top 10 code questions of 2015

Flad Architects of 5 Flad Code Forum Notes : DD Month YYYY

Flad Code Forum Notes 22 January 2016 1. Code Forums

a. Notes of past code forums are posted at : i. Flad Home Page / Resources / Codes / Forums / Year / Date of Forum.

b. This Code Forum will Discuss : Top 10 Code Questions of 2015. c. Additional information is contained in attached power point slides: PP-pages.

Top 10 Code Questions of 2015 – Refer to PP-01 through PP-85 2. Countertop height for employee lounge : PP-03 – PP10

a. Q : Would a 36" high countertop with a sink in an employee lounge be compliant? b. A : No, the countertop containing the sink must be 34" AFF and the sink must also be

fully accessible. c. Explanation :

i. Although the ADA requires employee work areas to be accessible for "approach, entry, and exit", it does not require individual employee work surfaces to be "fully accessible." The ADA does not consider "breakrooms and lounges" as employee work areas.

ii. Employee spaces used for purposes other than job-related tasks (breakrooms, lounges, parking, shower and locker rooms, etc.) are considered "common use" and are required to be fully accessible.

d. Recommendations : Modify the L-shaped countertop and sink in Lounge-303 per one of the following options. i. Option A : Lower the countertop containing the 2-compartment sink from 36" to 34". ii. Option B : Lower the countertop containing the 2-compartment sink and a portion of

the countertop to the corner from 36" to 34". iii. Option C : Lower the entire countertop from 36" to 34".

3. What is a “Fixture”? : PP-11 – PP15 a. Q : Can a folding shower seat (in the down position) impede on the 60"x56" clear floor b. space at a toilet? c. A: It depends. ICC ANSI 117.1 (2009) indicates on Fig. 604.3 that "Other fixtures not

allowed within this area." d. Explanation :

i. Some AHJ's may make a literal interruption of the word "fixture" based on the following definition : "a piece of equipment or furniture that is fixed in position in a building."

ii. The term "fixture" is not defined in ICC ANSI 117.1. iii. Discussion w/the AHJ

(1) An AHJ could argue that since "plumbing" is not part of 604.3, any fixed piece of equipment meets the definition of "fixture" and is not allowed.

(2) You could argue that since the seat can be folded up and located out of the way, that it is compliant. The AHJ could agree or disagree with this argument.

(3) I believe this code requirement ("Other fixtures not allowed within this area.") is meant to restrict plumbing fixtures (e.g. lavatories, bides, etc.) and not all other toilet specialties (e.g. toilet seat cover dispenser) from this clear floor space.

4. Shower Seats : PP-16 – PP-27 a. Q1 : Is a (permanent) shower seat required in accessible shower compartments or in an

open shower “space?” b. A1 : No. c. Explanation :


i. The accessibility standards (ANSI-A117.1 - 2009 & ADA Standards - 2010) do not require that a seat in a shower be provided. The standards have specific requirements for where a seat is provided in a shower compartment dependent if the shower compartment meets the definition of a “transfer-type shower compartment”, a “standard roll-in-type shower compartment”, or an “alternate roll-in-type shower compartment.”

ii. The ADA does provide an advisory pertaining to shower head and controls for showers without seats : (1) Advisory 608.5.2 Standard Roll-in Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-

in type showers without seats, the shower head and operable parts can be located on any of the three walls of the shower without adversely affecting accessibility.

iii. One could infer from this advisory that seats are not required in standard roll-in type shower compartments.

d. Q2 : If an open shower “space” does not meet the definitions of a “transfer-type shower compartment”, a “standard roll-in-type shower compartment”, or an “alternate roll-in-type shower compartment,” is it still required to be accessible?

e. A2 : Yes. f. Explanation :

i. These standards do not differentiate between a shower “compartment” and an open shower “space.”

ii. It could be argued that since the standards do not specifically address open shower “spaces,” that these spaces would only have to meet the general accessibility requirements (e.g. clear floor spaces, reach ranges, etc.) and not the ones specific to shower “compartments.”

g. Q3 : If an open shower “space” is required to be accessible, what are the accessible requirements it needs to meet?

h. A3 : See Explanation below. i. Explanation :

i. In addition to the general accessibility requirements, the following specific requirements shall be met : (1) Portable shower seat

(a) Height : 17” min – 19” max (b) Width : 30” (minimum shwr compartment) – (1.5” + 3”) = 25.5” minimum (c) Depth : 15” – 2.5” = 12.5” (minimum) (d) Structural Strength : vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds

(2) Grab Bars (a) Since a permanent (fixed or folding) shower seat is not required and will not

be provided, the required grab bars to facilitate transferring would also not be required.

(b) Since the HC provider plans on providing a portable shower seat and plans on staff in assisting the patient in the transfer process, the required grab bars to facilitate transferring would again not be required. If a “convenience” grab bar is provided, it would need to meet 609 Grab Bars.

(3) Hand Showers (a) Hose 59” minimum in length with a control with a nonpositive shut-off feature.

(4) Controls (a) Mounting Height : 38” minimum - 48” maximum (b) Since a permanent seat is not required and will not be provided, there is not a

horizontal dimensional range that the controls have to be installed from a wall and/or centerline of a seat.

5. Door Swings : PP-28 – PP-33


a. Q : In the accessible toilet room example, is the toilet partition door allowed to swing into the clear space of the toilet accessory (recessed in wall)?

b. A : No. c. Explanation :

i. ANSI-A117.1 (2009) and the ADA (2010) both prohibit doors from swinging into the “clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.” (1) Door Swing. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance for any

fixture. ii. These standards do not differentiate nor exclude “toilet compartment doors” in this

“door” requirement. iii. These standards have additional sections that address “toilet compartment doors”

but do not provide additional guidance on door swings encroaching into “clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.”

iv. Both standards allow for door swings to overlap into turning spaces. 6. Temporary HVAC Intake Duct : PP-34 – PP-43

a. Q : What code issues need to be considered for a temporary (during construction) fresh air intake duct & louver to be installed from the basement of a hospital, up the exterior face of the building, and to the roof?

b. A : The outdoor air intake louver would be required to meet the clearances from all exhaust and vent discharges. The exterior (non-bearing) walls are NOT required to be fire-resistance rated (FRR) so any penetration (e.g. duct) of the exterior (non-bearing) wall would NOT involve a damper. The Means of Egress (from the NE Stair to the Public Way) would need to be maintained.

c. Explanation : i. The (temporary) outdoor air intake louver location on the 4th floor roof is required to

have a 25'-0" clearance from all exhaust and vent discharges (per the Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities) and be a minimum 3'-0" above the surface of the roof (ANSI/ASHRAE /ASHE Standard 170).

7. Opening Protectives in FB/SB : PP-44 – PP-57 a. Q : An AHJ thinks that doors in Fire Barriers (FB) cannot be held pen, is he correct? b. A : No. c. Explanation :

i. Since the (6) openings (1001a, 1001b, C1510a, C1510b, C2300a, C2300b) are protecting a fire-resistance-rated (FRR) construction assembly which serves as both a Smoke Barrier (for the I-2's smoke compartment) and also as a Fire Barrier (providing occupancy separation), it must meet the requirements of both FRR construction code sections.

ii. A single FRR assembly can serve multiple purposes which is allowable by both the IBC and LSC.

iii. AHJ responded by saying that smoke activation for doors in a fire barrier is not indicated in IBC (2009) 715.4.8.3 Smoke Activated Doors. This code section talks about openings in smoke barriers, fire partitions, fire walls, but does not specifically reference "fire barrier". (1) Response : The intent of the code is to set forth minimum acceptable levels to

safeguard public health, safety, and welfare. Section 715.4.8.3 requires “automatic-closing doors installed (14) specific locations (FB is not included) to “automatic-close by the actuation of smoke detectors or by loss of power to the smoke detector or hold-open device.” This section does not limit this automatic activation from occurring at other locations.

iv. AHJ responded by saying that he has seen most Won Doors in fire barriers, just stay shut -- he thinks because of this code section....he thinks you are not allowed to hold open the Won Doors in a fire barrier.


(1) Response : Openings in FB’s are restricted in size by 707.6 but all other requirements must meet 715 which requires fire doors to be self- or automatic closing but does not restrict fire doors from being held open.

8. Shaft Enclosures (Top/Bottom) : PP-58 – PP-67 a. Q : What are the different requirements for shaft enclosures for top versus bottom

conditions? b. A : The IBC (2012) requirement for shaft enclosures is Section 713 Shaft Enclosures.

This section specifically addresses enclosing shafts at the bottom (713.11 Enclosure at the bottom) and at the top (713.12 Enclosure at top). Section 713.11 provides (3) methods for protecting the bottom of the shafts (a horizontal rated assembly, a rated room, or a fire damper). This section also lists (3) exceptions which address 1, 2, or all 3 methods. Section 713.12 provides only (1) method (a horizontal rated assembly) for protecting the top of the shaft. It does not allow the other (2) methods (a rated room or a fire damper) that are listed for protecting the bottom of the shafts. This section does not list any exceptions.

c. IBC Commentary i. Proper shaft enclosures must include all sides and the top unless the top of the shaft

is also the roof of the building. Because the purpose of the shaft is to limit the spread of fire within the building, when the top of the shaft extends to the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab, or the shaft extends above the roof line, then the code does not require any type of fire-resistance rating or protection of openings at the top.

ii. The fire-resistance rating for the top of the shaft must not be less than the required fire resistance of the shaft enclosure from the slab upwards (see Figure 708.12). The required rating for the top of the shaft that extends to the sheathing or roof deck must be consistent with the requirements of Table 601 and Section 712 for roof construction. The top of the shaft must be constructed using a horizontal assembly (see Section 712) with the proper fire-resistance rating. It is not permissible to simply take a fire barrier, such as the assembly used for the shaft wall, and turn it horizontally.

iii. The code is silent on whether or not a fire damper is appropriate for use to enclose the top of a shaft. Fire dampers are expressly permitted to be used at the bottom of a fire-resistance-rated shaft in Section 708.11. The damper listing should be reviewed before any damper is installed at this location.

9. Washable vs Scrubbable : PP-68 – PP-78 a. Q : Are ceilings in a PACU supply room and an equipment room (accessible from the

restricted corridor) in a hospital required to be washable? b. A : Ceilings in the equipment room accessible from the restricted corridor are required

(by the Guidelines) to be scrubbable but ceilings are not required to be washable for the PACU supply room.

c. Explanation i. The Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities (2010) uses the

terms "washable", "scrubbable" and "capable of withstanding cleaning with chemicals" when referencing the clean-ability of finishes (walls, floors, & ceilings).

ii. The following spaces shall have ceilings that are "scrubbable" : (1) Semirestricted areas

(a) Clean corridors (b) Soiled workroom or holding room (c) Clean equipment / supply storage (d) Equipment alcoves (off of the clean corridor) (e) Central sterile supply spaces (f) Scrub areas (g) Specialized radiographic rooms


(h) Minor surgical procedure rooms (2) Restricted areas

(a) Operating rooms (b) Clean core area

(3) Others (a) Dietary areas (b) Laundry areas (c) Decontamination areas

iii. The term "washable" is only used in the following section : (1) Wall finishes. Wall finishes shall be washable. In the vicinity of plumbing fixtures,

wall finishes shall be smooth and water-resistant. (2) The term "cleanable" (for ceilings) is required for NICU's and Protective

Environment (PE) rooms. 10. Panic Hardware : PP-79 – PP-84

a. Q : When is panic hardware required? b. A : Doors w/a latch or lock serving any Group H occupancy and Groups A & E

occupancies w/an occupant load over 50. c. Explanation :

i. The applicable “doors serving M” would require panic hardware throughout the Means of Egress path : (1) from the exit access (originating assembly room(s) to the corridor), (2) to the exits (e.g. stairs), (3) and finally to the exit discharge (e.g. exterior stair door).

T:\twyatt\Code\Code Forums\2016 0122\2016 0122 Code Forum Notes.docx

F L A D C O D E F O R U M

TOP 10

Code Questions of 2015

01/22/2016 Flad Code Forum 1

Top 10 Code Questions (2015)

• Accessibility

– Countertop height for

employee lounge

– What is a “Fixture”?

– Shower Seats

– Door Swings

• Mechanical

– HVAC Intake Duct

• FRR Assemblies

– Opng Prot in FB/SB

– Shaft Enclosures

• HC Guidelines

– Washable vs Scubbable

• Means of Egress

– Panic Hardware


Countertop height for employee lounge



I would like to verify an ADA question pertaining to a clinic lounge countertop height. We are doing a local clinic and was originally told that the countertop at the sink in the lounge can be 3'-0"H because it isn't a 'publicly used space.' Whereas the hospitality counter needs to be 2'-10" in the waiting room. Is that correct? The final shops for the casework are being done now and I want to make sure this is correct to alleviate any redmarks by a building inspector.

Response : Could you send me a PDF of the area in question and the link to the project folder?



Q : Would a 36" high countertop with a sink in

an employee lounge be compliant?



Explanation : Although the ADA requires

employee work areas to be accessible for

"approach, entry, and exit", it does not require

individual employee work surfaces to be "fully

accessible." The ADA does not consider

"breakrooms and lounges" as employee work

areas.



Recommendation : Modify the L-shaped countertop and sink in Lounge-303 per one of the following options.

– Option A : Lower the countertop containing the 2-compartment sink from 36" to 34".

– Option B : Lower the countertop containing the 2-compartment sink and a portion of the countertop to the corner from 36" to 34".

– Option C : Lower the entire countertop from 36" to 34".



References

ADAAG, as issued under titles of the ADA (II and III) covering public access, makes a distinction between public or common use areas, which must be fully accessible, and areas used only by employees as work areas. Access is required to, not fully within, work areas in part because the ADA (title I) treats access for employees with disabilities as an accommodation made when the need arises. Employee spaces used for purposes other than job-related tasks (breakrooms, lounges, parking, shower and locker rooms, etc.) are considered "common use" and are required to be fully accessible. Work areas that also function as public use space, such as patient exam rooms, must be fully accessible for public access; fixtures and controls within used only by employees are not required to comply.

In a health care facility for example, spaces used by the public typically include waiting and reception areas, exam and diagnostic rooms, doctors’ offices, and restrooms. Breakrooms and employee restrooms are considered common use areas and are required to be fully accessible although restrooms serving the individual of a specific space, such as a doctor’s office, are permitted to be "adaptable" (i.e., designed so that certain elements can be added or altered for access after construction). Areas used only by employees as work areas include business or administrative offices and the receptionist side of counters, research facilities, supply rooms and laboratories.

Work areas must be accessible for "approach, entry, and exit," which means location on an accessible route so that people using wheelchairs can enter and back out of the space. This includes accessible entry doors or gates.

Recommendations: Space for turning within the work area and interior maneuvering clearances at doors, while not required, should be considered, especially where entrapment may be a concern (i.e., entry doors with closers); interior door clearances are recommended where space for full entry and turning is available within a work area. Maneuvering space and accessible or adaptable elements (e.g, work surfaces) will facilitate accommodation of employees. For this reason, it is recommended that where multiple work stations of the same type are provided (e.g., ticket and toll booths) at least 5 percent be fully accessible.



Q : Would a 36" high countertop with a sink in

an employee lounge be compliant?

A : No, the countertop containing the sink must

be 34" AFF and the sink must also be fully

accessible.


What is a “Fixture”?



Q : Can a folding shower seat (in the down

position) impede on the 60"x56" clear floor

space at a toilet?



Some AHJ's may make a literal interruption of the word "fixture" based on the following definition : "a piece of equipment or furniture that is fixed in position in a building."

The term "fixture" is not defined in ICC ANSI 117.1 but it is used to describe the following :– 603.2.2 Door Swing. Doors shall not swing into the floor space or clearance for any fixture.

– 604.1 General. Accessible water closets and toilet compartments shall comply with Section 604. Compartments containing more than one plumbing fixture shall comply ...

– 1002.9 Operable Parts. Lighting controls, electrical panelboards, electrical switches and receptacle outlets, environmental controls, appliance controls, operating hardware for operable windows, plumbing fixturecontrols ...

– 1003.9 Operable Parts. Lighting controls, electrical panel boards, electrical switches and receptacle outlets, environmental controls, appliance controls, operating hardware for operable windows, plumbing fixturecontrols ...

– 1003.11.2.1 Doors. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.

– 1003.11.2.5 Bathing Fixtures. The accessible bathing fixture shall be a bathtub ...

– 1004.9 Operable Parts. 7. Plumbing fixture controls.

– 1004.11.2.1 Doors. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.

– 1004.11.3.1 Option A. Each fixture provided shall comply with Section 1004.11.3.1.

– FIG. 1004.11.3.1.3.1 a) Water closet location. Edge of clearance, fixture or other obstruction.

– 1004.11.3.2.3 Bathing Fixtures. The accessible bathing fixture shall be a bathtub ...

– Index : Plumbing Fixture : See also ... Drinking fountain, Sink, Lavatory, Water closet, Bathtub, Shower, Kitchen & Kitchenette



• An AHJ could argue that since "plumbing" is not part of 604.3, any fixed piece of equipment meets the definition of "fixture" and is not allowed.

• You could argue that since the seat can be folded up and located out of the way, that it is compliant. The AHJ could agree or disagree with this argument.

• I believe this code requirement ("Other fixtures not allowed within this area.") is meant to restrict plumbing fixtures (e.g. lavatories, bides, etc) and not all other toilet specialties (e.g. toilet seat cover dispenser) from this clear floor space.

• I would recommend running this issue by the AHJ for his/her interpretation.



Q : Can a folding shower seat (in the down

position) impede on the 60"x56" clear floor

space at a toilet?

A: It depends. ICC ANSI 117.1 (2009) indicates

on Fig. 604.3 (below) that "Other fixtures not

allowed within this area."


Shower Seats


Shower Seats

• Q1 : Is a (permanent) shower seat required in accessible shower compartments or in an open shower “space?”

• Q2 : If an open shower “space” does not meet the definitions of a “transfer-type shower compartment”, a “standard roll-in-type shower compartment”, or a “alternate roll-in-type shower compartment,” is it still required to be accessible?

• Q3 : If an open shower “space” is required to be accessible, what are the accessible requirements it needs to meet?


Shower Seats


Shower Seats

Q1 : Is a (permanent) shower seat required in accessible shower compartments or in an open shower “space?”

A1 : No.

Explanation

The accessibility standards (ANSI-A117.1 - 2009 & ADA Standards - 2010) do not require that a seat in a shower be provided. The standards have specific requirements for where a seat is provided in a shower compartment dependent if the shower compartment meets the definition of a “transfer-type shower compartment”, a “standard roll-in-type shower compartment”, or an “alternate roll-in-type shower compartment.”

The ADA does provide an advisory pertaining to shower head and controls for showers without seats :

Advisory 608.5.2 Standard Roll-in Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-in type showers without seats, the shower head and operable parts can be located on any of the three walls of the shower without adversely affecting accessibility.

One could infer from this advisory that seats are not required in standard roll-in type shower compartments.


Shower Seats

Q2 : If an open shower “space” does not meet the definitions of a “transfer-type shower compartment”, a “standard roll-in-type shower compartment”, or a “alternate roll-in-type shower compartment,” is it still required to be accessible?

A2 : Yes.

Explanation

These standards do not differentiate between a shower “compartment” and an open shower “space.”

It could be argued that since the standards do not specifically address open shower “spaces,” that these spaces would only have to meet the general accessibility requirements (e.g. clear floor spaces, reach ranges, etc) and not the ones specific to shower “compartments.”


Shower Seats

Q3 : If an open shower “space” is required to be accessible, what are the accessible requirements it needs to meet?

A3 : See Explanation below.

Explanation

In addition to the general accessibility requirements, the following specific requirements shall be met :

• Portable shower seat– Height : 17” min – 19” max

– Width : 30” (minimum shwr compartment) – (1.5” + 3”) = 25.5” minimum

– Depth : 15” – 2.5” = 12.5” (minimum)

– Structural Strength : vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds

• Grab Bars– Since a permanent (fixed or folding) shower seat is not required and will not be provided, the required grab bars to facilitate

transferring would also not be required.

– Since the HC provider plans on providing a portable shower seat and plans on staff in assisting the patient in the transfer process, the required grab bars to facilitate transferring would again not be required. If a “convenience” grab bar is provided, it would need to meet 609 Grab Bars.

• Hand Showers– Hose 59” minimum in length with a control with a nonpositive shut-off feature.

• Controls– Mounting Height : 38” minimum - 48” maximum

– Since a permanent seat is not required and will not be provided, there is not a horizontal dimensional range that the controls have to be installed from a wall and/or centerline of a seat.


Shower Seats

In reviewing the shower “spaces,” it provides adequate room for the minimum 30”x48” clear floor space parallel (see leftshwr room) to the shower controls (C) and it also provides the minimum 30”x60” shower space per a parallel approach and also a perpendicular approach (see right shwr room) to the shower controls (C).


Shower Seats


Door Swings


Door Swings

• Q : In the accessible toilet room example, is the toilet partition door allowed to swing into the clear space of the toilet accessory (recessed in wall)?


Door Swings

Explanation

ANSI-A117.1 (2009) and the ADA (2010) both prohibit doors from swinging into the “clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.”

Door Swing. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.

These standards do not differentiate nor exclude “toilet compartment doors” in this “door” requirement.

These standards have additional sections that address “toilet compartment doors” but do not provide additional guidance on door swings encroaching into “clear floor space or clearance for any fixture.”

Both standards allow for door swings to overlap into turning spaces.


Door Swings

• Q : In the accessible toilet room example, is the toilet partition door allowed to swing into the clear space of the toilet accessory (recessed in wall)?

• A : No.


Door Swings


Temporary HVAC Intake Duct



• A question has arisen on <Project>;– They need to run a temporary HVAC intake duct from the

basement to above roof level of the existing hospital. The duct will be run vertically on the outside of the building. It will bi-pass exterior windows.

– Is this a 'shaft'?

– Do they need to provide a rated separation between the duct and the window?

• Response : Could you provide additional information what this proposed "intake duct" supplies ... a mechanical plan of the "final" layout and/or a sketch of what this temporary duct will be serving would be helpful.



The temporary duct will supply an air handling unit located in the basement of the existing hospital. It is currently served by intake from an exterior wall louver at the first floor level (duct runs up through a shaft from basement to first floor with exterior wall louver). The louver faces the new tower construction area and thus needs to be relocated and extended to roof level to avoid construction dust. The final plan has a new duct in a interior shaft running from basement to roof.



Q : What code issues need to be considered for a temporary (during construction) fresh air intake duct & louver to be installed from the basement of a hospital, up the exterior face of the building, and to the roof?

Applicable Codes– International Building Code (2003)

– International Mechanical Code (2009)

– National Electric (2011)

– Uniform Plumbing Code (2012)

– IEBC (2009)

– Uniform Fire Code (1997)

– NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2000)

– NFPA 99: Health Care Facilities, 1999

– Guidelines for Health Care Facilities (2010)

Construction Type– Type I (332) per NFPA

– Type I-A per IBC


Keynote A : The (temporary) outdoor air intake louver location on the 4th floor roof is required to have a 25'-0" clearance from all exhaust and vent discharges (per the Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities) and be a minimum 3'-0" above the surface of the roof (ANSI /ASHRAE /ASHE Standard 170).


Keynote B : As the (temporary) outdoor air intake duct passes down the exterior side of the

existing building, it passes the existing ICU department and the perimeter ICU patient rooms. Per

the Guidelines 3.4.2.1 Patient care areas, critical care patient rooms are required to have "not less

than one outside window in each patient bed area" so the location of the duct must take this into

account. Per the attached 3rd Floor Plan, the proposed duct is shown centered on the non-vision

glass panel between the (2) adjacent ICU patient rooms.


Keynote C : The 2nd floor steps back so it is not known if the (temporary) outdoor air intake duct would step back also or if it would continue vertically from its location above.


Keynote D : The 1st floor steps back also. Depending on the duct transition from the 2nd floor, the duct at this level would probably follow the underside of the 2nd floor to the existing exterior face of the Chapel. Per the supplied sketch (see Page 3 on the attached), it appears that the duct terminates at grade at the 1st Floor level.

The Means of Egress from the existing NE Stair 16S50, out Corridor 1610, through the Exit Discharge, and to the Public Way must be maintained.


Keynote E : How the temporary duct connects to the 48x96 Outside Air Intake Plenum at the lower level is unknown. We recommend that the "mechanical contractor" who is "responsible for temporary provisions to keep the existing AHU's in operation and maintain outdoor air intake" submit construction drawings detailing all aspects of the temporary duct, including mounting details to the existing exterior envelope, to the Design Team for their review.



Q : What code issues need to be considered for a temporary (during construction) fresh air intake duct & louver to be installed from the basement of a hospital, up the exterior face of the building, and to the roof?

A : The outdoor air intake louver would be required to meet the clearances from all exhaust and vent discharges. The exterior (non-bearing) walls are NOT required to be fire-resistance rated (FRR) so any penetration (e.g. duct) of the exterior (non-bearing) wall would NOT involve a damper. The Means of Egress (from the NE Stair to the Public Way) would need to be maintained.

Applicable Codes– International Building Code (2003)

– International Mechanical Code (2009)

– National Electric (2011)

– Uniform Plumbing Code (2012)

– IEBC (2009)

– Uniform Fire Code (1997)

– NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2000)

– NFPA 99: Health Care Facilities, 1999

– Guidelines for Health Care Facilities (2010)

Construction Type– Type I (332) per NFPA

– Type I-A per IBC


Opening Protectives in FB/SB



If you can believe this - we are still "discussing" Won Doors at <Flad Project> with <AHJ>. Today, the <AHJ> is saying that the Won Doors in our building are in a fire barrier, and currently they are activated by a smoke detector. He says that smoke activation for doors in a fire barrier is not indicated in IBC (2009) 715.4.8.3 Smoke Activated Doors (see snippet below). This code section talks about openings in smoke barriers, fire partitions, fire walls, but does not specifically say "fire barrier". The <AHJ> is saying that he has seen most Won Doors in fire barriers, just stay shut -- he thinks because of this code section....he thinks you are not allowed to hold open the Won Doors in a fire barrier.

Could you help provide me with information to use in our response?



Applicable Codes2009 International Building Code (IBC)

2000 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (LSC)

Occupancy(IBC/LSC) : I-2/New Health Care & Business/New Business Occupancy

RESPONSE

… since the (6) openings (1001a, 1001b, C1510a, C1510b, C2300a, C2300b) are protecting this fire-resistance-rated (FRR) construction assembly which serves as both a Smoke Barrier (for the I-2's smoke compartment) and also as a Fire Barrier (providing occupancy separation), it must meet the requirements of both FRR construction code sections.



A single FRR assembly can serve multiple purposes

which is allowable by both the IBC and LSC :

– IBC (2012, 2009 does not contain this section)

• 701.2 Multiple use fire assemblies. Fire assemblies that serve

multiple purposes in a building shall comply with all of the

requirements that are applicable for each of the individual

fire assemblies.

– LSC

• 8.3.3 Fire Barrier Used as Smoke Barrier. A fire barrier shall

be permitted to be used as a smoke barrier, provided that it

meets the requirements of 8.3.4 through 8.3.6.



SECTION 707 FIRE BARRIERS

– 707.6 Openings. Openings in a fire barrier shall be

protected in accordance with Section 715.

SECTION 710 SMOKE BARRIERS

– 710.5 Openings. Openings in a smoke barrier shall

be protected in accordance with Section 715.

• Exception 2. In Group I-2, horizontal sliding doors

installed in accordance with Section 1008.1.4.3 and

protected in accordance with Section 715.



SECTION 715 OPENING PROTECTIVES

– 715.4 Fire door and shutter assemblies. Approved fire door and fire shutter assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Section 715.4.1, 715.4.2 or 715.4.3 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 715.4.

– 715.4.8 Door closing. Fire doors shall be self- or automatic-closing in accordance with this section.

• Explanation : A fire door with a standard closer and no hold-open capability is called ‘self-closing.’ Fire doors that close per the fire alarm are ‘automatic-closing.’



SECTION 715 OPENING PROTECTIVES

– 715.4.8 Door closing.

• 715.4.8.3 Smoke-activated doors. Automatic-closing

doors installed in the following locations shall be

automatic-closing by the actuation of smoke detectors

installed in accordance with Section 907.3 or by loss of

power to the smoke detector or hold-open device.

Doors that are automatic-closing by smoke detection

shall not have more than a 10-second delay before the

door starts to close after the smoke detector is

actuated:



SECTION 715 OPENING PROTECTIVES– 715.4.8 Door closing.

• 715.4.8.3 Smoke-activated doors. – 1. Doors installed across a corridor.

– 2. Doors that protect openings in exits or corridors required to be of fire-resistance-rated construction.

– 3. Doors that protect openings in walls that are capable of resisting the passage of smoke in accordance with Section 508.2.5.2.

– 4. Doors installed in smoke barriers in accordance with Section 710.5.

– 5. Doors installed in fire partitions in accordance with Section 709.6.

– 6. Doors installed in a fire wall in accordance with Section 706.8.

– 7. Doors installed in shaft enclosures in accordance with Section 708.7.

– 8. Doors installed in refuse and laundry chutes and access and termination rooms in accordance with Section 708.13.

– 9. Doors installed in the walls for compartmentation of underground buildings in accordance with Section 405.4.2.

– 10. Doors installed in the elevator lobby walls of underground buildings in accordance with Section 405.4.3.

– 11. Doors installed in smoke partitions in accordance with Section 711.5.3.



He says that smoke activation for doors in a fire barrier is not indicated in IBC (2009) 715.4.8.3 Smoke Activated Doors (see snippet below). This code section talks about openings in smoke barriers, fire partitions, fire walls, but does not specifically say "fire barrier".

Response : The intent of the code is to set forth minimumacceptable levels to safeguard public health, safety, and welfare. Section 715.4.8.3 requires “automatic-closing doors installed (14) specific locations (FB is not included) to “automatic-close by the actuation of smoke detectors or by loss of power to the smoke detector or hold-open device.” This section does not limit this automatic activation from occurring at other locations.



The <AHJ> is saying that he has seen most Won Doors in fire barriers, just stay shut -- he thinksbecause of this code section....he thinks you are not allowed to hold open the Won Doors in a fire barrier.

Response : Openings in FB’s are restricted in size by 707.6 but all other requirements must meet 715 which requires fire doors to be self- or automatic-closing but does not restrict fire doors from being held open.


Shaft Enclosures (Top/Bottom)



Q : What are the different requirements for

shaft enclosures for top versus bottom

conditions.


Shaft Enclosures (Top/Bottom)713.11 Enclosure at the bottom.

Shafts that do not extend to the bottom of the building or structure shall comply with one of the following:

1. They shall be enclosed at the lowest level with construction of the same fire-resistance rating as the lowest floor through which the shaft passes, but not less than the rating required for the shaft enclosure.

2. They shall terminate in a room having a use related to the purpose of the shaft. The room shall be separated from the remainder of the building by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating and opening protectives shall be at least equal to the protection required for the shaft enclosure.

3. They shall be protected by approved fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing at the lowest floor level within the shaft enclosure.


Shaft Enclosures (Top/Bottom)713.11 Enclosure at the bottom.

Exceptions:

1. The fire-resistance-rated room separation is not required, provided there are no openings in or penetrations of the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building except at the bottom. The bottom of the shaft shall be closed off around the penetrating items with materials permitted by Section 718.3.1 for draftstopping, or the room shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

2. 2. A shaft enclosure containing a refuse chute or laundry chute shall not be used for any other purpose and shall terminate in a room protected in accordance with Section 713.13.4.

3. 3. The fire-resistance-rated room separation and the protection at the bottom of the shaft are not required provided there are no combustibles in the shaft and there are no openings or other penetrations through the shaft enclosure to the interior of the building.



713.12 Enclosure at top.

A shaft enclosure that does not extend to the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab of the building shall be enclosed at the top with construction of the same fire-resistance rating as the topmost floor penetrated by the shaft, but not less than the fire-resistance rating required for the shaft enclosure.



Q : What are the different requirements for shaft enclosures for top versus bottom conditions.

A : The IBC (2012) requirement for shaft enclosures is Section 713 Shaft Enclosures. This section specifically addresses enclosing shafts at the bottom (713.11 Enclosure at the bottom) and at the top (713.12 Enclosure at top).

Section 713.11 provides (3) methods for protecting the bottom of the shafts (a horizontal rated assembly, a rated room, or a fire damper). This section also lists (3) exceptions which address 1, 2, or all 3 methods.

Section 713.12 provides only (1) method (a horizontal rated assembly) for protecting the top of the shaft. It does not allow the other (2) methods (a rated room or a fire damper) that are listed for protecting the bottom of the shafts. This section does not list any exceptions.



Staff Response

– This is a bit worrisome as it doesn’t seem to allow an internal mechanical room to provide duct distribution in a downward direction, without having a solid ‘shaft’ running up through the mechanical room to the slab above and dampers in the ducts as they enter the shaft. This shaft to the floor above will occupy a fair amount of space within the mechanical room.

– We’re told from our MEP Engineers that they have frequently left the ‘top’ penetration open to the mechanical room.



Response :

One could argue that the mechanical room/floor is essentially an extension of the shaft. As long as the mechanical room/floor is separated from the remainder of the building with the same fire resistance rating as the shaft, the danger of fire and/or smoke (from the shaft and/or the mechanical room) affecting adjacent, non-mechanical spaces is minimized.

If the AHJ points out that this is not an appropriate “enclosure at the top” solution, explain that the shaft is not actually “terminating” at the floor level of the mechanical room since the walls of the mechanical room, which do extend to the underside of the rated floor above, are essentially an extension of the shaft. The 2003 IBC contains language referring to components that are “necessary for the purpose of the shaft.”



AHJ interpretation :

“Section 707.12 of the 2003 IBC and Section 708.12 of the 2009 IBC both allow for shaft termination at the top (within a room) that is separated from the remainder of the building as long as the area is separated with the same fire rating as the shaftrequirement.”



IBC Commentary

Proper shaft enclosures must include all sides and the top unless the top of the shaft is also the roof of the building. Because the purpose of the shaft is to limit the spread of fire within the building, when the top of the shaft extends to the underside of the roof sheathing, deck or slab, or the shaft extends above the roof line, then the code does not require any type of fire-resistance rating or protection of openings at the top.

The fire-resistance rating for the top of the shaft must not be less than the required fire resistance of the shaft enclosure from the slab upwards (see Figure 708.12). The required rating for the top of the shaft that extends to the sheathing or roof deck must be consistent with the requirements of Table 601 and Section 712 for roof construction. The top of the shaft must be constructed using a horizontal assembly (see Section 712) with the proper fire-resistance rating. It is not permissible to simply take a fire barrier, such as the assembly used for the shaft wall, and turn it horizontally.

The code is silent on whether or not a fire damper is appropriate for use to enclose the top of a shaft. Fire dampers are expressly permitted to be used at the bottom of a fire-resistance-rated shaft in Section 708.11. The damper listing should be reviewed before any damper is installed at this location.


Washable vs Scrubbable



• I have two questions for you concerning the ceiling types in <Project Name> Hospital. We recently did a walk-through and in two rooms, the client representative questioned our ceiling choice. He thinks they both need to be washable. And now we are questioning them too since we state 'washable' on the plans, but the spec said non-washable.

– Situation 1: 'Supplies' room in a PACU dept.

– Situation 2: 'Equipment' room adjacent to a restricted corridor.

• Do you know anything about this?



Q : Are ceilings in a PACU supply room and an

equipment room (accessible from the restricted

corridor) in a hospital required to be washable?



The Guidelines for Design and Construction of

Health Care Facilities (2010) uses the terms

"washable", "scrubbable" and "capable of

withstanding cleaning with chemicals" when

referencing the clean-ability of finishes (walls,

floors, & ceilings).



The following spaces shall have ceilings that are "scrubbable" :– Semirestricted areas

Clean corridors

Soiled workroom or holding room

Clean equipment / supply storage

Equipment alcoves (off of the clean corridor)

Central sterile supply spaces

Scrub areas

Specialized radiographic rooms

Minor surgical procedure rooms

– Restricted areasOperating rooms

Clean core area

– OthersDietary areas

Laundry areas

Decontamination areas



• The term "washable" is only used in the

following section :

– (1) Wall finishes. Wall finishes shall be washable.

In the vicinity of plumbing fixtures, wall finishes

shall be smooth and water-resistant.

• The term "cleanable" (for ceilings) is required

for NICU's and Protective Environment (PE)

rooms.



The 2014 edition of the Guidelines has redefined the restricted and semi-restrictedareas in a surgical suite per the following :

A restricted area in a surgical suite is a designated space that can only be accessed through a semi-restricted area in order to achieve a high level of asepsis control. Traffic in the restricted area is limited to authorized personnel and patients, and personnel are required to wear surgical attire and cover head and facial hair. Masks are required where open sterile supplies or scrubbed persons may be located.

A semi-restricted area comprises the peripheral support areas surrounding the restricted area of a surgical suite. These support areas include facilities such as storage areas for clean and sterile supplies, sterile processing rooms, work areas for storage and processing of instruments, scrub sink areas, corridors leading to the restricted area, and pump rooms.

The 2014 edition of the Guidelines has also clarified that Phase I (PACU) and Phase II recovery areas are unrestricted areas.



References : Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities (2010)

2.1-7.2.3.4 Ceilings

(1) Ceilings shall be provided in areas occupied by patients and in rooms/areas used for clean utility/ supply linen, soiled utility/holding, nourishment, dietary facilities, pharmacy, central services, and laboratories and shall be cleanable with routine housekeeping equipment. Acoustic and lay-in ceiling, where used, shall not create ledges or crevices.

(2) Semirestricted areas (a) Ceiling finishes in semirestricted areas (e.g., airborne infection isolation rooms, protective environment rooms, clean corridors, central sterile supply spaces, specialized radiographic rooms, and minor surgical procedure rooms) shall be smooth, scrubbable, nonabsorptive, non perforated, capable of withstanding cleaning with chemicals, and without crevices that can harbor mold andbacterial growth.

(b) If a lay-in ceiling is provided, it shall be gasketed or each ceiling tile shall weigh at least one pound per square foot to prevent the passage of particles from the cavity above the ceiling plane into the semirestricted environment. Perforated, tegular, serrated cut, or highly textured tiles are not acceptable.

(3) Restricted areas (a) Ceilings in restricted areas (e.g., operating rooms) shall be of monolithic construction. Cracks or perforations in these ceilings shall not be permitted.

(b) Ceiling finishes shall be scrubbable and capable of withstanding cleaning and/or disinfecting chemicals.

(4) Dietary and laundry areas (a) Either a sealed monolithic and scrubbable gypsum board ceiling or a lay-in ceiling shall be provided.

(b) If a lay-in ceiling is provided, it shall include the following: (i) A rust-free grid

(ii) Ceiling tiles that weigh at least one pound per square foot and are smooth, scrubbable, nonabsorptive, non perforated, and capable of withstanding cleaning with chemicals.



References : Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities (2010)

2.2-3.1.3.6 Examination/treatment room or area

*(9) Decontamination area (c) Special architectural details

(i) The room shall have all smooth, nonporous, scrubbable, nonabsorptive, nonperforated surfaces.

A2.2-3.1.3.6 (9) Decontamination area on the exterior perimeter

Decontamination room within the facility

d. Ceiling, wall, and floor finishes shall be smooth, nonporous, scrubbable, nonabsorptive, nonperforated, capable of withstanding cleaning with and exposure to harsh chemicals, nonslip, and without crevices or seams.

2.2-2.2.4.4 Protective environment (PE) room(s).

(6) Surfaces and furnishings. All surfaces (e.g., floors, walls, ceilings, doors, and windows) shall be cleanable.

2.2-2.10 Newborn Intensive Care Unit

2.2-2.10.9 Special Design Elements

2.2-2.10.9.1 Architectural details

*(2) Ceilings

(a) Ceilings shall be easily cleanable and nonfriable.



Q : Are ceilings in a PACU supply room and an equipment room (accessible from the restricted corridor) in a hospital required to be washable?

A : Ceilings in the equipment room accessible from the restricted corridor are required (by the Guidelines) to be scrubbable but ceilings are not required to be washable for the PACU supply room.


Panic Hardware


Panic Hardware

Q : When is panic hardware required?

A : Doors w/a latch or lock serving any Group H occupancy and Groups A & E occupancies w/an occupant load over 50.

References

1008.1.10 Panic and fire exit hardware.

Doors serving a Group H occupancy and doors serving rooms or spaces with an occupant load of 50 or more in a Group A or E occupancy shall not be provided with a latch or lock unless it is panic hardware or fire exit hardware.

Exception:

– A main exit of a Group A occupancy in compliance with Section 1008.1.9.3, Item 2.

– Electrical rooms with equipment rated 1,200 amperes or more and over 6 feet (1829 mm) wide that contain overcurrent devices, switching devices or control devices with exit or exit access doors shall be equipped with panic hardware or fire exit hardware. The doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel.


Panic Hardware

The applicable “doors serving …” would require

panic hardware throughout the Means of Egress

path :

• from the exit access (originating assembly

room(s) to the corridor),

• to the exits (e.g. stairs),

• and finally to the exit discharge (e.g. exterior

stair door).


Panic Hardware


Panic Hardware

Follow-Up Question …

Q : What rooms are classified as Assembly

occupancies?

A : Any room or space used for assembly

purposes …

– with an occupant load >50 occupants OR

– an area >750 SF


Panic Hardware


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