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ICC 500-2014Standard andCommentaryICC/NSSA Standard for the Designand Construction of Storm Shelters



ICC 500—2014 Standard and Commentary: ICC/NSSA Design and Construction of Storm Shelters(ICC 500 Commentary—2014)

First Printing: February 2016

ISBN: 978-1-60983-629-0

Copyright © 2016by

INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This ICC 500—2014 Standard and Commentary: ICC/NSSA Design and Construction of StormShelters (ICC 500 Commentary—2014) is a copyrighted work owned by the International Code Council, Inc. Without advancewritten permission from the copyright owner, no part of this book may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form orby any means, including, without limitation, electronic, optical or mechanical means (by way of example, and not limitation,photocopying, or recording by or in an information storage retrieval system). For information on permission to copy materialexceeding fair use, please contact: Publications, 4051 Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478. Phone 1-888-ICC-SAFE(422-7233).Trademarks: “ICC,” the “International Code Council” logo and “ICC 500—2014 Standard and Commentary: ICC/NSSADesign and Construction of Storm Shelters (ICC 500 Commentary—2014)” are trademarks of the International Code Council,Inc. The “NSSA” logo is a trademark of the National Storm Shelter Association.

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STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014 iii

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iv STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014



STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014 v

ICC 500—2014 Standard and Commentary: ICC/NSSA Design and Construction of Storm Shelters

PREFACE

Purpose and ApplicationThe principal purpose of this commentary is to provide a basic volume of knowledge as it pertains to the regulations set forth inICC 500—14.In the chapters that follow, discussions focus on the full meaning and implications of the text of the standard. Illustrations andphotos are provided to aid understanding. Where illustrations are provided to demonstrate a method of compliance, they do notnecessarily illustrate the only methods of compliance. The commentary text is not part of American National Standard ICC500—2014 and has not been processed in accordance with ANSI’s requirements for an American National Standard (ANS). Assuch, the commentary text will contain material that has not been subjected to public review or a consensus process.The format of this document includes the full text of each section, table, and figure in ICC 500—2014, followed immediately bythe commentary applicable to the section. Each section’s introduction includes a discussion about the objective of the sectionand usually some discussion about why the requirements are contained in the standard. Standard text and commentary text areeasily distinguished from each other. All standard text is shown as it appears in ICC 500—2014, and all commentary is indentedbelow the standard text with the symbol .Readers should note that the commentary is to be used in conjunction with ICC 500—2014 and not as a substitute for the stan-dard itself. The commentary is advisory only; the code official alone possesses the authority and responsibility for interpretingthe codes and standards.Additional background information on the history and development of ICC 500—2014 provisions is available in the FederalEmergency Management Agency (FEMA) publication FEMA P-361, Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance forCommunity and Residential Safe Rooms (Third Edition, 2015). Note, “safe room” is FEMA terminology for storm shelter,although there are some modest differences. FEMA defines a safe room as follows: “A storm shelter specifically designed tomeet FEMA safe room Recommended Criteria and provide near-absolute protection in extreme-wind events, including torna-does and hurricanes.” Near-absolute protection is defined as “Level of protection afforded to the occupants of a safe room builtaccording to the guidance in the most current edition of FEMA P-361. Our current knowledge of tornadoes and hurricanes indi-cates that safe room occupants will have a very high probability of being protected from injury or death” (FEMA 2015). Thedesign guidelines for FEMA safe rooms begin with the provisions of ICC 500—2014 but include several modifications andadditional requirements, all of which are more conservative than ICC 500—2014. The FEMA publication includes supplementalcommentary for most provisions of ICC 500—2014, as well as identification of best practices. FEMA P-361 also provides guid-ance on a range of topics beyond the scope of ICC 500—2014, including planning, costs, operation, and maintenance of saferooms—information that is also generally applicable to storm shelters.The discussion provided in this commentary has been provided by members of the ICC 500—2014 Committee, as well as otherswho have experience with the design and construction of storm shelters and other hazard mitigation issues related to high-windevents. ICC would like to acknowledge contributions from the following individuals with thanks for their efforts in the writingof this document:Jim Bell, P.E., ASSA ABLOYGary Ehrlich, P.E., National Association of Home BuildersCheri Bright Haner, CBO, City of Virginia BeachAndrew Herseth, P.E., S.E., FEMADr. Ernst Kiesling, P.E., Texas Tech University and NSSAOmar Kapur, P.E., AECOMDanny Kilcollins, FDEM, Florida Department of Community AffairsDr. Marc Levitan, National Institute of Standards and TechnologyBrian O’Connor, P.E., COM SMITHJason Pirtle, P.E., Remagen CorporationKurt Roeper, ASSA ABLOY Americas



vi STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014

Corey Schultz, R.A., Schultz Architects, LLCPataya Scott, E.I.T., AECOME. Scott Tezak, P.E., TRCJames Waller, P.E., Remagen CorporationThe information contained in this preface is not part of the ANS and has not been processed in accordance with ANSI’s require-ments for an ANS. As such, this preface may contain material that has not been subjected to public review or a consensus pro-cess. In addition, it does not contain requirements necessary for conformance to the standard.

IntroductionIn May of 2002 the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Storm Shelter Association (NSSA) initiated a joint proj-ect to write a standard for the design and construction of storm shelters. A standard development committee was created, and thefirst meeting of that committee was in May of 2003. The scope of the standard is to provide minimum design and constructionrequirements for storm shelters that provide a safe refuge from storms that produce high winds, hurricanes and tornadoes. Hurri-canes and tornadoes generate high winds that produce wind pressures on buildings and structures and that create flying debris atlevels and intensities than are higher than those for which most commercial building and residences are designed. The magni-tude of the wind speeds associated with these storms are such that building occupants and residents are required to evacuate thearea or seek protection in a shelter designed for resistance to extraordinary loads and flying debris. ICC 500—2014 providesdesign requirements for the main wind-resisting structural system and components and cladding of these shelters, and providesbasic occupant life safety and health requirements for these shelters, including means of egress, lighting, sanitation, ventilation,fire safety and minimum required floor space for occupants.

DevelopmentAs of December 2014 the second edition of the International Code Council (ICC) and National Storm Shelter Association’s(NSSA) Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters has been published. The standard was developed by theICC/NSSA Consensus Committee on Storm Shelters (IS-STM), which operates under ANSI Approved ICC Consensus Proce-dures for the Development of ICC Standards. The consensus process of ICC for promulgating standards is accredited by ANSI.The Storm Shelter Committee is a balanced committee formed and operated in accordance with ICC rules and procedures.The meetings of the ICC/NSSA IS-STM Consensus Committee were open to the public and interested individuals and organiza-tions from across the country participated. The technical content of currently published documents on storm shelters, includingdocuments of the National Storm Shelter Association, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Red Cross,and the State of Florida, was reviewed and considered by the committee. The information from these documents helped form abasis for the regulations installed in ICC 500—2014, but the exact provisions adopted by the committee were determined basedon the scope and intent of ICC 500—2014. The requirements of ICC 500—2014 are based on the intent to establish provisionsconsistent with the scope of the ICC family of codes and standards that are written to adequately protect public health, safety andwelfare; provisions that do not necessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not restrict the use of new materials,products or methods of construction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to particular types or classes of mate-rials, products or methods of construction.

AdoptionICC 500—2014, Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters is available for adoption and use by any jurisdic-tion. Its use within a governmental jurisdiction is intended to be accomplished through adoption by reference in accordance withproceedings establishing the jurisdiction’s laws. At the time of adoption, jurisdictions should insert the appropriate informationin provisions requiring specific local information, such as the name of the jurisdiction.

InterpretationsRequests for Interpretations on the provisions of ICC 500—2014 should be addressed to: ICC, Central Regional Office, 4051Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478.

Maintenance—Submittal of ProposalsAll ICC standards are periodically updated as required by ANSI. Proposals for revising the second edition are welcome. Pleasevisit the ICC website at www.iccsafe.org for the official “Call for Proposals” announcement. A proposal form and instructionscan also be downloaded from www.iccsafe.org.ICC, its members and those participating in the development of ICC 500—2014 do not accept any liability resulting from com-pliance or noncompliance with the provisions of ICC 500—2014. ICC does not have the power or authority to police or enforcecompliance with the contents of the standard. Only the governmental body that enacts the standard into law has such authority.



STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014 vii

International Code Council/National Storm Shelter Association Consensus Committee onStorm Shelters (IS-STM)Consensus Committee Scope: The ICC/NSSA Consensus Committee on Storm Shelters (IS-STM) shall have primary responsi-bility for minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through design, construction andinstallation requirements for storm shelters.ICC 500—2014 was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the ICC/NSSA Consensus Committee on Storm Shelters(IS-STM). Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply that all committee members voted for its approval.Representatives on the Consensus Committee are classified in one of three voting interest categories. The committee has beenformed in order to achieve consensus as required by ANSI Essential Requirements. At the time it approved the standard, theIS-STM Consensus Committee consisted of the following members:General Interest (G) - User Interest (U) - Producer Interest (P)Mr. Julian Amaya (G), Housing Department City of Los Angeles, South Gate, CAMr. Brian Bishop (G), Iowa Department of Public Safety—State Fire Marshal’s Office, Des Moines, IAMr. Gary J. Ehrlich, P.E. (P), National Association of Home Builders, Washington, DCMr. Carlos M. Flores, AIA, NCARB, CGC (P), CMF International Group Inc., Miami, FL Ms. Cheri Bright Hainer, CBO (G), City of Virginia Beach/Planning/Permits & Inspections, Virginia Beach, VA Mr. John T. Hutton, P.E., S.E. (U), Uzun & Case Engineers, Atlanta, GAMr. Christopher P. Jones, P.E. (U), Durham, NCDr. Ernst W. Kiesling (P), Wind Engineering Research Center, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TXMr. Danny John Kilcollins, FDEM (G), Florida Department of Community Affairs, Tallahassee, FLDr. Marc L. Levitan (U), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MDMr. Barry Mooneyham (G), Wake County Government, Raleigh, NCMr. Kurt A. Roeper (P), ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions, New Haven, CTMr. Corey Schultz, R.A. (U), Schultz Architects, LLC, Wichita, KSMr. E. Scott Tezak, P.E. (U), TRC, Lowell, MAMr. James E. Waller, P.E. (P), Remagen Safe Rooms, Monteagle, TNCommittee Secretary: David A. Bowman, P.E., Manager, Codes, International Code Council, Country Club Hills, IL

Voting Membership in Each CategoryCategory Number

General (G) 5User (U) 5Producer (P) 5TOTAL 15



viii STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014

Interest CategoriesGeneral Interest: Individuals assigned to the General Interest category are those who represent the interests of an entity, includ-ing an association of such entities, representing the general public or entities that promulgate or enforce the provisions within thecommittee scope. These entities include consumers and government regulatory agencies.User Interest: Individuals assigned to the User Interest category are those who represent the interests of an entity, including anassociation of such entities, which is subject to the provisions or voluntarily utilizes provisions within the committee scope.These entities include academia, applied research laboratory, building owner, design professional, government nonregulatoryagency, insurance company, private inspection agency and product certification/evaluation agency.Producer Interest: Individuals assigned to the Producer Interest category are those who represent the interests of an entity,including an association of such entities, which produces, installs or maintains a product, assembly or system subject to the pro-visions within the committee scope. These entities include builder, contractor, distributor, labor, manufacturer, material associa-tion, standards promulgator, testing laboratory and utility.NOTE—Multiple Interests: Individuals representing entities in more than one of the above interest categories, one of which isa Producer Interest, are assigned to the Producer Interest. Individuals representing entities in the General Interest and User Inter-est categories are assigned to the User Interest.



STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014 ix

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 APPLICATION ANDADMINISTRATION..................................1

Section101 General ......................................................................1102 Compliance Alternatives ...........................................2103 Conventions...............................................................2104 Occupancy.................................................................2105 Applicable Building Code.........................................3106 Inspections and Structural Observations ...................3107 Construction Documents ...........................................5108 Design Information Signage and Labeling................9

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS..........................................11Section201 General ....................................................................11202 Definitions...............................................................11

CHAPTER 3 STRUCTURAL DESIGNCRITERIA ................................................13

Section301 General ....................................................................13302 Load Combinations .................................................14303 Loads .......................................................................14304 Wind Loads .............................................................17305 Debris Hazards ........................................................28306 Component Design and Testing ..............................30307 Weather Protection..................................................32308 Connection of Storm Shelters to Foundations

or Slabs................................................................33309 Penetrations of Storm Shelter Envelope by

Systems and Utilities ...........................................34

CHAPTER 4 SITING ......................................................37Section401 Flood Elevation Criteria ..........................................37402 Hazardous Materials................................................38403 Siting Proximity for Residential Shelters................41404 Siting for Community Shelters................................41

CHAPTER 5 OCCUPANCY, MEANS OF EGRESS,ACCESS AND ACCESSIBILITY .......... 43

Section501 Community Shelters ............................................... 43502 Residential Shelters................................................. 45503 Locks and Latching................................................. 48504 Signage for Community Shelters............................ 48

CHAPTER 6 FIRE SAFETY.......................................... 51Section601 Fire-Resistant Construction .................................... 51602 Fire Extinguishers ................................................... 51

CHAPTER 7 SHELTER ESSENTIAL FEATURESAND ACCESSORIES .............................. 53

Section701 General.................................................................... 53702 Tornado Shelters ..................................................... 53703 Hurricane Shelters................................................... 57

CHAPTER 8 TEST METHODS FOR IMPACT ANDPRESSURE TESTING ............................ 65

Section801 General.................................................................... 65802 Terminology............................................................ 65803 Test Specimens ....................................................... 65804 Missile Impact Testing............................................ 66805 Pressure Testing...................................................... 78806 Pressure Testing Procedures ................................... 79

CHAPTER 9 REFERENCED STANDARDS............... 83



x STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014



STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014 1

SECTION 101GENERAL

101.1 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to establishminimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safetyand general welfare relative to the design, construction andinstallation of storm shelters constructed for protection fromhigh winds associated with tornadoes and hurricanes. Thisstandard is intended for adoption by government agenciesand organizations for use in conjunction with model codes toachieve uniformity in the technical design and construction ofstorm shelters.This standard provides minimum requirements for the

design of hurricane and tornado shelters. Buildings orportions thereof constructed in accordance with ICC500 are designed to resist the extreme wind loadsgenerated by tornadoes and hurricanes and thus pro-vide shelter to people during such events. The windand rain loads specified in this standard exceed thetypical design wind and rain loads mandated by build-ing codes.

In keeping with the general intent of building codesand reference standards, the structural, fire, egress,and mechanical requirements in this standard arethose considered by the ICC Storm Shelter Commit-tee to provide adequate life safety protection andsafeguard the health and welfare of individuals seek-ing shelter from a tornado or hurricane. The standardallows for selection of wind loads based on the clima-tology and historic risk to a particular region.

This standard is intended to be adopted as alegally enforceable document to regulate the design,construction, installation, and inspection of stormshelters. Since 2009 the International Building Code®

(IBC®) and International Residential Code® (IRC®)have referenced ICC 500 as the applicable standardfor the design and construction of storm shelters.

101.2 Scope. This standard applies to the design, construc-tion, installation, and inspection of storm shelters constructedfor protection from high winds associated with tornadoes andhurricanes. Storm shelters may be separate detached build-ings or rooms and areas within buildings. Shelters designed

and constructed to this standard shall be designated as eitherhurricane shelters, tornado shelters, or combined hurricaneand tornado shelters.Storm shelters can be buildings used solely for shel-

tering (“single-use”), or they can be buildings contain-ing multiple occupancies, uses or functions (“multi-use”). Storm shelters can also be constructed exter-nal to another building, or internal as an area within abuilding. For example, a multi-use storm shelter at aschool may also function as a classroom, a lunch-room, a laboratory, or an assembly room. In a com-mercial building, a storm shelter may also function asa restroom, conference room, or auditorium. A stormshelter intended to serve a manufactured housingcommunity or development of single-family dwellingsmay also function as a community center. Storm shel-ter uses (either single or multi-use) may affect thetype of storm shelter selected and its location.

101.3 Requirements not included. Where requirements arenot provided by this standard, the applicable provisions of theconstruction codes adopted by the authority having jurisdic-tion shall apply to the storm shelter.The standard is not written to comprehensively deal

with provisions that might be applicable to the con-struction of the shelter or the building containing theshelter. For instance, in areas where the IBC is appli-cable, the exterior wall of the shelter might need tohave a fire-resistance rating because of the fire sepa-ration distance of the building to a lot line. The stan-dard contains requirements for fire separation of astorm shelter from its host building but does notaddress fire-resistance ratings for the exterior walland/or fire protection of exterior openings in accor-dance with the applicable code provisions. Theimportance of integrating sound storm shelter designwith building codes is emphasized in Waller and Kies-ling (2003).

101.4 Special needs. Provisions that are necessary for per-sons with special needs, including any special electrical ormechanical equipment, sanitary facilities or other special fea-tures, are outside the scope of this standard.

Chapter 1:Application and Administration

General CommentsThis chapter provides provisions regarding the purpose,scope, application, and administration of subsequentrequirements of ICC 500. In addition to the statement ofpurpose and scope of the standard, this chapter pro-vides for the occupancy classification of a storm shelterwhen it is a stand-alone, dedicated facility and when it is

a room within a building used for other purposes. Thischapter also details special inspection requirements andprovides specific information that must be supplied onconstruction documents when submitted for permitapproval. Finally, the chapter addresses labeling andsignage for storm shelters.



APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

2 STANDARD FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STORM SHELTERS COMMENTARY—2014

The ICC 500 is intended to provide basic require-ments for a population of occupants without signifi-cant physical or mental conditions that require specialequipment or special facilities. The possible types ofrequired special amenities or facilities are so manyand so varied that it would be unwise to try to identifyany group of special needs that should require atten-tion at any given time; however, planners and design-ers of facilities should take such special needs intoconsideration where it is likely that such a facility isrequired. For instance, if the shelter is in conjunctionwith a hospital, the designer should consider provid-ing facilities for bedridden patients.

101.5 Referenced standards. The specific year, date andeditions of the standards referenced by this standard are listedin Chapter 9.When the standard needs to rely on another standard

referenced in this code, it is important to use the spe-cific standard year and edition, which are referencedin Chapter 9. When composing the text with the refer-ence, the committee made its decision to use thespecific requirements as written in a certain edition ofthe standard. The only way to be sure that the intentof ICC 500 is followed in those cases is to use thedocument that the committee reviewed and refer-enced.

SECTION 102COMPLIANCE ALTERNATIVES

102.1 Compliance alternatives. Nothing in this standard isintended to prevent the use of designs, technologies or prod-ucts as alternatives to any prescriptions in this standard, pro-vided equivalence is demonstrated and approved by theauthority having jurisdiction.This language is very similar to language placed in all

of the ICC codes and standards. It allows the possi-bility that new technology could become available inthe future, which may not meet prescribed require-ments but would meet the intent of the standard.

The standard is not intended to prohibit innovativeideas or technological advances. A performance-based approach is most applicable for providing abasis for the approval of an increasing number ofnewly developed innovative materials, systems andmethods for which no code requirements or referencestandards exist. The building official is expected toapply sound technical judgment accepting materials,systems or methods that can be demonstrated tooffer equivalent performance. The building official isresponsible for determining if a requested alternativeprovides the equivalent level of protection of publichealth, safety and welfare required by the provisionsin the standard.

SECTION 103CONVENTIONS

103.1 Dimensions. All dimensions that are not stated as“maximum” or “minimum” are nominal. All dimensions aresubject to conventional industry tolerances unless otherwisenoted.This is standard text common to construction stan-

dards. The intent is to clarify what the meaning of adimension callout is.

SECTION 104OCCUPANCY

104.1 Rooms or spaces within other uses. Where desig-nated storm shelters are constructed as a room or space withina building which will normally be occupied for other pur-poses, the requirements of the applicable building code forthe occupancy of the building, or the individual rooms orspaces thereof, shall apply unless otherwise stated in thisstandard.Quite often the storm shelter will be a designated

room or space within a larger facility that is designedto function as a storm shelter in emergencies but alsoto be used for some other purpose normally. A com-mon example is a classroom, study hall, gymnasium,or cafeteria space in a school building. The purposeof adding this statement to the standard is to estab-lish that the standard is not intended to supplant therequirements for the normal use of the space. Forinstance, determination of occupant load for the useof the space as a shelter does not change the occu-pant load of the space in its “normal” function.

104.2 Dedicated facilities. Where a facility is designed to beoccupied solely as a storm shelter, the designated occupancyshall be A-3 as defined by the International Building Code®

for purposes of determination of applicable requirements thatare not included in this standard.

Exception: Where the facility has an occupant load of lessthan 50 persons as determined in accordance with Chapter5, the designated occupancy shall be in accordance withSection 303 of the International Building Code.

Where a facility is provided for the sole purpose offunctioning as a storm shelter, the committee deter-mined that the facility would most likely resemble aGroup A-3 facility as described in the IBC. For the2015 edition an exception was added, which recog-nizes that a relaxation of wall and ceiling finishrequirements in corridors, number of plumbing fix-tures in restrooms and bathrooms, and slope andhandrail requirements for means of egress may beappropriate for a small shelter serving at most a fewdozen people. The exception points to a provision inthe IBC that allows a building or structure used for





assembly purposes but having an occupant load lessthan 50 persons to be designated as a Group B occu-pancy rather than a Group A occupancy.

104.3 Combination storm shelters. Where the purpose of astorm shelter is to provide protection from both tornadoes andhurricanes, the entire storm shelter shall be designed and con-structed using the most restrictive requirements for each haz-ard.This provision is consistent with the general philoso-

phy of building codes and standards regarding theapplicability of multiple provisions concerning an ele-ment or elements of construction. In cases where thestandard establishes a specific requirement for a spe-cific shelter, that requirement is applicable even if it isless restrictive than a general requirement specifiedelsewhere in the standard. However, in all cases, themost restrictive requirement applies.

SECTION 105APPLICABLE BUILDING CODE

105.1 Applicable code. Where construction of a storm shel-ter is to take place where no applicable construction codes areadopted, the provisions of the International Building Codeshall apply. In addition to the requirements provided in the stan-

dard, a storm shelter, whether single-use or multi-use, must comply with any applicable building codeprovisions adopted by the authority having jurisdic-tion. Storm shelters constructed in jurisdictions whereno state or local building code has been adoptedshould be designed and constructed to ICC 500 andthe provisions of the 2015 IBC.

SECTION 106INSPECTIONS AND STRUCTURAL OBSERVATIONS106.1 General. Construction of storm shelters and installa-tion of all equipment shall be subject to inspections in accor-dance with the applicable building code.Building inspections are one of the more important

functions of the building department or authority hav-ing jurisdiction. The authority having jurisdiction isauthorized to inspect the work for which a permit hasbeen issued and requires that the work to beinspected remain accessible until inspected andapproved. Typical building department inspectionsinclude footings and foundations, concrete slabs,framing, and fire-resistant construction. Wheremechanical, electrical and plumbing systems arerequired and included in the plans, rough-in inspec-tions must be requested and approved before theconstruction moves forward.

The goal of a storm shelter is to provide life safetyprotection from wind events exceeding those nor-mally designed for under building codes; therefore, ahigher level of scrutiny is called for during the designand construction phases for storm shelters. To pro-

vide this oversight, the standard calls for specialinspection over and above those typically mandatedby the building code and authority having jurisdiction,and it additionally calls for independent peer reviewfor large community storm shelters or storm sheltersserving critical facilities.

106.1.1 Peer review. A peer review by an independent regis-tered design professional for compliance with the require-ments of Chapters 3, 5, 6 and 7 shall be conducted for thefollowing storm shelter types:

1. Community shelters with an occupant load greater than50.

2. Storm shelters in elementary schools, secondaryschools, and day care facilities with an occupant loadgreater than 16.

3. Storm shelters in Risk Category IV (essential facilities)as defined in Table 1604.5 in the International BuildingCode.

Surveys of storm shelter installations after hurricanesand tornadoes and reviews of construction docu-ments during the design phase for storm sheltershave uncovered issues, such as inadequate design,specification of noncompliant opening protectivedevices, insufficient useable space, and inadequateanchoring to foundations. For this reason, ICC 500requires peer review by an independent registereddesign professional for shelters serving certain popu-lations or facilities.

The original edition of ICC 500 triggered a peerreview for community shelters with an occupant loadgreater than 300. That trigger was reduced in this edi-tion to greater than 50 persons in recognition of thefact that storm shelters for many critical facilities,such as schools, police and fire stations, and emer-gency operation centers, may hold less than 300occupants. To further capture shelters associatedwith critical and essential facilities, explicit peerreview requirements were added for educational facil-ities (e.g., elementary, middle and high schools andday care centers) and essential facilities (e.g., emer-gency operation centers, hospitals, and power-gener-ating facilities) in addition to the existing requirementfor larger community shelters. The scope of the peerreview was also extended to include means of egressand accessibility (Chapter 5), fire safety (Chapter 6),and ventilation, sanitation facilities, and lighting(Chapter 7). These additional criteria are deemedequally important to providing the desired level of pro-tection to occupants of the shelter.

The peer review should be completed by designprofessionals with experience in the specific areas ofpractice under review. Where review involves specifictechnical fields outside the competence of the individ-ual or firm performing the peer review, review ofthose specific areas should be conducted by designprofessionals (associates, consultants, and employ-ees) who are qualified by education and experiencein the applicable technical field. Thus, a peer review





may involve multiple individual reviewers or designprofessional firms. The peer reviewers should not bethe same design professionals who provide structuralobservation in accordance with Section 106.4.

Item 3 refers specifically to a storm shelter con-structed in or accessory to a Risk Category IV build-ing or structure (essential facility). IBC Table 1604.5specifies what uses qualify a building or structure asRisk Category IV. While the IBC includes “designatedearthquake, hurricane or fire shelters” in Risk Cate-gory IV, it is not the intent of the IBC or ICC 500 torequire a storm shelter or its host building bedesigned as Risk Category IV unless the occupancyor use of the host building would otherwise requiresuch a classification. This has been clarified by a for-mal ICC interpretation (ICC 2013).

106.1.2 Peer review report. Where a peer review is requiredby Section 106.1.1, a signed and sealed report shall be sub-mitted to the authority having jurisdiction with the construc-tion documents identified in Section 107 prior to issuance ofa permit for construction. The report shall fully describe theitems reviewed, their compliance or non-compliance withapplicable codes and standards, and recommend acceptanceor rejection of the storm shelter design, or modifications torender the design acceptable.This section specifies the required contents of the

peer reviewer’s report and requires submission of thesigned-and-sealed report to the code official at thesame time the construction documents are submittedfor review and permitting. The report should includedetailed descriptions of the items reviewed, whetheror not the items are compliant with the applicablestandards and codes, and whether or not the stormshelter design is acceptable. If not acceptable, thereport should also include recommendations to makeit acceptable.

106.2 Special inspections. Special inspections shall be pro-vided for construction and installation of materials asrequired by the authority having jurisdiction in accordancewith the applicable building code and Section 106.3 of thisstandard.The authority to require special inspections, to spec-

ify the extent, number and timing of special inspec-tions, and to approve special inspectors rests with theauthority having jurisdiction, typically the local build-ing department. The authority having jurisdiction hasthe power to require additional special inspectionsnot detailed in the standard or in IBC Section 1705, orto waive any special inspection requirements of theIBC where permitted by IBC Section 1702. The spe-cial inspections of Section 106.3 cannot be waivedexcept in the limited case specified in the standard foranchorage of residential storm shelters. Specialinspection is usually desirable for, and specified for,construction activities requiring unique expertise orwhere additional assurance of quality beyond thestandard building department inspections is deemednecessary. Common special inspections required bythe building code include concrete placement,

masonry construction, welding of structural members,and installation of high-strength bolts.

The IBC provides requirements for the qualificationof special inspectors, their retention by the owner orthe engineer or architect of record, the duties andresponsibilities of the special inspector, and the tim-ing of special inspections (continuous versus peri-odic). With the exception of long-span trusses, theIRC does not require special inspection, nor does itprovide specific requirements. Definitions of specialinspector and special inspection are provided inChapter 2 for cases where a storm shelter is installedin a building governed by the IRC or where no build-ing code is adopted. It is noted that the design criteriafor storm shelters exceed the limits of the prescriptivestructural provisions of the IRC. Thus, the IBC shouldbe considered to govern the design of the storm shel-ter, its structural elements, and its components, andspecial inspections per Chapter 17 of the IBC shouldbe provided.

106.2.1 Inspection of fabricators. Where fabrication ofstructural load-bearing and debris-impact-resistant compo-nents and assemblies is being performed on the premises of afabricators shop, special inspection of the fabricator shall beprovided.

Exception: Prefabricated or panelized storm shelter com-ponents that have been inspected and labeled by anapproved agency meeting the requirements of the applica-ble building code.

Special inspections required by the building code orthis standard apply to components, elements, orassemblies manufactured off-site in a fabricator’sshop, as well as to work performed on the buildingsite. Typically, this would require the special inspec-tor to travel to the fabricator’s shop as well as visitingthe job site, or a special inspector in closer proximityto the fabricator’s shop be retained. The exceptionrequires a shop-fabricated storm shelter or compo-nent of a storm shelter to be inspected by anapproved agency and to have a label indicating theshelter or component complies with the requirementsof ICC 500 and any applicable test standards.

106.3 Special cases. Special inspections shall be provided forproposed work comprised of:

1. Construction materials and systems that are alternativesto traditional materials and systems prescribed by theapplicable code.

2. Unusual design and construction applications.3. Anchors post-installed in hardened concrete and

masonry, when used for anchorage of shelter compo-nents forming a part of the shelter enclosure or foranchorage of the shelter structure to foundations shallbe in accordance with Section 106.3.1.

This edition of the standard adds requirements forspecial inspection of certain anchors. In particular,special inspections are required for post-installedanchors used to attach storm shelters to existing





slabs-on-grade (e.g., a prefabricated residential shel-ter installed in a garage) as well as storm sheltersprovided in new construction but whose anchors arenot installed until after the concrete for the new foun-dation has been set. Special inspection is alsorequired for post-installed anchors used to attachshelter components such as door frames or openingprotective devices to masonry or to existing oralready-placed and hardened concrete walls, roofs,or other concrete or masonry components of shelters.

106.3.1 Special inspections to verify anchor installation.Special inspection shall be provided to verify the post-installed anchor installation and capacity as specified inaccordance with Section 107.2.1. For post-installed anchor-age to foundations, special inspection shall be provided toverify foundation adequacy in accordance with Sections 308.

Exception: For residential shelters, where the authorityhaving jurisdiction verifies that the anchorage and, whererequired, the foundation complies with the requirements ofthe shelter design as provided in documentation requiredby Section 107, special inspection is permitted to bewaived by the authority having jurisdiction.

Existing slab-on-grade foundations, particularly thoseprovided in residential buildings, are typically not ade-quate to resist the extreme wind loads associatedwith a storm shelter. Therefore, the adequacy of theexisting slab must be verified through engineeringcalculations, and the slab must comply with the mini-mum slab thickness and minimum steel reinforce-ment requirements of the standard. In addition toinstalling a storm shelter on an adequate slab, post-installed applications require extra attention to bepaid to anchorage capacity, location, and properinstallation. The installation of post-installed anchorsshould always be performed in accordance with thespecifications within the manufacturer’s printed instal-lation instructions. If installers of storm shelters finddifferent conditions in the field than required asshown on the storm shelter design plans, they shouldcontact the designer and determine the appropriatecourse of action.

It is important for a special inspector to verify thatthe foundation being used, anchor specifications, andanchor locations are consistent with the design plans.Post-installed anchors typically depend on adhesivebonding for pull-out resistance, making the perfor-mance of the connection highly dependent on theinstallation. Furthermore, whenever an existing slabis used as the foundation for a storm shelter, the spe-cial inspector should ensure the adequacy of the slabto resist the wind loads acting on the storm shelter.

An exception allows the special inspection require-ments to be waived for residential storm shelters ifthe authority having jurisdiction verifies that the foun-dation and anchoring complies with the installationrequirements for the storm shelter. Particularly inrural areas, owners of dwellings or other residentialbuildings may have difficulty locating engineers, engi-neering firms or third-party inspection agencies to

perform special inspections. In these cases, the localbuilding official or authority having jurisdiction isresponsible for ensuring the installation of the stormshelter complies with the construction documents andmanufacturer’s installation instructions before grant-ing a waiver for the special inspection.

The shelter designer or installer should provide allnecessary information, including engineering calcula-tions verifying the adequacy of the slab, documenta-tion of the slab thickness and any required steelreinforcement, and data on any other relevant exist-ing conditions, to the authority having jurisdictionprior to construction or installation of the storm shel-ter.

106.4 Structural observations. During construction of com-munity shelters, the building owner shall employ a registereddesign professional to conduct visual observations of the con-struction of the structural system for general conformance tothe approved construction documents at significant construc-tion stages and at completion of the construction of the struc-tural system. Structural observation shall not obviate the needfor other inspections or testing required by this standard orthe applicable building code.

Deficiencies shall be reported in writing to the owner andto the authority having jurisdiction. At the conclusion of thework, the registered design professional who made the struc-tural observations shall submit to the authority having juris-diction a written statement that the site visits have been madeand shall identify any reported deficiencies that, to the best ofthe structural observer’s knowledge, have not been resolved.This section requires the building owner to retain a

registered design professional to visually observe theconstruction of the structural system for general con-formance with the approved construction documents.These observations should take place at significantconstruction stages such as just prior to concreteplacement when reinforcing can be seen, and whenthe structural system is completed (but before anywall, roof or ceiling finishes are installed). Structuralobservations do not eliminate the need for buildingdepartment inspections, or for special inspectionsand testing, as specified by the standard or the appli-cable building code. The language on reporting defi-ciencies is consistent with the requirements forspecial inspections in Section 106.2.

For many projects the engineer of record will alsobe retained by the owner to provide constructionphase services such as structural observations. Theengineer of record should provide a schedule identi-fying the frequency and extent of structural observa-tions to the owner and the authority havingjurisdiction. IBC Section 1704 requires submission ofthis schedule to the authority having jurisdiction.

SECTION 107CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

107.1 General. Where required by the authority having juris-diction, construction documents shall be prepared. Such doc-





uments shall contain information as required by theapplicable building code and this section.Not all jurisdictions require detailed construction doc-

uments, particularly for one- and two-family residen-tial projects governed by the IRC. Given the higherperformance requirements and expectations for astorm shelter, preparation of construction documentsfor the storm shelter are recommended. Constructiondocuments are usually required for storm sheltersfunded by Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA) mitigation grants or other similar programs.

Building codes contain specific requirements forpermit submittal documents. Construction drawings,specifications and other documentation should besufficient to describe the structure in the permit appli-cation. A general statement such as “all work mustcomply with ICC 500” is not an acceptable substitutefor showing the required information. Most jurisdic-tions require two sets of building plan documents tobe submitted: one approved document to be retainedby the building official and another returned to theapplicant and available on-site to reference forinspections.

107.2 Information required. The following informationapplicable to construction and operation of the storm sheltershall be supplied as part of the construction documents.This section specifies the information that should be

provided in the construction documents. Complete,detailed plans and specifications should be submittedto the authority having jurisdiction for each stormshelter design. At a minimum, the design parametersused in the structural design of the storm shelter andother key life safety requirements listed in Section107.2.1 should be provided in the construction docu-ments. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing detailsshould also be provided. In addition, for communityshelters, ADA requirements should be shown.

To ensure that the proper design criteria have beenapplied and to facilitate peer review, the design infor-mation in Section 107.2.1 should ideally be providedon a single sheet; however, some rules of conductand codes of ethics may constrain a design profes-sional from providing criteria, plans or details on con-struction documents they prepare, sign and seal thatare outside their area of practice or were not pre-pared under their direct supervision. Also, multipledesign professionals may be involved in a project;therefore, the architectural, structural and mechanicalcriteria may appear on different drawings. The testreports documenting compliance with the pressureand missile impact tests also will be separate fromany construction drawings.

107.2.1 Design information. For the areas of a buildingdesigned for occupancy as a storm shelter, the followinginformation shall be provided within the construction docu-ments:

1. Type of shelter: Residential or community tornado,hurricane or a combination of both.

2. A statement that the wind design conforms to the pro-visions of the ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design andConstruction of Storm Shelters, with the edition yearspecified.

3. The shelter design wind speed, mph. 4. The wind exposure category (indicate all if more than

one is used). 5. The internal pressure coefficient, GCpi. 6. The topographic factor, Kzt. 7. The directionality factor, Kd. 8. A statement that the shelter has/has not been con-

structed within an area susceptible to flooding inaccordance with Chapter 4 of this standard.

9. The Design Flood Elevation and Base Flood Elevationfor the site (if applicable).

10. Documentation showing that components of the shel-ter envelope will meet the pressure and missile impacttest requirements identified in Chapters 3 and 8 of thisstandard.

11. A floor plan drawing or image indicating location ofthe storm shelter on a site or within a building or facil-ity; including a drawing or image indicating the entirefacility.

12. A storm shelter section or elevation indicating theheight of the storm shelter relative to the finishedgrade, finished floor and the host building, whereapplicable.

13. The lowest shelter floor elevation and correspondingdatum, except for residential shelters outside of spe-cial flood hazard areas.

14. The occupant load of the storm shelter.15. The usable storm shelter floor area.16. Venting area (square inches) provided and locations in

the shelter.17. Calculations for the number of sanitation facilities for

community shelters.18. Minimum foundation capacity requirements.19. Shelter installation requirements, including anchor

location and minimum required capacity for eachanchor.

20. For hurricane shelters, the rainfall rate of the roof pri-mary drainage system.

21. For hurricane shelters, the rainfall rate of the roof sec-ondary (overflow) drainage system where required.

22. For hurricane shelters, the rainwater drainage designrainfall rate for facilities subject to rainwaterimpoundment.

This section lists all of the design criteria to be clearlyidentified on the storm shelter plans or otherwiseincorporated into the construction documents. Theseinclude the location of the storm shelter in the build-ing, the wind design criteria, design flood elevationand lowest floor elevation for compliance with this





standard and National Flood Insurance Programrequirements, roof drainage criteria, ventilation areaand number of toilets required.

Also required, and new to this edition of the stan-dard, are criteria for shelter foundation connectionsand capacity. Providing these criteria help ensureproper anchoring of shelters, particularly prefabri-cated shelters that are the predominant choice forresidential storm shelters, on foundations with suffi-cient capacity to resist uplift and overturning from tor-nado and hurricane winds. The shelter installationrequirements (Item 19) should provide the manufac-turer’s information and product details so that theinstallers can ensure that they are using the anchorsspecified by the designer and following the manufac-turer’s printed installation instructions.

While the information listed in this section may typi-cally be located throughout shelter construction docu-ments, designers are encouraged to try to group thisinformation together as much as possible in order tofacilitate access to key information by installers,inspectors, building officials, peer reviewers andother applicable parties.

107.2.2 Enclosure. When a storm shelter is to be constructedas a portion of a host building, the walls and floors enclosingthe shelter shall be clearly indicated on the drawings.This section requires clear identification of the pro-

tected storm shelter area when constructed as part ofa host building. By clearly labeling where the stormshelter is located on the plans, floor plans can beshared with other relevant parties such as homeown-ers (for residential applications) and administratorsand management of buildings (for community appli-cations) to ensure that the correct areas are beingused for shelter.

107.2.3 Signage. The type and location of signs required bythis standard shall be indicated on the floor plans.Signs have a very important role in facilitating the

ability of building occupants to locate the storm shel-ter in an emergency, and therefore this small detailneeds to be highlighted in the plans and specifica-tions. To that end, this standard calls out this require-ment so that proper planning and verification ofcompliance is facilitated.

107.2.4 Inspections. Where any special details are utilized inthe design of the structure, or where any special investiga-tions are required in addition to those required by the applica-ble building code, the construction documents shall contain aschedule of the inspections required and the criteria for thespecial installation.This requirement is consistent with, and somewhat

redundant, the requirements of the IBC for specialinspections for special cases. Again, this call out ismade to advise the designer to make sure that themyriad of special details are listed for inspection toallow verification and planning for proper execution ofthe design.

107.2.5 Special details. The construction documents shallprovide or include any special manufacturer’s details orinstallation instructions for systems or equipment designedfor the storm shelter.See the commentary to Section 107.2.4.107.2.6 Special instructions. The construction documentsshall provide or include any special details or special instruc-tions required for the functional operation of the storm shel-ter, such as:

1. Type and location of equipment and amenitiesrequired within the shelter, including water supply,sanitary facilities, fire extinguishers, batteries, flash-lights, special emergency lighting equipment or anyother equipment required to be installed in the shelter.

2. Specifications for any alarm system to be installed.3. Instructions for the installation or deployment of any

special protection equipment such as shutters, screens,special latching of doors or windows, any equipmentor switching for mechanical, electrical and plumbingequipment.

This section calls for specifications, and the plansexplicitly call out instructions for important life safetyequipment that might be necessary in the shelter.

107.3 Quality assurance plan. The construction documentsfor community shelters shall contain a quality assurance planin accordance with Sections 107.3.1 through 107.3.3.This section provides minimum quality assurance

requirements for the construction of community stormshelters. These are essentially the same require-ments given in the IBC for quality assurance of mainwindforce-resisting systems and roof and wall com-ponent and cladding. These requirements supple-ment the testing and inspection requirementscontained in the referenced standards given in othersections of the code. The wind provisions of the codeare written to rely heavily on the concept of qualitycontrols for good construction. The quality assuranceprogram should cover both the materials used in thestorm shelter and the construction methods used tobuild or install the storm shelter.

107.3.1 Detailed requirements. A quality assurance planshall be provided for the following:

1. Roof cladding, soffits and roof framing connections. 2. Wall connections to roof and floor diaphragms and

framing. 3. Roof and floor diaphragm systems, including connec-

tors, drag struts and boundary elements. 4. Main windforce-resisting systems, including braced

frames, moment frames and shear walls. 5. Main windforce-resisting system connections to the

foundation. 6. Fabrication and installation of components and assem-

blies of the shelter envelope required to meet missileimpact test requirements of Chapter 3.





7. Wall cladding and wall cladding connections. 8. Corrosion resistance or protection of exposed metal

connectors providing load path continuity. 9. Critical support systems and connections and debris

impact protection of the components and connections.10. Foundation design.11. Prefabricated shelter installation requirements, includ-

ing anchor location and minimum required capacityfor each type of anchor.

12. Prefabricated shelter minimum foundation capacityrequirements.

This section designates the systems that the qualityassurance plan must address. The systems requiredto be covered by the quality assurance plan are thosewhose performance are critical to the structural per-formance of the shelter during a tornado or hurricane.Similar to the requirements for design informationprovided on the construction plans (Section 107.2.1),the detailed requirements listed in this section includeminimum foundation capacity and shelter installationrequirements; however, this section also explicitlyincludes the foundation design, which applies to bothprefabricated and site-built shelters. Therefore, pre-fabricated community storm shelters must have qual-ity assurance plans that provide a prescriptivefoundation design, and the installers must ensure thatthe foundation provided by the designer is con-structed as specified.

107.3.2 Quality assurance plan preparation. A qualityassurance plan prepared by a registered design professionalshall be provided for each main wind force resisting systemand each wind-resisting component.The quality assurance plan shall identify the following:

1. The main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components.

2. The special inspections and testing to be required inaccordance with Section 106.2.

3. The type and frequency of testing required.4. The type and frequency of special inspections

required.5. The structural observations to be performed in accor-

dance with Section 106.4.6. The required distribution, type and frequency of

reports of test, inspections and structural observations.The quality assurance plan must be prepared by a

registered design professional. It may be a very sim-ple listing of elements of each system designated asimportant enough to receive special inspections ortesting. The extent and duration of the inspectionsmust be set forth in the quality assurance plan, aswell as the specific tests and frequency of testingrequired.

107.3.3 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor respon-sible for the construction, fabrication or installation of a main

windforce-resisting system or any component listed in thequality assurance plan shall submit a written statement ofresponsibility to the authority having jurisdiction, the respon-sible design professional and the owner prior to the com-mencement of work on the system or component. Thecontractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain:

1. Acknowledgement of awareness of the special require-ments contained in the quality assurance plan.

2. Acknowledgement that control will be exercised toobtain compliance with the construction documents.

3. Procedures for exercising control within the contrac-tor’s organization, the method and frequency of report-ing and the distribution of reports.

4. Identification and qualifications of the person(s) exer-cising such control and their position(s) in the organiza-tion.

Exception: Fabrication of storm shelter components thathave been inspected and labeled by an approved agency asmeeting the requirements of the applicable building codeand this standard.

The authority having jurisdiction must approve thequality assurance plan and must obtain from eachcontractor a written statement that he or she under-stands the requirements of the quality assurance planand will exercise the necessary control to obtain con-formance. The exact methods of control are theresponsibility of individual contractors, subject toapproval by the authority having jurisdiction; how-ever, special inspections of the work are required inspecific situations to provide the authority havingjurisdiction reasonable assurance that there is com-pliance with the approved construction documents.

The extent of the qualifications of the contractorand subcontractors can vary considerably. The qual-ity assurance plan, therefore, is an opportunity toidentify those areas of special concern that must beaddressed during the construction process, includingbut not limited to, types of testing, frequency of test-ing, types of inspections, frequency of inspectionsand the extent of the structural observations to beperformed. As detailed in Sections 107.3.1 and107.3.2, a statement of responsibility is required fromevery contractor fabricating or installing a componentof the shelter’s main windforce-resisting system, forany component or cladding element exposed to thewind loads specified in the standard, and for impact-resistant components, impact-protective systems andother critical support systems.

The exception is logical given that manufacturersof prefabricated components have a quality controlprogram for their products and are required to providea label on prefabricated assemblies in conjunctionwith a third-party inspection agency. While installersare not responsible for the fabrication of componentsthat have already been inspected and labeled by anapproved agency, they are responsible for properinstallation that follows the manufacturer’s instruc-tions.





SECTION 108DESIGN INFORMATION SIGNAGE AND LABELING

108.1 Design information. All shelters shall have a sign onor within the shelter with the name of the manufacturer orbuilder of the shelter and the storm type(s) and respectivedesign wind speed(s). The sign shall remain legible and visi-ble.This section specifies the minimum criteria for storm

shelter signage. The sign, which can be locatedeither outside or inside the storm shelter, shouldremain “visible and legible.” Text and graphics on thesign should be large enough to be readable, and thesign should not be painted over or hidden from view.Information provided on the sign should include thename of the manufacturer or builder of the stormshelter, whether the storm shelter is a hurricane shel-ter, tornado shelter, or both, and the design windspeed (or speeds) used for the storm shelter. Chapter5 provides additional signage requirements for com-munity shelters, including the requirement for signageto comply with ICC A117.1. Examples of the signagerequired by this section can be found in FEMA P-361(2014).

Only one sign on or within the shelter is required toprovide all of the information required by this section.Other signage is not required to repeat all of the man-ufacturer details and design criteria or to comply withICC A117.1 unless otherwise required by ICC 500 orthe applicable building code.

108.2 Labeling. Impact-protective systems shall be labeleddenoting compliance with this standard. Other than impact-protective systems, products, materials or systems shall belabeled by an approved agency when required by the applica-ble code or jurisdiction.This section specifies the requirements for labeling of

impact-protective systems and other shelter compo-nents or systems that require labeling. Labeling forimpact-protective systems should include the nameor logo of the testing agency, the test missile size andspeed, test pressure, and other required performancecharacteristics. An example of a typical label for animpact-resistant door can be found in FEMA P-361.Some manufacturers provide a label on both the doorslab and the door frame. This emphasizes that theimpact-resistant door assembly acts as a system toresist wind and impact loads.

As noted in the definition of “Labeled” in Section202, a label must be applied by a “nationally recog-nized testing laboratory, approved agency, or otherorganization concerned with product evaluation thatmaintains periodic inspection of the production” oflabeled items (which, as this section notes, mustinclude impact-protective systems and may alsoinclude other components of the shelter as deter-mined by the applicable building code). An “approvedagency” would be determined by the authority havingjurisdiction. Chapter 8 also provides requirementsthat the testing must be done by a qualified lab, andSection 106.2.1 calls for regular inspection on fabri-

cators but with an exception if the storm shelter com-ponents have been inspected and labeled by anapproved agency; therefore, the intent of the stan-dard with respect to both testing of shelter compo-nents and the labeling of those components is thatthe testing and labeling must be performed by a third-party testing agency that complies with all require-ments in ICC 500.

BibliographyThe following resource materials were used in thepreparation of the commentary for this chapter of thestandard.Federal Emergency Management Agency (2014). Tak-

ing Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe Room forYour Home or Small Business, FEMA P-320, Wash-ington, DC.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (2015). SafeRooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidancefor Community and Residential Safe Rooms, FEMAP-361, Washington, DC.

Waller, J. E. and Kiesling, E. W. “Building Codes andStorm Shelter Safety”, Building Safety Journal,August 2003, International Code Council, p. 19.




SECTION 201GENERAL

201.1 General. For the purposes of this standard, the termslisted in Section 202 shall have the indicated meaning.201.2 Undefined terms. The terms not specifically definedin this standard or in standards referenced herein shall haveordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

SECTION 202DEFINITIONS

APPLICABLE CODE. The regulation for design and build-ing construction of buildings and structures adopted by theauthority having jurisdiction over the construction of the spe-cific shelter.AREAS OF CONCENTRATED FURNISHINGS. Theareas of a storm shelter with furniture or fixtures that cannotbe moved easily, including areas such as bathrooms, lockerrooms and rooms with fixed seating or fixed tables.AREAS OF UNCONCENTRATED FURNISHINGS. Theareas of a storm shelter with furniture or fixtures that can bemoved easily, including areas such as classrooms and offices.AREAS OF OPEN PLAN FURNISHINGS. The areas of astorm shelter that are generally free of furniture or fixturesthat cannot be moved easily and of interior partitions or otherfeatures that block movement through, or otherwise subdi-vide, the space.AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION. The organiza-tion, political subdivision, office or individual charged withthe responsibility for administering and enforcing the provi-sions of this standard.COLLAPSE HAZARDS. See “Hazards, Collapse.”CRITICAL SUPPORT SYSTEMS. Structures, systemsand components required to ensure the health, safety andwell-being of occupants. Critical support systems include, butare not limited to, potable and waste water systems, electricalpower systems, life safety systems and HVAC systems.DESIGN WIND PRESSURE. The wind pressure on a spe-cific location of the shelter envelope, as determined in accor-dance with Section 304, Wind Loads, which controls the

design of components and cladding (C & C) of the shelterenvelope or the main wind-force resisting system (MWFRS)for the shelter.FIRE BARRIER. A fire-resistance-rated vertical assemblyof materials designed to restrict the spread of fire in whichopenings are protected.HAZARDS.

Collapse. Debris from wind damage to adjacent, tallerstructures that could fall onto the shelter.Laydown. Nearby structures such as towers or large treesthat could fall onto the shelter, if the shelter is within thelaydown radius of the structure.Rollover. Vehicles and small buildings, such as temporaryclassroom buildings, that could roll over due to extremewinds and impact the shelter.

HOST BUILDING. A building that is not designed or con-structed as a storm shelter that totally or partially encloses, oris connected to, a storm shelter. IMPACT-PROTECTIVE SYSTEM. A system or devicesuch as a shutter, door or other device mounted on the insideor outside of the exterior wall of a shelter that has beendemonstrated by testing to be capable of withstanding theimpact of test missiles as detailed in this standard.INTERIOR SURFACE OF THE SHELTER COMPO-NENT. The inside surface of any structural component of thestorm shelter envelope.LABEL. An identification applied on a product by the manu-facturer that contains the name of the manufacturer, the func-tion and performance characteristics of the product ormaterial, and the name and identification of an approvedagency and that indicates that the representative sample of theproduct or material has been tested and evaluated by anapproved agency.LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which hasbeen affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark ofa nationally recognized testing laboratory, approved agencyor other organization concerned with product evaluation thatmaintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the

Chapter 2:Definitions

General CommentsThe words or terms defined in this chapter are deemedto be of some importance in either specifying the sub-ject matter of the standard’s technical provisions or ingiving meaning to certain terms used throughout the

standard for administration or enforcement. The user ofthe standard should become familiar with the termsfound in this chapter because these definitions can helpclarify the provisions of the standard and facilitate betterunderstanding and interpretation of the provisions of thestandard.

