeds 300. Emer-
gency systems shall be supplied from storage
batteries or from the on-site generator set, and the
system shall be installed in accordance with the
ICC Electrical Code.
2403.12.7 Means of egress illumination. Means of egress
shall be illuminated with light having an intensity of not less
than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at floor level while the structure
is occupied. Fixtures required for means of egress illumina-
tion shall be supplied from a separate circuit or source of
power.
2403.12.8 Maintenance of means of egress. The required
width of exits, aisles and passageways shall be maintained at
all times to a public way. Guy wires, guy ropes and other
support members shall not cross a means of egress at a
height of less than 8 feet (2438 mm). The surface of means
of egress shall be maintained in an approved manner.
SECTION 2404
TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT TENTS,
CANOPIES AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
2404.1 General. All tents, canopies and membrane structures,
both temporary and permanent, shall be in accordance with this
section. Permanent tents, canopies and membrane structures
shall also comply with the International Building Code.
2404.2 Flame propagation performance treatment. Before
a permit is granted, the owner or agent shall file with the fire
code official a certificate executed by an approved testing labo-
ratory certifying that the tents; canopies and membrane struc-
tures and their appurtenances; sidewalls, drops and tarpaulins;
floor coverings, bunting and combustible decorative materials
and effects, including sawdust when used on floors or passage-
ways, shall be composed of material meeting the flame propa-
gation performance criteria of NFPA 701 or shall be treated
with a flame retardant in an approved manner and meet the
flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701, and that
such flame propagation performance criteria are effective for
the period specified by the permit.
2404.3 Label. Membrane structures, tents or canopies shall
have a permanently affixed label bearing the identification of
size and fabric or material type.
2404.4 CertiJRcation. An affidavit or affirmation shall be sub-
mitted to the fire code official and a copy retained on the pre-
mises on which the tent or air-supported structure is located.
The affidavit shall attest to the following information relative to
the flame propagation performance criteria of the fabric: |
1 . Names and address of the owners of the tent, canopy or
air-supported structure.
2. Date the fabric was last treated with flame-retardant |
solution.
3. Trade name or kind of chemical used in treatment.
4. Name of person or firm treating the material.
5. Name of testing agency and test standard by which the
fabric was tested.
2404.5 Combustible materials. Hay, straw, shavings or simi-
lar combustible materials shall not be located within any tent,
canopy or membrane structure containing an assembly occu-
pancy, except the materials necessary for the daily feeding and
care of animals. Sawdust and shavings utilized for a public per-
formance or exhibit shall not be prohibited provided the saw-
dust and shavings are kept damp. Combustible materials shall
not be permitted under stands or seats at any time. The areas
within and adjacent to the tent or air-supported structure shall
be maintained clear of all combustible materials or vegetation
that could create a fire hazard within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the
structure. Combustible trash shall be removed at least once a
day from the structure during the period the structure is occu-
pied by the public.
2404.6 Smoking. Smoking shall not be permitted in tents, can-
opies or membrane structures. Approved "No Smoking" signs
shall be conspicuously posted in accordance with Section 310.
2404.7 Open or exposed flame. Open flame or other devices
emitting flame, fire or heat or any flammable or combustible
liquids, gas, charcoal or other cooking device or any other
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
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TENTS, CANOPIES AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
unapproved devices shall not be permitted inside or located
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the tent, canopy or membrane
structures while open to the public unless approved by the fire
code official.
2404.8 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used within 100 feet
(30 480 mm) of tents, canopies or membrane structures.
2404.9 Spot lighting. Spot or effect lighting shall only be by
electricity, and all combustible construction located within 6
feet (1829 mm) of such equipment shall be protected with
approved noncombustible insulation not less than 9.25 inches
(235 mm) thick.
2404.10 Safety film. Motion pictures shall not be displayed in
tents, canopies or membrane structures unless the motion pic-
ture film is safety film.
2404.11 Clearance. There shall be a minimum clearance of at
least 3 feet (914 mm) between the fabric envelope and all con-
tents located inside the tent or membrane structure.
2404.12 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers shall be provided as required by Section 906.
2404.13 Fire protection equipment. Fire hose lines, water
supplies and other auxiliary fire equipment shall be maintained
at the site in such numbers and sizes as required by the fire code
official.
2404.14 Occupant load factors. The occupant load allowed in
an assembly structure, or portion thereof, shall be determined
in accordance with Chapter 10.
2404.15 Heating and cooking equipment. Heating and cook-
ing equipment shall be in accordance with Sections 2404.15.1
through 2404.15.7.
2404.15.1 Installation. Heating or cooking equipment,
tanks, piping, hoses, fittings, valves, tubing and other
related components shall be installed as specified in the
International Mechanical Code and the International Fuel
Gas Code, and shall be approved by the fire code official.
2404.15.2 Venting. Gas, liquid and solid fuel-burning
equipment designed to be vented shall be vented to the out-
side air as specified in the International Fuel Gas Code and
the International Mechanical Code. Such vents shall be
equipped with approved spark arresters when required.
Where vents or flues are used, all portions of the tent, can-
opy or membrane structure shall be not less than 12 inches
(305 mm) from the flue or vent.
2404.15.3 Location. Cooking and heating equipment shall
not be located within 1 feet (3048 mm) of exits or combus-
tible materials.
2404.15.4 Operations. Operations such as warming of
foods, cooking demonstrations and similar operations that
use solid flammables, butane or other similar devices which
do not pose an ignition hazard, shall be approved.
2404.15.5 Cooking tents. Tents where cooking is per-
formed shall be separated from other tents, canopies or
membrane structures by a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm).
2404.15.6 Outdoor cooking. Outdoor cooking that pro-
duces sparks or grease-laden vapors shall not be performed
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of a tent, canopy or membrane
structure.
2404.15.7 Electrical heating and cooking equipment.
Electrical cooking and heating equipment shall comply
with the ICC Electrical Code.
2404.16 LP-gas. The storage, handling and use of LP-gas and
LP-gas equipment shall be in accordance with Sections
2406.16.1 through 2404.16.3.
2404.16.1 General. LP-gas equipment such as tanks, pip-
ing, hoses, fittings, valves, tubing and other related compo-
nents shall be approved and in accordance with Chapter 38
and with the International Fuel Gas Code.
2404.16.2 Location of containers. LP-gas containers shall
be located outside. Safety release valves shall be pointed
away from the tent, canopy or membrane structure.
2404.16.2.1 Containers 500 gallons or less. Portable
LP-gas containers with a capacity of 500 gallons (1893
L) or less shall have a minimum separation between the
container and structure not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
2404.16.2.2 Containers more than 500 gallons. Porta-
ble LP-gas containers with a capacity of more than 500
gallons (1893 L) shall have a minimum separation
between the container and structures not less than 25 feet
(7620 mm).
2404.16.3 Protection and security. Portable LP-gas con-
tainers, piping, valves and fittings which are located outside
and are being used to fuel equipment inside a tent, canopy or
membrane structure shall be adequately protected to pre-
vent tampering, damage by vehicles or other hazards and
shall be located in an approved location. Portable LP-gas
containers shall be securely fastened in place to prevent
unauthorized movement.
2404.17 Flammable and combustible liquids. The storage of
flammable and combustible liquids and the use of flanmia-
ble-liquid-fueled equipment shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 2404.17.1 through 2404.17.3.
2404.17.1 Use. Flammable-liquid-fueled equipment shall
not be used in tents, canopies or membrane structures.
2404.17.2 Flammable and combustible liquid storage.
Flammable and combustible liquids shall be stored outside
in an approved manner not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm)
from tents, canopies or membrane structures. Storage shall
be in accordance with Chapter 34.
2404.17.3 Refueling. Refueling shall be performed in an
approved location not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) from
tents, canopies or membrane structures.
2404.18 Display of motor vehicles. Liquid- and gas-fueled
vehicles and equipment used for display within tents, canopies
or membrane structures shall be in accordance with Sections
2404.18.1 through 2404.18.5.3.
2404.18.1 Batteries. Batteries shall be disconnected in an
appropriate manner.
2404.18.2 Fuel systems. Vehicles or equipment shall not be
fueled or defueled within the tent, canopy or membrane
structure.
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2404.18.2.1 Quantity limit. Fuel in the fuel tank shall
not exceed one-quarter of the tank capacity or 5 gallons
(19 L), whichever is less.
2404.18.2.2 Inspection. Fuel systems shall be inspected
for leaks.
2404.18.2.3 Closure. Fuel tank openings shall be locked
and sealed to prevent the escape of vapors.
2404.18.3 Location. The location of vehicles or equipment
shall not obstruct means of egress.
2404.18.4 Places of assembly. When a compressed natural
gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) powered
vehicle is parked inside a place of assembly, all the follow-
ing conditions shall be met:
1 . The quarter-turn shutoff valve or other shutoff valve
on the outlet of the CNG or LP-gas container shall be
closed and the engine shall be operated until it stops.
Valves shall remain closed while the vehicle is
indoors.
2. The hot lead of the battery shall be disconnected.
3. Dual-fuel vehicles equipped to operate on gasoline
and CNG or LP-gas shall comply with this section and
Sections 2404.18.1 through 2404.18.5.3 for gaso-
line-powered vehicles.
2404.18.5 Competitions and demonstrations. Liquid-
and gas-fueled vehicles and equipment used for competition
or demonstration within a tent, canopy or membrane struc-
ture shall comply with Sections 2404.18.5.1 through
2404.18.5.3.
2404.18.5.1 Fuel storage. Fuel for vehicles or equip-
ment shall be stored in approved containers in an
approved location outside of the structure in accordance
with Section 2404.17.2.
2404.18.5.2 Fueling. Refuehng shall be performed out-
side of the structure in accordance with Section
2404.17.3.
2404.18.5.3 Spills. Fuel spills shall be cleaned up imme-
diately.
2404.19 Separation of generators. Generators and other
internal combustion power sources shall be separated from
tents, canopies or membrane structures by a minimum of 20
feet (6096 mm) and shall be isolated from contact with the pub-
lic by fencing, enclosure or other approved means.
2404.20 Standby personnel. When, in the opinion of the fire
code official, it is essential for public safety in a tent, canopy or
membrane structure used as a place of assembly or any other
use where people congregate, because of the number of per-
sons, or the nature of the performance, exhibition, display, con-
test or activity, the owner, agent or lessee shall employ one or
more qualified persons, as required and approved, to remain on
duty during the times such places are open to the public, or
when such activity is being conducted.
Before each performance or the start of such activity,
standby personnel shall keep diligent watch for fires during the
time such place is open to the public or such activity is being
conducted and take prompt measures for extinguishment of
fires that occur and assist in the evacuation of the public from
the structure.
There shall be trained crowd managers or crowd manager
supervisors at a ratio of one crowd manager/supervisor for
every 250 occupants, as approved.
2404.21 Vegetation removal. Combustible vegetation shall be
removed from the area occupied by a tent, canopy or membrane
structure, and from areas within 30 feet (9144 mm) of such
structures.
2404.22 Waste material. The floor surface inside tents, cano-
pies or membrane structures and the grounds outside and
within a 30-foot (9144 mm) perimeter shall be kept clear of
combustible waste. Such waste shall be stored in approved con-
tainers until removed from the premises.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
229
230 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 25
TIRE REBUILDING AND TIRE STORAGE
SECTION 2501
GENERAL
2501.1 Scope. Tire rebuilding plants, tire storage and tire
byproduct facilities shall comply with this chapter, other appli-
cable requirements of this code and NFPA 13 and NFPA 230.
Tire storage in buildings shall also comply with Chapter 23.
2501.2 Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth
in Section 105.6.
SECTION 2502
DEFINITIONS
2502.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 2503
TIRE REBUILDING
2503.1 Construction. Tire rebuilding plants shall comply with
the requirements of the International Building Code, as to con-
struction, separation from other buildings or other portions of
the same building, and protection.
2503.2 Location. Buffing operations shall be located in a room
separated from the remainder of the building housing the tire
rebuilding or tire recapping operations by a 1 -hour fire barrier.
Exception: Buffing operations are not required to be sepa-
rated where all of the following conditions are met:
1. Buffing operations are equipped with an approved
continuous automatic water-spray system directed at
the point of cutting action;
2. Buffing machines are connected to particle-collecting
systems providing a minimum air movement of 1 ,500
cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.7 1 mVs) in volume and
4,500 feet per minute (fpm) (23 m/s) in-line velocity;
and
3. The collecting system shall discharge the rubber par-
ticles to an approved outdoor noncombustible or
fire-resistant container, which is emptied at frequent
intervals to prevent overflow.
2503.3 Cleaning. The buffing area shall be cleaned at frequent
intervals to prevent the accumulation of rubber particles.
2503.4 Spray rooms and booths. Each spray room or spray
booth where flammable or combustible solvents are applied,
shall comply with Chapter 15.
SECTION 2504
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
2504.1 Open burning. Open burning is prohibited in tire stor-
age yards.
2504.2 Sources of heat. Cutting, welding or heating devices
shall not be operated in tire storage yards.
2504.3 Smoking prohibited. Smoking is prohibited in tire
storage yards, except in designated areas.
2504.4 Power lines. Tire storage piles shall not be located
beneath electrical power lines having a voltage in excess of 750
volts or that supply power to fire emergency systems.
2504.5 Fire safety plan. The owner or individual in charge of
the tire storage yard shall be required to prepare and submit to
the fire code official a fire safety plan for review and approval.
The fire safety plan shall include provisions for fire department
vehicle access. At least one copy of the fire safety plan shall be
prominently posted and maintained at the storage yard.
2504.6 Telephone number. The telephone number of the fire
department and location of the nearest telephone shall be
posted conspicuously in attended locations.
SECTION 2505
OUTDOOR STORAGE
2505.1 Individual piles. Tire storage shall be restricted to indi-
vidual piles not exceeding 5,000 square feet (464.5 m^) of con-
tinuous area. Piles shall not exceed 50,000 cubic feet (1416 m^)
in volume or 10 feet (3048 mm) in height.
2505.2 Separation of piles. Individual tire storage piles shall
be separated from other piles of salvage by a clear space of at
least 40 feet (12 192 mm).
2505.3 Distance between piles of other stored products. Tire
storage piles shall be separated by a clear space of at least 40
feet (12 192 mm) from piles of other stored product.
2505.4 Distance from lot lines and buildings. Tire storage
piles shall be located at least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from lot lines
and buildings.
2505.5 Fire breaks. Storage yards shall be maintained free
from combustible ground vegetation for a distance of 40 feet
(12 192 mm) from the stored material to grass and weeds; and
for a distance of 100 feet (30 480 mm) from the stored product
to brush and forested areas.
2505.6 Volume more than 150,000 cubic feet. Where the bulk
volume of stored product is more than 150,000 cubic feet (4248
m^), storage arrangement shall be in accordance with the fol-
lowing:
1. Individual storage piles shall comply with size and sepa-
ration requirements in Sections 2505.1 through 2505.5.
2. Adjacent storage piles shall be considered a group, and
the aggregate volume of storage piles in a group shall not
exceed 150,000 cubic feet (4248 m^).
Separation between groups shall be at least 75 feet (22 860
m) wide.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
231
TIRE REBUILDING AND TIRE STORAGE
2505.7 Location of storage. Outdoor waste tire storage shall
not be located under bridges, elevated trestles, elevated road-
ways or elevated railroads.
SECTION 2506
FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS
2506.1 Required access. New and existing tire storage yards
shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accor-
dance with Section 503 and this section.
2506.2 Location. Fire apparatus access roads shall be located
within all pile clearances identified in Sections 2505.4 and
within all fire breaks required in Section 2505.5. Access road-
ways shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of any point in the
storage yard where storage piles are located, at least 20 feet
(6096 mm) from any storage pile.
SECTION 2507
FENCING
2507.1 Where required. Where the bulk volume of stored
material is more than 20,000 cubic feet (566 m^), a firmly
anchored fence or other approved method of security that con-
trols unauthorized access to the storage yard shall surround the
storage yard.
2507.2 Construction. The fence shall be constructed of
approved materials and shall be at least 6 feet (1829 mm) high
and provided with gates at least 20 feet (6096 mm) wide.
2507.3 Locking. All gates to the storage yard shall be locked
when the storage yard is not staffed.
2507.4 Unobstructed. Gateways shall be kept clear of obstruc-
tions and be fully openable at all times.
SECTION 2508
FIRE PROTECTION
2508.1 Water supply. A public or private fire protection water
supply shall be provided in accordance with Section 508. The
water supply shall be arranged such that any part of the storage
yard can be reached by using not more than 500 feet (152 m) of
hose.
2508.2 Fire extinguishers. Buildings or structures shall be
provided with portable fire extinguishers in accordance with
Section 906. Fuel-fired vehicles operating in the storage yard
shall be equipped with a minimum 2-A:20-B:C rated portable
fire extinguisher.
SECTION 2509
INDOOR STORAGE ARRANGEMENT
2509.1 Pile dimensions. Where tires are stored on-tread, the
dimension of the pile in the direction of the wheel hole shall not
be more than 50 feet (15 240 mm). Tires stored adjacent to or
along one wall shall not extend more than 25 feet (7620 mm)
from that wall. Other piles shall not be more than 50 feet (15
240 mm) in width.
232
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 26
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK
SECTION 2601
GENERAL
2601.1 Scope. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot
work operations and equipment shall comply with this chapter.
2601.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
2601.3 Restricted areas. Hot work shall only be conducted in
areas designed or authorized for that purpose by the personnel
responsible for a Hot Work Program. Hot work shall not be
conducted in the following areas unless approval has been
obtained from the fire code official:
1 . Areas where the sprinkler system is impaired.
2. Areas where there exists the potential of an explosive
atmosphere, such as locations where flammable gases,
liquids or vapors are present.
3. Areas with readily ignitable materials, such as storage of
large quantities of bulk sulfur, baled paper, cotton, lint,
dust or loose combustible materials.
4. On board ships at dock or ships under construction or
repair.
5. At other locations as specified by the fire code official.
2601.4 Cylinders and containers. Compressed gas cylinders
and fuel containers shall comply with this chapter and Chapter
30.
2601.5 Design and installation of oxygen-fuel gas systems.
An oxygen-fuel gas system with two or more manifolded cylin-
ders of oxygen shall be in accordance with NFPA 51.
SECTION 2602
DEFINITIONS
2602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
HOT WORK. Operations including cutting, welding. Thermit
welding, brazing, soldering, grinding, thermal spraying, thaw-
ing pipe, installation of torch-applied roof systems or any other
similar activity.
HOT WORK AREA. The area exposed to sparks, hot slag,
radiant heat, or convective heat as a result of the hot work.
HOT WORK EQUIPMENT. Electric or gas welding or cut-
ting equipment use for hot work.
HOT WORK PERMITS. Permits issued by the responsible
person at the facility under the hot work permit program per-
mitting welding or other hot work to be done in locations
referred to in Section 2603.3 and pre-permitted by the fire code
official.
HOT WORK PROGRAM. A permitted program, carried out
by approved facilities-designated personnel, allowing thern to
oversee and issue permits for hot work conducted by their per-
sonnel or at their facility. The intent is to have trained, on-site,
responsible personnel ensure that required hot work safety
measures are taken to prevent fires and fire spread.
RESPONSIBLE PERSON. A person trained in the safety and
fire safety considerations concerned with hot work. Responsi-
ble for reviewing the sites prior to issuing permits as part of the
hot work permit program and following up as the job pro-
gresses.
TORCH-APPLIED ROOF SYSTEM. Bituminous roofing
systems using membranes that are adhered by heating with a
torch and melting asphalt back coating instead of mopping hot
asphalt for adhesion.
SECTION 2603
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
2603.1 General. Hot work conditions and operations shall
comply with this chapter.
2603.2 Temporary and fixed hot work areas. Temporary and
fixed hot work areas shall comply with this section.
2603.3 Hot work program permit. Hot work permits, issued
by an approved responsible person under a hot work program,
shall be available for review by the fire code official at the time
the work is conducted and for 48 hours after work is complete.
2603.4 Qualifications of operators. A permit for hot work
operations shall not be issued unless the individuals in charge
of performing such operations are capable of performing such
operations safely. Demonstration of a working knowledge of
the provisions of this chapter shall constitute acceptable evi-
dence of compliance with this requirement.
2603.5 Records. The individual responsible for the hot work
area shall maintain "prework check" reports in accordance
with Section 2604.3.1. These reports shall be maintained on
the premises for a minimum of 48 hours after work is com-
plete.
2603.6 Signage. Visible hazard identification signs shall be
provided where required by Chapter 27. Where the hot work
area is accessible to persons other than the operator of the hot
work equipment, conspicuous signs shall be posted to warn
others before they enter the hot work area. Such signs shall dis-
play the following warning:
CAUTION
HOT WORK IN PROGRESS
STAY CLEAR.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
233
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK
SECTION 2604
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
2604.1 Protection of combustibles. Protection of combusti-
bles shall be in accordance with Sections 2604.1.1 through
2604.1.9.
2604.1.1 Combustibles. Hot work areas shall not contain
combustibles or shall be provided with appropriate shield-
ing to prevent sparks, slag or heat from igniting exposed
combustibles.
2604.1.2 Openings. Openings or cracks in walls, floors,
ducts or shafts within the hot work area shall be tightly cov-
ered to prevent the passage of sparks to adjacent combusti-
ble areas, or shielded by metal fire-resistant guards, or
curtains shall be provided to prevent passage of sparks or
slag.
2604.1.3 Housekeeping. Floors shall be kept clean within
the hot work area.
2604.1.4 Conveyor systems. Conveyor systems that are
capable of carrying sparks to distant combustibles shall be
shielded or shut down.
2604.1.5 Partitions. Partitions segregating hot work areas
from other areas of the building shall be noncombustible. In
fixed hot work areas, the partitions shall be securely con-
nected to the floor such that no gap exists between the floor
and the partition. Partitions shall prevent the passage of
sparks, slag, and heat from the hot work area.
2604.1.6 Floors. Fixed hot work areas shall have floors with
noncombustible surfaces.
2604.1.7 Precautions in hot work. Hot work shall not be
performed on containers or equipment that contains or has
contained flammable liquids, gases or solids until the con-
tainers and equipment have been thoroughly cleaned,
inerted or purged; except that "hot tapping" shall be allowed
on tanks and pipe lines when such work is to be conducted
by approved personnel.
2604.1.8 Sprinkler protection. Automatic sprinkler pro-
tection shall not be shut off while hot work is performed.
Where hot work is performed close to automatic sprinklers,
noncombustible barriers or damp cloth guards shall shield
the individual sprinkler heads and shall be removed when
the work is completed. If the work extends over several
days, the shields shall be removed at the end of each work-
day. The fire code official shall approve hot work where
sprinkler protection is impaired.
2604.1.9 Fire detection systems. Approved special precau-
tions shall be taken to avoid accidental operation of auto-
matic fire detection systems.
2604.2 Fire watch. Fire watches shall be established and con-
ducted in accordance with Sections 2604.2. 1 through 2604.2.6.
2604.2.1 When required. A fire watch shall be provided
during hot work activities and shall continue for a minimum
of 30 minutes after the conclusion of the work. The fire code
official, or the responsible manager under a hot work pro-
gram, is authorized to extend the fire watch based on the
hazards or work being performed.
Exception: Where the hot work area has no fire hazards
or combustible exposures.
2604.2.2 Location. The fire watch shall include the entire
hot work area. Hot work conducted in areas with vertical or
horizontal fire exposures that are not observable by a single
individual shall have additional personnel assigned to fire
watches to ensure that exposed areas are monitored.
2604.2.3 Duties. Individuals designated to fire watch duty
shall have fire-extinguishing equipment readily available
and shall be trained in the use of such equipment. Individu-
als assigned to fire watch duty shall be responsible for extin-
guishing spot fires and communicating an alarm.
2604.2.4 Fire training. The individuals responsible for per-
forming the hot work and individuals responsible for pro-
viding the fire watch shall be trained in the use of portable
fire extinguishers.
2604.2.5 Fire hoses. Where hoselines are required, they
shall be connected, charged and ready for operation.
2604.2.6 Fire extinguisher. A minimum of one portable
fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 and with a
minimum 2-A:20-B:C rating shall be readily accessible
within 30 feet (9144 mm) of the location where hot work is
performed.
2604.3 Area reviews. Before hot work is permitted and at least
once per day while the permit is in effect, the area shall be
inspected by the individual responsible for authorizing hot
work operations to ensure that it is a fire safe area. Information
shown on the permit shall be verified prior to signing the permit
in accordance with Section 105.6.
2604.3.1 Pre-hot-work check. A pre-hot-work check shall
be conducted prior to work to ensure that all equipment is
safe and hazards are recognized and protected. A report of
the check shall be kept at the work site during the work and
available upon request. The pre-hot-work check shall deter-
mine all of the following:
1 . Hot work equipment to be used shall be in satisfactory
operating condition and in good repair.
2. Hot work site is clear of combustibles or combusti-
bles are protected.
3. Exposed construction is of noncombustible materials
or, if combustible, then protected.
4. Openings are protected.
5. Floors are kept clean.
6. No exposed combustibles are located on the opposite
side of partitions, walls, ceilings or floors.
7. Fire watches, where required, are assigned.
8. Approved actions have been taken to prevent acci-
dental activation of suppression and detection equip-
ment in accordance with Sections 2604.1.8 and
2604.1.9.
9. Fire extinguishers and fire hoses (where provided) are
operable and available.
234
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK
SECTION 2605
GAS WELDING AND CUTTING
2605.1 General. Devices or attachments mixing air or oxygen
with combustible gases prior to consumption, except at the
burner or in a standard torch or blow pipe, shall not be allowed
unless approved.
2605.2 Cylinder and container storage, handling and use.
Storage, handling and use of compressed gas cylinders, con-
tainers and tanks shall be in accordance with this section and
Chapter 30.
2605.3 Precautions. Cylinders, valves, regulators, hose and
other apparatus and fittings for oxygen shall be kept free from
oil or grease. Oxygen cylinders, apparatus and fittings shall not
be handled with oily hands, oily gloves, or greasy tools or
equipment.
2605.4 Acetylene gas. Acetylene gas shall not be piped except
in approved cylinder manifolds and cylinder manifold connec-
tions, or utilized at a pressure exceeding 15 pounds per square
inch gauge (psig) (103 kPa) unless dissolved in a suitable sol-
vent in cylinders manufactured in accordance with DOTn 49
CFR. Acetylene gas shall not be brought in contact with unal-
loyed copper, except in a blowpipe or torch.
2605.5 Remote locations. Oxygen and fuel-gas cylinders and
acetylene generators shall be located away from the hot work
area to prevent such cylinders or generators from being heated
by radiation from heated materials, sparks or slag, or misdirec-
tion of the torch flame.
2605.6 Cylinders shutoff. The torch valve shall be closed and
the gas supply to the torch completely shut off when gas weld-
ing or cutting operations are discontinued for a period of 1 hour
or more.
2605.7 Prohibited operation. Welding or cutting work shall
not be held or supported on compressed gas cylinders or con-
tainers.
2605.8 Tests. Tests for leaks in piping systems and equipment
shall be made with soapy water. The use of flames shall be pro-
hibited for leak testing.
SECTION 2606
ELECTRIC ARC HOT WORK
2606.1 General. The frame or case of electric hot work
machines, except internal-combustion-engine-driven
machines, shall be grounded. Ground connections shall be
mechanically strong and electrically adequate for the required
current.
2606.2 Return circuits. Welding current return circuits from
the work to the machine shall have proper electrical contact at
joints. The electrical contact shall be periodically inspected.
2606.3 Disconnecting. Electrodes shall be removed from the
holders when electric arc welding or cutting is discontinued for
any period of 1 hour or more. The holders shall be located to
prevent accidental contact and the machines shall be discon-
nected from the power source.
2606.4 Emergency disconnect. A switch or circuit breaker
shall be provided so that fixed electric welders and control
equipment can be disconnected from the supply circuit. The
disconnect shall be installed in accordance with the ICC Elec-
trical Code.
2606.5 Damaged cable. Damaged cable shall be removed
from service until properly repaired or replaced.
SECTION 2607
CALCIUM CARBIDE SYSTEMS
2607.1 Calcium carbide storage. Storage and handhng of cal-
cium carbide shall comply with Chapter 27 of this code and
Chapter 9 of NFPA 51.
SECTION 2608
ACETYLENE GENERATORS
2608.1 Use of acetylene generators. The use of acetylene gen-
erators shall comply with this section and Chapter 4 of NFPA
51A.
2608.2 Portable generators. The minimum volume of rooms
containing portable generators shall be 35 times the total
gas-generating capacity per charge of all generators in the
room. The gas-generating capacity in cubic feet per charge
shall be assumed to be 4.5 times the weight of carbide per
charge in pounds. The minimum ceiling height of rooms con-
taining generators shall be 10 feet (3048 mm). An acetylene
generator shall not be moved by derrick, crane or hoist while
charged.
2608.3 Protection against freezing. Generators shall be
located where water will not freeze. Common salt such as
sodium chloride or other corrosive chemicals shall not be uti-
lized for protection against freezing.
SECTION 2609
PIPING MANIFOLDS AND HOSE SYSTEMS FOR
FUEL GASES AND OXYGEN
2609.1 General. The use of piping manifolds and hose systems
shall be in accordance with Section 2609.2 through 2609.7,
Chapter 30 and Chapter 5 of NFPA 5 1 .
2609.2 Protection. Piping shall be protected against physical
damage.
2609.3 Signage. Signage shall be provided for piping and hose
systems as follows:
1 . Above-ground piping systems shall be marked in accor-
dance with ASME A 13.1.
2. Station outlets shall be marked to indicate their intended
usage.
3. Signs shall be posted, indicating clearly the location and
identity of section shutoff valves.
2609.4 Manifolding of cylinders. Oxygen manifolds shall not
be located in an acetylene generator room. Oxygen manifolds
shall be located at least 20 feet (6096 mm) away from combus-
tible material such as oil or grease, and gas cylinders containing
flanmiable gases, unless the gas cylinders are separated by a
fire partition.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
235
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK
2609.5 Identification of manifolds. Signs shall be posted for
oxygen manifolds with service pressures not exceeding 200
psig (1379 kPa). Such signs shall include the words:
LOW-PRESSURE MANIFOLD
DO NOT CONNECT HIGH-PRESSURE CYLINDERS
MAXIMUM PRESSURE 250 PSIG
2609.6 Clamps. Hose connections shall be clamped or other-
wise securely fastened.
2609.7 Inspection. Hoses shall be inspected frequently for
leaks, bums, wear, loose connections or other defects render-
ing the hose unfit for service.
236 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 27
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 2701
GENERAL
2701.1 Scope. Prevention, control and mitigation of dangerous
conditions related to storage, dispensing, use and handling of
hazardous materials shall be in accordance with this chapter.
This chapter shall apply to all hazardous materials, including
those materials regulated elsewhere in this code, except that
when specific requirements are provided in other chapters,
those specific requirements shall apply in accordance with the
applicable chapter. Where a material has multiple hazards, all
hazards shall be addressed.
Exceptions:
1. The quantities of alcoholic beverages, medicines,
foodstuffs, cosmetics and consumer or industrial
products containing not more than 50 percent by
volume of water-miscible liquids and with the
remainder of the solutions not being flammable, in
retail or wholesale sales occupancies, are unlimited
when packaged in individual containers not exceed-
ing 1.3 gallons (5 L).
2. Application and release of pesticide and agricultural
products and materials intended for use in weed
abatement, erosion control, soil amendment or simi-
lar applications when applied in accordance with the
manufacturers' instructions and label directions.
3. The off-site transportation of hazardous materials
when in accordance with Department of Transporta-
tion (DOTn) regulations.
4. Building materials not otherwise regulated by this
code.
5. Refrigeration systems (see Section 606).
6. Stationary storage battery systems regulated by Sec-
tion 608.
7. The display, storage, sale or use of fireworks and
explosives in accordance with Chapter 33.
8. Corrosives utilized in personal and household prod-
ucts in the manufacturers' original consumer pack-
aging in Group M occupancies.
9. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden
barrels and casks.
10. The use of wall-mounted dispensers containing
alcohol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or II
Uquids when in accordance with Section 3405.5.
2701.1.1 Waiver. The provisions of this chapter are waived
when the fire code official determines that such enforce-
ment is preempted by other codes, statutes or ordinances.
The details of any action granting such a waiver shall be
recorded and entered in the files of the code enforcement
agency.
2701.2 Material classification. Hazardous materials are those
chemicals or substances defined as such in this code. Defini-
tions of hazardous materials shall apply to all hazardous mate-
rials, including those materials regulated elsewhere in this
code.
2701.2.1 Mixtures. Mixtures shall be classified in accor-
dance with hazards of the mixture as a whole. Mixtures of
hazardous materials shall be classified in accordance with
nationally recognized reference standards; by an approved
qualified organization, individual, or Material Safety Data
Sheet (MSDS); or by other approved methods.
2701.2.2 Hazard categories. Hazardous materials shall be
classified according to hazard categories. The categories
include materials regulated by this chapter and materials
regulated elsewhere in this code.
2701.2.2.1 Physical hazards. The material categories
listed in this section are classified as physical hazards. A
material with a primary classification as a physical haz-
ard can also pose a health hazard.
1. Explosives and blasting agents.
2. Flammable and combustible liquids.
3. Flammable solids and gases.
4. Organic peroxide materials.
5. Oxidizer materials.
6. Pyrophoric materials.
7. Unstable (reactive) materials.
8. Water-reactive solids and liquids.
9. Cryogenic fluids.
2701.2.2.2 Health hazards. The material categories
listed in this section are classified as health hazards. A
material with a primary classification as a health hazard
can also pose a physical hazard.
1. Highly toxic and toxic materials.
2. Corrosive materials.
2701.3 Performance-based design alternative. When
approved by the fire code official, buildings and facilities
where hazardous materials are stored, used or handled shall be
permitted to comply with this section as an alternative to com-
pliance with the other requirements set forth in this chapter and
Chapters 28 through 44.
2701.3.1 Objective. The objective of Section 2701.3 is to
protect people and property from the consequences of unau-
thorized discharge, fires or explosions involving hazardous
materials.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
237
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2701.3.2 Functional statements. Performance-based
design alternatives are based on the following functional
statements:
1 . Provide safeguards to minimize the risk of unwanted
releases, fires or explosions involving hazardous
materials.
2. Provide safeguards to minimize the consequences of
an unsafe condition involving hazardous materials
during normal operations and in the event of an
abnormal condition.
2701.3.3 Performance requirements. When safeguards,
systems, documentation, written plans or procedures,
audits, process hazards analysis, mitigation measures, engi-
neering controls or construction features are required by
Sections 2701.3.3.1 through 2701.3.3.18, the details of the
design alternative shall be subject to approval by the code
official. The details of actions granting the use of the design
alternatives shall be recorded and entered in the files of the
jurisdiction.
2701.3.3.1 Properties of hazardous materials. The
physical and health-hazard properties of hazardous
materials on site shall be known and shall be made
readily available to employees, neighbors and the fire
code official.
2701.3.3.2 Reliability of equipment and operations.
Equipment and operations involving hazardous materi-
als shall be designed, installed and maintained to ensure
that they reliably operate as intended.
2701.3.3.3 Prevention of unintentional reaction or
release. Safeguards shall be provided to minimize the
risk of an unintentional reaction or release that could
endanger people or property.
2701.3.3.4 Spill mitigation. Spill containment systems
or means to render a spill harmless to people or property
shall be provided where a spill is determined to be a plau-
sible event and where such an event would endanger peo-
ple or property.
2701.3.3.5 Ignition hazards. Safeguards shall be pro-
vided to minimize the risk of exposing combustible haz-
ardous materials to unintended sources of ignition.
2701.3.3.6 Protection of hazardous materials. Safe-
guards shall be provided to minimize the risk of exposing
hazardous materials to a fire or physical damage
whereby such exposure could endanger or lead to the
endangerment of people or property.
2701.3.3.7 Exposure hazards. Safeguards shall be pro-
vided to minimize the risk of and limit damage from a
fire or explosion involving explosive hazardous materi-
als whereby such fire or explosion could endanger or
lead to the endangerment of people or property.
2701.3.3.8 Detection of gas or vapor release. Where a
release of hazardous materials gas or vapor would cause
immediate harm to persons or property, means of miti-
gating the dangerous effects of a release shall be pro-
vided.
2701.3.3.9 Reliable power source. Where a power sup-
ply is relied upon to prevent or control an emergency
condition that could endanger people or property, the
power supply shall be from a reliable source.
2701.3.3.10 Ventilation. Where ventilation is necessary
to limit the risk of creating an emergency condition
resulting from normal or abnormal operations, means of
ventilation shall be provided.
2701.3.3.11 Process hazard analyses. Process hazard
analyses shall be conducted to ensure reasonably the pro-
tection of people and property from dangerous condi-
tions involving hazardous materials.
2701.3.3.12 Pre-startup safety review. Written docu-
mentation of pre-startup safety review procedures shall
be developed and enforced to ensure that operations are
initiated in a safe manner. The process of developing and
updating such procedures shall involve the participation
of affected employees.
2701.3.3.13 Operating and emergency procedures.
Written documentation of operating procedures and pro-
cedures for emergency shut down shall be developed and
enforced to ensure that operations are conducted in a safe
manner. The process of developing and updating such
procedures shall involve the participation of affected
employees.
2701.3.3.14 Management of change. A written plan for
management of change shall be developed and enforced.
The process of developing and updating the plan shall
involve the participation of affected employees.
2701.3.3.15 Emergency plan. A written emergency
plan shall be developed to ensure that proper actions are
taken in the event of an emergency, and the plan shall be
followed if an emergency condition occurs. The process
of developing and updating the plan shall involve the par-
ticipation of affected employees.
2701.3.3.16 Accident procedures. Written procedures
for investigation and documentation of accidents shall be
developed, and accidents shall be investigated and docu-
mented in accordance with these procedures.
2701.3.3.17 Consequence analysis. Where an acciden-
tal release of hazardous materials could endanger people
or property, either on or off-site, an analysis of the
expected consequences of a plausible release shall be
performed and utilized in the analysis and selection of
active and passive hazard mitigation controls.
2701.3.3.18 Safety audits. Safety audits shall be con-
ducted on a periodic basis to verify compliance with the
requirements of this section.
2701.4 Retail and wholesale storage and display. For retail
and wholesale storage and display of nonflammable solid and
nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials
in Group M occupancies and storage in Group S occupancies,
see Section 2703.11.
238
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2701.5 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
When required by the fire code official, permittees shall
apply for approval to permanently close a storage, use or han-
dling facility. Such application shall be submitted at least 30
days prior to the termination of the storage, use or handling of
hazardous materials. The fire code official is authorized to
require that the application be accompanied by an approved
facility closure plan in accordance with Section 2701.6.3.
2701.5.1 Hazardous Materials Management Plan.
Where required by the fire code official, each application
for a permit shall include a Hazardous Materials Manage-
ment Plan (HMMP). The HMMP shall include a facility site
plan designating the following:
1. Storage and use areas.
2. Maximum amount of each material stored or used in
each area.
3. Range of container sizes.
4. Locations of emergency isolation and mitigation
valves and devices.
5 . Product conveying piping containing liquids or gases,
other than utility-owned fuel gas lines and low-pres-
sure fuel gas lines.
6. On and off positions of valves for valves that are of
the self-indicating type.
7. Storage plan showing the intended storage arrange-
ment, including the location and dimensions of aisles.
8. The location and type of emergency equipment.The
plans shall be legible and drawn approximately to
scale. Separate distribution systems are allowed to be
shown on separate pages.
2701.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement
(HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an appli-
cation for a permit shall include an HMIS, such as SARA
(Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986)
Title III, Tier II Report, or other approved statement. The
HMIS shall include the following information:
1. Manufacturer's name.
2. Chemical name, trade names, hazardous ingredients.
3. Hazard classification.
4. MSDS or equivalent.
5. United Nations (UN), North America (NA) or the
Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) identificadon
number.
6. Maximum quantity stored or used on-site at one time.
7 . Storage conditions related to the storage type, temper-
ature and pressure.
2701.6 Facility closure. Facilities shall be placed out of ser-
vice in accordance with Sections 2701.6.1 through 2701.6.3.
2701.6.1 Temporarily out-of-service facilities. Facitities
that are temporarily out of service shall continue to maintain
a permit and be monitored and inspected.
2701.6.2 Permanently out-of-service facilities. Facilities
for which a permit is not kept current or is not monitored and
inspected on a regular basis shall be deemed to be perma-
nently out of service and shall be closed in an approved
manner. When required by the fire code official, permittees
shall apply for approval to close permanently storage, use or
handling facilities. The fire code official is authorized to
require that such application be accompanied by an
approved facility closure plan in accordance with Section
2701.6.3.
2701.6.3 Facility closure plan. When a facility closure plan
is required in accordance with Section 2701.5 to terminate
storage, dispensing, handling or use of hazardous materials,
it shall be submitted to the fire code official at least 30 days
prior to facility closure. The plan shall demonstrate that haz-
ardous materials which are stored, dispensed, handled or
used in the facility will be transported, disposed of or reused
in a manner that eliminates the need for further maintenance
and any threat to public health and safety.
SECTION 2702
DEFINITIONS
2702.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter, Chapters 28 through 44 and as
used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.
BOILING POINT. The temperature at which the vapor pres-
sure of a liquid equals the atmospheric pressure of 14.7 pounds
per square inch (psia) (101 kPa) or 760 mm of mercury. Where
an accurate boiling point is unavailable for the material in ques-
tion, or for mixtures which do not have a constant boiling point,
for the purposes of this classification, the 20-percent evapo-
rated point of a distillation performed in accordance with
ASTM D 86 shall be used as the boiling point of the liquid.
CEILING LIMIT. The maximum concentration of an
air-borne contaminant to which one may be exposed. The ceil-
ing limits utilized are those published in DDL 29 CFR Part
1910.1000. The ceiling Recommended Exposure Limit
(REL-C) concentrations published by the U.S. National Insti-
tute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Threshold
Limit Value — Ceiling (TLV-C) concentrations published by
the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygenists (ACGIH), ceiling Workplace Environmental Expo-
sure Level (WEEL-Ceiling) Guides published by the American
Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), and other approved,
consistent measures are allowed as surrogates for hazardous
substances not hsted in DDL 29 CFR Part 1910.1000.
CHEMICAL. An element, chemical compound or mixture of
elements or compounds or both.
CHEMICAL NAME. The scientific designation of a chemi-
cal in accordance with the nomenclature system developed by
the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, the
Chemical Abstracts Service rules of nomenclature, or a name
which will clearly identify a chemical for the purpose of con-
ducting an evaluation.
CLOSED CONTAINER. A container sealed by means of a lid
or other device such that liquid, vapor or dusts will not escape
from it under ordinary conditions of use or handling.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
239
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
CONTAINER. A vessel of 60 gallons (227 L) or less in capac-
ity used for transporting or storing hazardous materials. Pipes,
piping systems, engines and engine fuel tanks are not consid-
ered to be containers.
CONTROL AREA. Spaces within a building where quanti-
ties of hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantities per control area are stored, dispensed, used or
I handled. See also the definition of "Outdoor control area."
CYLINDER. A pressure vessel designed for pressures higher
than 40 psia (275.6 kPa) and having a circular cross section. It
does not include a portable tank, multi-unit tank car tank, cargo
tank or tank car.
I DAY BOX. A portable magazine designed to hold explosive
materials constructed in accordance with the requirements for
a Type 3 magazine as defined and classified in Chapter 33.
DEFLAGRATION. An exothermic reaction, such as the
extremely rapid oxidation of a flammable dust or vapor in air,
in which the reaction progresses through the unbumed material
at a rate less than the velocity of sound. A deflagration can have
an explosive effect.
DESIGN PRESSURE. The maximum gauge pressure that a
pressure vessel, device, component or system is designed to
withstand safely under the temperature and conditions of use
expected.
DETACHED BUILDING. A separate single-story building,
without a basement or crawl space, used for the storage or use
of hazardous materials and located an approved distance from
all structures.
DISPENSING. The pouring or transferring of any material
from a container, tank or similar vessel, whereby vapors, dusts,
fumes, mists or gases are liberated to the atmosphere.
EXCESS FLOW CONTROL. A fail-safe system or other
approved means designed to shut off flow caused by a rupture
in pressurized piping systems.
EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE. An appliance or piece of
equipment which consists of a top, a back and two sides provid-
ing a means of local exhaust for capturing gases, fumes, vapors
and mists. Such enclosures include laboratory hoods, exhaust
fume hoods and similar appliances and equipment used to
retain and exhaust locally the gases, fumes, vapors and mists
that could be released. Rooms or areas provided with general
ventilation, in themselves, are not exhausted enclosures.
EXPLOSION. An effect produced by the sudden violent
expansion of gases, which may be accompanied by a shock
wave or disruption, or both, of enclosing materials or struc-
tures. An explosion could result from any of the following:
1 . Chemical changes such as rapid oxidation, deflagration
or detonation, decomposition of molecules and runaway
polymerization (usually detonations).
2. Physical changes such as pressure tank ruptures.
3. Atomic changes (nuclear fission or fusion).
FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES. The concentration
of flammable constituents in air that exceeds 25 percent of their
lower flammable limit (LFL).
GAS CABINET. A fully enclosed, noncombustible enclosure
used to provide an isolated environment for compressed gas
cylinders in storage or use. Doors and access ports for exchang-
ing cylinders and accessing pressure-regulating controls are
allowed to be included.
GAS ROOM. A separately ventilated, fully enclosed room in
which only compressed gases and associated equipment and
suppHes are stored or used.
HANDLING. The deliberate transport by any means to a point
of storage or use.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Those chemicals or sub-
stances which are physical hazards or health hazards as defined
and classified in this chapter, whether the materials are in
usable or waste condition.
HEALTH HAZARD. A classification of a chemical for which
there is statistically significant evidence that acute or chronic
health effects are capable of occurring in exposed persons. The
term "health hazard" includes chemicals that are toxic, highly
toxic and corrosive.
IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND HEALTH
(IDLH). The concentration of air-borne contaminants that
poses a threat of death, immediate or delayed permanent
adverse health effects, or effects that could prevent escape from
such an environment. This contaminant concentration level is
established by the National Institute of Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) based on both toxicity and flammability.
It generally is expressed in parts per million by volume (ppm
v/v) or milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m^). If adequate data do
not exist for precise establishment of IDLH concentrations, an
independent certified industrial hygienist, industrial toxicolo-
gist, appropriate regulatory agency or other source approved
by the fire code official shall make such determination.
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS. Materials that, when
mixed, have the potential to react in a manner which generates
heat, fumes, gases or byproducts which are hazardous to life or
property.
LIQUID. A material having a melting point that is equal to or
less than 68°F (20°C) and a boiling point which is greater than
68°F (20°C) at 14.7 psia (101 kPa). When not otherwise identi-
fied, the term "liquid" includes both flammable and combusti-
ble liquids.
LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (LEL). See "Lower flamma
ble limit."
LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL). The minimum con-
centration of vapor in air at which propagation of flame will
occur in the presence of an ignition source. The LFL is some-
times referred to as LEL or lower explosive limit.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET (MSDS). Information
concerning a hazardous material which is prepared in accor-
dance with the provisions of DDL 29 CFR Part 1910. 1200 or in
accordance with the provisions of a federally approved state
OSHA plan.
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CON-
TROL AREA. The maximum amount of a hazardous material
allowed to be stored or used within a control area inside a build-
ing or an outdoor control area. The maximum allowable quan-
•
240
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
tity per control area is based on the material state (solid, liquid
or gas) and the material storage or use conditions.
NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE (NTP). A
temperature of 70°F (21°C) and a pressure of 1 atmosphere
[14.7 psia (101 kPa)].
OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA. An outdoor area that con-
tains hazardous materials in amounts not exceeding the maxi-
mum allowable quantities of Table 2703 . 1 . 1 (3) or 2703 . 1 . 1 (4) .
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE LIMIT (PEL). The maximum
permitted 8-hour time-weighted-average concentration of an
air-borne contaminant. The exposure limits to be utilized are
those published in DDL 29 CFR Part 1910.1000. The Recom-
mended Exposure Limit (REL) concentrations published by
the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH), Threshold Limit Value-Time Weighted Average
(TLV-TWA) concentrations published by the American Con-
ference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH),
Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL) Guides
published by the American Industrial Hygiene Association
(AIHA), and other approved, consistent measures are allowed
as surrogates for hazardous substances not listed in DDL 29
CFR Part 1910.1000.
PESTICIDE. A substance or mixture of substances, including
fungicides, intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or
mitigating pests and substances or a mixture of substances
intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant.
Products defined as drugs in the Federal Food, Drug and Cos-
metic Act are not pesticides.
PHYSICAL HAZARD. A chemical for which there is evi-
dence that it is a combustible liquid, compressed gas, cryo-
genic, explosive, flammable gas, flammable liquid, flammable
solid, organic peroxide, oxidizer, pyrophoric or unstable (reac-
tive) or water-reactive material.
PRESSURE VESSEL. A closed vessel designed to operate at
pressures above 15 psig (103 kPa).
SAFETY CAN. An approved container of not more than
5 -gallon (19 L) capacity having a spring-closing lid and spout
cover so designed that it will relieve internal pressure when
subjected to fire exposure.
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT. That level of containment
that is external to and separate from primary containment.
SEGREGATED. Storage in the same room or inside area, but
physically separated by distance from incompatible materials.
SOLID. A material that has a melting point and decomposes or
sublimes at a temperature greater than 68°F (20°C).
STORAGE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. The keeping,
retention or leaving of hazardous materials in closed contain-
ers, tanks, cylinders, or similar vessels; or vessels supplying
operations through closed connections to the vessel.
I SYSTEM. An assembly of equipment consisting of a tank,
container or containers, appurtenances, pumps, compressors
and connecting piping.
TANK, ATMOSPHERIC. A storage tank designed to operate
at pressures from atmospheric through 1 .0 pound per square
inch gauge (760 mm Hg through 812 mm Hg) measured at the
top of the tank.
TANK, PORTABLE. A packaging of more than 60-gallon
(227 L) capacity and designed primarily to be loaded into or on
or temporarily attached to a transport vehicle or ship and
equipped with skids, mountings or accessories to facilitate han-
dling of the tank by mechanical means. It does not include any
cylinder having less than a 1,000-pound (454 kg) water capac-
ity, cargo tank, tank car tank or trailers carrying cylinders of
more than 1,000-pound (454 kg) water capacity.
TANK, STATIONARY. Packaging designed primarily for
stationary installations not intended for loading, unloading or
attachment to a transport vehicle as part of its normal operation
in the process of use. It does not include cylinders having less
than a 1,000-pound (454 kg) water capacity.
TANK VEHICLE. A vehicle other than a railroad tank car or
boat, with a cargo tank mounted thereon or built as an integral
part thereof, used for the transportation of flammable or com-
bustible liquids, LP-gas or hazardous chemicals. Tank vehicles
include self-propelled vehicles and full trailers and
semitrailers, with or without motive power, and carrying part or
all of the load.
UNAUTHORIZED DISCHARGE. A release or emission of
materials in a manner which does not conform to the provisions
of this code or applicable public health and safety regulations.
USE (MATERIAL). Placing a material into action, including
solids, liquids and gases.
VAPOR PRESSURE. The pressure exerted by a volatile fluid
as determined in accordance with ASTM D 323.
SECTION 2703
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
2703.1 Scope. The storage, use and handling of all hazardous
materials shall be in accordance with this section.
2703.1.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control area.
The maximum allowable quantity per control area shall be
as specified in Tables 2703.1.1(1) through 2703.1.1(4).
For retail and wholesale storage and display in Group M
occupancies and Group S storage, see Section 2703.11.
2703.1.2 Conversion. Where quantities are indicated in
pounds and when the weight per gallon of the liquid is not
provided to the fire code official, a conversion factor of 10
pounds per gallon (1.2 kg/L) shall be used.
2703.1.3 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allovF-
able quantity per control area. The storage, use and han-
dling of hazardous materials in quantities not exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in
Tables 2703.1.1(1) through 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701 and 2703.
2703.1.4 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of hazard-
ous materials in quantities exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area indicated in Tables
2703.1.1(1) through 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance
with this chapter.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
241
TABLE 2703.1.1(1)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS POSING A PHYSICAL HAZARD^ ''"" p
MATERIAL
CLASS
GROUP WHEN
THE MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE
QUANTITY IS
EXCEEDED
STORAGE"
USE-CLOSED SYSTEMS"
USE-OPEN SYSTEMS"
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Combustible
liquid'^' '
II
IIIA
IIIB
H-2 or H-3
H-2 or H-3
Not Applicable
Not
Applicable
120'i'^
330^1'^
13,200^' f
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
120''
330"
13,200^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
30"
80"
3,300^
Combustible fiber
Loose
Baled"
H-3
(100)
(1,000)
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
(100)
(1,000)
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
(20)
(200)
Not
Applicable
Cryogenic
Flammable
Not
Applicable
H-2
Not
Applicable
45^^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
45"
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
10"
Consumer fireworks
(Class C Common)
1.4G
H-3
125d,e,l
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Cryogenic
Oxidizing
Not
Applicable
H-3
Not
Applicable
45''
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
45"
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
10"
Explosives
Division 1.1
Division 1.2
Division 1.3
Division 1.4
Division 1.4G
Division 1.5
Division 1.6
H-1
H-1
H-1 or H-2
H-3
H-3
H-1
H-1
ie,g
5e,g
50'='g
125d,e,i
ie,g
ld,e,g
(l)e,g
(l)e.g
(5)^' 8
(50)^' 8
Not
Applicable
(l)e,g
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
0.258
0.258
18
508
Not
Applicable
0.258
Not
Applicable
(0.25)8
(0.25)8
(1)8
(50)8
Not
Applicable
(0.25)8
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
0.258
0.258
18
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
0.258
Not
Applicable
(0.25)8
(0.25)8
(1)8
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
(0.25)8
Not
Applicable
Flammable gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
H-2
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
30'^'^
1,000''''=
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
30"'^
1,000"'^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Flammable liquids''
lA
IB and IC
H-2
or
H-3
Not
Applicable
30"'^
120"'^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
30"
120"
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
10"
30"
Combination
Flammable liquid
(lA, IB, IC)
Not
Applicable
H-2
or
H-3
Not
Applicable
120'''^'h
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
120"'"^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
30"'*^
Flammable solid
Not
Applicable
H-3
125'''^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
125"
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
25"
Not
Applicable
Organic peroxide
UD
I
II
III
IV
V
H-1
H-2
H-3
H-3
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
p,g
5d,e
SO'i'^
Not Limited
Not Limited
(l)e,g
(5)'*''^
(50)"'^
(125)"'^
Not Limited
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
0.258
1"
50"
125''
Not Limited
Not Limited
(0.25)8
(1)"
(50)"
(125)"
Not Limited
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
0.258
1"
10"
25"
Not Limited
Not Limited
(0.25>8
(1)"
(10)"
(25)"
Not Limited
Not Limited
(con.
TABLE 2703.1.1(1)— (continued)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS POSING A PHYSICAL HAZARD^ *'""• p
MATERIAL
CLASS
GROUP
WHEN THE
MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE
QUANTITY IS
EXCEEDED
STORAGE"
USE-CLOSED SYSTEMS"
USE-OPEN SYSTEMS"
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
(cubic feet)
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Oxidizer
4
2
1
H-1
H-2 or H-3
H-3
Not Applicable
18
250'^'*
4,000^'f
(l)e,g
(10)d.e
(250)'^'^
(4,000)^'f
Not
Applicable
0.258
2''
250'^
4,000f
(0.25)8
(2)''
(250)'^
(4,000)f
Not
Applicable
0.258
2"
SO''
1,000^
(0.25)8
(2)"
(50)"
(l,000)f
Oxidizing gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
H-3
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
15'^'^
l,500'i'«
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
15d,e
l.SOO''-^
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Pyrophoric
Not
Applicable
H-2
4e,g
(4)e,g
50^' g
18
(1)8
10=. g
Unstable (reactive)
4
3
2
1
H-1
H-1 or H-2
H-3
Not Applicable
ie,g
5d,e
Not Limited
(l)e,g
(SO)'''^
Not Limited
10=. g
250^-^
Not Limited
0.258
l'»
50*^
Not Limited
(0.25)8
(I)'*
(SO)''
Not Limited
2='g
10d,e
250'*'^
Not Limited
0.258
1"
10"
Not Limited
(0.25)8
(1)"
(10)"
Not Limited
Water reactive
3
2
1
H-2
H-3
Not Applicable
5d.e
50'^'*
Not Limited
(50)"'^
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
5''
50^1
Not Limited
(5)"
(50)''
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
1"
10"
Not Limited
(1)"
(10)"
Not Limited
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. For use of control areas, see Section 2703.8.3.
b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
c. The quantities of alcoholic beverages in retail and wholesale sales occupancies shall not be limited providing the liquids are packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1 .3 gallons. In retail and wholesale sales
occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuffs, consumer or industrial products, and cosmetics containing not more than 50 percent by volume of water-miscible liquids with the remainder of the solutions not
being flammable shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
d. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3. 1 .1. Where Note e also applies, the
increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent when stored in approved storage cabinets, day boxes, gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or safety cans. Where Note d also applies, the increase for
both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
f Quantities shall not be limited in a building equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
g. Allowed only in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
h. Containing not more than the maximum allowable quantity per control area of Class lA, Class IB or Class IC flammable liquids.
i. Inside a building, the maximum capacity of a combustible liquid storage system that is connected to a fuel-oil piping system shall be 660 gallons provided such system complies with this code.
j. Quantities in parenthesis indicate quantity units in parenthesis at the head of each column.
k. A maximum quantity of 200 pounds of solid or 20 gallons of liquid Class 3 oxidizers is allowed when such materials are necessary for maintenance purposes, operation or sanitation of equipment when the storage
containers and the manner of storage are approved.
1. Net weight of pyrotechnic composition of the fireworks. Where the net weight of the pyrotechnic composition of the fireworks is not known, 25 percent of the gross weight of the fireworks including packaging shall
be used.
m.For gallons of hquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 2703.1.2.
n. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11, see Table 2703.11.1.
o. Densely-packed baled cotton that complies with the packing requirements of ISQ 81 15 shall not be included in this material class,
p. The following shall not be included in determining the maximum allowable quantities:
1. Liquid or gaseous fuel in fuel tanks on vehicles.
2. Liquid or gaseous fuel in fuel tanks on motorized equipment operated in accordance with this code.
3. Gaseous fuels in piping systems and fixed appliances regulated by the International Fuel Gas Code.
4. Liquid fuels in piping systems and fixed appliances, regulated by the International Mechanical Code.
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TABLE 2703.1.1(2)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL POSING A HEALTH HAZARD® •"=■'
MATERIAL
STORAGE"
USE-CLOSED SYSTEIMS"
USE-OPEN SYSTEIVIS''
Solid
pounds®' '
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)®' '
Gas
cubic feet at NTP®
Solid
pounds®
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)®
Gas
cubic feet at NTP®
Solid
pounds®
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)®
Corrosive
5,000
500
SlO^'g
5,000
500
SlO^'g
1,000
100
Highly toxic
10
(loy
lO''
10
(loy
■ 20"
3
(3)'
Toxic
500
(500)'
810f
500
(500)'
810f
125
(125)'
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. For use of control areas, see Section 2703.8.3.
b. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuffs consumer or industrial products, and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of water-miscible liquids and with
the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
c. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11, see Table 2703.11.1.
d. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903 .3. 1 . 1 . Where Note f also applies, the
increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
f . Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent when stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets, or exhausted enclosures. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied
accumulatively.
g. A single cylinder containing 150 pounds or less of anhydrous ammonia in a single control area in a nonsprinklered building shall be considered a maximum allowable quantity. Two cylinders, each containing 150
pounds or less in a single control area shall be considered a maximum allowable quantity provided the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903 .3. 1 . 1 .
h. Allowed only when stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures,
i. Quantities in parenthesis indicate quantity units in parenthesis at the head of each column,
j. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 2703. 1 .2.
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TABLE 2703.1.1(3)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS POSING A PHYSICAL HAZARD IN AN OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA^ •"=
MATERIAL
CLASS
STORAGE"
USE-CLOSED SYSTEMS"
USE-OPEN systems"
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet
atNTP
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Flammable gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
Not
Applicable
Not Applicable
30
3,000
Not Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not Applicable
15
1,500
Not Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Flammable solid
Not
Applicable
500
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
250
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
50
Not
Applicable
Organic
peroxide
Unclassified
Detonable
1
(1)
Not
Applicable
0.25
(0.25)"
Not
Applicable
0.25
(0.25)"
Organic
peroxide
I
II
III
IV
V
20
200
500
1,000
Not Limited
(20)''
(200)"
(500)''
(1,000)''
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
10
100
250
500
'Not Limited
(10)"
(100)"
(250)"
(500)"
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
2
20
50
100
Not Limited
(2)"
(20)"
(50)"
(100)"
Not Limited
Oxidizer
4
3
2
1
2
40
1,000
Not Limited
(2)"
(40)"
(1,000)''
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
1
20
500
Not Limited
(1)"
(20)"
(500)"
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
0.25
4
100
Not Limited
(0.25)"
(4)"
(100)"
Not Limited
Oxidizing gas
Gaseous
Liquefied
Not
Applicable
Not Applicable
60
6,000
Not Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not Applicable
30
3,000
Not Applicable
Not
Applicable
Not
Applicable
Pyrophoric
materials
Not
Applicable
8
(8)"
100
4
(4)"
10
Unstable
(reactive)
4
3
2
1
2
20
200
Not Limited
(2)"
(20)''
(200)''
Not Limited
20
200
1,000
1,500
1
10
100
Not Limited
(1)"
(10)"
(100)"
Not Limited
2
10
250
Not Limited
0.25
1
10
Not Limited
(0.25)"
1
10
Not Limited
Water reactive
3
2
1
20
200
Not Limited
(20)"
(200)"
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
10
100
Not Limited
(10)"
(100)"
Not Limited
Not
Applicable
1
10
Not Limited
(1)"
(10)"
Not Limited
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 2703.1.2.
b. The aggregate quantities in storage and use shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
c. The aggregate quantity of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials allowed in outdoor storage per single property under the same ownership or control used for retail or
wholesale sales is allowed to exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area when such storage is in accordance with Section 2703.1 1.
d. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
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TABLE 2703.1.1(4)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS POSING A HEALTH HAZARD IN AN OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA^ "■=
MATERIAL
STORAGE
USE-CLOSED SYSTEIWS
USE-OPEN SYSTEMS
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet at NTP
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Gas
cubic feet at NTP
Solid
pounds
Liquid
gallons
(pounds)
Corrosives
20,000
2,000
l,620g
10,000
1,000
8108
1,000
100
Highly toxics
20
(2oy
40^1
10
(10/
20'*
3
(3)f
Toxics
1,000
(1,000)^' f
1,620
500
50*=
810
25
(25r'f
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = [(°F)-32/1.8].
a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 2703.1.2.
b. The aggregate quantities in storage and use shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
c. The aggregate quantity of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials allowed in outdoor storage per single property under the same ownership or control used for retail or
wholesale sales is allowed to exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area when such storage is in accordance with Section 2703.1 1.
d. Allowed only when used in approved exhausted gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or under fume hoods.
e. The maximum allowable quantity per control area for toxic hquids with vapor pressures in excess of 1 psia at 77 °F shall be the maximum allowable quantity per control area listed for highly toxic liquids.
f. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
g. Two cylinders, each cylinder containing 150 pounds or less of anhydrous ammonia, shall be considered a maximum allowable quantity in an outdoor control area.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2703.2 Systems, equipment and processes. Systems, equip-
ment and processes utilized for storage, dispensing, use or han-
dling of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with
Sections 2703.2.1 through 2703.2.8.
2703.2.1 Design and construction of containers, cylin-
ders and tanks. Containers, cylinders and tanks shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with approved stan-
dards. Containers, cylinders, tanks and other means used for
containment of hazardous materials shall be of an approved
type.
2703.2.2 Piping, tubing, valves and fittings. Piping, tub-
ing, valves and fittings conveying hazardous materials shall
be designed and installed in accordance with approved stan-
dards and shall be in accordance with Sections 2703.2.2.1
and 2703.2.2.2.
2703.2.2.1 Design and construction. Piping, tubing,
valves, fittings and related components used for hazard-
ous materials shall be in accordance with the following:
1 . Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related compo-
nents shall be designed and fabricated from mate-
rials that are compatible with the material to be
contained and shall be of adequate strength and
durability to withstand the pressure, structural and
seismic stress and exposure to which they are sub-
ject.
2. Piping and tubing shall be identified in accordance
with ASME A 13.1 to indicate the material con-
veyed.
3. Readily accessible manual valves or automatic
remotely activated fail-safe emergency shutoff
valves shall be installed on supply piping and tub-
ing at the following locations:
3.1. The point of use.
3.2. The tank, cylinder or bulk source.
4. Manual emergency shutoff valves and controls for
remotely activated emergency shutoff valves shall
be identified and the location shall be clearly visi-
ble, accessible and indicated by means of a sign.
5. Backflow prevention or check valves shall be pro-
vided when the backflow of hazardous materials
could create a hazardous condition or cause the
unauthorized discharge of hazardous materials.
6. Where gases or liquids having a hazard ranking of :
Health hazard Class 3 or 4
Flammability Class 4
Reactivity Class 3 or 4
in accordance with NFPA 704 are carried in pres-
surized 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 origi-
nates 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 pre-
vent backflow.
2. Piping for pressure rehef devices.
2703.2.2.2 Additional regulations for supply piping
for health-hazard materials. Supply piping and tubing
for gases and liquids having a health-hazard ranking of 3
or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 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 liq-
uids and gases shall have welded, threaded or
flanged connections throughout except for con-
nections located within a ventilated enclosure if
the material is a gas, or an approved method of
drainage or containment is provided for connec-
tions if the material is a liquid.
2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corri-
dors, 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 415.8.6.3 of the International Building
Code for Group H-5 occupancies.
2703.2.3 Equipment, machinery and alarms. Equipment,
machinery and required detection and alarm systems asso-
ciated with the use, storage or handling of hazardous materi-
als shall be listed or approved.
2703.2.4 Installation of tanks. Installation of tanks shall be
in accordance with Sections 2703.2.4.1 through
2703.2.4.2.1.
2703.2.4.1 Underground tanks. Underground tanks
used for the storage of liquid hazardous materials shall
be provided with secondary containment. In lieu of pro-
viding secondary containment for an underground tank,
an above-ground tank in an underground vault comply-
ing with Section 3404.2.8 shall be permitted.
2703.2.4.2 Above-ground tanks. Above-ground sta-
tionary tanks used for the storage of hazardous materials
shall be located and protected in accordance with the
requirements for outdoor storage of the particular mate-
rial involved.
Exception: Above-ground tanks that are installed in
vaults complying with Section 3003.16 or 3404.2.8
shall not be required to comply with location and pro-
tection requirements for outdoor storage.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2703.2.4.2.1 Marking. Above-ground stationary
tanks shall be marked as required by Section 2703.5.
2703.2.5 Empty containers and tanks. Empty containers
and tanks previously used for the storage of hazardous
materials shall be free from residual material and vapor as
defined by DOTn, the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) or other regulating authority or maintained as
specified for the storage of hazardous material.
2703.2.6 Maintenance. In addition to the requirements of
Section 2703.2.3, equipment, machinery and required
detection and alarm systems associated with hazardous
materials shall be maintained in an operable condition.
Defective containers, cylinders and tanks shall be removed
from service, repaired or disposed of in an approved man-
ner. Defective equipment or machinery shall be removed
from service and repaired or replaced. Required detection
and alarm systems shall be replaced or repaired where
defective.
2703.2.6.1 Tanks out of service for 90 days. Stationary
tanks not used for a period of 90 days shall be properly
safeguarded or removed in an approved manner. Such
tanks shall have the fill line, gauge opening and pump
connection secured against tampering. Vent lines shall
be properly maintained.
2703.2.6.1.1 Return to service. Tanks that are to be
placed back in service shall be tested in an approved
manner.
2703.2.6.2 Defective containers and tanks. Defective
containers and tanks shall be removed from service,
repaired in accordance with approved standards or dis-
posed of in an approved manner.
2703.2.7 Liquid-level limit control. Atmospheric tanks
having a capacity greater than 500 gallons (1893 L) and
which contain hazardous material liquids shall be equipped
with a liquid-level limit control or other approved means to
prevent overfilling of the tank.
2703.2.8 Seismic protection. Machinery and equipment
utilizing hazardous materials shall be braced and anchored
in accordance with the seismic design requirements of the
International Building Code for the seismic design category
in which the machinery or equipment is classified.
2703.2.9 Testing. The equipment, devices and systems
hsted in Section 2703.2.9.1 shall be tested at one of the
intervals listed in Section 2703.2.9.2. Written records of the
tests conducted or maintenance performed shall be main-
tained in accordance with the provisions of Section 1 07 .2. 1 .
Exceptions:
1 . Testing shall not be required where approved writ-
ten documentation is provided stating that testing
will damage the equipment, device or system and
the equipment, device or system is maintained as
specified by the manufacturer.
2. Testing shall not be required for equipment,
devices and systems that fail in a fail-safe manner.
3. Testing shall not be required for equipment,
devices and systems that self-diagnose and report
trouble. Records of the self-diagnosis and trouble
reporting shall be made available to the authority
having jurisdiction.
4. Testing shall not be required if system activation
occurs during the required test cycle for the com-
ponents activated during the test cycle.
5. Approved maintenance in accordance with Sec-
tion 2703.2.6 that is performed not less than annu-
ally or in accordance with an approved schedule
shall be allowed to meet the testing requirements
set forth in Sections 2703.2.9.1 and 2703.2.9.2.
2703.2.9.1 Equipment, devices and systems requiring
testing. The following equipment, systems and devices
shall be tested in accordance with Sections 2703.2.9 and
2703.2.9.2.
1. Gas detection systems, alarms and automatic
emergency shutoff valves required by Section
3704.2.2.10 for highly toxic and toxic gases.
2. Limit control systems for liquid level, temperature
and pressure required by Sections 2703.2.7,
2704.8 and 2705.1.4.
3. Emergency alarm systems and supervision
required by Sections 2704.9 and 2705.4.4.
4. Monitoring and supervisory systems required by
Sections 2704.10 and 2705.1.6.
5. Manually activated shutdown controls required by
Section 4103.1.1.1 for compressed gas systems
conveying pyrophoric gases.
2703.2.9.2 Testing frequency. The equipment, systems
and devices listed in Section 2703.2.9. 1 shall be tested at
one of the frequencies listed below:
1. Not less than annually;
2. In accordance with the approved manufacturers'
requirements;
3. In accordance with approved recognized industry
standards; or
4. In accordance with an approved schedule.
2703.3 Release of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials
in any quantity shall not be released into a sewer, storm drain,
ditch, drainage canal, creek, stream, river, lake or tidal water-
way or on the ground, sidewalk, street, highway or into the
atmosphere.
Exceptions:
1. The release or emission of hazardous materials is
allowed when in compliance with federal, state, or
local governmental agencies, regulations or permits.
2. The release of pesticides is allowed when used in
accordance with registered label directions.
248
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
3. The release of fertilizer and soil amendments is
allowed when used in accordance with manufac-
turer's specifications.
2703.3.1 Unauthorized discharges. When hazardous
materials are released in quantities reportable under state,
federal or local regulations, the fire code official shall be
notified and the following procedures required in accor-
dance with Sections 2703.3.1.1 through 2703.3.1.4.
2703.3.1.1 Records. Accurate records shall be kept of
the unauthorized discharge of hazardous materials by the
permittee.
2703.3.1.2 Preparation. Provisions shall be made for
controlling and mitigating unauthorized discharges.
2703.3.1.3 Control. When an unauthorized discharge
caused by primary container failure is discovered, the
involved primary container shall be repaired or removed
from service.
2703.3.1.4 Responsibility for cleanup. The person,
firm or corporation responsible for an unauthorized dis-
charge shall institute and complete all actions necessary
to remedy the effects of such unauthorized discharge,
whether sudden or gradual, at no cost to the jurisdiction.
When deemed necessary by the fire code official,
cleanup may be initiated by the fire department or by an
authorized individual or firm. Costs associated with such
cleanup shall be borne by the owner, operator or other
person responsible for the unauthorized discharge.
2703.4 Material Safety Data Sheets. Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) shall be readily available on the premises for
hazardous materials regulated by this chapter. When a hazard-
ous substance is developed in a laboratory, available informa-
tion shall be documented.
Exception: Designated hazardous waste.
2703.5 Hazard identiHcation signs. Unless otherwise
exempted by the fire code official, visible hazard identification
signs as specified in NFPA 704 for the specific material con-
tained shall be placed on stationary containers and
above-ground tanks and at entrances to locations where haz-
ardous materials are stored, dispensed, used or handled in
quantities requiring a permit and at specific entrances and loca-
tions designated by the fire code official.
2703.5.1 Markings. Individual containers, cartons or pack-
ages shall be conspicuously marked or labeled in an
approved manner. Rooms or cabinets containing com-
pressed gases shall be conspicuously labeled: COM-
PRESSED GAS.
2703.6 Signs. Signs and markings required by Sections 2703.5
and 2703 .5.1 shall not be obscured or removed, shall be in Eng-
lish as a primary language or in symbols allowed by this code,
shall be durable, and the size, color and lettering shall be
approved.
2703.7 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall comply
with Sections 2703.7.1 through 2703.7.3.
2703.7.1 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited and "No
Smoking" signs provided as follows:
1. In rooms or areas where hazardous materials are
stored or dispensed or used in open systems in
amounts requiring a permit in accordance with Sec-
tion 2701.5.
2. Within 25 feet (7620 mm) of outdoor storage, dis-
pensing or open use areas.
3. Facilities or areas within facilities that have been des-
ignated as totally "no smoking" shall have "No
Smoking" signs placed at all entrances to the facility
or area. Designated areas within such facilities where
smoking is permitted either permanently or tempo-
rarily, shall be identified with signs designating that
smoking is permitted in these areas only.
4. In rooms or areas where flammable or combustible
hazardous materials are stored, dispensed or used.
Signs required by this section shall be in English as a
primary language or in symbols allowed by this code and
shall comply with Section 310.
2703.7.2 Open flames. Open flames and high-temperature
devices shall not be used in a manner which creates a haz-
ardous condition and shall be listed for use with the hazard-
ous materials stored or used.
2703.7.3 Industrial trucks. Powered industrial trucks used
in areas designated as hazardous (classified) locations in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code shall be listed and
labeled for use in the environment intended in accordance
with NFPA 505.
2703.8 Construction requirements. Buildings, control areas,
enclosures and cabinets for hazardous materials shall be in
accordance with Sections 2703.8.1 through 2703.8.6.2.
2703.8.1 Buildings. Buildings, or portions thereof, in
which hazardous materials are stored, handled or used shall
be constructed in accordance with the International Build-
ing Code.
2703.8.2 Required detached buildings. Group H occupan-
cies containing quantities of hazardous materials in excess
of those set forth in Table 2703.8.2 shall be in detached
buildings.
2703.8.3 Control areas. Control areas shall comply with
Sections 2703.8.3.1 through 2703.8.3.5.
2703.8.3.1 Construction requirements. Control areas
shall be separated from each other by fire barriers con-
structed in accordance with Section 706 of the Interna-
tional Building Code or horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 71 1 of the Inter-
national Building Code, or both.
2703.8.3.2 Percentage of maximum allowable quanti-
ties. The percentage of maximum allowable quantities of
hazardous materials per control area allowed at each
floor level within a building shall be in accordance with
Table 2703.8.3.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
249
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
TABLE 2703.8.2
REQUIRED DETACHED STORAGE
DETACHED STORAGE IS REQUIRED WHEN THE QUANTITY OF MATERIAL EXCEEDS THAT LISTED HEREIN
Material
Class
Solids and liquids
(tons)^' "
Gases
(cubic feetf''
Explosives
Division 1.1
Division 1.2
Division 1.3
Division 1.4
Division 1.4^^
Division 1.5
Division 1.6
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
1
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Not Applicable
Oxidizers
Class 4
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Unstable (reactives) detonable
Class 3 or 4
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Oxidizer, liquids and solids
Class 3
Class 2
1,200
2,000
Not Applicable
Organic peroxides
Detonable
Class I
Class II
Class III
Maximum Allowable Quantity
Maximum Allowable Quantity
25
50
Not Applicable
Unstable (reactives) nondetonable
Class 3
Class 2
1
25
2,000
10,000
Water reactives
Class 3
Class 2
1
25
Not Applicable
Pyrophoric gases
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
2,000
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ 1 ton = 2000 lbs. = 907.2 kg.
a. For materials which are detonable, the distance to other buildings or lot lines shall be as specified in the International Building Code. For materials classified as
explosives, the required separation distances shall be as specified in Chapter 33.
b. "Maximum Allowable Quantity" means the maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
c. Limited to Division 1 .4 materials and articles, including articles packaged for shipment, that are not regulated as an explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco
and Firearms regulations, or unpackaged articles used in process operations that do not propagate a detonation or deflagration between articles, providing the net
explosive weight of individual articles does not exceed 1 pound.
TABLE 2703.8.3.2
DESIGN AND NUMBER OF CONTROL AREAS
FLOOR LEVEL
PERCENTAGE OF THE MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER
CONTROL AREA^
NUMBER OF CONTROL
AREAS PER FLOOR
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING FOR
FIRE BARRIERS IN HOURS"
Above grade
plane
Higher than 9
7-9
6
5
4
3
2
1
5
5
12.5
12.5
12.5
50
75
100
1
2
2
2
2
2
3
4
2
2
2
2
2
1
1
1
Below grade
plane
1
2
Lower than 2
75
50
Not Allowed
3
2
Not Allowed
1
1
Not Allowed
a. Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 2703 .1.1(1) and 2703 . 1 . 1 (2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes
to those tables.
b. Fire barriers shall include walls and floors as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.
250
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
^
2703.8.3.3 Number. The maximum number of control
areas per floor within a building shall be in accordance
with Table 2703.8.3.2.
2703.8.3.4 Fire-resistance rating requirements. The
required fire-resistance rating for fire barriers shall be in
accordance with Table 2703.8.3.2. The floor construc-
tion of the control area and the construction supporting
the floor of the control area shall have a minimum 2-hour
fire-resistance rating.
Exception: The floor construction of the control area
and the construction supporting the floor of the con-
trol area is allowed to be 1-hour fire-resistance rated
in buildings of Type IIA, IIIA and VA construction,
provided that both of the following conditions exist:
1. The building is equipped throughout with an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1; and
2. The building is three stories or less in height.
2703.8.3.5 Hazardous material in Group M display
and storage areas and in Group S storage areas. The
aggregate quantity of nonflanomable solid and nonflam-
mable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials
allowed within a single control area of a Group M display
and storage area or a Group S storage area is allowed to
exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control
area specified in Tables 2703.1.1(1) and 2703.1.1(2)
without classifying the building or use as a Group H
occupancy, provided that the materials are displayed and
stored in accordance with Section 2703.1 1.
2703.8.4 Gas rooms. Where a gas room is provided to com-
ply with the provisions of Chapter 37, the gas room shall be
in accordance with Sections 2703.8.4.1 and 2703.8.4.2.
2703.8.4.1 Construction. Gas rooms shall be protected
with an automatic sprinkler system. Gas rooms shall be
separated from the remainder of the building in accor-
dance with the requirements of the International Build-
ing Code based on the occupancy group into which it has
been classified.
2703.8.4.2 Ventilation system. The ventilation system
for gas rooms shall be designed to operate at a negative
pressure in relation to the surrounding area. Highly toxic
and toxic gases shall also comply with Section
3704.2.2.6. The ventilation system shall be installed in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
2703.8.5 Exhausted enclosures. Where an exhausted
enclosure is used to increase maximum allowable quantity
per control area or when the location of hazardous materials
in exhausted enclosures is provided to comply with the pro-
visions of Chapter 37, the exhausted enclosure shall be in
accordance with Sections 2703.8.5.1 through 2703.8.5.3.
2703.8.5.1 Construction. Exhausted enclosures shall be
of noncombustible construction.
2703.8.5.2 Ventilation. The ventilation system for
exhausted enclosures shall be designed to operate at a
negative pressure in relation to the surrounding area.
Ventilation systems used for highly toxic and toxic gases
shall also comply with Items 1, 2 and 3 of Section
3704.1.2. The ventilation system shall be installed in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
2703.8.5.3 Fire-extinguishing system. Exhausted
enclosures where flammable materials are used shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing
system in accordance with Chapter 9.
2703.8.6 Gas cabinets. Where a gas cabinet is used to
increase the maximum allowable quantity per control area
or when the location of compressed gases in gas cabinets is
provided to comply with the provisions of Chapter 37, the
gas cabinet shall be in accordance with Sections 2703.8.6.1
through 2703.8.6.3.
2703.8.6.1 Construction. Gas cabinets shall be con-
structed in accordance with the following:
1. Constructed of not less than 0.097-inch (2.5 mm)
(No. 12 gage) steel.
2. Be provided with self-closing limited access ports
or noncombustible windows to give access to
equipment controls.
3. Be provided with self-closing doors.
4. Gas cabinet interiors shall be treated, coated or
constructed of materials that are compatible with
the hazardous materials stored. Such treatment,
coating or construction shall include the entire
interior of the cabinet.
2703.8.6.2 Ventilation. The ventilation system for gas
cabinets shall be designed to operate at a negative pres-
sure in relation to the surrounding area. Ventilation sys-
tems used for highly toxic and toxic gases shall also
comply with Items 1, 2 and 3 of Section 3704.1.2. The
ventilation system shall be installed in accordance with
the International Mechanical Code.
2703.8.6.3 Maximum number of cylinders per gas
cabinet. The number of cylinders contained in a single
gas cabinet shall not exceed three.
2703.8.7 Hazardous materials storage cabinets. Where
storage cabinets are used to increase maximum allowable
quantity per control area or to comply with this chapter,
such cabinets shall be in accordance with Sections
2703.8.7.1 and 2703.8.7.2.
2703.8.7.1 Construction. The interior of cabinets shall
be treated, coated or constructed of materials that are
nonreactive with the hazardous material stored. Such
treatment, coating or construction shall include the entire
interior of the cabinet. Cabinets shall either be listed in
accordance with UL 1275 as suitable for the intended
storage or constructed in accordance with the following:
1 . Cabinets shall be of steel having a thickness of not
less than 0.0478 inch (1 .2 mm) (No. 18 gage). The
cabinet, including the door, shall be double walled
with a 1.5-inch (38 mm) airspace between the
walls. Joints shall be riveted or welded and shall be
tight fitting. Doors shall be well fitted, self-closing
and equipped with a self-latching device.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
251
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2. The bottoms of cabinets utilized for the storage of
hquids shall be liquid tight to a minimum height of
2 inches (51 mm).
Electrical equipment and devices within cabinets used
for the storage of hazardous gases or liquids shall be in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
2703.8.7.2 Warning markings. Cabinets shall be
clearly identified in an approved manner with red letters
on a contrasting background to read:
HAZARDOUS — KEEP FIRE AWAY.
2703.9 General safety precautions. General precautions for
the safe storage, handling or care of hazardous materials shall
be in accordance with Sections 2703.9.1 through 2703.9.9.
2703.9.1 Personnel training and written procedures.
Persons responsible for the operation of areas in which haz-
ardous materials are stored, dispensed, handled or used
shall be familiar with the chemical nature of the materials
and the appropriate mitigating actions necessary in the event
of fire, leak or spill.
2703.9.1.1 Fire department liaison. Responsible per-
sons shall be designated and trained to be liaison person-
nel to the fire department. These persons shall aid the fire
department in preplanning emergency responses and
identifying the locations where hazardous materials are
located, and shall have access to Material Safety Data
Sheets and be knowledgeable in the site's emergency
response procedures.
2703.9.2 Security. Storage, dispensing, use and handling
areas shall be secured against unauthorized entry and safe-
guarded in a manner approved by the fire code official.
2703.9.3 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other
approved means shall be provided to protect storage tanks
and connected piping, valves and fittings; dispensing areas;
and use areas subject to vehicular damage in accordance
with Section 312.
2703.9.4 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wir-
ing and equipment shall be installed and maintained in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
2703.9.5 Static accumulation. When processes or condi-
tions exist where a flammable mixture could be ignited by
static electricity, means shall be provided to prevent the
accumulation of a static charge.
2703.9.6 Protection from light. Materials that are sensitive
to light shall be stored in containers designed to protect
them from such exposure.
2703.9.7 Shock padding. Materials that are shock sensitive
shall be padded, suspended or otherwise protected against
accidental dislodgement and dislodgement during seismic
activity.
2703.9.8 Separation of incompatible materials. Incom-
patible materials in storage and storage of materials that are
incompatible with materials in use shall be separated when
the stored materials are in containers having a capacity of
more than 5 pounds (2 kg) or 0.5 gallon (2 L). Separation
shall be accomplished by:
1. Segregating incompatible materials in storage by a
distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
2. Isolating incompatible materials in storage by a
noncombustible partition extending not less than 18
inches (457 mm) above and to the sides of the stored
material.
3. Storing liquid and solid materials in hazardous mate-
rial storage cabinets.
4. Storing compressed gases in gas cabinets or
exhausted enclosures in accordance with Sections
2703.8.5 and 2703.8.6. Materials that are incompati-
ble shall not be stored within the same cabinet or
exhausted enclosure.
2703.9.9 Shelf storage. Shelving shall be of substantial
construction, and shall be braced and anchored in accor-
dance with the seismic design requirements of the Interna-
tional Building Code for the seismic zone in which the
material is located. Shelving shall be treated, coated or con-
structed of materials that are compatible with the hazardous
materials stored. Shelves shall be provided with a lip or
guard when used for the storage of individual containers.
Exceptions:
1. Storage in hazardous material storage cabinets or
laboratory furniture specifically designed for such
use.
2. Storage of hazardous materials in amounts not
requiring a permit in accordance with Section
2701.5.
Shelf storage of hazardous materials shall be maintained
in an orderly manner.
2703.10 Handling and transportation. In addition to the
requirements of Section 2703.2, the handling and transporta-
tion of hazardous materials in corridors or exit enclosures shall
be in accordance with Sections 2703.10.1 through
2703.10.3.6.
2703.10.1 Valve protection. Hazardous material gas con-
tainers, cylinders and tanks in transit shall have their protec-
tive caps in place. Containers, cylinders and tanks of highly
toxic or toxic compressed gases shall have their valve out-
lets capped or plugged with an approved closure device in
accordance with Chapter 30.
2703.10.2 Carts and trucks required. Liquids in contain-
ers exceeding 5 gallons (19 L) in a corridor or exit enclosure
shall be transported on a cart or truck. Containers of hazard-
ous materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accor-
dance with NFPA 704 and transported within corridors or
exit enclosures, shall be on a cart or truck. Where carts and
trucks are required for transporting hazardous materials,
they shall be in accordance with Section 2703.10.3.
Exceptions:
1 . Two hazardous material liquid containers, which
are hand carried in acceptable safety carriers.
252
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2. Not more than four drums not exceeding 55 gal-
lons (208 L) each, which are transported by suit-
able drum trucks.
3. Containers and cyhnders of compressed gases,
which are transported by approved hand trucks,
and containers and cylinders not exceeding 25
pounds (11 kg), which are hand carried.
4. Solid hazardous materials not exceeding 100
pounds (45 kg), which are transported by
approved hand trucks, and a single container not
exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg), which is hand car-
ried.
2703.10.3 Carts and trucks. Carts and trucks required by
Section 2703. 10.2 to be used to transport hazardous materi-
als shall be in accordance with Sections 2703.10.3.1
through 2703.10.3.6.
2703.10.3.1 Design. Carts and trucks used to transport
hazardous materials shall be designed to provide a stable
base for the commodities to be transported and shall have
a means of restraining containers to prevent accidental
dislodgement. Compressed gas cylinders placed on carts
and trucks shall be individually restrained.
2703.10.3.2 Speed-control devices. Carts and trucks
shall be provided with a device that will enable the opera-
tor to control safely movement by providing stops or
speed-reduction devices.
2703.10.3.3 Construction. Construction materials for
hazardous material carts or trucks shall be compatible
with the material transported. The cart or truck shall be of
substantial construction.
2703.10.3.4 Spill control. Carts and trucks transporting
liquids shall be capable of containing a spill from the
largest single container transported.
2703.10.3.5 Attendance. Carts and trucks used to trans-
port materials shall not obstruct or be left unattended
within any part of a means of egress.
2703.10.3.6 Incompatible materials. Incompatible
materials shall not be transported on the same cart or
truck.
2703.11 Group M storage and display and Group S storage.
The aggregate quantity of nonflammable solid and nonflam-
mable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials stored
and displayed within a single control area of a Group M occu-
pancy, or an outdoor control area, or stored in a single control
area of a Group S occupancy, is allowed to exceed the maxi-
mum allowable quantity per control area indicated in Section
2703.1 when in accordance with Sections 2703.11.1 through
2703.11.3.10.
2703.11.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control
area in Group M or S occupancies. The aggregate amount
of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or
noncombustible liquid hazardous materials stored and dis-
played within a single control area of a Group M occupancy
or stored in a single control area of a Group S occupancy
shall not exceed the amounts set forth in Table 2703.1 1.1.
2703.11.2 Maximum allowable quantity per outdoor
control area in Group M or S occupancies. The aggregate
amount of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or
noncombustible liquid hazardous materials stored and dis-
played within a single outdoor control area of a Group M
occupancy shall not exceed the amounts set forth in Table
2703.11.1.
2703.11.3 Storage and display. Storage and display shall
be in accordance with Sections 2703.11.3.1 through
2703.11.3.10.
2703.11.3.1 Density. Storage and display of solids shall
not exceed 200 pounds per square foot (976 kg/m^) of
floor area actually occupied by solid merchandise. Stor-
age and display of liquids shall not exceed 20 gallons per
square foot (0.50 L/m^) of floor area actually occupied
by liquid merchandise.
2703.11.3.2 Storage and display height. Display height
shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) above the finished
floor in display areas of Group M occupancies. Storage
height shall not exceed 8 feet (2438 mm) above the fin-
ished floor in storage areas of Group M and Group S
occupancies.
2703.11.3.3 Container location. Individual containers
less than 5 gallons (19 L) or less than 25 pounds (11 kg)
shall be stored or displayed on pallets, racks or shelves.
2703.11.3.4 Racks and shelves. Racks and shelves used
for storage or display shall be in accordance with Section
2703.9.9.
2703.11.3.5 Container type. Containers shall be
approved for the intended use and identified as to their
content.
2703.11.3.6 Container size. Individual containers shall
not exceed 100 pounds (45 kg) for solids or 10 gallons
(38 L) for liquids in storage and display areas.
2703.11.3.7 Incompatible materials. Incompatible
materials shall be separated in accordance with Section
2703.9.8.
2703.11.3.8 Floors. Floors shall be in accordance with
Section 2704.12.
2703.11.3.9 Aisles. Aisles 4 feet (1219 mm) in width
shall be maintained on three sides of the storage or dis-
play area.
2703.11.3.10 Signs. Hazard identification signs shall be
provided in accordance with Section 2703.5.
2703.12 Outdoor control areas. Outdoor control areas for
hazardous materials in amounts not exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per outdoor control area shall be in accor-
dance with the following:
1. Outdoor control area shall be kept free from weeds,
debris and common combustible materials not necessary
to the storage. The area surrounding an outdoor control
area shall be kept clear of such materials for a minimum
of 15 feet (4572 mm).
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2. Outdoor control areas shall be located not closer than 20
feet (6096 mm) from a lot line that can be built upon,
public street, public alley or public way. A 2-hour
fire-resistance-rated wall without openings extending
not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above and to the sides
of the storage area is allowed in lieu of such distance.
3. Where a property exceeds 10,000 square feet (929 m^), a
group of two outdoor control areas is allowed when
approved and when each control area is separated by a
minimum distance of 50 feet (15 240 mm).
4. Where a property exceeds 35,000 square feet (3252 m^),
additional groups of outdoor control areas are allowed
when approved and when each group is separated by a
minimum distance of 300 feet (91 440 mm).
SECTION 2704
STORAGE
2704.1 Scope. Storage of hazardous materials in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area as
set forth in Section 2703. 1 shall be in accordance with Sections
2701, 2703 and 2704. Storage of hazardous materials in
amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area as set forth in Section 2703.1 shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701 and 2703. Retail and wholesale stor-
age and display of nonflammable solid and nonflammable and
noncombustible liquid hazardous materials in Group M occu-
pancies and Group S storage shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion 2703.11.
2704.2 Spill control and secondary containment for liq-
uid and solid hazardous materials. Rooms, buildings or
TABLE 2703.11.1
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER INDOOR AND OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA IN GROUP M AND
S OCCUPANCIES NONFLAMMABLE SOLIDS, NONFLAMMABLE AND NONCOMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS " ^ '
CONDITION
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA
Material^
Class
Solids
pounds
Liquids gallons
A. HEALTH-HAZARD MATERIALS— NONFLAMMABLE AND NONCOMBUSTIBLE SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS
1. Corrosives''''
Not Applicable
9,750
975
2. Highly Toxics
Not Applicable
20'''''
2b, c
3. Toxics''' ''
Not Applicable
1,000
100
B. PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS —NONFLAMMABLE AND NONCOMBUSTIBLE SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS
1. Oxidizers''' '^
4
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
3
1,1508
115
2
2,250''
225
1
18,000'' J
1,800'' J
2. Unstable (Reactives)''' '^
4
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
3
550
55
2
1,150
115
1
Not Limited
Not Limited
3. Water (Reactives)
oh, c
550
55
2b, c
1,150
115
1
Not Limited
Not Limited
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
a. Hazard categories are as specified in Section 2701.2.2.
b. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1. When Note c also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
c. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent when stored in approved storage cabinets in accordance with Section 2703.8. When Note b also
applies, the increase for both notes shall be apphed accumulatively.
d. See Table 2703.8.3.2 for design and number of control areas.
e. Maximum allowable quantities for other hazardous material categories shall be in accordance with Section 2703. 1 .
f. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in outdoor control areas.
g. Maximum allowable quantities are permitted to be increased to 2,250 pounds when individual packages are in the original sealed containers from the manufacturer
or packager and do not exceed 10 pounds each.
h. Maximum allowable quantities are permitted to be increased to 4,500 pounds when individual packages are in the original sealed containers from the manufacturer
or packager and do not exceed 10 pounds each.
i. Quantities are unUmited where protected by an automatic sprinkler system,
j. Quantities are unlimited in an outdoor control area.
254
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
areas used for the storage of liquid or solid hazardous mate-
rials shall be provided with spill control and secondary con-
tainment in accordance with Sections 2704.2.1 through
2704.2.3.
Exception: Outdoor storage of containers on approved con-
tainment pallets in accordance with Section 2704.2.3.
2704.2.1 Spill control for hazardous material liquids.
Rooms, buildings or areas used for the storage of hazardous
material liquids in individual vessels having a capacity of
more than 55 gallons (208 L), or in which the aggregate
capacity of multiple vessels exceeds 1 ,000 gallons (3785 L),
shall be provided with spill control to prevent the flow of liq-
uids to adjoining areas. Floors in indoor locations and simi-
lar surfaces in outdoor locations shall be constructed to
contain a spill from the largest single vessel by one of the
following methods:
1. Liquid-tight sloped or recessed floors in indoor loca-
tions or similar areas in outdoor locations.
2. Liquid-tight floors in indoor locations or similar areas
in outdoor locations provided with liquid-tight raised
or recessed sills or dikes.
3. Sumps and collection systems.
4. Other approved engineered systems.
Except for surfacing, the floors, sills, dikes, sumps and col-
lection systems shall be constructed of noncombustible mate-
rial, and the liquid-tight seal shall be compatible with the
material stored. When liquid-tight sills or dikes are provided,
they are not required at perimeter openings having an
open-grate trench across the opening that connects to an
approved collection system.
2704.2.2 Secondary containment for hazardous mate-
rial liquids and solids. Where required by Table 2704.2.2
buildings, rooms or areas used for the storage of hazardous
materials liquids or solids shall be provided with secondary
containment in accordance with this section when the
capacity of an individual vessel or the aggregate capacity of
multiple vessels exceeds the following:
1. Liquids: Capacity of an individual vessel exceeds 55
gallons (208 L) or the aggregate capacity of multiple
vessels exceeds 1,000 gallons (3785 L); and
2. Solids: Capacity of an individual vessel exceeds 550
pounds (250 kg) or the aggregate capacity of multiple
vessels exceeds 10,000 pounds (4540 kg).
2704.2.2.1 Containment and drainage methods. The
building, room or area shall contain or drain the hazard-
ous materials and fire protection water through the use of
one of the following methods:
1. Liquid-tight sloped or recessed floors in indoor
locations or similar areas in outdoor locations.
2. Liquid-tight floors in indoor locations or similar
areas in outdoor locations provided with liq-
uid-tight raised or recessed sills or dikes.
3. Sumps and collection systems.
4. Drainage systems leading to an approved location.
5. Other approved engineered systems.
2704.2.2.2 Incompatible materials. Incompatible
materials used in open systems shall be separated from
each other in the secondary containment system.
2704.2.2.3 Indoor design. Secondary containment for
indoor storage areas shall be designed to contain a spill
from the largest vessel plus the design flow volume of
fire protection water calculated to discharge from the
fire-extinguishing system over the minimum required
system design area or area of the room or area in which
the storage is located, whichever is smaller. The contain-
ment capacity shall be designed to contain the flow for a
period of 20 minutes.
2704.2.2.4 Outdoor design. Secondary containment for
outdoor storage areas shall be designed to contain a spill
from the largest individual vessel. If the area is open to
rainfall, secondary containment shall be designed to
include the volume of a 24-hour rainfall as determined by
a 25 -year storm and provisions shall be made to drain
accumulations of ground water and rainwater.
2704.2.2.5 Monitoring. An approved monitoring
method shall be provided to detect hazardous materials
in the secondary containment system. The monitoring
method is allowed to be visual inspection of the primary
or secondary containment, or other approved means.
Where secondary containment is subject to the intrusion
of water, a monitoring method for detecting water shall
be provided. Where monitoring devices are provided,
they shall be connected to approved visual or audible
alarms.
2704.2.2.6 Drainage system design. Drainage systems
shall be in accordance with the International Plumbing
Code and all of the following:
1 . The slope of floors to drains in indoor locations, or
similar areas in outdoor locations shall not be less
than 1 percent.
2. Drains from indoor storage areas shall be sized to
carry the volume of the fire protection water as
determined by the design density discharged from
the automatic fire-extinguishing system over the
minimum required system design area or area of
the room or area in which the storage is located,
whichever is smaller.
3. Drains from outdoor storage areas shall be sized to
carry the volume of the fire flow and the volume of
a 24-hour rainfall as determined by a 25 -year
storm.
4. Materials of construction for drainage systems
shall be compatible with the materials stored.
5. Incompatible materials used in open systems shall
be separated from each other in the drainage sys-
tem.
6. Drains shall terminate in an approved location
away from buildings, valves, means of egress, fire
access roadways, adjoining property and storm
drains.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
255
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
TABLE 2704.2.2
REQUIRED SECONDARY CONTAINMENT— HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS STORAGE
INDOOR STORAGE
OUTDOOR STORAGE
MATERIAL
Solids Liquids
Solids
Liquids
1 . Physical-hazard materials
Combustible liquids
Class II
Not
Applicable
See Chapter 34
Not
Applicable
See Chapter 34
Class IIIA
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IIIB
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Cryogenic fluids
See Chapter 32
See Chapter 32
Explosives
See Chapter 33
See Chapter 32
Flammable liquids
Class lA
Not
Applicable
See Chapter 34
Not
Applicable
See Chapter 34
Class IB
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IC
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Flammable solids
Not Required
Not Applicable
Not Required
Not Applicable
Organic peroxides
Unclassified
Detonable
Required
Required
Not Required
Not Required
Class I
Class II
Class III
Class IV
Class V
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Oxidizers
Class 4
Required
Required
Not Required
Not Required
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Pyrophorics
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Required
Unstable (reactives)
Class 4
Required
Required
Required
Required
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Not Required
Water reactives
Class 3
Required
Required
Required
Required
Class 2
Class 1
Not Required
Not Required
. Not Required
Not Required
2. Health-hazard materials
Corrosives
Not Required
Required
Not Required
Required
Highly toxics
Required
Required
Required
Required
Toxics
256
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2704.2.3 Containment pallets. When used as an alterna-
tive to spill control and secondary containment for outdoor
storage in accordance with the exception in Section 2704.2,
containment pallets shall comply with all of the following:
1. A liquid-tight sump accessible for visual inspection
shall be provided.
2. The sump shall be designed to contain not less than 66
gallons (250 L).
3. Exposed surfaces shall be compatible with material
stored.
4. Containment pallets shall be protected to prevent col-
lection of rainwater within the sump.
2704.3 Ventilation. Indoor storage areas and storage buildings
shall be provided with mechanical exhaust ventilation or natu-
ral ventilation where natural ventilation can be shown to be
acceptable for the materials as stored.
Exception: Storage areas for flammable solids complying
with Chapter 36.
2704.3.1 System requirements. Exhaust ventilation sys-
tems shall comply with all of the following:
1 . Installation shall be in accordance with the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
2. Mechanical ventilation shall be at a rate of not less
than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot
[0.00508 m^/(s • m^)] of floor area over the storage
area.
3. Systems shall operate continuously unless alternative
designs are approved.
4. A manual shutoff control shall be provided outside of
the room in a position adjacent to the access door to
the room or in an approved location. The switch shall
be a break-glass or other approved type and shall be
labeled: VENTILATION SYSTEM EMERGENCY
SHUTOFF.
5. Exhaust ventilation shall be designed to consider the
density of the potential fumes or vapors released. For
fumes or vapors that are heavier than air, exhaust shall
be taken from a point within 12 inches (305 mm) of
the floor. For fumes or vapors that are lighter than air,
exhaust shall be taken from a point within 12 inches
(305 mm) of the highest point of the room.
6. The location of both the exhaust and inlet air openings
shall be designed to provide air movement across all
portions of the floor or room to prevent the accumula-
tion of vapors.
7. Exhaust air shall not be recirculated to occupied areas
if the materials stored are capable of emitting hazard-
ous vapors and contaminants have not been removed.
Air-contaminated with explosive or flammable
vapors, fumes or dusts; flammable, highly toxic or
toxic gases; or radioactive materials shall not be
recirculated.
2704.4 Separation of incompatible hazardous materials.
Incompatible materials shall be separated in accordance with
Section 2703.9.8.
2704.5 Automatic sprinkler systems. Indoor storage areas
and storage buildings shall be equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Sec-
tion 903.3.1.1. The design of the sprinkler system shall not be
less than that required for Ordinary Hazard Group 2 with a min-
imum design area of 3,000 square feet (279 m^). Where the
materials or storage arrangement are required by other regula-
tions to be provided with a higher level of sprinkler system pro-
tection, the higher level of sprinkler system protection shall be
provided.
2704.6 Explosion control. Indoor storage rooms, areas and
buildings shall be provided with explosion control in accor-
dance with Section 911.
2704.7 Standby or emergency power. Where mechanical
ventilation, treatment systems, temperature control, alarm,
detection or other electrically operated systems are required,
such systems shall be provided with an emergency or standby
power system in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code and
Section 604.
Exceptions:
1. Storage areas for Class 1 and 2 oxidizers.
2. Storage areas for Class EI, IV and V organic perox-
ides.
3. For storage areas for highly toxic or toxic materials,
see Sections 3704.2.2.8 and 3704.3.2.6.
4. Standby power for mechanical ventilation, treatment
systems and temperature control systems shall not be
required where an approved fail-safe engineered sys-
tem is installed.
2704.8 Limit controls. Limit controls shall be provided in
accordance with Sections 2704.8.1 and 2704.8.2.
2704.8.1 Temperature control. Materials that must be kept
at temperatures other than normal ambient temperatures to
prevent a hazardous reaction shall be provided with an
approved means to maintain the temperature within a safe
range. Redundant temperature control equipment that will
operate on failure of the primary temperature control system
shall be provided. Where approved, alternative means that
prevent a hazardous reaction are allowed.
2704.8.2 Pressure control. Stationary tanks and equipment
containing hazardous material liquids that can generate
pressures exceeding design limits because of exposure fires
or internal reaction, shall have some form of construction or
other approved means that will relieve excessive internal
pressure. The means of pressure relief shall vent to an
approved location or to an exhaust scrubber or treatment
system where required by Chapter 37.
2704.9 Emergency alarm. An approved manual emergency
alarm system shall be provided in buildings, rooms or areas
used for storage of hazardous materials. Emergency alarm-ini-
tiating devices shall be installed outside of each interior exit or
exit access door of storage buildings, rooms or areas. Activa-
tion of an emergency alarm-initiating device shall sound a local
alarm to alert occupants of an emergency situation involving
hazardous materials.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
257
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2704.10 Supervision. Emergency alarm, detection and auto-
matic fire-extinguishing systems required by Section 2704
shall be supervised by an approved central, proprietary or
remote station service or shall initiate an audible and visual sig-
nal at a constantly attended on-site location.
2704.11 Clearance from combustibles. The area surrounding
an outdoor storage area or tank shall be kept clear of combusti-
ble materials and vegetation for a minimum distance of 25 feet
(7620 mm).
2704.12 Noncombustible floor. Except for surfacing, floors of
storage areas shall be of noncombustible construction.
2704.13 Weather protection. Where overhead
noncombustible construction is provided for sheltering out-
door hazardous material storage areas, such storage shall not be
considered indoor storage when the area is constructed in
accordance with the requirements for weather protection as
required by the International Building Code.
Exception: Storage of explosive materials shall be consid-
ered as indoor storage.
SECTION 2705
USE, DISPENSING AND HANDLING
2705.1 General. Use, dispensing and handling of hazardous
materials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area set forth in Section 2703.1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703 and 2705. Use, dispens-
ing and handling of hazardous materials in amounts not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area set
forth in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance with Sections
2701 and 2703.
2705.1.1 Separation of incompatible materials. Separa-
tion of incompatible materials shall be in accordance with
Section 2703.9.8.
2705.1.2 Noncombustible floor. Except for surfacing,
floors of areas where liquid or solid hazardous materials are
dispensed or used in open systems shall be of
noncombustible, liquid-tight construction.
2705.1.3 Spill control and secondary containment for
hazardous material liquids. Where required by other pro-
visions of Section 2705, spill control and secondary con-
tainment shall be provided for hazardous material liquids in
accordance with Section 2704.2.
2705.1.4 Limit controls. Limit controls shall be provided in
accordance with Sections 2705.1.4.1 through 2705.1.4.4.
2705.1.4.1 High-liquid-level control. Open tanks in
which liquid hazardous materials are used shall be
equipped with a liquid-level limit control or other means
to prevent overfilling of the tank.
2705.1.4.2 Low-liquid-level control. Approved safe-
guards shall be provided to prevent a low-liquid level in a
tank from creating a hazardous condition, including but
not limited to, overheating of a tank or its contents.
2705.1.4.3 Temperature control. Temperature control
shall be provided in accordance with Section 2704.8.1.
2705.1.4.4 Pressure control. Pressure control shall be
provided in accordance with Section 2704.8.2.
2705.1.5 Standby or emergency power. Where mechani-
cal ventilation, treatment systems, temperature control,
manual alarm, detection or other electrically operated sys-
tems are required, such systems shall be provided with an
emergency or standby power system in accordance with the
ICC Electrical Code and Section 604.
Exceptions:
1. Standby power for mechanical ventilation, treat-
ment systems and temperature control systems
shall not be required where an approved fail-safe
engineered system is installed.
2. Systems for highly toxic or toxic gases shall be
provided with emergency power in accordance
with Sections 3704.2.2.8 and 3704.3.2.6.
2705.1.6 Supervision. Manual alarm, detection and auto-
matic fire-extinguishing systems required by other provi-
sions of Section 2705 shall be supervised by an approved
central, proprietary or remote station service or shall initiate
an audible and visual signal at a constantly attended on-site
location.
2705.1.7 Lighting. Adequate lighting by natural or artifi-
cial means shall be provided.
2705.1.8 Fire-extinguishing systems. Indoor rooms or
areas in which hazardous materials are dispensed or used
shall be protected by an automatic fire-extinguishing sys-
tem in accordance with Chapter 9. Sprinkler system design
shall not be less than that required for Ordinary Hazard,
Group 2, with a minimum design area of 3,000 square feet
(279 m^). Where the materials or storage arrangement are
required by other regulations to be provided with a higher
level of sprinkler system protection, the higher level of
sprinkler system protection shall be provided.
2705.1.9 Ventilation. Indoor dispensing and use areas shall
be provided with exhaust ventilation in accordance with
Section 2704.3.
Exception: Ventilation is not required for dispensing
and use of flammable solids other than finely divided
particles.
2705.1.10 Liquid transfer. Liquids having a hazard rank-
ing of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 shall be trans-
ferred by one of the following methods:
1. From safety cans complying with UL 30.
2. 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 contain-
ment in accordance with Section 2704.2. Highly toxic
liquids shall not be dispensed by gravity from tanks.
258
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
5. Approved engineered liquid transfer systems.
Exceptions:
1 . Liquids having a hazard ranking of 4 when dis-
pensed from approved containers not exceeding
1.3 gallons (5 L).
2. Liquids having a hazard ranking of 3 when dis-
pensed from approved containers not exceeding
5.3 gallons (20 L).
2705.2 Indoor dispensing and use. Indoor dispensing and use
of hazardous materials shall be in buildings complying with the
International Building Code and in accordance with Section
2705.1 and Sections 2705.2.1 through 2705.2.2.5.
2705.2.1 Open systems. Dispensing and use of hazardous
materials in open containers or systems shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2705.2.1.1 through 2705.2.1.4.
2705.2.1.1 Ventilation. Where gases, liquids or solids
having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with
NFPA 704 are dispensed or used, mechanical exhaust
ventilation shall be provided to capture gases, fumes,
mists or vapors at the point of generation.
Exception: Gases, liquids or solids that can be dem-
onstrated not to create harmful gases, fumes, mists or
vapors.
2705.2.1.2 Explosion control. Explosion control shall
be provided in accordance with Section 2704.6 when an
explosive environment can occur because of the charac-
teristics or nature of the hazardous materials dispensed
or used, or as a result of the dispensing or use process.
2705.2.1.3 Spill control for hazardous material liq-
uids. Buildings, rooms or areas where hazardous mate-
rial liquids are dispensed into vessels exceeding a
1.3-gallon (5 L) capacity or used in open systems
exceeding a 5.3-gallon (20 L) capacity shall be provided
with spill control in accordance with Section 2704.2.1.
2705.2.1.4 Secondary containment for hazardous
material liquids. Where required by Table 2705.2.1.4,
buildings, rooms or areas where hazardous material liq-
uids are dispensed or used in open systems shall be pro-
vided with secondary containment in accordance with
Section 2704.2.2 when the capacity of an individual ves-
sel or system or the capacity of multiple vessels or sys-
tems exceeds the following:
1. Individual vessel or system: greater than 1.3 gal-
lons (5 L).
2. Multiple vessels or systems: greater than 5.3 gal-
lons (20 L).
2705.2.2 Closed systems. Use of hazardous materials in
closed containers or systems shall be in accordance with
Sections 2705.2.2.1 through 2705.2.2.5.
2705.2.2.1 Design. Systems shall be suitable for the use
intended and shall be designed by persons competent in
such design. Controls shall be designed to prevent mate-
rials from entering or leaving the process or reaction sys-
tems at other than the intended time, rate or path. Where
automatic controls are provided, they shall be designed
to be fail safe.
2705.2.2.2 Ventilation. Where closed systems are
designed to be opened as part of normal operations, ven-
tilation shall be provided in accordance with Section
2705.2.1.1.
2705.2.2.3 Explosion control. Explosion control shall
be provided in accordance with Section 2704.6 where an
explosive environment exists because of the hazardous
materials dispensed or used, or as a result of the dispens-
ing or use process.
Exception: Where process vessels are designed to
contain fully the worst-case explosion anticipated
within the vessel under process conditions based on
the most likely failure.
2705.2.2.4 Spill control for hazardous material liq-
uids. Buildings, rooms or areas where hazardous mate-
rial liquids are used in individual vessels exceeding a
55-gallon (208 L) capacity shall be provided with spill
control in accordance with Section 2704.2.1.
2705.2.2.5 Secondary containment for hazardous
material liquids. Where required by Table 2705.2.1.4,
buildings, rooms or areas where hazardous material liq-
uids are used in vessels or systems shall be provided with
secondary containment in accordance with Section
2704.2.2 when the capacity of an individual vessel or
system or the capacity of multiple vessels or systems
exceeds the following:
1 . Individual vessel or system: greater than 55 gal-
lons (208 L).
2. Multiple vessels or systems: greater than 1,000
gallons (3785 L).
2705.3 Outdoor dispensing and use. Dispensing and use of
hazardous materials outdoors shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 2705.3.1 through 2705.3.9.
2705.3.1 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. Outdoor dispensing or use of
hazardous materials, in either closed or open containers or
systems, in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Tables 2703.1.1(3)
and 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance with Sections 2701,
2703, 2705.1 and 2705.3.
2705.3.2 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. Outdoor dispensing or use
of hazardous materials, in either closed or open containers
or systems, in amounts not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area indicated in Tables
2703.1.1(3) and 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance with
Sections 2701 and 2703.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
259
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
TABLE 2705.2.1.4
REQUIRED SECONDARY CONTAINMENT— HAZARDOUS MATERIAL LIQUIDS USE
MATERIAL
INDOOR LIQUIDS USE
OUTDOOR LIQUIDS USE
1. Physical-hazard materials
Combustible liquids
Class II
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IIIA
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IIIB
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Cryogenic fluids
See Chapter 32
See Chapter 32
Explosives
See Chapter 33
See Chapter 33
Flammable liquids
Class lA
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IB
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Class IC
See Chapter 34
See Chapter 34
Flammable solids
Not Apphcable
Not Applicable
Organic peroxides
Unclassified Detonable
Required
Required
Class I
Required
Required
Class II
Class III
Class IV
Class V
Not Required
Not Required
Oxidizers
Class 4
Required
Required
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Pyrophorics
Required
Required
Unstable (reactives)
Class 4
Required
Required
Class 3
Class 2
Class 1
Not Required
Required
Water reactives
Class 3
Required
Required
Class 2
Class 1
Not Required
Required
2. Health-hazard materials
Corrosives
Required
Required
Highly toxics
Toxics
260
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS— GENERAL PROVISIONS
2705.3.3 Location. Outdoor dispensing and use areas for
hazardous materials shall be located as required for outdoor
storage in accordance with Section 2704.
2705.3.4 Spill control for hazardous material liquids in
open systems. Outdoor areas where hazardous material liq-
uids are dispensed in vessels exceeding a 1.3-gallon (5 L)
capacity or used in open systems exceeding a 5.3-gallon (20
L) capacity shall be provided with spill control in accor-
dance with Section 2704.2.1.
2705.3.5 Secondary containment for hazardous mate-
rial liquids in open systems. Where required by Table
2705.2.1.4, outdoor areas where hazardous material liquids
are dispensed or used in open systems shall be provided
with secondary containment in accordance with Section
2704.2.2 when the capacity of an individual vessel or sys-
tem or the capacity of multiple vessels or systems exceeds
the following:
1. Individual vessel or system: greater than 1.3 gallons
(5L).
2. Multiple vessels or systems: greater than 5.3 gallons
(20 L).
2705.3.6 Spill control for hazardous material liquids in
closed systems. Outdoor areas where hazardous material
liquids are used in closed systems exceeding 55 gallons
(208 L) shall be provided with spill control in accordance
with Section 2704.2.1.
2705.3.7 Secondary containment for hazardous mate-
rial liquids in closed systems. Where required by Table
2705.2. 1 .4, outdoor areas where hazardous material liquids
are dispensed or used in closed systems shall be provided
with secondary containment in accordance with Section
2704.2.2 when the capacity of an individual vessel or sys-
tem or the capacity of multiple vessels or systems exceeds
the following:
1. Individual vessel or system: greater than 55 gallons
(208 L).
2. Multiple vessels or systems: greater than 1,000 gal-
lons (3785 L).
2705.3.8 Clearance from combustibles. The area sur-
rounding an outdoor dispensing or use area shall be kept
clear of combustible materials and vegetation for a mini-
mum distance of 30 feet (9144 mm).
2705.3.9 Weather protection. Where overhead
noncombustible construction is provided for sheltering out-
door hazardous material use areas, such use shall not be
considered indoor use when the area is constructed in accor-
dance with the requirements for weather protection as
required in the International Building Code.
Exception: Use of explosive materials shall be consid-
ered as indoor use.
2705.4 Handling. Handling of hazardous materials shall be in
accordance with Sections 2705.4.1 through 2705.4.4.
2705.4.1 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. Handling of hazardous materi-
als in indoor and outdoor locations in amounts exceeding
the maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated
in Tables 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) through 2703 . 1 . 1 (4) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705.1 and 2705.4.
2705.4.2 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. Handling of hazardous
materials in indoor locations in amounts not exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in
Tables 2703.1.1(1) and 2703.1.1(2) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703 and 2705.1. Handling of hazard-
ous materials in outdoor locations in amounts not exceeding
the maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated
in Tables 2703.1.1(3) and 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701 and 2703.
2705.4.3 Location. Outdoor handling areas for hazardous
materials shall be located as required for outdoor storage in
accordance with Section 2704.
2705.4.4 Emergency alarm. Where hazardous materials
having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA
704 are transported through corridors or exit enclosures,
there shall be an emergency telephone system, a local man-
ual alarm station or an approved alarm-initiating device at
not more than 150-foot (45 720 mm) intervals and at each
exit and exit access doorway throughout the transport route.
The signal shall be relayed to an approved central station,
proprietary supervising station or remote supervising sta-
tion or a constantly attended on-site location and shall also
initiate a local audible alarm.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
261
262 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 28
AEROSOLS
SECTION 2801
GENERAL
2801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter, i\\& International
Building Code and NFPA 30B shall apply to the manufactur-
ing, storage and display of aerosol products. Manufacturing of
aerosol products using hazardous materials shall also comply
with Chapter 27.
2801.2 Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth
in Section 105.6.
2801.3 Material Safety Data Slieets. Material Safety Data
Sheet (MSDS) information for aerosol products displayed
shall be kept on the premises at an approved location.
SECTION 2802
DEFINITIONS
2802.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
AEROSOL. A product that is dispensed from an aerosol con-
tainer by a propellant.
Aerosol products shall be classified by means of the calcula-
tion of their chemical heats of combustion and shall be desig-
nated Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3.
Level 1 aerosol products. Those with a total chemical heat
of combustion that is less than or equal to 8,600 British ther-
mal units per pound (Btu/lb) (20 kJ/g).
Level 2 aerosol products. Those with a total chemical heat
of combustion that is greater than 8,600 Btu/lb (20 kJ/g), but
less than or equal to 13,000 Btu/lb (30 kJ/g).
Level 3 aerosol products. Those with a total chemical heat
of combustion that is greater than 13,000 Btu/lb (30 kJ/g).
AEROSOL CONTAINER. A metal can, or a glass or plastic
bottle designed to dispense an aerosol. Metal cans shall be lim-
ited to a maximum size of 3 3 . 8 fluid ounces ( 1 000 ml) . Glass or
plastic bottles shall be limited to a maximum size of 4 fluid
ounces (118 ml).
AEROSOL WAREHOUSE. A building used for warehous-
ing aerosol products.
PROPELLANT. The liquefied or compressed gas in an aero-
sol container that expels the contents from an aerosol container
when the valve is actuated. A propellant is considered flamma-
ble if it forms a flammable mixture with air, or if a flame is
self-propagating in a mixture with air.
RETAIL DISPLAY AREA. The area of a Group M occu-
pancy open for the purpose of viewing or purchasing merchan-
dise offered for sale. Individuals in such establishments are free
to circulate among the items offered for sale which are typi-
cally displayed on shelves, racks or the floor.
SECTION 2803
CLASSIFICATION OF AEROSOL PRODUCTS
2803.1 Classification levels. Aerosol products shall be classi-
fied as Level 1, 2 or 3 in accordance with Table 2803.1 and
NFPA 30B. Aerosol products in cartons which are not identified
in accordance with this section shall be classified as Level 3.
TABLE 2803.1
CLASSIFICATION OF AEROSOL PRODUCTS
CHEMICAL HEAT OF COMBUSTION
AEROSOL
CLASSIFICATION
Greater than
(Btu/lb)
Less than or equal to
(Btu/lb)-^
8,600
1
8,600
13,000
2
13,000
—
3
For SI: 1 British thermal unit per pound = 0.002326 kJ/g.
2803.2 Identification. Cartons shall be identified on at least
one side with the classification level of the aerosol products
contained within the carton as follows:
LEVEL AEROSOLS ""
SECTION 2804
INSIDE STORAGE OF AEROSOL PRODUCTS
2804.1 General. The inside storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol
products shall comply with Sections 2804.2 through 2804.7
and NFPA 30B. Level I aerosol products shall be considered
equivalent to a Class III commodity and shall comply with the
requirements for palletized or rack storage in NFPA 13.
2804.2 Storage in Groups A, B, E, F, I and R. Storage of
Level 2 and 3 aerosol products in occupancies in Groups A, B,
E, F, I and R shall be limited to the following maximum quanti-
ties:
1 . A net weight of 1 ,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 aerosol
products.
2. A net weight of 500 pounds (227 kg) of Level 3 aerosol
products.
3. A combined net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of
Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
The maximum quantity shall be increased 100 percent
where the excess quantity is stored in storage cabinets in accor-
dance with Section 3404.3.2.
2804.2.1 Excess storage. Storage of quantities exceeding
the maximum quantities indicated in Section 2804.2 shall
be stored in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms
in accordance with Section 2804.5.
2804.3 Storage in general purpose warehouses. Aerosol
storage in general purpose warehouses utilized only for ware-
housing-type operations involving mixed commodities shall
comply with Section 2804.3.1 or 2804.3.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
263
AEROSOLS
2804.3.1 Nonsegregated storage. Storage consisting of
solid pile, palletized or rack storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol
products not segregated into areas utilized exclusively for
the storage of aerosols shall comply with Table 2804.3.1.
TABLE 2804.3.1
NONSEGREGATED STORAGE OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL
PRODUCTS IN GENERAL PURPOSE WAREHOUSES"
TABLE 2804.3.2
SEGREGATED STORAGE OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL
PRODUCTS IN GENERAL PURPOSE WAREHOUSES
AEROSOL
LEVEL
MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)"
Palletized or
solid-pile storage
Rack storage
Unprotected
Protected^
Unprotected
Protected^
2
2,500
12,000
2,500
24,000
3
1,000
12,000
1,000
24,000
Combination
2 and 3
2,500
12,000
2,500
24,000
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. Approved automatic sprinkler system protection and storage arrangements
shall comply with NFPA 30B. Sprinkler system protection shall extend 20
feet beyond the storage area containing the aerosol products.
b. Storage quantities indicated are the maximum permitted in any
50,000-square-foot area.
2804.3.2 Segregated storage. Storage of Level 2 and 3
aerosol products segregated into areas utilized exclusively
for the storage of aerosols shall comply with Table 2804.3.2
and Sections 2804.3.2.1 and 2804.3.2.2.
2804.3.2.1 Chain-link fence enclosures. Chain-link
fence enclosures required by Table 2804.3.2 shall com-
ply with the following:
1. The fence shall not be less than No. 9 gage steel
wire, woven into a maximum 2-inch (5 1 mm) dia-
mond mesh.
2. The fence shall be installed from the floor to the
underside of the roof or ceiling above.
3. Class IV and high-hazard commodities shall be
stored outside of the aerosol storage area and a
minimum of 8 feet (2438 mm) from the fence.
4. Access openings in the fence shall be provided
with either self- or automatic-closing devices or a
labyrinth opening arrangement preventing aerosol
containers from rocketing through the access
openings.
5. Not less than two means of egress shall be pro-
vided from the fenced enclosure.
2804.3.2.2 Aisles. The minimum aisle requirements for
segregated storage in general purpose warehouses shall
comply with Table 2804.3.2.2.
2804.4 Storage in aerosol warehouses. The total quantity of
Level 2 and 3 aerosol products in a warehouse utilized for the
storage, shipping and receiving of aerosol products shall not be
restricted in structures complying with Sections 2804.4.1
through 2804.4.4.
STORAGE
SEPARATION
MAXIMUM SEGREGATED
STORAGE AREA"
SPRINKLER
REQUIREMENTS
Percentage of
building area
(percent)
Area
limitation
(square feet)
Separation area*"' ^
15
20,000
Notes b, c
Chain-link fence
enclosure '^
20
20,000
Notes b, c
1-hour
fire-resistance-rated
interior walls
20
30,000
Noteb
2-hour
fire-resistance-rated
interior walls
25
40,000
Noteb
3 -hour
fire-resistance-rated
interior walls
30
50,000
Noteb
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. The maximum segregated storage area shall be limited to the smaller of the
two areas resulting from the percentage of building area limitation and the
area limitation.
b. Automatic sprinkler system protection in aerosol product storage areas shall
comply with NFPA 30B and be approved. Building areas not containing
aerosol product storage shall be equipped throughout with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
c. Automatic sprinkler system protection in aerosol product storage areas shall
comply with NFPA 30B and be approved. Sprinkler system protection shall
extend a minimum 20 feet beyond the aerosol storage area.
d. Chain-link fence enclosures shall comply with Section 2804.3.2.1.
e. A separation area shall be defined as an area extending outward from the
periphery of the segregated aerosol product storage area as follows.
1 . The limits of the aerosol product storage shall be clearly marked on the
floor.
2. The separation distance shall be a minimum of 25 feet and maintained
clear of all materials with a commodity classification greater than
Class ni in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
f. Separation areas shall only be permitted where approved.
TABLE 2804.3.2.2
SEGREGATED STORAGE AISLE WIDTHS AND DISTANCE TO
AISLES IN GENERAL PURPOSE WAREHOUSES
STORAGE
CONDITION
MINIMUM
AISLE WIDTH (feet)
MAXIMUM DISTANCE
FROM STORAGE TO
AISLE (feet)
Solid pile or
palletized'''
4 feet between piles
25
Racks with ESFR
sprinklers"
4 feet between racks and
adjacent Level 2 and 3
aerosol product storage
25
Racks without
ESFR sprinklers'*
8 feet between racks and
adjacent Level 2 and 3
aerosol product storage
25
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Sprinklers shall comply with NFPA 30B.
2804.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Aerosol ware-
houses shall be protected by an approved wet-pipe auto-
matic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA SOB.
Sprinkler protection shall be designed based on the highest
classification level of aerosol product present.
264
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
AEROSOLS
2804.4.2 Pile and palletized storage aisles. Solid pile and
palletized storage shall be arranged so the maximum travel
distance to an aisle is 25 feet (7620 mm). Aisles shall have a
minimum width of 4 feet (1219 mm).
2804.4.3 Rack storage aisles. Rack storage shall be
arranged with a minimum aisle width of 8 feet (2438 mm)
between rows of racks and 8 feet (2438 mm) between racks
and adjacent solid pile or palletized storage. Where early
suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers provide auto-
matic sprinkler protection, the minimum aisle width shall be
4 feet (1219 mm).
2804.4.4 Combustible commodities. Combustible com-
modities other than flammable and combustible liquids
shall be permitted to be stored in an aerosol warehouse.
Exception: Flammable and combustible liquids in
1 -quart (946 mL) metal containers and smaller shall be
permitted to be stored in an aerosol warehouse.
2804.5 Storage in inside flammable liquid storage rooms.
Inside flammable liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sec-
tion 3404.3.7. The maximum quantities of aerosol products
shall comply with Section 2804.5.1 or 2804.5.2.
2804.5.1 Storage rooms of 500 square feet or less. The
storage of aerosol products in flammable liquid storage
rooms less than or equal to 500 square feet (46 m^) in area
shall not exceed the following quantities:
1. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2
aerosol products.
2. A net weight of 500 pounds (227 kg) of Level 3 aero-
sol products.
3. A combined net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of
Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
2804.5.2 Storage rooms greater than 500 square feet.
The storage of aerosol products in flammable liquid storage
rooms greater than 500 square feet (46 m^) in area shall not
exceed the following quantities:
1. A net weight of 2,500 pounds (1135 kg) of Level 2
aerosol products.
2. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 3
aerosol products.
3. A combined net weight of 2,500 pounds (1 135 kg) of
Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
The maximum aggregate storage quantity of Level 2 and
3 aerosol products permitted in separate inside storage
rooms protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system
in accordance with NFPA 30B shall be 5,000 pounds (2270
kg).
2804.6 Storage in liquid warehouses. The storage of Level 2
and 3 aerosol products in liquid warehouses shall comply with
NFPA 30B. The storage shall be located within segregated stor-
age areas in accordance with Section 2804.3.2 and Sections
2804.6.1 through 2804.6.3.
2804.6.1 Containment. Spill control or drainage shall be
provided to prevent the flow of liquid to within 8 feet (2438
mm) of the segregated storage area.
2804.6.2 Sprinkler design. Sprinkler protection shall be
designed based on the highest level of aerosol product pres-
ent.
2804.6.3 Opening protection into segregated storage
areas. Fire doors or gates opening into the segregated stor-
age area shall either be self-closing or provided with auto-
matic-closing devices activated by sprinkler water flow or
an approved fire detection system.
2804.7 Storage in Group M occupancies. Storage of Level 2
and 3 aerosol products in occupancies in Group M shall com-
ply with Table 2804.7. Retail display shall comply with Section
2806.
TABLE 2804.7
MAXIMUM QUANTITIES OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL
PRODUCTS IN RETAIL STORAGE AREAS
MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)
Floor
Nonsegregated
storage"'"
Segregated storage
Storage
cabinets''
Separated from
retail area'^
Basement
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Ground floor
2,500
5,000
Noted
Upper floors
500
1,000
Noted
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 ml
a. The total aggregate quantity on display and in storage shall not exceed the
maximum retail display quantity indicated in Section 2806.3.
b. Storage quantities indicated are the maximum permitted in any
50,000-square-foot area.
c. The storage area shall be separated from the retail area with a 1-hour
fire-resistance-rated assembly.
d. See Table 2804.3.2.
SECTION 2805
OUTSIDE STORAGE
2805.1 General. The outside storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol
products, including storage in temporary storage trailers, shall
be separated from exposures in accordance with Table 2805 . 1 .
TABLE 2805.1
DISTANCE TO EXPOSURES FOR OUTSIDE STORAGE OF
LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL PRODUCTS
EXPOSURE
MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM
AEROSOL STORAGE (feet) ^
Public alleys, public ways, public
streets
20
Buildings
50
Exit discharge to a public way
50
Lot lines
20
Other outside storage
50
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. The minimum separation distance indicated is not required where exterior
walls having a 2-hour fu-e-resistance rating without penetrations separate the
storage from the exposure. The walls shall extend not less than 30 inches
above and to the sides of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
265
AEROSOLS
SECTION 2806
RETAIL DISPLAY
2806.1 GeneraL This section shall apply to the retail display of
500 pounds (227 kg) or more of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
2806.2 Aerosol display and normal merchandising not
exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) high. Aerosol display and normal
merchandising not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in height shall
be in accordance with Sections 2806.2.1 through 2806.2.4.
2806.2.1 Maximum quantities in retail display areas.
Aerosol products in retail display areas shall not exceed
quantities needed for display and normal merchandising
and shall not exceed the quantities in Table 2806.2.1.
TABLE 2806.2.1
MAXIMUM QUANTITIES OF LEVEL 2 AND
3 AEROSOL PRODUCTS IN RETAIL DISPLAY AREAS
MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)"
Floor
Unprotected^
Protected in
accordance with
Section 2806.2^'=
Protected in
accordance with
Section 2806.3*=
Basement
Not allowed
500
500
Ground
2,500
10,000
10,000
Upper
500
2,000
Not allowed
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. The total quantity shall not exceed 1,000 pounds net weight in any one
100- square-foot retail display area.
b. Per 25,000-square-foot retail display area.
c. Minimum Ordinary Hazard Group 2 wet-pipe automatic sprinkler system
throughout the retail sales occupancy.
2806.2.2 Display of containers. Level 2 and 3 aerosol con-
tainers shall not be stacked more than 6 feet ( 1 829 mm) high
from the base of the aerosol array to the top of the aerosol
array unless the containers are placed on fixed shelving or
otherwise secured in an approved manner. When storage or
retail display is on shelves, the height of such storage or
retail display to the top of aerosol containers shall not
exceed 8 feet (2438 mm).
2806.2.3 Combustible cartons. Aerosol products located
in retail display areas shall be removed from combustible
cartons.
Exceptions:
1 . Display areas that use a portion of combustible car-
tons that consist of only the bottom panel and not
more than 2 inches (51 mm) of the side panel are
allowed.
2. When the display area is protected in accordance with
Tables 6.3.2.7(a) through 6.3.2.7(1) of NFPA 30B,
storage of aerosol products in combustible cartons is
allowed.
2806.2.4 Retail display automatic sprinkler system.
When an automatic sprinkler system is required for the pro-
tected retail display of aerosol products, the wet-pipe auto-
matic sprinkler system shall be in accordance with Section
903.3. 1 . 1 . The minimum system design shall be for an Ordi-
nary Hazard Group 2 occupancy. The system shall be pro-
vided throughout the retail display area.
2806.3 Aerosol display and normal merchandising exceed-
ing 8 feet (2438 mm) high. Aerosol display and merchandis-
ing exceeding 8 feet in height shall be in accordance with
Sections 2806.3.1 through 2806.3.3.
2806.3.1 Maximum quantities in retail display areas.
Aerosol products in retail display areas shall not exceed
quantities needed for display and normal merchandising
and shall not exceed the quantities in Table 2806.2.1, with
fire protection in accordance with Section 2806.3.2.
2806.3.2 Automatic sprinkler protection. Aerosol display
and merchandising areas shall be protected by an automatic
sprinkler system based on the requirements set forth in
Tables 6.3.2.7(a) through 6.3.2.7(1) of NFPA 30B and the
following:
1 . Protection shall be based on the highest level of aero-
sol product in the array and the packaging method of
the storage located more than 6 feet (1829 mm) above
the finished floor.
2. When using the cartoned aerosol tables of NFPA 30B,
uncartoned or display-cut Level 2 and 3 aerosols shall
be permitted not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) above
the finished floor.
3. The design area for Level 2 and 3 aerosols shall
extend not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) beyond the
Level 2 and 3 aerosol display and merchandising
areas.
4. Where ordinary and high-temperature ceiling sprin-
kler systems are adjacent to each other,
noncombustible draft curtains shall be installed at the
interface.
2806.3.3 Separation of Level 2 and 3 aerosol areas. Sepa-
ration of Level 2 and 3 aerosol areas shall comply with the
following:
1. Level 2 and 3 aerosol display and merchandising
areas shall be separated from each other by not less
than 25 feet (7620 mm). Also see Table 2806.2.1.
2. Level 2 and 3 aerosol display and merchandising
areas shall be separated from flammable and combus-
tible liquids storage and display areas by one or a
combination of the following:
2. 1 . Segregating areas from each other by horizon-
tal distance of not less than 25 feet (7620 mm).
2.2. Isolating areas from each other by a
noncombustible partition extending not less
than 18 inches (457 mm) above the merchan-
dise.
2.3. In accordance with Section 2806.5.
3. When Item 2.2 above is used to separate Level 2 or 3
aerosols from flammable or combustible liquids, and
the aerosol products are located within 25 feet (7620
mm) of flammable or combustible liquids, the area
below the noncombustible partition shall be liquid
tight at the floor to prevent spilled liquids from flow-
ing beneath the aerosol products.
266
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
AEROSOLS
2806.4 Maximum quantities in storage areas. Aerosol prod-
ucts in storage areas adjacent to retail display areas shall not
exceed the quantities in Table 2806.4.
2806.5 Special protection design for Level 2 and 3 aerosols
adjacent to flammable and combustible liquids in dou-
ble-row racks. The display and merchandising of Level 2 and
3 aerosols adjacent to flammable and combustible liquids in
double-row racks shall be in accordance with Sections
2806.5.1 through 2806.5.8 or Section 2806.3.3.
2806.5.1 Fire protection. Fire protection for the display
and merchandising of Level 2 and 3 aerosols in double-row
racks shall be in accordance with Table 7.4.1 and Figure
7.4.1 of NFPA30B.
2806.5.2 Cartoned products. Level 2 and 3 aerosols dis-
played or merchandised more than 8 feet (2438 mm) above
the finished floor shall be in cartons.
2806.5.3 Shelving. Shelving in racks shall be limited to
wire mesh shelving having uniform openings not more than
6 inches (152 mm) apart, with the openings comprising at
least 50 percent of the overall shelf area.
2806.5.4 Aisles. Racks shall be arranged so that aisles not
less than 7V2 feet (2286 mm) wide are maintained between
rows of racks and adjacent solid-piled or palletized mer-
chandise.
2806.5.5 Flue spaces. Flue spaces in racks shall comply
with the following:
1. Transverse flue spaces-Nominal 3-inch (76 mm)
transverse flue spaces shall be maintained between
merchandise and rack uprights.
2. Longitudinal flue spaces-Nominal 6-inch (152 nmi)
longitudinal flue spaces shall be maintained.
2806.5.6 Horizontal barriers. Horizontal barriers con-
structed of minimum Vg-inch-thick (10 mm) plywood or
minimum 0.034-inch (0.086 mm) (No. 22 gage) sheet metal
shall be provided and located in accordance with Table 7.4. 1
and Figure 7.4.1 of NFPA 30B when in-rack sprinklers are
installed.
2806.5.7 Class I, II, III, IV and plastic commodities.
Class I, II, III, IV and plastic commodities located adjacent
to Level 2 and 3 aerosols shall be protected in accordance
with NFPA 13.
2806.5.8 Flammable and combustible liquids. Class I, II,
in A and III B Liquids shall be allowed to be located adja-
cent to Level 2 and 3 aerosol products when the following
conditions are met:
1 . Class I, II, III A and IIIB liquid containers: Containers
for Class I, II, IIIA and IIIB liquids shall be limited to
1.06-gallon (4 L) metal-relieving and nonrelieving
style containers and 5.3-gallon (20 L) metal-relieving
style containers.
2. Fire protection for Class I, II, IIIA and IIIB Liquids:
Fire sprinkler protection for Class I, II, IIIA and IIIB
liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 34.
SECTION 2807
MANUFACTURING FACILITIES
2807.1 General. Manufacturing facilities shall be in accor-
dance with NFPA 30B.
TABLE 2806.4
MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITIES FOR STORAGE AREAS ADJACENT TO RETAIL
DISPLAY OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOLS
MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (POUNDS)
Floor
Unseparated^'"
Separated
Storage Cabinets''
1-hour Occupancy Separation
Basement
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Ground
2,500
5,000
In accordance with Sections
6.3.4.3 and 6.3.4.4 of NFPA 30B
Upper
500
1,000
In accordance with Sections
6.3.4.3 and 6.3.4.4 of NFPA 30B
For SI: I pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^.
a. The aggregate quantity in storage and retail display shall not exceed the quantity limits for retail display.
b. In any 50,000-square-foot area.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
267
268 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 29
COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS
SECTION 2901
GENERAL
2901.1 Scope. The equipment, processes and operations
involving combustible fibers shall comply with this chapter.
2901.2 Applicability. Storage of combustible fibers in any
quantity shall comply with this section.
2901.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 2902
DEFINITIONS
2902.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
BALED COTTON. A natural seed fiber wrapped in and
secured with industry-accepted materials, usually consisting of
burlap, woven polypropylene, polyethylene or cotton or sheet
polyethylene, and secured with steel, synthetic or wire bands,
or wire; also includes linters (lint removed from the cotton-
seed) and motes (residual materials from the ginning process).
BALED COTTON, DENSELY PACKED. Cotton, made into
banded bales, with a packing density of at least 22 pounds per
cubic foot (360 kg/m^), and dimensions complying with the
following: a length of 55 inches (1397 mm), a width of 21
inches (533.4 mm) and a height of 27.6 to 35.4 inches. (701 to
899 mm).
COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS. Readily ignitable and free-burn-
ing materials in a fibrous or shredded form, such as cocoa fiber,
cloth, cotton, excelsior, hay, hemp, henequen, istle, jute, kapok,
oakum, rags, sisal, Spanish moss, straw, tow, wastepaper, cer-
tain synthetic fibers or other like materials. This definition does
not include densely packed baled cotton.
SEED COTTON. Perishable raw agricultural conmiodity
consisting of cotton fiber (lint) attached to the seed of the cot-
ton plant, which requires ginning to become a commercial
product.
SECTION 2903
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
2903.1 Use of combustible receptacles. Ashes, waste, rubbish
or sweepings shall not be placed in wood or other combustible
receptacles and shall be removed daily from the structure.
2903.2 Vegetation. Grass or weeds shall not be allowed to
accumulate at any point on the premises.
2903.3 Clearances. A minimum clearance of 3 feet (914 mm)
shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top
of piles.
2903.4 Agricultural products. Hay, straw, seed cotton or sim-
ilar agricultural products shall not be stored adjacent to struc-
tures or combustible materials unless a clear horizontal
distance equal to the height of a pile is maintained between
such storage and structures or combustible materials. Storage
shall be limited to stacks of 100 tons (91 metric tons) each.
Stacks shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm)
of clear space. Quantities of hay, straw, seed cotton and other
agricultural products shall not be limited where stored in or
near farm structures located outside closely built areas. A per-
mit shall not be required for agricultural storage.
2903.5 Dust collection. Where located within a building,
equipment or machinery which generates or emits combustible
fibers shall be provided with an approved dust-collecting and
exhaust system. Such systems shall comply with Chapter 13
and Section 5 1 1 of the International Mechanical Code.
2903.6 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Section 906
as required for extra-hazard occupancy protection as indicated
in Table 906.3(1).
SECTION 2904
LOOSE FIBER STORAGE
2904.1 General. Loose combustible fibers, not in suitable
bales or packages and whether housed or in the open, shall not
be stored within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of any structure, except
as indicated in this chapter.
2904.2 Storage of 100 cubic feet or less. Loose combustible
fibers in quantities of not more than 100 cubic feet (3 m^)
located in a structure shall be stored in a metal or metal-lined
bin equipped with a self-closing cover.
2904.3 Storage of more than 100 cubic feet to 500 cubic feet.
Loose combustible fibers in quantities exceeding 100 cubic
feet (3 m^) but not exceeding 500 cubic feet (14 m^) shall be
stored in rooms enclosed with 1-hour fire-resistance-rated fire
barriers, with openings protected by an approved opening pro-
tective assembly having a fire protection rating of '^1^ hour, con-
structed in accordance with the International Building Code.
2904.4 Storage of more than 500 cubic feet to 1,000 cubic
feet. Loose combustible fibers in quantities exceeding 500
cubic feet (14 m^) but not exceeding 1,000 cubic feet (28 m^)
shall be stored in rooms enclosed with 2-hour fire-resis-
tance-rated fire barriers, with openings protected by an
approved opening protective assembly having a fire protection
rating of IVj hours, and constructed in accordance with the
International Building Code.
2904.5 Storage of more than 1,000 cubic feet. Loose com-
bustible fibers in quantities exceeding 1,000 cubic feet (28 m^)
shall be stored in rooms enclosed with 2-hour fire-resis-
tance-rated fire barriers, with openings protected by an
approved opening protective assembly having a fire protection
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
269
COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS
rating of IV2 hours, and constructed in accordance with the
International Building Code. The storage room shall be pro-
tected by an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1.
2904.6 Detached storage structure. A maximum of 2,500
cubic feet (70 m^) of loose combustible fibers shall be stored in
a detached structure suitably located, with openings protected
against entrance of sparks. The structure shall not be occupied
for any other purpose.
SECTION 2905
BALED STORAGE
2905.1 Bale size and separation. Baled combustible fibers
shall be limited to single blocks or piles not more than 25,000
cubic feet (700 m^) in volume, not including aisles or clear-
ances. Blocks or piles of baled fiber shall be separated from
adjacent storage by aisles not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) wide,
or by flash-fire barriers constructed of continuous sheets of
noncombustible material extending from the floor to a mini-
mum height of 1 foot (305 mm) above the highest point of the
piles and projecting not less than 1 foot (305 mm) beyond the
sides of the piles.
2905.2 Special baling conditions. Sisal and other fibers in
bales bound with combustible tie ropes, jute and other fibers
that swell when wet, shall be stored to allow for expansion in
any direction without affecting building walls, ceilings or col-
umns. A minimum clearance of 3 feet (914 mm) shall be
required between walls and sides of piles, except that where the
storage compartment is not more than 30 feet (9 144 mm) wide,
the minimum clearance at side walls shall be 1 foot (305 mm),
provided that a center aisle not less than 5 feet ( 1 524 mm) wide
is maintained.
270
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
CHAPTER 30
COMPRESSED GASES
SECTION 3001
GENERAL
3001.1 Scope. Storage, use and handling of compressed gases
in compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems
shall comply with this chapter, including those gases regulated
elsewhere in this code. Partially full compressed gas contain-
ers, cylinders or tanks containing residual gases shall be con-
sidered as full for the purposes of the controls required.
Exceptions:
1. Gases used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems
(see Section 606).
2. Compressed natural gas (CNG) for use as a vehicular
fuel shall comply with Chapter 22, NFPA 52 and the
International Fuel Gas Code.
Cutting and welding gases shall also comply with Chapter
26.
Cryogenic fluids shall also comply with Chapter 32. Lique-
fied natural gas for use as a vehicular fuel shall also comply
with NFPA 57 and NFPA 59A.
Compressed gases classified as hazardous materials shall
also comply with Chapter 27 for general requirements and
chapters addressing specific hazards, including Chapters 35
(Flammable Gases), 37 (Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials), 40
(Oxidizers) and 41 (Pyrophoric).
LP-gas shall also comply with Chapter 38 and the Interna-
tional Fuel Gas Code.
3001.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 3002
DEFINITIONS
3002.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
COMPRESSED GAS. A material, or mixture of materials
which:
1. Is a gas at 68°F (20°C) or less at 14.7 psia (101 kPa) of
pressure; and
2. Has a boihng point of 68°F (20°C) or less at 14.7 psia
(101 kPa) which is either liquefied, nonliquefied or in
solution, except those gases which have no other health-
or physical-hazard properties are not considered to be
compressed until the pressure in the packaging exceeds
41 psia (28 kPa) at 68°F (20°C).
The states of a compressed gas are categorized as follows:
1. Nonliquefied compressed gases are gases, other than
those in solution, which are in a packaging under the
charged pressure and are entirely gaseous at a tempera-
ture of 68°F (20°C).
2. Liquefied compressed gases are gases that, in a packag-
ing under the charged pressure, are partially liquid at a
temperature of 68°F (20°C).
3 . Compressed gases in solution are nonliquefied gases that
are dissolved in a solvent.
4. Compressed gas mixtures consist of a mixture of two or
more compressed gases contained in a packaging, the
hazard properties of which are represented by the proper-
ties of the mixture as a whole.
COMPRESSED GAS CONTAINER. A pressure vessel
designed to hold compressed gases at pressures greater than
one atmosphere at 68°F (20°C) and includes cylinders, con-
tainers and tanks.
COMPRESSED GAS SYSTEM. An assembly of equipment
designed to contain, distribute or transport compressed gases.
It can consist of a compressed gas container or containers, reac-
tors and appurtenances, including pumps, compressors and
connecting piping and tubing.
NESTING. A method of securing flat-bottomed compressed
gas cylinders upright in a tight mass using a contiguous
three-point contact system whereby all cylinders within a
group have a minimum of three points of contact with other cyl-
inders, walls or bracing.
SECTION 3003
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3003.1 Containers, cylinders and tanks. Compressed gas
containers, cylinders and tanks shall comply with this section.
Compressed gas containers, cylinders or tanks that are not
designed for refillable use shall not be refilled after use of the
original contents.
3003.2 Design and construction. Compressed gas containers,
cylinders and tanks shall be designed, fabricated, tested,
marked with the specifications of manufacture and maintained
in accordance with regulations of DOTn 49 CFR, Parts
100-178 or the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Sec-
tion vm.
3003.3 Pressure relief devices. Pressure relief devices shall be
in accordance with Sections 3003.3.1 through 3003.3.5.
3003.3.1 Where required. Pressure relief devices shall be
provided to protect containers, cylinders and tanks contain-
ing compressed gases from rupture in the event of
overpressure.
Exception: Cylinders, containers and tanks when
exempt from the requirements for pressure relief devices
specified by the standards of design listed in Section
3003.3.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
271
COMPRESSED GASES
3003.3.2 Design. Pressure relief devices to protect contain-
ers shall be designed and provided in accordance with CGA
S-1.1, CGA S-1.2, CGA S-1.3 or the ASME Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, as applicable.
3003.3.3 Sizing. Pressure relief devices shall be sized in
accordance with the specifications to which the container
was fabricated and to material specific requirements as
applicable.
3003.3.4 Arrangement. Pressure relief devices shall be
arranged to discharge upward and unobstructed to the open
air in such a manner as to prevent any impingement of
escaping gas upon the container, adjacent structures or per-
sonnel.
Exception: DOTn specification containers having an
internal volume of 30 cubic feet (0.855 m^) or less.
3003.3.5 Freeze protection. Pressure relief devices or vent
piping shall be designed or located so that moisture cannot
collect and freeze in a manner that would interfere with the
operation of the device.
3003.4 Marking. Stationary and portable compressed gas con-
tainers, cylinders, tanks and systems shall be marked in accor-
dance with Sections 3003.4.1 through 3003.4.3.
3003.4.1 Stationary compressed gas containers, cylin-
ders and tanks. Stationary compressed gas containers, cyl-
inders and tanks shall be marked with the name of the gas
and in accordance with Sections 2703.5 and 2703.6. Mark-
ings shall be visible from any direction of approach.
3003.4.2 Portable containers, cylinders and tanks. Porta-
ble compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be
marked in accordance with CGA C-7.
3003.4.3 Piping systems. Piping systems shall be marked
in accordance with ASME Al 3. 1 . Markings used for piping
systems shall consist of the content's name and include a
direction-of-flow arrow. Markings shall be provided at each
valve; at wall, floor or ceiling penetrations; at each change
of direction; and at a minimum of every 20 feet (6096 mm)
or fraction thereof throughout the piping run.
Exceptions:
1. Piping that is designed or intended to carry more
than one gas at various times shall have appropri-
ate signs or markings posted at the manifold, along
the piping and at each point of use to provide clear
identification and warning.
2. Piping within gas manufacturing plants, gas pro-
cessing plants, refineries and similar occupancies
shall be marked in an approved manner.
3003.5 Security. Compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks
and systems shall be secured against accidental dislodgement
and against access by unauthorized personnel in accordance
with Sections 3003.5.1 through 3003.5.3.
3003.5.1 Security of areas. Areas used for the storage, use
and handling of compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks
and systems shall be secured against unauthorized entry and
safeguarded in an approved manner.
3003.5.2 Physical protection. Compressed gas containers,
cylinders, tanks and systems which could be exposed to
physical damage shall be protected. Guai^d posts or other
approved means shall be provided to protect compressed
gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems indoors and
outdoors from vehicular damage and shall comply with Sec-
tion 312.
3003.5.3 Securing compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks. Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks
shall be secured to prevent falling caused by contact, vibra-
tion or seismic activity. Securing of compressed gas con-
tainers, cylinders and tanks shall be by one of the following
methods:
1. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks to a fixed
object with one or more restraints.
2. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks on a cart or
other mobile device designed for the movement of
compressed gas containers, cylinders or tanks.
3. Nesting of compressed gas containers, cylinders and
tanks at container filling or servicing facilities or in
seller's warehouses not accessible to the public. Nest-
ing shall be allowed provided the nested containers,
cylinders or tanks, if dislodged, do not obstruct the
required means of egress.
4. Securing of compressed gas containers, cylinders and
tanks to or within a rack, framework, cabinet or simi-
lar assembly designed for such use.
Exception: Compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks in the process of examination, filling,
transport or servicing.
3003.6 Valve protection. Compressed gas container, cylinder
and tank valves shall be protected from physical damage by
means of protective caps, collars or similar devices in accor-
dance with Sections 3003.6.1 and 3003.6.2.
3003.6.1 Compressed gas container, cylinder or tank
protective caps or collars. Compressed gas containers,
cylinders and tanks designed for protective caps, collars or
other protective devices shall have the caps or devices in
place except when the containers, cylinders or tanks are in
use or are being serviced or filled.
3003.6.2 Caps and plugs. Compressed gas containers, cyl-
inders and tanks designed for valve protection caps or other
protective devices shall have the caps or devices attached.
When outlet caps or plugs are installed, they shall be in
place.
Exception: Compressed gas containers, cylinders or
tanks in use, being serviced or being filled.
3003.7 Separation from hazardous conditions. Compressed
gas containers, cylinders and tanks and systems in storage or
use shall be separated from materials and conditions which
pose exposure hazards to or from each other. Compressed gas
containers, cylinders, tanks and systems in storage or use shall
be separated in accordance with Sections 3003.7.1 through
3003.7.10.
272
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
COMPRESSED GASES
3003.7.1 Incompatible materials. Compressed gas con-
tainers, cylinders and tanks shall be separated from each
other based on the hazard class of their contents. Com-
pressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be sepa-
rated from incompatible materials in accordance with
Section 2703.9.8.
3003.7.2 Combustible waste, vegetation and similar
materials. Combustible waste, vegetation and similar mate-
rials shall be kept a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from
compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems. A
noncombustible partition, without openings or penetrations
and extending not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above and
to the sides of the storage area is allowed in lieu of such dis-
tance. The wall shall either be an independent structure, or
the exterior wall of the building adjacent to the storage area.
3003.7.3 Ledges, platforms and elevators. Compressed
gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall not be placed near
elevators, unprotected platform ledges or other areas where
falling would result in compressed gas containers, cylinders
or tanks being allowed to drop distances exceeding one-half
the height of the container, cylinder or tank.
3003.7.4 Temperature extremes. Compressed gas con-
tainers, cylinders and tanks, whether full or partially full,
shall not be exposed to artificially created high temperatures
exceeding 125°F (52°C) or subambient (low) temperatures
unless designed for use under the exposed conditions.
3003.7.5 Falling objects. Compressed gas containers, cyl-
inders, tanks and systems shall not be placed in areas where
they are capable of being damaged by falling objects.
3003.7.6 Heating. Compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks, whether full or partially full, shall not be heated
by devices which could raise the surface temperature of the
container, cylinder or tank to above 125°F (52°C). Heating
devices shall comply with the International Mechanical
Code and the ICC Electrical Code Approved heating meth-
ods involving temperatures of less than 125°F (52°C) are
allowed to be used by trained personnel. Devices designed
to maintain individual compressed gas containers, cylinders
or tanks at constant temperature shall be approved and shall
be designed to be fail safe.
3003.7.7 Sources of ignition. Open flames and high-tem-
perature devices shall not be used in a manner which creates
a hazardous condition.
3003.7.8 Exposure to chemicals. Compressed gas contain-
ers, cylinders, tanks and systems shall not be exposed to cor-
rosive chemicals or fumes which could damage containers,
cylinders, tanks, valves or valve-protective caps.
3003.7.9 Exhausted enclosures. When exhausted enclo-
sures are provided as a means to segregate compressed gas
containers, cylinders and tanks from exposure hazards, such
enclosures shall comply with the requirements of Section
2703.8.5.
3003.7.10 Gas cabinets. When gas cabinets are provided as
a means to separate compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks from exposure hazards, such gas cabinets shall
comply with the requirements of Section 2703.8.6.
3003.8 Wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equip-
ment shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code. Compressed
gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems shall not be
located where they could become part of an electrical circuit.
Compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems shall
not be used for electrical grounding.
3003.9 Service and repair. Service, repair, modification or
removal of valves, pressure-relief devices or other compressed
gas container, cylinder or tank appurtenances shall be per-
formed by trained personnel.
3003.10 Unauthorized use. Compressed gas containers, cyl-
inders, tanks and systems shall not be used for any purpose
other than to serve as a vessel for containing the product which
it is designed to contain.
3003.11 Exposure to fire. Compressed gas containers, cylin-
ders and tanks which have been exposed to fire shall be
removed from service. Containers, cylinders and tanks so
removed shall be handled by approved qualified persons.
3003.12 Leaks, damage or corrosion. Leaking, damaged or
corroded compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall
be removed from service. Leaking, damaged or corroded com-
pressed gas systems shall be replaced or repaired in accordance
with the following:
1 . Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks which
have been removed from service shall be handled in an
approved manner.
2. Compressed gas systems which are determined to be
leaking, damaged or corroded shall be repaired to a ser-
viceable condition or removed from service.
3003.13 Surface of unprotected storage or use areas. Unless
otherwise specified in Section 3003.14, compressed gas con-
tainers, cylinders and tanks are allowed to be stored or used
without being placed under overhead cover. To prevent bottom
corrosion, containers, cylinders and tanks shall be protected
from direct contact with soil or unimproved surfaces. The sur-
face of the area on which the containers are placed shall be
graded to prevent accumulation of water.
3003.14 Overhead cover. Compressed gas containers, cylin-
ders and tanks are allowed to be stored or used in the sun except
in locations where extreme temperatures prevail. When
extreme temperatures prevail, overhead covers shall be pro-
vided.
3003.15 Lighting. Approved lighting by natural or artificial
means shall be provided.
3003.16 Vaults. Generation, compression, storage and dis-
pensing equipment for compressed gases shall be allowed to be
located in either above- or below-grade vaults complying with
Sections 3003.16.1 through 3003.16.14.
3003.16.1 Listing required. Vaults shall be listed by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory.
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official,
below-grade vaults are allowed to be constructed on site,
provided that the design is in accordance with the Inter-
national Building Code and that special inspections are
conducted to verify structural strength and compliance
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
273
COMPRESSED GASES
of the installation with the approved design in accor-
dance with Section 1707 of the International Building
Code. Installation plans for below-grade vaults that are
constructed on site shall be prepared by, and the design
shall bear the stamp of, a professional engineer. Consid-
eration shall be given to soil and hydrostatic loading on
the floors, walls and Hd; anticipated seismic forces;
uplifting by ground water or flooding; and to loads
imposed from above, such as traffic and equipment load-
ing on the vault lid.
3003.16.2 Design and construction. The vault shall com-
pletely enclose generation, compression, storage or dis-
pensing equipment located in the vault. There shall be no
openings in the vault enclosure except those necessary for
vault ventilation and access, inspection, filling, emptying or
venting of equipment in the vault. The walls and floor of the
vault shall be constructed of reinforced concrete at least 6
inches (152 mm) thick. The top of an above-grade vault
shall be constructed of noncombustible material and shall
be designed to be weaker than the walls of the vault to ensure
that the thrust of any explosion occurring inside the vault is
directed upward.
The top of an at- or below-grade vault shall be designed to
relieve safely or contain the force of an explosion occurring
inside the vault. The top and floor of the vault and the tank
foundation shall be designed to withstand the anticipated
loading, including loading from vehicular traffic, where
applicable. The walls and floor of a vault installed below
grade shall be designed to withstand anticipated soil and
hydrostatic loading. Vaults shall be designed to be wind and
earthquake resistant, in accordance with the International
Building Code.
3003.16.3 Secondary containment. Vaults shall be sub-
stantially liquid tight and there shall be no backfill within
the vault. The vault floor shall drain to a sump. For
premanufactured vaults, liquid tightness shall be certified as
part of the listing provided by a nationally recognized test-
ing laboratory. For field-erected vaults, liquid tightness
shall be certified in an approved manner.
3003.16.4 Internal clearance. There shall be sufficient
clearance within the vault to allow for visual inspection and
maintenance of equipment in the vault.
3003.16.5 Anchoring. Vaults and equipment contained
therein shall be suitably anchored to withstand uplifting by
groundwater or flooding. The design shall verify that uplift-
ing is prevented even when equipment within the vault is
empty.
3003.16.6 Veliicle impact protection. Vaults shall be resis-
tant to damage from the impact of a motor vehicle, or vehi-
cle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with
Section 312.
3003.16.7 Arrangement. Equipment in vaults shall be
listed or approved for above-ground use. Where multiple
vaults are provided, adjacent vaults shall be allowed to share
a common wall. The common wall shall be liquid and vapor
tight and shall be designed to withstand the load imposed
when the vault on either side of the wall is filled with water.
3003.16.8 Connections. Connections shall be provided to 1^^
permit the venting of each vault to dilute, disperse and ^B
remove vapors prior to personnel entering the vault. *^^
3003.16.9 Ventilation. Vaults shall be provided with an
exhaust ventilation system installed in accordance with Sec-
tion 2704.3. The ventilation system shall operate continu-
ously or be designed to operate upon activation of the vapor
or liquid detection system. The system shall provide ventila-
tion at a rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per minute (cfm)
per square foot of floor area [0.00508 mV(s • m^)], but not
less than 150 cfm [0.071 mV(s • m^)]. The exhaust system
shall be designed to provide air movement across all parts of
the vault floor for gases having a density greater than air and
across all parts of the vault ceiling for gases having a density
less than air. Supply ducts shall extend to within 3 inches (76
mm), but not more than 12 inches (305 mm), of the floor.
Exhaust ducts shall extend to within 3 inches (76 mm), but
not more than 12 inches (305 mm) of the floor or ceiling, for
heavier-than-air or lighter-than-air gases, respectively. The
exhaust system shall be installed in accordance with the
International Mechanical Code.
3003.16.10 Monitoring and detection. Vaults shall be pro-
vided with approved vapor and liquid detection systems and
equipped with on-site audible and visual warning devices
with battery backup. Vapor detection systems shall sound an
alarm when the system detects vapors that reach or exceed
25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL) or one-half the
immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) concen-
tration for the gas in the vault. Vapor detectors shall be
located no higher than 12 inches (305 mm) above the lowest
point in the vault for heavier-than-air gases and no lower
than 12 inches (305 mm) below the highest point in the vault
for lighter-than-air gases. Liquid detection systems shall
sound an alarm upon detection of any liquid, including
water. Liquid detectors shall be located in accordance with
the manufacturers' instructions. Activation of either vapor
or liquid detection systems shall cause a signal to be
sounded at an approved, constantly attended location within
the facility served by the tanks or at an approved location.
Activation of vapor detection systems shall also shut off
gas-handling equipment in the vault and dispensers.
3003.16.11 Liquid removal. Means shall be provided to
recover liquid from the vault. Where a pump is used to meet
this requirement, it shall not be permanently installed in the
vault. Electric-powered portable pumps shall be suitable for
use in Class I, Division 1 locations, as defined in the ICC
Electrical Code.
3003.16.12 Relief vents. Vent pipes for equipment in the
vault shall terminate at least 12 feet (3658 mm) above
ground level.
3003.16.13 Accessway. Vaults shall be provided with an
approved personnel accessway with a minimum dimension
of 30 inches (762 mm) and with a permanently affixed, non-
ferrous ladder. Accessways shall be designed to be
nonsparking. Travel distance from any point inside a vault
to an accessway shall not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm). At each
entry point, a warning sign indicating the need for proce-
dures for safe entry into confined spaces shall be posted.
274
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
COMPRESSED GASES
Entry points shall be secured against unauthorized entry and
vandalism.
3003.16.14 Classified area. The interior of a vault contain-
ing a flammable gas shall be designated a Class I, Division 1
location, as defined in the ICC Electrical Code.
SECTION 3004
STORAGE OF COMPRESSED GASES
3004.1 Upright storage. Compressed gas containers, cylin-
ders and tanks, except those designed for use in a horizontal
position, and all compressed gas containers, cylinders and
tanks containing nonliquefied gases, shall be stored in an
upright position with the valve end up. An upright position
shall include conditions where the container, cylinder or tank
axis is inclined as much as 45 degrees (0.80 rad) from the verti-
cal.
Exceptions:
1 . Compressed gas containers with a water volume less
than 1.3 gallons (5 L) are allowed to be stored in a hor-
izontal position.
2. Cylinders, containers and tanks containing nonflam-
mable gases or cylinders, containers and tanks con-
taining nonliquefied flammable gases, which have
been secured to a pallet for transportation purposes.
3004.2 Material-specific regulations. In addition to the
requirements of this section, indoor and outdoor storage of
compressed gases shall comply with the material-specific pro-
visions of Chapters 31, 35 and 37 through 44.
SECTION 3005
USE AND HANDLING OF COMPRESSED GASES
3005.1 Compressed gas systems. Compressed gas systems
shall be suitable for the use intended and shall be designed by
persons competent in such design. Compressed gas equipment,
machinery and processes shall be listed or approved.
3005.2 Controls. Compressed gas system controls shall be
designed to prevent materials from entering or leaving process
or reaction systems at other than the intended time, rate or path.
Automatic controls shall be designed to be fail safe.
3005.3 Piping systems. Piping, including tubing, valves, fit-
tings and pressure regulators, shall comply with this section
and Chapter 27. Piping, tubing, pressure regulators, valves and
other apparatus shall be kept gas tight to prevent leakage.
3005.4 Valves. Valves utilized on compressed gas systems
shall be suitable for the use intended and shall be accessible.
Valve handles or operators for required shutoff valves shall not
be removed or otherwise altered to prevent access.
3005.5 Venting. Venting of gases shall be directed to an
approved location. Venting shall comply with th& International
Mechanical Code.
3005.6 Upright use. Compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks, except those designed for use in a horizontal posi-
tion, and all compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks
containing nonliquefied gases, shall be used in an upright posi-
tion with the valve end up. An upright position shall include
conditions where the container, cylinder or tank axis is inclined
as much as 45 degrees (0.80 rad) from the vertical. Use of non-
flammable liquefied gases in the inverted position when the liq-
uid phase is used shall not be prohibited provided that the
container, cylinder or tank is properly secured and the dispens-
ing apparatus is designed for liquefied gas use.
Exception; Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks
with a water volume less than 1.3 gallons (5 L) are allowed
to be used in a horizontal position.
3005.7 Transfer. Transfer of gases between containers, cylin-
ders and tanks shall be performed by qualified personnel using
equipment and operating procedures in accordance with CGA
P-1.
Exception: Fueling of vehicles with compressed natural
gas (CNG).
3005.8 Use of compressed gas for inflation. Inflatable equip-
ment, devices or balloons shall only be pressurized or filled
with compressed air or inert gases.
3005.9 Material-specific regulations. In addition to the
requirements of this section, indoor and outdoor use of com-
pressed gases shall comply with the material-specific provi-
sions of Chapters 31, 35 and 37 through 44.
3005.10 Handling. The handling of compressed gas contain-
ers, cyhnders and tanks shall comply with Sections 3005.10.1
and 3005.10.2.
3005.10.1 Carts and trucks. Containers, cylinders and
tanks shall be moved using an approved method. Where
containers, cylinders or tanks are moved by hand cart, hand
truck or other mobile device, such carts, trucks or devices
shall be designed for the secure movement of containers,
cylinders or tanks. Carts and trucks utilized for transport of
compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks within
buildings shall comply with Section 2703.10. Carts and
trucks utilized for transport of compressed gas containers,
cylinders and tanks exterior to buildings shall be designed
so that the containers, cylinders and tanks will be secured
against dropping or otherwise striking against each other or
other surfaces.
3005.10.2 Lifting devices. Ropes, chains or slings shall not
be used to suspend compressed gas containers, cylinders
and tanks unless provisions at time of manufacture have
been made on the container, cylinder or tank for appropriate
lifting attachments, such as lugs.
SECTION 3006
MEDICAL GAS SYSTEMS
3006.1 General. Compressed gases at hospitals and similar
facilities intended for inhalation or sedation including, but not
limited to, analgesia systems for dentistry, podiatry, veterinary
and similar uses shall comply with this section in addition to
other requirements of this chapter.
3006.2 Interior supply location. Medical gases shall be stored
in areas dedicated to the storage of such gases without other
storage or uses. Where containers of medical gases in quanti-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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COMPRESSED GASES
ties greater than the permit amount are located inside buildings,
they shall be in a 1-hour exterior room, a 1-hour interior room
or a gas cabinet in accordance with Section 3006.2. 1 , 3006.2.2
or 3006.2.3.
3006.2.1 One-hour exterior rooms. A 1-hour exterior
room shall be a room or enclosure separated from the
remainder of the building by fire barriers with a fire-resis-
tance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings between the
room or enclosure and interior spaces shall be self-closing
smoke- and draft-control assemblies having a fire protec-
tion rating of not less than 1 hour. Rooms shall have at least
one exterior wall that is provided with at least two vents.
Each vent shall not be less than 36 square inches (0.023 m^)
in area. One vent shall be within 6 inches (152 mm) of the
floor and one shall be within 6 inches (152 mm) of the ceil-
ing. Rooms shall be provided with at least one automatic
sprinkler to provide container cooling in case of fire.
3006.2.2 One-hour interior room. When an exterior wall
cannot be provided for the room, automatic sprinklers shall
be installed within the room. The room shall be exhausted
through a duct to the exterior. Supply and exhaust ducts
shall be enclosed in a 1 -hour-rated shaft enclosure from the
room to the exterior. Approved mechanical ventilation shall
comply with the International Mechanical Code and be pro-
vided at a minimum rate of 1 cubic foot per minute per
square foot [0.00508 mV(s • m^)] of the area of the room.
3006.2.3 Gas cabinets. Gas cabinets shall be constructed in
accordance with Section 2703.8.6 and the following:
1. The average velocity of ventilation at the face of
access ports or windows shall not be less than 200 feet
per minute (61 m/s) with a minimum of 150 feet per
minute (46 m/s) at any point of the access port or win-
dow.
2. Connected to an exhaust system.
3. Internally sprinklered.
3006.3 Exterior supply locations. Oxidizer medical gas sys-
tems located on the exterior of a building with quantities
greater than the permit amount shall be located in accordance
with Section 4004.2.1.
3006.4 Medical gas systems. Medical gas systems including,
but not limited to, distribution piping, supply manifolds, con-
nections, pressure regulators and relief devices and valves,
shall comply with NFPA 99 and the general provisions of this
chapter.
SECTION 3007
COMPRESSED GASES NOT OTHERWISE
REGULATED
3007.1 General. Compressed gases in storage or use not regu-
lated by the material-specific provisions of Chapters 6, 3 1 , 35
and 37 through 44, including asphyxiant, irritant and radioac-
tive gases, shall comply with this section in addition to other
requirements of this chapter.
3007.2 Ventilation. Indoor storage and use areas and storage
buildings shall be provided with mechanical exhaust ventila-
tion or natural ventilation in accordance with the requirements
of Section 2704.3 or 2705. 1 .9. When mechanical ventilation is
provided, the systems shall be operational during such time as
the building or space is occupied.
276
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 31
CORROSIVE MATERIALS
SECTION 3101
GENERAL
3101.1 Scope. The storage and use of corrosive materials shall
be in accordance with this chapter. Compressed gases shall also
comply with Chapter 30.
Exceptions:
1 . Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group
S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11.
2. Stationary storage battery systems in accordance with
Section 608.
3. This chapter shall not apply to R-717 (ammonia)
where used as a refrigerant in a refrigeration system
(see Section 606).
3101.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
^ SECTION 3102
DEFINITIONS
3102.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
CORROSIVE. A chemical that causes visible destruction of,
or irreversible alterations in, living tissue by chemical action at
the point of contact. A chemical shall be considered corrosive
if, when tested on the intact skin of albino rabbits by the method
described in DOTn 49 CFR 173.137, such chemical destroys or
changes irreversibly the structure of the tissue at the point of
contact following an exposure period of 4 hours. This term
does not refer to action on inanimate surfaces.
SECTION 3103
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3103.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of corrosive
materials in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703 and 3101.
3103.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of corrosive materi-
als in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in accordance
with this chapter and Chapter 27.
SECTION 3104
STORAGE
3104.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of corrosive materials
in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(2), shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
3104.1.1 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to the provisions of
Section 2704. 12, floors in storage areas for corrosive liquids
shall be of liquid-tight constmction.
3104.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of corrosive materi-
als in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
3104.2.1 Above-ground outside storage tanks.
Above-ground outside storage tanks exceeding an aggre-
gate quantity of 1,000 gallons (3785 L) of corrosive liquids
shall be provided with secondary containment in accor-
dance with Section 2704.2.2.
3104.2.2 Distance from storage to exposures. Outdoor
storage of corrosive materials shall not be within 20 feet
(6096 mm) of buildings not associated with the manufactur-
ing or distribution of such materials, lot lines, public streets,
public alleys, public ways or means of egress. A 2-hour fire
barrier wall without openings or penetrations, and extend-
ing not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above and to the sides
of the storage area, is allowed in heu of such distance. The
wall shall either be an independent structure, or the exterior
wall of the building adjacent to the storage area.
SECTION 3105
USE
3105.1 Indoor use. The indoor use of corrosive materials in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(2) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
3105.1.1 Liquid transfer. Corrosive liquids shall be trans-
ferred in accordance with Section 2705.1.10.
3105.1.2 Ventilation. When corrosive materials are dis-
pensed or used, mechanical exhaust ventilation in accor-
dance with Section 2705.2.1.1 shall be provided.
3105.2 Outdoor use. The outdoor use of corrosive materials in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
3105.2.1 Distance from use to exposures. Outdoor use of
corrosive materials shall be located in accordance with Sec-
tion 3104.2.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
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•
278 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 32
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
SECTION 3201
GENERAL
3201.1 Scope. Storage, use and handling of cryogenic fluids
shall comply with this chapter. Cryogenic fluids classified as
hazardous materials shall also comply with Chapter 27 for gen-
eral requirements. Partially full containers containing residual
cryogenic fluids shall be considered as full for the purposes of
the controls required.
Exceptions:
1. Fluids used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems
(see Section 606).
2. Liquefied natural gas (LNG), which shall comply
with NFPA 59A.
Oxidizing cryogenic fluids, including oxygen, shall comply
with NFPA 55.
Flammable cryogenic fluids, including hydrogen, methane
and carbon monoxide, shall comply with NFPA 55.
Inert cryogenic fluids, including argon, helium and nitrogen,
shall comply with CGA P-18.
3201.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 3202
DEFINITIONS
3202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
CRYOGENIC CONTAINER. A cryogenic vessel of any size
used for the transportation, handling or storage of cryogenic
fluids.
CRYOGENIC FLUID. A fluid having a boiling point lower
than -130°F (-89.9°C) at 14.7 pounds per square inch atmo-
sphere (psia) (an absolute pressure of 101.3 kPa).
CRYOGENIC VESSEL. A pressure vessel, low-pressure
tank or atmospheric tank designed to contain a cryogenic fluid
on which venting, insulation, refrigeration or a combination of
these is used in order to maintain the operating pressure within
the design pressure and the contents in a liquid phase.
FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUID. A cryogenic fluid
that is flammable in its vapor state.
LOW-PRESSURE TANK. A storage tank designed to with-
stand an internal pressure greater than 0.5 pounds per square
inch gauge (psig) (3.4 kPa) but not greater than 15 psig (103.4
kPa).
SECTION 3203
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3203.1 Containers. Containers employed for storage or use of
cryogenic fluids shall comply with Sections 3203.1.1 through
3203.1.3.2 and Chapter 27.
3203.1.1 Nonstandard containers. Containers, equipment
and devices which are not in compliance with recognized
standards for design and construction shall be approved
upon presentation of satisfactory evidence that they are
designed and constructed for safe operation.
3203.1.1.1 Data submitted for approval. The follow-
ing data shall be submitted to the fire code official with
reference to the deviation from the recognized standard
with the application for approval.
1 . Type and use of container, equipment or device.
2. Material to be stored, used or transported.
3. Description showing dimensions and materials
used in construction.
4. Design pressure, maximum operating pressure
and test pressure. " "
5. Type, size and setting of pressure relief devices.
6. Other data requested by the fire code official.
3203.1.2 Concrete containers. Concrete containers shall
be built in accordance with the International Building Code.
Barrier materials and membranes used in connection with
concrete, but not functioning structurally, shall be compati-
ble with the materials contained.
3203.1.3 Foundations and supports. Containers shall be
provided with substantial concrete or masonry foundations,
or structural steel supports on firm concrete or masonry
foundations. Containers shall be supported to prevent the
concentration of excessive loads on the supporting portion
of the shell. Foundations for horizontal containers shall be
constructed to accommodate expansion and contraction of
the container. Foundations shall be provided to support the
weight of vaporizers or heat exchangers.
3203.1.3.1 Temperature effects. When container foun-
dations or supports are subject to exposure to tempera-
tures below -150°F (-101°C), the foundations or
supports shall be constructed of materials to withstand
the low-temperature effects of cryogenic fluid spillage.
3203.1.3.2 Corrosion protection. Portions of contain-
ers in contact with foundations or saddles shall be
painted to protect against corrosion.
3203.2 Pressure relief devices. Pressure relief devices shall be
provided in accordance with Sections 3203.2.1 through
3203.2.7 to protect containers and systems containing cryo-
genic fluids from rupture in the event of overpressure. Pressure
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279
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
relief devices sliall be designed in accordance with CGA S- 1 . 1 ,
CGAS-1.2andCGAS-1.3.
3203.2.1 Containers. Containers shall be provided with
pressure relief devices.
3203.2.2 Vessels or equipment other than containers.
Heat exchangers, vaporizers, insulation casings surround-
ing containers, vessels and coaxial piping systems in which
liquefied cryogenic fluids could be trapped because of leak-
age from the primary container shall be provided with a
pressure relief device.
3203.2.3 Sizing. Pressure relief _ devices shall be sized in
accordance with the specifications to which the container
was fabricated. The relief device shall have sufficient capac-
ity to prevent the maximum design pressure of the container
or system from being exceeded.
3203.2.4 Accessibility. Pressure relief devices shall be
located such that they are provided with ready access for
inspection and repair.
3203.2.5 Arrangement. Pressure relief devices shall be
arranged to discharge unobstructed to the open air in such a
manner as to prevent impingement of escaping gas on per-
sonnel, containers, equipment and adjacent structures or to
enter enclosed spaces.
Exception: DOTn-specified containers with an internal
volume of 2 cubic feet (0.057 m^) or less.
3203.2.6 Shutoffs between pressure relief devices and
containers. Shutoff valves shall not be installed between
pressure relief devices and containers.
Exception: A shutoff valve is allowed on containers
equipped with multiple pressure-relief device installa-
tions where the arrangement of the valves provides the
full required flow through the minimum number of
required relief devices at all times.
3203.2.7 Temperature limits. Pressure relief devices shall
not be subjected to cryogenic fluid temperatures except
when operating.
3203.3 Pressure relief vent piping. Pressure relief vent-piping
systems shall be constructed and arranged so as to remain func-
tional and direct the flow of gas to a safe location in accordance
with Sections 3203.3.1 and 3203.3.2.
3203.3.1 Sizing. Pressure relief device vent piping shall
have a cross-sectional area not less than that of the pressure
relief device vent opening and shall be arranged so as not to
restrict the flow of escaping gas.
3203.3.2 Arrangement. Pressure relief device vent piping
and drains in vent lines shall be arranged so that escaping
gas will discharge unobstructed to the open air and not
"impinge on personnel, containers, equipment and adjacent
structures or enter enclosed spaces. Pressure relief device
vent lines shall be installed in such a manner to exclude or
remove moisture and condensation and prevent malfunction
of the pressure relief device because of freezing or ice accu-
mulation.
3203.4 Marking. Cryogenic containers and systems shall be
marked in accordance with Sections 3203.4.1 through
3203.4.6.
3203.4.1 Identification signs. Visible hazard identification
signs in accordance with NFPA 704 shall be provided at
entrances to buildings or areas in which cryogenic fluids are
stored, handled or used.
3203.4.2 Identification of contents. Stationary and porta-
ble containers shall be marked with the name of the gas con-
tained. Stationary above-ground containers shall be
placarded in accordance with Sections 2703.5 and 2703.6.
Portable containers shall be identified in accordance with
CGA C-7.
3203.4.3 Identification of containers. Stationary contain-
ers shall be identified with the manufacturing specification
and maximum allowable working pressure with a perma-
nent nameplate. The nameplate shall be installed on the con-
tainer in an accessible location. The nameplate shall be
marked in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code or DOTn 49 CFR Part 1 .
3203.4.4 Identification of container connections. Con-
tainer inlet and outlet connections, liquid-level limit con- -
trols, valves and pressure gauges shall be identified in
accordance with one of the following: marked with a perma-
nent tag or label identifying their function, or identified by a
schematic drawing which portrays their function and desig-
nates whether they are connected to the vapor or liquid
space of the container. Where a schematic drawing is pro-
vided, it shall be attached to the container and maintained in
a legible condition.
3203.4.5 Identification of piping systems. Piping systems
shall be identified in accordance with ASME A13.1.
3203.4.6 Identification of emergency shutoff valves.
Emergency shutoff valves shall be identified and the loca-
tion shall be clearly visible and indicated by means of a sign.
3203.5 Security. Cryogenic containers and systems shall be
secured against accidental dislodgement and against access by
unauthorized personnel in accordance with Sections 3203.5.1
through 3203.5.4.
3203.5.1 Security of areas. Containers and systems shall
be secured against unauthorized entry and safeguarded in an
approved manner.
3203.5.2 Securing of containers. Stationary containers
shall be secured to foundations in accordance with the Inter-
national Building Code. Portable containers subject to shift-
ing or upset shall be secured. Nesting shall be an acceptable
means of securing containers.
3203.5.3 Securing of vaporizers. Vaporizers, heat
exchangers and similar equipment shall be anchored to a
suitable foundation and its connecting piping shall be suffi-
ciently flexible to provide for the effects of expansion and
contraction due to temperature changes.
3203.5.4 Physical protection. Containers, piping, valves,
pressure relief devices, regulating equipment and other
appurtenances shall be protected against physical damage
and tampering.
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CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
3203.6 Separation from hazardous conditions. Cryogenic
containers and systems in storage or use shall be separated
from materials and conditions which pose exposure hazards to
or from each other in accordance with Sections 3203.6.1
through 3203.6.2.1.
3203.6.1 Stationary containers. Stationary containers shall
be separated from exposure hazards in accordance with the
provisions applicable to the type of fluid contained and the
minimum separation distances indicated in Table 3203.6.1.
TABLE 3203.6.1
SEPARATION OF STATIONARY CONTAINERS FROM
EXPOSURE HAZARDS
EXPOSURE
MINIMUM DISTANCE
(feet)
Buildings, regardless of construction type
1
Wall openings
1
Air intakes
10
Lot lines
5
Places of public assembly
50
Nonambulatory patient areas
50
Combustible materials such as paper,
leaves, weeds, dry grass or debris
15
Other hazardous materials
In accordance with
Chapter 27
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
3203.6.1.1 Point-of-fill connections. Remote transfer
points and fill connection points shall not be positioned
closer to exposures than the minimum distances required
for stationary containers.
3203.6.1.2 Surfaces beneath containers. The surface
of the area on which stationary containers are placed,
including the surface of the area located below the point
where connections are made for the purpose of filling
such containers, shall be compatible with the fluid in the
container.
3203.6.2 Portable containers. Portable containers shall be
separated from exposure hazards in accordance with Table
3203.6.2.
TABLE 3203.6.2
SEPARATION OF PORTABLE CONTAINERS FROM
EXPOSURE HAZARDS
EXPOSURE
MINIMUM DISTANCE
(feet)
Building exits
10
Wall openings
1
Air intakes
10
Lot lines
5
Room or area exits
3
Combustible materials such as paper,
leaves, weeds, dry grass or debris
15
Other hazardous materials
In accordance with
Chapter 27
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
3203.6.2.1 Surfaces beneatli containers. Containers
shall be placed on surfaces that are compatible with the
fluid in the container.
3203.7 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring
and equipment shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code and
Sections 3203.7.1 and 3203.7.2.
3203.7.1 Location. Containers and systems shall not be
located where they could become part of an electrical cir-
cuit.
3203.7.2 Electrical grounding and bonding. Containers
and systems shall not be used for electrical grounding.
When electrical grounding and bonding is required, the sys-
tem shall comply with the ICC Electrical Code. The
grounding system shall be protected against corrosion,
including con-osion caused by stray electric currents.
3203.8 Service and repair. Service, repair, modification or
removal of valves, pressure relief devices or other container
appurtenances, shall comply with Sections 3203.8.1 and
3203.8.2 and the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Sec-
tion VIII or DOTn 49 CFR Part 1.
3203.8.1 Containers. Containers that have been removed
from service shall be handled in an approved manner.
3203.8.2 Systems. Service and repair of systems shall be
performed by trained personnel.
3203.9 Unauthorized use. Containers shall not be used for any
purpose other than to serve as a vessel for containing the prod-
uct which it is designed to contain.
3203.10 Leaks, damage and corrosion. Leaking, damaged or
corroded containers shall be removed from service. Leaking,
damaged or con-oded systems shall be replaced, repaired or
removed in accordance with Section 3203.8.
3203.11 Lighting. When required, lighting, including emer-
gency lighting, shall be provided for fire appliances and operat-
ing facilities such as walkways, control valves and gates
ancillary to stationary containers.
SECTION 3204
STORAGE
3204.1 General. Storage of containers shall comply with this
section.
3204.2 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of containers shall be in
accordance with Sections 3204.2.1 through 3204.2.2.3.
3204.2.1 Stationary containers. Stationary containers
shall be installed in accordance with the provisions appUca-
ble to the type of fluid stored and this section.
3204.2.1.1 Containers. Stationary containers shall com-
ply with Section 3203.1.
3204.2.1.2 Construction of indoor areas. Cryogenic
fluids in stationary containers stored indoors shall be
located in buildings, rooms or areas constructed in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
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281
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
3204.2.1.3 Ventilation. Storage areas for stationary con-
tainers shall be ventilated in accordance with the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
3204.2.2 Portable containers. Indoor storage of portable
containers shall comply with the provisions applicable to
the type of fluid stored and Sections 3204.2.2.1 through
32042.2.3.
3204.2.2.1 Containers. Portable containers shall com-
ply with Section 3203.1.
3204.2.2.2 Construction of indoor areas. Cryogenic
fluids in portable containers stored indoors shall be
stored in buildings, rooms or areas constructed in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
3204.2.2.3 Ventilation. Storage areas shall be ventilated
in accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
3204.3 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of containers shall
be in accordance with Sections 3204.3.1 through 3204.3.2.2.
3204.3.1 Stationary containers. The outdoor storage of
stationary containers shall comply with Section 3203 and
this section.
3204.3.1.1 Location. Stationary containers shall be
located in accordance with Section 3203.6. Containers of
cryogenic fluids shall not be located within diked areas
containing other hazardous materials.
Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary
containers outside of buildings is prohibited within the
limits established by law as the limits of districts in
which such storage is prohibited (see Section 3 of the
Sample Ordinance for Adoption of the International Fire
Code on page v).
3204.3.1.2 Areas subject to flooding. Stationary con-
tainers located in areas subject to flooding shall be
securely anchored or elevated to prevent the containers
from separating from foundations or supports.
3204.3.1.3 Drainage. The area surrounding stationary
containers shall be provided with a means to prevent
accidental discharge of fluids from endangering person-
nel, containers, equipment and adjacent structures or to
enter enclosed spaces. The stationary container shall not
be placed where spilled or discharged fluids will be
retained around the container.
Exception: These provisions shall not apply when it
is determined by the fire code official that the con-
tainer does not constitute a hazard, after consideration
of special features such as crushed rock utilized as a
heat sink, topographical conditions, nature of occu-
pancy, proximity to structures on the same or adjacent
property, and the capacity and construction of con-
tainers and character of fluids to be stored.
3204.3.2 Portable containers. Outdoor storage of portable
containers shall comply with Section 3203 and this section.
3204.3.2.1 Location. Portable containers shall be
located in accordance with Section 3203.6.
3204.3.2.2 Drainage. The area surrounding portable
containers shall be provided with a means to prevent
accidental discharge of fluids from endangering adjacent
containers, buildings, equipment or adjoining property.
Exception: These provisions shall not apply when it
is determined by the fire code official that the con-
tainer does not constitute a hazard.
3204.4 Underground tanks. Underground tanks for the stor-
age of liquid hydrogen shall be in accordance with Sections
3204.4.1 through 3204.5.3.
3204.4.1 Construction. Storage tanks for liquid hydrogen
shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (Section VIII,
Division 1) and shall be vacuum jacketed in accordance
with Section 3204.5.
3204.4.2 Location. Storage tanks shall be located outside in
accordance with the following:
1 . Tanks and associated equipment shall be located with
respect to foundations and supports of other struc-
tures such that the loads carried by the latter cannot be
transmitted to the tank.
2. The distance from any part of the tank to the nearest
wall of a basement, pit, cellar or lot line shall not be
less than 3 feet (914 mm).
3. A minimum distance of 1 foot (1525 mm), shell to
shell, shall be maintained between underground
tanks.
3204.4.3 Depth, cover and fill. The tank shall be buried
such that the top of the vacuum jacket is covered with a min-
imum of 1 foot (305 mm) of earth and with concrete a mini-
mum of 4 inches (102 mm) thick placed over the earthen
cover. The concrete shall extend a minimum of 1 foot (305
mm) horizontally beyond the footprint of the tank in all
directions. Underground tanks shall be set on firm founda-
tions constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code and surrounded with at least 6 inches (152
mm) of noncorrosive inert material, such as sand.
Exception: The vertical extension of the vacuum jacket
as required for service connections.
3204.4.4 Anchorage and security. Tanks and systems shall
be secured against accidental dislodgement in accordance
with this chapter.
3204.4.5 Venting of underground tanks. Vent pipes for
underground storage tanks shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 2209.5.4 and 3203.3.
3204.4.6 Underground liquid hydrogen piping. Under-
ground liquid hydrogen piping shall be vacuum jacketed or
protected by approved means and designed in accordance
with this chapter.
3204.4.7 Overfill protection and prevention systems. An
approved means or method shall be provided to prevent the
overfill of all storage tanks.
3204.5 Vacuum jacket construction. The vacuum jacket shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with Section VIII of
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and shall be designed
282
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
d
to withstand the anticipated loading, including loading from
vehicular traffic, where applicable. Portions of the vacuum
jacket installed below grade shall be designed to withstand
anticipated soil, seismic and hydrostatic loading.
3204.5.1 Material. The vacuum jacket shall be constructed
of stainless steel or other approved corrosion-resistant
material.
3204.5.2 Corrosion protection. The vacuum jacket shall
be protected by approved or listed corrosion-resistant mate-
rials or an engineered cathodic protection system. Where
cathodic protection is utilized, an approved maintenance
schedule shall be established. Exposed components shall be
inspected at least twice a year. Maintenance and inspection
events shall be recorded and those records shall be main-
tained on the premises for a minimum of three years and
made available to the fire code official upon request.
3204.5.3 Vacuum level monitoring. An approved method
shall be provided to indicate loss of vacuum within the vac-
uum jacket(s).
SECTION 3205
USE AND HANDLING
3205.1 General. Use and handling of cryogenic fluid contain-
ers and systems shall comply with Sections 3205.1.1 through
3205.5.2.
3205.1.1 Cryogenic fluid systems. Cryogenic fluid sys-
tems shall be suitable for the use intended and designed by
persons competent in such design. Equipment, machinery
and processes shall be listed or approved.
3205.1.2 Piping systems. Piping, tubing, valves and joints
and fittings conveying cryogenic fluids shall be installed in
accordance with the material-specific provisions of Sec-
tions 3201.1 and 3205.1.2.1 through 3205.1.2.6.
3205.1.2.1 Design and construction. Piping systems
shall be suitable for the use intended through the full
range of pressure and temperature to which they will be
subjected. Piping systems shall be designed and con-
structed to provide adequate allowance for expansion,
contraction, vibration, settlement and fire exposure.
3205.1.2.2 Joints. Joints on container piping and tubing
shall be threaded, welded, silver brazed or flanged.
3205.1.2.3 Valves and accessory equipment. Valves
and accessory equipment shall be suitable for the
intended use at the temperatures of the application and
shall be designed and constructed to withstand the maxi-
mum pressure at the minimum temperature to which they
will be subjected.
3205.1.2.3.1 Shutoff valves on containers. Shutoff
valves shall be provided on all container connections
except for pressure relief devices. Shutoff valves shall
be provided with access thereto and located as close
as practical to the container.
3205.1.2.3.2 Shutoff valves on piping. Shutoff
valves shall be installed in piping containing cryo-
genic fluids where needed to limit the volume of liq-
uid discharged in the event of piping or equipment
failure. Pressure relief valves shall be installed where
liquid is capable of being trapped between shut-
off- valves in the piping system (see Section 3203.2).
3205.1.2.4 Physical protection and support. Piping |
systems shall be supported and protected from physical
damage. Piping passing through walls shall be protected
from mechanical damage.
3205.1.2.5 Corrosion protection. Above-ground pip-
ing that is subject to corrosion because of exposure to
corrosive atmospheres, shall be constructed of materials
to resist the corrosive environment or otherwise pro-
tected against corrosion. Below-ground piping shall be
protected against corrosion.
3205.1.2.6 Testing. Piping systems shall be tested and
proven free of leaks after installation as required by the
standards to which they were designed and constructed.
Test pressures shall not be less than 150 percent of the
maximum allowable working pressure when hydraulic
testing is conducted or 110 percent when testing is con-
ducted pneumatically.
3205.2 Indoor use. Indoor use of cryogenic fluids shall com-
ply with the material-specific provisions of Section 3201.1.
3205.3 Outdoor use. Outdoor use of cryogenic fluids shall
comply with the material specific provisions of Sections
3201.1, 3205.3.1 and 3205.3.2.
3205.3.1 Separation. Distances from property lines, build-
ings and exposure hazards shall comply with Section
3203.6 and the material specific provisions of Section
3201.1.
3205.3.2 Emergency shutoff valves. Manual or automatic I
emergency shutoff valves shall be provided to shut off the I
cryogenic fluid supply in case of emergency. An emergency |
shutoff valve shall be located at the source of supply and at
the point where the system enters the building.
3205.4 Filling and dispensing. Filling and dispensing of cryo-
genic fluids shall comply with Sections 3205.4.1 through
3205.4.3.
3205.4.1 Dispensing areas. Dispensing of cryogenic fluids
with physical or health hazards shall be conducted in
approved locations. Dispensing indoors shall be conducted
in areas constructed in accordance with the International
Building Code.
3205.4.1.1 Ventilation. Indoor areas where cryogenic
fluids are dispensed shall be ventilated in accordance
with the requirements of the International Mechanical
Code in a manner that captures any vapor at the point of
generation.
Exception: Cryogenic fluids that can be demon-
strated not to create harmful vapors.
3205.4.1.2 Piping systems. Piping systems utilized for
filling or dispensing of cryogenic fluids shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with Section
3205.1.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
283
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
3205.4.2 Vehicle loading and unloading areas. Loading
or unloading areas shall be conducted in an approved man-
ner in accordance with the standards referenced in Section
3201.1.
3205.4.3 Limit controls. Limit controls shall be provided to
prevent overfilling of stationary containers during filling
operations.
3205.5 Handling. Handling of cryogenic containers shall
comply with Sections 3205.5.1 and 3205.5.2.
3205.5.1 Carts and trucks. Cryogenic containers shall be
moved using an approved method. Where cryogenic con-
tainers are moved by hand cart, hand truck or other mobile
device, such carts, trucks or devices shall be designed for the
secure movement of the container.
Carts and trucks used to transport cryogenic containers
shall be designed to provide a stable base for the commodi-
ties to be transported and shall have a means of restraining
containers to prevent accidental dislodgement.
3205.5.2 Closed containers. Pressurized containers shall
be transported in a closed condition. Containers designed
for use at atmospheric conditions shall be transported with
appropriate loose fitting covers in place to prevent spillage.
284 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 33
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
SECTION 3301
GENERAL
3301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the
possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of
explosives, explosive materials, fireworks and small arms
ammunition.
Exceptions:
1 . The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard
or National Guard.
2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United
States Pharmacopoeia.
3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammu-
nition when packaged in accordance with DOTn
packaging requirements.
4. The possession, storage, and use of not more than 1
pound (0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured
sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless
powder and 10,000 small arms primers for hand load-
ing of small arms ammunition for personal consump-
tion.
5. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and
local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies
acting in their official capacities.
6. Special industrial explosive devices which in the
aggregate contain less than 50 pounds (23 kg) of
explosive materials.
7. The possession, storage and use of blank indus-
trial-power load cartridges when packaged in accor-
dance with DOTn packaging regulations.
8. Transportation in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR
Parts 100-178.
9. Items preempted by federal regulations.
3301.1.1 Explosive material standard. In addition to the
requirements of this chapter, NFPA 495 shall govern the
manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use
of explosive materials.
3301.1.2 Explosive material terminals. In addition to the
requirements of this chapter, the operation of explosive
material terminals shall conform to the provisions of NFPA
498.
3301.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, stor-
age, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in
Section 3304.
2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as
allowed in Section 3305.
3. The use of fireworks for display as allowed in Sec-
tion 3308.
4. The possession, storage, sale, handling and use of
specific types of Division 1 .4G fireworks where
allowed by applicable laws, ordinances and regu-
lations, provided such fireworks comply with,
CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1500 and 1507, and DOTn 49
CFR, Parts 100-178, for consumer fireworks.
3301.1.4 Rocketry. The storage, handling and use of model
and high-power rockets shall comply with the requirements
of NFPA 1122, NFPA 1125, and NFPA 1127.
3301.1.5 Ammonium nitrate. The storage and handling of
ammonium nitrate shall comply with the requirements of
NFPA 490 and Chapter 40.
Exception: Storage of ammonium nitrate in magazines
with blasting agents shall comply with the requirements
of NFPA 495.
3301.2 Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth
in Section 105.6 and regulated in accordance with this section.
3301.2.1 Residential uses. No person shall keep or store,
nor shall any permit be issued to keep or store, any explo-
sives at any place of habitation, or within 100 feet (30 480
mm) thereof.
Exception: Storage of smokeless propellahtvblack pow-
der, and small arms primers for personal use and not for
resale in accordance with Section 3306.
3301.2.2 Sale and retail display. No person shall construct
a retail display nor offer for sale explosives, explosive mate-
rials, or fireworks upon highways, sidewalks, public prop-
erty, or in Group A or E occupancies.
3301.2.3 Permit restrictions. The fire code official is
authorized to limit the quantity of explosives, explosive
materials, or fireworks permitted at a given location. No per-
son, possessing a permit for storage of explosives at any
place, shall keep or store an amount greater than authorized
in such permit. Only the kind of explosive specified in such
a permit shall be kept or stored.
3301.2.4 Financial responsibility. Before a permit is
issued, as required by Section 3301 .2, the apphcant shall file
with the jurisdiction a corporate surety bond in the principal
sum of $ 1 00,000 or a public liability insurance policy for the
same amount, for the purpose of the payment of all damages
to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by,
the conduct of any act authorized by the permit upon which
any judicial judgment results. The fire code official is autho-
rized to specify a greater or lesser amount when, in his or her
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
285
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
Opinion, conditions at the location of use indicate a greater
or lesser amount is required. Government entities shall be
exempt from this bond requirement.
3301.2.4.1 Blasting. Before approval to do blasting is
issued, the applicant for approval shall file a bond or sub-
mit a certificate of insurance in such form, amount and
coverage as determined by the legal department of the
jurisdiction to be adequate in each case to indemnify the
jurisdiction against any and all damages arising from
permitted blasting.
3301.2.4.2 Fireworks display. The permit holder shall
furnish a bond or certificate of insurance in an amount
deemed adequate by the fire code official for the pay-
ment of all potential damages to a person or persons or to
property by reason of the permitted display, and arising
from any acts of the permit holder, the agent, employees
or subcontractors.
3301.3 Prohibited explosives. Permits shall not be issued or
renewed for possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale
or use of the following materials and such materials currently
in storage or use shall be disposed of in an approved manner.
1 . Liquid nitroglycerin.
2. Dynamite containing more than 60-percent liquid
explosive ingredient.
3. Dynamite having an unsatisfactory absorbent or one
that permits leakage of a liquid explosive ingredient
under any conditions liable to exist during storage.
4. Nitrocellulose in a dry and uncompressed condition in
a quantity greater than 10 pounds (4.54 kg) of net
weight in one package.
5. Fulminate of mercury in a dry condition and fulminate
of all other metals in any condition except as a compo-
nent of manufactured articles not hereinafter forbid-
den.
6. Explosive compositions that ignite spontaneously or
undergo marked decomposition, rendering the prod-
ucts of their use more hazardous, when subjected for 48
consecutive hours or less to a temperature of 167°F
(75°C).
7. New explosive materials until approved by DOTn,
except that permits are allowed to be issued to educa-
tional, governmental or industrial laboratories for
instructional or research purposes.
8. Explosive materials condemned by DOTn.
9. Explosive materials containing an ammonium salt and
a chlorate.
10. Explosives not packed or marked as required by DOTn
49 CFR, Parts 100-178.
Exception: Gelatin dynamite.
3301.4 Qualifications. Persons in charge of magazines, blast-
ing, fireworks display, or pyrotechnic special effect operations
shall not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs which
impair sensory or motor skills, shall be at least 21 years of age,
and shall demonstrate knowledge of all safety precautions
related to the storage, handling or use of explosives, explosive
materials or fireworks.
3301.5 Supervision. The fire code official is authorized to
require operations permitted under the provisions of Section
3301 .2 to be supervised at any time by the fire code official in
order to determine compliance with all safety and fire regula-
tions.
3301.6 Notification. Whenever a new explosive material stor-
age or manufacturing site is established, including a temporary
job site, the local law enforcement agency, fire department, and
local emergency planning committee shall be notified 48 hours
in advance, not including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, of
the type, quantity and location of explosive materials at the site.
3301.7 Seizure. The fire code official is authorized to remove
or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner,
at the expense of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or
fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used
in violation of this chapter.
3301.8 Establishment of quantity of explosives and dis-
tances. The quantity of explosives and distances shall be in
accordance with Sections 3301.8.1 and 3301.8.1.1.
3301.8.1 Quantity of explosives. The quantity-distance
(Q-D) tables in Sections 3304.5 and 3305.3 shall be used to
provide the minimum separation distances from potential
explosion sites as set forth in Tables 3301.8.1(1) through
3301 .8. 1(3). The classification and the weight of the explo-
sives are primary characteristics governing the use of these
tables. The net explosive weight shall be determined in
accordance with Sections 3301.8.1.1 through 3301.8.1.4.
3301.8.1.1 Mass-detonating explosives. The total net
explosive weight of Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.5 explosives
shall be used. See Table 3304.5.2(2) or Table 3305.3 as
appropriate.
Exception: When the TNT equivalence of the explo-
sive material has been determined, the equivalence is
allowed to be used to establish the net explosive
weight.
3301.8.1.2 Nonmass-detonating explosives (exclud-
ing Division 1.4). Nonmass-detonating explosives shall
be as follows:
1. Division 1.3 propellants. The total weight of the
propellants alone shall be the net explosive weight.
The net weight of propellant shall be used. See
Table 3304.5.2(3).
2. Combinations of bulk metal powder and pyrotech-
nic compositions. The sum of the net weights of
metal powders and pyrotechnic compositions in
the containers shall be the net explosive weight.
See Table 3304.5.2(3).
286
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3301.8.1(1)
APPLICATION OF SEPARATION DISTANCE (Q-D) TABLES— DIVISION 1.1,
1.2 AND 1.5 EXPLOSIVES«'''=
ITEM
MAGAZINE
Q-D
OPERATING
BUILDING
Q-D
INHABITED
BUILDING
Q-D
PUBLIC
TRAFFIC
ROUTE
Q-D
Magazine
Table
3304.5.2(2)
IMD
Table
3305.3
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(2)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(2)
PTR
Operating
Building
Table
3304.5.2(2)
ILD or IPD
Table
3305.3
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(2)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(2)
PTR
Inhabited
Building
Table
3304.5.2(2)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(2)
IBD
NA
NA
NA
NA
Public Traffic
Route
Table
3304.5.2(2)
PTR
Table
3304.5.2(2)
PTR
NA
NA
NA
NA
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. The minimum separation distance (D^) shall be a minimum of 60 feet. Where a building or magazine containing explosives is barricaded, the minimum distance
shall be 30 feet.
b. Linear interpolation between tabular values in the referenced Q-D tables shall not be allowed. Nonlinear interpolation of the values shall be allowed subject to an
approved technical opinion and report prepared in accordance with Section 104.7.2.
c. For definitions of Quantity-Distance abbreviations IBD, ILD, IMD, IPD and PTR, see Section 3302.1.
TABLE 3301 .8.1 (2)
APPLICATION OF SEPARATION DISTANCE (Q-D) TABLES— DIVISION 1.3 EXPLOSIVES^"'
ITEM
MAGAZINE
Q-D
OPERATING
BUILDING
Q-D
INHABITED
BUILDING
Q-D
PUBLIC
TRAFFIC
ROUTE
Q-D
Magazine
Table
3304.5.2(3)
IMD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
PTR
Operating
Building
Table
3304.5.2(3)
ILD or
IPD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
ILDorlPD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
PTR
Inhabited
Building
Table
3304.5.2(3)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(3)
IBD
NA
NA
NA
NA
Public Traffic
Route
Table
3304.5.2(3)
PTR
Table
3304.5.2(3)
PTR
^ NA
NA
NA
NA
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. The minimum separation distance (D^) shall be a minimum of 50 feet.
b. Linear interpolation between tabular values in the referenced Q-D table shall be allowed.
c. For definitions of Quantity-Distance abbreviations IBD, ILD, IMD, IPD and PTR, see Section 3302.1.
TABLE 3301.8.1(3)
APPLICATION OF SEPARATION DISTANCE (Q-D) TABLES— DIVISION 1.4 EXPLOSIVES^ "■=
ITEM
MAGAZINE
Q-D
OPERATING
BUILDING
Q-D
INHABITED
BUILDING
Q-D
PUBLIC
TRAFFIC
ROUTE
Q-D
Magazine
Table
3304.5.2(4)
IMD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
PTR
Operating
Building
Table
3304.5.2(4)
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
ILD or IPD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
PTR
Inhabited
Building
Table
3304.5.2(4)
IBD
Table
3304.5.2(4)
IBD
NA
NA
NA
NA
Public Traffic
Route
Table
3304.5.2(4)
PTR
Table
3304.5.2(4)
PTR
NA
NA
NA
NA
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. The minimum separation distance (D^) shall be a minimum of 50 feet.
b. Linear interpolation between tabular values in the referenced Q-D table shall not be allowed.
c. For definitions of Quantity-Distance abbreviations IBD, ILD, IMD, IPD and PTR, see Section 3302.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
287
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
3301.8.1.3 Combinations of mass-detonating and
nonmass-detonating explosives (excluding Division
1.4). Combination of mass-detonating and nonmass-det-
onating explosives shall be as follows:
1. When Division 1.1 and 1.2 explosives are located
in the same site, determine the distance for the total
quantity considered first as 1 . 1 and then as 1 .2. The
required distance is the greater of the two. When
the Division 1.1 requirements are controlling and
the TNT equivalence of the 1 .2 is known, the TNT
equivalent weight of the 1.2 items shall be allowed
to be added to the total explosive weight of Divi-
sion 1.1 items to determine the net explosive
weight for Division 1.1 distance determination.
See Table 3304.5.2(3) or Table 3305.3 as appro-
priate.
2. When Division 1.1 and 1.3 explosives are located
in the same site, determine the distances for the
total quantity considered first as 1.1 and then as
1 .3. The required distance is the greater of the two.
When the Division 1.1 requirements are control-
ling and the TNT equivalence of the 1.3 is known,
the TNT equivalent weight of the 1 .3 items shall be
allowed to be added to the total explosive weight
of Division 1 . 1 items to determine the net explo-
sive weight for Division 1 . 1 distance determina-
tion. See Table 3304.5.2(2), 3304.5.2(3) or
3305.3, as appropriate.
3. When Division 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 explosives are
located in the same site, determine the distances
for the total quantity considered first as 1 . 1 , next as
1.2 and finally as 1.3. The required distance is the
greatest of the three. As allowed by paragraphs 1
and 2 above, TNT equivalent weights for 1.2 and
1.3 items are allowed to be used to determine the
net weight of explosives for Division 1 . 1 distance
determination. Table 3304.5.2(2) or 3305.3 shall
be used when TNT equivalency is used to establish
the net explosive weight.
4. For composite pyrotechnic items Division 1.1 and
Division 1.3, the sum of the net weights of the
pyrotechnic composition and the explosives
involved shall be used. See Tables 3304.5.2(2) and
3304.5.2(3).
3301.8.1.4 Moderate fire — no blast hazards. Division
1 .4 explosives. The total weight of the explosive material
alone is the net weight. The net weight of the explosive
material shall be used.
SECTION 3302
DEFINITIONS
3302.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
AMMONIUM NITRATE. A chemical compound repre-
sented by the formula NH4NO3.
BARRICADE. A structure that consists of a combination of
walls, floor and roof, which is designed to withstand the rapid
release of energy in an explosion and which is fully confined,
partially vented or fully vented; or other effective method of
shielding from explosive materials by a natural or artificial bar-
rier.
Artificial barricade. An artificial mound or revetment a
minimum thickness of 3 feet (914 mm).
Natural barricade. Natural features of the ground, such as
hills, or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding
exposures that require protection cannot be seen from the
magazine or building containing explosives when the trees
are bare of leaves.
BARRICADED. The effective screening of a building con-
taining explosive materials from the magazine or other build-
ing, railway, or highway by a natural or an artificial barrier. A
straight line from the top of any sidewall of the building con-
taining explosive materials to the eave line of any magazine or
other building or to a point 12 feet (3658 nun) above the center
of a railway or highway shall pass through such barrier.
BLAST AREA. The area including the blast site and the
immediate adjacent area within the influence of flying rock,
missiles and concussion.
BLAST SITE. The area in which explosive materials are being
or have been loaded and which includes all holes loaded or to
be loaded for the same blast and a distance of 50 feet (15 240
mm) in all directions.
BLASTER. A person qualified in accordance with Section
3301.4 to be in charge of and responsible for the loading and
firing of a blast.
BLASTING AGENT. A material or mixture consisting of fuel
and oxidizer, intended for blasting provided that the finished
product, as mixed for use or shipment, cannot be detonated by
means of a No. 8 test detonator when unconfined. Blasting
agents are labeled and placarded as Class 1 .5 material by US
DOTn.
BULLET RESISTANT. Constructed so as to resist penetra-
tion of a bullet of 1 50-grain M2 ball ammunition having a nom-
inal muzzle velocity of 2,700 feet per second (fps) (824 mps)
when fired from a 30-caliber rifle at a distance of 100 feet (30
480 mm), measured perpendicular to the target.
DETONATING CORD. A flexible cord containing a center
core of high explosive used to initiate other explosives.
DETONATION. An exothermic reaction characterized by the
presence of a shock wave in the material which establishes and
maintains the reaction. The reaction zone progresses through
the material at a rate greater than the velocity of sound. The
principal heating mechanism is one of shock compression.
Detonations have an explosive effect.
DETONATOR. A device containing any initiating or primary
explosive that is used for initiating detonation. A detonator
shall not contain more than 154.32 grains (10 grams) of total
explosives by weight, excluding ignition or delay charges. The
term includes, but is not limited to, electric blasting caps of
instantaneous and delay types, blasting caps for use with safety
fuses, detonating cord delay connectors, and noninstantaneous
288
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
and delay blasting caps which use detonating cord, shock tube
or any other replacement for electric leg wires. All types of det-
onators in strengths through No. 8 cap should be rated at 1 .5
pounds (0.68 kg) of explosives per 1,000 caps. For strengths
higher than No. 8 cap, consult the manufacturer.
DISCHARGE SITE. The immediate area surrounding the
fireworks mortars used for an outdoor fireworks display.
DISPLAY SITE. The inmiediate area where a fireworks dis-
play is conducted. The display area includes the discharge site,
the fallout area, and the required separation distance from the
mortars to spectator viewing areas. The display area does not
include spectator viewing areas or vehicle parking areas.
EXPLOSIVE. A chemical compound, mixture or device, the
primary or common purpose of which is to function by explo-
sion. The term includes, but is not limited to, dynamite, black
powder, pellet powder, initiating explosives, detonators, safety
fuses, squibs, detonating cord, igniter cord, igniters and display
fireworks, 1.3G (Class B, Special).
The term "explosive" includes any material determined to be
within the scope of USC Title 18: Chapter 40 and also includes
any material classified as an explosive other than consumer
fireworks, 1 .4G (Class C, Common) by the hazardous materi-
als regulations of DOTn 49 CFR.
High explosive. Explosive material, such as dynamite,
which can be caused to detonate by means of a No. 8 test
blasting cap when unconfined.
Low explosive. Explosive material that will bum or defla-
grate when ignited. It is characterized by a rate of reaction
that is less than the speed of sound. Examples of low explo-
sives include, but are not limited to, black powder, safety
fuse, igniters, igniter cord, fuse lighters, fireworks, 1.3G
(Class B special) and propellants, 1.3C.
Mass-detonating explosives. Division 1.1, 1.2 and 1.5
explosives alone or in combination, or loaded into various
types of anmiunition or containers, most of which can be
expected to explode virtually instantaneously when a small
portion is subjected to fire, severe concussion, impact, the
impulse of an initiating agent, or the effect of a considerable
discharge of energy from without. Materials that react in
this manner represent a mass explosion hazard. Such an
explosive will normally cause severe structural damage to
adjacent objects. Explosive propagation could occur imme-
diately to other items of ammunition and explosives stored
sufficiently close to and not adequately protected from the
initially exploding pile with a time interval short enough so
that two or more quantities must be considered as one for
quantity-distance purposes.
UN/DOTn Class 1 explosives. The former classification
system used by DOTn included the terms "high" and "low"
explosives as defined herein. The following terms further
define explosives under the current system applied by
DOTn for all explosive materials defined as hazard Class 1
materials. Compatibility group letters are used in concert
with the Division to specify further limitations on each divi-
sion noted, (i.e., the letter G identifies the material as a pyro-
technic substance or article containing a pyrotechnic sub-
stance and similar materials).
Division 1.1. Explosives that have a mass explosion haz-
ard. A mass explosion is one which affects almost the
entire load instantaneously.
Division 1.2. Explosives that have a projection hazard
but not a mass explosion hazard.
Division 1.3. Explosives that have a fire hazard and
either a minor blast hazard or a minor projection hazard
or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.
Division 1.4. Explosives that pose a minor explosion
hazard. The explosive effects are largely confined to the
package and no projection of fragments of appreciable
size or range is to be expected. An external fire must not
cause virtually instantaneous explosion of almost the
entire contents of the package.
Division 1.5. Very insensitive explosives. This division
is comprised of substances that have a mass explosion
hazard but which are so insensitive that there is very little
probability of initiation or of transition from burning to
detonation under normal conditions of transport.
Division 1.6. Extremely insensitive articles which do not
have amass explosion hazard. This division is comprised
of articles that contain only extremely insensitive deto-
nating substances and which demonstiate a negligible
probability of accidental initiation or propagation.
EXPLOSIVE MATERIAL. The term "explosive" material
means explosives, blasting agents, and detonators.
FALLOUT AREA. The area over which aerial shells are fired.
The shells burst over the area, and unsafe debris and malfunc-
tioning aerial shells fall into this area. The fallout area is the
location where a typical aerial shell dud falls to the ground
depending on the wind and the angle of mortar placement.
FIREWORKS. Any composition or device for the purpose of
producing a visible or an audible effect for entertainment pur-
poses by combustion, deflagration or detonation that meets the
definition of 1.4G fireworks or 1.3G fireworks as set forth
herein.
Fireworks, 1.4G. (Formerly known as Class C, Common
Fireworks.) Small fireworks devices containing restricted
amounts of pyrotechnic composition designed primarily to
produce visible or audible effects by combustion. Such
1 .4G fireworks which comply with the construction, chemi-
cal composition and labeling regulations of the DOTn for
Fireworks, UN 0336, and the U.S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission as set forth in CPSC 16 CFR: Parts
1500 and 1507, are not explosive materials for the purpose
of this code.
Fireworks, 1.3G. (Formerly Class B, Special Fireworks.)
Large fireworks devices, which are explosive materials,
intended for use in fireworks displays and designed to pro-
duce audible or visible efl"ects by combustion, deflagration
or detonation. Such 1 .3G fireworks include, but are not lim-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
289
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
ited to, firecrackers containing more than 130 milligrams (2
grains) of explosive composition, aerial shells containing
more than 40 grams of pyrotechnic composition, and other
display pieces which exceed the limits for classification as
1.4G fireworks. Such 1.3G fireworks, are also described as
Fireworks, UN0335 by the DOTn.
FIREWORKS DISPLAY. A presentation of fireworks for a
public or private gathering.
HIGHWAY. A public street, public alley or public road.
INHABITED BUILDING. A building regularly occupied in
whole or in part as a habitation for people, or any place of reli-
gious worship, schoolhouse, railroad station, store or other
structure where people are accustomed to assemble, except any
building or structure occupied in connection with the manufac-
ture, transportation, storage or use of explosive materials.
MAGAZINE. A building, structure or container, other than an
operating building, approved for storage of explosive materi-
als.
Indoor. A portable structure, such as a box, bin or other con-
tainer, constructed as required for Type 2, 4 or 5 magazines
in accordance with NFPA 495, NFPA 1124 or DOTy 27
CFR Part 55 so as to be fire resistant and theft resistant.
Type 1. A permanent structure, such as a building or igloo,
that is bullet resistant, fire resistant, theft resistant, weather
resistant and ventilated in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 495, NFPA 1 124, or DOTy 27 CFR Part 55.
Type 2. A portable or mobile structure, such as a box,
skid-magazine, trailer or semitrailer, constructed in accor-
dance with the requirements of NFPA 495, NFPA 1 124 or
DOTy 27 CFR, Part 55 that is fire resistant, theft resistant,
weather resistant and ventilated. If used outdoors, a Type 2
magazine is also bullet resistant.
Type 3. A fire-resistant, theft-resistant and weather-resis-
tant "day box" or portable structure constructed in accor-
dance with NFPA 495, NFPA 1 124, or DOTy 27 CFR Part
55 used for the temporary storage of explosive materials.
Type 4. A permanent, portable or mobile structure such as a
building, igloo, box, semitrailer or other mobile container
that is fire resistant, theft resistant and weather resistant and
constructed in accordance with NFPA 495, NFPA 1 124, or
DOTy 27 CFR, Part 55.
Type 5. A permanent, portable or mobile structure such as a
building, igloo, box, bin, tank, semitrailer, bulk trailer, tank
trailer, bulk truck, tank truck or other mobile container that
is theft resistant, which is constructed in accordance with
NFPA 495, NFPA 1124, or DOTy 27 CFR, Part 55.
MORTAR. A tube from which fireworks shells are fired into
the air.
NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT (net weight). The weight of
explosive material expressed in pounds. The net explosive
weight is the aggregate amount of explosive material contained
within buildings, magazines, structures or portions thereof,
used to establish quantity-distance relationships.
OPERATING BUILDING. A building occupied in conjunc-
tion with the manufacture, transportation, or use of explosive
materials. Operating buildings are separated from one another
with the use of intraplant or intraline distances.
OPERATING LINE. A group of buildings, faciUties or
workstations so arranged as to permit performance of the steps
in the manufacture of an explosive or in the loading, assembly,
modification and maintenance of ammunition or devices con-
taining explosive materials.
PLOSOPHORIC MATERIAL. Two or more unmixed, com-
mercially manufactured, prepackaged chemical substances
including oxidizers, flammable liquids or solids, or similar
substances that are not independently classified as explosives
but which, when mixed or combined, form an explosive that is
intended for blasting.
PROXIMATE AUDIENCE. An audience closer to pyrotech-
nic devices than allowed by NFPA 1 123.
PUBLIC TRAFFIC ROUTE (PTR). Any public street, road,
highway, navigable stream or passenger railroad that is used for
through traffic by the general public.
PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION. A chemical mixture
that produces visible light displays or sounds through a
self-propagating, heat-releasing chemical reaction which is
initiated by ignition.
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL EFFECT. A visible or audible
effect for entertainment created through the use of pyrotechnic
materials and devices.
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL-EFFECT MATERIAL. A
chemical mixture used in the entertainment industry, to pro-
duce visible or audible effects by combustion, deflagration or
detonation. Such a chemical mixture predominantly consists of
solids capable of producing a controlled, self-sustaining and
self-contained exothermic chemical reaction that results in
heat, gas sound, light or a combination of these effects. The
chemical reaction functions without external oxygen.
QUANTITY-DISTANCE (Q-D). The quantity of explosive
material and separation distance relationships providing pro-
tection. These relationships are based on levels of risk consid-
ered acceptable for the stipulated exposures and are tabulated
in the appropriate Q-D tables. The separation distances speci-
fied afford less than absolute safety:
Minimum separation distance (DJ. The minimum sepa-
ration distance between adjacent buildings occupied in con-
junction with the manufacture, transportation, storage or
use of explosive materials where one of the buildings con-
tains explosive materials and the other building does not.
Intraline distance (ILD) or Intraplant distance (IPD).
The distance to be maintained between any two operating
buildings on an explosives manufacturing site when at least
one contains or is designed to contain explosives, or the dis-
tance between a magazine and an operating building.
Inhabited building distance (IBD). The minimum separa-
tion distance between an operating building or magazine
containing explosive materials and an inhabited building or
site boundary.
Intermagazine distance (IMD). The minimum separation
distance between magazines.
290
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
RAILWAY. A steam, electric or other railroad or railway that
carriers passengers for hire.
READY BOX. A weather-resistant container with a self-clos-
ing or automatic-closing cover that protects fireworks shells
from burning debris. Tarpaulins shall not be considered as
ready boxes.
SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION. A shotgun, rifle or pistol
cartridge and any cartridge for propellant-actuated devices.
This definition does not include military ammunition contain-
ing bursting charges or incendiary, trace, spotting or pyrotech-
nic projectiles.
SMALL ARMS PRIMERS. Small percussion-sensitive
explosive charges, encased in a cap, used to ignite propellant
powder.
SMOKELESS PROPELLANTS. Solid propellants, com-
monly referred to as smokeless powders, used in small arms
ammunition, cannons, rockets, propellant-actuated devices
and similar articles.
SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL EXPLOSIVE DEVICE. An
explosive power pack containing an explosive charge in the
form of a cartridge or construction device. The term includes
but is not limited to explosive rivets, explosive bolts, explosive
charges for driving pins or studs, cartridges for explosive-actu-
ated power tools and charges of explosives used in automotive
air bag inflators, jet tapping of open hearth furnaces and jet per-
foration of oil well casings.
THEFT RESISTANT. Construction designed to deter illegal
entry into facilities for the storage of explosive materials.
SECTION 3303
RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING
3303.1 General. Records of the receipt, handling, use or dis-
posal of explosive materials, and reports of any accidents,
thefts, or unauthorized activities involving explosive materials
shall conform to the requirements of this section.
3303.2 Transaction record. The permittee shall maintain a
record of all transactions involving receipt, removal, use or dis-
posal of explosive materials. Such a record shall be maintained
for a period of five years, and shall be furnished to the fire code
official for inspection upon request.
Exception: Where only Division 1.4G (consumer fire-
works) are handled, records need only be maintained for a
period of three years.
3303.3 Loss, theft or unauthorized removal. The loss, theft
or unauthorized removal of explosive materials from a maga-
zine or permitted facility shall be reported to the fire code offi-
cial, local law enforcement authorities, and the U.S.
Department of Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Fire-
arms within 24 hours.
Exception: Loss of Division 1.4G (consumer fireworks)
need not be reported to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms.
3303.4 Accidents. Accidents involving the use of explosives,
explosive materials and fireworks, which result in injuries or
property damage, shall be reported to the fire code official
immediately.
3303.5 Misfires. The pyrotechnic display operator or blaster in
charge shall keep a record of all aerial shells that fail to fire or
charges that fail to detonate.
3303.6 Hazard communication. Manufacturers of explosive
materials and fireworks shall maintain records of chemicals,
chemical compounds and mixtures required by DDL 29 CFR,
Part 1910.1200, and Section 407.
3303.7 Safety rules. Current safety rules covering the opera-
tion of magazines, as described in Section 3304.7, shall be
posted on the interior of the magazine in a visible location.
SECTION 3304
EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
STORAGE AND HANDLING
3304.1 General. Storage of explosives and explosive materi-
als, small arms ammunition, small arms primers, propel-
lant-actuated cartridges and smokeless propellants in
magazines, shall comply with the provisions of this section.
3304.2 Magazine required. Explosives and explosive materi-
als, and Division 1.3G fireworks shall be stored in magazines
constructed, located, operated and maintained in accordance
with the provisions of Section 3304 and NFPA 495 or NFPA
1124.
Exceptions:
1 . Storage of fireworks at display sites in accordance
with Section 3308.5 and NFPA 1 123 or NFPA 1 126.
2. Portable or mobile magazines not exceeding 120
square feet (11 m^) in area shall not be required to
comply with the requirements of the International
Building Code.
3304.3 Magazines. The storage of explosives and explosive
materials in magazines shall comply with Table 3304.3.
3304.3.1 High explosives. Explosive materials classified as
Division 1.1 or 1.2 or formerly classified as Class A by the
U.S. Department of Transportation shall be stored in Type 1 ,
2 or 3 magazines.
Exceptions:
1 . Black powder shall be stored in a Type 1 , 2, 3 or 4
magazine.
2. Cap-sensitive explosive material that is demon-
strated not to be bullet sensitive, shall be stored in a
Type 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 magazine.
3304.3.2 Low explosives. Explosive materials that are not
cap sensitive shall be stored in a Type 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 maga-
zine.
3304.3.3 Detonating cord. For quantity and distance pur-
poses, detonating cord of 50 grains per foot shall be calcu-
lated as equivalent to 8 pounds (4 kg) of high explosives per
1,000 feet (305 m). Heavier or lighter core loads shall be
rated proportionally.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
291
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3304.3
STORAGE AMOUNTS AND MAGAZINE REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPLOSIVES, EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS AND
FIREWORKS, 1.3G MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA
NEW UN/
DOTn
DIVISION
OLD DOTn
CLASS
ATF/OSHA
CLASS
INDOORS (pounds)
OUTDOOR
(pounds)
MAGAZINE TYPE REQUIRED
Unprotected
Cabinet
Sprinklers
Sprinklers
& cabinet
1
2
3
4
5
1.1"
A
High
1
2
X
X
X
—
1.2
A
High
1
2
X
X
X
1.2
B
Low
1
2
X
X
X
X
1.3
B
Low
5
10
X
X
X
X
—
1.4
B
Low
50
100
X
X
X
X
—
1.5
C
Low
1
2
X
X
X
X
1.5
Blasting
Agent
Blasting
Agent
1
2
X
X
X
X
X
1.6
N/A
N/A
1
2
X
X
X
X
X
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 pound per gallon = 0.12 kg per liter, 1 ounce = 28.35 g.
a. A factor of 10 pounds per gallon shall be used for converting pounds (solid) to gallons (liquid) in accordance with Section 2703.1.2.
b. Black powder shall be stored in a Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 magazine as provided for in Section 3304.3.1.
3304.4 Prohibited storage. Detonators shall be stored in a
separate magazine for blasting supplies and shall not be stored
in a magazine with other explosive materials.
3304.5 Location. The use of magazines for storage of explo-
sives and explosive materials shall comply with Sections
3304.5.1 through 3304.5.3.3.
3304.5.1 Indoor magazines. The use of indoor magazines
for storage of explosives and explosive materials shall com-
ply with the requirements of this section.
3304.5.1.1 Use. The use of indoor magazines for storage
of explosives and explosive materials shall be limited to
occupancies of Group F, H, M or S, and research and
development laboratories.
3304.5.1.2 Construction. Indoor magazines shall com-
ply with the following construction requirements:
1 . Construction shall be fire resistant and theft resis-
tant.
2. Exterior shall be painted red.
3. Base shall be fitted with wheels, casters or rollers
to facilitate removal from the building in an emer-
gency.
4. Lid or door shall be marked with conspicuous
white lettering not less than 3 inches (76 mm) high
and minimum V2 inch (12.7 mm) stroke, reading
EXPLOSIVES — KEEP FIRE AWAY.
5. The least horizontal dimension shall not exceed
the clear width of the entrance door.
3304.5.1.3 Quantity limit. Not more than 50 pounds (23
kg) of explosives or explosive materials shall be stored
within an indoor magazine.
Exception: Day boxes used for the storage of in-pro-
cess material in accordance with Section 3305.6.4. 1 .
3304.5.1.4 Prohibited use. Indoor magazines shall not
be used within buildings containing Group R occupan-
cies.
3304.5.1.5 Location. Indoor magazines shall be located
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of an entrance and only on
floors at or having ramp access to the exterior grade
level.
3304.5.1.6 Number. Not more than two indoor maga-
zines shall be located in the same building. Where two
such magazines are located in the same building, one
magazine shall be used solely for the storage of not more
than 5,000 detonators.
3304.5.1.7 Separation distance. When two magazines
are located in the same building, they shall be separated
by a distance of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
3304.5.2 Outdoor magazines. All outdoor magazines
other than Type 3 shall be located so as to comply with Table
3304.5.2(2) or Table 3304.5.2(3) as set forth in Tables
3301.8.1(1) through 3301.8.1(3). Where a magazine or
group of magazines, as described in Section 3304.5.2.2,
contains different classes of explosive materials, and Divi-
sion 1 . 1 materials are present, the required separations for
the magazine or magazine group as a whole shall comply
with Table 3304.5.2(2).
<•
292
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3304.5.2(1)
AMERICAN TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES AS APPROVED BY THE INSTITUTE OF MAKERS
OF EXPLOSIVES AND REVISED JUNE 1991^
QUANTITY OF EXPLOSIVE
MATERIALS'^
DISTANCES IN FEET
Inhabited buildings
Public highways with traffic
volume less than 3,000
vehicles per day
Public highways with traffic
volume greater than 3,000
vehicles per day and
passenger railways
Separation of magazines'*
Pounds over
Pounds not
over
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
5
70
140
30
60
51
102
6
12
5
10
90
180
35
70
64
128
8
16
10
20
110
220
45
90
81
162
10
20
20
30
125
250
50
100
93
186
11
22
30
40
140
280
55
110
103
206
12
24
40
50
150
300
60
120
110
220
14
28
50
75
170
340
70
140
127
254
15
30
75
100
190
380
75
150
139
278
16
32
100
125
200
400
80
160
150
300
18
36
125
150
215
430
85
170
159
318
19
38
150
200
235
470
95
190
175
350
21
42
200
250
255
510
105
210
189
378
23
46
250
300
270
540
110
220
201
402
24
48
300
400
295
590
120
240
221
442
27
54
400
500
320
640
130
260
238
476
29
58
500
600
240
680
135
270
253
506
31
62
600
700
355
710
145
-^290
266
532
32
64
700
800
375
750
150
300
278
556
33
66
800
900
390
780
155
310
289
578
35
70
900
1,000
400
800
160
320
300
600
36
72
1,000
1,200
425
850
165
330
318
636
39
78
1,200
1,400
450
900
170
340
336
672
41
82
1,400
1,600
470
940
175
350
351
702
43
86
1,600
1,800
490
980
180
360
366
732
44
88
1,800
2,000
505
1,010
185
370
378
756
45
90
2,000
2,500
545
1,090
190
380
408
816
49
98
2,500
3,000
580
1,160
195
390
432
864
52
104
3,000
4,000
635
1,270
210
420
474
948
58
116
4,000
5,000
685
1,370
225
450
513
1,026
61
122
5,000
6,000
730
1,460
235
470
546
1,092
65
130
6,000
7,000
770
1,540
245
490
573
1,146
68
136
7,000
8,000
800
1,600
250
500
600
1,200
72
144
8,000
9,000
835
1,670
255
510
624
1,248
75
150
9,000
10,000
865
1,730
260
520
645
1,290
78
156
10,000
12,000
875
1,750
270
540
687
1,374
82
164
(continued)
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
293
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3304.5.2(1 )-continued
AMERICAN TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES AS APPROVED BY THE INSTITUTE OF MAKERS
OF EXPLOSIVES AND REVISED JUNE 1991^
QUANTITY OF EXPLOSIVE
MATERIALS'^
DISTANCES IN FEET
Inhabited buildings
Public highways with traffic
volume less than 3,000
vehicles per day
Public highways with traffic
volume greater than 3,000
vehicles per day and
passenger railways
Separation of magazines''
Pounds not
Pounds over
over
Barricaded
Un barricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
12,000
14,000
885
1,770
275
550
723
1,446
87
174
14,000
16,000
900
1,800
280
560
756
1,512
90
180
16,000
18,000
940
1,880
285
570
786
1,572
94
188
18,000
20,000
975
1,950
290
580
813
1,626
98
196
20,000
25,000
1,055
2,000
315
630
876
1,752
105
210
25,000
30,000
1,130
2,000
340
680
933
1,866
112
224
30,000
35,000
1,205
2,000
360
720
981
1,962
119
238
35,000
40,000
1,275
2,000
380
760
1,026
2,000
124
248
40,000
45,000
1,340
2,000
400
800
1,068
2,000
129
258
45,000
50,000
1,400
2,000
420
840
1,104
2,000
135
270
50,000
55,000
1,460
2,000
44
88
1,140
2,000
140
280
55,000
60,000
1,515
2,000
455
910
1,173
2,000
145
290
60,000
65,000
1,565
2,000
470
940
1,206
2,000
150
300
65,000
70,000
1,610
2,000
485
970
1,236
2,000
155
310
70,000
75,000
1,655
2,000
500
1,000
1,263
2,000
160
320
75,000
80,000
1,695
2,000
510
1,020
1,293
2,000
165
330
80,000
85,000
1,730
2,000
520
1,040
1,317
2,000
170
340
85,000
90,000
1,760
2,000
530
1,060
1,344
2,000
175
350
90,000
95,000
1,790
2,000
540
1,080
1,368
2,000
180
360
95,000
100,000
1,815
2,000
545
1,090
1,392
2,000
185
370
100,000
110,000
1,835
2,000
550
1,100
1,437
2,000
195
390
110,000
120,000
1,855
2,000
555
1,110
1,479
2,000
205
410
120,000
130,000
1,875
2,000
560
1,120
1,521
2,000
215
430
130,000
140,000
1,890
2,000
565
1,130
1,557
2,000
225
450
140,000
150,000
1,900
2,000
570
1,140
1,593
2,000
235
470
150,000
160,000
1,935
2,000
580
1,160
1,629
2,000
245
490
160,000
170,000
1,965
2,000
590
1,180
1,662
2,000
255
510
170,000
180,000
1,990
2,000
600
1,200
1,695
2,000
265
530
180,000
190,000
2,010
2,010
605
1,210
1,725
2,000
275
550
190,000
200,000
2,030
2,030
610
1,220
1,755
2,000
285
570
(continued)
294
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TABLE 3304.5.2(1 )-continued
AMERICAN TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES AS APPROVED BY THE INSTITUTE OF MAKERS
OF EXPLOSIVES AND REVISED JUNE 1991'
QUANTITY OF EXPLOSIVE
MATERIALS''
DISTANCES IN FEET
Inhabited buildings
Public highways with traffic
volume less than 3,000
vehicles per day
Public highways with traffic
volume greater than 3,000
vehicles per day and
passenger railways
Separation of magazines''
Pounds over
Pounds not
over
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
Barricaded
Unbarricaded
200,000
210,000
2,055
2,055
620
1,240
1,782
2,000
295
590
210,000
230,000
2,100
2,100
635
1,270
1,836
2,000
315
630
230,000
250,000
2,155
2,155
650
1,300
1,890
2,000
335
670
250,000
275,000
2,215
2,215
670
1,340
1,950
2,000
360
720
275,000
300,000"
2,275
2,275
690
1,380
2,000
2,000
385
770
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. This table applies only to the manufacture and permanent storage of commercial explosive materials. It is not applicable to transportation of explosives or any han-
dling or temporary storage necessary or incident thereto. It is not intended to apply to bombs, projectiles or other hea'ily encased explosives.
b. Storage in excess of 300,000 pounds of explosive materials in one magazine is not allowed.
c. Where a manufacturing building on an explosive materials plant site is designed to contain explosive materials, such building shall be located with respect to its
proximity to inhabited buildings, public highways and passenger railways based on the maximum quantity of explosive materials permitted to be in the building at
one time. ';
d. Where two or more storage magazines are located on the same property, each magazine shall comply with the minimum distances specified from inhabited build-
ings, railways and highways, and, in addition, they should be separated from each other by not less than the distances shown for separation of magazines, except
that the quantity of explosives in detonator magazines shall govern in regard to the spacing of said detonator magazines from magazines containing other explosive
materials. Where any two or more magazines are separated from each other by less than the specified separation of magazines distances, then two or more such
magazines, as a group, shall be considered as one magazine, and the total quantity of explosive materials stored in such group shall be treated as if stored in a single
magazine located on the site of any magazine in the group and shall comply with the minimum distances specified from other magazines, inhabited buildings, rail-
ways and highways.
TABLE 3304.5.2(2)
TABLE OF DISTANCES (Q-D) FOR BUILDINGS CONTAINING EXPLOSIVES — DIVISION 1.3 MASS-FIRE HAZARD'"^
QUANTITY OF DIVISION 1.3 EXPLOSIVES
(NET EXPLOSIVES WEIGHT)
DISTANCES IN FEET
Pounds over
Pounds not over
Inhabited Building
Distance (IBD)
Distance to Public Traffic
Route (PTR)
Intermagazine Distance
(IIVID)
Intraline Distance (ILD) or
Intrapiant Distance (IPD)
1,000
75
75
50
50
1,000
5,000
115
115
75
75
5,000
10,000
150
150
100
100
10,000
20,000
190
190
125
125
20,000
30,000
215
215
145
145
30,000
40,000
235
235
155
155
40,000
50,000
250
250
165
165
50,000
60,000
260
260
175
175
60,000
70,000
270
270
185
185
70,000
80,000
280
280
190
190
80,000
90,000
295
295
195
195
90,000
100,000
300
300
200
200
100,000
200,000
375
375
250
250
200,000
300,000
450
450
300
300
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. Black powder, when stored in magazines, is defined as low explosive by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF).
b. For quantities less than 1,000 pounds, the required distances are those specified for 1,000 pounds. The use of lesser distances is allowed when supported by
approved test data and/or analysis.
c. Linear interpolation of explosive quantities between table entries is allowed.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
295
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3304.5.2(3)
TABLE OF DISTANCES (Q-D) FOR BUILDINGS CONTAINING EXPLOSIVES —DIVISION 1.4
QUANTITY OF DIVISION 1.4 EXPLOSIVES (NET
EXPLOSIVES WEIGHT)
DISTANCES IN FEET
Pounds over
Pounds not over
Inhabited Building
Distance (IBD)
Distance to Public Traffic
Route (PTR)
Intermagazine
Distance^' " (IWID)
Intraline Distance (ILD) or
Intraplant Distance^ (IPD)
50
Not Limited
100
100
50
50
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. A separation distance of 100 feet is required for buildings of other than Type I or Type II construction as defined in the International Building Code.
h. For earth-covered magazines, no specified separation is required.
1 . Earth cover material used for magazines shall be relatively cohesive. Solid or wet clay and similar types of soil are to cohesive and shall not be used. Soil shall
be free from unsanitary organic matter, trash, debris and stones heavier than 10 pounds or larger than 6 inches in diameter. Compaction and surface prepara-
tion shall be provided, as necessary, to maintain structural integrity and avoid erosion. Where cohesive material cannot be used, as in sandy soil, the earth
cover over magazines shall be finished with a suitable material to ensure structural int^rity.
2. The earth fill or earth cover between earth-covered magazines shall be either soUd or sloped, in accordance with the requirements of other construction fea-
tures, but a minimum of 2 feet of earth cover shall be maintained over the top of each magazines. To reduce erosion and facihtate maintenance operations, the
cover shall have a slope of 2 horizontal to 1 vertical.
c. Restricted to articles, including articles packaged for shipment, that are not regulated as an explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms regulations,
or unpacked articles used in process operations that do not propagate a detonation or deflagration between articles.
3304.5.2.1 Separation. Where two or more storage
magazines are located on the same property, each maga-
zine shall comply with the minimum distances specified
from inhabited buildings, public transportation routes
and operating buildings. Magazines shall be separated
from each other by not less than the intermagazine dis-
tances (IMD) shown for the separation of magazines.
3304.5.2.2 Grouped magazines. Where two or more
magazines are separated from each other by less than the
intermagazine distances (IMD), such magazines as a
group shall be considered as one magazine and the total
quantity of explosive materials stored in the group shall
be treated as if stored in a single magazine. The location
of the group of magazines shall comply with the
intermagazine distances (IMD) specified from other
magazines or magazine groups, inhabited buildings
(IBD), public transportation routes (PTR) and operating
buildings (ILD or IPD) as required.
3304.5.3 Special requirements for T^pe 3 magazines.
Type 3 magazines shall comply with Sections 3304.5.3.1
through 3304.5.3.3.
3304.5.3.1 Location. Wherever practicable. Type 3
magazines shall be located away from neighboring
inhabited buildings, railways, highways, and other mag-
azines in accordance with Table 3304.5.2(2) or
3304.5.2(3) as applicable.
3304.5.3.2 Supervision. Type 3 magazines shall be
attended when explosive materials are stored within.
Explosive materials shall be removed to appropriate stor-
age magazines for unattended storage at the end of the
work day.
3304.5.3.3 Use. Not more than two Type 3 magazines
shall be located at the same blasting site. Where two Type
3 magazines are located at the same blasting site, one
magazine shall used solely for the storage of detonators.
3304.6 Construction. Magazines shall be constructed in
accordance with Sections 3304.6.1 through 3304.6.5.2.
3304.6.1 Drainage. The ground around a magazine shall be
graded so that water drains away from the magazine.
3304.6.2 Heating. Magazines requiring heat shall be heated
as prescribed in NFPA 495 by either hot water radiant heat-
ing within the magazine or by indirect warm air heating.
3304.6.3 Lighting. When lighting is necessary within a
magazine, electric safety flashlights or electric safety lan-
terns shall be used, except as provided in NFPA 495.
3304.6.4 Nonsparking materials. In other than Type 5
magazines, there shall be no exposed ferrous metal on the
interior of a magazine containing packages of explosives.
3304.6.5 Signs and placards. Property upon which Type 1
magazines and outdoor magazines of Types 2, 4 and 5 are
located shall be posted with signs stating: EXPLOSIVES —
KEEP OFF. These signs shall be of contrasting colors with a
minimum letter height of 3 inches (76 mm) with a minimum
brush stroke of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). The signs shall be
located to minimize the possibility of a bullet shot at the sign
hitting the magazine.
3304.6.5.1 Access road signs. At the entrance to explo-
sive material manufacturing and storage sites, all access
roads shall be posted with the following warning sign or
other approved sign:
DANGER!
NEVER FIGHT EXPLOSIVE FIRES.
EXPLOSIVES ARE STORED ON THIS SITE
CALL .
The sign shall be weather resistant with a reflective
surface and have lettering at least 2 inches (5 1 mm) high.
3304.6.5.2 Placards. Type 5 magazines containing Divi-
sion 1 .5 blasting agents shall be prominently placarded
as required during transportation by DOTn 49 CFR, Part
172 and DOTy 27 CFR, Part 55.
3304.7 Operation. Magazines shall be operated in accordance
with Sections 3304.7.1 through 3304.7.9.
296
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
3304.7.1 Security. Magazines shall be kept locked in the
manner prescribed in NFPA 495 at all times except during
placement or removal of explosives or inspection.
3304.7.2 Open flames and lights. Smoking, matches,
flame-producing devices, open flames, firearms and fire-
arms cartridges shall not be allowed inside of or within 50
feet (15 240 mm) of magazines.
3304.7.3 Brush. The area located around a magazine shall
be kept clear of brush, dried grass, leaves, trash, debris, and
similar combustible materials for a distance of 25 feet (7620
mm).
3304.7.4 Combustible storage. Combustible materials
shall not be stored within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of magazines.
3304.7.5 Unpacking and repacking explosive materials.
Containers of explosive materials, except fiberboard con-
tainers, and packages of damaged or deteriorated explosive
materials or fireworks shall not be unpacked or repacked
inside or within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a magazine or in
close proximity to other explosive materials.
3304.7.5.1 Storage of opened packages. Packages of
explosive materials that have been opened shall be closed
before being placed in a magazine.
3304.7.5.2 Nonsparking tools. Tools used for the open-
ing and closing of packages of explosive materials, other
than metal slitters for opening paper, plastic or fiber-
board containers, shall be made of nonsparking materi-
als.
3304.7.5.3 Disposal of packaging. Empty containers
and paper and fiber packaging materials that previously
contained explosive materials shall be disposed of or
reused in a approved manner.
3304.7.6 Tools and equipment. Metal tools, other than
nonferrous transfer conveyors and ferrous metal conveyor
stands protected by a coat of paint, shall not be stored in a
magazine containing explosive materials or detonators.
3304.7.7 Contents. Magazines shall be used exclusively for
the storage of explosive materials, blasting materials and
blasting accessories.
3304.7.8 Compatibility. Corresponding grades and brands
of explosive materials shall be stored together and in such a
manner that the grade and brand marks are visible. Stocks
shall be stored so as to be easily counted and checked. Pack-
ages of explosive materials shall be stacked in a stable man-
ner not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in height.
3304.7.9 Stock rotation. When explosive material is
removed from a magazine for use, the oldest usable stocks
shall be removed first.
3304.8 Maintenance. Maintenance of magazines shall comply
with Sections 3304.8.1 through 3304.8.3.
3304.8.1 Housekeeping. Magazine floors shall be regularly
swept and be kept clean, dry and free of grit, paper, empty
packages and rubbish. Brooms and other cleaning utensils
shall not have any spark-producing metal parts. Sweepings
from magazine floors shall be disposed of in accordance
with the manufacturers' approved instructions.
3304.8.2 Repairs. Explosive materials shall be removed
from the magazine before making repairs to the interior of a
magazine. Explosive materials shall be removed from the
magazine before making repairs to the exterior of the maga-
zine where there is a possibility of causing a fire. Explosive
materials removed from a magazine under repair shall either
be placed in another magazine or placed a safe distance
from the magazine, where they shall be properly guarded
and protected until repairs have been completed. Upon com-
pletion of repairs, the explosive materials shall be promptly
returned to the magazine. Floors shall be cleaned before and
after repairs.
3304.8.3 Floors. Magazine floors stained widi liquid shall
be dealt with according to instructions obtained from the
manufacturer of the explosive material stored in the maga-
zine.
3304.9 Inspection. Magazines containing explosive materials
shall be opened and inspected at maximum seven-day inter-
vals. The inspection shall determine whether there has been an
unauthorized or attempted entry into a magazine or an unau-
thorized removal of a magazine or its contents.
3304.10 Disposal of explosive materials. Explosive materials
shall be disposed of in accordance with Sections 3304.10.1
through 3304.10.7.
3304.10.1 Notification. The fire code official shall be noti-
fied immediately when deteriorated or leaking explosive
materials are determined to be dangerous or unstable and in
need of disposal.
3304.10.2 Deteriorated materials. When an explosive
material has deteriorated to an extent that it is in an unstable
or dangerous condition, or when a liquid has leaked from an
explosive material, the person in possession of such mate-
rial shall immediately contact the material's manufacturer
to obtain disposal and handling instructions.
3304.10.3 Qualified person. The work of destroying
explosive materials shall be directed by persons experi-
enced in the destruction of explosive materials.
3304.10.4 Storage of misfires. Explosive materials and
fireworks recovered from blasting or display misfires shall
be placed in a magazine until an experienced person has
determined the proper method for disposal.
3304.10.5 Disposal sites. Sites for the destruction of explo-
sive materials and fireworks shall be approved and located
at the maximum practicable safe distance from inhabited
buildings, public highways, operating buildings, and all
other exposures to ensure keeping air blast and ground
vibration to a minimum. The location of disposal sites shall
be no closer to magazines, inhabited buildings, railways,
highways and other rights-of-way than is allowed by Tables
3304.5.2(1), 3304.5.2(2) and 3304.5.2(3). When possible,
barricades shall be utilized between the destruction site and
inhabited buildings. Areas where explosives are detonated
or burned shall be posted with adequate warning signs.
3304.10.6 Reuse of site. Unless an approved burning site
has been thoroughly saturated with water and has passed a
safety inspection, 48 hours shall elapse between the com-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
297
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
pletion of a bum and the placement of scrap explosive mate-
rials for a subsequent bum.
3304.10.7 Personnel safeguards. Once an explosive bum
operation has been started, personnel shall relocate to a safe
location where adequate protection from air blast and flying
debris is provided. Personnel shall not return to the bum
area until the person in charge has inspected the bum site
and determined that it is safe for personnel to retum.
SECTION 3305
MANUFACTURE, ASSEMBLY AND TESTING OF
EXPLOSIVES, EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
AND FIREWORKS
3305.1 GeneraL The manufacture, assembly and testing of
explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks shall
comply with the requirements of this section and NFPA 495 or
NFPA1124.
Exceptions:
1 . The hand loading of small arms ammunition prepared
for personal use and not offered for resale.
2. The mixing and loading of blasting agents at blasting
sites in accordance with NFPA 495.
3 . The use of binary explosives or plosophoric materials
in blasting or pyrotechnic special effects applications
in accordance with NFPA 495 or NFPA 1 126.
3305.2 Emergency planning and preparedness. Emergency
plans, emergency drills, employee training and hazard commu-
nication shall conform to the provisions of this section and Sec-
tions 404, 405, 406 and 407.
3305.2.1 Hazardous Materials Management Plans and
Inventory Statements required. Detailed Hazardous
Materials Management Plans (HMMP) and Hazardous
Materials Inventory Statements (HMIS) complying with the
requirements of Section 407 shall be prepared and submit-
ted to the local emergency planning committee, the fire code
official, and the local fire department.
3305.2.2 Maintenance of plans. A copy of the required
HMMP and HMIS shall be maintained on site and fumished
to the fire code official on request.
3305.2.3 Employee training. Workers who handle explo-
sives or explosive charges or dispose of explosives shall be
trained in the hazards of the materials and processes in
which they are to be engaged and with the safety mles gov-
eming such materials and processes.
3305.2.4 Emergency procedures. Approved emergency
procedures shall be formulated for each plant which will
include personal instmction in any emergency that may be
anticipated. All personnel shall be made aware of an emer-
gency warning signal.
3305.3 Intraplant separation of operating buildings. Explo-
sives manufacturing buildings and fireworks manufacturing
buildings, including those where explosive charges are assem-
bled, manufactured, prepared or loaded utilizing Division 1.1,
1.2, 1.3, 1.4 or 1.5 explosives, shall be separated from all other
buildings, including magazines, within the confines of the
manufacturing plant, at a distance not less than those shown in
Table 3305.3 or 3304.5.2(3), as appropriate.
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings separated
in accordance with NFPA 1 124. I
The quantity of explosives in an operating building shall be
the net weight of all explosives contained therein. Distances
shall be based on the hazard division requiring the greatest sep-
aration, unless the aggregate explosive weight is divided by
approved walls or shields designed for that purpose. When
dividing a quantity of explosives into smaller stacks, a suitable
barrier or adequate separation distance shall be provided to pre-
vent propagation from one stack to another.
When distance is used as the sole means of separation within
a building, such distance shall be estabhshed by testing. Test-
ing shall demonstrate that propagation between stacks will not
result. Barriers provided to protect against explosive effects
shall be designed and installed in accordance with approved
standards. ^
3305.4 Separation of manufacturing operating buildings I
from inhabited buildings, public traffic routes and maga- I
zines. When an operating building on an explosive materials I
plant site is designed to contain explosive materials, such a
building shall be located away from inhabited buildings, public I
traffic routes and magazines in accordance with Table |
3304.5.2(2) or 3304.5.2(3) as appropriate, based on the maxi-
mum quantity of explosive materials permitted to be in the
building at one time (see Section 3301.8). |
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings con-
stmcted and operated in accordance with NFPA 1 124.
3305.4.1 Determination of net explosive weight for oper-
ating buildings. In addition to the requirements of Section
3301.8 to determine the net explosive weight for materials
stored or used in operating buildings, quantities of explosive
materials stored in magazines located at distances less than
intraline distances from the operating building shall be
added to the contents of the operating building to determine
the net explosive weight for the operating building.
3305.4.1.1 Indoor magazines. The storage of explosive
materials located in indoor magazines in operating build-
ings shall be limited to a net explosive weight not to
exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
3305.4.1.2 Outdoor magazines with a net explosive
weight less than 50 pounds. The storage of explosive
materials in outdoor magazines located at less than
intraline distances from operating buildings shall be lim-
ited to a net explosive weight not to exceed 50 pounds (23
kg).
3305.4.1.3 Outdoor magazines with a net explosive
weight greater than 50 pounds. The storage of explo-
sive materials in outdoor magazines in quantities exceed-
ing 50 pounds (23 kg) net explosive weight shall be
limited to storage in outdoor magazines located not less
than intraline distances from the operating building in
accordance with Section 3304.5.2.
3305.4.1.4 Net explosive weight of materials stored in
combination indoor and outdoor magazines. The
298
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
•I
aggregate quantity of explosive materials stored in any
combination of indoor magazines or outdoor magazines
located at less than the intraline distances from an operat-
ing building shall not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
3305.5 Buildings and equipment. Buildings or rooms that
exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area of
explosive materials shall be operated in accordance with this
section and constructed in accordance with the requirements of
the International Building Code for Group H occupancies.
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings con-
structed and operated in accordance with NFPA 1 124.
3305.5.1 Explosives dust. Explosives dust shall not be
exhausted to the atmosphere.
3305.5.1.1 Wet collector. When collecting explosives
dust, a wet collector system shall be used. Wetting agents
shall be compatible with the explosives. Collector sys-
tems shall be interlocked with process power supplies so
that the process cannot continue without the collector
systems also operating.
3305.5.1.2 Waste disposal and maintenance. Explo-
sives dust shall be removed from the collection chamber
as often as necessary to prevent overloading. The entire
system shall be cleaned at a frequency that will eliminate
hazardous concentrations of explosives dust in pipes,
tubing and ducts.
3305.5.2 Exhaust fans. Squirrel cage blowers shall not be
used for exhausting hazardous fumes, vapors or gases. Only
nonferrous fan blades shall be used for fans located within
the ductwork and through which hazardous materials are
exhausted. Motors shall be located outside the duct.
3305.5.3 Work stations. Work stations shall be separated
by distance, barrier or other approved alternatives so that
TABLE 3305.3
MINIMUM INTRALINE (INTRAPLANT) SEPARATION DISTANCES (ILD OR IPD) BETWEEN
BARRICADED OPERATING BUILDINGS CONTAINING EXPLOSIVES — DIVISION 1.1, 1.2 OR 1.5 — MASS EXPLOSION HAZARD'
NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT
NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT
Pounds over
Pounds not over
Intraline Distance (ILD)
or Intraplant Distance
(IPD) (feet)
Pounds over
Pounds not over
Intraline Distance (ILD)
or Intraplant Distance
(IPD) (feet)
50
30
20,000
25,000
265
50
100
40
25,000
30,000
280
100
200
50
30,000
35,000
295
200
300
60
35,000
40,000
310
300
400
65
40,000
45,000
320
400
500
70
45,000
50,000
330
500
600
75
50,000
55,000
340
600
700
80
55,000
60,000
350
700
800
85
60,000
65,000
360
800
900
90
65,000
70,000
370
900
1,000
95
70,000
75,000
385
1,000
1,500
105
75,000
80,000
390
1,500
2,000
115
80,000
85,000
395
2,000
3,000
130
85,000
90,000
400
3,000
4,000
140
90,000
95,000
410
4,000
5,000
150
95,000
100,000
415
5,000
6,000
160
100,000
125,000
450
6,000
7,000
170
125,000
150,000
475
7,000
8,000
18
150,000
175,000
500
8,000
9,000
190
175,000
200,000
525
9,000
10,000
200
200,000
225,000
550
10,000
15,000
225
225,000
250,000
575
15,000
20,000
245
250,000
275,000
600
—
—
—
275,000
300,000
635
For SI: 1 foot = 304.J
a. Where a building or
> mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
magazine containing explosives is not barricaded, the intraline distances shown in this table shall be doubled.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
299
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
fire in one station will not ignite material in another work
station. Where necessary, the operator shall be protected by
a personnel shield located between the operator and the
explosive device or explosive material being processed.
This shield and its support shall be capable of withstanding
a blast from the maximum amount of explosives allowed
behind it.
3305.6 Operations. Operations involving explosives shall
comply with Sections 3305.6.1 through 3305.6.10.
3305.6.1 Isolation of operations. When the type of mate-
rial and processing warrants, mechanical operations involv-
ing explosives in excess of 1 pound (0.454 kg) shall be
carried on at isolated stations or at intraplant distances, and
machinery shall be controlled from remote locations behind
barricades or at separations so that workers will be at a safe
distance while machinery is operating.
3305.6.2 Static controls. The work area where the screen-
ing, grinding, blending and other processing of static-sensi-
tive explosives or pyrotechnic materials is done shall be
provided with approved static controls.
3305.6.3 Approved containers. Bulk explosives shall be
kept in approved, nonsparking containers when not being
used or processed. Explosives shall not be stored or trans-
ported in open containers.
3305.6.4 Quantity limits. The quantity of explosives at any
particular work station shall be limited to that posted on the
load limit signs for the individual work station. The total
quantity of explosives for multiple workstations shall not
exceed that established by the intraplant distances in Table
3305.3 or 3304.5.2(3), as appropriate.
3305.6.4.1 Magazines. Magazines used for storage in
processing areas shall be in accordance with the require-
ments of Section 3304.5.1. All explosive materials shall
be removed to appropriate storage magazines for unat-
tended storage at the end of the work day. The contents of
indoor magazines shall be added to the quantity of explo-
sives contained at individual workstations and the total
quantity of material stored, processed or used shall be
utilized to establish the intraplant separation distances
indicated by Table 3305.3 or 3304.5.2(3), as appropriate.
3305.6.5 Waste disposal. Approved receptacles with cov-
ers shall be provided for each location for disposing of
waste material and debris. These waste receptacles shall be
emptied and cleaned as often as necessary but not less than
once each day or at the end of each shift.
3305.6.6 Safety rules. General safety rules and operating
instructions governing the particular operation or process
conducted at that location shall be available at each location.
3305.6.7 Personnel limits. The number of occupants in
each process building and in each magazine shall not exceed
the number necessary for proper conduct of production
operations.
3305.6.8 Pyrotechnic and explosive composition quan-
tity limits. Not more than 500 pounds (227 kg) of pyrotech-
nic or explosive composition, including not more than 10
pounds (5 kg) of salute powder shall be allowed at one time
in any process building or area. All compositions not in cur-
rent use shall be kept in covered nonferrous containers.
Exception: Composition that has been loaded or pressed
into tubes or other containers as consumer fireworks.
3305.6.9 Posting limits. The maximum number of occu-
pants and maximum weight of pyrotechnic and explosive
composition permitted in each process building shall be
posted in a conspicuous location in each process building or
magazine.
3305.6.10 Heat sources. Fireworks, explosives or explo-
sive charges in explosive materials manufacturing, assem-
bly or testing shall not be stored near any source of heat.
Exception: Approved drying or curing operations.
3305.7 Maintenance. Maintenance and repair of explo-
sives-manufacturing facilities and areas shall comply with Sec-
tion 3304.8.
3305.8 Explosive materials testing sites. Detonation of
explosive materials or ignition of fireworks for testing pur-
poses shall be done only in isolated areas at sites where dis-
tance, protection from missiles, shrapnel or flyrock, and other
safeguards provides protection against injury to personnel or
damage to property.
3305.8.1 Protective clothing and equipment. Protective
clothing and equipment shall be provided to protect persons
engaged in the testing, ignition or detonation of explosive
materials.
3305.8.2 Site security. When tests are being conducted or
explosives are being detonated, only authorized persons
shall be present. Areas where explosives are regularly or fre-
quently detonated or burned shall be approved and posted
with adequate warning signs. Warning devices shall be acti-
vated before burning or detonating explosives to alert per-
sons approaching from any direction that they are
approaching a danger zone.
3305.9 Waste disposal. Disposal of explosive materials waste
from manufacturing, assembly or testing operations shall be in
accordance with Section 3304.10.
SECTION 3306
SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION
3306.1 General. Indoor storage and display of black powder,
smokeless propellants and small arms ammunition shall com-
ply with this section and NFFA 495.
3306.2 Prohibited storage. Small arms ammunition shall not
be stored together with Division 1.1, Division 1.2 or Division
1.3 explosives unless the storage facility is suitable for the stor-
age of explosive materials.
3306.3 Packages. Smokeless propellants shall be stored in
approved shipping containers conforming to DOTn 49 CFR,
Part 173.
3306.3.1 Repackaging. The bulk repackaging of smokeless
propellants, black powder, and small arms primers shall not
be performed in retail establishments.
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3306.3.2 Damaged packages. Damaged containers shall
not be repackaged.
Exception: Approved repackaging of damaged contain-
ers of smokeless propellant into containers of the same
type and size as the original container.
3306.4 Storage in Group R occupancies. The storage of
small arms ammunition in Group R occupancies shall comply
with Sections 3306.4.1 and 3306.4.2.
3306.4.1 Black powder and smokeless propellants. Pro-
pellants for personal use in quantities not exceeding 20
pounds (9 kg) of black powder or 20 pounds (9 kg) of
smokeless powder shall be stored in original containers in
occupancies limited to Group R-3. Smokeless powder in
quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50
pounds (23 kg) kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls
of at least 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness shall be
allowed to be stored in occupancies limited to Group R-3.
Quantities exceeding these amounts shall not be stored in
any Group R occupancy.
3306.4.2 Small arms primers. No more than 10,000 small
arms primers shall be stored in occupancies limited to
Group R-3.
3306.5 Display and storage in Group M occupancies. The
display and storage of small arms ammunition in Group M
occupancies shall comply with this section.
3306.5.1 Display. Display of small arms ammunition in
Group M occupancies shall comply with Sections
3306.5.1.1 through 3306.5.1.3.
3306.5.1.1 Smokeless propellant. No more than 20
pounds (9 kg) of smokeless propellants, each in contain-
ers of 1 pound (0.454 kg) or less capacity, shall be dis-
played in Group M occupancies.
3306.5.1.2 Black powder. No more than 1 pound (0.454
kg) of black powder shall be displayed in Group M occu-
pancies.
3306.5.1.3 Small arms primers. No more than 10,000
small arms primers shall be displayed in Group M occu-
pancies.
3306.5.2 Storage. Storage of small arms ammunition shall
comply with Sections 3306.5.2.1 through 3306.5.2.3.
3306.5.2.1 Smokeless propellant. Commercial stocks
of smokeless propellants shall be stored as follows:
1. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not
exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in
portable wooden boxes having walls of at least 1
inch (25 mm) nominal thickness.
2. Quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg), but not
exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), shall be stored in
nonportable storage cabinets having walls at least
1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness. Not more than
400 pounds (1 82 kg) shall be stored in any one cab-
inet, and cabinets shall be separated by a distance
of at least 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition
having a fire-resistance rating of at least 1 hour.
3. Storage of quantities exceeding 800 pounds (363
kg), but not exceeding 5,000 pounds (2270 kg) in a
building shall comply with all of the following:
3.1. The warehouse or storage room is
unaccessible to unauthorized personnel.
3.2. Smokeless propellant shall be stored in
nonportable storage cabinets having wood
walls at least 1 inch (25 mm) nominal
thickness and having shelves with no more
than 3 feet (914 mm) of separation
between shelves.
3.3. No more than 400 pounds (182 kg) is
stored in any one cabinet.
3.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls of
the storage room or warehouse with at least
40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets.
3.5. The minimum required separation
between cabinets shall be 20 feet (6096
mm) provided that barricades twice the
height of the cabinets are attached to the
wall, midway between each cabinet. The
barricades must extend a minimum of 10
feet (3048 mm) outward, be firmly
attached to the wall, and be constructed of
steel not less than 0.25 inch thick (6.4 mm),
2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood,
brick, or concrete block.
3.6. Smokeless propellant shall be separated
from materials classified as combustible
liquids, flammable liquids, flammable sol-
ids, or oxidizing materials by a distance of
25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition
having a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour.
3.7. The building shall be equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
4. Smokeless propellants not stored according to
Item 1 , 2, or 3 above shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4
magazine in accordance with Section 3304 and
NFPA 495.
3306.5.2.2 Black powder. Commercial stocks of black
powder in quantities less than 50 pounds (23 kg) shall be
allowed to be stored in Type 2 or 4 indoor or outdoor
magazines. Quantities greater than 50 pounds (23 kg)
shall be stored in outdoor Type 2 or 4 magazines. When
black powder and smokeless propellants are stored
together in the same magazine, the total quantity shall
not exceed that permitted for black powder.
3306.5.2.3 Small arms primers. Commercial stocks of
small arms primers shall be stored as follows:
1. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not
exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in
portable wooden boxes having walls of at least 1
inch (25 mm) nominal thickness.
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2. Quantities exceeding 750,000 small arms primers
stored in a building shall comply with all of the fol-
lowing:
2.1. The warehouse or storage building shall
not be accessible to unauthorized person-
nel.
2.2. Small arms primers shall be stored in cabi-
nets. No more than 200,000 small arms
primers shall be stored in any one cabinet.
2.3. Shelves in cabinets shall have vertical sep-
aration of at least 2 feet (610 mm).
2.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls of
the warehouse or storage room with at least
40 feet ( 1 2 1 92 mm) between cabinets . The
minimum required separation between
cabinets shall be allowed to be reduced to
20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barri-
cades twice the height of the cabinets are
attached to the wall, midway between each
cabinet. The barricades shall be firmly
attached to the wall and shall be con-
structed of steel not less than V4 inch thick
(6.4 mm), 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thick-
ness wood, brick or concrete block.
2.5. Small arms primers shall be separated
from materials classified as combustible
liquids, flammable liquids, flammable sol-
ids or oxidizing materials by a distance of
25 feet (7620 mm) by a fire partition hav-
ing a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour.
2.6. The building shall be protected throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
3. Small arms primers not stored in accordance with
Item 1 or 2 of this section shall be stored in a maga-
zine meeting the requirements of Section 3304 and
NFPA 495.
SECTION 3307
BLASTING
3307.1 General. Blasting operations shall be conducted only
by approved, competent operators familiar with the required
safety precautions and the hazards involved and in accordance
with the provisions of NFPA 495.
3307.2 Manufacturer's instructions. Blasting operations
shall be performed in accordance with the instructions of the
manufacturer of the explosive materials being used.
3307.3 Blasting in congested areas. When blasting is done in
a congested area or in close proximity to a structure, railway or
highway, or any other installation, precautions shall be taken to
minimize earth vibrations and air blast effects. Blasting mats or
other protective means shall be used to prevent fragments from
being thrown.
3307.4 Restricted hours. Surface-blasting operations shall
only be conducted during daylight hours. Other blasting shall
be performed during daylight hours unless otherwise approved
by the fire code official.
3307.5 Utility notification. Whenever blasting is being con-
ducted in the vicinity of utility lines or rights-of-way, the
blaster shall notify the appropriate representatives of the utili-
ties at least 24 hours in advance of blasting, specifying the loca-
tion and intended time of such blasting. Verbal notices shall be
confirmed with written notice.
Exception: In an emergency situation, the time limit shall
not apply when approved.
3307.6 Electric detonator precautions. Precautions shall be
taken to prevent accidental discharge of electric detonators
from currents induced by radar and radio transmitters, light-
ning, adjacent power lines, dust and snow storms, or other
sources of extraneous electricity.
3307.7 Nonelectric detonator precautions. Precautions shall
be taken to prevent accidental initiation of nonelectric detona-
tors from stray currents induced by lightning or static electric-
ity.
3307.8 Blasting area security. During the time that holes are
being loaded or are loaded with explosive materials, blasting
agents or detonators, only authorized persons engaged in drill-
ing and loading operations or otherwise authorized to enter the
site shall be allowed at the blast site. The blast site shall be
guarded or barricaded and posted. Blast site security shall be
maintained until after the post-blast inspection has been com-
pleted.
3307.9 Drill holes. Holes drilled for the loading of explosive
charges shall be made and loaded in accordance with NFPA
495.
3307.10 Removal of excess explosive materials. After load-
ing for a blast is completed and before firing, excess explosive
materials shall be removed from the area and returned to the
proper storage facilities.
3307.11 Initiation means. The initiation of blasts shall be by
means conforming to the provisions of NFPA 495.
3307.12 Connections. The blaster shall supervise the connect-
ing of the blastholes and the connection of the loadline to the
power source or initiation point. Connections shall be made
progressively from the blasthole back to the initiation point.
Blasting lead lines shall remain shunted (shorted) and shall
not be connected to the blasting machine or other source of cur-
rent until the blast is to be fired.
3307.13 Firing control. No blast shall be fired until the blaster
has made certain that all surplus explosive materials are in a
safe place in accordance with Section 3307.10, all persons and
equipment are at a safe distance or under sufficient cover, and
that an adequate warning signal has been given.
3307.14 Post-blast procedures. After the blast, the following
procedures shall be observed.
1 . No person shall return to the blast area until allowed to do
so by the blaster in charge.
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2. The blaster shall allow sufficient time for smoke and
fumes to dissipate and for dust to settle before returning
to or approaching the blast area.
3. The blaster shall inspect the entire blast site for misfires
before allowing other personnel to return to the blast
area.
3307.15 Misfires. Where a misfire is suspected, all initiating
circuits shall be traced and a search made for unexploded
charges. Where a misfire is found, the blaster shall provide
proper safeguards for excluding all personnel from the blast
area. Misfires shall be reported to the blasting supervisor
immediately. Misfires shall be handled under the direction of
the person in charge of the blasting operation in accordance
with NFPA 495.
SECTION 3308
FIREWORKS DISPLAY
3308.1 General. The display of fireworks, including proxi-
mate audience displays and pyrotechnic special effects in
motion picture, television, theatrical, and group entertainment
productions, shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 1 123 or
NFPA 1126.
3308.2 Permit application. Prior to issuing permits for a fire-
works display, plans for the display, inspections of the display
site and demonstrations of the display operations shall be
approved. A plan establishing procedures to follow and actions
to be taken in the event that a shell fails to ignite in, or discharge
from, a mortar or fails to function over the fallout area or other
malfunctions shall be provided to the fire code official.
3308.2.1 Outdoor displays. In addition to the requirements
of Section 403, permit applications for outdoor fireworks
displays using Division 1.3G fireworks shall include a dia-
gram of the location at which the display will be conducted,
including the site from which fireworks will be discharged;
the location of buildings, highways, overhead obstructions
and utilities; and the lines behind which the audience will be
restrained.
3308.2.2 Proximate audience displays. Where the separa-
tion distances required by Section 3308.4 and NFPA 1123
are unavailable or cannot be secured, only proximate audi-
ence displays conducted in accordance with NFPA 1126
shall be allowed. Applications for proximate audience dis-
plays shall include plans indicating the required clearances
for spectators and combustibles, crowd control measures,
smoke control measures, and requirements for standby per-
sonnel and equipment when provision of such personnel or
equipment is required by the fire code official.
3308.3 Approved displays. Approved displays shall include
only the approved Division 1.3G, Division 1.4G, and Division
1.4S fireworks, shall be handled by an approved competent
operator, and the fireworks shall be arranged, located, dis-
charged and fired in a manner that will not pose a hazard to
property or endanger any person.
3308.4 Clearance. Spectators, spectator parking areas, and
dwellings, buildings or structures shall not be located within
the display site.
Exceptions:
1 . This provision shall not apply to pyrotechnic special
effects and displays using Division 1.4G materials
before a proximate audience in accordance with
NFPA 1126.
2. This provision shall not apply to unoccupied dwell-
ings, buildings and structures with the approval of the
building owner and the fire code official.
3308.5 Storage of fireworks at display site. The storage of
fireworks at the display site shall comply with the requirements
of this section and NFPA 1 123 or NFPA 1 126.
3308.5.1 Supervision and weather protection. Beginning
as soon as fireworks have been delivered to the display site,
they shall not be left unattended.
3308.5.2 Weather protection. Fireworks shall be kept dry
after delivery to the display site.
3308.5.3 Inspection. Shells shall be inspected by the opera-
tor or assistants after delivery to the display site. Shells hav-
ing tears, leaks, broken fuses or signs of having been wet
shall be set aside and shall not be fired. Aerial shells shall be
checked for proper fit in mortars prior to discharge. Aerial
shells that do not fit properly shall not be fired. After the dis-
play, damaged, deteriorated or dud shells shall either be
returned to the supplier or destroyed in accordance with the
supplier's instructions and Section 3304.10.
Exception: Minor repairs to fuses shall be allowed. For
electrically ignited displays, attachment of electric
matches and similar tasks shall be allowed.
3308.5.4 Sorting and separation. After delivery to the dis-
play site and prior to the display, all shells shall be separated
according to size and their designation as salutes.
Exception: For electrically fired displays, or displays
where all shells are loaded into mortars prior to the show,
there is no requirement for separation of shells according
to size or their designation as salutes.
3308.5.5 Ready boxes. Display fireworks (Division 1.3G)
that will be temporarily stored at the site during the fire-
works display shall be stored in ready boxes located upwind
and at least 25 feet (7620 mm) from the mortar placement
and separated according to size and their designation as
salutes.
Exception: For electrically fired displays, or displays
where all shells are loaded into mortars prior to the show,
there is no requirement for separation of shells according
to size, their designation as salutes, or for the use of ready
boxes.
3308.6 Installation of mortars. Mortars for firing fireworks
shells shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 1123 and
shall be positioned so that shells are propelled away from spec-
tators and over the fallout area. Under no circumstances shall
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mortars be angled toward the spectator viewing area. Prior to
placement, mortars shall be inspected for defects, such as
dents, bent ends, damaged interiors and damaged plugs. Defec-
tive mortars shall not be used.
3308.7 Handling. Aerial shells shall be carried to mortars by
the shell body. For the purpose of loading mortars, aerial shells
shall be held by the thick portion of the fuse and carefully
loaded into mortars.
3308.8 Display supervision. Whenever in the opinion of the
fire code official or the operator a hazardous condition exists,
the fireworks display shall be discontinued immediately until
such time as the dangerous situation is corrected.
3308.9 Post-display inspection. After the display, the firing
crew shall conduct an inspection of the fallout area for the pur-
pose of locating unexploded aerial shells or live components.
This inspection shall be conducted before public access to the
site shall be allowed. Where fireworks are displayed at night
and it is not possible to inspect the site thoroughly, the operator
or designated assistant shall inspect the entire site at first light.
A report identifying any shells that fail to ignite in, or discharge
from, a mortar or fail to function over the fallout area or other-
wise malfunction shall be filed with the fire code official.
3308.10 Disposal. Any shells found during the inspection
required in Section 3308.9 shall not be handled until at least 15
minutes have elapsed from the time the shells were fired. The
fireworks shall then be doused with water and allowed to
remain for at least 5 additional minutes before being placed in a
plastic bucket or fiberboard box. The disposal instructions of
the manufacturer as provided by the fireworks supplier shall
then be followed in disposing of the fireworks in accordance
with Section 3304.10.
3308.11 Retail display and sale. Fireworks displayed for
retail sale shall not be made readily accessible to the public. A
minimum of one pressurized-water portable fire extinguisher
complying with Section 906 shall be located not more than 15
feet (4572 mm) and not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the
hazard. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall
be conspicuously posted in areas where fireworks are stored or
displayed for retail sale.
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CHAPTER 34
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
SECTION 3401
GENERAL
3401.1 Scope and application. Prevention, control and miti-
gation of dangerous conditions related to storage, use, dispens-
ing, mixing and handling of flammable and combustible
liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
3401.2 Nonapplicability. This chapter shall not apply to liq-
uids as otherwise provided in other laws or regulations or chap-
ters of this code, including:
1. Specific provisions for flammable liquids in motor
fuel-dispensing facilities, repair garages, airports and
marinas in Chapter 22.
2. Medicines, foodstuffs, cosmetics, and conunercial, insti-
tutional and industrial products in the same concentra-
tion and packaging containing not more than 50 percent
by volume of water-miscible liquids and with the
remainder of the solution not being flammable, and alco-
holic beverages in retail or wholesale sales or storage
uses when packaged in individual containers not exceed-
ing 1.3 gallons (5 L).
3. Storage and use of fuel oil in tanks and containers con-
nected to oil-burning equipment. Such storage and use
shall be in accordance with Section 603. For abandon-
ment of fuel oil tanks, this chapter applies.
4. Refrigerant liquids and oils in refrigeration systems (see
Section 606).
5. Storage and display of aerosol products complying with
Chapter 28.
6. Storage and use of liquids that have no fire point when
tested in accordance with ASTM D 92.
7. Liquids with a flashpoint greater than 95°F (35°C) in a
water-miscible solution or dispersion with a water and
inert (noncombustible) solids content of more than 80
percent by weight, which do not sustain combustion.
8. Liquids without flash points that can be flammable under
some conditions, such as certain halogenated hydrocar-
bons and mixtures containing halogenated hydrocar-
bons.
9. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden bar-
rels and casks.
3401.3 Referenced documents. The applicable requirements
of Chapter 27, other chapters of this code, the International
Building Code and the International Mechanical Code pertain-
ing to flammable liquids shall apply.
3401.4 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
3401.5 Material classification. Flammable and combustible
liquids shall be classified in accordance with the definitions in
Section 3402.1.
When mixed with lower flash-point liquids. Class II or HI
liquids are capable of assuming the characteristics of the lower
flash-point liquids. Under such conditions the appropriate pro-
visions of this chapter for the actual flash point of the mixed liq-
uid shall apply. When heated above their flash points, Class II
and III liquids assume the characteristics of Class I liquids.
Under such conditions, the appropriate provisions of this chap-
ter for flammable liquids shall apply.
SECTION 3402
DEFINITIONS
3402.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ALCOHOL-BASED HAND RUB. An alcohol-containing
preparation designed for application to the hands for reducing
the number of viable microorganisms on the hands and con-
taining ethanol or isopropanol in an amount not exceeding 70
percent by volume.
BULK PLANT OR TERMINAL. That portion of a property
where flammable or combustible liquids are received by tank
vessel, pipelines, tank car or tank vehicle and are stored or
blended in bulk for the purpose of distributing such liquids by
tank vessel, pipeline, tank car, tank vehicle, portable tank or
container.
BULK TRANSFER. The loading or unloading of flammable
or combustible liquids from or between tank vehicles, tank cars
or storage tanks.
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID. A liquid having a closed cup
flash point at or above 100°F (38°C). Combustible liquids shall
be subdivided as follows:
Class II. Liquids having a closed cup flash point at or above
100°F (38°C) and below 140°F (60°C).
Class IIIA. Liquids having a closed cup flash point at or
above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93°C).
Class IIIB. Liquids having closed cup flash points at or
above 200°F (93°C).
The category of combustible liquids does not include com-
pressed gases or cryogenic fluids.
FIRE POINT. The lowest temperature at which a liquid will
ignite and achieve sustained burning when exposed to a test
flame in accordance with ASTM D 92.
FLAMMABLE LIQUID. A liquid having a closed cup flash
point below 100°F (38°C). Flammable Hquids are further cate-
gorized into a group known as Class I hquids. The Class I cate-
gory is subdivided as follows:
Class lA. Liquids having a flash point below 73 °F (23 °C)
and having a boiling point below 100°F (38°C).
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Class IB. Liquids having a flash point below 73 °F (23 °C)
and having a boiUng point at or above 100°F (38°C).
Class IC. Liquids having a flash point at or above 73 °F
(23°C) and below 100°F (38°C).
The category of flammable liquids does not include com-
pressed gases or cryogenic fluids.
FLASH POINT. The minimum temperature in degrees Fahr-
enheit at which a liquid will give off sufiicient vapors to form
an ignitable mixture with air near the surface or in the con-
tainer, but will not sustain combustion. The flash point of a liq-
uid shall be determined by appropriate test procedure and
apparatus as specified in ASTM D 56, ASTM D 93 or ASTM D
3278.
FUEL LIMIT SWITCH. A mechanism, located on a tank
vehicle, that limits the quantity of product dispensed at one
time.
LIQUID STORAGE ROOM. A room classified as a Group
H-3 occupancy used for the storage of flammable or combusti-
ble liquids in a closed condition.
LIQUID STORAGE WAREHOUSE. A building classified
as a Group H-2 or H-3 occupancy used for the storage of flam-
mable or combustible liquids in a closed condition.
MOBILE FUELING. The operation of dispensing liquid
fuels from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles.
Mobile fueling may also be known by the terms "Mobile fleet
fueling," "Wet fueling" and "Wet hosing."
PROCESS TRANSFER. The transfer of flammable or com-
bustible liquids between tank vehicles or tank cars and process
operations. Process operations may include containers, tanks,
piping and equipment.
REFINERY. A plant in which flammable or combustible liq-
uids are produced on a commercial scale from crude petro-
leum, natural gasoline or other hydrocarbon sources.
REMOTE EMERGENCY SHUTOFF DEVICE. The com-
bination of an operator-carried signaling device and a mecha-
nism on the tank vehicle. Activation of the remote emergency
shutoff device sends a signal to the tanker-mounted mechanism
and causes fuel flow to cease.
REMOTE SOLVENT RESERVOIR. A liquid solvent con-
tainer enclosed against evaporative losses to the atmosphere
during periods when the container is not being utilized, except
for a solvent return opening not larger than 16 square inches
(10 322 mm^). Such return allows pump-cycled used solvent to
drain back into the reservoir from a separate solvent sink or
work area.
SOLVENT DISTILLATION UNIT. An appliance that
receives contaminated flammable or combustible liquids and
which distills the contents to remove contaminants and recover
the solvents.
TANK, PRIMARY. A listed atmospheric tank used to store
liquid. See "Primary containment."
TANK, PROTECTED ABOVE GROUND. A tank listed in
accordance with UL 2085 consisting of a primary tank pro-
vided with protection from physical damage and fire-resistive
protection from a high-intensity liquid pool fire exposure. The
tank may provide protection elements as a unit or may be an
assembly of components, or a combination thereof.
SECTION 3403
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3403.1 Electrical. Electrical wiring and equipment shall be
installed and maintained in accordance with the ICC Electrical
Code.
3403.1.1 Classified locations for flammable liquids.
Areas where flammable liquids are stored, handled, dis-
pensed or mixed shall be in accordance with Table 3403 .1.1.
A classified area shall not extend beyond an unpierced floor,
roof or other solid partition.
The extent of the classified area is allowed to be reduced,
or eliminated, where sufficient technical justification is pro-
vided to the fire code official that a concentration in the area
in excess of 25 percent of the lower flammable limit (LFL)
cannot be generated.
3403.1.2 Classified locations for combustible liquids.
Areas where Class II or III liquids are heated above their
flash points shall have electrical installations in accordance
with Section 3403.1.1.
Exception: Solvent distillation units in accordance with
Section 3405.4.
3403.1.3 Other applications. The fire code official is
authorized to determine the extent of the Class I electrical
equipment and wiring location when a condition is not spe-
cifically covered by these requirements or the ICC Electri-
cal Code.
3403.2 Fire protection. Fire protection for the storage, use,
dispensing, mixing, handling and on-site transportation of
flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with
this chapter and applicable sections of Chapter 9.
3403.2.1 Portable fire extinguishers and hose lines. Por-
table fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with
Section 906. Hose lines shall be provided in accordance
with Section 905.
3403.3 Site assessment. In the event of a spill, leak or dis-
charge from a tank system, a site assessment shall be completed
by the owner or operator of such tank system if the fire code
official determines that a potential fire or explosion hazard
exists. Such site assessments shall be conducted to ascertain
potential fire hazards and shall be completed and submitted to
the fire department within a time period established by the fire
code official, not to exceed 60 days.
3403.4 Spill control and secondary containment. Where the
maximum allowable quantity per control area is exceeded, and
when required by Section 2704.2, rooms, buildings or areas
used for storage, dispensing, use, mixing or handling of Class I,
II and III-A liquids shall be provided with spill control and sec-
ondary containment in accordance with Section 2704.2.
306
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
TABLE 3403.1.1
CLASS I ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT LOCATIONS^
LOCATION
GROUP D DIVISION
EXTENT OF CLASSIFIED AREA
Underground tank fill opening
1
2
Pits, boxes or spaces below grade level, any part of which is within the Division 1 or 2
classified area.
Up to 18 inches above grade level within a horizontal radius of 10 feet from a loose-fill
connection and within a horizontal radius of 5 feet from a tight-fill connection.
Vent- — Discharging upward
1
2
Within 3 feet of open end of vent, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 5 feet of open end of vent, extending in all directions.
Drum and container filling
Outdoor or indoor with adequate ventilation
1
2
Within 3 feet of vent and fill opening, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 5 feet from vent of fill opening, extending in all directions. Also
up to 18 inches above floor or grade level within a horizontal radius of 10 feet from
vent or fill opening.
Pumps, bleeders, withdrawal fittings, meters and similar devices
Indoor
Outdoor
2
2
Within 5 feet of any edge of such devices, extending in all directions. Also up to 3 feet
above floor or grade level within 25 feet horizontally from any edge of such devices.
Within 3 feet of any edge of such devices, extending in all directions. Also up to 18
inches horizontally from an edge of such devices.
Pits
Without mechanical ventilation
With mechanical ventilation
Containing valves, fittings or piping, and not within a Division 1 or
2 classified area
1
2
2
Entire area within pit if any part is within a Division 1 or 2 classified area.
Entire area within pit if any part is within a Division 1 or 2 classified area.
Entire pit.
Drainage ditches, separators, impounding basins
Indoor
Outdoor
lor 2
2
Same as pits.
Area up to 18 inches above ditch, separator or basin. Also up to 18 inches above grade
within 15 feet horizontal from any edge.
Tank vehicle and tank car**
Loading through open dome
Loading through bottom connections with atmospheric venting
Office and restrooms
1
2
1
2
Ordinary
Within 3 feet of edge of dome, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 15 feet from edge of dome, extending in all directions.
Within 3 feet of point of venting to atmosphere, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 15 feet from point of venting to atmosphere, extending in all
directions. Also up to 18 inches above grade within a horizontal radius of 10 feet from
point of loading connection.
Where there is an opening to these rooms within the extent of an indoor classified location,
the room shall be classified the same as if the wall, curb or partition did not exist.
(continued)
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TABLE 3403.1.1— continued
CLASS I ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT LOCATIONS^
LOCATION
GROUP D DIVISION
EXTENT OF CLASSIFIED AREA
Tank vehicle and tank car''-continued
Loading through closed dome with atmospheric venting
Loading through closed dome with vapor control
Bottom loading with vapor control or any bottom unloading
1
2
2
2
Within 3 feet of open end of vent, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 15 feet from open end of vent, extending in all directions. Also
within 3 feet of edge of dome, extending in all directions.
Within 3 feet of point of connection of both fill and vapor lines, extending in all
directions.
Within 3 feet of point of connection, extending in all directions. Also up to 18 inches
above grade within a horizontal radius of 10 feet from point of connection.
Storage and repair garage for tank vehicles
1
2
Pits or spaces below floor level.
Area up to 18 inches above floor or grade level for entire storage or repair garage.
Garages for other than tank vehicles
Ordinary
Where there is an opening to these rooms within the extent of an outdoor classified area,
the entire room shall be classified the same as the area classification at the point of the
opening.
Outdoor drum storage
Ordinary
Indoor warehousing where there is no flammable liquid transfer
Ordinary
Where there is an opening to these rooms within the extent of an indoor classified area,
the room shall be classified the same as if the wall, curb or partition did not exist.
Indoor equipment where flammable vapor/air mixtures could exist
under normal operations
1
2
Area within 5 feet of any edge of such equipment, extending in all directions.
Area between 5 feet and 8 feet of any edge of such equipment, extending in all directions.
Also, area up to 3 feet above floor or grade level within 5 feet to 25 feet horizontally
from any edge of such equipment.'^
Outdoor equipment where flammable vapor/air mixtures could
exist under normal operations
1
2
Area within 3 feet of any edge of such equipment, extending in all directions.
Area between 3 feet and 8 feet of any edge of such equipment extending in all directions.
Also, area up to 3 feet above floor or grade level within 3 feet to 10 feet horizontally
from any edge of such equipment.
Tank — Above ground
Shell, ends or roof and dike area
Vent
Floating roof
1
2
1
2
1
Area inside dike where dike height is greater than the distance from the tank to the dike
for more than 50 percent of the tank circumference.
Area within 10 feet from shell, ends or roof of tank. Area inside dikes to level of top of
dike.
Area within 5 feet of open end of vent, extending in all directions.
Area between 5 feet and 10 feet from open end of vent, extending in all directions.
Area above the roof and within the shell.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Locations as classified in the ICC Electrical Code.
b. When classifying extent of area, consideration shall be given to the fact that tank cars or tank vehicles can be spotted at varying points. Therefore, the extremities of the loading or unloading positions shall be used.
c. The release of Class I liquids can generate vapors to the extent that the entire building, and possibly a zone surrounding it, are considered a Class I, Division 2 location.
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3403.5 Labeling and signage. The fire code official is autho-
rized to require warning signs for the purpose of identifying the
hazards of storing or using flammable liquids. Signage for
identification and warning such as for the inherent hazard of
flammable liquids or smoking shall be provided in accordance
with this chapter and Sections 2703.5 and 2703.6.
3403.5.1 Style. Warning signs shall be of a durable material.
Signs warning of the hazard of flammable liquids shall have
white lettering on a red background and shall read: DAN-
GER—FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS. Letters shall not be less
than 3 inches (76 mm) in height and Vj inch (12.7 mm) in
stroke.
3403.5.2 Location. Signs shall be posted in locations as
required by the fire code official. Piping containing flamma-
ble liquids shall be identified in accordance with ASME
A13.1.
3403.5.3 Warning labels. Individual containers, packages
and cartons shall be identified, marked, labeled and plac-
arded in accordance with federal regulations and applicable
state laws.
3403.5.4 Identification. Color coding or other approved
identification means shall be provided on each loading and
unloading riser for flanmiable or combustible liquids to
identify the contents of the tank served by the riser.
3403.6 Piping systems. Piping systems, and their component
parts, for flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accor-
dance with this section.
3403.6.1 Nonapplicability. The provisions of Section
3403.6 shall not apply to gas or oil well installations; piping
that is integral to stationary or portable engines, including
aircraft, watercraft and motor vehicles; and piping in con-
nection with boilers and pressure vessels regulated by the
International Mechanical Code.
3403.6.2 Design and fabrication of system components.
Piping system components shall be designed and fabricated
in accordance with Chapter 5 of NFPA 30, except as modi-
fied by this section.
3403.6.2.1 Special materials. Low-melting-point mate-
rials (such as aluminum, copper or brass), materials that
soften on fire exposure (such as nonmetallic materials)
and nonductile material (such as cast iron) shall be
acceptable for use underground in accordance with
ASME B3 1 .9. When such materials are used outdoors in
above-ground piping systems or within buildings, they
shall be in accordance with ASME B3 1 .9 and one of the
following:
1 . Suitably protected against fire exposure.
2. Located where leakage from failure would not
unduly expose people or structures.
3. Located where leakage can be readily controlled
by operation of accessible remotely located
valves.
In all cases, nonmetallic piping shall be used in accor-
dance with Section 5.3.6 of NFPA 30.
3403.6.3 Testing. Unless tested in accordance with the
applicable section of ASME B31.9, piping, before being
covered, enclosed or placed in use, shall be hydrostatically
tested to 150 percent of the maximum anticipated pressure
of the system, or pneumatically tested to 110 percent of the
maximum anticipated pressure of the system, but not less
than 5 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (34.47 kPa) at
the highest point of the system. This test shall be maintained
for a sufficient time period to complete visual inspection of
joints and connections. For a minimum of 10 minutes, there
shall be no leakage or permanent distortion. Care shall be
exercised to ensure that these pressures are not applied to
vented storage tanks. Such storage tanks shall be tested
independently from the piping.
3403.6.3.1 Existing piping. Existing piping shall be
tested in accordance with this section when the fire code
official has reasonable cause to believe tiiat a leak exists.
Piping that could contain flammable or combustible liq-
uids shall not be tested pneumatically. Such tests shall be
at the expense of the owner or operator.
Exception: Vapor-recovery piping is allowed to be
tested using an inert gas.
3403.6.4 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other
approved means shall be provided to protect piping, valves
or fittings subject to vehicular damage in accordance with
Section 312.
3403.6.5 Protection from corrosion and galvanic action.
Where subject to external corrosion, piping, related
fluid-handling components and supports for both under-
ground and above-ground applications shall be fabricated
from noncorrosive materials, and coated or provided with
corrosion protection. Dissimilar metallic parts that promote
galvanic action shall not be joined.
3403.6.6 Valves. Piping systems shall contain a sufficient
number of manual control valves and check valves to oper-
ate the system properly and to protect the plant under both
normal and emergency conditions. Piping systems in con-
nection with pumps shall contain a sufficient number of
such valves to control properly the flow of liquids in normal
operation and in the event of physical damage or fire expo-
sure.
3403.6.6.1 Backflow protections. Connections to pipe-
lines or piping by which equipment (such as tank cars,
tank vehicles or marine vessels) discharges liquids into
storage tanks shall be provided with check valves or
block valves for automatic protection against backflow
where the piping arrangement is such that backflow from
the system is possible. Where loading and unloading is
done through a common pipe system, a check valve is not
required. However, a block valve shall be provided
which is located so as to be readily accessible or remotely
operable.
3403.6.6.2 Manual drainage. Manual drainage-control
valves shall be located at approved locations remote
from the tanks, diked area, drainage system and
impounding basin to ensure their operation in a fire con-
dition.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
309
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3403.6.7 Connections. Above-ground tanks with connec-
tions located below normal liquid level shall be provided
with internal or external isolation valves located as close as
practical to the shell of the tank. Except for liquids whose
chemical characteristics are incompatible with steel, such
valves, when external, and their connections to the tank
shall be of steel.
3403.6.8 Piping supports. Piping systems shall be substan-
tially supported and protected against physical damage and
excessive stresses arising from settlement, vibration, expan-
sion, contraction or exposure to fire. The supports shall be
protected against exposure to fire by one of the following:
1 . Draining liquid away from the piping system at a min-
imum slope of not less than 1 percent.
2. Providing protection with a fire-resistance rating of
not less than 2 hours.
3. Other approved methods.
3403.6.9 Flexible joints. Flexible joints shall be hsted and
approved and shall be installed on underground liquid,
vapor and vent piping at all of the following locations:
1. Where piping connects to underground tanks.
2. Where piping ends at pump islands and vent risers.
3. At points where differential movement in the piping
can occur.
3403.6.9.1 Fiberglass-reinforced plastic piping. Fiber-
glass-reinforced plastic (FRP) piping is not required to
be provided with flexible joints in locations where both
of the following conditions are present:
1 . Piping does not exceed 4 inches ( 1 02 mm) in diam-
eter.
2. Piping has a straight run of not less than 4 feet
(1219 mm) on one side of the connection when
such connections result in a change of direction.
In lieu of the minimum 4-foot (1219 mm) straight run
length, approved and listed flexible joints are allowed to
be used under dispensers and suction pumps, at sub-
merged pumps and tanks, and where vents extend
above-ground.
3403.6.10 Pipe joints. Joints shall be liquid tight and shall
be welded, flanged or threaded except that listed flexible
connectors are allowed in accordance with Section
3403.6.9. Threaded or flanged joints shall fit tightly by
using approved methods and materials for the type of joint.
Joints in piping systems used for Class I liquids shall be
welded when located in concealed spaces within buildings.
Nonmetallic joints shall be approved and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
Pipe joints that are dependent on the friction characteris-
tics or resiliency of combustible materials for liquid tight-
ness of piping shall not be used in buildings. Piping shall be
secured to prevent disengagement at the fitting.
3403.6.11 Bends. Pipe and tubing shall be bent in accor-
dance with ASME B 3 1.9.
SECTION 3404
STORAGE
3404.1 General. The storage of flammable and combustible
liquids in containers and tanks shall be in accordance with this
section and the applicable sections of Chapter 27.
3404.2 Tank storage. The provisions of this section shall
apply to:
1. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in
fixed above-ground and underground tanks.
2. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in
fixed above-ground tanks inside of buildings.
3. The storage of flanmiable and combustible liquids in
portable tanks whose capacity exceeds 660 gallons
(2498 L).
4. The installation of such tanks and portable tanks.
3404.2.1 Change of tank contents. Tanks subject to
change in contents shall be in accordance with Section
3404.2.7. Prior to a change in contents, the fire code official
is authorized to require testing of a tank.
Tanks that have previously contained Class I liquids shall
not be loaded with Class II or Class III liquids until such
tanks and all piping, pumps, hoses and meters connected
thereto have been completely drained and flushed.
3404.2.2 Use of tank vehicles and tank cars as storage
tanks. Tank cars and tank vehicles shall not be used as stor-
age tanks.
3404.2.3 Labeling and signs. Labeling and signs for stor-
age tanks and storage tank areas shall comply with Sections
3404.2.3.1 and 3404.2.3.2.
3404.2.3.1 Smoking and open flame. Signs shall be
posted in storage areas prohibiting open flames and
smoking. Signs shall comply with Section 3403.5.
3404.2.3.2 Label or placard. Tanks more than 100 gal-
lons (379 L) in capacity, which are permanently installed
or mounted and used for the storage of Class I, II or IIIA
liquids, shall bear a label and placard identifying the
material therein. Placards shall be in accordance with
NFPA 704.
Exceptions:
1. Tanks of 300-gallon (1136 L) capacity or less
located on private property and used for heating
and cooking fuels in single-family dwellings.
2. Tanks located underground.
3404.2.4 Sources of ignition. Smoking and open flames are
prohibited in storage areas in accordance with Section
2703.7.
Exception: Areas designated as smoking and hot work
areas, and areas where hot work permits have been
issued in accordance with this code.
3404.2.5 Explosion control. Explosion control shall be
provided in accordance with Section 911.
3404.2.6 Separation from incompatible materials. Stor-
age of flammable and combustible liquids shall be separated
310
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
from incompatible materials in accordance with Section
2703.9.8.
Grass, weeds, combustible materials and waste Class I, II
or IIIA liquids shall not be accumulated in an unsafe manner
at a storage site.
3404.2.7 Design, construction and general installation
requirements for tanks. The design, fabrication and con-
struction of tanks shall comply with NFPA 30. Each tank
shall bear a permanent nameplate or marking indicating the
standard used as the basis of design.
3404.2.7.1 Materials used in tank construction. The
materials used in tank construction shall be in accor-
dance with NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.2 Pressure limitations for tanks. Tanks shall
be designed for the pressures to which they will be sub-
jected in accordance with NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.3 Tank vents for normal venting. Tank vents
for normal venting shall be installed and maintained in
accordance with Sections 3404.2.7.3.1 through
3404.2.7.3.6.
3404.2.7.3.1 Vent lines. Vent lines from tanks shall
not be used for purposes other than venting unless
approved.
3404.2.7.3.2 Vent-line flame arresters and venting
devices. Vent-line flame arresters and venting devices
shall be installed in accordance with their listings.
Use of flame arresters in piping systems shall be in
accordance with API 2028.
3404.2.7.3.3 Vent pipe outlets. Vent pipe outlets for
tanks storing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located
such that the vapors are released at a safe point outside
of buildings and not less than 12 feet (3658 mm)
above the adjacent ground level. Vapors shall be dis-
charged upward or horizontally away from adjacent
walls to assist in vapor dispersion. Vent outlets shall
be located such that flammable vapors will not be
trapped by eaves or other obstructions and shall be at
least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings or lot
lines of properties that can be built upon. Vent outlets
on atmospheric tanks storing Class IIIB liquids are
allowed to discharge inside a building if the vent is a
normally closed vent.
3404.2.7.3.4 Installation of vent piping. Vent piping
shall be designed, sized, constructed and installed in
accordance with Section 3403.6. Vent pipes shall be
installed such that they will drain toward the tank
without sags or traps in which liquid can collect. Vent
pipes shall be installed in such a manner so as not to be
subject to physical damage or vibration.
3404.2.7.3.5 Manifolding. Tank vent piping shall not
be manifolded unless required for special purposes
such as vapor recovery, vapor conservation or air pol-
lution control.
3404.2.7.3.5.1 Above-ground tanks. For
above-ground tanks, manifolded vent pipes shall
be adequately sized to prevent system pressure
limits from being exceeded when manifolded
tanks are subject to the same fire exposure.
3404.2.7.3.5.2 Underground tanks. For under-
ground tanks, manifolded vent pipes shall be sized
to prevent system pressure limits from being
exceeded when manifolded tanks are filled simul-
taneously.
3404.2.7.3.5.3 Tanks storing Class I liquids.
Vent piping for tanks storing Class I liquids shall
not be manifolded with vent piping for tanks stor-
ing Class II and III liquids unless positive means
are provided to prevent the vapors from Class I liq-
uids from entering tanks storing Class II and III
liquids, to prevent contamination and possible
change in classification of less volatile liquid.
3404.2.7.3.6 Tank venting for tanks and pressure
vessels storing Class IB and IC liquids. Tanks and
pressure vessels storing Class IB or IC liquids shall be
equipped with venting devices which shall be nor-
mally closed except when venting under pressure or
vacuum conditions, or with listed flame arresters. The
vents shall be installed and maintained in accordance
with Section 4.2.5.1 of NFPA 30 or API 2000.
3404.2.7.4 Emergency venting. Stationary,
above-ground tanks shall be equipped with additional
venting that will relieve excessive internal pressure
caused by exposure to fires. Emergency vents for Class I,
II and IIIA liquids shall not discharge inside buildings.
The venting shall be installed and maintained in accor-
dance with Section 4.2.5.2 of NFPA 30.
Exception: Tanks larger than 12,000 gallons (45 420
L) in capacity storing Class IIIB liquids which are not
within the diked area or the drainage path of Class I or
II liquids do not require emergency relief venting.
3404.2.7.5 Tank openings other than vents. Tank
openings for other than vents shall comply with Sections
3404.2.7.5.1 through 3404.2.7.5.8.
3404.2.7.5.1 Connections below liquid level. Con-
nections for tank openings below the liquid level shall
be liquid tight.
3404.2.7.5.2 Filling, emptying and vapor recovery
connections. Filling, emptying and vapor recovery
connections to tanks containing Class I, II or IIIA liq-
uids shall be located outside of buildings at a location
free from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet
(1524 nrni) away from building openings or lot lines
of property that can be built on. Such openings shall
be provided with a liquid-tight cap which shall be
closed when not in use and properly identified.
3404.2.7.5.3 Piping, connections and fittings. Pip-
ing, connections, fittings and other appurtenances
shall be installed in accordance with Section 3403.6.
3404.2.7.5.4 Manual gauging. Openings for manual
gauging, if independent of the fill pipe, shall be pro-
vided with a liquid-tight cap or cover. Covers shall be
kept closed when not gauging. If inside a building.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
311
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
such openings shall be protected against liquid over-
flow and possible vapor release by means of a spring-
loaded check valve or other approved device.
3404.2.7.5.5 Fill pipes and discharge lines. For
top-loaded tanks, a metallic fill pipe shall be designed
and installed to minimize the generation of static elec-
tricity by terminating the pipe within 6 inches (152
mm) of the bottom of the tank, and it shall be installed
in a manner which avoids excessive vibration.
3404.2.7.5.5.1 Class I liquids. For Class I liquids
other than crude oil, gasoline and asphalt, the fill
pipe shall be designed and installed in a manner
which will minimize the possibility of generating
static electricity by terminating within 6 inches
(152 mm) of the bottom of the tank.
3404.2.7.5.5.2 Underground tanks. For under-
ground tanks, fill pipe and discharge lines shall
enter only through the top. Fill lines shall be sloped
toward the tank. Underground tanks for Class I liq-
uids having a capacity greater than 1,000 gallons
(3785 L) shall be equipped with a tight fill device
for connecting the fill hose to the tank.
3404.2.7.5.6 Location of connections that are
made or broken. Filling, withdrawal and
vapor-recovery connections for Class I, II and IIIA
liquids which are made and broken shall be located
outside of buildings at a location away from sources
of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away
from building openings. Such connections shall be
closed and liquid tight when not in use and shall be
properly identified.
3404.2.7.5.7 Protection against vapor release. Tank
openings provided for purposes of vapor recovery
shall be protected against possible vapor release by
means of a spring-loaded check valve or dry-break
connections, or other approved device, unless the
opening is a pipe connected to a vapor processing sys-
tem. Openings designed for combined fill and vapor
recovery shall also be protected against vapor release
unless connection of the liquid delivery line to the fill
pipe simultaneously connects the vapor recovery line.
Connections shall be vapor tight.
3404.2.7.5.8 Overfill prevention. An approved
means or method in accordance with Section
3404.2.9.6.6 shall be provided to prevent the overfill
of all Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage
tanks in refineries, bulk plants or terminals regulated
by Sections 3406.4 or 3406.7 shall have overfill pro-
tection in accordance with API 2350.
Exception: Outside above-ground tanks with a
capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L) or less.
3404.2.7.6 Repair, alteration or reconstruction of
tanks and piping. The repair, alteration or reconstruc-
tion, including welding, cutting and hot tapping of stor-
age tanks and piping that have been placed in service,
shall be in accordance with NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.7 Design of supports. The design of the sup-
porting structure for tanks shall be in accordance with the
International Building Code and NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.8 Locations subject to flooding. Where a tank
is located in an area where it is subject to buoyancy
because of a rise in the water table, flooding or accumu-
lation of water from fire suppression operations, uplift
protection shall be provided in accordance with Sections
4.3.2.6 and 4.3.3.5 of NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.9 Corrosion protection. Where subject to
external corrosion, tanks shall be fabricated from corro-
sion-resistant materials, coated or provided with corro-
sion protection in accordance with Section 4.2.6.1 of
NFPA 30.
3404.2.7.10 Leak reporting. A consistent or accidental
loss of liquid, or other indication of a leak from a tank
system, shall be reported immediately to the fire depart-
ment, the fire code official and other authorities having
jurisdiction.
3404.2.7.10.1 Leaking tank disposition. Leaking
tanks shall be promptly emptied, repaired and
returned to service, abandoned or removed in accor-
dance with Section 3404.2.13 or 3404.2.14.
3404.2.7.11 Tank lining. Steel tanks are allowed to be
lined only for the purpose of protecting the interior from
corrosion or providing compatibility with a material to
be stored. Only those liquids tested for compatibility
with the lining material are allowed to be stored in lined
tanks.
3404.2.8 Vaults. Vaults shall be allowed to be either above
or below grade and shall comply with Sections 3404.2.8.1
through 3404.2.8.18.
3404.2.8.1 Listing required. Vaults shall be listed in
accordance with UL 2245.
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official,
below-grade vaults are allowed to be constructed on
site, provided that the design is in accordance with the
International Building Code and that special inspec-
tions are conducted to verify structural strength and
compliance of the installation with the approved
design in accordance with Section 1707 of the Inter-
national Building Code. Installation plans for
below-grade vaults that are constructed on site shall
be prepared by, and the design shall bear the stamp of,
a professional engineer. Consideration shall be given
to soil and hydrostatic loading on the floors, walls and
lid; anticipated seismic forces; uplifting by ground
water or flooding; and to loads imposed from above
such as traffic and equipment loading on the vault lid.
3404.2.8.2 Design and construction. The vault shall
completely enclose each tank. There shall be no open-
ings in the vault enclosure except those necessary for
access to, inspection of, and filling, emptying and vent-
ing of the tank. The walls and floor of the vault shall be
constructed of reinforced concrete at least 6 inches (152
mm) thick. The top of an above-grade vault shall be con-
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structed of noncombustible material and shall be
designed to be weaker than the walls of the vault, to
ensure that the thrust of an explosion occurring inside the
vault is directed upward before significantly high pres-
sure can develop within the vault.
The top of an at-grade or below-grade vault shall be
designed to relieve safely or contain the force of an
explosion occurring inside the vault. The top and floor of
the vault and the tank foundation shall be designed to
withstand the anticipated loading, including loading
from vehicular traffic, where applicable. The walls and
floor of a vault installed below grade shall be designed to
withstand anticipated soil and hydrostatic loading.
Vaults shall be designed to be wind and earthquake
resistant, in accordance with the International Building
Code.
3404.2.8.3 Secondary containment. Vaults shall be
substantially liquid tight and there shall be no backfill
around the tank or within the vault. The vault floor shall
drain to a sump. For premanufactured vaults, liquid tight-
ness shall be certified as part of the listing provided by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory. For
field-erected vaults, liquid tightness shall be certified in
an approved manner.
3404.2.8.4 Internal clearance. There shall be sufficient
clearance between the tank and the vault to allow for
visual inspection and maintenance of the tank and its
appurtenances. Dispensing devices are allowed to be
installed on tops of vaults.
3404.2.8.5 Anchoring. Vaults and their tanks shall be
suitably anchored to withstand uplifting by ground water
or flooding, including when the tank is empty.
3404.2.8.6 Vehicle impact protection. Vaults shall be
resistant to damage from the impact of a motor vehicle,
or vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accor-
dance with Section 312.
3404.2.8.7 Arrangement. Tanks shall be listed for
above-ground use, and each tank shall be in its own vault.
Compartmentalized tanks shall be allowed and shall be
considered as a single tank. Adjacent vaults shall be
allowed to share a common wall. The common wall shall
be liquid and vapor tight and shall be designed to with-
stand the load imposed when the vault on either side of
the wall is filled with water.
3404.2.8.8 Connections. Connections shall be provided
to permit venting of each vault to dilute, disperse and
remove vapors prior to personnel entering the vault.
3404.2.8.9 Ventilation. Vaults that contain tanks of Class
I liquids shall be provided with an exhaust ventilation sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section 2704.3. The ven-
tilation system shall operate continuously or be designed
to operate upon activation of the vapor or liquid detection
system. The system shall provide ventilation at a rate of
not less than 1 cubic foot per minute (cfm) per square foot
of floor area [0.00508 mVis ■ m^)], but not less than 150
cfm (0.071 mVs). The exhaust system shall be designed to
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
provide air movement across all parts of the vault floor.
Supply and exhaust ducts shall extend to within 3 inches
(76 mm), but not more than 12 inches (305 mm), of the
floor. The exhaust system shall be installed in accordance
with the International Mechanical Code.
3404.2.8.10 Liquid detection. Vaults shall be equipped
with a detection system capable of detecting liquids,
including water, and activating an alarm.
3404.2.8.11 Monitoring and detection. Vaults shall be
provided with approved vapor and liquid detection sys-
tems and equipped with on-site audible and visual warn-
ing devices with battery backup. Vapor detection
systems shall sound an alarm when the system detects
vapors that reach or exceed 25 percent of the lower
explosive limit (LEL) of the liquid stored. Vapor detec-
tors shall be located no higher than 12 inches (305 mm)
above the lowest point in the vault. Liquid detection sys-
tems shall sound an alarm upon detection of any liquid,
including water. Liquid detectors shall be located in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Activa-
tion of either vapor or liquid detection systems shall
cause a signal to be sounded at an approved, constantiy
attended location within the facility serving the tanks or
at an approved location. Activation of vapor detection
systems shall also shut off dispenser pumps.
3404.2.8.12 Liquid removal. Means shall be provided
to recover liquid from the vault. Where a pump is used to
meet this requirement, the pump shall not be perma-
nently installed in the vault. Electric-powered portable
pumps shall be suitable for use in Class I, Division 1
locations, as defined in the ICC Electrical Code.
3404.2.8.13 Normal vents. Vent pipes that are provided
for normal tank venting shall terminate at least 12 feet
(3658 mm) above ground level.
3404.2.8.14 Emergency vents. Emergency vents shall
be vapor tight and shall be allowed to discharge inside the
vault. Long-bolt manhole covers shall not be allowed for
this purpose.
3404.2.8.15 Accessway. Vaults shall be provided with an
approved personnel accessway with a minimum dimen-
sion of 30 inches (762 mm) and with a permanently
affixed, nonferrous ladder. Accessways shall be
designed to be nonsparking. Travel distance from any
point inside a vault to an accessway shall not exceed 20
feet (6096 mm). At each entry point, a warning sign indi-
cating the need for procedures for safe entry into con-
fined spaces shall be posted. Entry points shall be
secured against unauthorized entry and vandalism.
3404.2.8.16 Fire protection. Vaults shall be provided
with a suitable means to admit a fire suppression agent.
3404.2.8.17 Classified area. The interior of a vault con-
taining a tank that stores a Class I liquid shall be desig-
nated a Class I, Division 1 location, as defined in the ICC
Electrical Code.
3404.2.8.18 Overfill protection. Overfill protection
shall be provided in accordance with Section
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3404.2.9.6.6. The use of a float vent valve shall be pro-
hibited.
3404.2.9 Above-ground tanks. Above-ground storage of
flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply
with Section 3404.2 and Sections 3404.2.9.1 through
3404.2.9.6.10.
3404.2.9.1 Fire protection. Fire protection for
above-ground tanks shall comply with Sections
3404.2.9.1.1 through 3404.2.9.1.4.
3404.2.9.1.1 Required foam fire protection sys-
tems. When required by the fire code official, foam
fire protection shall be provided for above-ground
tanks, other than pressure tanks operating at or above
1 pound per square inch gauge (psig) (6.89 kPa) when
such tank, or group of tanks spaced less than 50 feet
(15 240 mm) apart measured shell to shell, has a Hq-
uid surface area in excess of 1,500 square feet (139
m^), and is in accordance with one of the following:
1. Used for the storage of Class I or II liquids.
2. Used for the storage of crude oil.
3. Used for in-process products and is located
within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of a fired still,
heater, related fractioning or processing appa-
ratus or similar device at a processing plant or
petroleum refinery as herein defined.
4. Considered by the fire code official as posing
an unusual exposure hazard because of topo-
graphical conditions; nature of occupancy,
proximity on the same or adjoining property,
and height and character of liquids to be stored;
degree of private fire protection to be provided;
and facilities of the fire department to cope with
flanmiable liquid fires.
3404.2.9.1.2 Foam fire protection system installa-
tion. Where foam fire protection is required, it shall
be installed in accordance with NFPA 1 1 and NFPA
UA.
3404.2.9.1.2.1 Foam storage. Where foam fire
protection is required, foam-producing materials
shall be stored on the premises.
Exception: Storage of foam-producing materi-
als off the premises is allowed as follows:
1. Such materials stored off the premises
shall be of the proper type suitable for use
with the equipment at the installation
where required.
2. Such materials shall be readily available
at the storage location at all times.
3. Adequate loading and transportation
facilities shall be provided.
4. The time required to deliver such materi-
als to the required location in the event of
fire shall be consistent with the hazards
and fire scenarios for which the foam
supply is intended.
5. At the time of a fire, these off-premises
supplies shall be accumulated in suffi-
cient quantities before placing the equip-
ment in operation to ensure foam
production at an adequate rate without
interruption until extinguishment is
accomplished.
3404.2.9.1.3 Fire protection of supports. Supports
or pilings for above-ground tanks storing Class I, II or
IIIA Hquids elevated more than 12 inches (305 mm)
above grade shall have a fire-resistance rating of not
less than 2 hours in accordance with the fire exposure
criteria specified in ASTM E 1529.
Exceptions:
1 . Structural supports tested as part of a pro-
tected above-ground tank in accordance
with UL 2085.
2. Stationary tanks located outside of buildings
when protected by an approved water-spray
system designed in accordance with Chapter
9 and NFPA 15.
3. Stationary tanks located inside of buildings
equipped throughout with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system designed in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1.
3404.2.9.1.4 Inerting of tanks with boilover liq-
uids. Liquids with boilover characteristics shall not
be stored in fixed roof tanks larger than 150 feet (45
720 mm) in diameter unless an approved gas enrich-
ment or inerting system is provided on the tank.
Exception: Crude oil storage tanks in production
fields with no other exposures adjacent to the stor-
age tank.
3404.2.9.2 Supports, foundations and anchorage.
Supports, foundations and anchorages for above-ground
tanks shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with NFPA 30 and the International Building Code.
3404.2.9.3 Stairs, platforms and walkways. Stairs,
platforms and walkways shall be of noncombustible con-
struction and shall be designed and constructed in accor-
dance with NFPA 30 and the International Building
Code.
3404.2.9.4 Above-ground tanks inside of buildings.
Tanks storing Class I, II and IIIA liquids inside buildings
shall be equipped with a device or other means to prevent
overflow into the building including, but not limited to: a
float valve; a preset meter on the fill line; a valve actuated
by the weight of the tanks contents; a low head pump
which is incapable of producing overflow; or a liq-
uid-tight overflow pipe at least one pipe size larger than
the fill pipe and discharging by gravity back to the out-
side source of liquid or to an approved location.
3404.2.9.5 Above-ground tanks outside of buildings.
Above-ground tanks outside of buildings shall comply
with Sections 3404.2.9.5.1 through 3404.2.9.5.3.
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3404.2.9.5.1 Locations where above-ground tanks
are prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in
above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited
within the limits established by law as the limits of
districts in which such storage is prohibited (see Sec-
tion 3 of the Sample Ordinance for Adoption of the
International Fire Code on page v).
3404.2.9.5.1.1 Location of tanks with pressures
2.5 psig or less. Above-ground tanks operating at
pressures not exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) for stor-
age of Class I, n or ULA liquids, which are designed
with a floating roof, a weak roof-to-shell seam or
equipped with emergency venting devices hmiting
pressure to 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa), shall be located in
accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.1(a) of NFPA 30.
Exceptions:
1 . Vertical tanks having a weak roof-to-shell
seam and storing Class IIIA liquids are
allowed to be located at one-half the dis-
tances specified in Table 4.3.2.1.1(a) of
NFPA 30, provided the tanks are not
within a diked area or drainage path for a
tank storing Class I or 11 Uquids.
2. Liquids with boilover characteristics and
unstable liquids in accordance with Sec-
tions 3404.2.9.5.1.3 and 3404.2.9.5.1.4.
3. For protected above-ground tanks in
accordance with Section 3404.2.9.6 and
tanks in at-grade or above-grade vaults in
accordance with Section 3404.2.8, the
distances in Table 4.3.2.1.1(b) of NFPA
30 shall apply and shall be reduced by
one-half, but not to less than 5 feet (1524
mm).
3404.2.9.5.1.2 Location of tanks with pressures
exceeding 2.5 psig. Above-ground tanks for the
storage of Class I, IT or IIIA liquids operating at
pressures exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) or
equipped with emergency venting allowing pres-
sures to exceed 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) shall be located
in accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.2 of NFPA 30.
Exception: Liquids with boilover characteris-
tics and unstable liquids in accordance with
Sections 3404.2.9.5.1.4 and 3404.2.9.5.1.5.
3404.2.9.5.1.3 Location of tanks for boilover
liquids. Above-ground tanks for storage of liquids
with boilover characteristics shall be located in
accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.3 of NFPA 30.
3404.2.9.5.1.4 Location of tanks for unstable
liquids. Above-ground tanks for the storage of
unstable liquids shall be located in accordance
with Table 4.3.2.1.4 of NFPA 30.
3404.2.9.5.1.5 Location of tanks for Class IIIB
liquids. Above-ground tanks for the storage of
Class IIIB liquids, excluding unstable liquids,
shall be located in accordance with Table 4.3.2. 1 .5
of NFPA 30, except when located within a diked
area or drainage path for a tank or tanks storing
Class I or II liquids. Where a Class IIIB liquid stor-
age tank is within the diked area or drainage path
for a Class I or II liquid, distances required by Sec-
tion 3404.2.9.5.1.1 shall apply.
3404.2.9.5.1.6 Reduction of separation dis-
tances to adjacent property. Where two tank
properties of diverse ownership have a common
boundary, the fire code official is authorized to,
with the written consent of the owners of the two
properties, apply the distances in Sections
3404.2.9.5.1.2 through 3404.2.9.5.1.5 assuming a
single property.
3404.2.9.5.2 Separation between adjacent stable
or unstable liquid tanks. The separation between
tanks containing stable liquids shall be in accordance
with Table 4.3.2.2.1 of NFPA 30. Where tanks are in a
diked area containing Class I or II liquids, or in the
drainage path of Class I or II liquids, and are com-
pacted in three or more rows or in an irregular pattern,
the fire code official is authorized to require greater
separation than specified in Table 4.3.2.2.1 of NFPA
30 or other means to make tanks in the interior of the
pattern accessible for fire-fighting purposes.
Exception: Tanks used for storing Class IIIB liq-
uids are allowed to be spaced 3 feet (914 mm) apart
unless within a diked area or drainage path for a
tank storing Class I or II liquids.
The separation between tanks containing unstable
liquids shall not be less than one-half the sum of their
diameters.
3404.2.9.5.3 Separation between adjacent tanks
containing flammable or combustible liquids and
LP-gas. The minimum horizontal separation between
an LP-gas container and a Class I, II or IIIA liquid
storage tank shall be 20 feet (6096 mm) except in the
case of Class I, 11 or IIIA liquid tanks operating at
pressures exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) or equipped
with emergency venting allowing pressures to exceed
2.5 psig (17.2 kPa), in which case the provisions of
Section 3404.2.9.5.2 shall apply.
An approved means shall be provided to prevent
the accumulation of Class I, II or IIIA liquids under
adjacent LP-gas containers such as by dikes, diver-
sion curbs or grading. When flammable or combusti-
ble liquid storage tanks are within a diked area, the
LP-gas containers shall be outside the diked area and
at least 10 feet (3048 mm) away from the centerline of
the wall of the diked area.
Exceptions:
1. Liquefied petroleum gas containers of 125
gallons (473 L) or less in capacity installed
adjacent to fuel-oil supply tanks of 660 gal-
lons (2498 L) or less in capacity.
2. Horizontal separation is not required
between above-ground LP-gas containers
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
and underground flammable and combusti-
ble liquid tanks.
3404.2.9.6 Additional requirements for protected
above-ground tanks. In addition to the requirements of
this chapter for above-ground tanks, the installation of
protected above-ground tanks shall be in accordance
with Sections3404.2.9.6.1 through 3404.2.9.6.10.
3404.2.9.6.1 Tank construction. The construction of
a protected above-ground tank and its primary tank
shall be in accordance with Section 3404.2.7.
3404.2.9.6.2 Normal and emergency venting. Nor-
mal and emergency venting for protected
above-ground tanks shall be provided in accordance
with Sections 3404.2.7.3 and 3404.2.7.4. The vent
capacity reduction factor shall not be allowed.
3404.2.9.6.3 Flame arresters. Approved flame
arresters or pressure vacuum breather valves shall be
installed in normal vents.
3404.2.9.6.4 Secondary containment. Protected
above-ground tanks shall be provided with secondary
containment, drainage control or diking in accor-
dance with Section 2704.2. A means shall be pro-
vided to establish the integrity of the secondary
containment in accordance with NFPA 30.
3404.2.9.6.5 Vehicle impact protection. Where pro-
tected above-ground tanks, piping, electrical conduit
or dispensers are subject to vehicular impact, they
shall be protected therefrom, either by having the
impact protection incorporated into the system design
in compliance with the impact test protocol of UL
2085, or by meeting the provisions of Section 3 12, or
where necessary, a combination of both. Where guard
posts or other approved barriers are provided, they
shall be independent of each above-ground tank.
3404.2.9.6.6 Overfill prevention. Protected
above-ground tanks shall not be filled in excess of 95
percent of their capacity. An overfill prevention sys-
tem shall be provided for each tank. During tank-fill-
ing operations, the system shall comply with one of
the following:
1. The system shall:
1.1. Provide an independent means of notify-
ing the person filling the tank that the
fluid level has reached 90 percent of tank
capacity by providing an audible or
visual alarm signal, providing a tank
level gauge marked at 90 percent of tank
capacity, or other approved means; and
1 .2. Automatically shut off the flow of fuel
to the tank when the quantity of liquid in
the tank reaches 95 percent of tank
capacity. For rigid hose fuel-delivery
systems, an approved means shall be
provided to empty the fill hose into the
tank after the automatic shutoff device
is activated.
2. The system shall reduce the flow rate to not
more than 15 gallons per minute (0.95 L/sec) so
that at the reduced flow rate, the tank will not
overfill for 30 minutes, and automatically shut
off flow into the tank so that none of the fittings
on the top of the tank are exposed to product
because of overfilling.
3404.2.9.6.6.1 Information signs. A permanent
sign shall be provided at the fill point for the tank,
documenting the filling procedure and the tank
calibration chart.
Exception: Where climatic conditions are such
that the sign may be obscured by ice or snow, or
weathered beyond readability or otherwise
impaired, said procedures and chart shall be
located in the office window, lock box or other
area accessible to the person filling the tank.
3404.2.9.6.6.2 Determination of available tank
capacity. The filling procedure shall require the
person filling the tank to determine the gallonage
(literage) required to fill it to 90 percent of capacity
before commencing the fill operation.
3404.2.9.6.7 Fill pipe connections. The fill pipe shall
be provided with a means for making a direct connec-
tion to the tank vehicle's fuel delivery hose so that the
delivery of fuel is not exposed to the open air during
the filling operation. Where any portion of the fill pipe
exterior to the tank extends below the level of the top
of the tank, a check valve shall be installed in the fill
pipe not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the fill
hose connection.
3404.2.9.6.8 Spill containers. A spill container hav-
ing a capacity of not less than 5 gallons (19 L) shall be
provided for each fill connection. For tanks with a top
fill connection, spill containers shall be
noncombustible and shall be fixed to the tank and
equipped with a manual drain valve that drains into
the primary tank. For tanks with a remote fill connec-
tion, a portable spill container shall be allowed.
3404.2.9.6.9 Tank openings. Tank openings in pro-
tected above-ground tanks shall be through the top
only.
3404.2.9.6.10 Antisiphon devices. Approved
antisiphon devices shall be installed in each external
pipe connected to the protected above-ground tank
when the pipe extends below the level of the top of the
tank.
3404.2.10 Drainage and diking. The area surrounding a
tank or group of tanks shall be provided with drainage con-
trol or shall be diked to prevent accidental discharge of liq-
uid from endangering adjacent tanks, adjoining property or
reaching waterways.
Exceptions:
1 . The fire code official is authorized to alter or waive
these requirements based on a technical report
which demonstrates that such tank or group of
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
tanks does not constitute a hazard to other tanks,
waterways or adjoining property, after consider-
ation of special features such as topographical con-
ditions, nature of occupancy and proximity to
buildings on the same or adjacent property, capac-
ity, and construction of proposed tanks and charac-
ter of liquids to be stored, and nature and quantity
of private and public fire protection provided.
2. Drainage control and diking is not required for
listed secondary containment tanks.
3404.2.10.1 Volumetric capacity. The volumetric
capacity of the diked area shall not be less than the great-
est amount of liquid that can be released from the largest
tank within the diked area. The capacity of the diked area
enclosing more than one tank shall be calculated by
deducting the volume of the tanks other than the largest
tank below the height of the dike.
3404.2.10.2 Diked areas containing two or more
tanks. Diked areas containing two or more tanks shall be
subdivided in accordance with NFPA 30.
3404.2.10.3 Protection of piping from exposure fires.
Piping shall not pass through adjacent diked areas or
impounding basins, unless provided with a sealed sleeve
or otherwise protected from exposure to fire.
3404.2.10.4 Combustible materials in diked areas.
Diked areas shall be kept free from combustible materi-
als, drums and barrels.
3404.2.10.5 Equipment, controls and piping in diked
areas. Pumps, manifolds and fire protection equipment
or controls shall not be located within diked areas or
drainage basins or in a location where such equipment
and controls would be endangered by fire in the diked
area or drainage basin. Piping above ground shall be
minimized and located as close as practical to the shell of
the tank in diked areas or drainage basins.
Exceptions:
1. Pumps, manifolds and piping integral to the
tanks or equipment being served which is pro-
tected by intermediate diking, berms, drainage
or fire protection such as water spray, monitors
or resistive coating.
2. Fire protection equipment or controls which are
appurtenances to the tanks or equipment being
protected, such as foam chambers or foam pip-
ing and water or foam monitors and hydrants,
or hand and wheeled extinguishers.
3404.2.11 Underground tanks. Underground storage of
flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply
with Section 3404.2 and Sections 3404.2.11.1 through
3404.2.11.5.2.
3404.2.11.1 Contents. Underground tanks shall not con-
tain petroleum products containing mixtures of a
nonpetroleum nature, such as ethanol or methanol
blends, without evidence of compatibility.
3404.2.11.2 Location. Flammable and combustible hq-
uid storage tanks located underground, either outside or
under buildings, shall be in accordance with all of the fol-
lowing:
1. Tanks shall be located with respect to existing
foundations and supports such that the loads car-
ried by the latter cannot be transmitted to the tank.
2. The distance from any part of a tank storing liquids
to the nearest wall of a basement, pit, cellar, or lot
line shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm).
3. A minimum distance of 1 foot (305 mm), shell to
shell, shall be maintained between underground
tanks.
3404.2.11.3 Depth and cover. Excavation for under-
ground storage tanks shall be made with due care to
avoid undermining of foundations of existing structures.
Underground tanks shall be set on firm foundations and
surrounded with at least 6 inches (152 mm) of
noncorrosive inert material, such as clean sand.
3404.2.11.4 Overfill protection and prevention sys-
tems. Fill pipes shall be equipped with a spill container
and an overfill prevention system in accordance with
NFPA 30.
3404.2.11.5 Leak prevention. Leak prevention for
underground tanks shall comply with Sections
3404.2.11.5.1 and 3404.2.11.5.2.
3404.2.11.5.1 Inventory control. Daily inventory
records shall be maintained for underground storage
tank systems.
3404.2.11.5.2 Leak detection. Underground storage
tank systems shall be provided with an approved
method of leak detection from any component of the
system that is designed and installed in accordance
with NFPA 30.
3404.2.12 Testing. Tank testing shall comply with Sections
3404.2.12.1 and 3404.2.12.2.
3404.2.12.1 Acceptance testing. Prior to being placed
into service, tanks shall be tested in accordance with Sec-
tion 4.4 of NFPA 30.
3404.2.12.2 Testing of underground tanks. Before
being covered or placed in use, tanks and piping con-
nected to underground tanks shall be tested for tightness
in the presence of the fire code official. Piping shall be
tested in accordance with Section 3403.6.3. The system
shall not be covered until it has been approved.
3404.2.13 Abandonment and status of tanks. Tanks taken
out of service shall be removed in accordance with Section
3404.2.14, or safeguarded in accordance with Sections
3404.2.13.1 through 3404.2.13.2.3 and API 1604.
3404.2.13.1 Underground tanks. Underground tanks
taken out of service shall comply with Sections
3404.2.13.1.1 through 3404.2.13.1.5.
3404.2.13.1.1 Temporarily out of service. Under-
ground tanks temporarily out of service shall have the
fill line, gauge opening, vapor return and pump con-
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
nection secure against tampering. Vent lines shall
remain open and be maintained in accordance with
Sections 3404.2.7.3 and 3404.2.7.4.
3404.2.13.1.2 Out of service for 90 days. Under-
ground tanks not used for a period of 90 days shall be
safeguarded in accordance with all the following or be
removed in accordance with Section 3404.2.14:
1. Flammable or combustible liquids shall be
removed from the tank.
2. All piping, including fill line, gauge opening,
vapor return and pump connection, shall be
capped or plugged and secured from tampering.
3. Vent lines shall remain open and be maintained
in accordance with Sections 3404.2.7.3 and
3404.2.7.4.
3404.2.13.1.3 Out of service for one year. Under-
ground tanks that have been out of service for a period
of one year shall be removed from the ground in
accordance with Section 3404.2.14 or abandoned in
place in accordance with Section 3404.2.13.1.4.
3404.2.13.1.4 Tanks abandoned in place. Tanks
abandoned in place shall be as follows:
1. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be
removed from the tank and connected piping.
2. The suction, inlet, gauge, vapor return and
vapor lines shall be disconnected.
3. The tank shall be filled completely with an
approved inert solid material.
Exception: Residential heating oil tanks of
1,100 gallons (4164 L) or less, provided the
fill line is permanently removed to a point
below grade to prevent refilling of the tank.
4. Remaining underground piping shall be capped
or plugged.
5. A record of tank size, location and date of aban-
donment shall be retained.
6. All exterior above-grade fill piping shall be per-
manently removed when tanks are abandoned
or removed.
3404.2.13.1.5 Reinstallation of underground
tanks. Tanks which are to be reinstalled for flamma-
ble or combustible liquid service shall be in accor-
dance with this chapter, ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code (Section VIII), API 12-P, API 1615, UL
58 and UL 1316.
3404.2.13.2 Above-ground tanks. Above-ground tanks
taken out of service shall comply with Sections
3404.2.13.2.1 through 3404.2.13.2.3.
3404.2.13.2.1 Temporarily out of service.
Above-ground tanks temporarily out of service shall
have all connecting lines isolated from the tank and be
secured against tampering.
Exception: In-place fire protection (foam) system
lines.
3404.2.13.2.2 Out of service for 90 days.
Above-ground tanks not used for a period of 90 days
shall be safeguarded in accordance with Section
3404.2. 13. 1 .2 or removed in accordance with Section
3404.2.14.
Exceptions:
1 . Tanks and containers connected to oil burn-
ers that are not in use during the warm sea-
son of the year or are used as a backup
heating system to gas.
2. In-place, active fire protection (foam) sys-
tem lines.
3404.2.13.2.3 Out of service for one year.
Above-ground tanks that have been out of service for
a period of one year shall be removed in accordance
with Section 3404.2.14.
Exception: Tanks within operating facilities.
3404.2.14 Removal and disposal of tanks. Removal and
disposal of tanks shall comply with Sections 3404.2.14.1
and 3404.2.14.2.
3404.2.14.1 Removal. Removal of above-ground and
underground tanks shall be in accordance with all of the
following:
1. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be
removed from the tank and connected piping.
2. Piping at tank openings that is not to be used fur-
ther shall be disconnected.
3. Piping shall be removed from the ground.
Exception: Piping is allowed to be abandoned
in place where the fire code official determines
that removal is not practical. Abandoned piping
shall be capped and safeguarded as required by
the fire code official.
4. Tank openings shall be capped or plugged, leaving
a 0.125-inch to V4-inch-diameter (3.2 mm to 6.4
mm) opening for pressure equalization.
5. Tanks shall be purged of vapor and inerted prior to
removal.
6. All exterior above-grade fill and vent piping shall
be permanently removed.
Exception: Piping associated with bulk plants,
terminal facilities and refineries.
3404.2.14.2 Disposal. Tanks shall be disposed of in
accordance with federal, state and local regulations.
3404.3 Container and portable tank storage. Storage of
flammable and combustible liquids in closed containers that do
not exceed 60 gallons (227 L) in individual capacity and porta-
ble tanks that do not exceed 660 gallons (2498 L) in individual
capacity, and limited transfers incidental thereto, shall comply
with this section.
3404.3.1 Design, construction and capacity of containers
and portable tanks. The design, construction and capacity
of containers for the storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquids
318
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
shall be in accordance with this section and Section 6.2 of
NFPA 30.
3404.3.1.1 Approved containers. Only approved con-
tainers and portable tanks shall be used.
3404.3.2 Liquid storage cabinets. Where other sections of
this code require that liquid containers be stored in storage
cabinets, such cabinets and storage shall be in accordance
with Sections 3404.3.2.1 through 3404.3.2.3.
3404.3.2.1 Design and construction of storage cabi-
nets. Design and construction of liquid storage cabinets
shall be in accordance with this section.
3404.3.2.1.1 Materials. Cabinets shall be listed in
accordance with UL 1275, or constructed of approved
wood or metal in accordance with the following:
1 . Unlisted metal cabinets shall be constructed of
steel having a thickness of not less than 0.044
inch (1.12 mm) (18 gage). The cabinet, includ-
ing the door, shall be double walled with
1 '/2-inch (38 mm) airspace between the walls.
Joints shall be riveted or welded and shall be
tight fitting.
2. Unlisted wooden cabinets, including doors,
shall be constructed of not less than 1-inch (25
mm) exterior grade plywood. Joints shall be
rabbeted and shall be fastened in two directions
with wood screws. Door hinges shall be of steel
or brass. Cabinets shall be painted with an intu-
mescent-type paint.
3404.3.2.1.2 Labeling. Cabinets shall be provided
with a conspicuous label in red letters on contrasting
background which reads: FLAMMABLE — KEEP
FIRE AWAY.
3404.3.2.1.3 Doors. Doors shall be well fitted,
self-closing and equipped with a three-point latch.
3404.3.2.1.4 Bottom. The bottom of the cabinet shall
be liquid tight to a height of at least 2 inches (5 1 mm) .
3404.3.2.2 Capacity. The combined total quantity of liq-
uids in a cabinet shall not exceed 120 gallons (454 L).
3404.3.3 Indoor storage. Storage of flammable and com-
bustible liquids inside buildings in containers and portable
tanks shall be in accordance with this section.
Exceptions:
1 . Liquids in the fuel tanks of motor vehicles, air-
craft, boats or portable or stationary engines.
2. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in
wooden barrels or casks.
3404.3.3.1 Portable fire extinguishers. Approved por-
table fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance
with specific sections of this chapter and Section 906.
3404.3.3.2 Incompatible materials. Materials that will
react with water or other liquids to produce a hazard shall
not be stored in the same room with flammable and com-
bustible liquids in accordance with Section 2703.9.8.
3404.3.3.3 Clear means of egress. Storage of any liq-
uids, including stock for sale, shall not be stored near or
be allowed to obstruct physically the route of egress.
3404.3.3.4 Empty containers or portable tank stor-
age. The storage of empty tanks and containers previ-
ously used for the storage of flammable or combustible
liquids, unless free from explosive vapors, shall be stored
as required for filled containers and portable tanks. Por-
table tanks and containers, when emptied, shall have the
covers or plugs immediately replaced in openings.
3404.3.3.5 Shelf storage. Shelving shall be of approved
construction, adequately braced and anchored. Seismic
requirements shall be in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code.
3404.3.3.5.1 Use of wood. Wood of at least 1 inch (25
mm) nominal thickness is allowed to be used as shelv-
ing, racks, dunnage, scuffboards, floor overlay and
similar installations.
3404.3.3.5.2 Displacement protection. Shelves
shall be of sufficient depth and provided with a lip or
guard to prevent individual containers from being dis-
placed.
Exception: Shelves in storage cabinets or on labo-
ratory furniture specifically designed for such use.
3404.3.3.5.3 Orderly storage. Shelf storage of flam-
mable and combustible liquids shall be maintained in
an orderly manner.
3404.3.3.6 Rack storage. Where storage on racks is
allowed elsewhere in this code, a minimum 4-foot-wide
(1219 mm) aisle shall be provided between adjacentrack
sections and any adjacent storage of liquids. Main aisles
shall be a minimum of 8 feet (2438 mm) wide.
3404.3.3.7 Pile or palletized storage. Solid pile and
palletized storage in liquid warehouses shall be arranged
so that piles are separated from each other by at least 4
feet (1219 mm). Aisles shall be provided and arranged so
that no container or portable tank is more than 20 feet
(6096 mm) from an aisle. Main aisles shall be a mini-
mum of 8 feet (2438 mm) wide.
3404.3.3.8 Limited combustible storage. Limited
quantities of combustible commodities are allowed to be
stored in liquid storage areas where the ordinary com-
bustibles, other than those used for packaging the liq-
uids, are separated from the liquids in storage by a
minimum of 8 feet (2438 mm) horizontally, either by
open aisles or by open racks, and where protection is pro-
vided in accordance with Chapter 9.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
319
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3404.3.3.9 Idle combustible pallets. Storage of empty
or idle combustible pallets inside an unprotected liquid
storage area shall be limited to a maximum pile size of
2,500 square feet (232 m^) and to a maximum storage
height of 6 feet (1829 mm). Storage of empty or idle
combustible pallets inside a protected liquid storage area
shall comply with NFPA 13 and NFPA 230. Pallet stor-
age shall be separated from liquid storage by aisles that
are at least 8 feet (2438 mm) wide.
3404.3.3.10 Containers in piles. Containers in piles
shall be stacked in such a manner as to provide stability
and to prevent excessive stress on container walls. Porta-
ble tanks stored more than one tier high shall be designed
to nest securely, without dunnage. Material-handling
equipment shall be suitable to handle containers and
tanks safely at the upper tier level.
3404.3.4 Quantity limits for storage. Liquid storage quan-
tity limitations shall comply with Sections 3404.3.4.1
through 3404.3.4.4.
3404.3.4.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control
area. For occupancies other than Group M wholesale
and retail sales uses, indoor storage of flammable and
combustible liquids shall not exceed the maximum
allowable quantities per control area indicated in Table
2703.1.1(1) and shall not exceed the additional limita-
tions set forth in this section.
For Group M occupancy wholesale and retail sales
uses, indoor storage of flammable and combustible liq-
uids shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities
per control area indicated in Table 3404.3.4.1.
Storage of hazardous production material flammable
and combustible liquids in Group H-5 occupancies shall
be in accordance with Chapter 18.
3404.3.4.2 Occupancy quantity limits. The following
limits for quantities of stored flammable or combustible
liquids shall not be exceeded:
1. Group A occupancies: Quantities in Group A
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, main-
tenance purposes and operation of equipment, and
shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table
2703.1.1(1).
2. Group B occupancies: Quantities in drinking, din-
ing, office and school uses within Group B occu-
pancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, main-
tenance purposes and operation of equipment, and
shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table
2703.1.1(1).
3. Group E occupancies: Quantities in Group E occu-
pancies shall not exceed that necessary for demon-
stration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance
purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not
exceed quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
4. Group F occupancies: Quantities in dining, office,
and school uses within Group F occupancies shall
not exceed that necessary for demonstration, labo-
ratory work, maintenance purposes and operation
of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
5. Group I occupancies: Quantities in Group I occu-
pancies shall not exceed that necessary for demon-
stration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes
and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed
quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
6. Group M occupancies: Quantities in dining,
office, and school uses within Group M occupan-
cies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstra-
tion, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and
operation of equipment, and shall not exceed
quantities set forth in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) . The max-
imum allowable quantities for storage in whole-
TABLE 3404.3.4.1
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF FLAMMABLE
AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL SALES OCCUPANCIES'
TYPE OF LIQUID
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA (gallons)
Sprinklered'' per footnote
densities and arrangements
Sprinklered per Tables 3404.3.6.3(4) through
3404.3.6.3(8) and Table 3404.3.7.5.1
Nonsprinklered
Class lA
60
60
30
Class IB, IC, II and IIIA
7,500'
15,000'
1,600
Class IIIB
Unlimited
Unlimited
13,200
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^ 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/minAn^.
a. Control areas shall be separated from each other by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier wall.
b. To be considered as sprinklered, a building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system with a design providing minimum densities
as follows:
1 . For uncartoned commodities on shelves 6 feet or less in height where the ceiling height does not exceed 1 8 feet, quantities are those allowed with a minimum
sprinkler design density of Ordinary Hazard Group 2.
2. For cartoned, palletized or racked commodities where storage is 4 feet 6 inches or less in height and where the ceiling height does not exceed 1 8 feet, quanti-
ties are those allowed with a minimum sprinkler design density of 0.21 gallon per minute per square foot over the most remote 1 ,500-square-foot area.
c. Where wholesale and retail sales or storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities are allowed to be increased by 2 percent for
each 1 ,000 square feet of area in excess of 50,000 square feet, up to a maximum of 100 percent of the table amounts. A control area separation is not required. The
cumulative amounts, including amounts attained by having an additional control area, shall not exceed 30,000 gallons.
320
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
sale and retail sales areas shall be in accordance
with Section 3404.3.4.1.
7. Group R occupancies: Quantities in Group R
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
maintenance purposes and operation of equip-
ment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
8. Group S occupancies: Quantities in dining and
office uses within Group S occupancies shall not
exceed that necessary for demonstration, labora-
tory work, maintenance purposes and operation of
equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
3404.3.4.3 Quantities exceeding limits for control
areas. Quantities exceeding those allowed in control
areas set forth in Section 3404.3.4.1 shall be in hquid
storage rooms or liquid storage warehouses in accor-
dance with Sections 3404.3.7 and 3404.3.8.
3404.3.4.4 Liquids for maintenance and operation of
equipment. In all occupancies, quantities of flammable
and combustible liquids in excess of 10 gallons (38 L)
used for maintenance purposes and the operation of
equipment shall be stored in liquid storage cabinets in
accordance with Section 3404.3.2. Quantities not
exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) are allowed to be stored out-
side of a cabinet when in approved containers located in
private garages or other approved locations.
3404.3.5 Storage in control areas. Storage of flammable
and combustible liquids in control areas shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3404.3.5.1 through 3404.3.5.4.
3404.3.5.1 Basement storage. Class I liquids shall be
allowed to be stored in basements in amounts not exceed-
ing the maximum allowable quantity per control area for
use-open systems in Table 2703.1.1(1), provided that
automatic suppression and other fire protection are pro-
vided in accordance with Chapter 9. Class II and IIIA liq-
uids shall also be allowed to be stored in basements,
provided that automatic suppression and other fire pro-
tection are provided in accordance with Chapter 9.
3404.3.5.2 Storage pile lieiglits. Containers having less
than a 30-gallon (1 14 L) capacity which contain Class I
or II liquids shall not be stacked more than 3 feet (914.4
mm) or two containers high, whichever is greater, unless
stacked on fixed shelving or otherwise satisfactorily
secured. Containers of Class I or II liquids having a
capacity of 30 gallons (1 14 L) or more shall not be stored
more than one container high. Containers shall be stored
in an upright position.
3404.3.5.3 Storage distance from ceilings and roofs.
Piles of containers or portable tanks shall not be stored
closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to the nearest beam, chord,
girder or other obstruction, and shall be 3 feet (914 mm)
below sprinkler deflectors or discharge orifices of water
spray or other overhead fire protection system.
3404.3.5.4 Combustible materials. In areas that are
inaccessible to the public. Class I, II and IIIA liquids
shall not be stored in the same pile or rack section as ordi-
nary combustible commodities unless such materials are
packaged together as kits.
3404.3.6 Wholesale and retail sales uses. Flammable and
combustible liquids in Group M occupancy wholesale and
retail sales uses shall be in accordance with Sections
3404.3.6.1 through 3404.3.6.5, or Sections 6.4.3.3, 6.5.6.7,
6.8.2, Tables 6.8.2(a) through (f), and Figures 6.8.2(a)
through (d) of NFPA 30.
3404.3.6.1 Container type. Containers for Class I hq-
uids shall be metal.
Exception: In sprinklered buildings, an aggregate
quantity of 120 gallons (454 L) of water-miscible
Class IB and Class IC liquids is allowed in nonmetal-
lic containers, each having a capacity of 16 ounces
(0.473 L) or less.
3404.3.6.2 Container capacity. Containers for Class I
liquids shall not exceed a capacity of 5 gallons (19 L).
Exception: Metal containers not exceeding 55 gal-
lons (208 L) are allowed to store up to 240 gallons
(908 L) of the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area of Class IB and IC liquids in a control area.
The building shall be equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Table 3404.3.4.1. The containers shall be pro-
vided with plastic caps without cap seals and shall be
stored upright. Containers shall not be stacked or
stored in racks and shall not be located in areas acces-
sible to the pubhc.
3404.3.6.3 Fire protection and storage arrangements.
Fire protection and container storage arrangements shall
be in accordance with Table 3404.3.6.3(1) or the follow-
ing:
1. Storage on shelves shall not exceed 6 feet (1829
mm) in height, and shelving shall be metal.
2. Storage on pallets or in piles greater than 4 feet 6
inches (1372 mm) in height, or where the ceiling
exceeds 18 feet (5486 mm) in height, shall be pro-
tected in accordance with Table 3404.3.6.3(4), and
the storage heights and arrangements shall be lim-
ited to those specified in Table 3404.3.6.3(2).
3 . Storage on racks greater than 4 feet 6 inches (1372
mm) in height, or where the ceiling exceeds 1 8 feet
(5486 mm) in height shall be protected in accor-
dance with Tables 3404.3.6.3(5), 3404.3.6.3(6),
and 3404.3.6.3(7) as appropriate, and the storage
heights and arrangements shall be limited to those
specified in Table 3404.3.6.3(3).
Combustible commodities shall not be stored above
flammable and combustible liquids.
3404.3.6.4 Warning for containers. All cans, contain-
ers and vessels containing flammable liquids or flamma-
ble liquid compounds or mixtures offered for sale shall
be provided with a warning indicator, painted or printed
on the container and stating that the liquid is flammable,
and shall be kept away from heat and an open flame.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
321
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3404.3.6.5 Storage plan. When required by fire the code
official, aisle and storage plans shall be submitted in
accordance with Chapter 27.
3404.3.7 Liquid storage rooms. Liquid storage rooms
shall comply with Sections 3404.3.7.1 through
3404.3.7.5.2.
3404.3.7.1 General. Quantities of liquids exceeding
those set forth in Section 3404.3.4.1 for storage in con-
trol areas shall be stored in a liquid storage room comply-
ing with this section and constructed and separated as
required by the International Building Code.
3404.3.7.2 Quantities and arrangement of storage.
The quantity limits and storage arrangements in liquid
storage rooms shall be in accordance with Tables
3404.3.6.3(2) and 3404.3.6.3(3) and Sections
3404.3.7.2.1 through 3404.3.7.2.3.
3404.3.7.2.1 Mixed storage. Where two or more
classes of liquids are stored in a pile or rack section:
1 . The quantity in that pile or rack shall not exceed
the smallest of the maximum quantities for the
classes of liquids stored in accordance with
Table 3404.3.6.3(2) or 3404.3.6.3(3); and
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(1)
MAXIMUM STORAGE HEIGHT IN CONTROL AREA
TYPE OF LIQUID
NONSPRINKLERED AREA
(feet)
SPRINKLERED AREA
(feet)
SPRINKLERED^ WITH IN-RACK PROTECTION
(feet)
Flammable liquids:
Class lA
Class IB
Class IC
4
4
4
4
8
8
4
12
12
Combustible liquids:
Class II
Class IIIA
Class IIIB
6
8
8
8
12
12
12
16
20
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. In-rack protection shall be in accordance with Table 3404.3.6.3(5), 3404.3.6.3(6) or 3404.3.6.3(7).
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(2)
STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR PALLETIZED OR SOLID-PILE STORAGE IN LIQUID STORAGE ROOMS AND WAREHOUSES
CLASS
STORAGE
LEVEL
MAXIMUM STORAGE HEIGHT
MAXIMUM QUANTITY PER PILE
(gallons)
MAXIMUM QUANTITY PER ROOM^
(gallons)
Drums
Containers''
(feet)
Portable tanks
(feet)
Containers
Portable tanks
Containers
Portable tanks
lA
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
5
5
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
3,000
2,000
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
12,000
8,000
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
Not Allowed
IB
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
6.5
6.5
Not Allowed
7
7
Not Allowed
5,000
3,000
Not Allowed
20,000
10,000
Not Allowed
15,000
12,000
Not Allowed
40,000
20,000
Not Allowed
IC
Ground floor^
Upper floors
Basements
6.5'
6.5'
Not Allowed
7
7
Not Allowed
5,000
3,000
Not Allowed
20,000
10,000
Not Allowed
15,000
12,000
Not Allowed
40,000
20,000
Not Allowed
II
Ground floor''
Upper floors
Basements
3
3
1
10
10
5
14
14
7
10,000
10,000
7,500
40,000
40,000
20,000
25,000
25,000
7,500
80,000
80,000
20,000
ni
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
5
5
3
20
20
10
14
14
7
15,000
15,000
10,000
60,000
60,000
20,000
50,000
50,000
25,000
100,000
100,000
40,000
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon ^ 3.785 L.
a. See Section 3404.3.8.1 for unlimited quantities in Hquid storage warehouses.
b. Storage heights are allowed to be increased for Class IB, IC, II and III liquids in metal containers having a capacity of 5 gallons or less where an automatic
AFFF-water protection system is provided in accordance with Table 3404.3.7.5.1.
c. These height limitations are allowed to be increased to 10 feet for containers having a capacity of 5 gallons or less.
d. For palletized storage of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) in relieving-style metal containers with 50 percent or less by weight Class IC or II liquid and no Class
lA or IB liquid, height and pile quandty limits shall be permitted to be 10 feet and 15,000 gallons, respectively, provided that such storage is protected by sprinklers
in accordance with NFPA 30 and that the UPR storage area is not located in the same containment area or drainage path for other Class I or II liquids.
322
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
2. The height of storage in that pile or rack shall not
exceed the smallest of the maximum heights for
the classes of Uquids stored in accordance with
Table 3404.3.6.3(2) or 3404.3.6.3(3).
3404.3.7.2.2 Separation and aisles. Piles shall be
separated from each other by at least 4-foot (1219
mm) aisles. Aisles shall be provided so that all con-
tainers are 20 feet (6096 mm) or less from an aisle.
Where the storage of liquids is on racks, a minimum
4-foot- wide (1219 mm) aisle shall be provided
between adjacent rows of racks and adjacent storage
of liquids. Main aisles shall be a minimum of 8 feet
(2438 mm) wide.
Additional aisles shall be provided for access to
doors, required windows and ventilation openings,
standpipe connections, mechanical equipment and
switches. Such aisles shall be at least 3 feet (914 mm)
in width, unless greater widths are required for sepa-
ration of piles or racks, in which case the greater
width shall be provided.
3404.3.7.2.3 Stabilizing and supports. Containers
and piles shall be separated by pallets or dunnage to
provide stability and to prevent excessive stress to
container walls. Portable tanks stored over one tier
shall be designed to nest securely without dunnage.
Requirements for portable tank design shall be in
accordance with Chapter 6 of NFPA 30. Shelving,
racks, dunnage, scuffboards, floor overlay and similar
installations shall be of noncombustible construction
or of wood not less than a 1-inch (25 mm) nominal
thickness. Adequate material-handling equipment
shall be available to handle tanks safely at upper tier
levels.
3404.3.7.3 Spill control and secondary containment.
Liquid storage rooms shall be provided with spill control
and secondary containment in accordance with Section
2704.2.
3404.3.7.4 Ventilation. Liquid storage rooms shall be
ventilated in accordance with Section 2704.3.
3404.3.7.5 Fire protection. Fire protection for liquid
storage rooms shall comply with Sections 3404.3.7.5.1
and 3404.3.7.5.2.
3404.3.7.5.1 Fire-extinguishing systems. Liquid
storage rooms shall be protected by automatic sprin-
kler systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9
and Tables 3404.3.6.3(4) through 3404.3.6.3(7) and
Table 3404.3.7.5.1. In-rack sprinklers shall also com-
ply with NFPA 13.
Automatic foam-water systems and automatic
aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) water sprinkler
systems shall not be used except when approved.
Protection criteria developed from fire modeling or
full-scale fire testing conducted at an approved testing
laboratory are allowed in lieu of the protection as
shown in Tables 3404.3.6.3(2) through 3404.3.6.3(7)
and Table 3404.3.7.5.1 when approved.
3404.3.7.5.2 Portable fire extinguishers. A mini-
mum of one approved portable fire extinguisher com-
plying with Section 906 and having a rating of not less
than 20-B shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048
mm) or more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any Class
I or II liquid storage area located outside of a liquid
storage room.
A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher hav-
ing a rating of not less than 20-B shall be located out-
side of, but not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) from, the
door opening into a liquid storage room.
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(3)
STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE IN LIQUID STORAGE ROOMS AND WAREHOUSES
CLASS
TYPE RACK
STORAGE LEVEL
MAXIMUM STORAGE HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM QUANTITY PER ROOM^
(gallons)
Containers
Containers
lA
Double row or Single row
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
25
15
Not Allowed
7,500
4,500
Not Allowed
IB
IC
Double row or Single row
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
25
15
Not Allowed
15,000
9,000
Not Allowed
II
Double row or Single row
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
25
25
15
24,000
24,000
9,000
III
Multirow
Double row
Single row
Ground floor
Upper floors
Basements
40
20
20
48,000
48,000
24,000
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. See Section 3404.3.8.1 for unlimited quantities in liquid storage warehouses.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
323
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(4)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION FOR SOLID-PILE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN CONTAINERS AND PORTABLE TANKS^
STORAGE CONDITIONS
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND
MINIMUM HOSE
STREAM
DEMAND (gpm)
MINIMUM DURATION
SPRINKLERS AND
HOSE STREAMS
(hours)
Class
liquid
Container size and arrangement
Density
(gpm/ft^)
Area (square feet)
Maximum spacing
(square feet)
High-temperature
sprinklers
Ordinary
temperature sprinklers
lA
5 gallons or less, with or
without cartons, palletized or
solid pile''
0.30
3,000
5,000
100
750
2
Containers greater than 5
gallons, on end or side,
palletized or solid pile
0.60
5,000
8,000
80
750
IB,IC
and II
5 gallons or less, with or
without cartons, palletized or
solid pile''
0.30
3,000
5,000
100
500
2
Containers greater than 5
gallons on pallets or solid
pile, one high
0.25
5,000
8,000
100
II
Containers greater than 5
gallons on pallets or solid
pile, more than one high, on
end or side
0.60
5,000
8,000
80
750
2
IB, IC and II
Portable tanks, one high
0.30
3,000
5,000
100
500
2
II
Portable tanks, two high
0.60
5,000
8,000
80
750
2
III
III
5 gallons or less, with or
without cartons, palletized or
soUd pile
0.25
3,000
5,000
120
500
1
Containers greater than 5
gallons on pallets or solid
pile, on end or sides, up to
three high
0.25
3,000
5,000
120
500
1
Containers greater than 5
gallons, on pallets or solid
pile, on end or sides, up to 18
feet high
0.35
3,000
5,000
100
750
2
Portable tanks, one high
0.25
3,000
5,000
120
500
1
Portable tanks, two high
0.50
3,000
5,000
80
750
2
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m~, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/m^.
a. The design area contemplates the use of Class II standpipe systems. Where Class I standpipe systems are used, the area of application shall be increased by 30 percent without revising density.
b. For storage heights above 4 feet or ceiling heights greater than 18 feet, an approved engineering design shall be provided in accordance with Section 104.7.2.
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(5)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY
OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETS^
CLASS LIQUID
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN
AND DEMAND
IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND
MINIMUM
HOSE
STREAM
DEMAND
(gpm)
MINIMUM
DURATION
SPRINKLER
AND HOSE
STREAM
(hours)
Density
(gpm/ff)
Area
(square feet)
Maximum
spacing
Racks up to 9 feet deep
Racks more than 9 feet to 12 feet deep
30psi
(standard orifice)
Number of
sprinklers operating
High-
temperature
sprinklers
Ordinary
temperature
sprinklers
14psi
(large orifice)
I
(maximum
25-foot height)
Option 1
0.40
3,000
5,000
80 ft^/head
1. Ordinary temperature, quick-
response sprinklers, maximum 8
feet 3 inches horizontal spacing
2. One hue sprinklers above each
level of storage
3. Locate in longitudinal flue
space, staggered vertical
4. Shields required where multi-
level
1. Ordinary temperature, quick-
response sprinklers, maximum 8
feet 3 inches horizontal spacing
2. One line sprinklers above each
level of storage
3. Locate in transverse flue spaces,
staggered vertical and within 20
inches of aisle
4. Shields required where multilevel
30psi
(0.5-inch orifice)
1. Eight sprinklers if
only one level
2. Six sprinklers each on
two levels if only two
levels
3. Six sprinklers each on
top three levels, if
three or more levels
4. Hydraulically most
remote
750
2
I
(maximum
25-foot height)
Option 2
0.55
2,000''
Not
Applicable
100 ft^/head
1. Ordinary temperature, quick-
response sprinklers, maximum 8
feet 3 inches horizontal spacing
2. See 2 above
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
1. Ordinary temperature, quick-
response sprinklers, maximum 8
feet 3 inches horizontal spacing
2. See 2 above
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
14psi
(0.53-inch
orifice)
See 1 through 4 above
500
2
landn
(maximum
14-foot storage
height)
(maximum
three tiers)
0.55'^
2,000'''''
Not
Applicable
100 ft^/head
Not Applicable None for
maximum
6-foot-deep racks
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
500
2
n
(maximum
25-foot height)
0.30
3,000
5,000
100 ft^/head
1. Ordinary temperature sprinklers
8 feet apart horizontally
2. One line sprinklers between lev-
els at nearest 10-foot vertical
intervals
3. Locate in longitudinal flue
space, staggered vertical
4 Shields required where multi-
level
1 . Ordinary temperature sprinklers 8
feet apart horizontally
2. Two lines between levels at near-
est 10-foot vertical intervals
3. Locate in transverse flue spaces,
staggered vertical and within 20
inches of aisle
4. Shields required where multilevel
30psi
Hydraulically most
remote — six sprinklers
at each level, up to a
maximum of three
levels
750
2
in
(40-foot height)
0.25
3,000
5,000
120 ft^/head
Same as for
Class 11 liquids
Same as for
Class n liquids
30psi
Same as for
Class n liquids
500
2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m', 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/ml
a. The design area contemplates the use of Class n standpipe systems. Where Class I standpipe systems are used, the area of application shall be increased by 30 percent without revising density.
b. Using listed or approved extra-large orifices, high-temperature quick-response or standard element sprinklers under a maximum 30-foot ceiling with minimum 7.5-foot aisles.
c. For friction lid cans and other metal containers equipped with plastic nozzles or caps, the density shall be increased to 0.65 gpm per square foot using listed or approved extra-large orifice, high-temperature quick-response sprinklers.
d. Using listed or approved extra-large orifice, high-temperature quick-response or standard element sprinklers under a maximum 18-foot ceiling with minimum 7.5-foot aisles and metal containers.
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TABLE 3404.3.6.3(6)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITY^
CLASS LIQUID
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND
DEMAND
IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND
MINIMUM
HOSE
STREAM
DEMAND
(gpm)
MINIMUM
DURATION
SPRINKLER
AND HOSE
STREAM
(hours)
Density
(gpm/ ft')
Area
(square feet)
Maximum
spacing
On-side storage racks
up to 9-foot-deep racks
On-end storage (on
pallets) up to
9-foot-deep racks
Minimum nozzle
pressure
Number of
sprinklers operating
High-
temperature
sprinklers
Ordinary
temperature
sprinklers
lA
(maximum 25 -foot
height)
0.60
3,000
5,000
80 ft'/head
1. Ordinary tempera-
ture sprinklers 8
feet apart horizon-
tally
2. One line sprinklers
above each tier of
storage
3. Locate in longitu-
dinal flue space,
staggered vertical
4. Shields required
where multilevel
1. Ordinary tempera-
ture sprinklers 8
feet apart horizon-
tally
2. One line sprinklers
above each tier of
storage
3. Locate in longitudi-
nal flue space, stag-
gered vertical
4. Shields required
where multilevel
30psi
Hydraulically most
remote — six
sprinklers at each
level
1,000
2
IB, IC and II
(maximum 25-foot
height)
0.60
3,000
5,000
100 ftVhead
1. See 1 above
2. One line sprinklers
every three tiers of
storage
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
1. See 1 above
2. See 2 above
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
30psi
Hydraulically most
remote — six
sprinklers at each
level
750
2
III
(maximum 40-foot
height)
0.25
3,000
5,000
120 ft'/head
1. See 1 above
2. One line sprinklers
every sixth level
(maximum)
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
1. See 1 above
2. One line sprinklers
every third level
(maximum)
3. See 3 above
4. See 4 above
15 psi
Hydrauhcally most
remote — six
sprinklers at each
level
500
1
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For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/m^.
a. The design assumes the use of Class II standpipe systems. Where a Class I standpipe system is used, the area of application shall be increased by 30 percent without revising density.
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(7)
AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITY^"
CLASS LIQUID
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN
AND DEMAND
IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND'^
DURATION
AFFF SUPPLY
(minimum)
DURATION
WATER
SUPPLY
(hours)
Density
(gpm/ft^)
Area
(square feet)
On-end storage of drums
on pallets, up to 25 feet
Minimum nozzle
pressure
(psi)
Number of
sprinklers
operating
Hose stream
demand"
(gpm)
High-temperature
sprinklers
Ordinary
temperature
sprinklers
lA, IB,
IC and II
0.30
1,500
2,500
1. Ordinary temperature sprinkler up
to 10 feet apart horizontally
2. One line sprinklers above each
level of storage
3. Locate in longitudinal flue space,
staggered vertically
4. Shields required for multilevel
30
Three
sprinklers per
level
500
15
2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/m^.
a. System shall be a closed-head wet system with approved devices for proportioning aqueous film-forming foam.
b. Except as modified herein, in-rack sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13.
c. The height of storage shall not exceed 25 feet.
d. Hose stream demand includes 1 Vj-inch inside hand hose, when required.
TABLE 3404.3.6.3(8)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR CLASS I LIQUID STORAGE OF 1 -GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH UNCARTONED OR CASE-CUT SHELF
DISPLAY UP TO 6.5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAY^
STORAGE
HEIGHT
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND
IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND
MINIMUM
HOSE
STREAM
DEMAND
(gpm)
MINIMUM DURATION
SPRINKLERS AND
HOSE STREAM
(hours)
Density
(gpm/ft^)
Area
(square feet)
Maximum
spacing
Racks up to 9 feet deep
Racks 9 to
12 feet
Minimum
nozzle
pressure
Number of sprinklers
operating
High
temperature
Ordinary
temperature
Maximum
20-foot
storage height
0.60
2,000'
Not
Applicable
100
ft'/head
1. Ordinary temperature, quick-
response sprinklers, maximum 8 feet
3 inches horizontal spacing
2. One line of sprinklers at the 6-foot
level and the 1 1 . 5 -foot level of storage
3. Locate in longitudinal flue space,
staggered vertical
4. Shields required where multilevel
Not
AppUcable
30 psi
(standard
orifice) or
14 psi
(large
orifice)
1. Six sprinklers
each on two lev-
els
2. Hydraulically
most remote 12
sprinklers
500
2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^ 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/m^.
a. This table shall not apply to racks with solid shelves.
b. Using extra-large orifice sprinklers under a ceihng 30 feet or less in height. Minimum aisle width is 7.5 feet.
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
TABLE 3404.3.7.5.1
AUTOMATIC AFFF-WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR SOLID-PILE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE OF LIQUIDS
IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS^ "^
PACKAGE
TYPE
CLASS
LIQUID
CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND
STORAGE
HEIGHT
(feet)
HOSE
DEMAND
(gpm)^
DURATION
AFFF
SUPPLY
(minimum)
DURATION
WATER
SUPPLY
(hours)
Density
(gpmm^)
Area
(square feet)
Temperature
rating
Maximum
spacing
Orifice size
(inch)
Cartoned
IB, IC, II
and III
0.40
2,000
286°F
100 ft'/head
0.531
11
500
15
2
Uncartoned
IB, IC, II
and III
0.30
2,000
286°F
100 ft'/head
0.5 or
0.531
12
500
15
2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^ 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/minAn^, °C. = [(°F)-32]/1.8.
a. System shall be a closed-head wet system with approved devices for proportioning aqueous film-forming foam.
b. Maximum ceiling height of 30 feet.
c. Hose stream demand includes iVj-inch inside hand hose, when required.
3404.3.8 Liquid storage warehouses. Buildings used for
storage of flammable or combustible liquids in quantities
exceeding those set forth in Section 3404.3.4 for control
areas and Section 3404.3.7 for liquid storage rooms shall
comply with Sections 3404.3.8.1 through 3404.3.8.5 and
shall be constructed and separated as required by the Inter-
national Building Code.
3404.3.8.1 Quantities and storage arrangement. The
total quantities of liquids in a liquid storage warehouse
shall not be limited. The arrangement of storage shall be
in accordance with Table 3404.3.6.3(2) or 3404.3.6.3(3).
3404.3.8.1.1 Mixed storage. Mixed storage shall be
in accordance with Section 3404.3.7.2.1.
3404.3.8.1.2 Separation and aisles. Separation and
aisles shall be in accordance with Section
3404.3.7.2.2.
3404.3.8.2 Spill control and secondary containment.
Liquid storage warehouses shall be provided with spill
control and secondary containment as set forth in Section
2704.2.
3404.3.8.3 Ventilation. Liquid storage warehouses stor-
ing containers greater than 5 gallons (19 L) in capacity
shall be ventilated at a rate of not less than 0.25 cfm/sq. ft.
(0.075 m^/min per m^) of floor area over the storage area.
3404.3.8.4 Fire-extinguishing systems. Liquid storage
warehouses shall be protected by automatic sprinkler
systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9 and
Tables 3404.3.6.3(4) through 3404.3.6.3(7) and Table
3404.3.7.5.1, or Section 4.8.2 and Tables 4.8.2(a)
through (f) of NFPA 30. In-rack sprinklers shall also
comply with NFPA 13.
Automatic foam-water systems and automatic AFFF
water sprinkler systems shall not be used except when
approved.
Protection criteria developed from fire modeling or
full-scale fire testing conducted at an approved testing
laboratory are allowed in lieu of the protection as shown
in Tables 3404.3.6.3(2) through 3404.3.6.3(7) and Table
3404.3.7.5.1 when approved.
3404.3.8.5 Warehouse hose lines. In liquid storage
warehouses, either 1 V2-inch (38 mm) lined or 1-inch (25
mm) hard rubber hand hose lines shall be provided in suf-
ficient number to reach all liquid storage areas and shall
be in accordance with Section 903 or Section 905.
3404.4 Outdoor storage of containers and portable tanks.
Storage of flammable and combustible liquids in closed con-
tainers and portable tanks outside of buildings shall be in accor-
dance with Section 3403 and Sections 3404.4.1 through
3404.4.8. Capacity limits for containers and portable tanks
shall be in accordance with Section 3404.3.
3404.4.1 Plans. Storage shall be in accordance with
approved plans.
3404.4.2 Location on property. Outdoor storage of liquids
in containers and portable tanks shall be in accordance with
Table 3404.4.2. Storage of liquids near buildings located on
the same property shall be in accordance with this section.
3404.4.2.1 Mixed liquid piles. Where two or more
classes of liquids are stored in a single pile, the quantity
in the pile shall not exceed the smallest of maximum
quantities for the classes of material stored.
3404.4.2.2 Access. Storage of containers or portable
tanks shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads
in accordance with Chapter 5.
3404.4.2.3 Security. The storage area shall be protected
against tampering or trespassers where necessary and
shall be kept free from weeds, debris and other combusti-
ble materials not necessary to the storage.
3404.4.2.4 Storage adjacent to buildings. A maximum
of 1,100 gallons (4163 L) of liquids stored in closed con-
tainers and portable tanks is allowed adjacent to a build-
ing located on the same premises and under the same
management, provided that:
1 . The building does not exceed one story in height.
Such building shall be of fire-resistance-rated con-
struction with noncombustible exterior surfaces or
noncombustible construction and shall be used
principally for the storage of liquids; or
2. The exterior building wall adjacent to the storage
area shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less
328
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
than 2 hours, having no openings to above-grade
areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of
such storage and no openings to below-grade areas
within 50 feet (15 240 mm) horizontally of such
storage.
The quantity of liquids stored adjacent to a building
protected in accordance with Item 2 is allowed to exceed
1,100 gallons (4163 L), provided that the maximum
quantity per pile does not exceed 1,100 gallons (4163 L)
and each pile is separated by a 10-foot-minimum (3048
mm) clear space along the common wall.
Where the quantity stored exceeds 1,100 gallons
(4 1 63 L) adjacent to a building complying with Item 1 , or
the provisions of Item 1 cannot be met, a minimum dis-
tance in accordance with Table 3404.4.2, column 7
("Minimum Distance to Lot Line of Property That Can
Be Built Upon") shall be maintained between buildings
and the nearest container or portable tank.
3404.4.3 Spill control and secondary containment. Stor-
age areas shall be provided with spill control and secondary
containment in accordance with Section 3403.4.
Exception: Containers stored on approved containment
pallets in accordance with Section 2704.2.3 and contain-
ers stored in cabinets and lockers with integral spill con-
tainment.
3404.4.4 Security. Storage areas shall be protected against
tampering or trespassers by fencing or other approved con-
trol measures.
3404.4.5 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other
means shall be provided to protect exterior storage tanks
from vehicular damage. When guard posts are installed, the
posts shall be installed in accordance with Section 312.
3404.4.6 Clearance from combustibles. The storage area
shall be kept free from weeds, debris and combustible mate-
rials not necessary to the storage. The area surrounding an
exterior storage area shall be kept clear of such materials for
a minimum distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).
3404.4.7 Weather protection. Weather protection for out-
door storage shall be in accordance with Section 2704.13.
3404.4.8 Empty containers and tank storage. The storage
of empty tanks and containers previously used for the stor-
age of flammable or combustible liquids, unless free from
explosive vapors, shall be stored as required for filled con-
tainers and tanks. Tanks and containers when emptied shall
have the covers or plugs immediately replaced in openings.
SECTION 3405
DISPENSING, USE, MIXING AND HANDLING
3405.1 Scope. Dispensing, use, mixing and handling of flam-
mable liquids shall be in accordance with Section 3403 and this
section. Tank vehicle and tank car loading and unloading and
other special operations shall be in accordance with Section
3406.
Exception: Containers of organic coatings having no fire
point and which are opened for pigmentation are not
required to comply with this section.
3405.2 Liquid transfer. Liquid transfer equipment and meth-
ods for transfer of Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall be approved
and be in accordance with Sections 3405.2. 1 through 3405.2.6.
3405.2.1 Pumps. Positive-displacement pumps shall be
provided with pressure relief discharging back to the tank,
pump suction or other approved location, or shall be pro-
vided with interlocks to prevent over-pressure.
3405.2.2 Pressured systems. Where gases are introduced
to provide for transfer of Class I liquids, or Class II and III
liquids transferred at temperatures at or above their flash
points by pressure, only inert gases shall be used. Controls,
including pressure relief devices, shall be provided to limit
the pressure so that the maximum working pressure of
tanks, containers and piping systems cannot be exceeded.
Where devices operating through pressure within a tank or
container are used, the tank or container shall be a pressure
vessel approved for the intended use. Air or oxygen shall not
be used for pressurization.
Exception: Air transfer of Class II and III liquids at tem-
peratures below their flash points.
TABLE 3404.4.2
OUTDOOR LIQUID STORAGE IN CONTAINERS AND PORTABLE TANKS
CLASS OF
LIQUID
CONTAINER STORAGE-
MAXIMUM PER PILE
PORTABLE TANK
STORAGE— MAXIMUM PER PILE
MINIMUM DISTANCE
BETWEEN PILES OR
RACKS
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
TO LOT LINE OF
PROPERTY THAT CAN
BE BUILT UPON'=''
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
TO PUBLIC STREET
PUBLIC ALLEY OR
PUBLIC WAY"
(feet)
Quantity^"
(gallons)
Height
(feet)
Quantity^"
(gallons)
Height
(feet)
lA
1,100
10
2,200
7
5
50
10
IB
2,200
12
4,400
14
5
50
10
IC
4,400
12
8,800
14
5
50
10
II
8,800
12
17,600
14
5
25
5
III
22,000
18
44,000
14
5
10
5
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon 3.785 L.
a. For mixed class storage, see Section 3404.4.2.
b. For storage in racks, the quantity limits per pile do not apply, but the rack arrangement shall be limited to a maximum of 50 feet in length and two rows or 9 feet in
depth.
c. If protection by a public fire department or private fire brigade capable of providing cooling water streams is not available, the distance shall be doubled.
d. When the total quantity stored does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum allowed per pile, the distances are allowed to be reduced 50 percent, but not less than 3 feet.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
329
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3405.2.3 Piping, hoses and valves. Piping, hoses and
valves used in liquid transfer operations shall be approved
or listed for the intended use.
3405.2.4 Class I, II and III liquids. Class I and II hquids or
Class III liquids that are heated up to or above their flash
points shall be transferred by one of the following methods:
Exception: Liquids in containers not exceeding a
5. 3 -gallon (20 L) capacity.
1 . From safety cans complying with UL 30.
2. 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. For Class IB, IC, II and III liquids, 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 3403.4. Class lA hquids shall not be dis-
pensed by gravity from tanks.
5. Approved engineered liquid transfer systems.
3405.2.5 Manual container filling operations for Class I
liquids. Class I liquids and Class II or III liquids heated to
or above their flash points shall not be transferred into con-
tainers unless the nozzle and containers are electrically
interconnected. Acceptable methods of electrical inter-
connection include:
1 . Metallic floor plates on which containers stand while
filling, when such floor plates are electrically con-
nected to the fill stem; or
2. Where the fill stem is bonded to the container during
filling by means of a bond wire.
3405.2.6 Automatic container-filling operations for
Class I liquids. Container-filling operations for Class I liq-
uids involving conveyor belts or other automatic-feeding
operations shall be designed to prevent static accumula-
tions.
3405.3 Use, dispensing and mixing inside of buildings.
Indoor use, dispensing and mixing of flammable and combus-
tible liquids shall be in accordance with Sections 3405.2 and
3405.3.1 through 3405.3.5.3.
3405.3.1 Closure of mixing or blending vessels. Vessels
used for mixing or blending of Class I liquids and Class II or
III liquids heated up to or above their flash points shall be
provided with self-closing, tight-fitting, noncombustible
lids that will control a fire within such vessel.
Exception: Where such devices are impractical,
approved automatic or manually controlled fire-extin-
guishing devices shall be provided.
3405.3.2 Bonding of vessels. Where differences of poten-
tial could be created, vessels containing Class I liquids or
liquids handled at or above their flash points shall be electri-
cally connected by bond wires, ground cables, piping or
similar means to a static grounding system to maintain
equipment at the same electrical potential to prevent spark-
ing.
3405.3.3 Heating, lighting and cooking appliances. Heat-
ing, lighting and cooking appliances which utilize Class I
liquids shall not be operated within a building or structure.
Exception: Operation in single-family dwellings.
3405.3.4 Location of processing vessels. Processing ves-
sels shall be located with respect to distances to lot lines of
adjoining property which can be built on, in accordance
with Tables 3405.3.4(1) and 3405.3.4(2).
Exception: Where the exterior wall facing the adjoining
lot line is a blank wall having a fire-resistance rating of
not less than 4 hours, the fire code official is authorized to
modify the distances. The distance shall not be less than
that set forth in the International Building Code, and
when Class lA or unstable liquids are involved, explo-
sion control shall be provided in accordance with Section
911.
3405.3.5 Quantity limits for use. Liquid use quantity limi-
tations shall comply with Sections 3405.3.5.1 through
3405.3.5.3.
3405.3.5.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control
area. Indoor use, dispensing and mixing of flammable
and combustible liquids shall not exceed the maximum
allowable quantity per control area indicated in Table
2703.1.1(1) and shall not exceed the additional limita-
tions set forth in Section 3405.3.5.
Exception: Cleaning with Class I, II and IIIA liquids
shall be in accordance with Section 3405.3.6.
Use of hazardous production material flammable and
combustible liquids in Group H-5 occupancies shall be
in accordance with Chapter 18.
3405.3.5.2 Occupancy quantity limits. The following
limits for quantities of flammable and combustible liq-
uids used, dispensed or mixed based on occupancy clas-
sification shall not be exceeded.
Exception: Cleaning with Class I, II, or IIIA liquids
shall be in accordance with Section 3405.3.6.
1. Group A occupancies: Quantities in Group A
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, treatment, laboratory work,
maintenance purposes and operation of equip-
ment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
2. Group B occupancies: Quantities in drinking,
dining, office and school uses within Group B
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, treatment, laboratory work,
maintenance purposes and operation of equip-
ment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
330
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TABLE 3405.3.4(1)
SEPARATION OF PROCESSING VESSELS FROM LOT LINES
PROCESSING VESSELS WITH EMERGENCY RELIEF VENTING
LOCATION^
Stable liquids
Unstable liquids
Not in excess of 2.5 psig
Table 3405.3.4(2)
2.5 times Table 3405.3.4(2)
Over 2.5 psig
1.5 times Table 3405.3.4(2)
4 times Table 3405.3.4(2)
For SI: 1 pound per square inch gauge = 6.895 kPa.
a. Where protection of exposures by a public fire department or private fire brigade capable of providing cooling water streams on structures is not provided, dis-
tances shall be doubled.
TABLE 3405.3.4(2)
REFERENCE TABLE FOR USE WITH TABLE 3405.3.4(1)
TANK CAPACITY
(gallons)
MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM LOT LINE OF A LOT
WHICH IS OR CAN BE BUILT UPON, INCLUDING THE
OPPOSITE SIDE OF A PUBLIC WAY
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM NEAREST SIDE OF ANY
PUBLIC WAY OR FROM NEAREST IMPORTANT
BUILDING ON THE SAME PROPERTY
(feet)
275 or less
5
5
276 to 750
10
5
751 to 12,000
15
5
12,001 to 30,000
20
5
30,001 to 50,000
30
10
50,001 to 100,000
50
15
100,001 to 500,000
80
25
500,001 to 1,000,000
100
35
1,000,001 to 2,000,000
135
45
2,000,001 to 3,000,000
165
55
3,000,001 or more
175
60
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
3. Group E occupancies: Quantities in Group E
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, treatment, laboratory work,
maintenance purposes and operation of equip-
ment and shall not exceed quantities set forth in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
4. Group F occupancies: Quantities in dining,
office and school uses within Group F occupan-
cies shall not exceed that necessary for demon-
stration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes
and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed
quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
5. Group I occupancies: Quantities in Group I
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance
purposes and operation of equipment, and shall
not exceed quantities set forth in Table
2703.1.1(1).
6. Group M occupancies: Quantities in dining,
office and school uses within Group M occupan-
cies shall not exceed that necessary for demon-
stration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes
and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed
quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
7. Group R occupancies: Quantities in Group R
occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for
maintenance purposes and operation of equip-
ment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
8. Group S occupancies: Quantities in dining and
office uses within Group S occupancies shall
not exceed that necessary for demonstration,
laboratory work, maintenance purposes and
operation of equipment and shall not exceed
quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1).
3405.3.5.3 Quantities exceeding limits for control
areas. Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Sections
3405.3.5.1 and 3405.3.5.2 shall be in accordance with
the following:
1 . For open systems, indoor use, dispensing and mix-
ing of flammable and combustible liquids shall be
within a room or building complying with the
International Building Code and Sections
3405.3.7.1 through 3405.3.7.5.
2. For closed systems, indoor use, dispensing and
mixing of flammable and combustible liquids
shall be within a room or building complying with
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
331
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
the International Building Code and Sections
3405.3.7 through 3405.3.7.4 and 3405.3.7.6.
3405.3.6 Cleaning with flammable and combustible liq-
uids. Cleaning with Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall be in
accordance with this section.
Exceptions:
1 . Dry cleaning shall be in accordance with Chapter 12.
2. Spray-nozzle cleaning shall be in accordance with
Section 1503.3.5.
3405.3.6.1 Cleaning operations. Class lA hquids shall
not be used for cleaning. Cleaning with Class IB, IC or II
liquids shall be conducted as follows:
1 . In a room or building in accordance with Section
3405.3.7; or
2. In a machine listed and approved for the purpose in
accordance with Section 3405.3.6.2.
Exception: Materials used in commercial and
industrial process-related cleaning operations
in accordance with other provisions of this code
and not involving facilities maintenance clean-
ing operations.
3405.3.6.2 Listed and approved machines. Parts cleaning
and degreasing conducted in listed and approved machines
in accordance with Section 3405.3.6.1 shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3405.3.6.2.1 through 3405.3.6.2.7.
3405.3.6.2.1 Solvents. Solvents shall be classified
and shall be compatible with the machines within
which they are used.
3405.3.6.2.2 Machine capacities. The quantity of sol-
vent shall not exceed the Usted design capacity of the
machine for the solvent being used with the machine.
3405.3.6.2.3 Solvent quantity limits. Solvent quan-
tities shall be limited as follows:
1. Machines without remote solvent reservoirs
shall be limited to quantities set forth in Section
3405.3.5.
2. Machines with remote solvent reservoirs using
Class I liquids shall be limited to quantities set
forth in Section 3405.3.5.
3. Machines with remote solvent reservoirs using
Class II liquids shall be hmited to 35 gallons
(132 L) per machine. The total quantities shall
not exceed an aggregate of 240 gallons (908 L)
per control area in buildings not equipped
throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
kler system and an aggregate of 480 gallons
(1817 L) per control area in buildings equipped
throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
4. Machines with remote solvent reservoirs using
Class IIIA liquids shall be limited to 80 gallons
(303 L) per machine.
3405.3.6.2.4 Immersion soaking of parts. Work
areas of machines with remote solvent reservoirs shall
not be used for immersion soaking of parts.
3405.3.6.2.5 Separation. Multiple machines shall be
separated from each other by a distance of not less
than 30 feet (9 144 mm) or by a fire barrier with a mini-
mum 1-hour fire-resistance rating.
3405.3.6.2.6 Ventilation. Machines shall be located
in areas adequately ventilated to prevent accumula-
tion of vapors.
3405.3.6.2.7 Installation. Machines shall be
installed in accordance with their listings.
3405.3.7 Rooms or buildings for quantities exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area. Where
required by Section 3405.3.5.3 or 3405.3.6.1, rooms or
buildings used for use, dispensing or mixing of flammable
and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 3405.3.7.1 through 3405.3.7.6.3.
3405.3.7.1 Construction, location and fire protection.
Rooms or buildings classified in accordance with the
International Building Code as Group H-2 or H-3 occu-
pancies based on use, dispensing or mixing of flammable
or combustible liquids shall be constructed in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
3405.3.7.2 Basements. In rooms or buildings classified
in accordance with the International Building Code as
Group H-2 or H-3, dispensing or mixing of flammable or
combustible liquids shall not be conducted in basements.
3405.3.7.3 Fire protection. Rooms or buildings classi-
fied in accordance with the International Building Code
as Group H-2 or H-3 occupancies shall be equipped with
an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system in
accordance with Chapter 9.
3405.3.7.4 Doors. Interior doors to rooms or portions of
such buildings shall be self-closing fire doors in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
3405.3.7.5 Open systems. Use, dispensing and mixing
of flammable and combustible liquids in open systems
shall be in accordance with Sections 3405.3.7.5.1
through 3405.3.7.5.3.
3405.3.7.5.1 Ventilation. Continuous mechanical
ventilation shall be provided at a rate of not less than 1
cubic foot per minute per square foot [0.00508 mV(s x
m^)] of floor area over the design area. Provisions
shall be made for introduction of makeup air in such a
manner to include all floor areas or pits where vapors
can collect. Local or spot ventilation shall be provided
when needed to prevent the accumulation of hazard-
ous vapors. Ventilation system design shall comply
with the International Building Code and Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
Exception: Where natural ventilation can be
shown to be effective for the materials used, dis-
pensed or mixed.
332
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3405.3.7.5.2 Explosion control. Explosion control
shall be provided in accordance with Section 911.
3405.3.7.5.3 Spill control and secondary contain-
ment. Spill control shall be provided in accordance
with Section 3403.4 where Class I, II or IIIA liquids
are dispensed into containers exceeding a 1.3-gallon
(5 L) capacity or mixed or used in open containers or
systems exceeding a 5. 3 -gallon (20 L) capacity. Spill
control and secondary containment shall be provided
in accordance with Section 3403.4 when the capacity
of an individual container exceeds 55 gallons (208 L)
or the aggregate capacity of multiple containers or
tanks exceeds 100 gallons (378.5 L).
3405.3.7.6 Closed systems. Use or mixing of flammable
or combustible hquids in closed systems shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3405.3.7.6.1 through 3405.3.7.6.3.
3405.3.7.6.1 Ventilation. Closed systems designed
to be opened as part of normal operations shall be pro-
vided with ventilation in accordance with Section
3405.3.7.5.1.
3405.3.7.6.2 Explosion control. Explosion control
shall be provided when an explosive environment can
occur as a result of the mixing or use process. Explo-
sion control shall be designed in accordance with Sec-
tion 911.
Exception: When process vessels are designed to
contain fully the worst-case explosion anticipated
within the vessel under process conditions consid-
ering the most likely failure.
3405.3.7.6.3 Spill control and secondary contain-
ment. Spill control shall be provided in accordance
with Section 3403.4 when flammable or combustible
liquids are dispensed into containers exceeding a
1 .3-gallon (5 L) capacity or mixed or used in open con-
tainers or systems exceeding a 5. 3-gallon (20 L) capac-
ity. Spill control and secondary containment shall be
provided in accordance with Section 3403.4 when the
capacity of an individual container exceeds 55 gallons
(208 L) or the aggregate capacity of multiple contain-
ers or tanks exceeds 1,000 gallons (3785 L).
3405.3.8 Use, dispensing and handling outside of build-
ings. Outside use, dispensing and handling shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3405.3.8.1 through 3405.3.8.3.
Dispensing of liquids into motor vehicle fuel tanks at
motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be in accordance with
Chapter 22.
3405.3.8.1 Spill control and drainage control. Outside
use, dispensing and handling areas shall be provided
with spill control as set forth in Section 3403.4.
3405.3.8.2 Location on property. Dispensing activities
which exceed the quantities set forth in Table 3405.3.8.2
shall not be conducted within 15 feet (4572 mm) of
buildings or combustible materials or within 25 feet
(7620 mm) of building openings, lot lines, public streets,
public alleys or public ways. Dispensing activities that
exceed the quantities set forth in Table 3405.3.8.2 shall
not be conducted within 15 feet (4572 mm) of storage of
Class I, II or III liquids unless such liquids are stored in
tanks which are listed and labeled as 2-hour protected
tank assemblies in accordance with UL 2085.
Exceptions:
1. The requirements shall not apply to areas
where only the following are dispensed: Class
III liquids; liquids that are heavier than water;
water-miscible liquids; and liquids with vis-
cosities greater than 10,000 centipoise (cp)
(lOPas).
2. Flammable and combustible liquid dispensing
in refineries, chemical plants, process facilities,
gas and crude oil production facilities and oil
blending and packaging facilities, terminals
and bulk plants.
TABLE 3405.3.8.2
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITIES FOR DISPENSING OF
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE
LIQUIDS IN OUTDOOR CONTROL AREAS"''
CLASS OF LIQUID
QUANTITY (gallons)
Flammable
Class lA
Class IB
Class IC
Combination Class lA, IB and IC
10
15
20
30^
Combustible
Class n
Class IIIA
Class IIIB
30
80
3,300
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. For definition of "Outdoor Control Area," see Section 2702. 1 .
b. The fire code official is authorized to impose special conditions regarding
locations, types of containers, dispensing units, fire control measures and
other factors involving fire safety.
c. Containing not more than the maximum allowable quantity per control area
of each individual class.
3405.3.8.3 Location of processing vessels. Processing
vessels shall be located with respect to distances to lot
lines which can be built on in accordance with Table
3405.3.4(1).
Exception: In refineries and distilleries.
3405.3.8.4 Weather protection. Weather protection for
outdoor use shall be in accordance with Section
2705.3.9.
3405.4 Solvent distillation units. Solvent distillation units
shall comply with Sections 3405.4.1 through 3405.4.9.
3405.4.1 Unit with a capacity of 60 gallons or less. Sol-
vent distillation units used to recycle Class I, II or IIIA liq-
uids having a distillation chamber capacity of 60 gallons
(227 L) or less shall be listed, labeled and installed in accor-
dance with Section 3405.4 and UL 2208.
Exceptions:
1 . Solvent distillation units installed in dry cleaning
plants in accordance with Chapter 12.
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333
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
2. Solvent distillation units used in continuous
through-put industrial processes where the source
of heat is remotely supplied using steam, hot
water, oil or other heat transfer fluids, the tempera-
ture of which is below the auto-ignition point of
the solvent.
3. Solvent distillation units listed for and used in lab-
oratories.
4. Approved research, testing and experimental pro-
cesses.
3405.4.2 Units with a capacity exceeding 60 gallons. Sol-
vent distillation units used to recycle Class I, II or IIIA liq-
uids, having a distillation chamber capacity exceeding 60
gallons (227 L) shall be used in locations that comply with
the use and mixing requirements of Section 3405 and other
applicable provisions in this chapter.
3405.4.3 Prohibited processing. Class I, II and IIIA liquids
also classified as unstable (reactive) shall not be processed
in solvent distillation units.
Exception: Appliances listed for the distillation of
unstable (reactive) solvents.
3405.4.4 Labeling. A permanent label shall be affixed to the
unit by the manufacturer. The label shall indicate the capacity
of the distillation chamber, and the distance the unit shall be
placed away from sources of ignition. The label shall indicate
the products for which the unit has been listed for use or refer
to the instruction manual for a Ust of the products.
3405.4.5 Manufacturer's instruction manual. An
instruction manual shall be provided. The manual shall be
readily available for the user and the fire code official. The
manual shall include installation, use and servicing instruc-
tions. It shall identify the liquids for which the unit has been
listed for distillation purposes along with each liquid's flash
point and auto-ignition temperature. For units with adjust-
able controls, the manual shall include directions for setting
the heater temperature for each liquid to be instilled.
3405.4.6 Location. Solvent distillation units shall be used
in locations in accordance with the listing. Solvent distilla-
tion units shall not be used in basements.
3405.4.7 Storage of liquids. Distilled liquids and liquids
awaiting distillation shall be stored in accordance with Sec-
tion 3404.
3405.4.8 Storage of residues. Hazardous residue from the
distillation process shall be stored in accordance with Sec-
tion 3404 and Chapter 27.
3405.4.9 Portable fire extinguishers. Approved portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Sec-
tion 906. At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rat-
ing of not less than 40-B shall be located not less than 10 feet
(3048 mm) or more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from any sol-
vent distillation unit.
3405.5 Alcohol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or II
liquids. The use of wall-mounted dispensers containing alco-
hol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or ILliquids shall be in
accordance with all of the following:
1 . The maximum capacity of each dispenser shall be 68
ounces (2 L).
2. The minimum separation between dispensers shall be 48
inches (1219 mm).
3. The dispensers shall not be installed directly adjacent to,
directly above or below an electrical receptacle, switch,
appliance, device or other ignition source. The wall
space between the dispenser and the floor shall remain
clear and unobstructed.
4. Dispensers shall be mounted so that the bottom of the
dispenser is a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a
maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished
floor.
5. Dispensers shall not release their contents except when
the dispenser is manually activated.
6. Storage and use of alcohol-based hand rubs shall be in
accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections
3404 and 3405.
7. Dispensers installed in occupancies with carpeted floors
shall only be allowed in smoke compartments or fire
areas equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3. 1 . 1 or
903.3.1.2.
3405.5.1 Corridor installations. Where wall-mounted dis-
pensers containing alcohol-based hand rubs are installed in
corridors, they shall be in accordance with all of the following:
1. Aerosol containers shall not be allowed in corridors.
2. The maximum capacity of each dispenser shall be 41
ounces (1.2 L).
3 . The maximum quantity allowed in a corridor within a
control area shall be 10 gallons (37.85 L).
4. The minimum corridor width shall be 72 inches ( 1 829
mm).
5 . Projections into a corridor shall be in accordance with
Section 1003.3.3.
SECTION 3406
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
3406.1 General. This section shall cover the provisions for
special operations which include, but are not limited to, stor-
age, use, dispensing, mixing or handling of flammable and
combustible liquids. The following special operations shall be
in accordance with Sections 3401, 3403, 3404 and 3405,
except as provided in Section 3406.
1 . Storage and dispensing of flammable and combustible
liquids on farms and construction sites.
!•
334
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE**
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
2. Well drilling and operating.
3. Bulk plants or terminals.
4. Bulk transfer and process transfer operations utilizing
tank vehicles and tank cars.
5. Tank vehicles and tank vehicle operation.
6. Refineries.
7. Vapor recovery and vapor-processing systems.
3406.2 Storage and dispensing of flammable and combusti-
ble liquids on farms and construction sites. Permanent and
temporary storage and dispensing of Class I and II hquids for
private use on farms and rural areas and at construction sites,
earth-moving projects, gravel pits or borrow pits shall be in
accordance with Sections 3406.2.1 through 3406.2.8.1.
Exception: Storage and use of fuel oil and containers con-
nected with oil-burning equipment regulated by Section 603
and the International Mechanical Code.
3406.2.1 Combustibles and open flames near tanks. Stor-
age areas shall be kept free from weeds and extraneous com-
bustible material. Open flames and smoking are prohibited
in flammable or combustible liquid storage areas.
3406.2.2 Marking of tanks and containers. Tanks and
containers for the storage of liquids above ground shall be
conspicuously marked with the name of the product which
they contain and the words: FLAMMABLE— KEEP FIRE
AND FLAME AWAY. Tanks shall bear the additional mark-
ing: KEEP 50 FEET FROM BUILDINGS.
3406.2.3 Containers for storage and use. Metal containers
used for storage of Class I or II liquids shall be in accordance
with DOTn requirements or shall be of an approved design.
Discharge devices shall be of a type that do not develop an
internal pressure on the container. Pumping devices or
approved self-closing faucets used for dispensing liquids
shall not leak and shall be well-maintained. Individual con-
tainers shall not be interconnected and shall be kept closed
when not in use.
Containers stored outside of buildings shall be in accor-
dance with Section 3404 and the International Building
Code.
3406.2.4 Permanent and temporary tanks. The capacity
of permanent above-ground tanks containing Class I or II
liquids shall not exceed 1,100 gallons (4164 L). The capac-
ity of temporary above-ground tanks containing Class I or II
Hquids shall not exceed 10,000 gallons (37 854 L). Tanks
shall be of the single-compartment design.
Exception: Permanent above-ground tanks of greater
capacity which meet the requirements of Section 3404.2.
3406.2.4.1 Fill-opening security. Fill openings shall be
equipped with a locking closure device. Fill openings
shall be separate from vent openings.
3406.2.4.2 Vents. Tanks shall be provided with a method
of normal and emergency venting. Normal vents shall
also be in accordance with Section 3404.2.7.3.
Emergency vents shall be in accordance with Section
3404.2.7.4. Emergency vents shall be arranged to dis-
charge in a manner which prevents localized overheating
or flame impingement on any part of the tank in the event
that vapors from such vents are ignited.
3406.2.4.3 Location. Tanks containing Class I or II liq-
uids shall be kept outside and at least 50 feet (15 240 mm)
from buildings and combustible storage. Additional dis-
tance shall be provided when necessary to ensure that
vehicles, equipment and containers being filled directly
from such tanks will not be less than 50 feet (15 240 mm)
from structures, haystacks or other combustible storage.
3406.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are
prohibited. The storage of Class I and II liquids in
above-ground tanks is prohibited within the limits estab-
lished by law as the limits of districts in which such stor-
age is prohibited (see Section 3 of the Sample Ordinance
for Adoption of the International Fire Code on page v).
3406.2.5 Type of tank. Tanks shall be provided with top
openings only or shall be elevated for gravity discharge.
3406.2.5.1 Tanks with top openings only. Tanks with
top openings shall be mounted as follows:
1 . On well-constructed metal legs connected to shoes
or runners designed so that the tank is stabilized
and the entire tank and its supports can be moved
as a unit; or
2. For stationary tanks, on a stable base of timbers or
blocks approximately 6 inches (152 mm) in height
which prevents the tank from contacting the
ground.
3406.2.5.1.1 Pumps and fittings. Tanks with top
openings only shall be equipped with a tightly and
permanently attached, approved pumping device hav-
ing an approved hose of sufficient length for filling
vehicles, equipment or containers to be served from
the tank. Either the pump or the hose shall be
equipped with a padlock to its hanger to prevent tam-
pering. An effective antisiphoning device shall be
included in the pump discharge unless a self-closing
nozzle is provided. Siphons or internal pressure dis-
charge devices shall not be used.
3406.2.5.2 Tanks for gravity discharge. Tanks with a
connection in the bottom or the end for gravity-dispens-
ing liquids shall be mounted and equipped as follows:
1 . Supports to elevate the tank for gravity discharge
shall be designed to carry all required loads and
provide stability.
2 . B ottom or end openings for gravity discharge shall
be equipped with a valve located adjacent to the
tank shell which will close automatically in the
event of fire through the operation of an effective
heat-activated releasing device. Where this valve
cannot be operated manually, it shall be supple-
mented by a second, manually operated valve.
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The gravity discharge outlet shall be provided with an
approved hose equipped with a self-closing valve at the
discharge end of a type that can be padlocked to its
hanger.
3406.2.6 Spill control drainage control and diking.
Indoor storage and dispensing areas shall be provided with
spill control and drainage control as set forth in Section
3403.4. Outdoor storage areas shall be provided with drain-
age control or diking as set forth in Section 3404.2.10.
3406.2.7 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers with a minimum rating of 20-B:C and com-
plying with Section 906 shall be provided where required by
the fire code official.
3406.2.8 Dispensing from tank vehicles. Where approved,
liquids used as fuels are allowed to be transferred from tank
vehicles into the tanks of motor vehicles or special equip-
ment, provided:
1 . The tank vehicle' s specific function is that of supply-
ing fuel to motor vehicle fuel tanks.
2. The dispensing hose does not exceed 100 feet (30 480
mm) in length.
3. The dispensing nozzle is an approved type.
4. The dispensing hose is properly placed on an
approved reel or in a compartment provided before
the tank vehicle is moved.
5. Signs prohibiting smoking or open flames within 25
feet (7620 mm) of the vehicle or the point of refueling
are prominently posted on the tank vehicle.
6. Electrical devices and wiring in areas where fuel dis-
pensing is conducted are in accordance with the ICC
Electrical Code.
7. Tank vehicle-dispensing equipment is operated only
by designated personnel who are trained to handle
and dispense motor fuels.
8. Provisions are made for controlling and mitigating
unauthorized discharges.
3406.2.8.1 Location. Dispensing from tank vehicles
shall be conducted at least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from
structures or combustible storage.
3406.3 Well drilling and operating. Wells for oil and natural
gas shall be drilled and operated in accordance with Sections
3406.3.1 through 3406.3.8.
3406.3.1 Location. The location of wells shall comply with
Sections 3406.3.1.1 through 3406.3.1.3.2.
3406.3.1.1 Storage tanks and sources of ignition. Stor-
age tanks or boilers, fired heaters, open-flame devices or
other sources of ignition shall not be located within 25
feet (7620 mm) of well heads. Smoking is prohibited at
wells or tank locations except as designated and in
approved posted areas.
Exception: Engines used in the drilling, production
and serving of wells.
3406.3.1.2 Streets and railways. Wells shall not be
drilled within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of any dedicated pub-
lic street, highway or nearest rail of an operating railway.
3406.3.1.3 Buildings. Wells shall not be drilled within
100 feet (30 480 nmi) of buildings not necessary to the
operation of the well.
3406.3.1.3.1 Group A, E or I buildings. Wells shall
not be drilled within 300 feet (91 440 mm) of build-
ings with an occupancy in Group A, E or I.
3406.3.1.3.2 Existing wells. Where wells are exist-
ing, buildings shall not be constructed within the dis-
tances set forth in Section 3406.3.1 for separation of
wells or buildings.
3406.3.2 Waste control. Control of waste materials associ-
ated with wells shall comply with Sections 3406.3.2.1 and
3406.3.2.2.
3406.3.2.1 Discharge on a street or water channel.
Liquids containing crude petroleum or its products shall
not be discharged into or on streets, highways, drainage
canals or ditches, storm drains or flood control channels.
3406.3.2.2 Discharge and combustible materials on
ground. The surface of the ground under, around or near
wells, pumps, boilers, oil storage tanks or buildings shall
be kept free from oil, waste oil, refuse or waste material.
3406.3.3 Sumps. Sumps associated with wells shall comply
with Sections 3406.3.3.1 through 3406.3.3.3.
3406.3.3.1 Maximum width. Sumps or other basins for
the retention of oil or petroleum products shall not
exceed 12 feet (3658 mm) in width.
3406.3.3.2 Backfilling. Sumps or other basins for the
retention of oil or petroleum products larger than 6 feet
by 6 feet by 6 feet (1829 mm by 1829 mm by 1829 mm)
shall not be maintained longer than 60 days after the ces-
sation of drilling operations.
3406.3.3.3 Security. Sumps, diversion ditches and
depressions used as sumps shall be securely fenced or
covered.
3406.3.4 Prevention of blowouts. Protection shall be pro-
vided to control and prevent the blowout of a well. Protec-
tion equipment shall meet federal, state and other applicable
jurisdiction requirements.
3406.3.5 Storage tanks. Storage of flammable or combus-
tible liquids in tanks shall be in accordance with Section
3404. Oil storage tanks or groups of tanks shall have posted
in a conspicuous place, on or near such tank or tanks, an
approved sign with the name of the owner or operator, or the
lease number and the telephone number where a responsible
person can be reached at any time.
3406.3.6 Soundproofing. Where soundproofing material is
required during oil field operations, such material shall be
noncombustible.
3406.3.7 Signs. Well locations shall have posted in a con-
spicuous place on or near such tank or tanks an approved
sign with the name of the owner or operator, name of the
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leasee or the lease number, the well number and the tele-
phone number where a responsible person can be reached at
any time. Such signs shall be maintained on the premises
from the time materials are delivered for drilling purposes
until the well is abandoned.
3406.3.8 Field-loading racks. Field-loading racks shall be
in accordance with Section 3406.5.
3406.4 Bulk plants or terminals. Portions of properties where
flammable and combustible liquids are received by tank ves-
sels, pipelines, tank cars or tank vehicles and which are stored
or blended in bulk for the purpose of distributing such liquids
by tank vessels, pipelines, tanks cars, tank vehicles or contain-
ers shall be in accordance with Sections 3406.4.1 through
3406.4.10.4.
3406.4.1 Building construction. Buildings shall be con-
structed in accordance with the International Building
Code.
3406.4.2 Means of egress. Rooms in which liquids are
stored, used or transferred by pumps shall have means of
egress arranged to prevent occupants from being trapped in
the event of fire.
3406.4.3 Heating. Rooms in which Class I liquids are
stored or used shall be heated only by means not constitut-
ing a source of ignition, such as steam or hot water. Rooms
containing heating appliances involving sources of ignition
shall be located and arranged to prevent entry of flammable
vapors.
3406.4.4 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided for
rooms, buildings and enclosures in which Class I liquids are
pumped, used or transferred. Design of ventilation systems
shall consider the relatively high specific gravity of the
vapors. When natural ventilation is used, adequate openings
in outside walls at floor level, unobstructed except by lou-
vers or coarse screens, shall be provided. When natural ven-
tilation is inadequate, mechanical ventilation shall be
provided in accordance with the International Mechanical
Code.
3406.4.4.1 Basements and pits. Class I liquids shall not
be stored or used within a building having a basement or
pit into which flammable vapors can travel, unless such
area is provided with ventilation designed to prevent the
accumulation of flammable vapors therein.
3406.4.4.2 Dispensing of Class I liquids. Containers of
Class I liquids shall not be drawn from or filled within
buildings unless a provision is made to prevent the accu-
mulation of flammable vapors in hazardous concentra-
tions. Where mechanical ventilation is required, it shall
be kept in operation while flammable vapors could be
present.
3406.4.5 Storage. Storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquids in
bulk plants shall be in accordance with the applicable provi-
sions of Section 3404.
3406.4.6 Overfill protection of Class I and II liquids.
Manual and automatic systems shall be provided to prevent
overfill during the transfer of Class I and 11 liquids from
mainline pipelines and marine vessels in accordance with
API 2350.
3406.4.7 Wharves. This section shall apply to all wharves,
piers, bulkheads and other structures over or contiguous to
navigable water having a primary function of transferring
liquid cargo in bulk between shore installations and tank
vessels, ships, barges, lighter boats or other mobile floating
craft.
Exception: Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities in
accordance with Chapter 22.
3406.4.7.1 Transferring approvals. Handling pack-
aged cargo of liquids, including full and empty drums,
bulk fuel and stores, over a wharf during cargo transfer
shall be subject to the approval of the wharf supervisor
and the senior deck officer on duty.
3406.4.7.2 Transferring location. Wharves at which
liquid cargoes are to be transferred in bulk quantities to
or from tank vessels shall be at least 100 feet (30 480
mm) from any bridge over a navigable waterway; or from
an entrance to, or superstructure of, any vehicular or rail-
road tunnel under a waterway. The termination of the
fixed piping used for loading or unloading at a wharf
shall be at least 200 feet (60 960 mm) from a bridge or
from an entrance to, or superstructures of, a tunnel.
3406.4.7.3 Superstructure and decking material.
Superstructure and decking shall be designed for the
intended use. Decking shall be constructed of materials
that will afford the desired combination of flexibility,
resistance to shock, durability, strength and fire resis-
tance.
3406.4.7.4 Tanks allowed. Tanks used exclusively for
ballast water or Class II or III liquids are allowed to be
installed on suitably designed wharves.
3406.4.7.5 Transferring equipment. Loading pumps
capable of building up pressures in excess of the safe
working pressure of cargo hose or loading arms shall be
provided with bypasses, relief valves or other arrange-
ments to protect the loading facilities against excessive
pressure. Relief devices shall be tested at least annually
to determine that they function satisfactorily at their set
pressure.
3406.4.7.6 Piping, valves and fittings. Piping valves
and fittings shall be in accordance with Section 3403.6
except as modified by the following:
1 . Flexibility of piping shall be ensured by appropri-
ate layout and arrangement of piping supports so
that motion of the wharf structure resulting from
wave action, currents, tides or the mooring of ves-
sels will not subject the pipe to repeated excessive
strain.
2. Pipe joints that depend on the friction characteris-
tics of combustible materials or on the grooving of
pipe ends for mechanical continuity of piping shall
not be used.
3. Swivel joints are allowed in piping to which hoses
are connected and for articulated, swivel-joint
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
transfer systems, provided the design is such that
the mechanical strength of the joint will not be
impaired if the packing materials fail such as by
exposure to fire.
4. Each line conveying Class I or II liquids leading to
a wharf shall be provided with a readily accessible
block valve located on shore near the approach to
the wharf and outside of any diked area. Where
more than one line is involved, the valves shall be
grouped in one location.
5. Means shall be provided for easy access to cargo
line valves located below the wharf deck.
6. Piping systems shall contain a sufficient number of
valves to operate the system properly and to con-
trol the flow of liquid in normal operation and in
the event of physical damage.
7. Piping on wharves shall be bonded and grounded
where Class I and II liquids are transported. Where
excessive stray currents are encountered, insulat-
ing joints shall be installed. Bonding and ground-
ing connections on piping shall be located on the
wharf side of hose riser insulating flanges, where
used, and shall be accessible for inspection.
8. Hose or articulated swivel-joint pipe connections
used for cargo transfer shall be capable of accom-
modating the combined effects of change in draft
and maximum tidal range, and mooring lines shall
be kept adjusted to prevent surge of the vessel from
placing stress on the cargo transfer system.
9. Hoses shall be supported to avoid kinking and
damage from chafing.
3406.4.7.7 Loading and unloading. Loading or dis-
charging shall not commence until the wharf superinten-
dent and officer in charge of the tank vessel agree that the
tank vessel is properly moored and connections are prop-
erly made.
3406.4.7.8 Mechanical work. Mechanical work shall
not be performed on the wharf during cargo transfer,
except under special authorization by the fire code offi-
cial based on a review of the area involved, methods to be
employed and precautions necessary.
3406.4.8 Sources of ignition. Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall
not be used, drawn or dispensed where flammable vapors
can reach a source of ignition. Smoking shall be prohibited
except in designated locations. "No Smoking" signs com-
plying with Section 310 shall be conspicuously posted
where a hazard from flammable vapors is normally present.
3406.4.9 Drainage control. Loading and unloading areas
shall be provided with drainage control in accordance with
Section 3404.2.10.
3406.4.10 Fire protection. Fire protection shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 9 and Sections 3406.4.10.1 through
3406.4.10.4.
3406.4.10.1 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers with a rating of not less than 20-B and
complying with Section 906 shall be located within 75
feet (22 860 mm) of hose connections, pumps and sepa-
rator tanks.
3406.4.10.2 Fire hoses. Where piped water is available,
ready-connected fire hose in a size appropriate for the
water supply shall be provided in accordance with Sec-
tion 905 so that manifolds where connections are made
and broken can be reached by at least one hose stream.
3406.4.10.3 Obstruction of equipment. Material shall
not be placed on wharves in such a manner that would
obstruct access to fire-fighting equipment or important
pipeHne control valves.
3406.4.10.4 Fire apparatus access. Where the wharf is
accessible to vehicular traffic, an unobstructed fire appa-
ratus access road to the shore end of the wharf shall be
maintained in accordance with Chapter 5.
3406.5 Bulk transfer and process transfer operations. Bulk
transfer and process transfer operations shall be approved and
be in accordance with Sections 3406.5.1 through 3406.5.4.4.
Motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall comply with Chapter 22.
3406.5.1 General. The provisions of Sections 3406.5.1.1
through 3406.5 .1.18 shall apply to bulk transfer and process
transfer operations; Sections 3406.5.2 and 3406.5.2.1 shall
apply to bulk transfer operations; Sections 3406.5.3 through
3406.5.3.3 shall apply to process transfer operations and
Sections 3406.5.4 through 3406.5.4.4 shall apply to dis-
pensing from tank vehicles and tank cars.
3406.5.1.1 Location. Bulk transfer and process transfer
operations shall be conducted in approved locations.
Tank cars shall be unloaded only on private sidings or
railroad-siding facilities equipped for transferring flam-
mable or combustible liquids. Tank vehicle and tank car
transfer facilities shall be separated from buildings,
above-ground tanks, combustible materials, lot lines,
public streets, public alleys or public ways by a distance
of 25 feet (7620 mm) for Class I liquids and 15 feet (4572
mm) for Class II and III liquids measured from the near-
est position of any loading or unloading valve. Buildings
for pumps or shelters for personnel shall be considered
part of the transfer facility.
3406.5.1.2 Weather protection canopies. Where
weather protection canopies are provided, they shall be
constructed in accordance with Section 2704.13.
Weather protection canopies shall not be located within
15 feet (4572 mm) of a building or combustible material
or within 25 feet (7620 mm) of building openings, lot
lines, public streets, public alleys or public ways.
3406.5.1.3 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided to
prevent accumulation of vapors in accordance with Sec-
tion 3405.3.7.5.1.
3406.5.1.4 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall
be controlled or eliminated in accordance with Section
2703.7.
3406.5.1.5 Spill control and secondary containment.
Areas where transfer operations are located shall be pro-
vided with spill control and secondary containment in
accordance with Section 3403.4. The spill control and
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secondary containment system shall have a design
capacity capable of containing the capacity of the largest
tank compartment located in the area where transfer
operations are conducted. Containment of the rainfall
volume specified in Section 2704.2.2.6 is not required.
3406.5.1.6 Fire protection. Fire protection shall be in
accordance with Section 3403.2.
3406.5.1.7 Static protection. Static protection shall be
provided to prevent the accumulation of static charges
during transfer operations. Bonding facilities shall be
provided during the transfer through open domes where
Class I liquids are transferred, or where Class II and III
liquids are transferred into tank vehicles or tank cars
which could contain vapors from previous cargoes of
Class I liquids.
Protection shall consist of a metallic bond wire perma-
nently electrically connected to the fill stem. The fill pipe
assembly shall form a continuous electrically conductive
path downstream from the point of bonding. The free end
of such bond wire shall be provided with a clamp or
equivalent device for convenient attachment to a metallic
part in electrical contact with the cargo tank of the tank
vehicle or tank car. For tank vehicles, protection shall
consist of a flexible bond wire of adequate strength for
the intended service and the electrical resistance shall not
exceed 1 megohm. For tank cars, bonding shall be pro-
vided where the resistance of a tank car to ground
through the rails is 25 ohms or greater.
Such bonding connection shall be fastened to the vehi-
cle, car or tank before dome covers are raised and shall
remain in place until filling is complete and all dome cov-
ers have been closed and secured.
Exceptions:
1 . Where vehicles and cars are loaded exclusively
with products not having a static-accumulating
tendency, such as asphalt, cutback asphalt,
most crude oils, residual oils and water-misci-
ble liquids.
2. When Class I liquids are not handled at the
transfer facility and the tank vehicles are used
exclusively for Class II and III liquids.
3 . Where vehicles and cars are loaded or unloaded
through closed top or bottom connections
whether the hose is conductive or
nonconductive.
Filling through open domes into the tanks of tank
vehicles or tank cars that contain vapor-air mixtures
within the flammable range, or where the liquid being
filled can form such a mixture, shall be by means of a
downspout which extends to near the bottom of the tank.
3406.5.1.8 Stray current protection. Tank car loading
facilities where Class I, II or IIIA liquids are transferred
through open domes shall be protected against stray cur-
rents by permanently bonding the pipe to at least one rail
and to the transfer apparatus. Multiple pipes entering the
transfer areas shall be permanently electrically bonded
together. In areas where excessive stray currents are
known to exist, all pipes entering the transfer area shall
be provided with insulating sections to isolate electri-
cally the transfer apparatus from the pipelines.
3406.5.1.9 Top loading. When top loading a tank vehi-
cle with Class I and II liquids without vapor control,
valves used for the final control of flow shall be of the
self-closing type and shall be manually held open except
where automatic means are provided for shutting off the
flow when the tank is full. When used, automatic shutoff
systems shall be provided with a manual shutoff valve
located at a safe distance from the loading nozzle to stop
the flow if the automatic system fails.
When top loading a tank vehicle with vapor control,
flow control shall be in accordance with Section
3406.5.1.10. Self-closing valves shall not be tied or
locked in the open position.
3406.5.1.10 Bottom loading. When bottom loading a
tank vehicle or tank car with or without vapor control, a
positive means shall be provided for loading a predeter-
mined quantity of liquid, together with an automatic sec-
ondary shutoff control to prevent overfill. The
connecting components between the transfer equipment
and the tank vehicle or tank car required to operate the
secondary control shall be functionally compatible.
3406.5.1.10.1 Dry disconnect coupling. When bot-
tom loading a tank vehicle, the coupling between the
liquid loading hose or pipe and the truck piping shall
be a dry disconnect coupling.
3406.5.1.10.2 Venting. When bottom loading a tank
vehicle or tank car that is equipped for vapor control
and vapor control is not used, the tank shall be vented
to the atmosphere to prevent pressurization of the
tank. Such venting shall be at a height equal to or
greater than the top of the cargo tank.
3406.5.1.10.3 Vapor-tight connection. Connections
to the plant vapor control system shall be designed to
prevent the escape of vapor to the atmosphere when
not connected to a tank vehicle or tank car.
3406.5.1.10.4 Vapor-processing equipment.
Vapor-processing equipment shall be separated from
above-ground tanks, warehouses, other plant build-
ings, transfer facilities or nearest lot line of adjoining
property that can be built on by a distance of at least 25
feet (7620 mm). Vapor-processing equipment shall be
protected from physical damage by remote location,
guardrails, curbs or fencing.
3406.5.1.11 Switch loading. Tank vehicles or tank cars
which have previously contained Class I liquids shall not
be loaded with Class II or III hquids until such vehicles
and all piping, pumps, hoses and meters connected
thereto have been completely drained and flushed.
3406.5.1.12 Loading racks. Where provided, loading
racks, stairs or platforms shall be constructed of
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
noncombustible materials. Buildings for pumps or for
shelter of loading personnel are allowed to be part of the
loading rack. Wiring and electrical equipment located
within 25 feet (7620 mm) of any portion of the loading
rack shall be in accordance with Section 3403.1.1.
3406.5.1.13 Transfer apparatus. Bulk and process
transfer apparatus shall be of an approved type.
3406.5.1.14 Inside buildings. Tank vehicles and tank
cars shall not be located inside a building while transfer-
ring Class I, II or IIIA liquids, unless approved by the fire
code official.
Exception: Tank vehicles are allowed under weather
protection canopies and canopies of automobile
motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.
3406.5.1.15 Tank vehicle and tank car certification.
Certification shall be maintained for tank vehicles and
tank cars in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR, Parts
100-178.
3406.5.1.16 Tank vehicle and tank car stability. Tank
vehicles and tank cars shall be stabilized against move-
ment during loading and unloading in accordance with
Sections 3406.5.1.16.1 through 3406.5.1.16.3.
3406.5.1.16.1 Tank vehicles. When the vehicle is
parked for loading or unloading, the cargo trailer por-
tion of the tank vehicle shall be secured in a manner
that will prevent unintentional movement.
3406.5.1.16.2 Chock blocks. At least two chock
blocks not less than 5 inches by 5 inches by 12 inches
(127 mm by 127 mm by 305 mm) in size and dished to
fit the contour of the tires shall be used during transfer
operations of tank vehicles.
3406.5.1.16.3 Tank cars. Brakes shall be set and the
wheels shall be blocked to prevent rolling.
3406.5.1.17 Monitoring. Transfer operations shall be
monitored by an approved monitoring system or by an
attendant. When monitoring is by an attendant, the oper-
ator or other competent person shall be present at all
times.
3406.5.1.18 Security. Transfer operations shall be sur-
rounded by a noncombustible fence not less than 5 feet
(1524 mm) in height. Tank vehicles and tank cars shall
not be loaded or unloaded unless such vehicles are
entirely within the fenced area.
Exceptions:
1. Motor fuel-dispensing facilities complying
with Chapter 22.
2. Installations where adequate public safety
exists because of isolation, natural barriers or
other factors as determined appropriate by the
fire code official.
3. Facilities or properties that are entirely
enclosed or protected from entry.
3406.5.2 Bulk transfer. Bulk transfer shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3406.5.1 and 3406.5.2.1.
3406.5.2.1 Vehicle motor. Motors of tank vehicles or
tank cars shall be shut off during the making and break-
ing of hose connections and during the unloading opera-
tion.
Exception: Where unloading is performed with a
pump deriving its power from the tank vehicle motor.
3406.5.3 Process transfer. Process transfer shall be in
accordance with Section 3406.5.1 and Sections 3406.5.3.1
through 3406.5.3.3.
3406.5.3.1 Piping, valves, hoses and fittings. Piping,
valves, hoses and fittings which are not a part of the tank
vehicle or tank car shall be in accordance with Section
3403.6. Caps or plugs which prevent leakage or spillage
shall be provided at all points of connection to transfer
piping.
3406.5.3.1.1 Shutoff valves. Approved automati-
cally or manually activated shutoff valves shall be
provided where the transfer hose connects to the pro-
cess piping, and on both sides of any exterior
fire-resistance-rated wall through which the piping
passes. Manual shutoff valves shall be arranged so
that they are accessible from grade. Valves shall not
be locked in the open position.
3406.5.3.1.2 Hydrostatic relief. Hydrostatic pres-
sure-limiting or relief devices shall be provided where
pressure buildup in trapped sections of the system
could exceed the design pressure of the components
of the system.
Devices shall reUeve to other portions of the system
or to another approved location.
3406.5.3.1.3 Antisiphon valves. Antisiphon valves
shall be provided when the system design would
allow siphonage.
3406.5.3.2 Vents. Normal and emergency vents shall be
maintained operable at all times.
3406.5.3.3 Motive power. Motors of tank vehicles or
tank cars shall be shut off during the making and break-
ing of hose connections and during the unloading opera-
tion.
Exception: When unloading is performed with a
pump deriving its power from the tank vehicle motor.
3406.5.4 Dispensing from tank vehicles and tank cars.
Dispensing from tank vehicles and tank cars into the fuel
tanks of motor vehicles shall be prohibited unless allowed
by and conducted in accordance with Sections 3406.5.4.1
through 3406.5.4.5.
3406.5.4.1 Marine craft and special equipment. Liq-
uids intended for use as motor fuels are allowed to be
transferred from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of
marine craft and special equipment when approved by
the fire code official, and when:
1 . The tank vehicle' s specific function is that of sup-
plying fuel to fuel tanks.
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
2. The operation is not performed where the pubHc
has access or where there is unusual exposure to
hfe and property.
3. The dispensing line does not exceed 50 feet (15
240 mm) in length.
4. The dispensing nozzle is approved.
3406.5.4.2 Emergency refueling. When approved by
the fire code official, dispensing of motor vehicle fuel
from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles is
allowed during emergencies. Dispensing from tank vehi-
cles shall be in accordance with Sections 3406.2.8 and
3406.6.
3406.5.4.3 Aircraft fueling. Transfer of liquids from
tank vehicles to the fuel tanks of aircraft shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 1 1 .
3406.5.4.4 Fueling of vehicles at farms, construction
sites and similar areas. Transfer of liquid from tank
vehicles to motor vehicles for private use on farms and
rural areas and at construction sites, earth-moving pro-
jects, gravel pits and borrow pits is allowed in accor-
dance with Section 3406.2.8.
3406.5.4.5 Commercial, industrial, governmental or
manufacturing. Dispensing of Class II and III motor
vehicle fuel from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of
motor vehicles located at commercial, industrial, gov-
ernmental or manufacturing establishments is allowed
where permitted, provided such dispensing operations
are conducted in accordance with the following:
1. Dispensing shall occur only at sites that have
been issued a permit to conduct mobile fueling.
2. The owner of a mobile fueling operation shall
provide to the jurisdiction a written response plan
which demonstrates readiness to respond to a
fuel spill and carry out appropriate mitigation
measures, and describes the process to dispose
properly of contaminated materials.
3. A detailed site plan shall be submitted with each
application for a permit. The site plan shall indi-
cate: all buildings, structures and appurtenances
on site and their use or function; all uses adjacent
to the property lines of the site; the locations of all
storm drain openings, adjacent waterways or
wetlands; information regarding slope, natural
drainage, curbing, impounding and how a spill
will be retained upon the site property; and the
scale of the site plan.
Provisions shall be made to prevent liquids
spilled during dispensing operations from flow-
ing into buildings or off-site. Acceptable meth-
ods include, but shall not be limited to, grading
driveways, raising doorsills or other approved
means.
4. The fire code official is allowed to impose limits
on the times and days during which mobile fuel-
ing operations may take place, and specific loca-
tions on a site where fueling is permitted.
5. Mobile fueling operations shall be conducted in
areas not accessible to the public or shall be lim-
ited to times when the public is not present.
6. Mobile fueling shall not take place within 1 5 feet
(4572 mm) of buildings, property lines or com-
bustible storage.
7. The tank vehicle shall comply with the require-
ments of NFPA 385 and local, state and federal
requirements. The tank vehicle's specific func-
tions shall include that of supplying fuel to motor
vehicle fuel tanks. The vehicle and all its equip-
ment shall be maintained in good repair.
8. Signs prohibiting smoking or open flames within
25 feet (7620 mm) of the tank vehicle or the point
of fueling shall be prominently posted on three
sides of the vehicle including the back and both
sides.
9. A portable fire extinguisher with a minimum rat-
ing of 40:BC shall be provided on the vehicle
with signage clearly indicating its location.
10. The dispensing nozzles and hoses shall be of an
approved and listed type.
1 1 . The dispensing hose shall not be extended from
the reel more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) in
length.
1 2. Absorbent materials, nonwater- absorbent pads, a
10-foot-long (3048 nmn) containment boom, an
approved container with lid and a nonmetallic
shovel shall be provided to mitigate a minimum
5-gallon (19 L) fuel spill.
13. Tank vehicles shall be equipped with a "fuel
limit" switch such as a count-back switch, to
limit the amount of a single fueling operation to a
maximum of 500 gallons (1893 L) before reset-
ting the limit switch.
Exception: Tank vehicles where the operator
carries and can utilize a remote emergency
shutoff device which, when activated, immedi-
ately causes flow of fuel from the tank vehicle
to cease.
14. Persons responsible for dispensing operations
shall be trained in the appropriate mitigating
actions in the event of a fire, leak or spill. Train-
ing records shall be maintained by the dispensing
company and shall be made available to the fire
code official upon request.
15. Operators of tank vehicles used for mobile fuel-
ing operations shall have in their possession at all
times an emergency communications device to
notify the proper authorities in the event of an
emergency.
16. The tank vehicle dispensing equipment shall be
constantly attended and operated only by desig-
nated personnel who are trained to handle and
dispense motor fuels.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
341
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
17. Prior to beginning dispensing operations, pre-
cautions shall be taken to ensure ignition sources
are not present.
1 8 . The engines of vehicles being fueled shall be shut
off during dispensing operations.
19. Nighttime fueling operations shall only take
place in adequately lighted areas.
20. The tank vehicle shall be positioned with respect
to vehicles being fueled to prevent traffic from
driving over the delivery hose.
21. During fueling operations, tank vehicle brakes
shall be set, chock blocks shall be in place and
warning lights shall be in operation.
22. Motor vehicle fuel tanks shall not be topped off.
23. The dispensing hose shall be properly placed on
an approved reel or in an approved compartment
prior to moving the tank vehicle.
24. The fire code official and other appropriate
authorities shall be notified when a reportable
spill or unauthorized discharge occurs.
3406.6 Tank vehicles and vehicle operation. Tank vehicles
shall be designed, constructed, equipped and maintained in
accordance with NFPA 385 and Sections 3406.6.1 through
3406.6.4.
3406.6.1 Operation of tank vehicles. Tank vehicles shall
be utilized and operated in accordance with NFPA 385 and
Sections 3406.6.1.1 through 3406.6.1.11.
3406.6.1.1 Vehicle maintenance. Tank vehicles shall
not be operated unless they are in proper state of repair
and free from accumulation of grease, oil or other flam-
mable substance, and leaks.
3406.6.1.2 Leaving vehicle unattended. The driver,
operator or attendant of a tank vehicle shall not remain in
the vehicle cab and shall not leave the vehicle while it is
being filled or discharged. The delivery hose, when
attached to a tank vehicle, shall be considered to be a part
of the tank vehicle.
3406.6.1.3 Vehicle motor shutdown. Motors of tank
vehicles or tractors shall be shut down during the making
or breaking of hose connections. If loading or unloading
is performed without the use of a power pump, the tank
vehicle or tractor motor shall be shut down throughout
such operations.
3406.6.1.4 Outage. A cargo tank or compartment
thereof used for the transportation of flammable or com-
bustible liquids shall not be loaded to absolute capacity.
The vacant space in a cargo tank or compartment thereof
used in the transportation of flammable or combustible
hquids shall not be less than 1 percent. Sufficient space
shall be left vacant to prevent leakage from or distortion
of such tank or compartment by expansion of the con-
tents caused by rise in temperature in transit.
3406.6.1.5 Overfill protection. The driver, operator or
attendant of a tank vehicle shall, before making delivery
to a tank, determine the unfilled capacity of such tank by
a suitable gauging device. To prevent overfilling, the
driver, operator or attendant shall not deliver in excess of
that amount.
3406.6.1.6 Securing hatches. During loading, hatch
covers shall be secured on all but the receiving compart-
ment.
3406.6.1.7 Liquid temperature. Materials shall not be
loaded into or transported in a tank vehicle at a tempera-
ture above the material's ignition temperature unless
safeguarded in an approved manner.
3406.6.1.8 Bonding to underground tanks. An exter-
nal bond-wire connection or bond-wire integral with a
hose shall be provided for the transferring of flammable
liquids through open connections into underground
tanks.
3406.6.1.9 Smoking. Smoking by tank vehicle drivers,
helpers or other personnel is prohibited while they are
driving, making deliveries, filling or making repairs to
tank vehicles.
3406.6.1.10 Hose connections. Delivery of flammable
liquids to underground tanks with a capacity of more
than 1,000 gallons (3785 L) shall be made by means of
approved liquid and vapor-tight connections between the
delivery hose and fill tank pipe. Where underground
tanks are equipped with any type of vapor recovery sys-
tem, all connections required to be made for the safe and
proper functioning of the particular vapor recovery pro-
cess shall be made. Such connections shall be made liq-
uid and vapor tight and remain connected throughout the
unloading process. Vapors shall not be discharged at
grade level during delivery.
3406.6.1.10.1 Simultaneous delivery. Simultaneous
delivery to underground tanks of any capacity from
two or more discharge hoses shall be made by means
of mechanically tight connections between the hose
and fill pipe.
3406.6.1.11 Hose protection. Upon arrival at a point of
delivery and prior to discharging any flammable or com-
bustible liquids into underground tanks, the driver, oper-
ator or attendant of the tank vehicle shall ensure that all
hoses utilized for liquid delivery and vapor recovery,
where required, will be protected from physical damage
by motor vehicles. Such protection shall be provided by
positioning the tank vehicle to prevent motor vehicles
from passing through the area or areas occupied by
hoses, or by other approved equivalent means.
3406.6.2 Parking. Parking of tank vehicles shall be in
accordance with Sections 3406.6.2.1 through 3406.6.2.3.
Exception: In cases of accident, breakdown or other
emergencies, tank vehicles are allowed to be parked and
left unattended at any location while the operator is
obtaining assistance.
3406.6.2.1 Parking near residential, educational and
institutional occupancies and other high-risk areas.
Tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any time on
residential streets, or within 500 feet (152 m) of a resi-
342
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
dential area, apartment or hotel complex, educational
facility, hospital or care facility. Tank vehicles shall not
be left unattended at any other place that would, in the
opinion of the fire chief, pose an extreme life hazard.
3406.6.2.2 Parking on thoroughfares. Tank vehicles
shall not be left unattended on a public street, highway,
public avenue or public alley.
Exceptions:
1 . The necessary absence in connection with load-
ing or unloading the vehicle. During actual fuel
transfer, Section 3406.6.1.2 shall apply. The
vehicle location shall be in accordance with
Section 3406.6.2.1.
2. Stops for meals during the day or night, if the
street is well lighted at the point of parking. The
vehicle location shall be in accordance with
Section 3406.6.2.1.
3406.6.2.3 Duration exceeding 1 hour. Tank vehicles
parked at one point for longer than 1 hour shall be located
off of public streets, highways, public avenues or alleys,
and:
1 . Inside of a bulk plant and either 25 feet (7620 mm)
or more from the nearest lot line or within a build-
ing approved for such use; or
2. At other approved locations not less than 50 feet
(15 240 mm) from the buildings other than those
approved for the storage or servicing of such vehi-
cles.
3406.6.3 Garaging. Tank vehicles shall not be parked or
garaged in buildings other than those specifically approved
for such use by the fire code official.
3406.6.4 Portable fire extinguisher. Tank vehicles shall be
equipped with a portable fire extinguisher complying with
Section 906 and having a minimum rating of 2-A:20-B:C.
During unloading of the tank vehicle, the portable fire
extinguisher shall be out of the carrying device on the vehi-
cle and shall be 15 feet (4572 mm) or more from the unload-
ing valves.
3406.7 Refineries. Plants and portions of plants in which flam-
mable liquids are produced on a scale from crude petroleum,
natural gasoline or other hydrocarbon sources shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3406.7.1 through 3406.7.3. Petro-
leum-processing plants and facilities or portions of plants or
facilities in which flammable or combustible liquids are han-
dled, treated or produced on a commercial scale from crude
petroleum, natural gasoline, or other hydrocarbon sources shall
also be in accordance with API 651, API 653, API 752, API
1615, API 2001, API 2003, API 2009, API 2015, API 2023,
API 2201 and API 2350.
3406.7.1 Corrosion protection. Above-ground tanks and
piping systems shall be protected against corrosion in accor-
dance with API 651.
3406.7.2 Cleaning of tanks. The safe entry and cleaning of
petroleum storage tanks shall be conducted in accordance
with API 2015.
3406.7.3 Storage of heated petroleum products. Where
petroleum-derived asphalts and residues are stored in
heated tanks at refineries and bulk storage facilities or in
tank vehicles, such products shall be in accordance with API
2023.
3406.8 Vapor recovery and vapor-processing systems.
Vapor-processing systems in which the vapor source operates
at pressures from vacuum, up to and including 1 psig (6.9 kPa)
or in which a potential exists for vapor mixtures in the flamma-
ble range, shall comply with Sections 3406.8.1 through
3406.8.5.
Exceptions:
1. Marine systems complying with federal transporta-
tion waterway regulations such as DOTn 33 CFR,
Parts 154 through 156, and CGR 46 CFR, Parts 30,
32, 35 and 39.
2. Motor fuel-dispensing facility systems complying
with Chapter 22.
3406.8.1 Over-pressure/vacuum protection. Tanks and
equipment shall have independent venting for over-pressure
or vacuum conditions that might occur from malfunction of
the vapor recovery or processing system.
Exception: For tanks, venting shall comply with Section
3404.2.7.3.
3406.8.2 Vent location. Vents on vapor-processing equip-
ment shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) from adjacent
ground level, with outlets located and directed so that flam-
mable vapors will disperse to below the lower flammable
limit (LFL) before reaching locations containing potential
ignition sources.
3406.8.3 Vapor collection systems and overfill protec-
tion. The design and operation of the vapor collection sys-
tem and overfill protection shall be in accordance with this
section and Section 7.10 of NFPA 30.
3406.8.4 Liquid-level monitoring. A liquid knock-out ves-
sel used in the vapor collection system shall have means to
verify the liquid level and a high-liquid-level sensor that
activates an alarm. For unpopulated facilities, the high-liq-
uid-level sensor shall initiate the shutdown of liquid transfer
into the vessel and shutdown of vapor recovery or
vapor-processing systems.
3406.8.5 Overfill protection. Storage tanks served by
vapor recovery or processing systems shall be equipped
with overfill protection in accordance with Section
3404.2.7.5.8.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^^
343
344 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
CHAPTER 35
FLAMMABLE GASES
SECTION 3501
GENERAL
3501.1 Scope. The storage and use of flammable gases shall be
in accordance with this chapter. Compressed gases shall also
comply with Chapter 30 and gaseous hydrogen systems shall
also comply with NFPA 55.
Exceptions:
1. Gases used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems
(see Section 606).
2. Liquefied petroleum gases and natural gases regu-
lated by Chapter 38.
3. Fuel-gas systems and appliances regulated under the
International Fuel Gas Code.
4. Hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing stations and repair
garages designed and constructed in accordance with
Chapter 22.
5. Pyrophoric gases in accordance with Chapter 41.
3501.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 3502
DEFINITIONS
3502.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
FLAMMABLE GAS. A material which is a gas at 68°F
(20°C) or less at 14.7 pounds per square inch atmosphere (psia)
(101 kPa) of pressure [a material that has a boiling point of
68°F (20°C) or less at 14.7 psia (101 kPa)] which:
1 . Is ignitable at 14.7 psia (101 kPa) when in a mixture of 1 3
percent or less by volume with air; or
2. Has a flammable range at 14.7 psia (101 kPa) with air of
at least 12 percent, regardless of the lower limit.
The limits specified shall be determined at 14.7 psi (101 kPa)
of pressure and a temperature of 68°F (20°C) in accordance
with ASTME 681.
FLAMMABLE LIQUEFIED GAS. A liquefied compressed
gas which, under a charged pressure, is partially liquid at a tem-
perature of 68°F (20°C) and which is flammable.
SECTION 3503
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3503.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of flammable
gases in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 3501 and 3503.
3503.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use.
Flammable gases shall not be stored or used in Group A, B,
E, I or R occupancies.
Exceptions:
1 . Cylinders not exceeding a capacity of 250 cubic
feet (7.08 m^) each at normal temperature and
pressure (NTP) used for maintenance purposes,
patient care or operation of equipment.
2. Food service operations in accordance with Sec-
tion 3803.2.1.7.
3503.1.1.1 Medical gases. Medical gas system supply
cylinders shall be located in medical gas storage rooms
or gas cabinets as set forth in Section 3006.
3503.1.1.2 Aggregate quantity. The aggregate quanti-
ties of flammable gases used for maintenance purposes
and operation of equipment shall not exceed the maxi-
mum allowable quantity per control area indicated in
Table 2703.1.1(1).
3503.1.2 Storage containers. Cylinders and pressure ves-
sels for flammable gases shall be designed, constructed,
installed, tested and maintained in accordance with Chapter
30.
3503.1.3 Emergency shutoff. Compressed gas systems
conveying flammable gases shall be provided with
approved manual or automatic emergency shutoff valves I
that can be activated at each point of use and at each source.
3503.1.3.1 Shutoff at source. A manual or automatic
fail-safe emergency shutoff valve shall be installed on
supply piping at the cylinder or bulk source. Manual or
automatic cylinder valves are allowed to be used as the
required emergency shutoff valve when the source of
supply is limited to unmanifolded cylinder sources.
3503.1.3.2 Shutoff at point of use. A manual or auto-
matic emergency shutoff valve shall be installed on the
supply piping at the point of use or at a point where the
equipment using the gas is connected to the supply sys-
tem.
3503.1.4 Ignition source control. Ignition sources in areas
containing flammable gases in storage or in use shall be |
controlled in accordance with Section 2703.7.
Exception: Fuel gas systems connected to building ser-
vice utilities in accordance with the International Fuel
Gas Code.
3503.1.4.1 Static-producing equipment. Static-pro-
ducing equipment located in flammable gas storage
areas shall be grounded.
3503.1.4.2 Signs. "No Smoking" signs shall be posted at I
entrances to rooms and in areas containing flammable ■
gases in accordance with Section 2703.7.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
345
FLAMMABLE GASES
3503.1.5 Electrical. Electrical wiring and equipment shall
be installed and maintained in accordance with the ICC
Electrical Code.
3503.1.5.1 Bonding of electrically conductive materi-
als and equipment. Exposed noncurrent-carrying metal
parts, including metal gas piping systems, that are part of
flammable gas supply systems located in a hazardous
(electrically classified) location shall be bonded to a
grounded conductor in accordance with the provisions of
the ICC Electrical Code.
3503.1.5.2 Static-producing equipment. Static-pro-
ducing equipment located in flammable gas storage or
use areas shall be grounded.
3503.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of flammable gases
in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance
with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
3504.1.1 Explosion control. Buildings or portions thereof
containing flammable gases shall be provided with explo-
sion control in accordance with Section 911.
3504.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of flammable gases
in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703 and 2704, and this chapter.
3504.2.1 Distance limitation to exposures. Outdoor stor-
age or use of flammable compressed gases shall be located
from a lot line, pubhc street, public alley, public way, or
building not associated with the manufacture or distribution
of such gases in accordance with Table 3504.2. 1 .
SECTION 3505
USE
3505.1 General. The use of flammable gases in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1) or 2703. 1.1(3) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703 and 2705, and this chapter.
SECTION 3504
STORAGE
3504.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of flammable gases in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1), shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703 and 2704, and this chapter.
TABLE 3504.2.1
FLAMMABLE GASES— DISTANCE FROM STORAGE TO EXPOSURES
MAXIMUM AMOUNT
PER STORAGE
AREA (cubic feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
BETWEEN
STORAGE AREAS
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
TO LOT LINES OF
PROPERTY THAT
CAN BE BUILT
UPON (feet)^
MINIMUM DISTANCE
TO PUBLIC
STREETS, PUBLIC
ALLEYS OR PUBLIC
WAYS (feet)^
MINIMUM DISTANCE TO BUILDINGS
ON THE SAME PROPERTY
Nonrated construction
or openings
within 25 feet
2-hour construction
and no openings
within 25 feet
4-hour construction
and no openings
within 25 feet
- 4,225
5
5
5
5
4,226-21,125
10
10
10
10
5
21,126-50,700
10
15
15
20
5
50,701 - 84,500
10
20
20
20
5
84,501 or greater
20
25
25
20
5
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
a. The minimum required distances shall not apply when fire barriers without openings or penetrations having a minimum fire-resistance rating of 2 hours interrupt
the line of sight between the storage and the exposure. The configuration of the fire barrier shall be designed to allow natural ventilation to prevent the accumulation
of hazardous gas concentrations.
346
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 36
FLAMMABLE SOLIDS
SECTION 3601
GENERAL
3601.1 Scope. The storage and use of flammable solids shall be
in accordance with this chapter.
3601.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 3602
DEFINITIONS
3602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
FLAMMABLE SOLID. A solid, other than a blasting agent
or explosive, that is capable of causing fire through friction,
absorption or moisture, spontaneous chemical change, or
retained heat from manufacturing or processing, or which has
an ignition temperature below 212°F (100°C) or which bums
so vigorously and persistently when ignited as to create a seri-
ous hazard. A chemical shall be considered a flammable solid
as determined in accordance with the test method of CPSC 16
CFR; Part 1500.44, if it ignites and bums with a self-sustained
flame at a rate greater than 0. 1 inch (2.5 mm) per second along
its major axis.
MAGNESIUM. The pure metal and alloys, of which the major
part is magnesium.
3604.1.2 Aisles. Aisle widths between piles shall not be less
than the height of the piles or 4 feet (1219 mm), whichever is
greater.
3604.1.3 Basement storage. Flammable solids shall not be
stored in basements.
3604.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of flammable solids
in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per
control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter. Out-
door storage of magnesium shall be in accordance with Section
3606.
3604.2.1 Distance from storage to exposures. Outdoor
storage of flammable solids shall not be located within 20
feet (6096 mm) of a building, lot line, public street, public
alley, public way or means of egress. A 2-hour fire barrier
without openings or penetrations and extending 30 inches
(762 mm) above and to the sides of the storage area is
allowed in lieu of such distance. The wall shall either be an
independent stmcture, or the exterior wall of the building
adjacent to the storage area.
3604.2.2 Pile size limits. Outdoor storage of flanmiable sol-
ids shall be separated into piles not larger than 5,000 cubic
feet (141 m^) each. Piles shall be separated by aisles with a
minimum width of not less than one-half the pile height or
10 feet (3048 mm), whichever is greater.
SECTION 3603
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3603.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of flammable
solids in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area as indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703 and 3601.
3603.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of flammable solids
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area as
indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance with Chap-
ter 27 and this chapter.
SECTION 3604
STORAGE
3604.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of flammable solids in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
3604.1.1 Pile size limits and location. Flammable solids
stored in quantities greater than 1,000 cubic feet (28 m^)
shall be separated into piles each not larger than 1 ,000 cubic
feet (28 m^).
SECTION 3605
USE
3605.1 General. The use of flammable solids in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703. 1 . 1(1) or 2703. 1 .1(3) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter. The use
of magnesium shall be in accordance with Section 3606.
SECTION 3606
MAGNESIUM
3606.1 General. Storage, use, handling and processing of
magnesium, including the pure metal and alloys of which the
major part is magnesium, shall be in accordance with Chapter
27 and Sections 3602.2 through 3606.8.
3606.2 Storage of magnesium articles. The storage of mag-
nesium shall comply with Sections 3606.2.1 through 3606.4.3.
3606.2.1 Storage of greater than 50 cubic feet. Magne-
sium storage in quantities greater than 50 cubic feet ( 1 .4 m^)
shall be separated from storage of other materials that are
either combustible or in combustible containers by aisles.
Piles shall be separated by aisles with a minimum width of
not less than the pile height.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
347
FLAMMABLE SOLIDS
3606.2.2 Storage of greater than 1,000 cubic feet. Magne-
sium storage in quantities greater than 1,000 cubic feet (28
m^) shall be separated into piles not larger than 1,000 cubic
feet (28 m^) each. Piles shall be separated by aisles with a
minimum width of not less than the pile height. Such storage
shall not be located in nonsprinklered buildings of Type III,
IV or V construction, as defined in the International Build-
ing Code.
3606.2.3 Storage in combustible containers or within 30
feet of other combustibles. Where in nonsprinklered build-
ings of Type III, IV or V construction, as defined in the
International Building Code, magnesium shall not be stored
in combustible containers or within 30 feet (9144 mm) of
other combustibles.
3606.2.4 Storage in foundries and processing plants. The
size of storage piles of magnesium articles in foundries and
processing plants shall not exceed 1,250 cubic feet (25 m^).
Piles shall be separated by aisles with a minimum width of
not less than one-half the pile height.
3606.3 Storage of pigs, ingots and billets. The storage of
magnesium pigs, ingots and billets shall comply with Sections
3606.3.1 and 3606.3.2.
3606.3.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of pigs, ingots and
billets shall only be on floors of noncombustible construc-
tion. Piles shall not be larger than 500,000 pounds (226.8
metric tons) each. Piles shall be separated by aisles with a
minimum width of not less than one-half the pile height.
3606.3.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of magnesium
pigs, ingots and billets shall be in piles not exceeding
1,000,000 pounds (453.6 metric tons) each. Piles shall be
separated by aisles with a minimum width of not less than
one-half the pile height. Piles shall be separated from com-
bustible materials or buildings on the same or adjoining
property by a distance of not less than the height of the near-
est pile.
3606.4 Storage of fine magnesium scrap. The storage of
scrap magnesium shall comply with Sections 3606.4. 1 through
3606.4.3.
3606.4.1 Separation. Magnesium fines shall be kept sepa-
rate from other combustible materials.
3606.4.2 Storage of 50 to 1,000 cubic feet. Storage of fine
magnesium scrap in quantities greater than 50 cubic feet
(1.4 m^) [six 5 5 -gallon (208 L) steel drums] shall be sepa-
rated from other occupancies by an open space of at least 50
feet (15 240 mm) or by a fire barrier constructed in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
3606.4.3 Storage of greater than 1,000 cubic feet. Storage
of fine magnesium scrap in quantities greater than 1 ,000
cubic feet (28 m^) shall be separated from all buildings other
than those used for magnesium scrap recovery operations
by a distance of not less than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
3606.5 Use of magnesium. The use of magnesium shall com-
ply with Sections 3606.5.1 through 3606.5.8.
3606.5.1 Melting pots. Floors under and around melting
pots shall be of noncombustible construction.
3606.5.2 Heat-treating ovens. Approved means shall be
provided for control of magnesium fires in heat-treating
ovens.
3606.5.3 Dust collection. Magnesium grinding, buffing
and wire-brushing operations, other than rough finishing of
castings, shall be provided with approved hoods or enclo-
sures for dust collection which are connected to a liq-
uid-precipitation type of separator that converts dust to
sludge without contact (in a dry state) with any high-speed
moving parts.
3606.5.3.1 Duct construction. Connecting ducts or suc-
tion tubes shall be completely grounded, as short as pos-
sible, and without bends. Ducts shall be fabricated and
assembled with a smooth interior, with internal lap joints
pointing in the direction of airflow and without unused
capped side outlets, pockets or other dead-end spaces
which allow an accumulation of dust.
3606.5.3.2 Independent dust separators. Each
machine shall be equipped with an individual dust-sepa-
rating unit.
Exceptions:
1 . One separator is allowed to serve two dust-pro-
ducing units on multiunit machines.
2. One separator is allowed to serve not more than
four portable dust-producing units in a single
enclosure or stand.
3606.5.4 Power supply interlock. Power supply to
machines shall be interlocked with exhaust airflow, and liq-
uid pressure level or flow. The interlock shall be designed to
shut down the machine it serves when the dust removal or
separator system is not operating properly.
3606.5.5 Electrical equipment. Electric wiring, fixtures
and equipment in the inmiediate vicinity of and attached to
dust-producing machines, including those used in connec-
tion with separator equipment, shall be of approved types
and shall be approved for use in Class II, Division 1 hazard-
ous locations in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
3606.5.6 Grounding. Equipment shall be securely
grounded by permanent ground wires in accordance with
the ICC Electrical Code.
3606.5.7 Fire-extinguishing materials. Fire-extinguish-
ing materials shall be provided for every operator perform-
ing machining, grinding or other processing operation on
magnesium as follows:
1. Within 30 feet (9144 mm), a supply of extinguishing
materials in an approved container with a hand scoop
or shovel for applying the material; or
2. Within 75 feet (22 860 mm), a portable fire extin-
guisher complying with Section 906.
All extinguishing materials shall be approved for use on
magnesium fires. Where extinguishing materials are stored
in cabinets or other enclosed areas, the enclosures shall be
openable without the use of a key or special knowledge.
3606.5.8 Collection of chips, turnings and fines. Chips,
turnings and other fine magnesium scrap shall be collected
348
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FLAMMABLE SOLIDS
from the pans or spaces under machines and from other
places where they collect at least once each working day.
Such material shall be placed in a covered, vented steel con-
tainer and removed to an approved location.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® 349
350 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
CHAPTER 37
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
SECTION 3701
GENERAL
3701.1 Scope. The storage and use of highly toxic and toxic
materials shall comply with this chapter. Compressed gases
shall also comply with Chapter 30.
Exceptions:
1 . Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group
S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11.
2. Conditions involving pesticides or agricultural prod-
ucts as follows:
2.1. Application and release of pesticide, agricul-
tural products and materials intended for use
in weed abatement, erosion control, soil
amendment or similar applications when ap-
plied in accordance with the manufacturer's
instruction and label directions.
2.2. Transportation of pesticides in compliance
with the Federal Hazardous Materials Trans-
portation Act and regulations thereunder.
2.3. Storage in dwellings or private garages of pes-
ticides registered by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency to be utilized in and
around the home, garden, pool, spa and patio.
3701.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 3702
DEFINITIONS
3702.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
CONTAINMENT SYSTEM. A gas-tight recovery system
comprised of equipment or devices which can be placed over a
leak in a compressed gas container, thereby stopping or con-
trolling the escape of gas from the leaking container.
CONTAINMENT VESSEL. A gas-tight recovery vessel
designed so that a leaking compressed gas container can be
placed within its confines thereby, encapsulating the leaking
container.
EXCESS FLOW VALVE. A valve inserted into a compressed
gas cylinder, portable tank or stationary tank that is designed to
positively shut off the flow of gas in the event that its predeter-
mined flow is exceeded.
HIGHLY TOXIC. A material which produces a lethal dose or
lethal concentration which falls within any of the following cat-
egories:
1 . A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of 50
milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight when
administered orally to albino rats weighing between 200
and 300 grams each.
2. A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of 200
milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight when
administered by continuous contact for 24 hours (or less
if death occurs within 24 hours) with the bare skin of
albino rabbits weighing between 2 and 3 kilograms each.
3 . A chemical that has a median lethal concentration (LC50)
in air of 200 parts per million by volume or less of gas or
vapor, or 2 milligrams per liter or less of mist, fume or
dust, when administered by continuous inhalation for
one hour (or less if death occurs within 1 hour) to albino
rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
Mixtures of these materials with ordinary materials, such as
water, might not warrant classification as highly toxic. While
this system is basically simple in application, any hazard evalu-
ation that is required for the precise categorization of this type
of material shall be performed by experienced, technically
competent persons.
OZONE-GAS GENERATOR. Equipment which causes the
production of ozone.
PHYSIOLOGICAL WARNING THRESHOLD LEVEL.
A concentration of air-borne contaminants, normally
expressed in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per cubic
meter (mg/m^), that represents the concentration at which per-
sons can sense the presence of the contaminant due to odor, irri-
tation or other quick-acting physiological responses. When
used in conjunction with the permissible exposure limit (PEL),
the physiological warning threshold levels are those consistent
with the classification system used to establish the PEL. See the
definition of "Permissible exposure limit (PEL)" in Section
2702.
REDUCED FLOW VALVE. A valve equipped with a
restricted flow orifice and inserted into a compressed gas cylin-
der, portable tank or stationary tank that is designed to reduce
the maximum flow from the valve under full-flow conditions.
The maximum flow rate from the valve is determined with the
valve allowed to flow to atmosphere with no other piping or fit-
tings attached.
TOXIC. A chemical falling within any of the following cate-
gories:
1 . A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of more
than 50 milligrams per kilogram, but not more than 500
milligrams per kilogram of body weight when adminis-
tered orally to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300
grams each.
2. A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of more
than 200 milligrams per kilogram but not more than
1,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight when
administered by continuous contact for 24 hours (or less
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
351
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
if death occurs within 24 hours) with the bare skin of
albino rabbits weighing between 2 and 3 kilograms each.
3. A chemical that has a median lethal concentration (LC50)
in air of more than 200 parts per million but not more
than 2,000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor, or
more than 2 milligrams per liter but not more than 20 mil-
ligrams per liter of mist, fume or dust, when adminis-
tered by continuous inhalation for 1 hour (or less if death
occurs within 1 hour) to albino rats weighing between
200 and 300 grams each.
SECTION 3703
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS
3703.1 Indoor storage and use. The indoor storage and use of
highly toxic and toxic materials shall comply with Sections
3703.1.1 through 3703.1.5.3.
3703.1.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. The indoor storage or use
of highly toxic and toxic solids or liquids in amounts not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703.1.1(2) shall be in accordance with
Sections 2701, 2703 and 3701.
3703.1.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The indoor storage or use of
highly toxic and toxic solids or liquids in amounts exceed-
ing the maximum allowable quantity per control area set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(2) shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 3701 through 3703.1.3 and Chapter 27.
3703.1.3 Treatment system — highly toxic liquids.
Exhaust scrubbers or other systems for processing vapors of
highly toxic liquids shall be provided where a spill or acci-
dental release of such liquids can be expected to release
highly toxic vapors at normal temperature and pressure.
Treatment systems and other processing systems shall be
installed in accordance with the International Mechanical
Code.
3703.1.4 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of highly toxic
and toxic solids and liquids shall comply with Sections
3703.1.4.1 and 3703.1.4.2.
3703.1.4.1 Floors. In addition to the requirements set
forth in Section 2704.12, floors of storage areas shall be
of hquid-tight construction.
3703.1.4.2 Separation — ^highly toxic solids and liq-
uids. In addition to the requirements set forth in Section
2703.9.8, highly toxic soHds and liquids in storage shall
be located in approved hazardous material storage cabi-
nets or isolated from other hazardous material storage by
construction in accordance with the International Build-
ing Code.
3703.1.5 Indoor use. Indoor use of highly toxic and toxic
solids and liquids shall comply with Sections 3703.1.5.1
through 3703.1.5.3.
3703.1.5.1 Liquid transfer. Highly toxic and toxic liq-
uids shall be transferred in accordance with Section
2705.1.10.
3703.1.5.2 Exhaust ventilation for open systems.
Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided for
highly toxic and toxic liquids used in open systems in
accordance with Section 2705.2.1.1.
Exception: Liquids or solids that do not generate
highly toxic or toxic fumes, mists or vapors.
3703.1.5.3 Exhaust ventilation for closed systems.
Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided for
highly toxic and toxic liquids used in closed systems in
accordance with Section 2705.2.2.2.
Exception: Liquids or solids that do not generate
highly toxic or toxic fumes, mists or vapors.
3703.2 Outdoor storage and use. Outdoor storage and use of
highly toxic and toxic materials shall comply with Sections
3703.2.1 through 3703.2.6.
3703.2.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. The outdoor storage or use
of highly toxic and toxic solids or liquids in amounts not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance with
Sections 2701, 2703 and 3701.
3703.2.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The outdoor storage or use of
highly toxic and toxic solids or liquids in amounts exceed-
ing the maximum allowable quantity per control area set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 3701 and 3703.2 and Chapter 27.
3703.2.3 General outdoor requirements. The general
requirements applicable to the outdoor storage of highly
toxic or toxic solids and liquids shall be in accordance with
Sections 3703.2.3.1 and 3703.2.3.2.
3703.2.3.1 Location. Outdoor storage or use of highly
toxic or toxic solids and liquids shall not be located
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of lot lines, public streets, pub-
lic alleys, public ways, exit discharges or exterior wall
openings. A 2-hour fire barrier wall without openings or
penetrations extending not less than 30 inches (762 mm)
above and to the sides of the storage is allowed in lieu of
such distance. The wall shall either be an independent
structure, or the exterior wall of the building adjacent to
the storage area.
3703.2.3.2 Treatment system — highly toxic liquids.
Exhaust scrubbers or other systems for processing
vapors of highly toxic liquid shall be provided where a
spill or accidental release of such liquids can be expected
to release highly toxic vapors at normal temperature and
pressure (NTP). Treatment systems and other processing
systems shall be installed in accordance with the Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
3703.2.4 Outdoor storage piles. Outdoor storage piles of
highly toxic and toxic solids and liquids shall be separated
into piles not larger than 2,500 cubic feet (71 m^). Aisle
widths between piles shall not be less than one-half the
height of the pile or 10feet(3048 mm), whichever is greater.
3703.2.5 Weather protection for highly toxic liquids and
solids — outdoor storage or use. Where overhead weather
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^^
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
protection is provided for outdoor storage or use of highly
toxic Hquids or solids, and the weather protection is
attached to a building, the storage or use area shall either be
equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, or storage or
use vessels shall be fire resistive. Weather protection shall
be provided in accordance with Section 2704. 13 for storage
and Section 2705.3.9 for use.
3703.2.6 Outdoor liquid transfer. Highly toxic and toxic
liquids shall be transferred in accordance with Section
2705.1.10.
SECTION 3704
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC COMPRESSED GASES
3704.1 General. The storage and use of highly toxic and toxic
compressed gases shall comply with this section.
3704.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use
by occupancy. The indoor storage and use of highly toxic
and toxic compressed gases in certain occupancies shall be
subject to the limitations contained in Sections 3704.1.1.1
through 3704.1.1.3.
3704.1.1.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. Toxic and
highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used
within Group A, E, I or U occupancies.
Exception: Cylinders not exceeding 20 cubic feet
(0.566 m^) at normal temperature and pressure (NTP)
are allowed within gas cabinets or fume hoods.
3704.1.1.2 Group R occupancies. Toxic and highly
toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used in
Group R occupancies.
3704.1.1.3 Offices, retail sales and classrooms. Toxic
and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or
used in offices, retail sales or classroom portions of
Group B, F, M or S occupancies.
Exception: In classrooms of Group B occupancies,
cylinders with a capacity not exceeding 20 cubic feet
(0.566 m^) at NTP are allowed in gas cabinets or fume
hoods.
3704.1.2 Gas cabinets. Gas cabinets containing highly
toxic or toxic compressed gases shall comply with Section
2703.8.6 and the following requirements:
1. The average ventilation velocity at the face of gas
cabinet access ports or windows shall not be less than
200 feet per minute (1.02 m/s) with a minimum of 150
feet per minute (0.76 m/s) at any point of the access
port or window.
2. Gas cabinets shall be connected to an exhaust system.
3. Gas cabinets shall not be used as the sole means of
exhaust for any room or area.
4. The maximum number of cylinders located in a single
gas cabinet shall not exceed three, except that cabi-
nets containing cylinders not over 1 pound (0.454 kg)
net contents are allowed to contain up to 100 cylin-
ders.
5. Gas cabinets required by Section 3704.2 or 3704.3
shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Alternative fire-extinguishing systems shall not be
used.
3704.1.3 Exhausted enclosures. Exhausted enclosures
containing highly toxic or toxic compressed gases shall
comply with Section 2703.8.5 and the following require-
ments:
1. The average ventilation velocity at the face of the
enclosure shall not be less than 200 feet per minute
(1.02 m/s) with a minimum of 150 feet per minute
(0.76 m/s).
2. Exhausted enclosures shall be connected to an
exhaust system.
3. Exhausted enclosures shall not be used as the sole
means of exhaust for any room or area.
4. Exhausted enclosures required by Section 3704.2 or
3704.3 shall be equipped with an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1. Alternative fire-extinguishing systems
shall not be used.
3704.2 Indoor storage and use. The indoor storage and use of
highly toxic or toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance
with Sections 3704.2.1 through 3704.2.2.10.3.
3704.2.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations
governing the indoor storage and use of highly toxic and
toxic compressed gases shall be as set forth in Sections
3704.2.1.1 through 3704.2.1.3.
3704.2.1.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per control area. The indoor stor-
age or use of highly toxic and toxic gases in amounts not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control
area set forth in Table 2703. 1 .1(2) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 3701 and 3704.1.
3704.2.1.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. The indoor storage or
use of highly toxic and toxic gases in amounts exceeding
the maximum allowable quantity per control area set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(2) shall be in accordance with
Sections 3701, 3704.1, 3704.2 and Chapter 27.
3704.2.1.3 Ozone gas generators. The indoor use of
ozone gas-generating equipment shall be in accordance
with Section 3705.
3704.2.2 General indoor requirements. The general
requirements applicable to the indoor storage and use of
highly toxic and toxic compressed gases shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3704.2.2.1 through 3704.2.2.10.3.
3704.2.2.1 Cylinder and tank location. Cylinders shall
be located within gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or
gas rooms. Portable and stationary tanks shall be located
within gas rooms or exhausted enclosures.
3704.2.2.2 Ventilated areas. The room or area in which
gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures are located shall be
provided with exhaust ventilation. Gas cabinets or
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353
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
exhausted enclosures shall not be used as the sole means
of exhaust for any room or area.
3704.2.2.3 Leaking cylinders and tanks. One or more
gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures shall be provided to
handle leaking cylinders, containers or tanks.
Exceptions:
1. Where cylinders, containers or tanks are
located within gas cabinets or exhausted enclo-
sures.
2. Where approved containment vessels or con-
tainment systems are provided in accordance
with all of the following:
2.1. Containment vessels or containment
systems shall be capable of fully con-
taining or terminating a release.
2.2. Trained personnel shall be available at
an approved location.
2.3. Containment vessels or containment
systems shall be capable of being trans-
ported to the leaking cylinder, container
or tank.
3704.2.2.3.1 Location. Gas cabinets and exhausted
enclosures shall be located in gas rooms and con-
nected to an exhaust system.
3704.2.2.4 Local exhaust for portable tanks. A means
of local exhaust shall be provided to capture leaks from
portable tanks. The local exhaust shall consist of portable
ducts or collection systems designed to be applied to the
site of a leak in a valve or fitting on the tank. The local
exhaust system shall be located in a gas room. Exhaust
shall be directed to a treatment system in accordance
with Section 3704.2.2.7.
3704.2.2.5 Piping and controls — stationary tanks. In
addition to the requirements of Section 2703.2.2, piping
and controls on stationary tanks shall comply with the
following requirements:
1 . Pressure relief devices shall be vented to a treat-
ment system designed in accordance with Section
3704.2.2.7.
Exception: Pressure relief devices on outdoor
tanks provided exclusively for relieving pres-
sure due to fire exposure are not required to be
vented to a treatment system provided that:
1 . The material in the tank is not flammable.
2. The tank is not located in a diked area
with other tanks containing combustible
materials.
3. The tank is located not less than 30 feet
(9144 mm) from combustible materials
or structures or is shielded by a fire bar-
rier complying with Section
3704.3.2.1.1.
2. FiUing or dispensing connections shall be pro-
vided with a means of local exhaust. Such exhaust
shall be designed to capture fumes and vapors. The
exhaust shall be directed to a treatment system in
accordance with Section 3704.2.2.7.
3. Stationary tanks shall be provided with a means of
excess flow control on all tank inlet or outlet con-
nections.
Exceptions:
1. Inlet connections designed to prevent
backflow.
2. Pressure relief devices.
3704.2.2.6 Gas rooms. Gas rooms shall comply with
Section 2703.8.4 and both of the following require-
ments:
1 . The exhaust ventilation from gas rooms shall be
directed to an exhaust system.
2. Gas rooms shall be equipped with an approved
automatic sprinkler system. Alternative fire-extin-
guishing systems shall not be used.
3704.2.2.7 Treatment systems. The exhaust ventilation
from gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures, gas rooms and
local exhaust systems required in Sections 3704.2.2.4
and 3704.2.2.5 shall be directed to a treatment system.
The treatment system shall be utilized to handle the acci-
dental release of gas and to process exhaust ventilation.
The treatment system shall be designed in accordance
with Sections 3704.2.2.7.1 through 3704.2.2.7.5 and
Section 510 of the International Mechanical Code.
Exceptions:
1 . Highly toxic and toxic gases — storage. A treat-
ment system is not required for cylinders, con-
tainers and tanks in storage when all of the
following controls are provided:
1.1. Valve outlets are equipped with
gas-tight outlet plugs or caps.
1.2. Handwheel-operated valves have han-
dles secured to prevent movement.
1.3. Approved containment vessels or con-
tainment systems are provided in accor-
dance with Section 3704.2.2.3.
2. Toxic gases — use. Treatment systems are not
required for toxic gases supplied by cylinders
or portable tanks not exceeding 1,700 pounds
(772 kg) water capacity when the following are
provided:
2. 1 . A gas detection system with a sensing
interval not exceeding 5 minutes.
2.2. An approved automatic-closing
fail-safe valve located immediately
adjacent to cylinder or portable tank
valves. The fail-safe valve shall close
when gas is detected at the PEL by a gas
detection system monitoring the
exhaust system at the point of discharge
from the gas cabinet, exhausted enclo-
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2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
sure, ventilated enclosure or gas room.
The gas detection system shall comply
with Section 3704.2.2.10.
3704.2.2.7.1 Design. Treatment systems shall be
capable of diluting, adsorbing, absorbing, containing,
neutralizing, burning or otherwise processing the
contents of the largest single vessel of compressed
gas. Where a total containment system is used, the
system shall be designed to handle the maximum
anticipated pressure of release to the system when it
reaches equilibrium.
3704.2.2.7.2 Performance. Treatment systems shall
be designed to reduce the maximum allowable dis-
charge concentrations of the gas to one-half immedi-
ate by dangerous to life and health (IDLH) at the point
of discharge to the atmosphere. Where more than one
gas is emitted to the treatment system, the treatment
system shall be designed to handle the worst-case
release based on the release rate, the quantity and the
IDLH for all compressed gases stored or used.
3704.2.2.7.3 Sizing. Treatment systems shall be sized
to process the maximum worst-case release of gas
based on the maximum flow rate of release from the
largest vessel utilized. The entire contents of the larg-
est compressed gas vessel shall be considered.
3704.2.2.7.4 Stationary tanlcs. Stationary tanks
shall be labeled with the maximum rate of release for
the compressed gas contained based on valves or fit-
tings that are inserted direcdy into the tank. Where
multiple valves or fittings are provided, the maximum
flow rate of release for valves or fittings with the high-
est flow rate shall be indicated. Where liquefied com-
pressed gases are in contact with valves or fittings, the
liquid flow rate shall be utilized for computation pur-
poses. Flow rates indicated on the label shall be con-
verted to cubic feet per minute (ftVmin) (mVs) of gas
at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
3704.2.2.7.5 Portable tanks and cylinders. The
maximum flow rate of release for portable tanks and
cylinders shall be calculated based on the total release
from the cylinder or tank within the time specified in
Table 3704.2.2.7.5. When portable tanks or cylinders
are equipped with approved excess flow or reduced
flow valves, the worst-case release shall be deter-
mined by the maximum achievable flow from the
valve as determined by the valve manufacturer or
compressed gas supplier. Reduced flow and excess
flow valves shall be permanently marked by the valve
manufacturer to indicate the maximum design flow
rate. Such markings shall indicate the flow rate for air
under normal temperature and pressure.
TABLE 3704.2.2.7.5
RATE OF RELEASE FOR CYLINDERS AND PORTABLE TANKS
VESSEL TYPE
NONLIQUEFIED
(minutes)
LIQUEFIED
(minutes)
Containers
5
30
Portable tanks
40
240
3704.2.2.8 Emergency power. Emergency power in
accordance with the ICC Electrical Code shall be pro-
vided in lieu of standby power where any of the follow-
ing systems are required:
1 . Exhaust ventilation system.
2. Treatment system.
3. Gas detection system.
4. Smoke detection system.
5. Temperature control system.
6. Fire alarm system.
7. Emergency alarm system.
Exception: Emergency power is not required for
mechanical exhaust ventilation, treatment systems
and temperature control systems where approved
fail-safe engineered systems are installed.
3704.2.2.9 Automatic fire detection system — highly
toxic compressed gases. An approved automatic fire
detection system shall be installed in rooms or areas
where highly toxic compressed gases are stored or used.
Activation of the detection system shall sound a local
alarm. The fire detection system shall comply with Sec-
tion 907.
3704.2.2.10 Gas detection system. A gas detection sys-
tem shall be provided to detect the presence of gas at or
below the PEL or ceiling limit of the gas for which detec-
tion is provided. The system shall be capable of monitor-
ing the discharge from the treatment system at or below
one-half the IDLH limit.
Exception: A gas detection system is not required for
toxic gases when the physiological warning threshold |
level for the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL I
for the gas.
3704.2.2.10.1 Alarms. The gas detection system
shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to a
constantly attended control station when a short-term
hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both
visual and audible and shall provide warning both
inside and outside the area where gas is detected. The
audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.
Exception: Signal transmission to a constantly
attended control station is not required where not
more than one cylinder of highly toxic or toxic gas
is stored.
3704.2.2.10.2 Shut off of gas supply. The gas-detec-
tion system shall automatically close the shutoff valve
at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related
to the system being monitored for whichever gas is
detected.
Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required
for reactors utilized for the production of highly
toxic or toxic compressed gases where such reac-
tors are:
1. Operated at pressures less than 15 pounds
per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa).
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HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
2. Constantly attended.
3. Provided with readily accessible emergency
shutoff valves.
3704.2.2.10.3 Valve closure. Automatic closure of
shutoff valves shall be in accordance with the follow-
ing:
1 . When the gas-detection sampling point initiat-
ing the gas detection system alarm is within a
gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff
valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure
for the specific gas detected shall automatically
close.
2. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiat-
ing the gas detection system alarm is within a
gas room and compressed gas containers are
not in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures, the
shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific
gas detected shall automatically close.
3. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiat-
ing the gas detection system alarm is within a
piping distribution manifold enclosure, the
shutoff valve for the compressed container of
specific gas detected supplying the manifold
shall automatically close.
Exception: When the gas-detection sampling
point initiating the gas-detection system alarm is at
a use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a
branch line downstream of a piping distribution
manifold, the shutoff valve in the gas valve enclo-
sure for the branch line located in the piping distri-
bution manifold enclosure shall automatically
close.
3704.3 Outdoor storage and use. The outdoor storage and use
of highly toxic and toxic compressed gases shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3704.3.1 through 3704.3.4.
3704.3.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations
governing the outdoor storage and use of highly toxic and
toxic compressed gases shall be as set forth in Sections
3704.3.1.1 through 3704.3.1.3.
3704.3.1.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per control area. The outdoor stor-
age or use of highly toxic and toxic gases in amounts not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control
area set forth in Table 2703. 1 .1(4) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703 and 3701.
3704.3.1.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area. The outdoor storage or
use of highly toxic and toxic gases in amounts exceeding
the maximum allowable quantity per control area set
forth in Table 2703.1.1(4) shall be in accordance with
Sections 3701 and 3704.3 and Chapter 27.
3704.3.1.3 Ozone gas generators. The outdoor use of
ozone gas-generating equipment shall be in accordance
with Section 3705.
3704.3.2 General outdoor requirements. The general
requirements applicable to the outdoor storage and use of
highly toxic and toxic compressed gases shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3704.3.2.1 through 3704.3.2.7.
3704.3.2.1 Location. Outdoor storage or use of highly
toxic or toxic compressed gases shall be located in accor-
dance with Sections 3704.3.2.1.1 through 3704.3.2.1.3.
Exception: Compressed gases located in gas cabinets
complying with Sections 2703.8.6 and 3704.1.2 and
located 5 feet (1524 mm) or more from buildings and
25 feet (7620 mm) or more from an exit discharge.
3704.3.2.1.1 Distance limitation to exposures. Out-
door storage or use of highly toxic or toxic com-
pressed gases shall not be located within 75 feet (22
860 mm) of a lot line, public street, public alley, pub-
lic way, exit discharge or building not associated with
the manufacture or distribution of such gases, unless
all of the following conditions are met:
1. Storage is shielded by a 2-hour fire barrier
which interrupts the line of sight between the
storage and the exposure.
2. The 2-hour fire barrier shall be located at least 5
feet (1524 mm) from any exposure.
3. The 2-hour fire barrier shall not have more than
two sides at approximately 90-degree (1.57
rad) directions, or three sides with connecting
angles of approximately 135 degrees (2.36
rad).
3704.3.2.1.2 Openings in exposed buildings. Where
the storage or use area is located closer than 75 feet
(22 860 mm) to a building not associated with the
manufacture or distribution of highly toxic or toxic
compressed gases, openings into a building other than
for piping are not allowed above the height of the top
of the 2-hour fire barrier or within 50 feet (15 240
mm) horizontally from the storage area whether or
not shielded by a fire barrier.
3704.3.2.1.3 Air intakes. The storage or use area
shall not be located within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of air
intakes.
3704.3.2.2 Leaking cylinders and tanks. The require-
ments of Section 3704.2.2.3 shall apply to outdoor cylin-
ders and tanks. Gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures
shall be located within or immediately adjacent to out-
door storage or use areas.
3704.3.2.3 Local exhaust for portable tanks. Local
exhaust for outdoor portable tanks shall be provided in
accordance with the requirements set forth in Section
3704.2.2.4.
3704.3.2.4 Piping and controls — stationary tanks.
Piping and controls for outdoor stationary tanks shall be
in accordance with the requirements set forth in Section
3704.2.2.5.
356
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS
3704.3.2.5 Treatment systems. The treatment system
requirements set forth in Section 3704.2.2.7 shall apply
to highly toxic or toxic gases located outdoors.
3704.3.2.6 Emergency power. The requirements for
emergency power set forth in Section 3704.2.2.8 shall
apply to highly toxic or toxic gases located outdoors.
3704.3.2.7 Gas detection system. The gas detection
system requirements set forth in Section 3704.2.2.10
shall apply to highly toxic or toxic gases located out-
doors.
3704.3.3 Outdoor storage weather protection for porta-
ble tanks and cylinders. Weather protection in accordance
with Section 2704.13 shall be provided for portable tanks
and cylinders located outdoors and not within gas cabinets
or exhausted enclosures. The storage area shall be equipped
with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not
required when:
1 . All materials under the weather protection struc-
ture, including hazardous materials and the con-
tainers in which they are stored, are
noncombustible.
2. The weather protection structure is located not less
than 30 feet (9144 mm) from combustible materi-
als or structures or is separated from such materials
or structures using a fire barrier complying with
Section 3704.3.2.1.1.
3704.3.4 Outdoor use of cylinders, containers and porta-
ble tanks. Cylinders, containers and portable tanks in out-
door use shall be located in gas cabinets or exhausted
enclosures.
SECTION 3705
OZONE GAS GENERATORS
3705.1 Scope. Ozone gas generators having a maximum
ozone-generating capacity of 0.5 pound (0.23 kg) or more over
a 24-hour period shall be in accordance with this section.
Exceptions:
1. Ozone-generating equipment used in Group R-3
occupancies.
2. Ozone-generating equipment used in Group H-5
occupancies.
3705.2 Design. Ozone gas generators shall be designed, fabri-
cated and tested in accordance with NEMA 250.
3705.3 Location. Ozone generators shall be located in
approved cabinets or ozone generator rooms in accordance
with Section 3705.3.1 or 3705.3.2.
Exception: An ozone gas generator within an approved
pressure vessel when located outside of buildings.
3705.3.1 Cabinets. Ozone cabinets shall be constructed of
approved materials and compatible with ozone. Cabinets
shall display an approved sign stating: OZONE GAS GEN-
ERATOR—HIGHLY TOXIC— OXIDIZER.
Cabinets shall be braced for seismic activity in accor-
dance with the International Building Code.
Cabinets shall be mechanically ventilated in accordance
with the International Mechanical Code with a minimum of
six air changes per hour.
The average velocity of ventilation at makeup air open-
ings with cabinet doors closed shall not be less than 200 feet
per minute (1.02 m/s).
3705.3.2 Ozone gas generator rooms. Ozone gas genera-
tor rooms shall be mechanically ventilated in accordance
with the International Mechanical Code with a minimum of
six air changes per hour. Ozone gas generator rooms shall be
equipped with a continuous gas detection system which will
shut off the generator and sound a local alarm when concen-
trations above the permissible exposure limit occur.
Ozone gas-generator rooms shall not be normally occu-
pied, and such rooms shall be kept free of combustible and
hazardous material storage. Room access doors shall dis-
play a:n approved sign stating: OZONE GAS GENERA-
TOR—HIGHLY TOXIC— OXIDIZER.
3705.4 Piping, valves and fittings. Piping, valves, fittings and
related components used to convey ozone shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 3705.4.1 through 3705.4.3.
3705.4.1 Piping. Piping shall be welded stainless steel pip-
ing or tubing.
Exceptions:
1 . Double-walled piping.
2. Piping, valves, fittings and related components
located in exhausted enclosures.
3705.4.2 Materials. Materials shall be compatible with
ozone and shall be rated for the design operating pressures.
3705.4.3 Identification. Piping shall be identified with the
following: OZONE GAS— HIGHLY TOXIC— OXI-
DIZER.
3705.5 Automatic shutdown. Ozone gas generators shall be
designed to shut down automatically under the following con-
ditions:
1. When the dissolved ozone concentration in the water
being treated is above saturation when measured at the
point where the water is exposed to the atmosphere.
2. When the process using generated ozone is shut down.
3. When the gas detection system detects ozone.
4. Failure of the ventilation system for the cabinet or
ozone-generator room.
5. Failure of the gas detection system.
3705.6 Manual shutdown. Manual shutdown controls shall be
provided at the generator and, where in a room, within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the main exit or exit access door.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
357
358 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 38
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
SECTION 3801
GENERAL
3801.1 Scope. Storage, handling and transportation of lique-
fied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and the installation of LP-gas
equipment pertinent to systems for such uses shall comply with
this chapter and NFPA 58. Properties of LP-gases shall be
determined in accordance with Appendix B of NFPA 58.
3801.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tions 105.6 and 105.7.
Distributors shall not fill an LP-gas container for which a
permit is required unless a permit for installation has been
issued for that location by the fire code official.
3801.3 Construction documents. Where a single container is
more than 2,000 gallons (7570 L) in water capacity or the
aggregate capacity of containers is more than 4,000 gallons (15
140 L) in water capacity, the installer shall submit construction
documents for such installation.
SECTION 3802
DEFINITIONS
3802.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LP-gas). A material
which is composed predominantly of the following hydrocar-
bons or mixtures of them: propane, propylene, butane (normal
butane or isobutane) and butylenes.
SECTION 3803
INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT
3803.1 General. LP-gas equipment shall be installed in accor-
dance with the International Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58,
except as otherwise provided in this chapter.
3803.2 Use of LP-gas containers in buildings. The use of
LP-gas containers in buildings shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 3803.2.1 and 3803.2.2.
3803.2.1 Portable containers. Portable LP-gas containers,
as defined in NFPA 58, shall not be used in buildings except
as specified in NFPA 58 and Sections 3803.2.1.1 through
3803.2.1.7.
3803.2.1.1 Use in basement, pit or similar location.
LP-gas containers shall not be used in a basement, pit or
similar location where heavier-than-air gas might col-
lect. LP-gas containers shall not be used in an
above-grade underfloor space or basement unless such
location is provided with an approved means of ventila-
tion.
Exception: Use with self-contained torch assemblies
in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.6.
3803.2.1.2 Construction and temporary heating. Por-
table containers are allowed to be used in buildings or
areas of buildings undergoing construction or for tempo-
rary heating as set forth in Sections 6.17.4, 6.17.5 and
6.17.8 of NFPA 58.
3803.2.1.3 Group F occupancies. In Group F occupan-
cies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to
supply quantities necessary for processing, research or
experimentation. Where manifolded, the aggregate
water capacity of such containers shall not exceed 735
pounds (334 kg) per manifold. Where multiple mani-
folds of such containers are present in the same room,
each manifold shall be separated from other manifolds
by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
3803.2.1.4 Group E and I occupancies. In Group E and
I occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to
be used for research and experimentation. Such contain-
ers shall not be used in classrooms. Such containers shall
not exceed a 50-pound (23 kg) water capacity in occu-
pancies used for educational purposes and shall not
exceed a 12-pound (5 kg) water capacity in occupancies
used for institutional purposes. Where more than one
such container is present in the same room, each con-
tainer shall be separated from other containers by a dis-
tance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
3803.2.1.5 Demonstration uses. Portable LP-gas con-
tainers are allowed to be used temporarily for demonstra-
tions and public exhibitions. Such containers shall not
exceed a water capacity of 12 pounds (5 kg). Where more
than one such container is present in the same room, each
container shall be separated from other containers by a
distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
3803.2.1.6 Use with self-contained torch assemblies.
Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to sup-
ply approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar
appliances. Such containers shall not exceed a water
capacity of 2.5 pounds (1 kg).
3803.2.1.7 Use for food preparation. Where approved,
listed LP-gas commercial food service appliances are
allowed to be used for food-preparation within restau-
rants and in attended commercial food-catering opera-
tions in accordance with the International Fuel Gas
Code, the International Mechanical Code and NFPA 5 8 .
3803.2.2 Industrial vehicles and floor maintenance
machines. Containers on industrial vehicles and floor
maintenance machines shall comply with NFPA 58, Section
11.12 and 11.13.
3803.3 Location of equipment and piping. Equipment and
piping shall not be installed in locations where such equipment
and piping is prohibited by the International Fuel Gas Code.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
359
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
SECTION 3804
LOCATION OF CONTAINERS
3804.1 General. The storage and handling of LP-gas and the
installation and maintenance of related equipment shall com-
ply with NFPA 58 and be subject to the approval of the fire code
official, except as provided in this chapter.
3804.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. Within
the limits established by law restricting the storage of liquefied
petroleum gas for the protection of heavily populated or con-
gested areas, the aggregate capacity of any one installation
shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons (7570 L) (see
Section 3 of the Sample Ordinance for Adoption of the Interna-
tional Fire Code on page v).
Exception: In particular installations, this capacity limit
shall be determined by the fire code official, after consider-
ation of special features such as topographical conditions,
nature of occupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of
proposed containers, degree of fire protection to be pro-
vided and capabilities of the local fire department.
3804.3 Container location. Containers shall be located with
respect to buildings, public ways, and lot lines of adjoining
property that can be built upon, in accordance with Table
3804.3.
3804.3.1 Special hazards. Containers shall also be located
with respect to special hazards such as above-ground flam-
mable or combustible liquid tanks, oxygen or gaseous
hydrogen containers, flooding or electric power lines as
specified in NFPA 58, Section 6.4.5.
3804.4 Multiple container installation. Multiple container
installations with a total water storage capacity of more than
180,000 gallons (681 300 L) [150,000-gallon (567 750 L)
LP-gas capacity] shall be subdivided into groups containing
TABLE 3804.3
LOCATION OF LP-GAS CONTAINERS
CONTAINER CAPACITY
(water gallons)
MINIMUM SEPARATION BETWEEN CONTAINERS AND
BUILDINGS, PUBLIC WAYS OR LOT LINES OF ADJOINING
PROPERTY THAT CAN BE BUILT UPON
MINIMUM SEPARATION
BETWEEN CONTAINERS"' =
(feet)
Mounded or underground
containers^
(feet)
Above-ground
containers''
(feet)
Less than 125''
10
5'
None
125 to 250
10
10
None
251 to 500
10
10
3
501 to 2,000
10
25='^
3
2,001 to 30,000
50
50
5
30,001 to 70,000
50
75
(0.25 of sum of diameters of
adjacent containers)
70,001 to 90,000
50
100
90,001 to 120,000
50
125
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. Minimum distance for underground containers shall be measured from the pressure relief device and the filUng or liquid-level gauge vent connection at the con-
tainer, except that all parts of an underground container shall be 10 feet or more from a building or lot line of adjoining property which can be built upon.
b. For other than installations in which the overhanging structure is 50 feet or more above the relief- valve discharge outlet. In applying the distance between buildings
and ASME containers with a water capacity of 1 25 gallons or more, a minimum of 50 percent of this horizontal distance shall also apply to all portions of the build-
ing which project more than 5 feet from the building wall and which are higher than the relief valve discharge outlet. This horizontal distance shall be measured
from a point determined by projecting the outside edge of such overhanging structure vertically downward to grade or other level upon which the container is
installed. Distances to the building wall shall not be less than those prescribed in this table.
c. When underground multicontainer installations are comprised of individual containers having a water capacity of 1 25 gallons or more, such containers shall be
installed so as to provide access at their ends or sides to facilitate working with cranes or hoists.
d. At a consumer site, if the aggregate water capacity of a multicontainer installation, comprised of individual containers having a water capacity of less than 125 gal-
lons, is 500 gallons or more, the minimum distance shall comply with the appropriate portion of Table 3804.3, applying the aggregate capacity rather than the
capacity per container. If more than one such installation is made, each installation shall be separated from other installations by at least 25 feet. Minimum dis-
tances between containers need not be applied.
e. The following shall apply to above-ground containers installed alongside buildings:
1. Containers of less than a 125-gallon water capacity are allowed next to the building they serve when in compliance with Items 2, 3 and 4.
2. Department of Transportation (DOTn) specification containers shall be located and installed so that the discharge from the container pressure relief device is at
least 3 feet horizontally from building openings below the level of such discharge and shall not be beneath buildings unless the space is well ventilated to the
outside and is not enclosed for more than 50 percent of its perimeter. The discharge from container pressure relief devices shall be located not less than 5 feet
from exterior sources of ignition, openings into direct-vent (sealed combustion system) appliances or mechanical ventilation air intakes.
3. ASME containers of less than a 1 25-gallon water capacity shall be located and installed such that the discharge from pressure relief devices shall not terminate
in or beneath buildings and shall be located at least 5 feet horizontally from building openings below the level of such discharge and not less than 5 feet from
exterior sources of ignition, openings into direct vent (sealed combustion system) appliances, or mechanical ventilation air intakes.
4. The filling connection and the vent from liquid-level gauges on either DOTn or ASME containers filled at the point of installation shall not be less than 10 feet
from exterior sources of ignition, openings into direct vent (sealed combustion system) appliances or mechanical ventilation air intakes.
f . This distance is allowed to be reduced to not less than 1 feet for a single container of 1 ,200-gallon water capacity or less, provided such container is at least 25 feet
from other LP-gas containers of more than 125-gallon water capacity.
360
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
not more than 1 80,000 gallons (68 1 300 L) in each group. Such
groups shall be separated by a distance of not less than 50 feet
(15 240 mm), unless the containers are protected in accordance
with one of the following:
1 . Mounded in an approved manner.
2. Protected with approved insulation on areas that are sub-
ject to impingement of ignited gas from pipelines or
other leakage.
3. Protected by firewalls of approved construction.
4. Protected by an approved system for application of water
as specified in NFPA 58, Table 6.4.2.
5. Protected by other approved means.
Where one of these forms of protection is provided, the sepa-
ration shall not be less than 25 feet (7620 mm) between con-
tainer groups.
SECTION 3805
PROHIBITED USE OF LP-GAS
3805.1 Nonapproved equipment. LP-gas shall not be used for
the purpose of operating devices or equipment unless such
device or equipment is approved for use with LP-gas.
3805.2 Release to the atmosphere. LP-gas shall not be
released to the atmosphere, except through an approved liq-
uid-level gauge or other approved device.
SECTION 3806
DISPENSING AND OVERFILLING
3806.1 Attendants. Dispensing of LP-gas shall be performed
by a qualified attendant.
3806.2 Overfilling. LP-gas containers shall not be filled or
maintained with LP-gas in excess of either the volume deter-
mined using the fixed liquid-level gauge installed by the manu-
facturer or the weight determined by the required percentage of
the water capacity marked on the container. Portable containers
shall not be refilled unless equipped with an overfilling preven-
tion device (OPD) when required by Section 5.7.6 of NFPA 58.
3806.3 Dispensing locations. The point of transfer of LP-gas
from one container to another shall be separated from expo-
sures as specified in NFPA 58.
SECTION 3807
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND DEVICES
3807.1 Safety devices. Safety devices on LP-gas containers,
equipment and systems shall not be tampered with or made
ineffective.
3807.2 Smoking and other sources of Ignition. "No Smok-
ing" signs complying with Section 310 shall be posted when
required by the fire code official. Smoking within 25 feet (7620
mm) of a point of transfer, while filling operations are in prog-
ress at containers or vehicles, shall be prohibited.
Control of other sources of ignition shall comply with Chap-
ter 3 and NFPA 58, Section 6.20.
3807.3 Clearance to combustibles. Weeds, grass, brush, trash
and other combustible materials shall be kept a minimum of 10
feet (3048 mm) from LP-gas tanks or containers.
3807.4 Protecting containers from vehicles. Where exposed
to vehicular damage due to proximity to alleys, driveways or
parking areas, LP-gas containers, regulators and piping shall
be protected in accordance with Section 312.
SECTION 3808
FIRE PROTECTION
3808.1 General. Fire protection shall be provided for installa-
tions having storage containers with a water capacity of more
than 4,000 gallons (15 140 L), as required by Section 6.23 of
NFPA 58.
3808.2 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire
extinguishers complying with Section 906 shall be provided as
specified in NFPA 58.
SECTION 3809
STORAGE OF PORTABLE LP-GAS CONTAINERS
AWAITING USE OR RESALE
3809.1 General. Storage of portable containers of 1,000
pounds (454 kg) or less, whether filled, partially filled or
empty, at consumer sites or distributing points, and for resale
by dealers or resellers shall comply with Sections 3809.2
through 3809.15.
Exceptions:
1 . Containers that have not previously been in LP-gas
service.
2. Containers at distributing plants.
3. Containers at consumer sites or distributing points,
which are connected for use.
3809.2 Exposure hazards. Containers in storage shall be
located in a manner which minimizes exposure to excessive
temperature rise, physical damage or tampering.
3809.3 Position. Containers in storage having individual water
capacity greater than 2.5 pounds (1 kg) [nominal 1-pound
(0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] shall be positioned with the pres-
sure relief valve in direct communication with the vapor space
of the container.
3809.4 Separation from means of egress. Containers stored in
buildings in accordance with Sections 3809.9 and 3809. 11 shall
not be located near exit access doors, exits, stairways, or in areas
normally used, or intended to be used, as a means of egress.
3809.5 Quantity. Empty containers that have been in LP-gas
service shall be considered as full containers for the purpose of
determining the maximum quantities of LP-gas allowed in Sec-
tions 3809.9 and 3809.11.
3809.6 Storage on roofs. Containers which are not connected
for use shall not be stored on roofs.
3809.7 Storage in basement, pit or similar location. LP-gas
containers shall not be stored in a basement, pit or similar loca-
tion where heavier-than-air gas might collect. LP-gas contain-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
361
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
ers shall not be stored in above-grade underfloor spaces or
basements unless such location is provided with an approved
means of ventilation.
Exception: Department of Transportation (DOTn) specifi-
cation cylinders with a maximum water capacity of 2.5
pounds (1 kg) for use in completely self-contained hand
torches and similar applications. The quantity of LP-gas
shall not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
3809.8 Protection of valves on containers in storage. Con-
tainer valves shall be protected by screw-on-type caps or col-
lars which shall be securely in place on all containers stored
regardless of whether they are full, partially full or empty. Con-
tainer outlet valves shall be closed or plugged.
3809.9 Storage within buildings accessible to the public.
Department of Transportation (DOTn) specification cylinders
with maximum water capacity of 2.5 pounds (1 kg) used in
completely self-contained hand torches and similar applica-
tions are allowed to be stored or displayed in a building accessi-
ble to the public. The quantity of LP-gas shall not exceed 200
pounds (91 kg) except as provided in Section 3809.11.
3809.10 Storage within buildings not accessible to the pub-
lic. The maximum quantity allowed in one storage location in
buildings not accessible to the public, such as industrial build-
ings, shall not exceed a water capacity of 735 pounds (334 kg)
[nominal 300 pounds (136 kg) of LP-gas]. Where additional
storage locations are required on the same floor within the
same building, they shall be separated by a minimum of 300
feet (91 440 mm). Storage beyond these limitations shall com-
ply with Section 3809.11.
3809.10.1 Quantities on equipment and vehicles. Con-
tainers carried as part of service equipment on highway
mobile vehicles need not be considered in the total storage
capacity in Section 3809.10, provided such vehicles are
stored in private garages and do not carry more than three
LP-gas containers with a total aggregate LP-gas capacity
not exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg) per vehicle. Container
valves shall be closed.
3809.11 Storage within rooms used for gas manufacturing.
Storage within buildings or rooms used for gas manufacturing,
gas storage, gas-air mixing and vaporization, and compressors
not associated with liquid transfer shall comply with Sections
3809.11.1 and 3809. 11. 2.
3809.11.1 Quantity limits. The maximum quantity of
LP-gas shall be 10,000 pounds (4540 kg).
3809.11.2 Construction. The construction of such build-
ings and rooms shall comply with requirements for Group H
occupancies in ihe. International Building Code; Chapter 10
of NFPA 58, and both of the following:
1. Adequate vents shall be provided to the outside at
both top and bottom, located at least 5 feet (1524 mm)
from building openings.
2. The entire area shall be classified for the purposes of
ignition source control in accordance with Section
6.20 of NFPA 58.
3809.12 Location of storage outside of buildings. Storage
outside of buildings of containers awaiting use, resale or part of
a cylinder exchange program shall be located in accordance |
with Table 3809.12.
3809.13 Protection of containers. Containers shall be stored
within a suitable enclosure or otherwise protected against tam-
pering. Vehicular protection shall be provided as required by
the fire code official.
3809.14 Alternative location and protection of storage.
Containers located outside of buildings shall not be located
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of any exit access doors, exits, stair-
ways or in areas normally used, or intended to be used, as a
means of egress.
3809.15 Alternative location and protection of storage.
Where the provisions of Sections 3809.12 and 3809.13 are
«
TABLE 3809.12
SEPARATION FROM EXPOSURES OF CONTAINERS AWAITING USE, RESALE OR EXCHANGE
STORED OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS FROM EXPOSURES
QUANTITY OF
LP-GAS STORED
(pounds)
MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE FROM STORED CYLINDERS TO (feet):
Nearest
important
building or group
of buildings or
line of adjoining
property that
may be built
upon
Line of adjoining
property occupied by
schools, places of
religious worship,
hospitals, athletic fields
or other points of public
gathering; busy
thoroughfares; or
sidewalks
LP-gas
dispensing
station
Doorway or opening
to a building with
two or more means
of egress
Doorway or
opening to a
building with one
means of egress
Combustible
materials
Motor vehicle
fuel dispenser
720 or less
5
5
10
10
20
721 - 2,500
10
10
5
10
10
20
2,501 - 6,000
10
10
10
10
10
10
20
6,001 - 10,000
20
20
20
20
20
10
20
Over 10,000
25
25
25
25
25
10
20
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
362
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
impractical at construction sites, or at buildings or structures
undergoing major renovation or repairs, the storage of contain-
ers shall be as required by the fire code official.
SECTION 3810
CONTAINERS NOT IN SERVICE
3810.1 Temporarily out of service. Containers whose use has
been temporarily discontinued shall comply with all of the fol-
lowing:
1. Be disconnected from appliance piping.
2. Have container outlets, except relief valves, closed or
plugged.
3 . Be positioned with the relief valve in direct communica-
tion with container vapor space.
3810.2 Permanently out of service. Containers to be placed
permanently out of service shall be removed from the site.
SECTION 3811
PARKING AND GARAGING
3811.1 General. Parking of LP-gas tank vehicles shall comply
with Sections 3811.2 and 3811.3.
Exception: In cases of accident, breakdown or other emer-
i gencies, tank vehicles are allowed to be parked and left unat-
tended at any location while the operator is obtaining
assistance.
3811.2 Unattended parking. The unattended parking of
LP-gas tank vehicle shall be in accordance with Sections
3811.2.1 and 3811.2.2.
3811.2.1 Near residential, educational and institutional
occupancies and other high-risk areas. LP-gas tank vehi-
cles shall not be left unattended at any time on residential
streets or within 500 feet (152 m) of a residential area, apart-
ment or hotel complex, educational facility, hospital or care
facility. Tank vehicles shall not be left unattended at any
other place that would, in the opinion of the fire code offi-
cial, pose an extreme life hazard.
3811.2.2 Durations exceeding 1 hour. LP-gas tank vehi-
cles parked at any one point for longer thanl hour shall be
located as follows:
1 . Off public streets, highways, public avenues or public
alleys.
2. Inside of a bulk plant.
3. At other approved locations not less than 50 feet (15
240 mm) from buildings other than those approved
for the storage or servicing of such vehicles.
3811.3 Garaging. Garaging of LP-gas tank vehicles shall be as
specified in NFPA 58. Vehicles with LP-gas fuel systems are
allowed to be stored or serviced in garages as specified in Sec-
tion 11.15 of NFPA 58.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
363
364 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
CHAPTER 39
ORGANIC PEROXIDES
SECTION 3901
GENERAL
3901.1 Scope. The storage and use of organic peroxides shall
be in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 27.
Unclassified detonable organic peroxides that are capable of
detonation in their normal shipping containers under condi-
tions of fire exposure shall be stored in accordance with Chap-
ter 33.
3901.2 Permits. Permits shall be required for organic perox-
ides as set forth in Section 105.6.
SECTION 3902
DEFINITIONS
3902.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ORGANIC PEROXIDE. An organic compound that contains
the bivalent -0-0- structure and which may be considered to be
a structural derivative of hydrogen peroxide where one or both
of the hydrogen atoms have been replaced by an organic radi-
cal. Organic peroxides can present an explosion hazard (deto-
nation or deflagration) or they can be shock sensitive. They can
also decompose into various unstable compounds over an
extended period of time.
Class I. Describes those formulations that are capable of
deflagration but not detonation.
Class II. Describes those formulations that bum very rap-
idly and that pose a moderate reactivity hazard.
Class III. Describes those formulations that bum rapidly
and that pose a moderate reactivity hazard.
Class IV. Describes those formulations that bum in the
same manner as ordinary combustibles and that pose a mini-
mal reactivity hazard.
Class V. Describes those formulations that bum with less
intensity than ordinary combustibles or do not sustain com-
bustion and that pose no reactivity hazard.
Unclassified detonable. Organic peroxides that are capable
of detonation. These peroxides pose an extremely
high-explosion hazard through rapid explosive decomposi-
tion.
SECTION 3903
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3903.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of organic per-
oxides in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 3901 and 3903.
3903.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use
by occupancy. The indoor storage and use of organic per-
oxides shall be in accordance with Sections 3903.1.1.1
through 3903.1.1.4.
3903.1.1.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. In Group
A, E, I or U occupancies, any amount of unclassified
detonable and Class I organic peroxides shall be stored in
accordance with the following:
1. Unclassified detonable and Class I organic perox-
ides shall be stored in hazardous materials storage
cabinets complying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. The hazardous materials storage cabinets shall not
contain other storage.
3903.1.1.2 Group R occupancies. Unclassified deton-
able and Class I organic peroxides shall not be stored or
used within Group R occupancies.
3903.1.1.3 Group B, F, M or S occupancies. Unclassi-
fied detonable and Class I organic peroxides shall not be
stored or used in offices, or retail sales areas of Group B,
F, M or S occupancies.
3903.1.1.4 Classrooms. In classrooms in Group B, F or
M occupancies, any amount of unclassified detonable
and Class 1 organic peroxides shall be stored in accor-
dance with the following.
1. Unclassified detonable and Class 1 organic perox-
ides shall be stored in hazardous materials storage
cabinets complying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. The hazardous materials storage cabinets shall not
contain other storage.
3903.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of organic peroxides
in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in accordance
with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
SECTION 3904
STORAGE
3904.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of organic peroxides in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
Indoor storage of unclassified detonable organic peroxides
that are capable of detonation in their normal shipping contain-
ers under conditions of fire exposure shall be stored in accor-
dance with Chapter 33.
3904.1.1 Detached storage. Storage of organic peroxides
shall be in detached buildings when required by Section
2703.8.2.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
365
ORGANIC PEROXIDES
3904.1.2 Distance from detached storage buildings to
exposures. In addition to the requirements of the Interna-
tional Building Code, detached storage buildings shall be
located in accordance with Table 3904.1.2.
3904.1.3 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to the requirements
of Section 2704.12, floors of storage areas shall be of liq-
uid-tight construction.
3904.1.4 Electrical wiring and equipment. In addition to
the requirements of Section 2703.9.4, electrical wiring and
equipment in storage areas for Class I or II organic perox-
ides shall comply with the requirements for electrical Class
I, Division 2 locations.
3904.1.5 Smoke detection. An approved supervised smoke
detection system in accordance with Section 907 shall be
provided in rooms or areas where Class I, II or III organic
peroxides are stored. Activation of the smoke detection sys-
tem shall sound a local alarm.
Exception: A smoke detection system shall not be
required in detached storage buildings equipped
throughout with an approved automatic fire-extinguish-
ing system complying with Chapter 9.
3904.1.6 Maximum quantities. Maximum allowable
quantities per building in a mixed occupancy building shall
not exceed the amounts set forth in Table 2703.8.2. Maxi-
mum allowable quantities per building in a detached storage
building shall not exceed the amounts specified in Table
3904.1.2.
3904.1.7 Storage arrangement. Storage arrangements for
organic peroxides shall be in accordance with Table
3904.1.7 and shall comply with all of the following:
1. Containers and packages in storage areas shall be
closed.
2. Bulk storage shall not be in piles or bins.
3. A minimum 2-foot (610 mm) clear space shall be
maintained between storage and uninsulated metal
walls.
4. Fifty-five-gallon (208 L) drums shall not be stored
more than one drum high.
3904.1.8 Location in building. The storage of Class I or II
organic peroxides shall be on the ground floor. Class III
organic peroxides shall not be stored in basements.
3904.1.9 Contamination. Organic peroxides shall be
stored in their original DOTn shipping containers. Organic
peroxides shall be stored in a manner to prevent contamina-
tion.
3904.1.10 Explosion control. Indoor storage rooms, areas
and buildings containing unclassified detonable and Class I
organic peroxides shall be provided with explosion control
in accordance with Section 911.
3904.1.11 Standby power. Standby power in accordance
with Section 604 shall be provided for storage areas of Class
I and unclassified detonable organic peroxide.
3904.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of organic perox-
ides in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantities
per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
3904.2.1 Distance from storage to exposures. Outdoor
storage areas for organic peroxides shall be located in accor-
dance with Table 3904.1.2
3904.2.2 Electrical wiring and equipment. In addition to
the requirements of Section 2703.9.4, electrical wiring and
equipment in outdoor storage areas containing unclassified
detonable. Class I or II organic peroxides shall comply with
the requirements for electrical Class I, Division 2 locations.
3904.2.3 Maximum quantities. Maximum quantities of
organic peroxides in outdoor storage shall be in accordance
with Table 3904.1.2.
3904.2.4 Storage arrangement. Storage arrangements
shall be in accordance with Table 3904.1.7.
3904.2.5 Separation. In addition to the requirements of
Section 2703.9.8, outdoor storage areas for organic perox-
ides in amounts exceeding those specified in Table 2703.8.2
shall be located a minimum distance of 50 feet (15 240 mm)
from other hazardous material storage.
TABLE 3904.1 .2
ORGANIC PEROXIDES— DISTANCE TO EXPOSURES FROM
DETACHED STORAGE BUILDINGS OR OUTDOOR STORAGE AREAS
ORGANIC
PEROXIDE CLASS
MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE
Distance to buildings, lot lines, public streets, public alleys,
public ways or means of egress
Distance between individual detached storage buildings
or individual outdoor storage areas
50 feet
100 feet
150 feet
20 feet
75 feet
100 feet
I
2,000
20,000
175,000
2,000
20,000
175,000
II
100,000
200,000
No Limit
100,000^
No Limit
No Limit
III
200,000
No Limit
No Limit
200,000'
No Limit
No Limit
IV
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
V
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. When the amount of organic peroxide stored exceeds this amount, the minimum separation shall be 50 feet.
366
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
ORGANIC PEROXIDES
TABLE 3904.1.7
STORAGE OF ORGANIC PEROXIDES
ORGANIC PEROXIDE
CLASS
PILE CONFIGURATION
MAXIMUM
QUANTITY PER
BUILDING
Maximum width
(feet)
Maximum height
(feet)
Minimum distance to next pile
(feet)
Minimum distance to walls
(feet)
I
6
8
4'
4'
Notec
II
10
8
4'
4'
Notec
III
10
8
4'
4'
Notec
IV
16
10
T'
4"
No Requirement
V
No Requirement
No Requirement
No Requirement
No Requirement
No Requirement
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. At least one main aisle with a minimum width of 8 feet shall divide the storage area.
b. Distance to noncombustible walls is allowed to be reduced to 2 feet.
c. See Table 3904. 1 .2 for maximum quantities.
d. The distance shall not be less than one-half the pile height.
SECTION 3905
USE
3905.1 General. The use of organic peroxides in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) or 2703 . 1 . 1 (3) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
367
368 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
CHAPTER 40
OXIDIZERS
SECTION 4001
GENERAL
4001.1 Scope. The storage and use of oxidizers shall be in
accordance with this chapter and Chapter 27. Compressed
gases shall also comply with Chapter 30.
Exceptions:
1 . Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group
S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11.
2. Bulk oxygen systems at industrial and institutional
consumer sites shall be in accordance with NFPA 55.
4001.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 4002
DEFINITIONS
4002.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for
the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
BULK OXYGEN SYSTEM. An assembly of equipment,
such as oxygen storage containers, pressure regulators, safety
devices, vaporizers, manifolds and interconnecting piping, that
has a storage capacity of more than 20,000 cubic feet (566 m^)
of oxygen at normal temperature and pressure (NT?) including
unconnected reserves on hand at the site. The bulk oxygen sys-
tem terminates at the point where oxygen at service pressure
first enters the supply line. The oxygen containers can be sta-
tionary or movable, and the oxygen can be stored as a gas or liq-
uid.
OXIDIZER. A material that readily yields oxygen or other
oxidizing gas, or that readily reacts to promote or initiate com-
bustion of combustible materials. Examples of other oxidizing
gases include bromine, chlorine and fluorine.
Class 4. An oxidizer that can undergo an explosive reaction
due to contamination or exposure to thermal or physical
shock. In addition, the oxidizer will enhance the burning
rate and can cause spontaneous ignition of combustibles.
Class 3. An oxidizer that will cause a severe increase in the
burning rate of combustible materials with which it comes
in contact or that will undergo vigorous self-sustained
decomposition caused by contamination or exposure to
heat.
Class 2. An oxidizer that will cause a moderate increase in
the burning rate or that causes spontaneous ignition of com-
bustible materials with which it comes in contact.
Class 1. An oxidizer whose primary hazard is that it slightly
increases the burning rate but which does not cause sponta-
neous ignition when it comes in contact with combustible
materials.
OXIDIZING GAS. A gas that can support and accelerate
combustion of other materials.
SECTION 4003
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4003.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of oxidizers in
amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 4001 and 4003. Oxidizing gases
shall also comply with Chapter 30.
4003.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use
by occupancy. The indoor storage and use of oxidizers shall
be in accordance with Sections 4003.1.1.1 through
4003.1.1.3.
4003.1.1.1 Class 4 liquid and solid oxidizers. The stor-
age and use of Class 4 liquid and solid oxidizers shall
comply with Sections 4003.1.1.1.1 through
4003.1.1.1.4.
4003.1.1.1.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. In
Group A, E, I or U occupancies, any amount of Class
4 liquid and solid oxidizers shall be stored in accor-
dance with the following:
1 . Class 4 liquid and solid oxidizers shall be stored
in hazardous materials storage cabinets com-
plying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. The hazardous materials storage cabinets shall
not contain other storage.
4003.1.1.1.2 Group R occupancies. Class 4 liquid
and solid oxidizers shall not be stored or used within
Group R occupancies.
4003.1.1.1.3 Offices, and retail sales areas. Class 4
liquid and solid oxidizers shall not be stored or used in
offices, or retail sales areas of Group B, F, M or S
occupancies.
4003.1.1.1.4 Classrooms. In classrooms of Group B,
F or M occupancies, any amount of Class 4 liquid and
solid oxidizers shall be stored in accordance with the
following:
1 . Class 4 liquid and solid oxidizers shall be stored
in hazardous materials storage cabinets com-
plying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. Hazardous materials storage cabinets shall not
contain other storage.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
369
OXIDIZERS
4003.1.1.2 Class 3 liquid and solid oxidizers. A maxi-
mum of 200 pounds (9 1 kg) of solid or 20 gallons (76 L)
of liquid Class 3 oxidizer is allowed in Group I occupan-
cies when such materials are necessary for maintenance
purposes or operation of equipment. The oxidizers shall
be stored in approved containers and in an approved
manner.
4003.1.1.3 Oxidizing gases. Except for cylinders not
exceeding a capacity of 250 cubic feet (7 m^) each used
for maintenance purposes, patient care or operation of
equipment, oxidizing gases shall not be stored or used in
Group A, B, E, I or R occupancies.
The aggregate quantities of gases used for mainte-
nance purposes and operation of equipment shall not
exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area
listed in Table 2703.1.1(1).
Medical gas systems and medical gas supply cylinders
shall also be in accordance with Section 3006.
4003.1.2 Emergency shutoff. Compressed gas systems
conveying oxidizing gases shall be provided with approved
manual or automatic emergency shutoff valves that can be
activated at each point of use and at each source.
4003.1.2.1 Shutoff at source. A manual or automatic
fail-safe emergency shutoff valve shall be installed on
supply piping at the cylinder or bulk source. Manual or
automatic cylinder valves are allowed to be used as the
required emergency shutoff valve when the source of
supply is limited to unmanifolded cylinder sources.
4003.1.2.2 Shutoff at point of use. A manual or auto-
matic emergency shutoff valve shall be installed on the
supply piping at the point of use or at a point where the
equipment using the gas is connected to the supply sys-
tem.
4003.1.3 Ignition source control. Ignition sources in areas
containing oxidizing gases shall be controlled in accor-
dance with Section 2703.7.
4003.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of oxidizers in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance
with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
SECTION 4004
STORAGE
4004.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of oxidizers in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703 .1.1(1) shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
4004.1.1 Detached storage. Storage of liquid and sohd oxi-
dizers shall be in detached buildings when required by Sec-
tion 2703.8.2.
4004.1.2 Distance from detached storage buildings to
exposures. In addition to the requirements of the Interna-
tional Building Code, detached storage buildings shall be
located in accordance with Table 4004.1.2.
4004.1.3 Explosion control. Indoor storage rooms, areas
and buildings containing Class 4 liquid or solid oxidizers
shall be provided with explosion control in accordance with
Section 911.
4004.1.4 Automatic sprinkler system. The automatic
sprinkler system shall be designed in accordance with
NFPA 430.
4004.1.5 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to Section
2704.12, floors of storage areas for liquid and solid oxidiz-
ers shall be of liquid-tight construction.
TABLE 4004.1 .2
OXIDIZER LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS— DISTANCE FROM DETACHED
BUILDINGS AND OUTDOOR STORAGE AREAS TO EXPOSURES
OXIDIZER
CLASS
WEIGHT
(pounds)
MINIMUM DISTANCE TO BUILDINGS,
LOT LINES, PUBLIC STREETS,
PUBLIC ALLEYS, PUBLIC WAYS OR
MEANS OF EGRESS
(feet)
1
Note a
Not Required
2
Note a
35
3
Note a
50
4
Over 10 to 100
75
101 to 500
100
501 to 1,000
125
1,001 to 3,000
200
3,001 to 5,000
300
5,001 to 10,000
400
Over 10,000
As required by the
fire code official
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. Any quantity over the amount required for detached storage in accordance
with Section 2703.8.2, or over the outdoor maximum allowable quantity for
outdoor control areas.
4004.1.6 Smoke detection. An approved supervised smoke
detection system in accordance with Section 907 shall be
installed in liquid and solid oxidizer storage areas. Activa-
tion of the smoke detection system shall sound a local alarm.
Exception: Detached storage buildings protected by an
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
4004.1.7 Storage conditions. The maximum quantity of
oxidizers per building in detached storage buildings shall
not exceed those quantities set forth in Tables 4004.1.7(1)
through 4004.1.7(4).
The storage configuration for liquid and solid oxidizers
shall be as set forth in Tables 4004.1.7(1) through
4004.1.7(4).
Class 2 oxidizers shall not be stored in basements except
when such storage is in stationary tanks.
Class 3 and 4 oxidizers in amounts exceeding the maxi-
mum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Section
2703.1 shall be stored on the ground floor only.
370
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
OXIDIZERS
TABLE 4004.1.7(1)
STORAGE OF CLASS 1 OXIDIZER LIQUIDS AND
SOLIDS IN COMBUSTIBLE CONTAINERS'
TABLE 4004.1.7(4)
STORAGE OF CLASS 4 OXIDIZER LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS
STORAGE CONFIGURATION
LIMITS (feet)
Piles
Maximum length
Maximum width
Maximum height
Minimum distance to next pile
Minimum distance to walls
No Limit
50
20
3
2
Maximum quantity per pile
No Limit
Maximum quantity per building
No Limit
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Storage in noncombustible containers or in bulk in detached storage build-
ings is not limited as to quantity or arrangement.
TABLE 4004.1 .7(2)
STORAGE OF CLASS 2 OXIDIZER LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS'"
STORAGE CONFIGURATION
LIMITS
Segregated
storage
Cutoff
storage
rooms''
Detached
building
Piles
Maximum width
Maximum height
Minimum distance to next pile
Minimum distance to walls
16 feet
10 feet
Noted
2 feet
25 feet
12 feet
Noted
2 feet
25 feet
12 feet
Noted
2 feet
Maximum quantity per pile
20 tons
50 tons
200 tons
Maximum quantity per building
200 tons
500 tons
No Limit
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ton = 0.907185 metric ton.
a. Storage in noncombustible containers is not limited as to quantity or
arrangement, except that piles shall be at least 2 feet from walls in
sprinklered buildings and 4 feet from walls in nonsprinklered buildings; the
distance between piles shall not be less than the pile height.
b. Quantity limits shall be reduced by 50 percent in buildings or portions of
buildings used for retail sales.
c. Cutoff storage rooms shall be separated from the remainder of the building
by 2-hour fire barriers.
d. Aisle width shall not be less than the pile height.
TABLE 4004.1 .7(3)
STORAGE OF CLASS 3 OXIDIZER LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS'"
STORAGE CONFIGURATION
LIMITS
Segregated
storage
Cutoff
storage
rooms"
Detached
building
Piles
Maximum width
Maximum height
Minimum distance to next pile
Minimum distance to walls
12 feet
8 feet
Noted
4 feet
16 feet
10 feet
Noted
4 feet
20 feet
10 feet
Noted
4 feet
Maximum quantity per pile
20 tons
30 tons
150 tons
Maximum quantity per building
100 tons
500 tons
No Limit
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ton = 0.907185 metric ton.
a. Storage in noncombustible containers is not limited as to quantity or
arrangement, except that piles shall be at least 2 feet from walls in
sprinklered buildings and 4 feet from walls in nonsprinklered buildings; the
distance between piles shall not be less than the pile height.
b. Quantity Umits shall be reduced by 50 percent in buildings or portions of
buildings used for retail sales.
c. Cutoff storage rooms shall be separated from the remainder of the building
by 2-hour fire barriers.
d. Aisle width shall not be less than the pile height.
STORAGE CONFIGURATION
LIMITS (feet)
Piles
Maximum length
Maximum width
Maximum height
Minimum distance to next pile
10
4
8
8
Maximum quantity per building
No Limit
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
4004.1.8 Separation of Class 4 oxidizers from other
materials. In addition to the requirements in Section
2703.9.8, Class 4 oxidizer liquids and solids shall be sepa-
rated from other hazardous materials by not less than a
1-hour fire barrier or stored in hazardous materials storage
cabinets.
Detached storage buildings for Class 4 oxidizer liquids
and solids shall be located a minimum of 50 feet (15 240
mm) from other hazardous materials storage.
4004.1.9 Contamination. Liquid and solid oxidizers shall
not be stored on or against combustible surfaces. Liquid and
solid oxidizers shall be stored in a manner to prevent con-
tamination.
4004.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of oxidizers in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per con-
trol area set forth in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall be in accordance
with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter. Oxidizing
gases shall also comply with Chapter 30.
4004.2.1 Distance from storage to exposures for liquid
and solid oxidizers. Outdoor storage areas for liquid and
solid oxidizers shall be located in accordance with Table
4004.1.2.
4004.2.2 Distance from storage to exposures for oxidizer
gases. Outdoor storage areas for oxidizer gases shall be
located in accordance with Table 4004.2.2.
4004.2.3 Storage configuration for liquid and solid oxi-
dizers. Storage configuration for liquid and solid oxidizers
shall be in accordance with Tables 4004.1.7(1) through
4004.1.7(4).
4004.2.4 Storage configuration for oxidizer gases. Stor-
age configuration for oxidizer gases shall be in accordance
with Table 4004.2.2.
SECTION 4005
USE
4005.1 Scope. The use of oxidizers in amounts exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in
Table 2703.1.1(1) or 2703.1.1(3) shall be in accordance with
Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter. Oxidizing gases
shall also comply with Chapter 30.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
371
OXIDIZERS
TABLE 4004.2.2
OXIDIZER GASES — DISTANCES FROM STORAGE TO EXPOSURES^
QUANTITY OF GAS STORED
(cubic feet at NTP)
DISTANCE TO A BUILDING NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE
MANUFACTURE OR DISTRIBUTION OF OXIDIZER GASES OR
PUBLIC WAY OR LOT LINE THAT CAN BE BUILT UPON (feet)
DISTANCE BETWEEN
STORAGE AREAS
(feet)
- 50,000
5
5
50,001 - 100,000
10
10
100,001
15
10
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
I a. The minimum required distances shall not apply when fire barriers without openings or penetrations having a minimum fire-resistance rating of 2 hours interrupt
the line of sight between the storage and the exposure. The configuration of the fire barrier shall be designed to allow natural ventilation to prevent the accumulation
of hazardous gas concentrations.
372
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
CHAPTER 41
PYROPHORIC MATERIALS
SECTION 4101
GENERAL
4101.1 Scope. The storage and use of pyrophoric materials
shall be in accordance with this chapter. Compressed gases
shall also comply with Chapter 30.
4101.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 4102
DEFINITIONS
4102.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
PYROPHORIC. A chemical with an autoignition tempera-
ture in air, at or below a temperature of 130°F (54°C).
SECTION 4103
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4103.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of pyrophoric
materials in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 4101 and 4103.
4103.1.1 Emergency shutoff. Compressed gas systems
conveying pyrophoric gases shall be provided with
approved manual or automatic emergency shutoff valves
that can be activated at each point of use and at each source.
4103.1.1.1 Shutoff at source. An automatic emergency
shutoff valve shall be installed on supply piping at the
cylinder or bulk source. The shutoff valve shall be oper-
ated by a remotely located manually activated shutdown
control located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from the
source of supply. Manual or automatic cylinder valves
are allowed to be used as the required emergency shutoff
valve when the source of supply is limited to
unmanifolded cylinder sources.
4103.1.1.2 Shutoff at point of use. A manual or auto-
matic emergency shutoff valve shall be installed on the
supply piping at the point of use or at a point where the
equipment using the gas is connected to the supply sys-
tem.
4103.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of pyrophoric mate-
rials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity
per control area indicated in Section 2703.1 shall be in accor-
dance with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
SECTION 4104
STORAGE
4104.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of pyrophoric materi-
als in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1), shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
The storage of silane gas and gas mixtures with a silane con-
centration of 2 percent or more by volume, shall be in accor-
dance with Section 4106.
4104.1.1 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to the requirements
of Section 2704.12, floors of storage areas containing
pyrophoric liquids shall be of liquid-tight construction.
4104.1.2 Pyrophoric solids and liquids. Storage of
pyrophoric solids and liquids shall be limited to a maximum
area of 100 square feet (9.3 m^) per pile. Storage shall not
exceed 5 feet (1524 mm) in height. Individual containers
shall not be stacked.
Aisles between storage piles shall be a minimum of 10
feet (3048 mm) in width.
Individual tanks or containers shall not exceed 500 gal-
lons (1893 L) in capacity.
4104.1.3 Pyrophoric gases. Storage of pyrophoric gases
shall be in detached buildings where required by Section
2703.8.2.
4104.1.4 Separation from incompatible materials. In
addition to the requirements of Section 2703.9.8, indoor
storage of pyrophoric materials shall be isolated from
incompatible hazardous materials by 1-hour fire barriers
with openings protected in accordance with the Interna-
tional Building Code.
Exception: Storage in approved hazardous materials
storage cabinets constructed in accordance with Section
2703.8.7.
4104.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of pyrophoric
materials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
The storage of silane gas, and gas mixtures with a silane con-
centration of 2 percent or more by volume, shall be in accor-
dance with Section 4106.
4104.2.1 Distance from storage to exposures. The separa-
tion of pyrophoric solids, liquids and gases from buildings,
lot lines, public streets, pubhc alleys, public ways or means
of egress shall be in accordance with the following:
1 . Solids and liquids. Two times the separation required
by Chapter 34 for Class IB flammable liquids.
2. Gases. The location and maximum amount of
pyrophoric gas per storage area shall be in accordance
with Table 4104.2.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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PYROPHORIC MATERIALS
TABLE 4104.2.1
PYROPHORIC GASES— DISTANCE FROM STORAGE TO EXPOSURES'
MAXIMUM
AMOUNT PER
STORAGE AREA
(cubic feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
BETWEEN
STORAGE AREAS
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE
TO LOT LINES OF
PROPERTY THAT
CAN BE BUILT UPON
(feet)
MINIMUM
DISTANCE TO
PUBLIC STREETS,
PUBLIC ALLEYS OR
PUBLIC WAYS
(feet)
MINIMUM DISTANCE TO BUILDINGS ON THE SAME PROPERTY
Nonrated
construction or
openings within
25 feet
Two-hour
construction and no
openings within 25
feet
Four-hour
construction and no
openings within 25
feet
250
5
25
5
5
2,500
10
50
10
10
5
7,500
20
100
20
20
10
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 ml
a. The minimum required distances shall be reduced to 5 feet when protective structures having a minimum fire resistance of 2 hours interrupt the line of sight
between the container and the exposure. The protective structure shall be at least 5 feet from the exposure. The configuration of the protective structure shall allow
natural ventilation to prevent the accumulation of hazardous gas concentrations.
4104.2.2 Weather protection. When overhead construc-
tion is provided for sheltering outdoor storage areas of
pyrophoric materials, the storage areas shall be provided
with approved automatic fire-extinguishing system protec-
tion.
SECTION 4105
USE
4105.1 General. The use of pyrophoric materials in amounts
exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area
indicated in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) or 2703 . 1 . 1 (3 ) shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
4105.2 Weather protection. When overhead construction is
provided for sheltering of outdoor use areas of pyrophoric
materials, the use areas shall be provided with approved auto-
matic fire-extinguishing system protection.
4105.3 Silane gas. The use of silane gas, and gas mixtures with
a silane concentration of 2 percent or more by volume, shall be
in accordance with Section 4106.
SECTION 4106
SILANE GAS
4106.1 General requirements. The storage and use of silane
gas and gas mixtures with a silane concentration of 2 percent or
more by volume, in amounts exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area indicated in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) or
2703.1.1(3), shall be in accordance with this section.
4106.1.1 Building construction. Indoor storage and use of
silane gas shall be within a room or building conforming to
the International Building Code.
4106.1.2 Flow control. Compressed gas containers, cylin-
ders and tanks containing silane gas, and gas mixtures with a
silane concentration of 2 percent or more by volume, shall
be equipped with reduced flow valves equipped with restric-
tive-flow orifices not exceeding 0.010 inch (0.254 mm) in
diameter. The presence of the restrictive flow orifice shall be
indicated on the valve and on the container, cylinder or tank
by means of a label placed at a prominent location by the
manufacturer.
Exceptions:
1 . Manufacturing and filling facilities where silane is
produced or mixed and stored prior to sale.
2. Outdoor installations consisting of permanently
mounted cylinders connected to a manifold, pro-
vided that the outlet connection from the manifold
is equipped with a restrictive flow orifice not
exceeding 0.125 inch (3.175 mm) in diameter and
the setback distance to exposures is not less than
40 feet (12 192 mm). Footnote a of Table 4104.2.1
shall not apply.
4106.1.3 Valves. Container, cylinder and tank valves shall
be constructed of stainless steel or other approved materials.
Valves shall be equipped with outlet fittings in accordance
withCGAV-1.
4106.2 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of silane gas, and gas
mixtures with a silane concentration of 2 percent or more by
volume, shall be in accordance with Section 4104.1 and Sec-
tions 4106.2.1 through 4106.2.3.
4106.2.1 Fire protection. When automatic fire-extinguish-
ing systems are required, automatic sprinkler systems shall
be used.
4106.2.2 Exhausted enclosures or gas cabinets. When
provided, exhausted enclosures and gas cabinets shall be
constructed as follows:
1. Exhausted enclosures and gas cabinets shall be in
accordance with Sections 2703.8.5 and 2703.8.6,
respectively.
2. Exhausted enclosures and gas cabinets shall be inter-
nally sprinklered.
3. The velocity of ventilation across un welded fittings
and connections on the piping system shall not be less
than 200 feet per minute (1.02 m/s).
4. The average velocity at the face of the access ports or
windows in the gas cabinet shall not be less than 200
feet per minute ( 1 .02 m/s) with a minimum velocity of
150 feet per minute (0.76 m/s) at any point of the
access port or window.
374
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PYROPHORIC MATERIALS
4106.2.3 Emergency power. The ventilation system stiall
be provided with an automatic emergency power source in
accordance with Section 604 and designed to operate at full
capacity.
4106.3 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of silane gas, and
gas mixtures with a silane concentration of 2 percent or more
by volume, shall be in accordance with Section 4104.2 and
Sections 4106.3.1 through 4106.3.4.
4106.3.1 Volume. The maximum volume for each nest shall
not exceed 10,000 cubic feet (283.2 m^) of gas.
4106.3.2 Aisles. Storage nests shall be separated by aisles a
minimum of 6 feet (1829 mm) in width.
4106.3.3 Separation. Storage shall be located a minimum
of 25 feet (7620 mm) from lot lines, public streets, public
alleys, public ways, means of egress or buildings.
4106.3.4 Weather protection. The clear height of overhead
construction provided for sheltering of outdoor storage
shall not be less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
4106.4 Indoor use and dispensing. The indoor use and dis-
pensing of silane gas and gas mixtures with a silane concentra-
tion of 2 percent or more by volume, in amounts exceeding the
maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in
Table 2703.1.1(1) shall be in accordance with Sections 4105
and this section.
4106.4.1 Exhausted enclosures or gas cabinets. When
provided, exhausted enclosures and gas cabinets shall be
installed in accordance with Section 4106.2.2.
4106.4.2 Remote manual shutdown. A remotely located,
manually activated shutdown control shall be provided out-
side each gas cabinet.
4106.4.3 Emergency power. The ventilation system shall
be provided with an approved automatic emergency power
source in accordance with Section 604 and designed to
operate at full capacity.
4106.4.4 Purge panels. Automated purge panels shall be
provided.
4106.4.4.1 Purge gases. Purging of piping and controls
located in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures shall
only be performed using a dedicated inert gas supply that
is designed to prevent silane from entering the inert gas
supply. The use of nondedicated systems or portions of
piping systems is allowed on portions of the venting sys-
tem that are continuously vented to atmosphere. Devices
that could interrupt the continuous flow of purge gas to
the atmosphere shall be prohibited.
Exception: Manufacturing and filling facilities
where silane is produced or mixed.
4106.4.4.2 Venting. Gas vent headers or individual
purge panel vent lines shall have a continuous flow of
inert gas. The inert gas shall be introduced upstream of
the first vent or exhaust connection to the header.
4106.4.4.3 Purging operations. Purging operations
shall be performed by means ensuring complete purging
of the piping and control system before the system is
opened to the atmosphere.
4106.5 Outdoor use and dispensing. The outdoor use and dis-
pensing of silane gas, and gas mixtures with a silane concentra-
tion of 2 percent or more by volume, exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per control area indicated in Table
2703.1.1(3) shall be in accordance with Sections 4105, 4106.4
and 4106.5.1.
4106.5.1 Outdoor use weather protection. When over-
head construction is provided for sheltering outdoor use
areas containing silane gas, or gas mixtures with a silane
concentration of 2 percent or more by volume, the use areas
shall be provided with approved automatic fire-extinguish-
ing system protection.
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376 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
CHAPTER 42
PYROXYLIN (CELLULOSE NITRATE) PLASTICS
SECTION 4201
GENERAL
4201.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to the storage and han-
dling of plastic substances, materials or compounds with cellu-
lose nitrate as a base, by whatever name known, in the form of
blocks, sheets, tubes or fabricated shapes.
Cellulose nitrate motion picture film shall comply with the
requirements of Section 306.
4201.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 4202
DEFINITIONS
4202.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in
this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings
ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 4203
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4203.1 Displays. Cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastic articles
are allowed to be placed on tables not more than 3 feet (914
mm) wide and 10 feet (3048 mm) long. Tables shall be spaced
at least 3 feet (914 mm) apart. Where articles are displayed on
counters, they shall be arranged in a like manner.
4203.2 Space under tables. Spaces underneath tables shall be
kept free from storage of any kind and accumulation of paper,
refuse and other combustible material.
4203.3 Location. Sales or display tables shall be so located that
in the event of a fire at the table, the table will not interfere with
free means of egress from the room in at least one direction.
4203.4 Lighting. Lighting shall not be located directly above
cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastic material, unless provided
with a suitable guard to prevent heated particles from falling.
pounds (227 kg). Each compartment shall not contain more
than 250 pounds (1 14 kg).
4204.1.3 Storage of additional material. Raw material in
excess of that allowed by Section 4204. 1 .2 shall be kept in
vented vaults not exceeding 1,500-cubic-foot capacity (43
m^) of total vault space, and with approved construction,
venting and sprinkler protection.
4204.1.4 Heat sources. Cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastic
shall not be stored within 2 feet (610 mm) of heat-producing
appliances, steam pipes, radiators or chimneys.
4204.1.5 Accumulation of material. In factories manufac-
turing articles of cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastics,
approved sprinklered and vented cabinets, vaults or storage
rooms shall be provided to prevent the accumulation in
workrooms of raw stock in process or finished articles.
4204.1.6 Operators. In workrooms of cellulose nitrate
(pyroxylin) plastic factories, operators shall not be stationed
closer together than 3 feet (914 mm), and the amount of
material per operator shall not exceed one-shift's supply and
shall be limited to the capacity of three tote boxes, including
material awaiting removal or use.
4204.1.7 Waste material. Waste cellulose nitrate
(pyroxylin) plastic materials such as shavings, chips, turn-
ings, sawdust, edgings and trimmings shall be kept under
water in metal receptacles until removed from the premises.
4204.2 Fire protection. The manufacture or storage of articles
of cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastic in quantities exceeding
100 pounds (45 kg) shall be located in a building or portion
thereof equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
4204.3 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall not be
located in rooms in which cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastic
in excess of 25 pounds (11 kg) is handled or stored.
4204.4 Heating. Rooms in which cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin)
plastic is handled or stored shall be heated by low-pressure
steam or hot water radiators.
SECTION 4204
STORAGE AND HANDLING
4204.1 Raw material. Raw cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plas-
tic material in a Group F building shall be stored and handled in
accordance with Sections 4204.1.1 through 4204.1.7.
4204.1.1 Storage of incoming material. Where raw mate-
rial in excess of 25 pounds (11 kg) is received in a building
or fire area, an approved vented cabinet or approved vented
vault equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler sys-
tem shall be provided for the storage of material.
4204.1.2 Capacity limitations. Cabinets in any one work-
room shall not contain more than 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of
raw material. Each cabinet shall not contain more than 500
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
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378 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
CHAPTER 43
UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIALS
SECTION 4301
GENERAL
4301.1 Scope. The storage and use of unstable (reactive) mate-
rials shall be in accordance with this chapter. Compressed
gases shall also comply with Chapter 30.
Exceptions:
1 . Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group
S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11.
2. Detonable unstable (reactive) materials shall be
stored in accordance with Chapter 33.
4301.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 4302
DEFINITIONS
4302.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIAL. A material, other
than an explosive, which in the pure state or as commercially
produced, will vigorously polymerize, decompose, condense
or become self-reactive and undergo other violent chemical
changes, including explosion, when exposed to heat, friction or
shock, or in the absence of an inhibitor, or in the presence of
contaminants, or in contact with incompatible materials.
Unstable (reactive) materials are subdivided as follows:
Class 4. Materials that in themselves are readily capable of
detonation or explosive decomposition or explosive reac-
tion at normal temperatures and pressures. This class
includes materials that are sensitive to mechanical or local-
ized thermal shock at normal temperatures and pressures.
Class 3. Materials that in themselves are capable of detona-
tion or of explosive decomposition or explosive reaction but
which require a strong initiating source or which must be
heated under confinement before initiation. This class
includes materials that are sensitive to thermal or mechani-
cal shock at elevated temperatures and pressures.
Class 2. Materials that in themselves are normally unstable
and readily undergo violent chemical change but do not det-
onate. This class includes materials that can undergo chemi-
cal change with rapid release of energy at normal
temperatures and pressures, and that can undergo violent
chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures.
Class 1. Materials that in themselves are normally stable but
which can become unstable at elevated temperatures and
pressure.
SECTION 4303
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4303.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. Quantities of unstable (reactive)
materials not exceeding the maximuiti allowable quantity per
control area shall be in accordance with Sections 4303.1.1
through 4303.1.2.5.
4303.1.1 General. The storage and use of unstable (reac-
tive) materials in amounts not exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per control area indicated in Section
2703.1 shall be in accordance with Sections 2701, 2703
4301 and 4303.
4303.1.2 Limitations for indoor storage and use by occu-
pancy. The indoor storage of unstable (reactive) materials
shall be in accordance with Sections 4303.1.2.1 through
4303.1.2.5.
4303.1.2.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. In Group
A, E, I or U occupancies, any amount of Class 3 and 4
unstable (reactive) materials shall be stored in accor-
dance with the following:
1 . Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials shall be
stored in hazardous material storage cabinets com-
plying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. The hazardous material storage cabinets shall not
contain other storage.
4303.1.2.2 Group R occupancies. Class 3 and 4 unsta-
ble (reactive) materials shall not be stored or used within
Group R occupancies.
4303.1.2.3 Group M occupancies. Class 4 unstable
(reactive) materials shall not be stored or used in retail
sales portions of Group M occupancies.
4303.1.2.4 Offices. Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive)
materials shall not be stored or used in offices of Group
B, F, M or S occupancies.
4303.1.2.5 Classrooms. In classrooms in Group B, F or
M occupancies, any amount of Class 3 and 4 unstable
(reactive) materials shall be stored in accordance with
the following:
1 . Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials shall be
stored in hazardous material storage cabinets com-
plying with Section 2703.8.7.
2. The hazardous material storage cabinets shall not
contain other storage.
4303.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of unstable (reac-
tive) materials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall be in
accordance with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
379
UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIALS
SECTION 4304
STORAGE
4304.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of unstable (reactive)
materials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1) shall be in
accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chapter.
In addition, Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) detonable
materials shall be stored in accordance with the International
Building Code requirements for explosives.
4304.1.1 Detached storage. Storage of unstable (reactive)
materials shall be in detached buildings when required in
Section 2703.8.2.
4304.1.2 Explosion control. Indoor storage rooms, areas
and buildings containing Class 3 or 4 unstable (reactive)
materials shall be provided with explosion control in accor-
dance with Section 911.
4304.1.3 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to Section
2704.12, floors of storage areas for liquids and solids shall
be of liquid-tight construction.
4304.1.4 Storage configuration. Unstable (reactive) mate-
rials stored in quantities greater than 500 cubic feet (14 m^)
shall be separated into piles, each not larger than 500 cubic
feet (14 m^). Aisle width shall not be less than the height of
the piles or 4 feet (1219 mm), whichever is greater.
Exception: Materials stored in tanks.
4304.1.5 Location in building. Unstable (reactive) materi-
als shall not be stored in basements.
4304.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of unstable (reac-
tive) materials in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable
quantities per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3) shall
be in accordance with Sections 2701 , 2703, 2704 and this chap-
ter.
4304.2.1 Distance from storage to exposures Class 4 and
3 (detonable) materials. Outdoor storage of Class 4 or 3
(detonable) unstable (reactive) material shall be in accor-
dance with Table 3304.5.2(2). The number of pounds of
material listed in the table shall be the net weight of the
material present. Alternatively, the number of pounds of
material shall be based on a trinitrotoluene (TNT) equiva-
lent weight.
4304.2.2 Distance from storage to exposures Class 3
(deflagratable) materials. Outdoor storage of
deflagratable Class 3 unstable (reactive) materials shall be
in accordance with Table 3304.5.2(3). The number of
pounds of material listed shall be the net weight of the mate-
rial present.
4304.2.3 Distance from storage to exposures Class 2 and
1 materials. Outdoor storage of Class 2 or 1 unstable (reac-
tive) materials shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm)
of buildings not associated with the manufacture or distribu-
tion of such materials, lot lines, public streets, public alleys,
public ways or means of egress. The minimum required dis-
tance shall not apply when fire barriers without openings or
penetrations having a minimum fire-resistance rating of 2
hours interrupt the line of sight between the storage and the
exposure. The fire barrier shall either be an independent
structure or the exterior wall of the building adjacent to the
storage area.
4304.2.4 Storage configuration. Piles of unstable (reac-
tive) materials shall not exceed 1,000 cubic feet (28 m^).
4304.2.5 Aisle widths. Aisle widths between piles shall not
be less than one-half the height of the pile or 10 feet (3048
mm), whichever is greater.
SECTION 4305
USE
4305.1 General. The use of unstable (reactive) materials in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) or 2703 .1.1(3) shall be
in accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
380
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
CHAPTER 44
WATER-REACTIVE SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS
SECTION 4401
GENERAL
4401.1 Scope. The storage and use of water-reactive solids and
liquids shall be in accordance with this chapter.
Exceptions:
1 . Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group
S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11.
2. Detonable water-reactive solids and liquids shall be
stored in accordance with Chapter 33.
4401.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-
tion 105.6.
SECTION 4402
DEFINITIONS
4402.1 Definition. The following word and term shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meaning shown herein.
WATER-REACTIVE MATERIAL. A material that
explodes; violently reacts; produces flammable, toxic or other
hazardous gases; or evolves enough heat to cause autoignition
or ignition of combustibles upon exposure to water or mois-
ture. Water-reactive materials are subdivided as follows:
Class 3. Materials that react explosively with water without
requiring heat or confinement.
Class 2. Materials that react violently with water or have the
ability to boil water. Materials that produce flanmiable,
toxic or other hazardous gases, or evolve enough heat to
cause autoignition or ignition of combustibles upon expo-
sure to water or moisture.
Class 1. Materials that react with water with some release of
energy, but not violently.
SECTION 4403
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4403.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area. The storage and use of water-reac-
tive solids and liquids in amounts not exceeding the maximum
allowable quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1
shall be in accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 4401 and
4403.
4403.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quan-
tity per control area. The storage and use of water-reactive
solids and liquids in amounts exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area indicated in Section 2703. 1 shall
be in accordance with Chapter 27 and this chapter.
SECTION 4404
STORAGE
4404.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of water-reactive solids
and liquids in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable
quantity per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(1), shall
be in accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this chap-
ter.
4404.1.1 Detached storage. Storage of water-reactive sol-
ids and liquids shall be in detached buildings when required
by Section 2703.8.2.
4404.1.2 Liquid-tight floor. In addition to the provisions of
Section 2704.12, floors in storage areas for water-reactive
solids and liquids shall be of liquid-tight construction.
4404.1.3 Waterproof room. Rooms or areas used for the
storage of water-reactive solids and liquids shall be con-
structed in a manner which resists the penetration of water
through the use of waterproof materials. Piping carrying
water for other than approved automatic sprinkler systems
shall not be within such rooms or areas.
4404.1.4 Water-tight containers. When Class 3
water-reactive solids and liquids are stored in areas
equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, the materials
shall be stored in closed water-tight containers.
4404.1.5 Storage configuration. Water-reactive solids and
liquids stored in quantities greater than 500 cubic feet (14
m^) shall be separated into piles, each not larger than 500
cubic feet (14 m^). Aisle widths between piles shall not be
less than the height of the pile or 4 feet (1219 mm), which-
ever is greater.
Exception: Water-reactive solids and liquids stored in
tanks.
Class 2 water-reactive solids and liquids shall not be
stored in basements unless such materials are stored in
closed water-tight containers or tanks.
Class 3 water-reactive solids and liquids shall not be
stored in basements.
Class 2 or 3 water-reactive solids and liquids shall not be
stored with flammable liquids.
4404.1.6 Explosion control. Indoor storage rooms, areas
and buildings containing Class 2 or 3 water-reactive solids
and liquids shall be provided with explosion control in
accordance with Section 911.
4404.2 Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage of water-reactive
solids and liquids in quantities exceeding the maximum allow-
able quantity per control area indicated in Table 2703.1.1(3)
shall be in accordance with Sections 2701, 2703, 2704 and this
chapter.
4404.2.1 General. Outdoor storage of water-reactive solids
and liquids shall be within tanks or closed water-tight con-
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
381
WATER-REACTIVE SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS
tainers and shall be in accordance with Sections 4404.2.2
through 4404.2.5.
4404.2.2 Class 3 distance to exposures. Outdoor storage of
Class 3 water-reactive solids and liquids shall not be within
75 feet (22 860 mm) of buildings, lot lines, public streets,
public alleys, public ways or means of egress.
4404.2.3 Class 2 distance to exposures. Outdoor storage of
Class 2 water-reactive solids and liquids shall not be within
20 feet (6096 mm) of buildings, lot lines, public streets, pub-
lic alleys, public ways or means of egress. A 2-hour fire bar-
rier wall without openings or penetrations, and extending
not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above and to the sides of
the storage area, is allowed in lieu of such distance. The wall
shall either be an independent structure, or the exterior wall
of the building adjacent to the storage area.
4404.2.4 Storage conditions. Class 3 water-reactive solids
and liquids shall be limited to piles not greater than 500
cubic feet (14 m^).
Class 2 water-reactive solids and liquids shall be limited
to piles not greater than 1,000 cubic feet (28 m^).
Aisle widths between piles shall not be less than one-half
the height of the pile or 10 feet (3048 mm), whichever is
greater.
4404.2.5 Containment. Secondary containment shall be
provided in accordance with the provisions of Section
2704.2.2.
SECTION 4405
USE
4405.1 General. The use of water-reactive solids and liquids in
amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area indicated in Table 2703 . 1 . 1 ( 1 ) or 2703 .1.1(3) shall be
in accordance with Sections 2701 , 2703, 2705 and this chapter.
382
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
CHAPTER 45
REFERENCED STANDARDS
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the
promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this
document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section 102.6.
AASHTO
American Association of State Highway
and Transportation Officials
444 North Capitol Street, Northwest, #249
Washington, DC 20001
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
HB- 17— 2002
Specification for Highway Bridges, 17th Edition 2002 503.2.6
AFSI
Architectural Fabric Structures Institute
c/o Industrial Fabric Association International
1801 County Road B West
Roseville,MN 55113
Standard
reference
number
ASI— 77
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
Design and Standard Manual 2403.10.2
API
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Spec 12P— (1995)
(Reaffirmed 2000)
RP 651— (1997)
Std 653— (2001)
RP 752— (2003)
RP 1604— (1996)
RP 1615— (1996)
Std 2000— (1998)
RP 2001— (2005)
RP 2003— (1998)
Publ 2009— (2002)
Std 2015— (2001)
RP 2023— (2001)
Publ 2028— (2002)
Publ 2201— (2003)
RP 2350— (2005)
American Petroleum Institute
1220 L Street, Northwest
Washington, DC 20005
Title
Specification for Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Tanks 3404.2.13.1.5
Cathodic Protection of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tanks 3406.7, 3406.7.1
Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration and Reconstruction 3406.7
Management of Hazards Associated with Location of Process Plant Buildings, CMA Managers Guide 3406.7
Closure of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks 3404.2.13
Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage Systems 3404.2.13.1.5, 3406.7
Venting Atmosphere and Low Pressure Storage Tanks: Nonrefrigerated and Refrigerated 3404.2.7.3.6
Fire Protection in Refineries, 8"^ Edition 3406.7
Protection Against Ignitions Arising out of Static, Lightening, and Stray Currents 3406.7
Safe Welding and Cutting Practices in Refineries, Gas Plantsand Petrochemical Plants 3406.7
Safe Entry and Clearing of Petroleum Storage Tanks 3406.7, 3406.7.2
Guide for Safe Storage and Handling of Heated Petroleum-Derived Asphalt Products and
Crude-oil Residue 3406.7, 3406.7.3
Flame Arrestors in Piping Systems 3404.2.7.3.2
Procedures for Welding or Hot Tapping on Equipment in Service 3406.7
Overfill Protection for Storage Tanks in Petroleum Facilities, 3rd Edition 3404.2.7.5.8, 3406.4.6, 3406.7
ASME
A13.1— 96
A17.1— 2004
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Three Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5990
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Tide
section number
Scheme for the Identification of Piping Systems 2609.3, 2703.2.2.1, 3003.4.2, 3203.4.5, 3403.5.2
Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators— with A17.1a-2004 Addenda and A17.1S Supplement 607.1, 1007.4
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^
383
REFERENCED STANDARDS
A17.3— 2002
A18. 1—2003
B 16. 18—2001
B 16.22— 2001
B3 1.3— 2002
B31.9— 96
BPVC-2001
ASME — continued
Safety Code for Existing Elevators and Escalators — with A17.3a-2000 Addenda 607.1
Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chair Lifts 604.2.6
Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings 909.13.1
Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder-joint Pressure Fittings — with B16.22a-1998 Addenda 909.13.1
Process Piping 2209.5.4.3.1, 2703.2.2.2
Building Services Piping Code for Pressure Piping 3403.6.2.1, 3403.6.3, 3403.6.11
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, 2001 Edition of
(Sections 1, 11, IV, V & VI, VIII) 2209.5.4.2, 3003.2, 3003.3.2, 3203.4.3, 3203.8, 3204.4.1, 3204.5, 3404.2.13.1.5
ASTM
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
B 42— 02e01
B 43—04
B68— 02
B88— 03
B 251— 02e01
B 280—03
D 56— 02a
D 86— 04b
D 92— 02b
D 93— 02a
D 323— 99a
D 3278— 96e01
E84— 04
E 681—04
E 1354— 04a
E 1529—00
E 1537— 02a
E 1590—02
ASTM International
100 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
Ri
sectio
Specification for Seamless Copper Pipe, Standard Sizes 909.13.1
Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe, Standard Sizes 909.13.1
Specification for Seamless Copper Tube, Bright Annealed 909.13.1
Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube 909.13.1
Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Seamless Copper and Copper-alloy Tube 909.13.1
Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Field Service 909.13.1
Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Tester 3402.1
Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure 2702.1
Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup 3401.2, 3402.1
Test Method for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Up Tester 3402.1
Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method) 2702. 1
Test Methods for Flash Point of Liquids by Small Scale Closed-cup Apparatus 3402. 1
Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials 803.1, 803.1.1, 803.1.2, 803.5.1,
803.7.3, 804.1, 804.2.4,
Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases) 3502.1
Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for
Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter 808. 1
Test Method for Determining Effects of Large Hydrocarbon Pool Fires on
Structural Members and Assemblies 3404.2.9.1.3
Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture 805. 1 . 1 .2, 805.2. 1 .2, 805.3. 1 .2
Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses 805.1.2.2, 805.2.2.2, 805.3.2.2
BHMA
Builders Hardware Manufacturers' Association
355 Lexington Avenue, 17th Floor
New York, NY 10017-6603
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
A156.10— 99
A156.19— 02
American National Standard for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors
American National Standard for Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Doors
,1008.1.3.2
1008.1.3.2
CA
California
Technical
Bulletin 129-1992
State of California
Department of Consumer Affairs
Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation
3485 Orange Grove Avenue
North Highlands, CA 95660-5595
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
FlammabiUty Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use In Public Buildings 805.1.1.2, 805.2.2.2, 805.3.2.2
384
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
REFERENCED STANDARDS
California
Technical
Bulletin 133—1991
CA — continued
Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for
Use in Public Occupancies
.805.1.1.2,805.2.1.2
CGA
C-7— (2000)
P-1— (2000)
P- 18— (1992)
S- 1.1— (2002)
S-1.2— (1995)
S-1.3— (1995)
V-1— (2002)
Compressed Gas Association
1725 Jefferson Davis Highway
5"" Floor
Arlington, VA 22202-4102
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Guide to the Preparation of Precautionary Labeling and Marking of Compressed Gas Containers 3003.4.2, 3203.4.2
Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers 3005.7
Standard for Bulk Inert Gas Systems at Consumer Sites 3201.1
Relief Device Standards— Part 1— Cylinders for Compressed Gases 2209.5.4.2, 3003.3.2, 3203.2
Pressure Relief Device Standards— Part 2— Cargo and Portable Tanks for Compressed Gases . . . 2209.5.4.2, 3003.3.2, 3203.2
Pressure Relief Device Standards — Part 3 — Stationary Storage Containers for
Compressed Gases 2209.5.4.2, 2209.5.4.3.5, 3003.3.2, 3203.2
Gas Cylinder Valve Outlet and Inlet Connections 4106.1.3
CGR
Coast Guard Regulations
c/o Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402-9325
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
46CFR
Parts 30, 32,
35 & 39—1999
Shipping 3406.8
CPSC
16 CFR Part
1500.41—1984
16 CFR Part
1500.42—1984
16 CFR Part
1500.44—2001
16 CFR Part
1500—1984
16 CFR Part
1507—2001
Consumer Product Safety Commission
4330 East West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Method for Testing Primary Irritant Substances 202
Test for Eye Irritants 202
Method for Testing Extremely Flammable and Flammable Solids 3602. 1
Hazardous Substances and Articles; Administration and Enforcement R^ulations 3301.1.3, 3302.1
Fireworks Devices 3301.1.3, 3302.1
DOC
U.S. Department of Commerce
100 Bureau Drive, Stop 3460
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
16 CFR Part
1632—1999
Standard for the FlaramabiUty of Mattress and Mattress Pads (FF 4 — 72, Amended) 805.1.2.1, 805.2.2.1, 805.3.2.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
385
REFERENCED STANDARDS
DOL
29 CFR Part
1910.1000—1974
29 CFR Part
1910.1200—1999
U.S. Department of Labor
c/o Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402-9325
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Air Contaminants
Hazard Communication
.1204.2.1,2702.1
..2702.1,3303.6
DOTn
33 CFR Part
154—1998
33 CFR Part
155—1998
33 CFR Part
156—1998
49 CFR— 1998
49 CFR Part
1—1999
49 CFR Part
172—1999
49 CFR Part
173—1999
49 CFR Part
173.137—1990
49 CFR Parts
100-178—1994
U.S. Department of Transportation
Office of Hazardous Material Standards
400 T Street, Southwest
Washington, DC 20590
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Facilities Transferring Oil or Hazardous Material in Bulk 3406.8
Oil or Hazardous Material Pollution Prevention Regulations for Vessels 3406.8
Oil and Hazardous Material Transfer Operations 3406.8
Transportation 2605.4, 3302.1
Transportation 3203.4.3, 3203.8
Hazardous Materials Tables, Special Provisions, Hazardous Materials Communications,
Emergency Response Information and Training Requirements 3304.6.5.2
Shippers — General Requirements for Shipments and Packagings 3306.3
Shippers — General Requirements for Shipments and Packagings: Class 8 — Assignment of Packing Group 3102.1
Hazardous Materials Regulations 3003.2, 3301.1, 3301.1.3, 3301.3, 3406.5.1.15
Doiy
U.S. Department of Treasury
c/o Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402-9325
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
27 CFR Part
55—1998
Commerce in Explosives, as amended through April 1, 1998 3302.1, 3304.6.5.2
ICC
ICC/ANSI Al 17.1— 03
ICC 300—02
ICC EC— 06
International Code Council, Inc.
5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 600
Falls Church, VA 22041
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities 907.10.1.4, 1007.6.5, 1010.1, 1010.6.5, 1010.9, 1011.3
Standard on Bleachers, Folding and Telescopic Seating and Grandstands 1025.1.1
ICC Electrical Code® 603.1.3,603.1.7,603.5.2,604.2.16.1,604.2.16.2,605.1,605.3,
605.4, 605.9, 606.16, 904.3.1, 907.6, 909.11, 909.12.1, 909.16.3, 1106.3.4,
1204.2.3, Table 1304.1, 1404.7, 1503.2.1, 1503.2.1.1,1503.2.1.4,
1503.2.5, 1504.6.1.2,2, 1504.9.4, 1604.5, 1703.2.1, 1803.7.1, 1803.7.2, 1803.7.3,
1903.4, 2004.1, 2201.5, 2205.4, 2208.8.1.2.4, 2209.2.3, 2211.3.1,2211.8.1.2.4, 2403.12.6.1,
2404.15.7, 2606.4, 2703.7.3, 2703.8.7.1, 2703.9.4, 2704.7, 2705.1.5,3003.7.6, 3003.8,
3003.16.11, 3003.16.14, 3203.7, 3203.7.2, 3403.1,Table 3403.1.1, 3403.1.3,
3404.2.8.12, 3404.2.8.17, 3406.2.8,3503.1.5, 3503.1.5.1, 3606.5.5, 3606.5.6, 3704.2.2.8
386
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
REFERENCED STANDARDS
IBC— 06
IFGC— 06
IMC— 06
IPC— 06
IPMC— 06
IRC— 06
IWUIC— 06
ICC — continued
International Building Code® 102.3, 102.4, 201.3, 202, 304.1.3,306.1, 311.1.1, 311.3, 313.1, 313.2,408.7.2,
504.1, 509.1, 603.2, 603.3.2, 603.5.2, 603.6.1, 603.8,604.1, 604.2.9, 604.2.15.1.3,
604.2.16, 604.2.16.1.1, 604.2.17, 608.4, 608.8, 701.1, 803.1, Table 803.3, 803.7.1, 803.7.2,
805.3.1.2, 807.1.2, 807.4.2.2, 901.4.1, 901.4.2, 903.2.4.2, 903.2.8.1, 903.2.9,
903.3.2, 903.3.5.2, 903.6, 907.2.6.2,907.2.7, 907.2.12, 907.2.18, 907.2.21, 907.15,
909.1, 909.2, 909.3, 909.4.3, 909.5, 909.5.2, 909.5.2.1, 909.10.5, 911.2,914.1, 914.2.1, 914.3.1, 914.5.3, 914.10, 1003.2,
1003.3.4, 1003.5, 1006.3, 1007.2, 1007.4, 1007.5, 1007.6.2,1007.8, 1008.1.3.3, 1008.1.6, 1008.1.8.1, 1008.1.8.7, 1009.10,
1009.11.1, 1010.1, 1011.4, 1011.5.3, 1012.1, 1013.1, 1014.4.1, Table 1016.1, 1017.1, Table 1017.1, Table 1019.2, 1020.1,
1020.1.1, 1020.1.2, 1020.1.3, 1020.1.4, 1020.1.7, 1021.3, 1021.4, 1021.5, 1022.2, 1022.3,1024.3, 1026.1, 1027.5, 1027.17,
1027.17.1,Table 1027.17.2, 1104.6, 1106.17, 1107.1, 1107.4, 1203.3, 1207.1, 1414.1, 1502.1, 1504.2, 1504.3.1, 1504.3.2.6,
1504.3.3, 1505.2, 1801.1, 1801.4, 1803.2.2, 1803.3.1, 1803.3.2, 1803.3.3, 1803.3.4, 1803.3.8, 1803.14, 1803.14.1, 1803.15.1,
1804.3.1 1805.2.2.1, 1805.2.3.2, 1805.3.1, 1805.3.2, 1805.3.3, 1903.1, 2005.1, 2009.2, 2009.4, 2009.6, 2201.1, 2201.4,
2203.1, 2207.4, 2208.3, 2208.3.1, Table 2209.3.1, 2209.3.2.3, 2209.3.2.6.1, 2209.3.3, 2210.1, 2211.1, 2211.3.1, 2211.4.1,
2211.8.1.2.3, 2301.3, Table 2306.2, 2306.3.1, 2306.3.2.1, 2306.3.2.2, 2306.8, 2307.2,2308.2, 2402.1, 2403.8.2, 2404.1,
2503.1, 2703.2.2.2, 2703.2.8, 2703.8.1, Table 2703.8.2, 2703.8.3.1, 2703.8.4.1, 2703.9.9, 2704.13, 2705.2, 2705.3.9, 2801.1,
2904.3, 2904.4, 2904.5, 3003.16.1, 3003.16.2, 3203.1.2, 3203.5.2,3204.2, 3204.2.2.2, 3204.4.3, 3205.4.1, 3304.2,
Table 3304.5.2.3, 3305.5, 3401.3, 3404.2.7.7, 3404.2.8.1, 3404.2.8.2, 3404.2.9.2, 3404.2.9.3, 3404.3.3.5, 3404.3.7.1, 3404.3.8,
3405.3.4, 3405.3.5.3, 3405.3.7.1, 3405.3.7.2, 3405.3.7.3, 3405.3.7.4, 3405.3.7.5.1, 3406.2.3, 3406.4.1,3606.2.2, 3606.2.3,
3606.4.2, 3703.1.4.2, 3705.3.1, 3809.11.2, 3904.1.2, 4004.1.2, 4104.1.4, 4106.1.1, 4304.1
International Fuel Gas Code® 201.3, 603.1, 603.1.2, 603.5.2, 603.8, 1403.1, 1403.3, 1604.5,
2101.1, 2103.1, 2104.1, 2104.2, 2201.1, 2201.6,2209.3.2.3, 2209.3.2.6, 2404.15.1, 2404.15.2,
2404.16.1, Table 2703.1.1(1), 3001.1, 3501.1, 3503.1.4, 3803.1, 3803.2.1.7, 3803.3
International Mechanical Code® 201.3, 202, 308.3.7, 603.1, 603.1.2, 603.2, 603.3, 603.5.2, 603.8,606.1,
606.2, 606.3, 606.4, 606.7, 606.8, 606.16,608.6.1, 609.1, 903.2.12.1, 904.11, 909.1, 909.10.2,
1015.5, 1017.4.1, 1204.2.1, 1205.3, 1403.1,1504.7, 1504.7.2, 1604.5, 1803.2.2, 1803.10.4, 1803.14,
1903.2, 1903.3, 2101.1, 2103.1, 2104.2, 2201.1, 2201.6,2209.3.2.3, 2211.3.1, 2211.4.3,
2211.7.1, 2404.15.1, Table 2703.1.1(1), 2404.15.2, 2703.8.4.2, 2703.8.5.2, 2703.8.6.2, 2704.3.1, 2903.5,3003.7.6,
3003.16.9, 3005.5, 3006.2.2, 3204.2.1.3, 3204.2.2.3, 3205.4.1.1, 3401.3, 3403.6.1, 3404.2.8.9, 3405.3.7.5.1,
3406.2, 3406.4.4, 3703.1.3, 3703.2.3.2, 3704.2.2.7, 3705.3.1, 3705.3.2, 3803.2.1.7
International Plumbing Code® 201.3, 903.3.5, 912.5, 2211.2.3,2704.2.2.6
International Property Maintenance Code® 311.1.1
International Residential Code® 202, 1001.1
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code™ 304.1.2
ISO
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
ISO Central Secretariat
1, rue de Varembee, Case postale 56
CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ISO 8115—86
Cotton Bales— Dimensions and Density Table 1804.2.1, Table 2703.1(1)
NEMA
National Electrical Manufacturer's Association
1300 N. 17th Street
Suite 1847
Rosslyn, VA 22209
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
250—2003
Enclosures for Electrical Equipment (1,000 Volt Maximum) 3705.2
NFPA
10—02
11—02
11 A— 99
12-00
12A— 04
National Fire Protection Association
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
Title
Portable Fire Extinguishers Table 901.6.1, 906.2, 906.3, Table 906.3(1), Table 906.3(2), 2106.3
Low-, Medium-, High-expansion Foam 904.7, 3404.2.9.1.2
Medium- and High-expansion Foam Systems 904.7, 3404.2.9.1.2
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.8, 904.1 1
Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.9
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'
.®
387
REFERENCED STANDARDS
13—02
13D— 02
13R— 02
14—03
15—01
16—03
17—02
17A— 02
20—03
22—03
24—02
25—02
30—03
30A— 03
30B— 02
31—01
32—00
33—03
34—03
35—99
40—01
51—02
51 A— 01
52—02
55-05
57—02
58—04
59A— 01
61—02
69—02
72—02
80—99
85—04
86—03
92B— 05
99—02
101—03
110—02
111—01
120—99
160—01
211—03
230—03
241—00
260—03
NFPA — continued
Installation of Sprinkler Systems Table 704.1, 903.3.1.1, 903.3.2, 903.3.5.1.1, 903.3.5.2, 904.11,905.3.4, 907.9,
2301.1, 2304.2, Table 2306.2, 2306.9, 2307.2, 2307.2.1, 2308.2.2, 2308.2.2.1,
2310.1, 2501.1, 2804.1, 2806.5.7, 3404.3.3.9, Table 3404.3.6.3(7), 3404.3.7.5.1, 3404.3.8.4
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-family Dwellings and
Manufactured Homes 903.3.1.3, 903.3.5.1.1
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to and
Including Four Stories in Height 903.3.1.2, 903.3.5.1.1, 903.3.5.1.2, 903.4
Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems 905.2, 905.3.4, 905.4.2, 905.8
Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection 3404.2.9.1.3
Installation of Foam- water Sprinkler and Foam- water Spray Systems 904.7, 904.1 1
Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.6, 904.1 1
Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.5, 904.1 1
Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection 913.1, 913.2, 913.5.1
Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection 508.2.2
Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and their Appurtenances 508.2.1, 1909.5
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-based Fire Protection Systems 508.5.3, Table 901.6.1,
904.7.1,912.6,913.5,
Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code 3403.6.2, 3403.6.2.1, 3404.2.7, 3404.2.7.1,
3404.2.7.2, 3404.2.7.3.6, 3404.2.7.4, 3404.2.7.6, 3404.2.7.7, 3404.2.7.8,
3404.2.7.9, 3404.2.9.2, 3404.2.9.3, 3404.2.9.5.1.1, 3404.2.9.5.1.2, 3404.2.9.5.1.3,
3404.2.9.5.1.4, 3404.2.9.5.1.5, 3404.2.9.5.2, 3404.2.9.6.4, 3404.2.10.2, 3404.2.11.4,
3404.2.11.5.2, 3404.2.12.1, 3404.3.1, 3404.3.6, 3404.3.7.2.3,3404.3.7.5.1, 3404.3.8.4, 3406.8.3
Code for Motor Fuel-dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages 2201.4, 2201.5, 2201.6, 2206.6.3, 2210.1
Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products 2801.1, 2803.1, 2804.1, Table 2804.3.1, Table 2804.3.2,
Table 2804.3.2.2, 2804.4.1, 2804.5.2, 2804.6, Table 2806.2,
2806.2.3, 2806.3.2, Table 2806.4, 2806.5.1, 2806.5.6, 2807.1
Installation of Oil-burning Equipment 603.1.7, 603.3.1, 603.3.3
Dry Cleaning Plants 1207.1, 1207.3
Spray Application Using Flammable or Comhistible Materials 1504.3.2
Dipping and Coating Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Liquids 1505.3, 1505.4.1.1
Manufacture of Organic Coatings 2001.3, 2005.4
Storage and Handling of Cellulose Nitrate Film 306.2
Design and Installation of Oxygen-fuel Gas Systems for Welding, Cutting and
Allied Processes 2601.5, 2607.1, 2609.1
Acetylene CyUnder Charging Plants 2608.1
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicular Fuel System Code 3001.1
Standard for the Storage, Use and HandUng of Compressed Gases and
Cryogenic Fluids in Portable and Stationery Containers Cylinders and Tanks 2209.2.1, 3201.1, 3501.1, 4001.1
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Vehicular Fuel System Code 3001.1
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code 3801.1,3803.1,3803.2.1,3803.2.1.2,3803.2.1.7,3803.2.2,
3804.1, 3804.3.1, 3804.4, 3806.2, 3806.3, 3807.2, 3808.1, 3808.2, 3809.11.2, 3811.3
Production, Storage and Handhng of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) 3001.1, 3201.1
Prevention of Fires and Dust Explosions in Agricultural and Food Products Facilities Table 1304.1
Explosion Prevention Systems 911.1, 911.3, Table 1304.1
National Fire Alarm Code 509.1, Table 901.6.1, 903.4.1, 904.3.5, 907.2,
907.2.1.1, 907.2.10, 907.2.10.4, 907.2.11.2, 907.2.11.3, 907.2.12.2.3, 907.2.12.3,
907.3, 907.5, 907.6, 907.10.2, 907.11, 907.15, 907.17, 907.18, 907.20, 907.20.2, 907.20.5
Fire Doors and Fire Windows 703.2, 1008.1.3.3
Boiler and Combustion System Hazards Code Table 1304.1
Ovens and Furnaces 2101.1
Smoke Management Systems in Malls, Atria and Large Spaces 909.8
Health Care Facilities 3006.4
Life Safety Code 1025.6.2
Emergency and Standby Power Systems 604.1, 604.3, 604.4, 913.5.2, 913.5.3
Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems 604.1, 604.3, 604.4
Coal Preparation Plants Table 1304.1
Flame Effects Before an Audience 308.3.6
Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel-Burning Apphances 603.2
Fire Protection of Storage 2301.1, 2308.4, 2310.1, 2501.1, 3404.3.3.9
Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations 1401.1
Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of
Components of Upholstered Furniture 805.1.1.1, 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1
388
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
REFERENCED STANDARDS
261—03
265-^2
286—00
303-00
385-00
407—01
409—01
430—00
484—02
490—02
495—01
498—01
505—02
654—00
655—01
664—02
701—99
703—00
704—01
750—03
1122—02
1123-00
1124—03
1125—01
1126—01
1127—02
2001—04
NFPA — continued
Method of Test for Determining Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture
Material Assemblies to Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1
Method of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of
Textile Wall Coverings in Full Height Panels and Walls 803.5.1, 803.5.1.1, 803.5.1.2
Standard Method of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and
Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth 803.1, 803.1.2, 803.1.2.1, 803.5.1
Fire Protection Standard for Marinas and Boatyards 905.3.7
Tank Vehicles for Flammable and Combustible Liquids 3406.5.4.5, 3406.6, 3406.6.1
Aircraft Fuel Servicing 1106.2, 1106.3
Aircraft Hangars 914.8.2, 914.8.5
Storage of Liquid and Solid Oxidizers 4004.1.4
Combustible Metals, Metal Powders, and Metal Dusts Table 1304.1
Storage of Ammonium Nitrate 3301.1.5
Explosive Materials Code 911.1, 911.4,3301.1.1, 3301.1.5, 3302.1, 3304.2,3304.6.2, 3304.6.3,
3304.7.1, 3305.1, 3306.1,3306.5.2.1, 3306.5.2.3, 3307.1, 3307.9, 3307.11, 3307.15
Safe Havens and Interchange Lots for Vehicles Transporting Explosives 3301.1.2
Powered Industrial Trucks, Including Type Designations, Areas of Use,
Maintenance, and Operation 2703.7.3
Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufecturing,
Processing and Handhng of Combustible Particulate Solids Table 1304.1
Prevention of Sulfur Fires and Explosions Table 1304.1
Prevention of Fires and Explosions in Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities Table 1304.1, 1905.3
Methods of Fire Tests for Flame-propagation of Textiles and Films 806.2, 807.1, 807.1.2,
807.2, 807.4.2.2, 1703.5
Fire Retardant Impregnated Wood and Fire Retardant Coatings for Building Materials 803.4
Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response 606.7, 1802.1,
2404.2, 2703.2.2.1, 2703.2.2.2, 2703.5,2703.10.2,
2705.1.10, 2705.2.1.1, 2705.4.4, 3203.4.1, 3404.2.3.2
Water Mist Fire Protection Systems Table 901.6.1
Model Rocketry 3301.1.4
Fireworks Display 3302.1, 3304.2, 3308.1, 3308.2.2, 3308.5, 3308.6
Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and Retail Sales of Fireworks and
Pyrotechnic Articles 3302.1, 3304.2, 3305.1, 3305.3, 3305.4, 3305.5
Manufacture of Model Rocket and High Power Rocket Motors 3301.1.4
Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience 3304.2, 3305.1, 3308.1, 3308.2.2, 3308.4, 3308.5
High Power Rocketry 3301.1.4
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems Table 901.6.1, 904.10
UL
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number
Title
section number
30—04
58—96
199E-04
217-97
268—96
300—96
71 OB— 04
793—03
864—03
900—94
1275—94
1315-95
1316—94
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
333 Pfmgsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062
Title
Metal Safety Cans 2705.1.10, 3405.2.4
Steel Underground Tanks for Flanmiable and Combustible Liquids —
with Revisions through July 1998 3404.2.13.1.5
Outline of Investigation for Fire Testing of Sprinklers and Water Spray Nozzles for
Protection of Deep Fat Fryers 904. 1 1 .4. 1
Single and Multiple Station Smoke Alarms — with Revisions through January 2004 907.2.10
Control Units for Fire Protective SignaUng Systems — with Revisions through October 2003 907.2.6.2
Fire Testing of Fire Extinguishing Systems for Protection of Restaurant Cooking Areas —
with Revisions through December 1998 904.11
Recirculating Systems 904. 1 1
Standard for Automatically Operated Roof Vents for Smoke and Heat 910.3.1
Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems —
with Revisions through October 2003 909.12
Air Filter Units— with Revisions through October 1999 1504.7.8
Flammable Liquid Storage Cabinets— with Revisions through March 1997 2703.8.7.1, 3404.3.2.1.1
Standard for Safety for Metal Waste Paper Containers — with Revisions through December 2003 808.1
Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic Underground Storage Tanks for Petroleum Products,
Alcohols, and Alcohol-gasoline Mixtures — with Revisions through April 1996 3404.2.13.1.5
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
389
REFERENCED STANDARDS
1363—96
1975—96
2085—97
2200—98
2208—96
2245—99
2335—01
UL — continued
Standard for Relocatable Power Taps — with Revisions through July 2004 605.4.1
Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purpose 807.4.2.1, 808.2
Protected Aboveground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids —
with Revisions through December 1999 3402.1, 3404.2.9.1.3, 3404.2.9.6.5, 3405.3.8.2
Standard for Stationary Engine Generator Assemblies — with Revisions through July 2004 604. 1 . 1
Solvent Distillation Units — with Revisions through August 2001 3405.4.1
Below-Grade Vaults for Flammable Liquid Storage Tanks 3404.2.8.1
Fire Tests of Storage Pallets— with Revisions through May 2002 2308.2.1
use
United States Code
c/o Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402-9325
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
18 use Parti,
Chapter 40
Importation, Manufacture, Distribution and Storage of Explosive Materials 3302.1
390
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
APPENDIX A
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
BOARD OF APPEALS
SECTION A1 01
GENERAL
AlOl.l Scope. A board of appeals shall be established within
the jurisdiction for the purpose of hearing applications for
modification of the requirements of the International Fire
Code pursuant to the provisions of Section 108 of the Interna-
tional Fire Code. The board shall be established and operated
in accordance with this section, and shall be authorized to hear
evidence from appellants and the fire code official pertaining to
the application and intent of this code for the purpose of issuing
orders pursuant to these provisions.
AlOl.l Membership. The membership of the board shall con-
sist of five voting members having the qualifications estab-
lished by this section. Members shall be nominated by the fire
code official or the chief administrative officer of the jurisdic-
tion, subject to confirmation by a majority vote of the govern-
ing body. Members shall serve without remuneration or
compensation, and shall be removed from office prior to the
end of their appointed terms only for cause.
AlOl.2.1 Design professional. One member shall be a
practicing design professional registered in the practice of
engineering or architecture in the state in which the board is
established.
AlOl.2.2 Fire protection engineering professional. One
member shall be a qualified engineer, technologist, techni-
cian or safety professional trained in fire protection engi-
neering, fire science or fire technology. Qualified
representatives in this category shall include fire protection
contractors and certified technicians engaged in fire protec-
tion system design.
AlOl.2.3 Industrial safety professional. One member
shall be a registered industrial or chemical engineer, certi-
fied hygienist, certified safety professional, certified haz-
ardous materials manager or comparably qualified
specialist experienced in chemical process safety or indus-
trial safety.
AlOl.2.4 General contractor. One member shall be a con-
tractor regularly engaged in the construction, alteration,
maintenance, repair or remodeling of buildings or building
services and systems regulated by the code.
AlOl.2.5 General industry or business representative.
One member shall be a representative of business or indus-
try not represented by a member from one of the other cate-
gories of board members described above.
A101.3 Terms of office. Members shall be appointed for terms
of four years. No member shall be reappointed to serve more
than two consecutive full terms.
AlOl.3.1 Initial appointments. Of the members first
appointed, two shall be appointed for a term of 1 year, two
for a term of 2 years, one for a term of 3 years.
AlOl.3.2 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unex-
pired term in the manner in which original appointments are
required to be made. Members appointed to fill a vacancy in
an unexpired term shall be eligible for reappointment to two
full terms.
AlOl.3.3 Removal from office. Members shall be removed
from office prior to the end of their terms only for cause.
Continued absence of any member from regular meetings of
the board shall, at the discretion of the applicable governing
body, render any such member liable to immediate removal
from office.
A 101. 4 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute
a quorum. In varying the application of any provisions of this
code or in modifying an order of the fire code official, affirma-
tive votes of the majority present, but not less than three, shall
be required.
A101.5 Secretary of board. The fire code official shall act as
secretary of the board and shall keep a detailed record of all its
proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for its decisions,
the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any fail-
ure of a member to vote.
A101.6 Legal counsel. The jurisdiction shall furnish legal
counsel to the board to provide members with general legal
advice concerning matters before them for consideration.
Members shall be represented by legal counsel at the jurisdic-
tion's expense in all matters arising from service within the
scope of their duties.
A101.7 Meetings. The board shall meet at regular intervals, to
be determined by the chairman. In any event, the board shall
meet within 10 days after notice of appeal has been received.
A101.8 Conflict of interest. Members with a material or finan-
cial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such
interest and refrain from participating in discussions, delibera-
tions, and voting on such matters.
A101.9 Decisions. Every decision shall be promptly filed in
writing in the office of the fire code official and shall be open to
public inspection. A certified copy shall be sent by mail or oth-
erwise to the appellant, and a copy shall be kept publicly posted
in the office of the fire code official for 2 weeks after filing.
A 101. 10 Procedures. The board shall be operated in accor-
dance with the Administrative Procedures Act of the state in
which it is established or shall establish rules and regulations
for its own procedure not inconsistent with the provisions of
this code and applicable state law.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
391
392 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
APPENDIX B
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
SECTION B101
GENERAL
BlOl.l Scope. The procedure for determining fire-flow
requirements for buildings or portions of buildings hereafter
constructed shall be in accordance with this appendix. This
appendix does not apply to structures other than buildings.
B 104.3 Type lA and Type IB construction. The fire-flow cal-
culation area of buildings constructed of Type lA and Type IB
construction shall be the area of the three largest successive
floors.
Exception: Fire-flow calculation area for open parking
garages shall be determined by the area of the largest floor.
SECTION B102
DEFINITIONS
B102.1 Definitions. For the purpose of this appendix, certain
terms are defined as follows:
FIRE-FLOW. The flow rate of a water supply, measured at 20
pounds per square inch (psi) (138 kPa) residual pressure, that is
available for fire fighting.
FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA. The floor area, in
square feet (m^), used to determine the required fire flow.
SECTION B103
MODIFICATIONS
B103.1 Decreases. The fire chief is authorized to reduce the
fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of
buildings in rural areas or small communities where the devel-
opment of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.
B 103.2 Increases. The fire chief is authorized to increase the
fire-flow requirements where conditions indicate an unusual
susceptibility to group fires or conflagrations. An increase
shall not be more than twice that required for the building under
consideration.
B 103.3 Areas without water supply systems. For informa-
tion regarding water supplies for fire-fighting purposes in rural
and suburban areas in which adequate and reliable water sup-
ply systems do not exist, the fire code official is authorized to
utilize NFPA 1 142 or the International Wildland-Urban Inter-
face Code.
SECTION 8105
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. The minimum
fire-flow requirements for one- and two-family dwellings hav-
ing a fire-flow calculation area which does not exceed 3,600
square feet (344.5 m^) shall be 1,000 gallons per minute
(3785.4 L/min). Fire-flow and flow duration for dwellings hav-
ing a fire-flow calculation area in excess of 3,600 square feet
(344.5 m2) shall not be less than that specified in TableB105.1.
Exception: A reduction in required fire flow of 50 percent,
as approved, is allowed when the building is provided with
an approved automatic sprinkler system.
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings.
The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other
than one- and two-family dwellings shall be as specified in
Table B105.1.
Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of up to 75
percent, as approved, is allowed when the building is pro-
vided with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The
resulting fire-flow shall not be less than 1 ,500 gallons per
minute (5678 L/min) for the prescribed duration as speci-
fied in Table B 105. 1 .
SECTION B104
FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA
B104.1 General. The fire-flow calculation area shall be the ICC IBC
total floor area of all floor levels within the exterior walls, and
under the horizontal projections of the roof of a building, iqq
except as modified in Section B 104.3.
B104.2 Area separation. Portions of buildings which are sep- NFPA 1 142
arated by fire walls without openings, constructed in accor-
dance with the International Building Code, are allowed to be
considered as separate fire-flow calculation areas.
SECTION B106
REFERENCED STANDARDS
International Building Code
IWUIC International Wildland-
Urban Interface Code
B 104.2,
Table B 105.1
B103.3
Standard on Water Supplies for B 1 03 . 3
Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
393
APPENDIX B
TABLE B105.1
MINIMUM REQUIRED FIRE-FLOW AND FLOW DURATION FOR BUILDINGS'
FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA (square feet)
FIRE-FLOW
(gallons per minute)'^
FLOW DURATION
(hours)
Type lA and IB''
Type MA and IIIA'>
Type IV and V-A"
Type MB and IMB"
Type V-B"
0-22,700
0-12,700
0-8,200
0-5,900
0-3,600
1,500
2
22,701-30,200
12,701-17,000
8,201-10,900
5,901-7,900
3,601-4,800
1,750
30,201-38,700
17,001-21,800
10,901-12,900
7,901-9,800
4,801-6,200
2,000
38,701-48,300
21,801-24,200
12,901-17,400
9,801-12,600
6,201-7,700
2,250
48,301-59,000
24,201-33,200
17,401-21,300
12,601-15,400
7,701-9,400
2,500
59,001-70,900
33,201-39,700
21,301-25,500
15,401-18,400
9,401-11,300
2,750
70,901-83,700
39,701-47,100
25,501-30,100
18,401-21,800
11,301-13,400
3,000
3
83,701-97,700
47,101-54,900
30,101-35,200
21,801-25,900
13,401-15,600
3,250
97,701-112,700
54,901-63,400
35,201-40,600
25,901-29,300
15,601-18,000
3,500
112,701-128,700
63,401-72,400
40,601-46,400
29,301-33,500
18,001-20,600
3,750
128,701-145,900
72,401-82,100
46,401-52,500
33,501-37,900
20,601-23,300
4,000
4
145,901-164,200
82,101-92,400
52,501-59,100
37,901-42,700
23,301-26,300
4,250
164,201-183,400
92,401-103,100
59,101-66,000
42,701-47,700
26,301-29,300
4,500
183,401-203,700
103,101-114,600
66,001-73,300
47,701-53,000
29,301-32,600
4,750
203,701-225,200
114,601-126,700
73,301-81,100
53,001-58,600
32,601-36,000
5,000
225,201-247,700
126,701-139,400
81,101-89,200
58,601-65,400
36,001-39,600
5,250
247,701-271,200
139,401-152,600
89,201-97,700
65,401-70,600
39,601-43,400
5,500
271,201-295,900
152,601-166,500
97,701-106,500
70,601-77,000
43,401-47,400
5,750
295,901-Greater
166,501-Greater
106,501-115,800
77,001-83,700
47,401-51,500
6,000
—
—
115,801-125,500
83,701-90,600
51,501-55,700
6,250
—
—
125,501-135,500
90,601-97,900
55,701-60,200
6,500
—
—
135,501-145,800
97,901-106,800
60,201-64,800
6,750
—
—
145,801-156,700
106,801-113,200
64,801-69,600
7,000
—
—
156,701-167,900
113,201-121,300
69,601-74,600
7,250
—
—
167,901-179,400
121,301-129,600
74,601-79,800
7,500
—
—
179,401-191,400
129,601-138,300
79,801-85,100
7,750
—
—
19 1,401 -Greater
138,301 -Greater
85, 101 -Greater
8,000
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m^, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. The minimum required fire flow shall be allowed to be reduced by 25 percent for Group R.
b. Types of construction are based on the International Building Code.
c. Measured at 20 psi.
394
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
APPENDIX C
FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
SECTION CI 01
GENERAL
ClOl.l Scope. Fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance
with this appendix for the protection of buildings, or portions
of buildings, hereafter constructed.
SECTION C1 02
LOCATION
C102.1 Fire hydrant locations. Fire hydrants shall be pro-
vided along required fire apparatus access roads and adjacent
public streets.
SECTION CI 03
NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS
C103.1 Fire hydrants available. The minimum number of fire
hydrants available to a building shall not be less than that listed
in Table C105.1. The number of fire hydrants available to a
complex or subdivision shall not be less than that determined
by spacing requirements listed in Table CI 05.1 when applied
to fire apparatus access roads and perimeter public streets from
which fire operations could be conducted.
SECTION C1 04
CONSIDERATION OF EXISTING FIRE HYDRANTS
C104.1 Existing fire hydrants. Existing fire hydrants on pub-
lic streets are allowed to be considered as available. Existing
fire hydrants on adjacent properties shall not be considered
available unless fire apparatus access roads extend between
properties and easements are established to prevent obstruction
of such roads.
SECTION C1 05
DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS
C105.1 Hydrant spacing. The average spacing between fire
hydrants shall not exceed that listed in Table C105.1.
Exception: The fire chief is authorized to accept a defi-
ciency of up to 10 percent where existing fire hydrants pro-
vide all or a portion of the required fire hydrant service.
Regardless of the average spacing, fire hydrants shall be
located such that all points on streets and access roads adjacent
to a building are within the distances listed in Table CI 05.1.
TABLE C1 05.1
NUMBER AND DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENT
(gpm)
MINIMUM NUMBER
OF HYDRANTS
AVERAGE SPACING
BETWEEN HYDRANTS^' "■ "
(feet)
MAXIMUM DISTANCE FROM
ANY POINT ON STREET OR ROAD
FRONTAGE TO A HYDRANT'
1,750 or less
1
500
250
2,000-2,250
2
450
225
2,500
3
450
225
3,000
3
400
225
3,500-4,000
4
350
210
4,500-5,000
5
300
180
5,500
6
300
180
6,000
6
250
150
6,500-7,000
7
250
150
7,500 or more
8 or more^
200
120
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
b. Where streets are provided with median dividers which can be crossed by frre fighters pulling hose lines, or where arterial streets are provided with four or more
traffic lanes and have a traffic count of more than 30,000 vehicles per day, hydrant spacing shall average 500 feet on each side of the street and be arranged on an
alternating basis up to a fire-flow requirement of 7,000 gallons per minute and 400 feet for higher fire-flow requirements.
c. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be pro-
vided at spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet to provide for transportation hazards.
d. Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
e. One hydrant for each 1,000 gallons per minute or fraction thereof.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*"
395
396 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
SECTION D101
GENERAL
DlOl.l Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accor-
dance with this appendix and all other applicable requirements
of the International Fire Code.
SECTION D1 02
REQUIRED ACCESS
D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions
of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire
department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus
access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving
surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire appara-
tus weighing at least 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).
SECTION D103
MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS
D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire
hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum
road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm). See Figure D103.1.
D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10
percent in grade.
Exception: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by
the fire chief.
D103.3 l\iming radius. The minimum turning radius shall be
determined by the fire code official.
D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in
excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width
and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.
TABLE D1 03.4
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE
APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH
(feet)
WIDTH
(feet)
TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0-150
20
None required
151-500
20
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot "Y" or
96-foot-diameter cul-de-sac in
accordance with Figure D 103.1
501-750
26
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot "Y" or
96-foot-diameter cul-de-sac in
accordance with Figure D 103.1
Over 750
Special approval required
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the
fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the follow-
ing criteria:
1. The minimum gate width shall be 20 feet (6096 mm).
0^
96' DIAMETER
CUL-DE-SAC
26' R
TYR'
-20'
60' "Y"
20'^^
26'
20'
MINIMUM CLEARANCE
AROUND A FIRE
HYDRANT
60'-
28' R
TYR'
60'
A
20'-^
■26'
120' HAMMERHEAD
■20'
ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATIVE
TO 120' HAMMERHEAD
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE D103.1
DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE""
397
APPENDIX D
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.
7. Locking device specifications shall be submitted for
approval by the fire code official.
D103.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire
apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent NO
PARKING— FIRE LANE signs complying with Figure
D 103.6. Signs shall have a minimum dimension of 12 inches
(305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high and have red let-
ters on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on
one or both sides of the fire apparatus road as required by Sec-
tion D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.
SIGN TYPE "A"
SIGN TYPE "C"
SIGN TYPE "D"
NO
PARKING
FIRE LANE
NO
PARKING
FIRE LANE
NO
PARKING
FIRE LANE
ia"
12"
12"
12"
D 104.2 Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area.
Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than
62,000 square feet (5760 m^) shall be provided with two sepa-
rate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to
124,000 square feet (1 1 520 m^) that have a single approved
fire apparatus access road when all buildings are equipped
throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two access roads are required,
they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one
half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension
of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line
between accesses.
SECTION D105
AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
PlOS.l Wliere required. Buildings or portions of buildings or
facihties exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) in height above the low-
est level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided
with approved fire apparatus access roads capable of accom-
modating fire department aerial apparatus. Overhead utility
and power lines shall not be located within the aerial fire appa-
ratus access roadway.
D105.2 Width. Fire apparatus access roads shall have a mini-
mum unobstructed width of 26 feet (7925 mm) in the immedi-
ate vicinity of any building or portion of building more than 30
feet (9144 mm) in height.
D105.3 Proximity to building. At least one of the required
access routes meeting this condition shall be located within a
minimum of 15 feet (4572 mm) and a maximum of 30 feet
(9144 mm) from the building, and shall be positioned parallel
to one entire side of the building.
FIGURE D103.6
FIRE LANE SIGNS
D103.6.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in widtli. Fire apparatus
access roads 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm) shall be
posted on both sides as a fire lane.
D103.6.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire appara-
tus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) to 32
feet wide (9754 mm) shall be posted on one side of the road
as a fire lane.
SECTION D104
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D104.1 Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in
height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or
three stories in height shall have at least three means of fire
apparatus access for each structure.
SECTION D106
MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D106.1 Projects having more than 100 dwelling units. Mul-
tiple-family residential projects having more than 100 dwell-
ing units shall be equipped throughout with two separate and
approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units may
have a single approved fire apparatus access road when all
buildings, including nonresidential occupancies, are
equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler
systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
903.3.1.2.
D106.2 Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Mul-
tiple-family residential projects having more than 200 dwell-
ing units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire
apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped
with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
398
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
APPENDIX D
SECTION D107
ONE- OR TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENTS
D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential develop-
ments. Developments of one- or two-family dwellings where
the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be provided with
separate and approved fire apparatus access roads and shall
meet the requirements of Section D104.3.
Exceptions:
1 . Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a sin-
gle public or private fire apparatus access road and all
dwelling units are equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.3,
access from two directions shall not be required.
2. The number of dwelling units on a single fire appara-
tus access road shall not be increased unless fire appa-
ratus access roads will connect with future
development, as determined by the fire code official.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE"^ 399
400 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'*
APPENDIX E
HAZARD CATEGORIES
This appendix is for information purposes and is not intended for adoption.
SECTION E1 01
GENERAL
ElOl.l Scope. This appendix provides information, explana-
tions and examples to illustrate and clarify the hazard catego-
ries contained in Chapter 27 of the International Fire Code.
The hazard categories are based upon the DOL 29 CFR. Where
numerical classifications are included, they are in accordance
with nationally recognized standards.
This appendix should not be used as the sole means of haz-
ardous materials classification.
SECTION E102
HAZARD CATEGORIES
E102.1 Physical hazards. Materials classified in this section
pose a physical hazard.
E102.1.1 Explosives and blasting agents. The current
UN/DOT classification system recognized by international
authorities, the Department of Defense and others classifies
all explosives as Class 1 materials. They are then divided
into six separate divisions to indicate their relative hazard.
There is not a direct correlation between the designations
used by the old DOT system and those used by the current
system nor is there correlation with the system (high and
low) established by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms (BATE). Table 3304.3 provides some guidance
with regard to the current categories and their relationship to
the old categories. Some items may appear in more than one
division, depending on factors such as the degree of con-
finement or separation, by type of packaging, storage con-
figuration or state of assembly.
In order to determine the level of hazard presented by
explosive materials, testing to establish quantitatively their
explosive nature is required. There are numerous test meth-
ods that have been used to establish the character of an
explosive material. Standardized tests, required for finished
goods containing explosives or explosive materials in a
packaged form suitable for shipment or storage, have been
estabhshed by UN/DOT and BATE. However, these tests do
not consider key elements that should be examined in a
manufacturing situation. In manufacturing operations, the
condition and/or the state of a material may vary within the
process. The in-process material classification and classifi-
cation requirements for materials used in the manufacturing
process may be different from the classification of the same
material when found in finished goods depending on the
stage of the process in which the material is found. A classi-
fication methodology inust be used that recognizes the haz-
ards commensurate with the application to the variable
physical conditions as well as potential variations of physi-
cal character and type of explosive under consideration.
Test methods or guidelines for hazard classification of ener-
getic materials used for in-process operations shall be
approved by the fire code official. Test methods used shall
be DOD, BATF, UN/DOT or other approved criteria. The
results of such testing shall become a portion of the files of
the jurisdiction and be included as an independent section of
any Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP)
required by Section 3305.2.1. Also see Section 104.7.2.
Examples of materials in various Divisions are as fol-
lows:
1. Division 1.1 (High Explosives). Consists of explo-
sives that have a mass explosion hazard. A mass
explosion is one which affects almost the entire pile of
material instantaneously. Includes substances that,
when tested in accordance with approved methods,
can be caused to detonate by means of a blasting cap
when unconfined or will transition from deflagration
to a detonation when confined or unconfined. Exam-
ples: dynamite, TNT, nitroglycerine, C-3, HMX,
RDX, encased explosives, military anmiunition.
2. Division 1.2 (Low Explosives). Consists of explo-
sives that have a projection hazard, but not a mass
explosion hazard. Examples: nondetonating encased
explosives, military ammunition and the like.
3. Division 1.3 (Low Explosives). Consists of explo-
sives that have a fire hazard and either a minor blast
hazard or a minor projection hazard or both, but not a
mass explosion hazard. The major hazard is radiant
heat or violent burning, or both. Can be deflagrated
when confined. Examples: smokeless powder, pro-
pellant explosives, display fireworks.
4. Division 1 .4. Consists of explosives that pose a minor
explosion hazard. The explosive effects are largely
confined to the package and no projection of frag-
ments of appreciable size or range is expected. An
internal fire must not cause virtually instantaneous
explosion of almost the entire contents of the pack-
age. Examples: squibs (nondetonating igniters),
explosive actuators, explosive trains (low level deto-
nating cord).
5. Division 1.5 (Blasting Agents). Consists of very
insensitive explosives. This division is comprised of
substances which have a mass explosion hazard, but
are so insensitive that there is very little probability of
initiation or of transition from burning to detonation
under normal conditions of transport. Materials are
not cap sensitive; however, they are mass detonating
when provided with sufficient input. Examples: oxi-
dizer and liquid fuel slurry mixtures and gels, ammo-
nium nitrate combined with fuel oil.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
401
APPENDIX E
6. Division 1 .6. Consists of extremely insensitive arti-
cles which do not have a mass explosive hazard. This
division is comprised of articles which contain only
extremely insensitive detonating substances and
which demonstrate a negligible probability of acci-
dental initiation or propagation. Although this cate-
gory of materials has been defined, the primary
application is currently limited to military uses.
Examples: Low vulnerability military weapons.
Explosives in each division are assigned a compatibility
group letter by the Associate Administrator for Hazardous
Materials Safety (DOT) based on criteria specified by
DOTn 49CFR. Compatibility group letters are used to spec-
ify the controls for the transportation and storage related to
various materials to prevent an increase in hazard that might
result if certain types of explosives were stored or trans-
ported together. Altogether, there are 35 possible classifica-
tion codes for explosives, e.g., 1.1 A, 1.3C, 1.4S, etc.
E102.1.2 Compressed gases. Examples include:
1 . Flammable: acetylene, carbon monoxide, ethane, eth-
ylene, hydrogen, methane. Ammonia will ignite and
bum although its flammable range is too narrow for it
to fit the definition of flammable gas.
2. Oxidizing: oxygen, ozone, oxides of nitrogen, chlo-
rine and fluorine. Chlorine and fluorine do not contain
oxygen but reaction with flammables is similar to that
of oxygen.
3. Corrosive: ammonia, hydrogen chloride, fluorine.
4. Highly toxic: arsine, cyanogen, fluorine, germane,
hydrogen cyanide, nitric oxide, phosphine, hydrogen
selenide, stibine.
5. Toxic: chlorine, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen sulfide,
phosgene, silicon tetrafluoride.
6. Inert (chemically unreactive): argon, helium, kryp-
ton, neon, nitrogen, xenon.
7. Pyrophoric: diborane, dichloroborane, phosphine,
silane.
8. Unstable (reactive): butadiene (unstabilized), ethyl-
ene oxide, vinyl chloride.
E102.1.3 Flammable and combustible liquids. Examples
include:
1. Flammable liquids.
Class lA liquids shall include those having flash
points below 73°F (23°C) and having a boiling
point at or below 100°F (38°C).
Class IB liquids shall include those having flash
points below 73°F (23°C) and having a boiling
point at or above 100°F (38°C).
Class IC liquids shall include those having flash
points at or above 73°F (23°C.) and below 100°F
(38°C).
2. Combustible liquids.
Class II liquids shall include those having flash
points at or above 100°F (38°C) and below UO°F
(60°C).
Class IIIA liquids shall include those having flash
points at or above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F
(93°C).
Class IIIB liquids shall include those liquids hav-
ing flash points at or above 200°F (93°C).
E102.1.4 Flammable solids. Examples include:
1. Organic solids: camphor, cellulose nitrate, naphtha-
lene.
2. Inorganic solids: decaborane, lithium amide, phos-
phorous heptasulfide, phosphorous sesquisulfide,
potassium sulfide, anhydrous sodium sulfide, sulfur.
3. Combustible metals (except dusts and powders):
cesium, magnesium, zirconium.
E 102. 1.5 Combustible dusts and powders. Finely divided
solids which may be dispersed in air as a dust cloud: wood
sawdust, plastics, coal, flour, powdered metals (few excep-
tions).
E102.1.6 Combustible fibers. See Section 2902.1.
E102.1.7 Oxidizers. Examples include:
1. Gases: oxygen, ozone, oxides of nitrogen, fluorine
and chlorine (reaction with flammables is similar to
that of oxygen).
2. Liquids: bromine, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid,
perchloric acid, sulfuric acid.
3. Solids: chlorates, chromates, chromic acid, iodine,
nitrates, nitrites, perchlorates, peroxides.
E102.1.7.1 Examples of liquid and solid oxidizers
according to hazard.
Class 4: ammonium perchlorate (particle size greater
than 15 microns), ammonium permanganate,
guanidine nitrate, hydrogen peroxide solutions more
than 91 percent by weight, perchloric acid solutions
more than 72.5 percent by weight, potassium
superoxide, tetranitromethane.
Class 3: ammonium dichromate, calcium
hypochlorite (over 50 percent by weight), chloric acid
(10 percent maximum concentration), hydrogen per-
oxide solutions (greater than 52 percent up to 91 per-
cent), mono-(trichloro)-tetra-(monopotassium
dichloro)-penta-s-triazinetrione, nitric acid, (fuming
— more than 86 percent concentration), perchloric
acid solutions (60 percent to 72 percent by weight),
potassium bromate, potassium chlorate, potassium
dichloro-s-triazinetrione (potassium dichloro-
isocyanurate), sodium bromate, sodium chlorate,
sodium chlorite (over 40 percent by weight) and
402
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
APPENDIX E
sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione (sodium dicliloro-
isocyanurate).
Class 2: barium bromate, barium chlorate, barium
hypochlorite, barium perchlorate, barium permanga-
nate, l-bromo-3-chloro-5, 5-dimethylhydantoin, cal-
cium chlorate, calcium chlorite, calcium hypochlorite
(50 percent or less by weight), calcium perchlorate,
calcium permanganate, chromium trioxide (chromic
acid), copper chlorate, halane (1, 3-dichloro-5,
5-dimethylhydantoin), hydrogen peroxide (greater
than 27.5 percent up to 52 percent), lead perchlorate,
lithium chlorate, lithium hypochlorite (more than 39
percent available chlorine), lithium perchlorate, mag-
nesium bromate, magnesium chlorate, magnesium
perchlorate, mercurous chlorate, nitric acid (more
than 40 percent but less than 86 percent), perchloric
acid solutions (more than 50 percent but less than 60
percent), potassium perchlorate, potassium per-
manganate, potassium peroxide, potassium
superoxide, silver peroxide, sodium chlorite (40 per-
cent or less by weight), sodium perchlorate, sodium
perchlorate monohydrate, sodium permanganate,
sodium peroxide, strontium chlorate, strontium per-
chlorate, thallium chlorate, trichloro-s-triazinetrione
(trichloroisocyanuric acid), urea hydrogen peroxide,
zinc bromate, zinc chlorate and zinc permanganate.
Class 1 : all inorganic nitrates (unless otherwise classi-
fied), all inorganic nitrites (unless otherwise classi-
fied), ammonium persulfate, barium peroxide,
calcium peroxide, hydrogen peroxide solutions
(greater than 8 percent up to 27.5 percent), lead diox-
ide, lithium hypochlorite (39 percent or less available
chlorine), lithium peroxide, magnesium peroxide,
manganese dioxide, nitric acid (40 percent concentra-
tion or less), perchloric acid solutions (less than 50
percent by weight), potassium dichromate, potassium
percarbonate, potassium persulfate, sodium carbon-
ate peroxide, sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione
dihydrate, sodium dichromate, sodium perborate
(anhydrous), sodium perborate monohydrate, sodium
perborate tetrahydrate, sodium percarbonate, sodium
persulfate, strontium peroxide and zinc peroxide.
E102.1.8 Organic peroxides. Organic peroxides contain
the double oxygen or peroxy (-o-o) group. Some are flam-
mable compounds and subject to explosive decomposition.
They are available as:
1. Liquids.
2. Pastes.
3. Solids (usually finely divided powers).
E102. 1.8.1 Classification of organic peroxides
according to hazard.
Unclassified: Unclassified organic peroxides are
capable of detonation and are regulated in accordance
with Chapter 33.
Class I: acetyl cyclohexane sulfonyl 60-65 percent
concentration by weight, fulfonyl peroxide, benzoyl
peroxide over 98 percent concentration, t-butyl
hydroperoxide 90 percent, t-butyl peroxyacetate 75
percent, t-butyl peroxyisopropylcarbonate 92 per-
cent, diisopropyl peroxy dicarbonate 100 percent,
di-n-propyl peroxydicarbonate 98 percent, and
di-n-propyl peroxydicarbonate 85 percent.
Class II: acetyl peroxide 25 percent, t-butyl
hydroperoxide 70 percent (with DTBP and t-BuOH
diluents), t-butyl peroxybenzoate 98 percent, t-butyl
peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate 97 percent, t-butyl
peroxyisobutyrate 75 percent, t-butyl
peroxyisopropyl-carbonate 75 percent, t-butyl
peroxypivalate 75 percent, dybenzoyl
peroxydicarbonate 85 percent, di-sec-butyl
peroxydicarbonate 98 percent, di-sec-butyl
peroxydicarbonate 75 percent,
1 , 1 -di-(t-butylperoxy )-3 ,5 ,5 -trimethy ecy clohexane
95 percent, di-(2-ethythexyl) peroxydicarbonate 97
percent, 2,5-dymethyl-2-5 di (benzoylperoxy) hex-
ane 92 percent, and peroxyacetic acid 43 percent.
Class III: acetyl cyclohexane sulfonal peroxide 29
percent, benzoyl peroxide 78 percent, benzoyl perox-
ide paste 55 percent, benzoyl peroxide paste 50 per-
cent peroxide/50 percent butylbenzylphthalate
diluent, cumene hydroperoxide 86 percent,
di-(4-butylcyclohexyl) peroxydicarbonate 98 per-
cent, t-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate 97 percent,
t-butyl peroxyneodecanoate 75 percent, decanoyl
peroxide 98.5 percent, di-t-butyl peroxide 99 percent,
l,l-di-(t-butylperoxy)3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexane75
percent, 2,4-dichlorobenzoyl peroxide 50 percent,
diisopropyl peroxydicarbonate 30 percent,
2,-5-dimethyl-2,5-di-(2-ethylhexanolyperoxy)-hex-
ane 90 percent, 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di-(t-butylperoxy)
hexane 90 percent and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide 9
percent active oxygen diluted in dimethyl phthalate.
Class IV: benzoyl peroxide 70 percent, benzoyl per-
oxide paste 50 percent peroxide/15 percent water/35
percent butylphthalate diluent, benzoyl peroxide
slurry 40 percent, benzoyl peroxide powder 35 per-
cent, t-butyl hydroperoxide 70 percent, (with water
diluent), t-butyl peroxy-2-ethylhexanoate 50 percent,
decumyl peroxide 98 percent, di-(2-ethylhexal)
peroxydicarbonate 40 percent, laurel peroxide 98 per-
cent, p-methane hydroperoxide 52.5 percent, methyl
ethyl ketone peroxide 5.5 percent active oxygen and
methyl ethyl ketone peroxide 9 percent active oxygen
diluted in water and glycols.
Class V: benzoyl peroxide 35 percent, 1,1 -di-t-butyl
peroxy 3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexane 40 percent,
2,5-di-(t-butyl peroxy) hexane 47 percent and
2,4-pentanedione peroxide 4 percent active oxygen.
E102.1.9 Pyrophoric materials.Examples include:
1. Gases: diborane, phosphine, silane.
2. Liquids: diethylaluminum chloride, di-
ethylberyllium, diethylphosphine, diethylzinc,
dimethylarsine, triethylaluminum etherate, tri-
ethylbismuthine, triethylboron, trimethylaluminum,
trimethylgallium.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
403
APPENDIX E
3. Solids: cesium, hafnium, lithium, white or yellow
phosphorous, plutonium, potassium, rubidium,
sodium, thorium.
E102.1.10 Unstable (reactive) materials. Examples
include:
Class 4: acetyl peroxide, dibutyl peroxide, dinitroben-
zene, ethyl nitrate, peroxyacetic acid and picric acid
(dry) trinitrobenzene.
Class 3: hydrogen peroxide (greater than 52 percent),
hydroxylamine, nitromethane, paranitroaniline,
perchloric acid and tetrafluoroethylene monomer.
Class 2: acrolein, acrylic acid, hydrazine, methacrylic
acid, sodium perchlorate, styrene and vinyl acetate.
Class 1 : acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide 35 percent to 52
percent, paraldehyde and tetrahydrofuran.
E102.1.11 Water-reactive materials. Examples include:
Class 3: aluminum alky Is such as triethylaluminum,
isobutylaluminum and trimethylaluminum; bromine
pentafluoride, bromine trifluoride,
chlorodiethylaluminium and diethylzinc.
Class 2: calcium carbide, calcium metal, cyanogen bro-
mide, lithium hydride, methyldichlorosilane, potassium
metal, potassium peroxide, sodium metal, sodium perox-
ide, sulfuric acid and trichlorosilane.
Class 1: acetic anhydride, sodium hydroxide, sulfur
monochloride and titanium tetrachloride.
E102.1.12 Cryogenic fluids. The cryogenics listed will
exist as compressed gases when they are stored at ambient
temperatures.
1. Flammable: carbon monoxide, deuterium (heavy
hydrogen), ethylene, hydrogen, methane.
2. Oxidizing: fluorine, nitric oxide, oxygen.
3. Corrosive: fluorine, nitric oxide.
4. Inert (chemically unreactive): argon, helium, kryp-
ton, neon, nitrogen, xenon.
5. Highly toxic: fluorine, nitric oxide.
E102.2 Health hazards. Materials classified in this section
pose a health hazard.
E102.2.1 Highly toxic materials. Examples include:
1. Gases: arsine, cyanogen, diborane, fluorine, ger-
mane, hydrogen cyanide, nitric oxide, nitrogen diox-
ide, ozone, phosphine, hydrogen selenide, stibine.
2. Liquids: acrolein, acrylic acid, 2-chloroethanol (eth-
ylene chlorohydrin), hydrazine, hydrocyanic acid,
2-methylaziridine (propylenimine),
2-methylacetonitrile (acetone cyanohydrin), methyl
ester isocyanic acid (methyl isocyanate), nicotine,
tetranitromethane and tetraethylstannane
(tetraethyltin).
3. Solids: (aceto) phenylmercury (phenyl mercuric ace-
tate), 4-aminopyridine, arsenic pentoxide, arsenic tri-
oxide, calcium cyanide, 2-chloroacetophenone,
aflatoxin B, decaborane(14), mercury (II) bromide
(mercuric bromide), mercury (II) chloride (corrosive
mercury chloride), pentachlorophenol, methyl para-
thion, phosphorus (white) and sodium azide.
E102.2.2 Toxic materials. Examples include:
1. Gases: boron trichloride, boron trifluoride, chlorine,
chlorine trifluoride, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen sul-
fide, phosgene, silicon tetrafluoride.
2. Liquids: acrylonitrile, allyl alcohol,
alpha-chlorotoluene, aniline, 1-chloro-
2,3-epoxypropane, chloroformic acid (allyl ester),
3-chloropropene (allyl chloride), o-cresol,
crotonaldehyde, dibromomethane,
diisopropylamine, diethyl ester sulfuric acid,
dimethyl ester sulfuric acid, 2-furaldehyde (furfural),
furfural alcohol, phosphorus chloride, phosphoryl
chloride (phosphorus oxychloride) and thionyl chlo-
ride.
3. Solids: acrylamide, barium chloride, barium (II)
nitrate, benzidine, p-benzoquinone, beryllium chlo-
ride, cadmium chloride, cadmium oxide, chloroacetic
acid, chlorophenylmercury (phenyl mercuric chlo-
ride), chromium (VI) oxide (chromic acid, solid), 2,4-
dinitrotoluene, hydroquinone, mercury chloride (cal-
omel), mercury (II) sulfate (mercuric sulfate),
osmium tetroxide, oxalic acid, phenol,
P-phenylenediamine, phenylhydrazine,
4-phenylmorpholine, phosphorus sulfide, potassium
fluoride, potassium hydroxide, selenium (IV)
disulfide and sodium fluoride.
E102.2.3 Corrosives. Examples include:
1. Acids: Examples: chromic, formic, hydrochloric
(muriatic) greater than 15 percent, hydrofluoric, nitric
(greater than 6 percent, perchloric, sulfuric (4 percent
or more).
2. Bases (alkalis): hydroxides — ammonium (greater
than 10 percent), calcium, potassium (greater than 1
percent), sodium (greater than 1 percent); certain car-
bonates — potassium.
3. Other corrosives: bromine, chlorine, fluorine, iodine,
ammonia.
Note: Corrosives that are oxidizers, e.g., nitric acid,
chlorine, fluorine; or are compressed gases, e.g., ammo-
nia, chlorine, fluorine; or are water-reactive, e.g., con-
centrated sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, are physical
hazards in addition to being health hazards.
SECTION E103
EVALUATION OF HAZARDS
E103.1 Degree of hazard. The degree of hazard present
depends on many variables which should be considered indi-
vidually and in combination. Some of these variables are as
shown in Sections El 03. 1.1 through El 03. 1.5.
E103.1.1 Chemical properties of the material. Chemical
properties of the material determine self reactions and reac-
tions which may occur with other materials. Generally,
404
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
APPENDIX E
materials within subdivisions of hazai^d categories will
exhibit similar chemical properties. However, materials
with similar chemical properties may pose very different
hazards. Each individual material should be researched to
determine its hazardous properties and then considered in
relation to other materials that it might contact and the sur-
rounding environment.
E103.1.2 Physical properties of the material. Physical
properties, such as whether a material is a solid, liquid or gas
at ordinary temperatures and pressures, considered along
with chemical properties will determine requirements for
containment of the material. Specific gravity (weight of a
liquid compared to water) and vapor density (weight of a gas
compared to air) are both physical properties which are
important in evaluating the hazards of a material.
E103.1.3 Amount and concentration of the material. The
amount of material present and its concentration must be
considered along with physical and chemical properties to
determine the magnitude of the hazard. Hydrogen peroxide,
for example, is used as an antiseptic and a hair bleach in low
concentrations (approximately 8 percent in water solution).
Over 8 percent, hydrogen peroxide is classed as an oxidizer
and is toxic. Above 90 percent, it is a Class 4 oxidizer "that
can undergo an explosive reaction when catalyzed or
exposed to heat, shock or friction," a definition which inci-
dentally also places hydrogen peroxide over 90-percent
concentration in the unstable (reactive) category. Small
amounts at high concentrations may present a greater haz-
ard than large amounts at low concentrations.
E103.1.3.1 Mixtures. Gases — toxic and highly toxic
gases include those gases which have an LC50 of 2,000
parts per million (ppm) or less when rats are exposed for
a period of 1 hour or less. To maintain consistency with
the definitions for these materials, exposure data for peri-
ods other than 1 hour must be normalized to 1 hour. To
classify mixtures of compressed gases that contain one
or more toxic or highly toxic components, the LC50 of the
mixture must be determined. Mixtures that contain only
two components are binary mixtures. Those that contain
more than two components are multi-component mix-
tures. When two or more hazardous substances (compo-
nents) having an LC50 below 2,000 ppm are present in a
mixture, their combined effect, rather than that of the
individual substances (components), must be consid-
ered. In the absence of information to the contrary, the
effects of the hazards present must be considered as addi-
tive. Exceptions to the above rule may be made when
there is a good reason to believe that the principal effects
of the different harmful substances (components) are not
additive.
For binary mixtures where the hazardous component
is diluted with a nontoxic gas such as an inert gas, the
LC50 of the mixture is estimated by use of the following
formula:
^^ 50 m ~
1
iCJLC^J
(Equation E-1)
For multi-component mixtures where more than one
component has a listed LC^q, the LC^q of the mixture is
estimated by use of the following formula:
r =
^ 50m
where:
1
(C,, /LC5o,,)+(C,2 /LC5o,,)+(C,, /LC,)
(Equation E-2)
^Qom= ^Qo of the mixture in parts per million (ppm).
C, = concentration of component (/) in decimal per-
cent. The concentration of the individual com-
ponents in a mixture of gases is to be expressed
in terms of percent by volume.
LC50/ = LC50 of component (/). The LC50 of the compo-
nent is based on a 1-hour exposure. LC50 data
which are for other than 1-hour exposures shall
be normalized to 1-hour by multiplying the
LC50 for the time determined by the factor indi-
cated in Table El 03. 1.3.1. The preferred mam-
malian species for LC^q data is the rat, as
specified in the definitions of toxic and highly
toxic in Chapter 2 of the International Fire
Code. If data for rats are unavailable, and in the
absence of information to the contrary, data for
other species may be utilized. The data shall be
taken in the following order of preference: rat,
mouse, rabbit, guinea pig, cat, dog, monkey.
/„ = component 1 , component 2 and so on to the nth
component.
Examples:
a. What is the LC50 of ^ mixture of 15-percent chlorine,
85-percent nitrogen?
The 1-hour (rat) LC50 of pure chlorine is 293 ppm.
LCso^ = 1 / (0.15 / 293) or 1,953 ppm. Therefore, the
mixture is toxic.
b. What is the LC50 of a mixture of 15-percent chlorine,
15-percent fluorine and 70-percent nitrogen? The
1-hour (rat) LC50 of chlorine is 293 ppm. The 1-hour
(rat) LC50 of fluorine is 185 ppm.
LCjon, = 1 / (0.15 / 293) + (0.15 / 185) or 755 ppm.
Therefore the mixture is toxic.
c. Is the mixture of 1 percent phosphine in argon toxic or
highly toxic? The 1-hour (rat) LC50 is 11 ppm.
^Qom = 1 / [0.01 / (11 2)] or 2,200 ppm. Therefore
the mixture is neither toxic nor highly toxic.
Note that the 4-hour LC50 of 1 1 ppm was nor-
malized to 1-hour by use of Section
E103.1.3.1.
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
405
APPENDIX E
TABLE E1 03.1 .3.1
NORMALIZATION FACTOR
TIME (hours)
MULTIPLY BY
0.5
0.7
1.0
1.0
1.5
1.2
2.0
1.4
3.0
1.7
4.0
2.0
5.0
2.2
6.0
2.4
7.0
2.6
8.0
2.8
E103.1.4 Actual use, activity or process involving the
material. The definition of handling, storage and use in
closed systems refers to materials in packages or containers.
Dispensing and use in open containers or systems describes
situations where a material is exposed to ambient conditions
or vapors are liberated to the atmosphere. Dispensing and
use in open systems, then, are generally more hazardous sit-
uations than handling, storage or use in closed systems. The
actual use or process may include heating, electric or other
sparks, catalytic or reactive materials and many other fac-
tors which could affect the hazard and must therefore be
thoroughly analyzed.
E103.1.5 Surrounding conditions. Conditions such as
other materials or processes in the area, type of construction
of the structure, fire protection features (e.g., fire walls,
sprinkler systems, alarms, etc.), occupancy (use) of adjoin-
ing areas, normal temperatures, exposure to weather, etc.,
must be taken into account in evaluating the hazard.
E103.2 Evaluation questions. The following are sample eval-
uation questions:
1 . What is the material? Correct identification is impor-
tant; exact spelling is vital. Check labels, MSDS, ask
responsible persons, etc.
2. What are the concentration and strength?
3. What is the physical form of the material? Liquids,
gases and finely divided solids have differing require-
ments for spill and leak control and containment.
4. How much material is present? Consider in relation to
permit amounts, maximum allowable quantity per con-
trol area (from Group H occupancy requirements),
amounts which require detached storage and overall
magnitude of the hazard.
5. What other materials (including furniture, equipment
and building components) are close enough to interact
with the material?
6. What are the likely reactions?
7. What is the activity involving the material?
8. How does the activity impact the hazardous character-
istics of the material? Consider vapors released or haz-
ards otherwise exposed.
9. What must the material be protected from? Consider
other materials, temperature, shock, pressure, etc.
10. What effects of the material must people and the envi-
ronment be protected from?
1 1 . How can protection be accomplished? Consider:
11.1. Proper containers and equipment.
1 1 .2. Separation by distance or construction.
1 1.3. Enclosure in cabinets or rooms.
1 1 .4. Spill control, drainage and containment.
11.5. Control systems — ventilation, special electri-
cal, detection and alarm, extinguishment,
explosion venting, limit controls, exhaust
scrubbers and excess flow control.
11.6. Administrative (operational) controls — signs,
ignition source control, security, personnel
training, established procedures, storage plans
and emergency plans.
Evaluation of the hazard is a strongly subjec-
tive process; therefore, the person charged with
this responsibility must gather as much relevant
data as possible so that the decision will be
objective and within the limits prescribed in
laws, policies and standards.
It may be necessary to cause the responsible
persons in charge to have tests made by quali-
fied persons or testing laboratories to support
contentions that a particular material or process
is or is not hazardous. See Section 104.7.2 of
the International Fire Code.
406
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
APPENDIX F
HAZARD RANKING
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
SECTION F1 01
GENERAL
FlOl.l Scope. Assignment of levels of hazards to be applied to
specific hazard classes as required by NFPA 704 shall be in
accordance with this appendix. The appendix is based on appli-
cation of the degrees of hazard as defined in NFPA 704
arranged by hazard class as for specific categories defined in
Chapter 2 of the International Fire Code and used throughout.
F101.2 General. The hazard rankings shown in Table F101.2
have been established by using guidelines found within NFPA
704. As noted in Section 4.2 of NFPA 704, there could be spe-
cific reasons to alter the degree of hazard assigned to a specific
material; for example, ignition temperature, flammable range
or susceptibility of a container to rupture by an internal com-
bustion explosion or to metal failure while under pressure or
because of heat from external fire. As a result, the degree of
hazard assigned for the same material can vary when assessed
by different people of equal competence.
The hazard rankings assigned to each class represent reason-
able minimum hazard levels for a given class based on the use
of criteria estabhshed by NFPA 704. Specific cases of use or
storage may dictate the use of higher degrees of hazard in cer-
tain cases.
SECTION F1 02
REFERENCED STANDARDS
FlOl.l
FlOl.l, F101.2
ICC
IFC
International Fire Code
NFPA
704
Identification of the
Hazards of Materials for
Emergency Response
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® 407
APPENDIX F
TABLE F1 01 .2
FIRE FIGHTER WARNING PLACARD DESIGNATIONS BASED ON HAZARD CLASSIFICATION CATEGORIES
HAZARD CATEGORY
DESIGNATION
Combustible liquid II
F2
Combustible liquid IIIA
F2
Combustible liquid IIIB
Fl
Combustible dust
F4
Combustible fiber
F3
Cryogenic flammable
F4,H3
Cryogenic oxidizing
0X,H3
Explosive
R4
Flammable solid
F2
Flammable gas (gaseous)
F4
Flammable gas (liquefied)
F4
Flammable liquid lA
F4
Flammable liquid IB
F3
Flammable liquid IC
F3
Organic peroxide, UD
R4
Organic peroxide I
F4,R3
Organic peroxide II
F3,R3
Organic peroxide III
F2,R2
Organic peroxide IV
F1,R1
Organic peroxide V
Nonhazard
Oxidizing gas (gaseous)
OX
Oxidizing gas (liquefied)
OX
Oxidizer 4
OX
Oxidizer 3
OX
Oxidizer 2
OX
Pyrophoric gases
F4
Pyrophoric solids, liquids
F3
Unstable reactive 4D
R4
Unstable reactive 3D
R4
Unstable reactive 3N
R3
Unstable reactive 2
R2
Water reactive 3
W,R3
Water reactive 2
W,R2
Corrosive
H3, COR
Toxic
H3
Highly toxic
H4
F — Flammable category.
R — Reactive category.
H — Health category.
W — Special hazard: water reactive.
OX — Special hazard: oxidizing properties.
COR — Corrosive.
UD — Unclassified detonable material.
4D — Class 4 detonable material.
3D — Class 3 detonable material.
3N — Class 3 nondetonable material.
408
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
APPENDIX G
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS— WEIGHT AND VOLUME EQUIVALENTS
This appendix is for information purposes and is not intended for adoption.
SECTION G1 01
GENERAL
GlOl.l Scope. This appendix is used to convert from liquid to
gas for cryogenic fluids.
GlOl.l Conversion. Table G101.2 shall be used to determine
the equivalent amounts of cryogenic fluids in either the liquid
or gas phase.
GlOl.2.1 Use of the table. To use Table G101.2, read hori-
zontally across the line of interest. For example, to deter-
mine the number of cubic feet of gas contained in 1 .0 gallon
(3.785 L) of liquid argon, find 1.000 in the column entitled
"Volume of Liquid at Normal Boiling Point." Reading
across the line under the column entitled "Volume of Gas at
70°F and 1 atmosphere 14.7 psia," the value of 1 12.45 cubic
feet (3 . 1 84 m^) is found.
GlOl.2.2 Other quantities. If other quantities are of inter-
est, the numbers obtained can be multiplied or divided to
obtain the quantity of interest. For example, to determine the
number of cubic feet of argon gas contained in a volume of
1,000 gallons (3785 L) of liquid argon at its normal boiling
point, multiply 1 12.45 by 1,000 to obtain 1 12,450 cubic feet
(3184 m^).
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE® 409
APPENDIX G
TABLE G1 01 .2
WEIGHT AND VOLUME EQUIVALENTS FOR COMMON CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
CRYOGENIC
FLUID
WEIGHT OF LIQUID OR GAS
VOLUME OF LIQUID AT NORMAL
BOILING POINT
VOLUME OF GAS AT NTP
Pounds
Kilograms
Liters
Gallons
Cubic feet
Cubic meters
Argon
1.000
2.205
3.072
11.628
10.340
3.652
0.454
1.000
1.393
5.274
4.690
1.656
0.326
0.718
1.000
3.785
3.366
1.189
0.086
0.190
0.264
1.000
0.889
0.314
9.67
21.32
29.71
112.45
100.00
35.31
0.274
0.604
0.841
3.184
2.832
1.000
Helium
1.000
2.205
0.275
1.042
1.034
0.365
0.454
1.000
0.125
0.473
0.469
0.166
3.631
8.006
1.000
3.785
3.754
1.326
0.959
2.115
0.264
1.000
0.992
0.350
96.72
213.23
26.63
100.82
100.00
35.31
. 2.739
6.038
0.754
2.855
2.832
1.000
Hydrogen
1.000
2.205
0.156
0.591
0.521
0.184
0.454
1.000
0.071
0.268
0.236
0.083
6.409
14.130
1.000
3.785
3.339
1.179
1.693
3.733
0.264
1.000
0.882
0.311
191.96
423.20
29.95
113.37
100.00
35.31
5.436
11.984
0.848
3.210
2.832
1.000
Oxygen
1.000
2.205
2.517
9.527
8.281
2.924
0.454
1.000
1.142
4.321
3.756
1.327
0.397
0.876
1.000
3.785
3.290
1.162
0.105
0.231
0.264
1.000
0.869
0.307
12.00
26.62
30.39
115.05
100.00
35.31
0.342
0.754
0.861
3.250
2.832
1.000
Nitrogen
1.000
2.205
1.782
6.746
7.245
2.558
0.454
1.000
0.808
3.060
3.286
1.160
0.561
1.237
1.000
3.785
4.065
1.436
0.148
0.327
0.264
1.000
1.074
0.379
13.80
30.43
24.60
93.11
100.00
35.31
0.391
0.862
0.697
2.637
2.832
1.000
LNG'
1.000
2.205
0.951
3.600
4.356
11.501
0.454
1.000
0.431
1.633
1.976
5.217
1.052
2.320
1.000
3.785
4.580
1.616
0.278
0.613
0.264
1.000
1.210
0.427
22.968
50.646
21.812
82.62
100.00
35.31
0.650
1.434
0.618
2.340
2.832
1.000
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m^ °C = [(°F)-32]/1.8, 1 pound per square inch atmosphere = 6.895 kPa.
a. The values listed for liquefied natural gas (LNG) are "typical" values. LNG is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases, and no two LNG streams have exactly the same
composition.
410
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
INDEX
ABANDONED PREMISES
(see VACANT PREMISES)
ABANDONMENT
Flammable and combustible
liquid tanks 3404.2.13
ACCEPTANCE TESTING
Fire protection system installations . . 901.5, 904.4
Fire pumps 913.5.1
Flammable and combustible
liquid tanks 3404.2.12.1
Single- and multiple-station
smoke alarms 907.2.10.4
Smoke control systems 909.18
ACCESS, FIRE DEPARTMENT
Aviation facilities 1 103.4
Construction and demolition sites 1410.1
Doors for 504.2, 2305.4, 2306.6.1
Equipment, to 510
High-piled storage buildings 2306.6
Tire storage 2506
ACCESS ROADS, FIRE APPARATUS 503
Aviation facilities 1 103.4
Bridges 503.2.6
Building openings and roofs 504
Defined 502.1
High-piled storage 2306.6
Lumberyards 1903.6, 1909.3
Obstructions 503.4
Tents, canopies, membrane structures . . 2403.8.1
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS 1007
Defined 1002.1
Standby power 604.2.5, 604.2.6
ACETYLENE (see WELDING)
Gas 2605.4
Generators Table 911.1, 2605.5, 2608
ADDRESS NUMBER
(see PREMISES IDENTIFICATION)
ADMINISTRATION
Alternative methods and
materials 104.9, 501.4
Applicability 102
Approval 104.6.1, 401.2, 408.11.1.1,
603.1.2, 2207.2, 2208.2, 2401.2, 3406.4.7.1
Approved materials and equipment 104.7
Board of appeal 1 08.1
Emergencies 104.1 1
General 101
Inspections 104.6.2, 106
Maintenance 107
Permits 104.2, 105
Right of entry 1 04.3
Unsafe buildings 110
Violations 1 09
AEROSOL CONTAINER
Defined 2802.1
AEROSOL WAREHOUSE
Defined 2802.1
AEROSOLS Chapter 28
Classification levels 2803.1
Classification of products Table 2803.1
Defined 2802.1
Inside storage 2804
Manufacturing facilities 2807
Nonsegregated storage 2804.3.1,
Table 2804.3.1
Outside storage 2805
Permit required 105.6.1
Retail display 2806
Segregated storage 2804.3.2, Table 2804.3.2
AGENT
Defined 202
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS 2903.4, 3701 .1
AIR-SUPPORTED STRUCTURES (see TENT)
Defined 2402.1
AIRCRAFT
Defueling 1106.5, 1106.18
Fueling 1106
Maintenance 1 1 04
AIRCRAFT OPERATION AREA (AOA)
Defined 1102.1
AIRCRAFT-RELATED OCCUPANCIES,
FIRE PROTECTION FOR 914.8
AIRPORT
Defined 1102.1
AIRPORT TRAFFIC CONTROL
TOWERS .... 604.2.18, 907.2.12, 907.2.22, 914.8.1
AISLE ACCESSWAY Table 1025.19.1
Defined 1002.1
AISLE(S) , 308.3.4, 1014.4
Assembly 1 025.9
Cross. 1025.14.1
Defined 1002.1
Fixed seating 1004.7
Hazardous materials 2703.11.3.9
High-piled combustible storage . . . 2305.4, 2306.9
Obstruction of 1028.3, 1028.5
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
411
INDEX
Tables and seating. . 1014.4.3
Tents 2403.12.5
Termination 1025.9.5
Travel distance 1025.7
Walking surface 1025.1
Width Table 1025.6.2, 1025.6.3,
1025.9.1, 1025.9.2,
1027.20,2306.9.1,3604.1.2
ALARM 903.4.2,907.2.11.1, 1505.9.3,
1803.13.2.1,3704.2.2.10.1
Activations 401 .3.2
Audible 907.10.2, Table 907.10.1.3
Coded signals 408.6.2
Signals 903.4.1, 1803.12.3
Testing 904.4.2, 901 .5, 901 .6
Visible 907.10.1
Warning signs 904.3.4
ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE
Defined 902.1
ALARM, NUISANCE
Defined 902.1
ALARM SIGNAL
Defined 902.1
ALARM, SMOKE
Defined 902.1
ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE
^DefifiedTTT: 7777902.1
ALCOHOL-BASED HAND RUB 2701.1, 3405.5
Defined 3402.1
ALTERATION
Defined 202
ALTERNATING TREAD DEVICE 1009.10
Defined 1002.1
ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-
EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS 904
ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS AND METHODS . . 104.9
AMMONIA
Diffusion systems 606.12.6
Refrigerant 606.12.3
AMMONIUM NITRATE 3301.1.5
Defined 3302.1
AMMUNITION, SMALL ARMS ^ . . 3306
Defined 7777777 .3302.1
Storage and handling . . 105.6.14, 3301.2.1,-3304
AMUSEMENT BUILDINGS (see SPECIAL
AMUSEMENT BUILDING)
AMUSEMENT PARK
" BUILDINGS 202 (Assembly, Group A-5)
ANNUNCIATOR
Defined 902.1
APPEALS, BOARD OF 108
APPLIANCES 605.7
Chimneys 603.6
Commercial kitchen hoods 609
Cooking 3405.3.3
Fuel-fired 603
Heat producing 2201 .6
Heating 603.5, 605.10, 3405.3.3
Lighting 3405.3.3
Unsafe 603.7
APPENDICES 101.2.1
APPLICABILITY (of the code) 102
APPROVED
Defined 202
ARC WELDING
(see WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK)
[B] AREA OF REFUGE 1007.6
Defined 1002.1
ARRAY
Defined 2302.1
ARRAY, CLOSED
Defined 2302.1
ASH TRAYS 310.6
ASHES, HOT 305.2
ASPHALT (TAR) KETTLES 303, 1417.2
ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES (GROUP A)
Aisles 1 025
Announcements 408.2.2
Automatic sprinklers 903.2
Candles 308
Cellulose nitrate film 105.6.5, 306
Decorative materials 806, 807
Defined 202 (Occupancy classification)
Doors 1 008
Egress Chapter 1
Emergency evacuation drill 405
Emergency power .-. 604.2.1
Employee training 406
Evacuation plans 404
Fire alarm systems 907
Fire safety plans 404
Furnishings 807.4.2
Interior finish 803
._ LP-gas installations Chapter 38
Motion picture projection rooms 306.1
Obstruction of exits 1028.3
Open-flame devices 308.3.7
Open-flames 308.3
Panic hardware 1008.1.9
Permits required 105.6.34
Permits required 105.6.35
Portable fire extinguishers 906
Posting maximum occupant load 1004.3
412
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
INDEX
Prohibit smoking 310
Pyroxylin-coated fabric 805.4
Pyroxylin plastic motion -
picture film storage 306.1
Seating 1025
Seating plan 408.2.1
Standpipe systems 905
Storage, flammable liquids 3404.3.4.2
Tents Chapter 24
Vehicles in 2404.18.4
ATRIUM FIRE PROTECTION 907.2.13, 914.4
ATTIC STORAGE 315.2.4
AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE
Defined 902.1
AUTOMATIC
Defined 902.1
AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM
(see FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS
Early Suppression Fast
Response (ESFR) 2302.1 (Defined)
Table 2306.2, Table 2308.3, 2304.4.3
Obstructions to discharge 315.2.1, 903.3.3
Quick response (QR) and
residential 903.3.2, 906.1 ,
Table 3404.3.6.3(5)
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER
SYSTEM 1208.2, 1414,
1803.10, 1904.3,2306.4,
2309.2,4004.1.4
Aerosol warehouses 2804.4.1
Alarms 903.4.2, 1803.10.5
Basements 903.2.10.1 .3
Defined 902.1
Dip tank operations 1505.4
Gas rooms 2703.8.4.1
Group A 903.2.1
Group E 903.2.2
Group F-1 903.2.3
Group H 903.2.4
Group 1 903.2.5
Group M 903.2.6
Group R 903.2.7
Group 8-1 903.2.8
Group 8-2 903.2.9
High-piled storage. 903.2.6.1
Hose threads 903.3.6
Installation requirements 903.3
Limited area 903.3.5.1.1
Monitoring 903.4
NFPA 13 sprinkler systems 903.3.1.1
NFPA 13D sprinkler systems 903.3.1.3
NFPA 13R sprinkler systems 903.3.1.2
Pyroxylin plastics 903.2.4.3, 903.6.1
Repair garages 903.2.8.1
Rubbish and linen chutes 903.2.10.2
Spray rooms 1 504.4
Water supplies 903.3.5
Windowless stories 903.2.10.1
Woodworking operations 903.2.3.1
Zones 907.9
AUTOMOBILE UNDERCOATING
(see SPRAY FINISHING)
AUTOMOTIVE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY Chapter 22
Defined 2202.1
AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL 907.10.2
Defined 902.1
AVIATION FACILITIES Chapter 1 1
(see also AIRCRAFT-RELATED OCCUPANCIES)
Cleaning parts 11 04.3
Combustible storage 1 103.6
Dispensing hoses and nozzles 1106.3.3
Dispensing of flammable and
combustible liquids 1 103.5
Fueling and defueling 1 106.5
Radar equipment 1 106.21-
B —
BACKFLOW PREVENTION 903.3.5, 912.5
BALCONIES 308.3.1,903.3.1.2.1, 1016.3
BARRICADE
Defined 3302.1
Fire apparatus access road 503.5, 503.5.1
Placement at fire scene 104.11.1
BARRICADED
Defined 3302.1
BATTERY CHARGING (see POWERED INDUSTRIAL
TRUCKS)
BATTERY SYSTEMS, STATIONARY LEAD-ACID
Defined 602.1
BATTERY SYSTEMS,
STATIONARY STORAGE 608
Permit 105.6.5
Room design 608.3
Signs 608.6
Ventilation 608.5
BATTERY TYPES— Defined
Nickel cadmium 602.1
Nonrecombinant 602.1
Recombinant 602.1
Stationary storage 602.1
Valve-regulated lead acid 602.1
Vented (flooded) lead-acid 602.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
413
INDEX
BIN BOX
Defined 2302.1
BLAST AREA
Defined 3302.1
BLAST SITE
Defined 3302.1
BLASTER
Defined 3302.1
BLASTING AGENT (see also EXPLOSIVES)
Defined 3302.1
BLEACHERS
Defined 1002.1
BOILING POINT
Defined 2702.1
BOND
For explosives 3301 .2.4.1
For fireworks display 3301 .2.4.2
BONDING AND GROUNDING .... 1204.2.4, 1206.3.4
Aircraft fueling 1106.3.7.1, 1106.5.2
CNG Motor fuel-dispensing
facilities 2208.8.1 .2.4
Cryogenic fluids 3203.7.2
Organic coating 2004.3
Piping, valves and fittings 3406.4.7.6
Powdered coating 1506.6.4
Roll-coating operations 1505.1 1
Underground tanks 3406.6.1 .8
Vessels 3405.3.2
BONFIRES 307.4.1
Defined 302.1
Permit 105.6.30, 307.2
BREATHING APPARATUS 1703.3.2
BRIDGES (see ACCESS ROADS, FIRE APPARATUS)
BRITISH THERMAL UNIT (BTU)
Defined 202
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS .... Chapter 6
BUILDINGS
Unsafe 110
Vacant (see Vacant premises)
BULK OXYGEN SYSTEM Chapter 40
Defined 4002.1
BULK PLANT OR TERMINAL 3406.4
Defined 3402.1
BULK TRANSFER 3406.5
Defined 3402.1
BULLET RESISTANT
Defined 3302.1
BURNING (see OPEN BURNING)
BUTANE (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
BUTYLENE (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
CABINETS 905.7, 906.8, 1105.7.1, 3705.3.1
CABINETS, GAS 1803.3.5, 1803.10.2,
1803.13.1.3, 2703.8.6, 3006.2.3,
3704.1.2,4106.2.2,4106.4.1
CANDLES 105.6.32, 308, 806.3
CANOPY
Defined 2402.1
CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM
Commercial cooking systems 904.1 1
Defined 902.1
CARNIVALS 105.6.4, 2403.3
CARTON
Combustible 2806.5
Defined 202
CEILING LIMIT
Defined 2702.1
CELLULOSE NITRATE MOTION
PICTURE FILM 306
CELLULOSE NITRATE PLASTICS
[see PYROXYLIN (CELLULOSE NITRATE)
PLASTICS]
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY 102.3
Defined 202
CHANGE OF USE 102.3
CHEMICAL
Defined 2702.1
CHEMICAL NAME
Defined 2702.1
CHIMNEYS 603.2, 603.6
Factory-built 603.6.4
Masonry 603.6.1
Metal 603.6.2
CHRISTMAS TREE (see DECORATIVE
VEGETATION)
CHUTES, RUBBISH AND LINEN 903.2.10.2
CLASSIFICATION
Commodity 2303
Dry cleaning plants and systems 1203.2
Dry cleaning solvent or liquid 1202.1 , 1203.1
Flammable and combustible liquids 3402.1
Hazardous materials 2701 .2
Occupancy 202
Refrigerant 606.3
CLEAN AGENT
Defined 902.1
CLEANING
Flammable liquids 1 104.3
414
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
INDEX
Grease 904.1 1 .6.3
Powder coating 1506.5.1
Repair garages 221 1 .2.1
Tanks 3406.7.2
Tire rebuilding buffing areas 2503.3
CLEARANCE
Storage to ceiling or
sprinklers 315.2.1, 903.3.3, 3404.3.5.3
CLOSED CONTAINER 3205.5.2
Defined 2702.1
CLOSED SYSTEM 3405.3.7.6
Defined 202
CNG MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES. . 2208
COLD DECK 1906.2
Defined 1902.1
COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY
BUILDINGS, GROUP R-2 404.2,
Table 405.2, 408.3
COMBUSTIBLE DUST
Defined 1302.1
COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING
OPERATIONS Chapter 13
Permit 105.6.6
COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS Chapter 29
Defined 2902.1
General precautions 2903
Permit 105.6.7
Portable fire extinguishers 2903.6
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID. . . 2206, 2404.17, Chapter 34
Classified locations 3403.1 .2
Defined 3402.1
Dispensing, use, mixing and
handling 3405.3, 3405.3.8
Heated 3401.5
Indoor storage 3404.3.3
Mixtures 3401 .5
Outdoor storage 3404.4
Permit 105.6.16
Portable fire extinguisher 3406.2.7
Special operations 3406
Tank storage 3404.2
Waste control 3406.3.3
Wholesale and resale use 3404.3.6
COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE 315
COMBUSTIBLE WASTE MATERIAL 304, 1605
Containers 304.3
Storage 304.2
COMMERCIAL COOKING APPLIANCES
Defined 602.1
COMMERCIAL KITCHEN HOODS 609
COMMODITY
Classifications 2303
Defined 2302.1
COMMON PATH OF
EGRESS TRAVEL 1014.3,
1025.8, Table 1027.17.2
Defined 1002.1
COMPRESSED GAS Chapter 30
Containers, cylinders, tanks 3003.1
Defined 3002.1
Medical gas 3006
Requirements 3003
Storage 3004
Use and handling 3005
Wiring 3003.6
COMPRESSED GAS CONTAINER
Defined 3002.1
COMPRESSED GAS SYSTEM
Defined 3002.1
Motor fuel-dispensing facilities 2208
COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) 3001 .1
CONFLICTING PROVISIONS 102.9
CONSTANTLY ATTENDED
LOCATION 903.4.1, 907.2.7.1,
907.2.8.3, 907.2.11.1, 907.2.18.2,
907.2.23, 907.11, 907.12, 909.20.3,
913.4,3404.2.8.11
Defined 902.1
CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
FIRE SAFETY Chapter 14
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS 105.4
Defined 202
CONTAINER
Defined 2702.1
CONTAINER AND PORTABLE TANK
STORAGE 3404.3,
Table 3404.3.6.3(4), 3404.4, Table 3404.4.2
CONTAINMENT PALLETS
Flammable and combustible liquids .... 3404.4.3
Hazardous materials 2704.2.3
CONTAINMENT SYSTEM
Defined 3702.1
CONTAINMENT VESSEL
Defined 3702.1
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM
(see GAS DETECTION SYSTEM, CONTINUOUS)
CONTROL AREAS 2703.8.3
Defined 2702.1
COOKING
Appliances, commercial, defined 602.1
On balconies 308.3.1
Commercial, fire extinguishing systems . . . 904.1 1
Commercial, hoods 609
Commercial, portable
fire extinguishers 904.1 1.5
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
415
INDEX
Devices, LP-gas fired, on balconies .... 308.3.1.1
Devices, open-flame 308.3.1
CORRIDOR 1017
Defined 1002.1
CORROSION PROTECTION
Cryogenic fluids 3205.1 .2.5
Foundations 3203.1 .3.2
General 3403.6.5
Tanks and piping 3404.2.7.9, 3406.7.1
CORROSIVE
Defined 3102.1
CORROSIVE MATERIALS
Indoor storage 3104.1
Indoor use 3105.1
Outdoor storage 3104.2
Outdoor use 3105.2
Requirements 3103
COTTON, BALED Table 2703.1.1(1), 2905
Defined 2902.1
COTTON, DENSELY PACKED BALED
Defined 2902.1
COTTON, SEED 2903.4
Defined 2902.1
COVERED MALL BUILDINGS
Automatic sprinkler system 914.2.1
Emergency planning 408.1 1
Emergency voice/alarm
communication system 907.2.20, 914.2.3
Permit 105.6.9
Standby power systems 604.2.14
Standpipe system 905.3.3, 914.2.2
CROP-RIPENING AND COLORING PROCESSES
(see FRUIT AND CROP RIPENING)
CRYOGENIC CONTAINER
Defined 3202.1
Handling 3205.5
Marking 3203.4
Security 3203.5
CRYOGENIC FLUIDS Chapter 32
Containers 3203.1
Defined 3202.1
Filling 3205.4
Indoor storage 3204.2
Indoor use 3205.2
Outdoor storage 3204.3
Outdoor use 3205.3
Permit 105.6.10
Requirements 3203
Underground storage tanks 3204.4, 3204.5
CRYOGENIC VESSEL
Defined 3202.1
CYLINDER
Defined 2702.1
DANGER, IMMINENT 110.2
DAY BOX 3302.1 (Magazine, Type 3)
Defined 2702.1
DECORATIONS 805
Exit obstruction 1028.5
DECORATIVE MATERIALS 807
Defined 202
DECORATIVE VEGETATION 806
DEFLAGRATION
Defined 2702.1
DELAYED EGRESS LOCKS .... 907.2.15, 1008.1.8.6
DELUGE SYSTEM
Defined 902.1
DEMOLITION OF BUILDINGS
FIRE SAFETY Chapter 14
DESIGN PRESSURE
Defined 2702.1
DETACHED BUILDING
Defined 2702.1
Group H occupancies 2703.8.2
Storage 3904.1 .1 , 4004.1 .1 , Table 4004.1 .2
DETEARING
Defined 1502.1
DETECTOR, HEAT
Defined 902.1
DETONATING CORD
Defined 3302.1
DETONATION
Defined 3302.1
DETONATOR
Defined 3302.1
DIP TANK 1505
Defined 1502.1
DIPPING OPERATIONS 1505
DISCHARGE, EXIT (see EXIT DISCHARGE)
DISCHARGE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
(see RELEASE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL)
DISCHARGE SITE
Defined 3302.1
DISPENSING
Defined 2702.1
Fire extinguishers 2205.5
416
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
INDEX
Location 2203.1
Motor fuel-dispensing operations 2204
Requirements 2205, 2705
DISPENSING DEVICE, OVERHEAD-TYPE
Defined 2202.1
DISPLAY SITE
Defined 3302.1
DISPLAYS
Aerosol products 2806
Cellulose nitrate
(pyroxylin) plastic 314.3, 4203.1
Fireworks 3308
Group M 2703.11,3306.5
Indoor 314
Motor vehicles 314.4, 2404.18
Retail 2701 .4, 2806, 3301 .2.2, 3308.1 1
Storage 2703.1 1 .3
DOOR, BALANCED
Defined 1002.1
DOORS, EXIT 1008
DORMITORIES (see OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
GROUP R-2 and COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY
BUILDINGS)
DRAFT CURTAIN
Construction, design and
Installation 910.3, 2306.2
Defined 2302.1
DRAINAGE CONTROL 2003.10,
2005.3, 2704.2.2.6,
3405.3.8.1, 3406.2.6, 3406.4.9
DRAINS
Dip-tank bottom 1505.3.2
Exhaust duct sprinkler system 1803.10.4.4.3
HPM liquids 1805.2.2.2
Magazines 3304.6.1
Outdoor cryogenic fluid storage
containers 3204.3.1 .3
Portable containers 3204.3.2.2
DRAPERIES 807.1, 1028.5
DRILLING, WELL . 3406.3
DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT
Defined 902.1
DRY CLEANING Chapter 12
Classifications 1203.1
Defined 1202.1
Requirements, general 1204
Requirements, operating 1205
Solvent or liquid classifications 1202.1
Spotting and pretreating 1206
Systems 1207
DRY CLEANING PLANT
Defined 1202.1
DRY CLEANING ROOM
Defined 1202.1
DRY CLEANING SYSTEM
Defined 1202.1
DRYING APPARATUS 1504.6.1.2
DRYING OVENS (see INDUSTRIAL OVENS)
DRYING ROOMS 914.10
DUCT SMOKE DETECTORS 907.12
DUMPSTERS 304.3.3
DUST COLLECTION 2903.5, 3606.5.3
DUST EXPLOSION HAZARDS Chapter 13
Explosion venting 1903.2.1
DWELLING UNIT
Defined 202
E
EARLY SUPPRESSION
FAST-RESPONSE SPRINKLER (ESFR)
(see AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS)
EGRESS (see MEANS OF EGRESS)
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT 605
Aviation facilities 1106.14
Dust producing machines 3606.5.5
Signs 609.8
Workstations in HPM facilities 1803.7.2
ELECTROSTATIC APPARATUS 1507
ELECTROSTATIC FLUIDIZED BED
Defined 1502.1
ELEVATOR RECALL 607
EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEM 908
Defined 902.1
EMERGENCY CONTROL STATION 1803.1
Defined 1802.1
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE
OPENING 1026
Defined 1002.1
EMERGENCY EVACUATION DRILL 405
Defined 402.1
Frequency 408.5.4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND
PREPAREDNESS Chapter 4
EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEMS 604
EMERGENCY RELIEF VENTING 2206.6.2.5,
3404.2.7.4
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
417
INDEX
EMERGENCY
SHUTOFF VALVE 2207.5.1,2703.2.2.1,
3203.4.6, 3205.3.2, 3503.1.3,
4003.1.2,4103.1.1
Defined 202
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE,
AUTOMATIC 2205.2.2, 2206.7.4
Defined 202
EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE, MANUAL
Defined 202
EMERGENCY VOICE/ALARM COMMUNICATIONS
Defined 902.1
High-rise building 907.2.12.2
Special amusement buildings 907.2.11.3
EMPLOYEE TRAINING 406
ENTRY, RIGHT OF 104.3
EQUIPMENT, FUELED 312
ESCAPE OPENINGS 1026
ESFR SPRINKLERS
(see AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS)
ETHYLENE
Gas 1 603
Generators 1606
EVACUATION 1 10.2
EVACUATION DRILLS 405
Frequency 405.2, Table 405.2
Notification 405.6
Recall and reentry 405.9
EVACUATION PLANS 404
EXCESS FLOW CONTROL
Defined 2702.1
EXCESS FLOW VALVE
Defined 3702.1
EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE 2703.8.5
Defined 2702.1
EXISTING
Defined 202
EXIT 1018
Defined 1002.1
Enclosure 1020
Horizontal 1022
Number required 1019
Passageways 1 021
EXIT ACCESS 1014
Defined 1002.1
EXIT AND EXIT ACCESS DOORS 1008, 1015
EXIT DISCHARGE 1024
Defined 1002.1
EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OF
Defined 1002.1
EXIT ENCLOSURE 1020
Defined 1002.1
EXIT, HORIZONTAL 1022
Defined 1002.1
EXIT PASSAGEWAY 1021
Defined 1002.1
EXPANDED PLASTIC
Defined 2302.1
EXPLOSION
Defined 2702.1
EXPLOSION CONTROL 911, 2005.4, 2704.6,
2705.2.1.2, 2705.2.2.3, 3404.2.5,
3405.3.7.5.2, 3405.3.7.6.2, 3504.1.1,
3904.1.10, 4004.1.3, 4304.1.2, 4404.1.6
EXPLOSIVE MATERIAL 1407, Chapter 33
Defined 3302.1
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS Chapter 33
Defined 3302.1
EXTENSION CORDS 605.5
EXTINGUISHERS
(see FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, PORTABLE)
EXTRA-HIGH-RACK COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
Approval 2308.5
Defined 2302.1
Fire protection 2308.5.1
FABRICATION AREA 1805.2
Defined 1802.1
Construction 1803.3.1
Electrical wiring and equipment 1803.7.1
Existing 1801.4
Gas detection 1803.13.1.1
Storage 1 804.2
FACILITY
Defined 202
FAIL-SAFE 2703.2.2.1, 3704.2.2.3
Defined 202
FAIRS 105.6.4
FALLOUT AREA
Defined 3302.1
FALSE ALARM
Defined 202
FILM, CELLULOSE NITRATE MOTION
PICTURE 306
Projection rooms 306.1
Storage 306.2
FINES (in woodworking operations)
(see also VIOLATION PENALTIES)
Defined (in woodworking operations) 1902.1
Storage and processing (in woodworking
operations 1 908
418
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
INDEX
FINISHED PRODUCTS 2009.6
FIRE ALARM
Defined 202
Permit 105.7.4
Reporting 1409
FIRE ALARM BOX (see MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX)
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT
Defined 902.1
FIRE ALARM SIGNAL
Defined 902.1
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
Annunciation 907.1 .1
Defined 902.1
Existing buildings 907.3
IViaintenance 907.20.1, 907.20.5
IVIonitoring 907.1 5
Notification appliances 907.10
Out of service 901 .7
Power supply 907.5
Presignal system 907.8
Telephone dialing devices 907.16
Testing 907.2.10.4, 907.20.2, 907.20.5
Winere required, new building 907.2
Zones 907.9
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD 503
Defined 502.1
Gates and barricades 503.5, 503.6
Obstructions 503.4
FIRE AREA
Defined 902.1
FIRE CHIEF
Authority at fires and
other emergencies 104.1 1
Defined 202
FIRE CODE OFFICIAL
Defined 202
FIRE COMMAND CENTER . 509
Defined 502.1
FIRE DEPARTMENT
COMMUNICATION SYSTEM 907.2.12.3
FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS . . . 903.3.7, 912
FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY
Defined 502.1
FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS. ... 104.11, 401.4
FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC
Defined 902.1
FIRE DOOR ASSEMBLY
Defined 202
FIRE DRILL (see EMERGENCY EVACUATION
DRILL)
FIRE EQUIPMENT, TAMPERING WITH 901.8
FIRE ESCAPE STAIRS 1027.16
FIRE EXIT HARDWARE
Defined 1002.1
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, PORTABLE 906
Asphalt kettles 303.5
Aviation facilities 1 105
Buildings under construction or
demolition 1415
Commercial cooking equipment 904.11.5
Dry cleaning plants 1208.4
Flammable finishes 1504.4.1,
1505.4.2, 1506.4.2
Lumber yards 1904.2, 1908.8
FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS,
ALTERNATIVE 904
Commercial cooking 904.1 1
Fire alarm system interconnection 907.14
Flammable and combustible
liquids 3404.3.7.5.1 , 3404.3.8.4
Flammable finishing 1504.4,
1505.4.1, 1506.4, 1507.4
Hazardous materials 2705.1 .8
Permit 105.7.1
Required 904.2
FIRE FIGHTERS
Hazards to 507
Pitfalls 507.3
Safety 101.3
FIRE FLOW REQUIREMENTS 508.3
FIRE HYDRANT
Obstruction 508.5.4
Permit 105.6.15, 105.6.35, 105.7.10
Tampering 901 .8
Testing 508.5.2, 901 .5
FIRE INVESTIGATIONS 104.10
FIRE LANE
Defined 502.1
FIRE PARTITION
Defined 202
FIRE POINT
Defined 3402.1
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM Chapter 9
Defined 902.1
Nonrequired 901 .4.2
Out of service 901 .7
Owner's responsibility during
construction or demolition 1408
Permit 105.7.1, 105.7.4, 105.7.5, 105.7.12
FIRE PUMPS 105.7.5, 913
FIRE RECORDS 104.6.3
FIRE, RECREATIONAL (see RECREATIONAL FIRE)
FIRE, REPORTING OF UNWANTED 401.3, 1409
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION ... 703
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
419
INDEX
FIRE RETARDANT COATINGS 803.4
FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION
AND DEMOLITION Chapter 14
FIRE SAFETY FUNCTIONS 907.1 1
Defined 902.1
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES Chapter 5
FIRE, UNWANTED (see UNWANTED FIRE)
FIRE WATCH
Construction/demolition sites 1404.5
Defined 202
Fire protection impairments 901.7
Hot work 2604.2
FIREWORKS (see EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS)
Defined 3302.1
Prohibited 3301 .1 .3
Retail display and sale 3308.1 1
FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Damage from 3301 .2.4.2
Defined 3302.1
FLAME RETARDANT
(see also FIRE RETARDANT COATINGS)
Tents, air-supported, air-inflated and
tensioned membrane structures 2404.2
FLAMING FOODS AND BEVERAGES 308.6
FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUID
Defined 3202.1
FLAMMABLE FINISHES 914.7, Chapter 15
Defined 1502.1
Dipping operations 1505
Electrostatic apparatus 1 507
Floor surfacing 1510
Powder coating 1506
Protection of operations 1503
Spray finishing 1504
Ventilation 1504.7, 1505.7,
1506.7, 1507.7, 1509.6, 1510.5
FLAMMABLE GAS Chapter 35
Defined 3502.1
Requirements 3503
Storage 1406.1 , 3504
Use 1406.1,3505
FLAMMABLE LIQUEFIED GAS
Defined 3502.1
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS Chapter 34
Buildings under construction or demolition . , 1405
Classified locations 3403.1 .1
Defined 3402.1
Dispensing, use, mixing and
handling 3405.3, 3405.3.8
In construction and demolition operations. . . 1405
Indoor storage 3404.3.3
Labeling and signage 3403.5
Motor fuel 2206
Outdoor storage 3404.4
Portable fire extinguisher 3406.2.7
Special operations 3406
Tank storage 3404.2
Tents, air-supported, air-inflated and
tensioned membrane structures 2404.17
Waste control 3406.3.3
Wholesale and resale use 3404.3.6
FLAMMABLE MATERIAL
Defined 202
FLAMMABLE SOLID Chapter 36
Defined 3602.1
Indoor storage 3604.1
Magnesium 3606
Outdoor storage 3606
Requirements 3603
Use 3605
FLAMMABLE VAPOR AREA
Alarms 1504.8.1.1
Defined 1502.1
Electrical equipment 1503.2.1
Ignition sources 1503.2
Ventilation 1504.7, 1505.7
Warning signs 1503.2.7
FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES
Defined 2702.1
FLASH POINT
Defined 3402.1
FLEET VEHICLE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY
Defined 2201.2
Tanks 2206.2.4.2
FLEXIBLE JOINTS 2206.7.9.1.4, 3403.6.9
FLOOR AREA, GROSS
Defined 1002.1
FLOOR AREA, NET
Defined 1002.1
FLOOR OPENINGS 704
FLUIDIZED BED
Defined 1502.1
FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS 904.7
Defined 902.1
FOAM PLASTICS 803.7, 804.2, 807.4.2.1, 808.2
FOGGING, THERMAL INSECTICIDAL (see
FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL
FOGGING)
FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC SEATING
Defined 1002.1
FRUIT AND CROP RIPENING Chapter 16
Ethylene gas 1 603
Heating 1 604.5
420
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
INDEX
Permit 105.6.18
Sources of ignition 1604
Warning signs 1607
FUEL-FIRED APPLIANCES 603
Chimneys 603.2, 603.6
Heating 603.5
Installation 603.1
FUEL LIMIT SWITCH
Defined 3402.1
FUEL OIL STORAGE 603.3
FUMIGANT
Defined 1702.1
FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL
FOGGING Chapter 17
Breathing apparatus 1703.3.2
Clean up 1703.6
Defined 1702.1
Fire safety requirements 1703
Notification 1 703.3
Permit 105.6.19
Sealing of buildings 1703.5
Warning signs 1703.3.1
Watch personnel 1703.3.3
FURNACE CLASS A
Defined 2102.1
FURNACE CLASS B
Defined 2102.1
FURNACE CLASS C
Defined 2102.1
FURNACE CLASS D
Defined 2102.1
FURNISHINGS 808
FURNITURE, UPHOLSTERED 805
FUSIBLE LINKS 703.2, 904.5.2,
904.6.2,904.11.6.5
G
GARAGE (see REPAIR GARAGE)
GARAGING 3811
LPG tank vehicles 381 1 .3
Tank vehicles for flammable and combustible
liquids 3406.6.3
GAS CABINET 2703.8.6, 3003.7.10,
3006.2.3, 3704.1.2, 4106.2.2, 4106.4.1
Defined 2702.1
GAS DETECTION SYSTEM, CONTINUOUS
Defined 1802.1
Emergency alarm system 908
HPM gases 1803.13
Ozone gas 3705.3.2
GAS METERS 603.9
GAS- OR LIQUID-FUELED
VEHICLES 314.4, 2404.18
Permit 105.6.26
GAS ROOM 2703.8.4, 3704.2.2.6
Defined 2702.1
GATES, FIRE APPARATUS ROAD 503.5, 503.6
GATES, MEANS OF EGRESS 1008.2
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
AGAINST FIRE Chapter 3
GENERATORS
Acetylene 2608
Ethylene 1606
Portable 2608.2
Stationary 604.1 .1
GLASS-FIBER-REINFORCED PLASTICS
Manufacturing 1509
Storage 1 509.4
Ventilation 1 509.6
GRANDSTAND
Defined 1002.1
GUARD 1013
Defined 1002.1
H
HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM
Defined 902.1
HAND RUB, ALCOHOL-BASED
(see ALCOHOL-BASED HAND RUB)
HANDLING
Defined 2702.1
HANDRAIL 1012
Defined 1002.1
HANGARS, AIRCRAFT (see AIRCRAFT RELATED
OCCUPANCIES)
HANGERS, FIRE EXTINGUISHER 906.7
HARDENING TANKS 1505.9
HARDWARE, EXIT DOOR 1008.1.8
HARDWARE, PANIC 1008.1.9
HAY 2903.4
Combustible waste 304.1 .1
Storage 2404.5, 2903.4
HAZARD COMMUNICATION 407
Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement. . 407.5
Hazardous Materials Management Plan . . . 407.6
Training 407.4
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Defined 2702.1
Fire-extinguishing systems 2704.5, 2705.1.8
General Chapter 27
Identification signs 2703.5
Outdoor control areas 2703.12
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
421
INDEX
Permit 105.6.20
Personnel training 407.4
Power systems 604.2.10
Requirements 2703
Storage 2704
Use, dispensing and handling 2705
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY
STATEMENT 407.5, 2701 .5.2
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
PLAN 407.6, 2701.5.1
HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAL (HPM)
Defined 1802.1
HAZARDS TO FIRE FIGHTERS 507
HEALTH HAZARD
Defined 2702.1
HEAT VENTS (see SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS)
HEATERS, PORTABLE ELECTRIC SPACE . . . 605.10
HEATERS, PORTABLE UNVENTED 603.4
HEATING EQUIPMENT, TEMPORARY, DURING
CONSTRUCTION 1403
HELIPORT 1107
Defined 1102.1
Permit for rooftop heliport 105.6.40
HELISTOP 1107
Defined 1102.1
HI-BOY
Construction 303.7
Defined 302.1
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. . Chapter 23
Aisles 2306.9
Automated storage 2309
Automatic sprinklers 2306.4, 2309.2
Classifications, commodities 2303
Defined 2302.1
Fire protection 2306, Table 2306.2
Housekeeping 2305
HIGH-PILED STORAGE AREA
Defined 2302.1
Designations 2304
Permit 105.6.22
HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
Automatic sprinkler system . . 903.2.10.3, 914.3.1
Automatic sprinkler system,
floor control valves required 903.4.3
Automatic sprinkler system,
secondary water supply required .... 903.3.5.2
Emergency evacuation drills 405
Emergency voice/alarm
communications system . . . 907.2.12.2, 914.3.3
Fire alarm system 907.2.12, 914.3.2
Fire alarm system zoning 907.9.2
Fire command center 509.1, 914.3.5
Fire department
communications system . . . 907.2.12.3, 914.3.4
Fire safety and evacuation plans 404
Smokeproof exit stairway enclosures . . . 1020.1.7
Standby power system 604.2.15
Standpipe system 905.3.1
HIGHLY TOXIC Chapter 37
Compressed gases 3704
Defined 3702.1
Indoor storage and use 3703.1
Outdoor storage and use 3703.2.5
Solids and liquids 3703
HIGHWAY
Defined 3302.1
HISTORIC BUILDINGS 102.5
HOGGED MATERIALS 1907, 1908
Defined 1902.1
HOOD.. . 609
Defined 602.1
HOSE 2207.5.2, 2210.3.3
Aircraft fueling 1 106
Conductive 1 106.5.2.1
Connections for standpipes .... 905.3.4.1, 905.4,
905.5, 905.6
Dispensing 1106.3.3, 2206.7.5
Protection 1106.7, 3406.6.1.11
System 904.8.4, 904.9.3, 904.10.3
Threads 903.3.6
HOT WORK (see WELDING AND OTHER HOT
WORK)
Defined 2602.1
Permit 105.6.23
HOT WORK AREA
Defined 2602.1
HOT WORK EQUIPMENT
Defined 2602.1
HOT WORK PERMITS
Defined 2602.1
HOT WORK PROGRAM
Defined 2602.1
HPM FACILITY
(see SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITY)
HPM FLAMMABLE LIQUID
Defined 1802.1
HPM ROOM
Defined 1802.1
HYDRANTS (see FIRE HYDRANT)
HYDROGEN 3201.1,3501.1
HYDROGEN MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITIES 2209
•
422
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*^
INDEX
•
I
IGNITION SOURCES 305
IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND HEALTH
(IDLH)
Defined 2702.1
IMPACT PROTECTION, VEHICLE 312
IMPAIRMENT COORDINATOR 901.7.1
Defined 902.1
INCINERATORS 603.8
Room egress 1015.3
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS 2703.9.8,
2703.10.3.6, 2703.11.3.7, 2704.2.2.2, 2704.4,
2705.1.1, 3003.7.1, 3404.2.6, 3404.3.3.2
Defined 2702.1
INDUSTRIAL OVENS Chapter 21
Fire protection 2106
Fuel piping 21 04
Interlocks 21 05
Location 21 03
Operation and maintenance 2107
INHABITED BUILDING
Defined 3302.1
INITIATING DEVICE
Defined 902.1
INSECTICIDAL FOGGING (see FUMIGATION AND
THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING)
INSPECTION . . . 104.6.2, 105.2.2, 106, 107.2.1, 901.6
Emergency and standby power
system 604.3.1, 604.4
Fire department connections 912.6
Fire hydrant 508.5.2
Fireworks display 3308.5.3, 3308.9
Hose 2609.7
Magazines 3304.9
Masonry chimneys 603.6.1
Tents 2403.7
INSTITUTIONAL OCCUPANCIES
Defined 202
INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING
FINISH AND TRIM 803, 804
IRRITANT
Defined 202
ISO-BUTANE (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
INVESTIGATIONS, FIRE 104.10
K
KETTLES (see ORGANIC COATINGS OR ASPHALT)
KEY BOX 506
Defined 502.1
Maintenance 506.2
Required 506.1
L
LABELED
Defined 202
LADDERS 1015.3, 1015.4,
1015.6.1, 1019.1.2, 1026.5,
1027.16.6,3404.1.8.15
LEAD-ACID BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY
(see BATTERY SYSTEMS, STATIONARY
STORAGE)
LEAD-ACID BATTERY SYSTEM,
VALVE-REGULATED
(see BATTERY SYSTEMS, STATIONARY
STORAGE)
LEAKS
Compressed gases 3003.12
Cryogenic fluids 3203.10
Explosive materials 3304.10
Flammable and
combustible liquids 1106.11.1, 1405.6,
2205.2.3,2206.7.7.1,
3403.3, 3403.6.3.1,3404.2.7.10,
3404.2.11.5,3406.6.1.1
Highly toxic and toxic materials 3704.2.2.3,
3704.2.2.4, 3704.3.2.2
LIABILITY 103.4
LIMITED SPRAYING SPACE
Defined 1502.1
LINEN CHUTES 903.2.10.2
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG)
Defined 2202.1
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
(LP-gas) Chapter 38
Containers not in service 3810
Cooking devices 308.3.1 .1
Defined 3802.1
Dispensing and overfilling 3806
Fire protection 3808
Installation of equipment 3803
Location of containers 3804, Table 3804.3
Motor fuel-dispensing facilities 2207
Parking and garaging 381 1
Prohibited use 3805
Storage 3809
LIQUID
Defined 2702.1
LIQUID- OR GAS-
FUELED VEHICLES 314.4, 2404.18
Permit 105.6.26
LIQUID STORAGE ROOM
Defined 3402.1
LIQUID STORAGE WAREHOUSE 3404.3.8
Defined 3402.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
423
INDEX
LISTED
Defined 202
LOADING RACKS 3406.3.8, 3406.5.1 .12
LONGITUDINAL FLUE SPACE
Defined 2302.1
LOW-PRESSURE TANK
Defined 3202.1
LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (LEL)
Defined 2702.1
LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL)
Defined 2702.1
LP-GAS (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
LUMBER YARDS AND WOODWORKING
FACILITIES Chapter 19
Access plan 1 903.7
Emergency plan 1908.10
Fire alarms 1904.1
Fire protection 1904
General 1903
Log storage areas 1 906
Open yards 1903.1
Permit 105.6.25
Size of piles 1907.2, 1908.3
Waste removal 1903.3
M
MAGAZINE
Defined 3302.1
MAGNESIUM
Defined 3602.1
Storage 3606.2, 3606.3, 3606.4
Use 3606.5
MANIFOLDS
Cylinders 2609.4
Identification 2609.5
Piping 2609
MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX 907.4
Defined 902.1
MANUAL STOCKING METHODS
Defined 2302.1
MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC
COATINGS Chapter 20
MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY 2210
Defined 2201.2
Fire protection 2210.6
Fueling 2210.4
General 2210.1
Nozzles 2210.3.3
MARKING
(see also PLACARDS, PLACARDING) 503.3,
909.14,2703.5.1
Compressed gas 3003.2
Cryogenic containers 3203.4
Shaftway 507.2
Tank 3406.2.2
Treads 1024.11.3
Warnings 2703.8.7.2
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET (MSDS) . . . 2703.4
Aerosols 2801 .3
Defined 2702.1
H Ml 8 component 2701.5.2
MATTRESSES (in Group I) 805
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL
AREA
Defined 2702.1,
Tables 2703.1 .1(1) through 2703.1 1
MEANS OF EGRESS Chapter 10,1411, 2403. 1 2
Accessible means of egress 1007
Assembly 1025
Bleachers 1025.1.1
Buildings under construction or
demolition 1411
Corridors 1017, 1027.17
Defined 1002.1
Egress court 1002.1, 1024.5
Elevators, escalators and moving
walks 1003.7, 1027.2
Emergency escape and rescue 1026
Existing buildings 1027
Exit access 1014
Exit discharge 1 025
Exits 1005
Guards 1013, 1027.6
Handrails 1009.10, 1010.8, 1012, 1025.13
Illumination 1006
Locks, latches 1008.1 .8
Maintenance of 1028
Obscuration of 401 .5
Occupancies 1004.9
Ramps 1010
Signs 1011
Stairways 1 009
MECHANICAL REFRIGERATION (see
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM, MECHANICAL)
MECHANICAL STOCKING METHODS
Defined 2302.1
•
424
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
INDEX
•
MEDICAL GAS SYSTEMS 3006
MEMBRANE STRUCTURE
Defined 2402.1
MERCHANDISE PAD 1014.4.2
Defined 1002
METERS, GAS 603.9
MILLS
Composite board 1 905
Plywood 1 905
Process 2006
Veneer 1905
MIRRORS 1028.5
MOBILE FUELING 3406.5.4.5
Defined 3402.1
MODIFICATIONS (of code requirements) 104.8
MORTAR
Defined 3302.1
MOTION PICTURE
PROJECTION ROOMS AND FILM 306
Film storage 306.2
MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT 1416
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITIES (see also by type of fuel) . . Chapter 22
MULTIPLE-STATION ALARM DEVICE
Defined 902.1
MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM 907.2.10,
907.3.2
Defined 902.1
N
NESTING
Defined 3002.1
NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT
Defined 3302.1
NITROCELLULOSE 2008.1, 2009.4
NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE (NTP)
Defined 2702.1
NOSING
Defined 1002.1
NOTICE OF VIOLATION 109.2
NOZZLES
Fuel delivery 2206.7.6
Fuel transfer 1 106.3.3
Marine craft 2210.3.3
NUISANCE ALARM
Defined 902.1
O
OBSTRUCTIONS TO SPRINKLER
DISCHARGE 315.2.1, 903.3.3
OCCUPANCY, CHANGE OF
(see CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY)
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
Defined 202
Assembly Group A
Defined 202
Business Group B
Defined 202
Educational Group E
Defined 202
Factory Industrial Group F
Defined 202
High-Hazard Group H
Defined 202
Institutional Group I
Defined 202
Mercantile Group M
Defined 202
Miscellaneous Group U
Defined 202
Residential Group R
Defined 202
Storage Group S
Defined 202
OCCUPANT LOAD
Defined 1002.1
OIL-BURNING EQUIPMENT (see FUEL-FIRED
APPLIANCES)
OPEN BURNING 307
Defined 302.1
Permit 105.6.30, 307.2
Precautions in tire storage areas 2504.1
OPEN FLAMES 308, 804.3, 1104.6,
2003.6, 2703.7.2, 3304.7.2, 3406.2.1
Devices 308.5
Group A occupancies 308.3.7
Permit 105.6.31, 105.6.32
OPEN SYSTEM
Defined 202
OPERATING BUILDING
Defined 3302.1
Separation distances . 3305.3
OPERATING PRESSURE
Defined 202
ORDERS AND NOTICES 109.2.2
ORGANIC COATING Chapter 20
Defined 2002.1
Electrical equipment and protection 2004
General 2003
Kettles 2006
Manufacture Chapter 20
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
425
INDEX
Permit 105.6.33
Process structures 2005
ORGANIC PEROXIDE 1508, Chapter 39
Defined 3902.1
Indoor storage 3904.1
Outdoor storage 3904.2,
Table 3904.1 .2, Table 3904.2.4
Requirements 3903
Use 3905
OUTDOOR CONTROL AREA
Defined 2702.1
Hazardous materials 2703.12
OVENS (see INDUSTRIAL OVENS)
OVERCROWDING
Defined 202
Prohibited 107.6
OWNER
Defined 202
OXIDIZERS Chapter 40
Defined 4002.1
Indoor storage 4004.1
Outdoor storage 4004.2
Requirements 4003
Use 4005
OXIDIZING GAS
Defined 4002.1
OZONE-GAS GENERATOR 3705
Automatic shutdown 3705.5
Defined 3702.1
Location 3705.3
Manual shutdown 3705.6
P
PANIC HARDWARE 1008.1.9
Defined 1002.1
PARKING AND GARAGING 3406.2.1, 3811.2.1
PASS-THROUGH
Defined 1802.1
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE LIMIT (PEL)
Defined 2702.1
PERMITS 105
PESTICIDE
Defined 2702.1
PHYSICAL HAZARD
Defined 2702.1
PIPING, VALVES AND
FITTINGS 3406.4.7.6, 3705.4
Design 2007.1
Protection and security 2404.16.3
Protection from vehicles 2703.9.3
PLACARDS; PLACARDING (see also SIGNS)
Cryogenic fluid containers 3203.4.2
Explosives 3304.6.5, 3304.6.5.2
Flammable and combustible
liquid tanks 3403.5.3, 3404.2.3.2
Vacant buildings 31 1 .5
PLANS (see also CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS)
Diagrams 408.4.1
Evacuation 404.3.1
Facility closure 407.7
Fire safety 404.3.2
Hazardous materials management ..... 3305.2.1
Maintenance 3305.2.2
Prefire 1408.2
Specifications 2208.8.1.2.1
Storage 3404.4.1
PLASTICS
Cellulose nitrate Chapter 42
Classifications of 2303.7
Foam 803.7, 804.2, 807.4.2.1, 808.2
Manufacturing of glass-fiber-reinforced 1511
Pyroxylin 105.6.37, 903.2.4.3,
903.6.1, Chapter 42
PLOSOPHORIC MATERIAL
Defined 3302.1
PLYWOOD AND VENEER MILLS
Defined 1902.1
Fire alarm system 907.2.17, 1904.1
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS (see FIRE
EXTINGUISHERS)
PORTABLE TANKS
Defined 2702.1
Design, construction and capacity 3404.3.1
Empty 3404.3.3.4
Flammable liquids 2206.2.5
Flow rate 3704.2.2.7.5, Table 3704.2.2.7.5
Indoor storage 3404.3.3
Local exhaust 3704.2.2.4, 3704.3.2.3
Outdoor storage 3404.4, Table 3404.4,
3704.3.4
Piles 3404.3.3.10, 3404.3.7.2.3
POWDER COATING 1506
POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS 309
Battery charging 309.2
Defined 302.1
Fire extinguishers 309.4
Refueling 309.5
Repairs 309.6
Ventilation 309.3
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE .... Chapter 3, 1404,
1405.4,2504
#
426
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
INDEX
PREMISES IDENTIFICATION 505
PRESSURE VESSEL
Defined 2702.1
PRIMARY CONTAINMENT
Defined 202
PRIMARY TANK
Defined 3402.1
PROCESS
Piping 2007
Raw materials 2008, 2009
PROCESS TRANSFER
Defined 3402.1
Operations 3406.5
PROPANE (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
PROPELLANT
Defined 2802.1
PROPYLENE (see LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS)
PROXIMATE AUDIENCE
Defined 3302.1
Displays 3308.2.2
PUBLIC ASSEMBLAGES AND EVENTS 403
PUBLIC WAY 1024.6
Defined 1002.1
PYROPHORIC
Defined 4102.1
Indoor storage. 4104.1
Materials Chapter 41
Outdoor storage 41 04.2
Requirements 41 03
Use 4105
PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION
Defined 3302.1
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL EFFECT
Defined 3302.1
PYROTECHNIC SPECIAL EFFECTS MATERIAL
Defined 3302.1
Permit 105.6.36
PYROXYLIN (CELLULOSE NITRATE) PLASTICS
Decorative materials 807.3
Fire protection 4204.2
Raw material 4204.1
Requirements 4203
Storage and handling 4204
Q
QUICK-RESPONSE SPRINKLERS (see AUTOMATIC
SPRINKLERS)
RACK STORAGE 2308, 2804.4.3, 3404.3.3.6
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE®
RAILWAY
Defined 3302.1
RAMP 1010, 1023
Defined 1002.1
RAW PRODUCT
Defined 1902.1
Storage and processing 1908
READY BOX
Defined .3302.1
RECALL, FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM
COMPONENT 901 .9
RECORD DRAWINGS
Defined 902.1
RECORDS 104.6, 104.6.3, 107.2.1, 405.5,
604.3.2, 606.15, 901.6.2, 1106.5.3.2.2,
2603.5,2703.3.1.1,3303
RECREATIONAL FIRE 307.4.2
Defined 302.1
REDUCED FLOW VALVE
Defined 3702.1
REFERENCED STANDARDS 102.6, Chapter 45
REFINERY
Defined 3402.1
REFRIGERANT 606.2
Classification 606.3
Defined 602.1
Detector 606.8
Discharge ; . . .606.12
Storage 606.1 1
Type 606.4
REFRIGERATION SYSTEM 606.9.1
Defined 602.1
REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL
Defined 202
RELEASE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL 2703.3
REMOTE EMERGENCY SHUTOFF DEVICE
Defined 3402.1
Use of 3406.5.4.5
REMOTE SOLVENT RESERVOIR
Defined 3402.1
REPAIR GARAGE 2211
Defined 2202.1
Gas detection system 221 1 .7.2
Sources of ignition 221 1 .3
Sprinklers required 903.2.8.1
Ventilation 221 1 .4.3
REPORTING
Aviation facilities fire extinguisher use .... 1 105.8
Emergencies 401.1
Fire alarm 1409
Fire 1409
Leak 3404.2.7.10
427
INDEX
Record keeping 3303
RESIN APPLICATION AREA
Defined 1502.1
RESPONSE PROCEDURES 406
RESPONSIBLE PERSON
Defined 2602.1
RETAIL DISPLAY AREA (for aerosols)
Defined 2802.1
Manufacturing facilities 2807.1
Maximum quantities 2806.2, Table 2806.2,
Table 2806.3
REVOCATION OF PERMITS 105.5
RIGHT OF ENTRY 104.3
ROADWAYS, ACCESS FOR FIRE APPARATUS
(see FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD)
ROCKETS AND ROCKETRY 3301 .1 .4
ROLL COATING
Defined 1502.1
ROOF VENTS 910, 1016.2
ROOFING OPERATIONS SAFEGUARDS 1417
ROOFS
Required access 504.1
Safeguarding operations 1417
Stainway access 504.3
RUBBISH (TRASH)
Chutes, automatic
sprinkler protection 903.2.10.2
Containers 304.3
Defined 202
RULES 3303.7. 3305.6.6
SAFETY CAN
Defined 2702.1
SCISSOR STAIR
Defined 1002.1
Use of 1015.2.1
SEATING, FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC
Compliance 1025.1.1
Defined 1002.1
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT
Above-ground tanks 2206.5
Defined 2702.1
Hazardous materials 2704.2, 2704.2.2,
2705.1.3, 2705.2.1.4, 2705.2.2.5,
2705.3.5, 2705.3.7
Indoor storage 2704.2.2.3
Outdoor storage 2704.2.2.4
Type II dry cleaning systems 1207.2.3
Underground tanks 2703.2.4.1
SEGREGATED
Defined 2702.1
SELF-SERVICE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITY 2204
Defined 2201.2
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION
FACILITY Chapter 18
Automatic sprinkler system 1803.10
Defined 1802.1
Emergency alarm system 1803.12
Emergency power 604.2.8, 1803.15
General 1803
Manual fire alarm system 1803.1 1
Permit 105.6.21
Quantity limits Table 1804.2.1
Storage 1804
Transportation and handling 1805.3
Use and handling 1805
SERVICE CORRIDOR 1803.3.8, 1803.9,
1803.12.1.1, 1805.3.3
Defined 1802.1
SHAFTS 704
SHAFTWAY MARKINGS 507.2
SHELF STORAGE 2307
Defined 2302.1
Specialty storage 2310
SIGNS (see also PLACARDS, PLACARDING)
Access roads 3304.6.5.1
Alarms and warning 904.3.4, 1607, 1703.3.1,
2205.6,2210.5.5.1,3403.5.1
Electrostatic apparatus 1507.5.2
Emergency 606.7, 607.2
Exit 604.2.3, 1011,2403.12.6
Fire alarms 907.4.4
Fire department connection 912.4
Fire-resistance-rated construction 703.2.1
Foam plastic 808.2
Hazardous identification 2703.5, 2703.6,
2703.11.3.10,3203.4.1
Illumination 1026.3
Lead-acid battery systems 608.6
Marking 503.3
No smoking 310.3, 2208.8.1.2.6,
2305.3, 2703.7.1, 3404.2.3.1
Placards 3304.6.5
Removal 310.4
Stairway exit 101 1 .3, 101 1 .4
Storage tanks 3404.2.3, 3406.3.7
428
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
INDEX
Street or road 505.2
Tampering 109.2.4
Vacant buildings 311.5
Welding 1503.2.7
SILANE GAS 4106
Indoor storage 4106.2
Outdoor storage 4106.3
Requirements 4106.1
Use and dispensing 41 06.4, 41 06.5
SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM 907.2.10,
907.3.2
Defined 902.1
SLEEPING UNIT
Defined 902.1
SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION Chapter 33
Defined 3302.1
SMALL ARMS PRIMERS
Defined 3302.1
Group M 3306.5.1 .3
Group R-3 3306.4.2
Storage 3306.5.2.3
SMOKE ALARM 907.2.10, 907.3.2
Defined 902.1
SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS 910, 1016.2, 2306.7
SMOKE BARRIERS
Construction 909.5
Maintenance 703.1 .2
Opening protectives in 703.2, 909.5.2
Pressure differential 909.18.6
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS 909
SMOKE DETECTOR 907.2.6.2.3, 907.2.12.1,
907.2.18.1,907.12
Defined 902.1
SMOKE-PROTECTED
ASSEMBLY SEATING 1025.6.2
Defined 1002.1
SMOKE REMOVAL 910.4.6
SMOKELESS PROPELLANTS
Defined 3302.1
General 3306
Storage and handling 3304
SMOKING 310, 1103.2, 1106.3.8, 1404.1,
1503.2.6, 1903.5.3, 2210.5.5.1, 2504.3,
2703.7.1, 3404.2.3.1, 3406.6.1.9
Signs 310.3
SOLID
Defined 2702.1
SOLID SHELVING
Defined 2302.1
Fire protection 2308.2.2.1
Racks 2308.2.2
SOLVENT DISTILLATION UNIT 3405.4
Defined 3402.1
SOLVENT OR LIQUID CLASSIFICATIONS,
DRY CLEANING
Defined 1202.1
SPECIAL AMUSEMENT BUILDING
Defined 202
Fire alarm system 907.2.1 1 , 914.7.2
Permit 105.6.2
Sprinklers 903.2.13, 914.7.1
SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL EXPLOSIVE DEVICE
Defined 3302.1
SPILL CONTROL
Carts and trucks 2703.10.3.4
Dry cleaning 1207.2.3
Flammable and
combustible liquids 3403.4, 3404.3.7.3,
3404.3.8.2, 3404.4.3,
3405.3.7.5.3, 3405.3.7.6.3,
3405.3.8.1, 3406.2.6, 3406.5.1.5
Hazardous materials 2704.2, 2705.1.3,
2705.2.1 .3, 2705.2.2.4, 2705.3.4, 2705.3.6
Lead-acid battery systems 608.5
Service stations and repair garages 2205.3
SPILLS 1104.4, 1405.6, 2009.4.2, 2210.5.2
2404.18.5.3
SPONTANEOUS
IGNITION HAZARDS 304.3.1, 305.2, 1404.4
SPRAY BOOTH
Areas adjacent to 1503.2.1 .3
Construction 1504.3.2.1
Defined 1502.1
Ventilation 1503.3.5.2
SPRAY FINISHING 1504
SPRAY ROOM
Construction 1504.3.1
Defined 1502.1
Ventilation 1503.3.5.2
SPRAYING SPACE
Defined 1502.1
STAGES, FIRE PROTECTION FOR. . . . 905.3.4, 914.6
STAIR
Defined 1002.1
STAIRWAY 1009
Defined 1002.1
Identification 1020.1.5, 1027.18, 1027.21
STAIRWAY, EXTERIOR 1023
Defined 1002.1
STAIRWAY, INTERIOR 1009
Defined 1002.1
STAIRWAY, SPIRAL
Defined 1002.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE*'
429
INDEX
STANDBY PERSONNEL
(see also FIRE WATCH) 2404.20
STANDBY POWER SYSTEM 604, 2705.1.5
STANDPIPE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF
Defined 902.1
STANDPIPE, TYPES OF
Defined 902.1
STANDPIPES 905
Buildings under construction/demolition .... 1413
STATIC PILES
Defined 1902.1
Protection 1 908.6
STATIC PROTECTION 3406.5.1 .7
STATIONARY LEAD-ACID BATTERY SYSTEMS
(see BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY LEAD
ACID)
STEEL
Defined 202
STILLS, DRY CLEANING 1204.2.4, 1207.1
STORAGE
Aerosol, inside 2804
Attics 315.2.4
Baled combustible fibers 2905
Boiler rooms 315.2.3
Calcium carbide 2607.1
Combustible materials, miscellaneous 315
Compressed gas 3004
Concealed spaces 315.2.4
Corrosive materials 3104
Cryogenic fluids 3204
Cylinder and container 2605.2
Detached structure 2904.6
Electrical rooms 315.2.3
Exterior, finished lumber 1909
Flammable gases 3504
Flammable solids 3604
Foam 3404.2.9.1.2.1
Fuel oil 603.3
Hazardous materials definition 2702.1, 2704
Hogged material 1907, 1908
In buildings 315.2
Log areas 1 906
Loose combustible fibers 2904
LP-gas 3809
Means of egress 315.2.2
Mechanical refrigeration rooms 606.10
Mechanical rooms . .315.2.3
Nitrocellulose 2009.4
Organic peroxide 2009.5, 3904
Outside 315.3
Oxidizers 4004
Pyrophoric materials 4104
Pyroxylin (cellulose nitrate) plastics 4204
Semiconductor fabrication facilities 1804
Silane gas 41 06.2, 41 06.3
Specialty 2310
Tank 2009.2
Tire 2505,2509
Under floors 315.2.4
Unstable (reactive) materials 4304
Water-reactive solids and liquids 4404
Wood chips 1907, 1908
STORAGE BATTERY SYSTEMS,
STATIONARY 608
Permit 1 05.6.5
Room design 608.3
Signs 608.6
Ventilation 608.5
STRAW 2404.5, 2903.4
Waste material 304.1.1
SUMPS. . 3406.3.3
SUPERVISING STATION
Defined 902.1
SUPERVISORY SERVICE
Defined 902.1
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL
Defined 902.1
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATING DEVICE
Defined 902.1
SYSTEM
Defined 2702.1
TANK
Abandonment 3404.2.13, 3404.2.13.1.4
Above-ground 2206.2.2, 2206.2.3,
2206.2.4, 2703.2.4.2, 3104.2.1, 3404.2.7.3.5.1,
3404.2.9,3404.2.13.2
Anchoring 3404.2.8.5
Capacity 2205.1 .2
Compressed gas 3003.1, 3003.4.2
Construction 3404.2.9.6.1
Defective 2703.2.6.2
Defined 202
Design and construction 2703.2.1, 3404.2.7,
3404.2.9.6.1
Diking 3404.2.10.2
Discharge 3404.2.7.5.5.2
Dispensing 3406.2.8, 3406.5.4
Drainage control 2206.5
Empty 2703.2.5, 3404.3.3.4,
3404.4.8
Filling operations 2205.1, 3406.6.1.10
•
430
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE'^
INDEX
Inside buildings 2206.2.2, 3404.2.9.4
Installation 2703.2.4, 3404.2.7
Lining 3404.2.7.11
Low pressure 3202.1
Maintenance 2003.9
Marking 3406.2.2
Openings. . . 2206.6.2.1, 3404.2.7.5, 3404.2.9.6.9
Out of service 2703.2.6. 1 , 3404.2. 1 3.1.1
Outside buildings 3404.2.9.5
Overfill protection 3404.2.7.5.8, 3404.2.9.6.6,
3404.2.11.4, 3406.6.1.5, 3406.8.3, 3406.8.5
Permanent and temporary 3406.2.4
Piping 2206.6.3
Piping, valves and fittings 2206.6.2
Portable 2206.2.5, 3404.3
Preparation for fueling 2210.5.6
Pressure 1509.3, 3404.2.7.2
Primary 3402.1
Removal 3404.2.14
Repair, alteration or reconstruction . . . 3404.2.7.6
Security 2206.3
Solvent storage 1207.3
Stationary 3704.2.2.7.4
Storage 2009.2, 3404, 3406.3.2.1, 3406.3.5
Testing 3404.2.12
Underground 2206.2.1, 2703.2.4.1,
3404.2.7.3.5.2,3404.2.11,
3404.2.13.1
Vaults 2206.2.4
Vehicle 2009.3, 3406.5.1.15,
3406.5.1.16,3406.6
Venting 3404.2.7.3, 3404.2.7.3.6,
3404.2.8.9, 3406.2.4.2
Water 508.2.2, 508.5.3
TANK, ATMOSPHERIC
Defined 2702.1
TANK CARS
(see also BULK TRANSFER) 3406.5.1
Loading racks or stations 2009.3, 3406.5.1.12
TANK, PORTABLE
Defined 2702.1
TANK, PRIMARY
Defined 3402.1
TANK, PROTECTED ABOVE-GROUND
Defined 3402.1
TANK, STATIONARY
Defined 2702.1
TANK VEHICLE 2004.3.2, 3406.5.1.16.1, 3406.6
Aircraft fuel-servicing 1 105.4
Certification 3406.5.1.15
Construction 2703.2.1
Defined 2702.1
Dispensing 3406.2.8, 3406.5.4
Fire protection 3406.6.4
Garaging 3406.6.1,3811.3
Loading racks or stations 2009.3
Operation 3406.6.1
Parking 3406.6.3, 381 1
Smoking 3406.6.1 .9
Stability 3406.5.1.16
Use as storage tank 3404.2.2
TAR KETTLE [see ASPHALT (TAR) KETTLES]
TEMPORARY HEATING EQUIPMENT 1403
TEMPORARY WIRING 605.9, 1404.7
TENANT SPACES, VACANT
(see VACANT PREMISES)
TENTS AND OTHER MEMBRANE
STRUCTURES Chapter24
Access 2403.8.1
Air-supported structure 2403.10
Approval 2403.2
Crowd managers 2404.20
Defined 2402.1
Fire safety requirements 2404.2
Generators 2404.19
Heating and cooking equipment 2404.15
Location 2403.8.3
LP-gas 2404.16
Means of egress 2403.12
Occupant load 2404.14
Permit 105.6.43
Portable fire extinguisher 2404.8.12
Seating 2403.11
Structural stability 2403.9
Waste 2404.22
TESTING, ACCEPTANCE
(see ACCEPTANCE TESTING)
THEFT RESISTANT
Defined 3302.1
THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING .... Chapter 17
Defined 1702.1
Fire safety requirements 1703
TIMBER AND LUMBER PRODUCTION
FACILITIES 1907
Defined 1902.1
TIRE REBUILDING 2503
Precautions against fire 2504
TIRE STORAGE Chapter 25
Access 2506
Fencing 2507
Indoor 2509
Outdoor 2505
Precautions against fire 2504
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
431
INDEX
TIRES, BULK STORAGE OF
Defined 902.1
TOOL
Defined 1802.1
TORCH-APPLIED ROOF SYSTEM
Defined 2602.1
TORCHES 308.4
Permit 105.6.31
TOXIC
Defined 3702.1
IVlaterials Chapter 37
TRAINING, EMPLOYEE EMERGENCY 406
TRANSPORTATION
Hazardous materials 1805.3, 2703.10
LP-Gas 3801.1
TRANSVERSE FLUE SPACE
Defined 2302.1
TRASH (see RUBBISH)
TRAVEL DISTANCE, EXIT ACCESS 1016
TREATMENT SYSTEMS 606.12.4, 1803.14.3,
3703.1.3, 3703.2.3.2, 3704.2.2.7, 3704.3.2.5
TROUBLE SIGNAL
Defined 902.1
TURNSTILES 1008.3
u
UNAUTHORIZED DISCHARGE . . . 2703.3.1, 3406.2.6
Defined 2702.1
UNDERGROUND BUILDINGS 404.2, 604.2.16,
905.3.5,907.2.18,
907.2.19,909.20,914.5
UNLAWFUL ACTS 109.1
UNSAFE HEATING APPLIANCES 603.7
UNSAFE BUILDINGS (see BUILDINGS)
UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIAL Chapter 43
Defined 4302.1
Indoor storage 4304.1
Outdoor storage 4304.2
Requirements 4303
Use 4305.1
UNVENTED HEATERS 603.4
UNWANTED FIRE
Defined 202
Reporting 401 .3, 1409
UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE
(see FURNITURE, UPHOLSTERED)
USE, CHANGE OF (see CHANGE OF USE)
USE (MATERIAL)
Defined 2702.1
V
VACANT PREMISES 311
Abandoned 31 1 .1 .1
Fire protection systems 311 .2.2
Placarding 31 1 .5
Removal of hazardous materials 31 1 .4
Safeguarding 31 1 .2
Tenant spaces 31 1 .1 .2
Waste removal 31 1 .3
VAPOR AREA, FLAMMABLE
Defined 1502.1
VAPOR BALANCE SYSTEM 2206.7.9.1
VAPOR PRESSURE
Defined 2702.1
VAPOR-PROCESSING SYSTEM 2206.7.9.2
VAPOR-RECOVERY SYSTEM 2206.7.9
VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
(see IMPACT PROTECTION, VEHICLE)
VEHICLES 314.4
Compressed natural gas motor 2208
Gas-fueled 2404.18
Industrial 3803.2.2
Liquefied petroleum gas motor 2207
Liquid-fueled 2404.1 8 ^j^
Overfilling 2207.7 fjj^'
Storage 313.1
Tank. . . 2009.3, 3406.5.1.15, 3406.5.1.16, 3406.6
VENTILATION
Battery systems 608.6
Dry cleaning 1204.2.1, 1205.2.3, 1206.3.3
Electrostatic equipment 1506.7
Exhaust 1803.14, 1803.15.2
Floor surfacing 1510.5
Hazardous materials 2703.8.4.2,
2703.8.5.2, 2703.8.6.2
2705.2.1.1,2705.2.2.2
Indoor dispensing 2705.1 .9
Indoor storage areas 2704.3
Industrial ovens 2103.1
Mechanical ventilation for
reinforced plastics manufacturing 1511.5
Powered industrial trucks 309.3
Process structures 2005.5
Refrigeration machinery room 606.13
Repair garages 221 1 .4.3, 221 1 .7.1
Spray finishing 1504.1.4.3, 1504.2, 1504.2.4,
1504.6.3, 1506.10
VENTS, SMOKE AND HEAT
(see SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS)
VIOLATION PENALTIES 109.3
432
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
INDEX
•
VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION
APPLIANCE 907.10.1
Defined 902.1
W
WAREHOUSE
Aerosol 2802.1 , 2804.3.2,
Table 2804.3.2, 2804.4
Liquid 2804.6, 3404.3.8, 3404.3.8.5,
Table 3404.3.6(2), Table 3404.3.6(3)
WARRANTS 104.3.1
WASTE MATERIALS,
COMBUSTIBLE 105.6.45, 304, 1404.2
WASTEBASKETS AND
WASTE CONTAINERS 304.3, 808.1
WATCH, FIRE (see FIRE WATCH)
WATER-REACTIVE MATERIAL Chapter 44
Defined 4402.1
Indoor storage 4404.1
Outdoor storage 4404.2
Requirements 4403
Use 4405
WATER SUPPLY
Buildings under construction or demolition,
standpipes 1413
Fire protection 508, 1412
Required 508.1
Sprinklers 903.3.5
Standpipes 1413
Test 508.4
WEATHER PROTECTION 2704.13,
2705.3.9, 3308.5.2, 3308.5.2,
3404.4.7, 3406.5.1.2, 3703.2.5,
3704.3.3, 4104.2.2, 4105.2, 4106.3.4, 4106.5.2
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK Chapter 26
Cutting 2605
Electric arc 2606
Gas 2605
Permit 105.6.11
Requirements 2603, 2604
Tire storage yards 2504.2
Warning signs in flammable
finish operations 1503.2.7
WELL DRILLING 3406.3
WET-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT .... 904.5
Defined 902.1
WET FUELING (see MOBILE FUELING)
WET HOSING (see MOBILE FUELING)
WHARVES 2210.3.1, 2210.5.5, 3406.4.7
WINDOW WELLS 1026.5
WINDOWLESS STORIES OR AREAS 903.2.10,
1027.5
WIRELESS PROTECTION SYSTEM
Defined 902.1
WIRING, ELECTRICAL
Hazards 605
WOODWORKING FACILITIES
(see LUMBER YARDS) 903.2.3.1
WORKSTATION
Defined 1802.1
Z
ZONE, FIRE ALARM
Defined 902.1
2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE''
433
434 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE^
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2006 International Fire Code Errata
THIRD PRINTING (Updated J une 27, 2007)
SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION. For the purposes of this code, certain occupancies are defined as follows:
[B] Assembly Group A. Assembly Group A occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof,
for the gathering together of persons for purposes such as civic, social or religious functions; recreation, food or drink consumption; or
awaiting transportation.
Exceptions:
1. A building or tenant space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons shall be
classified as a Group B occupancy.
2. A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons and accessory to
another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or classified as part of that occupancy.
3. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m^) in area and is accessory to
another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or classified as part of that occupancy.
Assembly occupancies shall include the following: (No change to remainder of Group A text.) (posted 6-27-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - S'"* printing Page 1 of 5
2006 International Fire Code Errata
THIRD PRINTING (Updated J une 27, 2007)
CHAPTERS
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
504.3 Stairway access to roof. New buildings four or more stories in iieigiit, except tiiose witii a roof slope greater than
four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3 percent slope), shall be provided with a stairway to the roof. Stairway access
to the roof shall be in accordance with Section 1009.12 1009.11 . Such stairway shall be marked at street and floor levels
with a sign indicating that the stairway continues to the roof. Where roofs are used for roof gardens orfor other purposes,
stairways shall be provided as required for such occupancy classification, (posted 6-27-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - S'"* printing Page 2 of 5
2006 International Fire Code Errata
THIRD PRINTING (Updated J une 27, 2007)
CHAPTERS
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
907.2.7 G roup M. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group M occupancies having an occupant load of 500
or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. The initiation of a signal
from a manual fire alarm box shall initiate alarm notification appliances as required by Section 907.10.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the
International Building Code.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will automatically activate upon sprinkler water
flow, (posted 6-27-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - S'"* printing Page 3 of 5
2006 International Fire Code Errata
THIRD PRINTING (Updated J une 27, 2007)
CHAPTER 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
1007.5.1 Openness. Platform lifts on an accessible means of egress shall not be installed in a fully enclosed hoistwav of
f i r e- rat e d shaft , (posted 06-27-07)
1008.1.3.3 Horizontal sliding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, horizontal sliding doors permitted to be a
component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 5-6 to Section 1008.1.2 shall comply with all of the
following criteria: (No change to Items 1 through 8.) (posted 06-27-07)
1023.1 Exterior exit ramps and stairways. Exterior exit ramps and stairways serving as an element of a required means
of egress shall comply with this section.
Exception: Exterior exit ramps and stairways for outdoor stadiums complying with Section 1019.1 1020.1 ,
Exception 2. (posted 06-27-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 3"^ printing Page 4 of 5
2006 International Fire Code Errata
THIRD PRINTING (Updated J une 27, 2007)
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
D104.1 Buildings exceeding tliree stories or 30 feet in lieiglit. Buildings orfacilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or
tiiree stories in lieiglit siiall have at least tlifee two means of fire apparatus access for each structure, (posted 06-27-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 3"^ printing Page 5 of 5
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTERS
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
805.1.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release
when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1537 or California Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
1. (No change)
2. The total energy released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 5- 10 minutes of the test shal
not exceed 24 25 megajoules (MJ ).
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 1 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTERS
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
914.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. An approved automatic sprinkler system siiall be installed throughout the entire
building.
Exceptions:
1. That area of a building adjacent to or above the atrium need not be sprinklered, provided that portion of
the building is separated from the atrium portion by not less than a 2-hour fire resistance-rated fire barrier
or horizontal assembly, or both , (posted 1-23-07)
2. Where the ceilings of the atrium are more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the floor, sprinkler protection at the
ceiling of the atrium is not required.
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 2 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTER 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
1012.4 Continuity. Handrail-gripping surfaces siiall be continuous, witiiout interruption by newel posts or other
obstructions.
Exceptions:
1. Handrails within dwelling units are permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at a stair or ramp landing.
(posted 1-23-07)
2. And 3. (No change)
1012.5 Handrail extensions. Handrails shall return to a wall, guard or the walking surface or shall be continuous to the
handrail of an adjacent stair flight or ramp run. At stairways where handrails are not continuous between flights, the
handrails shall extend horizontally at least 12 inches (305 mm) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of
one tread beyond the bottom riser. At ramps where handrails are not continuous between runs, the handrails shall extend
horizontally above the landing 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramps- runs .
Exceptions:
1. And 2. (No change) (posted 1-23-07)
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405 of the International Building
Code, each ofthe exits of a building thatserves stories where the floorsurface is located more than 75 feet(22 860 mm)
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access or more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the level of exit discharge
serving such floor levels shall be a smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stairway in accordance with Section 909.20 of
the International Buildino Code , (posted 12-14-06)
1023.1 Exterior exit ramps and stairways. Exterior exit ramps and stairways serving as an element of a required means
of egress shall comply with this section.
Exception: Exterior exit ramps and stairways for outdoor stadiums complying with Section 1019.1 1020.1 ,
Exception 2. (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 3 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTER 14
FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
[B]1 4 11.3 St ai rw a y f l oor numb e r s i gns. Temporary sta i rway f l oor number s i gns sha ll be prov i ded i n accordance w i th
th e r e qu i r e m e nts of S e ct i on 1012.1.7. (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 4 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTER 33
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
TABLE 3301.8.1(1), Column 4 ("Operating Building"), Rows 4 and 5: Table 330 /1 .5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1) (posted 1-23-07)
TABLE 3301.8.1(2), Column 4 ("Operating Building"), Rows 2, 3, 4 and 5: Table 330^1.5.2(3) 3304.5.2(2) (posted 1-23-
07)
Section 3306.5.2.3, Item 1 should read as follows:
3306.5.2.3 Small arms primers. Commercial stocks of small arms primers shall be stored as follows:
1. Quantities not to exceed 750,000 small arms primers stored in a building shall be arranged such that not
more than 100,000 small arms primers are stored in any one pile and piles are at least 15 feet (4572 mm)
apart, (posted 12-13-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 5 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
CHAPTER 45
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASME:
A13.1— 96 (Reaffirmed 2002) Scheme forthe Identification of Piping Systems.. ..(Posted 1-23-07)
UL:
268—96 Contro l Un i ts for F i re Protect i ve Smol<e Detectors for Fire Alarm Signaling Systems— with Revisions through
October 2003 (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 6 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
APPENDIX B
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
SECTION B106
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ICC IBC:06 International Building Code B104.2, Table B105.1 (posted 1-23-07)
ICC IWUIC:06 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code B103.3 (posted 1-23-07)
NFPA 1142:01 Standard on Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting B103. 3 (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 7 of 8
2006 Inbernational Fire Code Errata
SECOND PRINTING (Updated J ANUARY 23, 2006)
APPENDIX F
HAZARD RANKING
SECTION F102
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ICC IF C:06 International Fire Code ^lOl.l (posted 1-23-07)
NFPA 704-01 Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response FlOl.l, F101.2 (posted 1-23-07)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 2""* printing Page 8 of 8
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
Section 202: Revise as follows:
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION.
[B] Institutional Group I.
Group 1-2. This occupancy shall include. ..(no change)
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the
International R esidential Code.
A child care facility that provides care on a 24-hour basis to more than five children 2 V j^ years of age or less shall
be classified as Group 1-2. (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 1 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 6
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
Section 603.6.1 should read as follows:
603.6.1 Masonry chimneys. Masonry chimneys that, upon inspection, are found to be without a flue liner and that have
open mortar joints which will permit smoke or gases to be discharged into the building, or which are cracked as to be
dangerous, shall be repaired or relined with a listed chimney liner system installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions or a flue lining system installed in accordance with the requirements of the International Building
Code and appropriate for the intended class of chimney service, (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 2 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTERS
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
904.2.1 Hood system suppression. Each required commercial l<itclien exhaust hood and duct system required by
Section §iO609 to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system installed
in accordance with this code, (posted 7-10-06)
909.9.2: Equation 9-8 is deleted, (posted 7-10-06)
Table 910.3 : Revise the section references in column 1, rows 3 through 6 of the table as follows: 910.2.3 910.2.2 .
(posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 3 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
1007.2 Continuity and components. (No change)
Items 1 through 5. (No change)
6. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1021 1022 . (posted 7-10-06)
Items 7 and 8. (No change)
1007.6.2 Separation. Each area of refuge shall be separated from the remainder of the story by a smoke barrier
complying with Section 709 or a horizontal exit complying with Section 1021 1022 . Each area of refuge shall be designed
to minimize the intrusion of smoke.
Exception: Areas of refuge located within a vertical exit enclosure, (posted 7-10-06)
1008.1 Doors. Means of egress doors shall meet the requirements of this section. Doors serving a means of egress
system shall meet the requirements of this section and Section 1017.2 1018.2 (posted 7-10-06)
Table 1016.1: Revise column 3 and add note c, as follows:
WITH SPRINKLER
SYSTEM ^
(feetj
250-
300-
400 -
75 '-
100 -
150 -
175 '-
200 '-
200 -
c. Buildings equipped throuqhoutwith an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1. (posted 7-10-06)
1023.5 Location. Exterior exit ramps and stairways shall be located in accordance with Section 1023.3 1024.3 . (posted
7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1° printing
Page 4 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 15
FLAMMABLE FINISHES
1505.4.1 Fixed fire-extinguishing equipment. An approved automatic fire-extinguishing system or dip tanl< cover in
accordance witii Section 1505.7 1505.3.4 sliall be provided for the following dip tanks: (remainder of text unchanged)
(posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1° printing Page 5 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 18
SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES
Sections 1805.2.2.1, 1805.2.2.2 and 1805.2.2.3: Delete without substitution, (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 6 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 33
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
3301.8.1.1 Mass-detonating explosives. The total net explosive weight of Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.5 explosives shall be
used. See Table 330 /1 .5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1) orTable 3305.3 as appropriate.
Exception: When the TNT equivalence of the explosive material has been determined, the equivalence is
allowed to be used to establish the net explosive weight, (posted 7-10-06)
3301.8.1.2 Nonmass-detonating explosives (excluding Division 1.4). Nonmass-detonating explosives shall be as
follows:
1. Division 1.3 propellants. The total weight of the propellants alone shall be the net explosive weight. The net
weight of propellant shall be used. See Table 330^1.5.2(3) 3304.5.2(2) .
2. Combinations of bulk metal powder and pyrotechnic compositions. The sum of the net weights of metal
powders and pyrotechnic compositions in the containers shall be the net explosive weight. See Table
330/1.5.2(3) 3304.5.2(2) . (posted 7-10-06)
TABLE 3301.8.1(1), Column 2 ( "Magazine"), Column 6 ("Inhabited Building") and Column 8 ("Public Traffic Route"),
Rows 2, 3, 4 and 5: Table 330 ^1 .5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1) (posted 7-10-06)
TABLE 3301.8.1(2), Column 2 ( "Magazine"), Column 6 ("Inhabited Building" and Column 8 ("Public Traffic Route"), Rows
2, 3, 4 and 5: Table 330^1.5.2(3) 3304.5.2(2) (posted 7-10-06)
TABLE 3301.8.1(3), Column 2 ( "Magazine"), Column 4 ("Operating Building"), Column 6("lnhabited Building") and
Column 8 ("Public Traffic Route") in Rows 2, 3, 4 and 5: Table 330^1. 5. 2(/|) 3304.5.2(3) (posted 7-10-06)
3301.8.1.3 Combinations of mass-detonating and nonmass-detonating explosives (excluding Division 1.4).
Combination of mass-detonating and nonmass-detonating explosives shall be as follows:
1. When Division 1.1 and 1.2 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distance for the total quantity
considered first as 1.1 and then as 1.2. The required distance is the greater of the two. When the Division 1.1
requirements are controlling and the TNT equivalence of the 1.2 is known, the TNT equivalent weight of the 1.2
items shall be allowed to be added to the total explosive weight of Division 1.1 items to determine the net
explosive weight for Division 1.1 distance determination. See Table 330^1.5.2(3) 3304.5.2(2 ) orTable 3305.3 as
appropriate.
2. When Division 1.1 and 1.3 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distances for the total quantity
considered first as 1.1 and then as 1.3. The required distance is the greater of the two. When the Division 1.1
requirements are controlling and the TNT equivalence of the 1.3 is known, the TNT equivalent weight of the 1.3
items shall be allowed to be added to the total explosive weight of Division 1.1 items to determine the net
explosive weight for Division 1.1 distance determination. See Table 330/|.5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1 ), 330^1.5.2(3)
3304.5.2(2 ) or 3305.3, as appropriate.
3. When Division 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distances for the total
quantity considered first as 1.1, next as 1.2 and finally as 1.3. The required distance is the greatest of the three.
As allowed by paragraphs 1 and 2 above, TNT equivalent weights for 1.2 and 1.3 items are allowed to be used to
determine the net weight of explosives for Division 1.1 distance determination. Table 330^1.5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1 ) or
3305.3 shall be used when TNT equivalency is used to establish the net explosive weight.
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1°* printing Page 7 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
4. For composite pyrotechnic items Division 1.1 and Division 1.3, tiie sum of tiie netweigiits of tiie pyroteciinic
composition and the explosives involved shall be used. See Tables 330 ^ .5.2(2) 3304.5.2(1 ) and 3 30 ^ .5.2(3)
3304.5.2(2 ).
Table 3304.5.2(1), For Row "Pounds over 5(X)"/"Pounds not over GOOf', Column 3: U^3A0 (posted 7-1 0-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 8 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 34
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
3404.3.2 Liquid storage cabinets. Where other sections of this code require that liquid containers be stored in storage
cabinets, such cabinets and storage shall be in accordance with Sections 3404.3.2.1 through 3^0'1.3.2.3 3404.3.2.2 .
(posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 9 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 35
FLAMMABLE GASES
Insert Section 3503.1.6 to read as follows:
3503.1.6 Liquefied flammable gases and flammable gases in solution. Containers of liquefied flammable gases and
flammable gases in solution shall be positioned in the upright position or positioned so that the pressure relief valve is in
direct contact with the vapor space of the container.
Exceptions:
1. Containers of flammable gases in solution with a capacity of 1.3 gallons (5 L) or less.
2. Containers of flammable liquefied gases, with a capacity not exceeding 1.3 gallons (5 L), designed to
preclude the discharge of liquid from safety relief devices, (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 10 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 36
FLAMMABLE SOLIDS
3606.1 General. Storage, use, handling and processing of magnesium, including the pure metal and alloys of which the
major partis magnesium, shall be in accordance with Chapter 27 and Sections 3602.2 through 3606.8 3606.5.8 . (posted
7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 11 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 38
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
Section 3809.14 Alternative location and protection of storage: Delete (posted 7-10-06)
Section 3809.14 3809.15 Alternative location and protection of storage: Renumber (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 12 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
CHAPTER 45
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASME:
A17.1-2004 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators with A17.1a-2004 Addenda and A17.1S Supplement 2005
(posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 13 of 14
2006 International Fire Code Errata
FIRST PRINTING (Updated J uly 1, 2006)
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of.. .fno change)
Exceptions:
1. Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a single public or private fire apparatus access
road and all dwelling units are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.3 903.3.1.3 , access from two
directions shall not be required.
2. (No Change) (posted 7-10-06)
2006 International Fire Code Errata - 1 printing Page 14 of 14
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