13VAC5-63-440. Chapter 14 Compliance alternative - Change of occupancy.
Replace Chapter 14 of the IEBC with the following:
Section 1401 General
1401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter are applicable when the exception to Section 701.1 is applied.
1401.2 Change of occupancy. The change of occupancy shall be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation process specified in Sections 1402 through 1404.
1401.2.1 Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems. Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems shall conform to the applicable requirements of Sections 708, 709, and 710.
1401.3 Work undertaken in connection with a change of occupancy. Any repairs, alterations, or additions undertaken in connection with a change of occupancy shall conform to the applicable requirements of this code for the work as classified in this code and as modified by this chapter.
Section 1402 Evaluation Process
1402.1 Evaluation process. The evaluation process specified in this section shall be followed in its entirety to evaluate existing buildings for work covered by this chapter. The existing building shall be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of this section and Sections 1403 and 1404. The evaluation shall be comprised of three categories as described in Sections 1402.1.1 through 1402.1.3.
1402.1.1 Fire safety. Included within the fire safety category are the structural fire resistance, automatic fire detection, fire alarm, automatic sprinkler system, and fire suppression system features of the facility.
1402.1.2 Means of egress. Included within the means of egress category are the configuration, characteristics, and support features for means of egress in the facility.
1402.1.3 General safety. Included within the general safety category are the fire safety parameters and the means-of-egress parameters.
1402.2 Occupancy basis. The evaluation of the building per this chapter shall be based on the new occupancy. A partial building change of occupancy shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 1402.2.1 or 1402.2.2 as applicable.
1402.2.1 Separated change of occupancy. Where a portion of the building undergoes a change of occupancy and that portion is separated from the remainder of the building in accordance with Section 508.4 of the VCC, only the portion of building undergoing the change of occupancy shall conform to the provisions of this chapter based on the new occupancy classification.
1402.2.2 Nonseparated change of occupancy. Where a portion of the building undergoes a change of occupancy and that portion is not separated from the remainder of the building in accordance with Section 508.4 of the VCC, the provisions of this chapter shall apply to the entire building based on all the occupancy classifications in the building.
1402.3 Structural evaluation. The existing building shall be evaluated to determine adequacy of the existing structural systems for the proposed change of occupancy. The evaluation shall demonstrate that the existing building with the work completed is capable of resisting the loads specified in Chapter 16 of the VCC.
1402.4 Submittal. The results of the evaluation as required in Section 1402.1 shall be submitted to the code official. Table 1404.1 shall be utilized for tabulating the results of the evaluation. References to other sections of this code indicate that compliance with those sections is required in order to gain credit in the evaluation outlined in this section.
Section 1403 Evaluation data
1403.1 Building height and number of stories. The value for building height and number of stories shall be the lesser value determined by the formula in Section 1403.1.1. Section 504 of the VCC shall be used to determine the allowable height and number of stories of the building. Subtract the actual building height from the allowable height and divide by 12-1/2 feet (3810 mm). Enter the height value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.1, Building Height, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. The maximum score for a building shall be 10.
1403.1.1 Height formula. The following formulas shall be used in computing the building height value:
(Equation 14-1)
Note: Where mixed occupancies are separated and individually evaluated as indicated in Section 1404.3.1, the values AH, AS, EBH, and EBS shall be based on the height of the occupancy being evaluated.
(Equation 14-2)
AH = Allowable height in feet (mm) from Section 504 of the VCC.
EBH = Existing building height in feet (mm).
AS = Allowable height in stories from Section 504 of the VCC.
EBS = Existing building height in stories.CF = 1 if (AH) - (EBH) is positive.
CF = Construction-type factor shown in Table 1403.6(2) if (AH) - (EBH) is negative.
1403.2 Building area. The value for building area shall be determined by the formula in Section 1403.2.2. Section 506 of the VCC and the formula in Section 1403.2.1 shall be used to determine the allowable area of the building. Subtract the actual building area from the allowable area and divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). Enter the area value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.2, Building Area, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. In determining the area value, the maximum permitted positive value for area is 50% of the fire safety score as listed in Table 1404.2, Mandatory Safety Scores.
1403.2.1 Allowable area formula. The following formula shall be used in computing allowable area:
(Equation 14-3)
where:
Aa = Allowable building area per story (square feet).
At = Tabular allowable area factor (NS, S1, S13R, or SM value, as applicable) in accordance with Table 506.2 of the VCC.
NS = Tabular allowable area factor in accordance with Table 506.2 of the VCC for a nonsprinklered building (regardless of whether the building is sprinklered).
If = Area factor increase due to frontage as calculated in accordance with Section 506.3 of the VCC.
1403.2.2 Area formula. The following formula shall be used in computing the area value. Determine the area value for each occupancy floor area on a floor-by-floor basis. For each occupancy, choose the minimum area value of the set of values obtained for the particular occupancy.
(Equation 14-4)
where:
i = Value for an individual separated occupancy on a floor.
n = Number of separated occupancies on a floor.
1403.3 Compartmentation. Evaluate the compartments created by fire barriers or horizontal assemblies that comply with Sections 1403.3.1 and 1403.3.2 and which are exclusive of the wall elements considered under Sections 1403.4 and 1403.5. Conforming compartments shall be figured as the net area and do not include shafts, chases, stairways, walls, or columns. Using Table 1403.3, determine the appropriate compartmentation value (CV) and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.3, Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. For compartment sizes that fall between categories, the determination of the CV shall be permitted to be obtained by linear interpolation.
TABLE 1403.3 COMPARTMENTATION VALUES | |||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
a Compartment size equal to or greater than 15,000 square feet | b Compartment size of 10,000 square feet | c Compartment size of 7,500 square feet | d Compartment size of 5,000 square feet | e Compartment size of | |
A-1, A-3 | 0 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 18 |
A-2 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 14 | 18 |
A-4, B, E, S-2 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 |
F, M, R, S-1 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 16 | 22 |
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929m2. | |||||
1403.3.1 Wall construction. A wall used to create separate compartments shall be a fire barrier conforming to Section 707 of the VCC with a fire-resistance rating of not less than two hours. Where the building is not divided into more than one compartment, the compartment size shall be taken as the total floor area on all floors. Where there is more than one compartment within a story, each compartmented area on such story shall be provided with a horizontal exit conforming to Section 1026 of the VCC. The fire door serving as the horizontal exit between compartments shall be so installed, fitted, and gasketed that such fire door will provide a substantial barrier to the passage of smoke.
1403.3.2 Floor/ceiling construction. A floor/ceiling assembly used to create compartments shall conform to Section 711 of the VCC and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than two hours.
1403.4 Tenant and dwelling unit separations. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating of floors and walls separating tenants, including dwelling units, and not evaluated under Sections 1403.3 and 1403.5.
Table 1403.4 SEPARATION VALUES | |||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
a | b | c | d | e | |
A-1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
A-2 | -5 | -3 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
R | -4 | -2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
A-3, A-4, B, E, F, M, S-1 | -4 | -3 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
S-2 | -5 | -2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
1403.4.1 Categories. The categories for tenant and dwelling unit separations are:
1. Category a - No fire partitions; incomplete fire partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing or automatic-closing.
2. Category b - Fire partitions or floor assemblies with less than one-hour fire-resistance ratings or not constructed in accordance with Section 708 or 711 of the VCC, respectively.
3. Category c - Fire partitions with one-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 708 of the VCC and floor assemblies with one-hour but less than two-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the VCC or with only one tenant within the floor area.
4. Category d - Fire barriers with one-hour but less than two-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the VCC and floor assemblies with two-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the VCC.
5. Category e - Fire barriers and floor assemblies with two-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings and constructed in accordance with Sections 707 and 711 of the VCC, respectively.
1403.5 Corridor walls. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating and degree of completeness of walls that create corridors serving the floor and that are constructed in accordance with Section 1020 of the VCC. This evaluation shall not include the wall elements considered under Sections 1403.3 and 1403.4. Under the categories and groups in Table 1403.5, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.5, Corridor Walls, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
Table 1403.5 CORRIDOR WALL VALUES | ||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
a | b | ca | da | |
A-1 | -10 | -4 | 0 | 2 |
A-2 | -30 | -12 | 0 | 2 |
A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -7 | -3 | 0 | 2 |
A-4, B, E, S-2 | -5 | -2 | 0 | 5 |
a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b. | ||||
1403.5.1 Categories. The categories for corridor walls are:
1. Category a - No fire partitions; incomplete fire partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.
2. Category b - Less than one-hour fire-resistance rating or not constructed in accordance with Section 708.4 of the VCC.
3. Category c - one-hour to less than two-hour fire-resistance rating, with doors conforming to Section 716 of the VCC or without corridors as permitted by Section 1020 of the VCC.
4. Category d - two-hour or greater fire-resistance rating, with doors conforming to Section 716 of the VCC.
1403.6 Vertical openings. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating of interior exit stairways or ramps, hoistways, escalator openings, and other shaft enclosures within the building and openings between two or more floors.
Table1403.6(1) contains the appropriate protection values. Multiply that value by the construction-type factor found in 1403.6(2). Enter the vertical opening value and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.6, Vertical Openings, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety. If the structure is a one-story building or if all the unenclosed vertical openings within the building conform to the requirements of Section 713 of the VCC, enter a value of two. The maximum positive value for this requirement shall be two.
Table 1403.6(1) VERTICAL OPENING PROTECTION VALUE | |
PROTECTION | VALUE |
None (unprotected opening) | -2 times number of floors connected |
Less than 1 hour | -1 times number of floors connected |
1 to less than 2 hours | 1 |
2 hours or more | 2 |
TABLE 1403.6(2) CONSTRUCTION-TYPE FACTOR | |||||||||
FACTOR | TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION | ||||||||
IA | IB | IIA | IIB | IIIA | IIIB | IV | VA | VB | |
1.2 | 1.5 | 2.2 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 2.3 | 3.3 | 7 | |
1403.6.1 Vertical opening formula. The following formula shall be used in computing vertical opening value.
(Equation 14-5)
VO = Vertical opening value.
PV = Protection value from Table 1403.6(1).
CF = Construction-type factor from Table 1403.6(2).
1403.7 HVAC systems. Evaluate the ability of the HVAC system to resist the movement of smoke and fire beyond the point of origin. Under the categories in Section 1403.7.1, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.7, HVAC Systems, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
1403.7.1 Categories. The categories for HVAC systems are:
1. Category a - Plenums not in accordance with Section 602 of the International Mechanical Code. - 10 points.
2. Category b - Air movement in egress elements not in accordance with Section 1020.6 of the VCC. - 5 points.
3. Category c - Both Categories a and b are applicable. - 15 points.
4. Category d - Compliance of the HVAC system with Section 1020.6 of the VCC and Section 602 of the International Mechanical Code. - 0 points.
5. Category e - Systems serving one story; or a central boiler/chiller system without ductwork connecting two or more stories. + 5 points.
1403.8 Automatic fire detection. Evaluate the smoke detection capability based on the location and operation of automatic fire detectors in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC and Section 606 of the International Mechanical Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.8, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.8, Automatic Fire Detection, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
Table 1403.8 AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION VALUES | ||||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
a | b | c | d | e | f | |
A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -10 | -5 | 0 | 2 | 6 | - |
A-2 | -25 | -5 | 0 | 5 | 9 | - |
A-4, B, E, S-2 | -4 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | - |
1403.8.1 Categories. The categories for automatic fire detection are:
1. Category a - None.
2. Category b - Existing smoke detectors in HVAC systems.
3. Category c - Smoke detectors in HVAC systems. The detectors are installed in accordance with the requirements for new buildings in the International Mechanical Code.
4. Category d - Smoke detectors throughout all floor areas other than individual sleeping units, tenant spaces, and dwelling units.
5. Category e - Smoke detectors installed throughout the floor area.
6. Category f - Smoke detectors in corridors only.
1403.9 Fire alarm systems. Evaluate the capability of the fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.9, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.9, Fire Alarm System, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
Table 1403.9 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM VALUES | ||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
a | ba | c | d | |
A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, B, E, R | -10 | -5 | 0 | 5 |
F, M, S | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 |
a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add two points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. | ||||
1403.9.1 Categories. The categories for fire alarm systems are:
1. Category a - None.
2. Category b - Fire alarm system with manual fire alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.4 of the VCC and alarm notification appliances in accordance with Section 907.5.2 of the VCC.
3. Category c - Fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the VCC.
4. Category d - Category c plus a required emergency voice/alarm communications system and a fire command station that conforms to Section 911 of the VCC and contains the emergency voice/alarm communications system controls, fire department communication system controls, and any other controls specified in Section 911 of the VCC where those systems are provided.
1403.10 Smoke control. Evaluate the ability of a natural or mechanical venting, exhaust, or pressurization system to control the movement of smoke from a fire. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.10, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.10, Smoke Control, for means of egress and general safety.
Table 1403.10 SMOKE CONTROL VALUES | ||||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
a | ba | c | d | e | f | |
A-1, A-2, A-3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 6 |
A-4, E | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 5 |
B, M, R | 0 | 2a | 3a | 3a | 3a | 4a |
F, S | 0 | 2a | 2s | 3a | 3a | 3a |
a. This value shall be zero if compliance with Category d or e in Section 1403.8.1 has not been obtained. | ||||||
1403.10.1 Categories. The categories for smoke control are:
1. Category a - None.
2. Category b - The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. Openings are provided in exterior walls at the rate of 20 square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear feet (15 240 mm) of exterior wall in each story and distributed around the building perimeter at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Such openings shall be readily openable from the inside without a key or separate tool and shall be provided with ready access thereto. In lieu of operable openings, clearly and permanently marked tempered glass panels shall be used.
3. Category c - One enclosed exit stairway, with ready access thereto, from each occupied floor of the building. The stairway has operable exterior windows, and the building has openings in accordance with Category b.
4. Category d - One smokeproof enclosure and the building has openings in accordance with Category b.
5. Category e - The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. Each floor area is provided with a mechanical airhandling system designed to accomplish smoke containment. Return and exhaust air shall be moved directly to the outside without recirculation to other floor areas of the building under fire conditions. The system shall exhaust not fewer than six air changes per hour from the floor area. Supply air by mechanical means to the floor area is not required. Containment of smoke shall be considered as confining smoke to the floor area involved without migration to other floor areas. Any other tested and approved design that will adequately accomplish smoke containment is permitted.
6. Category f - Each stairway shall be one of the following: a smokeproof enclosure in accordance with Section 1023.12 of the VCC, pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.5 of the VCC, or shall have operable exterior windows.
1403.11 Means of egress capacity and number. Evaluate the means of egress capacity and the number of exits available to the building occupants. In applying this section, the means of egress are required to conform to the following sections of the VCC: 1003.7, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1016.2, 1026.1, 1028.3, 1028.5, 1030.2, 1030.3, 1030.4, and 1031. The number of exits credited is the number that is available to each occupant of the area being evaluated. Existing fire escapes shall be accepted as a component in the means of egress when conforming to Section 303.
Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.11, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.11, Means of Egress Capacity, for means of egress and general safety.
Table 1403.11 MEANS OF EGRESS VALUES [ | |||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||||
a [ a | b | c | d | e | |
A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, E | -10 | 0 | 2 | 8 | 10 |
M | -3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
B, F, S | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
R | -3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
a. The values indicated are for buildings six stories or less in height. For buildings over six stories above grade plane, add an additional -10 points. | |||||
1403.11.1 Categories. The categories for means-of-egress capacity and number of exits are:
1. Category a - Compliance with the minimum required means-of-egress capacity or number of exits is achieved through the use of a fire escape in accordance with Section 303.
2. Category b - Capacity of the means of egress complies with Section 1005 of the VCC, and the number of exits complies with the minimum number required by Section 1006 of the VCC.
3. Category c - Capacity of the means of egress is equal to or exceeds 125% of the required means-of-egress capacity, the means of egress complies with the minimum required width dimensions specified in the VCC, and the number of exits complies with the minimum number required by Section 1006 of the VCC.
4. Category d - The number of exits provided exceeds the number of exits required by Section 1006 of the VCC. Exits shall be located a distance apart from each other equal to not less than that specified in Section 1007 of the VCC.
5. Category e - The area being evaluated meets both Categories c and d.
1403.12 Dead ends. In spaces required to be served by more than one means of egress, evaluate the length of the exit access travel path in which the building occupants are confined to a single path of travel. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.12, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.12, Dead Ends, for means of egress and general safety.
Table 1403.12 DEAD-END VALUES | ||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIESa | |||
a a | b | c | d | |
A-1, A-3, A-4, B, F, M, R, S | -2 | 0 | 2 | -4 |
A-2, E | -2 | 0 | 2 | -4 |
a. For dead-end distances between categories, the dead-end value shall be obtained by linear interpolation. | ||||
1403.12.1 Categories. The categories for dead ends are:
1. Category a - Dead end of 35 feet (10 670 mm) in nonsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21 340 mm) in sprinklered buildings.
2. Category b - Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm) or 50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance with Section 1020.5, Exception 2, of the VCC.
3. Category c - No dead ends or ratio of length to width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.4.
4. Category d - Dead ends exceeding Category a.
1403.13 Maximum exit access travel distance to an exit. Evaluate the length of exit access travel to an approved exit. Determine the appropriate points in accordance with the following equation and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.13, Maximum Exit Access Travel Distance for means of egress and general safety. The maximum allowable exit access travel distance shall be determined in accordance with Section 1017.1 of the VCC.
(Equation 14-6)
1403.14 Elevator control. Evaluate the passenger elevator equipment and controls that are available to the fire department to reach all occupied floors. Emergency recall and in-car operation of elevators shall be provided in accordance with the building code under which the building or the affected portion thereof was constructed or previously approved. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.14, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.14, Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. The values shall be zero for a single-story building.
Table 1403.14 ELEVATOR CONTROL VALUES | ||||
ELEVATOR TRAVEL | CATEGORIES | |||
a | b | c | d | |
Less than 25 feet of travel above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting or rescue personnel | -2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Travel of 25 feet or more above or below the primary level of elevator access for emergency fire-fighting or rescue personnel | -4 | NP | 0 | 4 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. | ||||
1403.14.1 Categories. The categories for elevator controls are:
1. Category a - No elevator.
2. Category b - Any elevator without Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation.
3. Category c - All elevators with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation as required by the building code under which the building or the affected portion thereof was constructed or previously approved.
4. Category d - All meet Category c or Category b where permitted to be without Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation, and at least one elevator that complies with new construction requirements serves all occupied floors.
1403.15 Means-of-egress emergency lighting. Evaluate the presence of and reliability of means-of-egress emergency lighting. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.15, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.15, Means-of-Egress Emergency Lighting, for means of egress and general safety.
Table 1403.15 MEANS-OF-EGRESS EMERGENCY LIGHTING VALUES | |||
NUMBER OF EXITS REQUIRED BY SECTION 1006 OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE | CATEGORIES | ||
a | b | c | |
Two or more exits | NP | 0 | 4 |
Minimum of one exit | 0 | 1 | 1 |
NP= Not permitted | |||
1403.15.1 Categories. The categories for means-of-egress emergency lighting are:
1. Category a - Means-of-egress lighting and exit signs not provided with emergency power in accordance with Section 2702 of the VCC.
2. Category b - Means-of-egress lighting and exit signs provided with emergency power in accordance with Section 2702 of the VCC.
3. Category c - Emergency power provided to means-of-egress lighting and exit signs, which provides protection in the event of power failure to the site or building.
1403.16 Mixed occupancies. Where a building has two or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy classification, the separation between the mixed occupancies shall be evaluated in accordance with this section. Where there is no separation between the mixed occupancies or the separation between mixed occupancies does not qualify for any of the categories indicated in Section 1403.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as indicated in Section 1404.3.1, and the value for mixed occupancies shall be zero. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.16, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.16, Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety and general safety. For buildings without mixed occupancies, the value shall be zero.
Table 1403.16 MIXED OCCUPANCY VALUESa | |||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | ||
a | b | c | |
A-1, A-2, R | -10 | 0 | 10 |
A-3, A-4, B, E, F, M, S | -5 | 0 | 5 |
a. For fire-resistance ratings between categories, the value shall be obtained by linear interpolation. | |||
1403.16.1 Categories. The categories for mixed occupancies are:
1. Category a - Occupancies separated by minimum one-hour fire barriers, minimum one-hour horizontal assemblies, or both.
2. Category b - Separations between occupancies in accordance with Section 508.4 of the VCC.
3. Category c - Separations between occupancies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than twice that required by Section 508.4 of the VCC.
1403.17 Automatic sprinklers. Evaluate the ability to suppress a fire based on the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the VCC. "Required sprinklers" shall be based on the requirements of this code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.17, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.17, Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress divided by two, and general safety. High-rise buildings defined in Chapter 2 of the VCC that undergo a change of occupancy to Group R shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 403 of the VCC and Chapter 9 of the VCC.
Table 1403.17 SPRINKLER SYSTEM VALUES | ||||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||||
aa | ba | c | d | e | f | |
A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -6 | -3 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 |
A-2 | -4 | -2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
A-4, B, E, S-2 | -12 | -6 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 12 |
a. These options cannot be taken if Category a in Section 1403.18 is used. | ||||||
1403.17.1 Categories. The categories for automatic sprinkler system protection are:
1. Category a - Sprinklers are required throughout; sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler system design is not adequate for the hazard protected in accordance with Section 903 of the VCC.
2. Category b - Sprinklers are required in a portion of the building; sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler system design is not adequate for the hazard protected in accordance with Section 903 of the VCC.
3. Category c - Sprinklers are not required; none are provided.
4. Category d - Sprinklers are required in a portion of the building; sprinklers are provided in such portion; the system is one that complied with the code at the time of installation and is maintained and supervised in accordance with Section 903 of the VCC.
5. Category e - Sprinklers are required throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance with Chapter 9 of the VCC.
6. Category f - Sprinklers are not required throughout; sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance with Chapter 9 of the VCC.
1403.18 Standpipes. Evaluate the ability to initiate attack on a fire by making a supply of water available readily through the installation of standpipes in accordance with Section 905 of the VCC. "Required Standpipes" shall be based on the requirements of the VCC. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1403.18, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.18, Standpipes, for fire safety, means of egress, and general safety.
Table 1403.18 STANDPIPE SYSTEM VALUES | ||||
OCCUPANCY | CATEGORIES | |||
aa | b | c | d | |
A-1, A-3, F, M, R, S-1 | -6 | 0 | 4 | 6 |
A-2 | -4 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
A-4, B, E, S-2 | -12 | 0 | 6 | 12 |
a. This option cannot be taken if Category a or Category b in Section 1403.17 is used. | ||||
1403.18.1 Standpipe categories. The categories for standpipe systems are:
1. Category a - Standpipes are required; standpipe is not provided or the standpipe system design is not in compliance with Section 905.3 of the VCC.
2. Category b - Standpipes are not required; none are provided.
3. Category c - Standpipes are required; standpipes are provided in accordance with Section 905 of the VCC.
4. Category d - Standpipes are not required; standpipes are provided in accordance with Section 905 of the VCC.
1403.19 Incidental uses. Evaluate the protection of incidental uses in accordance with Section 509.4.2 of the VCC. Do not include those where this code requires automatic sprinkler systems throughout the building, including covered and open mall buildings, high-rise buildings, public garages, and unlimited-area buildings. Assign the lowest score from Table 1403.19 for the building or floor area being evaluated and enter that value into Table 1404.1 under Safety Parameter 1403.19, Incidental Uses, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety. If there are no specific occupancy areas in the building or floor area being evaluated, the value shall be zero.
Table 1403.19 INCIDENTAL USE AREA VALUES | |||||||
|
PROTECTION REQUIRED BY TABLE 509 OF THE VCC | PROTECTION PROVIDED | ||||||
None | 1 hour | AS | AS with CRS | 1 hour and AS | 2 hours | 2 hours and AS | |
2 hours and AS | -4 | -3 | -2 | -2 | -1 | -2 | 0 |
2 hours, or 1 hour and AS | -3 | -2 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
1 hour and AS | -3 | -2 | -1 | -1 | 0 | -1 | 0 |
1 hour | -1 | 0 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
1 hour, or AS with CRS | -1 | 0 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
AS with CRS | -1 | -1 | -1 | -1 | 0 | -1 | 0 |
1 hour or AS | -1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
AS = Automatic sprinkler system; CRS - Construction capable of resisting the passage of smoke (see Section 509.4.2 of the VCC). | |||||||
Section 1404 Evaluation Scores
1404.1 Building Score. After determining the appropriate data from Section 1403, enter those data in Table 1404.1 and total the building score.
TABLE 1404.1 SUMMARY SHEET-BUILDING CODE | |||||
Existing occupancy _____________________ | Proposed Occupancy ____________________ | ||||
Year building was constructed ____________________ | Number of stories__________ Height in feet ___________ | ||||
Type of construction ____________________ | Area per floor ____________________ | ||||
Percentage of open perimeter increase ________% | |||||
Completely suppressed: | Yes____ | No____ | Corridor wall rating____________________ | ||
Type: ____________________ | |||||
Fire-resistance rating of vertical opening enclosures ________________________________________________ | |||||
Type of HVAC system ____________________, serving number of floors ____________________ | |||||
Automatic fire detection: | Yes____ | No____ | Type and Location: ____________________ | ||
Fire alarm system: | Yes____ | No____ | Type: ____________________ | ||
Smoke control: | Yes____ | No____ | Type: __________________ | ||
Adequate exit routes: | Yes____ | No____ | Dead ends: __________ | Yes___ | No____ |
Maximum exist access travel distance _________________ | Elevator controls: | Yes____ | No____ | ||
Means of egress emergency lighting: | Yes____ | No____ | Mixed occupancies: | Yes____ | No____ |
Standpipes | Yes____ | No____ | Patient ability for self-preservation _________ | ||
Incidental use | Yes____ | No____ | Patient concentration ___________________ | ||
Smoke compartmentation less than 22,500 sq. feet (2092 m2) | Yes____ | No____ | Attendant-to-patient ratio ________________ | ||
SAFETY PARAMETERS | FIRE SAFETY (FS) | MEANS OF EGRESS (ME) | GENERAL SAFETY (GS) |
1403.1 Building Height | |||
1403.2 Building Area | |||
1403.3 Compartmentation | |||
1403.4 Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separations | |||
1403.5 Corridor Walls | |||
1403.6 Vertical Openings | |||
1403.7 HVAC Systems | |||
1403.8 Automatic Fire Detection | |||
1403.9 Fire Alarm System | |||
1403.10 Smoke Control | **** | ||
1403.11 Means of Egress | **** | ||
1403.12 Dead Ends | **** | ||
1403.13 Maximum Exit Access Travel Distance | **** | ||
1403.14 Elevator Control | |||
1403.15 Means of Egress Emergency Lighting | **** | ||
1403.16 Mixed Occupancies | **** | ||
1403.17 Automatic Sprinklers | ÷ 2 = | ||
1403.18 Standpipes | |||
1403.19 Incidental Use | |||
Building score - total value | |||
****No applicable value to be inserted. | |||
1404.2 Safety scores. The values in Table 1404.2 are the required mandatory safety scores for the evaluation process listed in Section 1403.
TABLE 1404.2 MANDATORY SAFETY SCORESa | |||
OCCUPANCY | FIRE SAFETY (MFS) | MEANS OF EGRESS (MME) | GENERAL SAFETY (MGS) |
A-1 | 20 | 31 | 31 |
A-2 | 21 | 32 | 32 |
A-3 | 22 | 33 | 33 |
A-4, E | 29 | 40 | 40 |
B | 30 | 40 | 40 |
F | 24 | 34 | 34 |
M | 23 | 40 | 40 |
R | 21 | 38 | 38 |
S-1 | 19 | 29 | 29 |
S-2 | 29 | 39 | 39 |
a. MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety, MME = Mandatory Means of Egress, MGS = Mandatory General Safety | |||
1404.3 Final scores. The mandatory safety score in Table 1404.2 shall be subtracted from the building score in Table 1404.1 for each category. Where the final score for any category equals zero or more, the building is in compliance with the requirements of this section for that category. Where the final score for any category is less than zero, the building is not in compliance with the requirements of this section.
1404.3.1 Mixed occupancies. For mixed occupancies, the following provisions shall apply:
1. Where the separation between mixed occupancies does not qualify for any category indicated in Section 1403.16, the mandatory safety scores for the occupancy with the lowest general safety score in Table 1404.2 shall be utilized. (See Section 1404.3.1).
2. Where the separation between mixed occupancies qualifies for any category indicated in Section 1403.16, the mandatory safety scores for each occupancy shall be placed against the evaluation scores for the appropriate occupancy.
TABLE 1404.3 FINAL SCORESa | ||||||
FORMULA | T1404.1 | T1404.2 | SCORE | PASS | FAIL | |
FS - MFS ≥ 0 | _____ (FS) - | _____ (MFS) | = | _____ | _____ | _____ |
ME - MME ≥ 0 | _____ (ME) - | _____ (MME) | = | _____ | _____ | _____ |
GS - MGS ≥ 0 | _____ (GS) - | _____ (MGS) | = | _____ | _____ | _____ |
a. FS = Fire Safety MFS = Mandatory Fire Safety. ME = Means of Egress. MME = Mandatory Means of Egress. GS = General Safety. MGS = Mandatory General Safety. | ||||||
Statutory Authority
§ 36-98 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 3, eff. November 16, 2005; amended, Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 14, eff. May 1, 2008; Volume 27, Issue 2, eff. March 1, 2011; Change in Effective Date, 27:5 VA.R. 534 November 8, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 30, Issue 16, eff. July 14, 2014; Volume 34, Issue 18, eff. September 4, 2018; Volume 35, Issue 3, eff. November 1, 2018; Volume 37, Issue 14, eff. July 1, 2021; Volume 40, Issue 9, eff. January 18, 2024.