Seattle City Council Bills and Ordinances
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Ordinance 122491
Introduced as Council Bill 116005
Title | |
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AN ORDINANCE relating to the Seattle Fire Code, adopting as the Seattle Fire Code the 2006 edition of the International Fire Code with some exceptions, amending and adding various provisions to that fire code; and amending Section 22.600.020 of the Seattle Municipal Code. |
Description and Background | |
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Current Status: | Passed |
Fiscal Note: | Fiscal Note to Council Bill No. 116005 |
Index Terms: | BUILDING-CODES, FIRE-CODES, FIRE-PROTECTION, PUBLIC-REGULATIONS |
References: | Related: CF 308908 |
Legislative History | |
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Sponsor: | LICATA | tr>
Date Introduced: | September 4, 2007 |
Committee Referral: | Public Safety, Governmental Relations and Arts |
City Council Action Date: | September 10, 2007 |
City Council Action: | Passed |
City Council Vote: | 8-0 (Excused: Drago) |
Date Delivered to Mayor: | September 11, 2007 |
Date Signed by Mayor: (About the signature date) | September 21, 2007 |
Date Filed with Clerk: | September 21, 2007 |
Signed Copy: | PDF scan of Ordinance No. 122491 |
Text | |
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ORDINANCE _________________ AN ORDINANCE relating to the Seattle Fire Code, adopting as the Seattle Fire Code the 2006 edition of the International Fire Code with some exceptions, amending and adding various provisions to that fire code; and amending Section 22.600.020 of the Seattle Municipal Code. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF SEATTLE AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Section 22.600.020 of the Seattle Municipal Code, which Section was adopted by Ordinance 121524 and amended by Ordinances 121773 and 122059, is hereby amended as follows: 22.600.020 Adoption of the International Fire Code
The following is hereby adopted and by this reference made a part of this subtitle:
The Seattle Fire Code
Wherever in this ordinance there is a conflict between metric units of measurement and English units, the English units Section 2. Section 101 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: Section 101 General
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Seattle Fire Code Throughout this code, where references are made to the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, International Fuel Gas Code and the International Existing Building Code, those references mean the Seattle version of those codes. Where the International Code Council Electrical Code Administrative Provisions are referenced, it means the Seattle Electrical Code, which is the Seattle version of the National Electrical Code. 101.2 Scope. This code establishes regulations affecting or relating to structures, processes, premises, motor vehicles, marine vessels and safeguards regarding: 1. The hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; 2. Conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; 3. Fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation; 4. Matters related to the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression or alarm systems. 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted. 101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures, premises, motor vehicles and marine vessels.
This code is enacted as an exercise of the police power of the City of Seattle to protect the public peace, health, safety and welfare, and its provisions shall be liberally construed to accomplish these purposes. The express purpose of
this code is to promote the health, safety and welfare of the general public, and not to create or otherwise establish or designate any particular class or group of persons who will or should be especially protected or benefited by the terms of this
code or ordinance.
The specific intent of this code is to place the obligation of complying with its requirements upon the owners or occupiers of premises, buildings, motor vehicles, marine vessels, and structures within its scope. No provision or term used in this code
is intended to impose any duty whatsoever upon the city, or any of its officers or employees, for whom the implementation or enforcement of this code is discretionary, not mandatory.
101.4 Severability. If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code. 101.5 Validity. In the event any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions hereof, which are determined to be legal; and it shall be presumed that this code would have been adopted without such illegal or invalid parts or provisions.
101.6 Point of Information or Code Interpretation. Text marked "Point of Information" or "Code Interpretation" in the Seattle Fire Code is for guidance only and does not have the force of law.
Section 3. Subsection 102.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to: 1. Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code. 2.Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code. A condition is not "legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code" unless the condition is in compliance with the building code and fire code of the City of Seattle in effect when the condition first arose, and the practice, process, materials used and storage configurations have not changed since the condition first arose. 3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions when identified in specific sections of this code. 4. Existing structures, facilities and conditions which, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Section 4. Subsections 102.3 and 102.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code are amended as follows:
102.3 Change of use or occupancy. No change shall be made in the use or occupancy of any structure that would place the structure in a different division of the same group or occupancy or in a different group of occupancies, unless such structure is
made to comply with the requirements of this code and the
102.4 Application of building code. The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the Section 5. Section 103 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: Section 103 DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PREVENTION 103.1 General. The department of fire prevention is established within the jurisdiction under the direction of the fire code official. The function of the department shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
103.2
103.3
part of the city by its officers, employees or agents in the course of implementing or enforcing this code.
Any lawsuit brought against the city, or its officers or employees because of acts or omissions in the implementation or enforcement of this code, or other pertinent laws, ordinances or regulations implemented through the enforcement of this code or
enforced by the fire code official , shall be defended by the city until final termination of such lawsuit, and any judgment or settlement resulting there from shall be assumed by the city as provided by Chapter 4.64 and other relevant sections of the
Seattle Municipal Code.
Limited public funds are available for the implementation and enforcement of this code. The issuance of permits, reviews of permit applications, and inspections conducted pursuant to this code are spot checks designed to encourage compliance, and are
not representations, guarantees or assurances that permits or work undertaken pursuant to issuance of permits comply with any applicable codes.
103.4.1 Legal defense. Any suit instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal representative of
the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The fire code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code; and any officer of
the department of fire prevention, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the performance of official duties in connection
therewith. Section 6. Subsection 104.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 104.3 Right of entry. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or whenever the fire code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon any premises any conditions or violations of this code which make the building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the fire code official shall have the authority to enter the building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the fire code official by this code. If such building or premises is occupied, the fire code official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such building or premises is unoccupied, the fire code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the fire code official has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
With the consent of the owner or occupier of a building, premises, motor vehicle, or marine vessel or pursuant to a lawfully issued warrant, the fire code official may enter any building, premises, motor vehicle, or marinevessel at any
reasonable time to inspect or to perform the duties authorized by this code.
Section 7. Subsection 104.6.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
104.6.2 Inspections. The fire code official shall keep a record of Section 8. Subsection 104.11.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
104.11.2 Obstructing operations. No person shall obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment, Any person who obstructs the operation of the fire department in connection with extinguishing any fire or responding to any emergency, or in the performance of other duties authorized by this code, shall be subject to the penalties set forth in Section 109 of the Seattle Fire Code. Section 9. A new subsection 104.12 is adopted to read as follows: 104.12 Motor vehicle impoundment and removal. The fire code official may order the impoundment or removal of a motor vehicle under the following conditions: 1. The motor vehicle poses an immediate hazard to public safety; or 2. The motor vehicle is transporting hazardous materials, and is left unattended on a residential street or within 500 feet (152 400 mm) of any building containing a Group A, R, E or I occupancy, including, but not limited to, any dwelling, apartment, hotel, day care, school, hospital, or health care facility; or 3. The motor vehicle contains or is carrying hazardous materials, or flammable or combustible liquids or gases, and is left unattended while transferring such materials, liquids or gases by means of hose line. The Seattle Police Department shall carry out motor vehicle impoundment orders of the fire code official in accordance with the authority of this section, Chapter 11.30 of the Seattle Municipal Code and impoundment procedures of the Seattle Police Department. Section 10. A new subsection 104.13 is adopted to read as follows: 104.13 Prohibition. The fire code official may prohibit the use, display or sale of any device, material or object that is designed to be used in such a manner as to violate any provisions of this code, or where the use or sale of such constitutes a distinct hazard to life or property. Any materials shown by test to have a life hazard greater than that indicated and controlled by building code interior finish regulations or fire code decorative material regulations is either prohibited or shall be installed or used with such additional fire safety features as are necessary to substantially reduce the life hazard. Section 11. A new subsection 104.14 is adopted to read as follows: 104.14 Standby personnel. When, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety in an assembly occupancy or any other place where people congregate, due to the number of persons, or the nature of performance, exhibition, display, contest or activity, the owner, agent or lessee shall employ one or more qualified persons, as required and approved by the fire code official, to be on duty at such place. Such individual shall be subject to the fire code official's orders at all times when so employed and shall be in uniform and remain on duty during the times such places are open to the public, or when such activity is being conducted. Such individuals shall not be required or permitted, while on duty, to perform any duties other than those specified. Section 12. Subsection 105.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.7.13.
105.1.1 Permits required. Permits required by this code shall be obtained from the fire code official prior to engaging in the activities or operations for which they are required. Permit fees, if any,
105.1.2 Types of permits. There shall be three 1. Operational permit. An operational permit allows the applicant to conduct an operation or a business for which a permit is required by Section 105.6 for either: 1.1. A prescribed period. 1.2. Until renewed or revoked.
2. 3. Temporary permit. The fire code official may issue temporary permits establishing fire safety controls for:
3.1. A time-limited activity not specifically regulated, but where regulatory safeguards are necessary because of unusual circumstances; and
3.2. Interim operation of a regulated activity at reduced scope and/or with temporary fire safeguards until permanent fire prevention features are provided. 105.1.3 Permits for the same location. When more than one permit is required for the same location, the fire code official is authorized to consolidate such permits into a single permit provided that each provision is listed in the permit. Section 13. Subsection 105.2.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 14. Subsection 105.2.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.2.3 Section 15. Subsection 105.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.3 Conditions of a permit. The fire code official may condition any permit, increasing or decreasing the scope of activity, and/or specifying fire safety provisions in addition to those established by this code, where the fire code official deems such conditions are necessary to provide reasonable public safety. A permit shall constitute permission to maintain, store or handle materials; or to conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; or to install equipment utilized in connection with such activities; or to install or modify any fire protection system or equipment or any other construction, equipment installation or modification in accordance with the provisions of this code where a permit is required by Section 105.6 or 105.7. Such permission shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of this code or other applicable regulations or laws of the jurisdiction.
105.3.1 Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed, or revoked or for such a period of time as specified in the permit.
Point of Information
Approval to occupy a building or structure is granted by the Department of Planning and Development through issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy. A Fire Department recommendation to issue an occupancy certificate
is conditional upon applicable provisions of this code being met.
105.3.2
105.3.3
105.3.4
105.3.5
105.3.6
105.3.7 Liability Insurance. Where liability insurance is required by any section of this code or as a permit condition for any controlled hazardous activity, the applicant shall file with the fire code official: 1) a "Certificate of Insurance"
showing the policy effective date, limits of liability and name of the insurance company; 2) a copy of the actual policy
endorsement designating THE CITY OF SEATTLE as an additional insured for governmental permitting and on a primary and non-contributory basis; and 3) the declaration page(s) showing the existing coverages and policy limits. The applicant's policy shall
evidence a "Comprehensive General Liability" (including automobile coverage) insurance limit of $2 million ($2,000,000), combined single limit per occurrence and annual aggregate, no deductible and naming the City of Seattle as an additional insured.
The fire code official may increase or decrease these amounts.
In those instances where this code requires, as a condition of issuing a permit, that the applicant for the license provide insurance, the purpose of the requirement is to insure that members of the public and the City will be compensated for losses
caused by personal injury or property damage resulting from the negligent acts of the licensees or their agents or employees.
Whenever the issuance of a permit is conditioned upon obtaining a policy or policies of public liability insurance by the applicant for such permit, the policy:
1. Shall be issued by a company or companies authorized to do business as an insurer in Washington State pursuant to the provisions of RCW Title 48 as now or hereafter amended;
2. Shall contain, by endorsement or otherwise, the following recital:
"This policy is issued pursuant to Section 105 of the Seattle Fire Code of the City of Seattle for the purpose of complying with the conditions and requirements of the code. Any exception, limitation, provision or omission in this policy (including
all other endorsements thereto) in conflict with such condition or requirement is void. This policy shall be continuous until canceled and terminable only on at least ten (10) days written notice to the fire code official."
3. May be approved as to sufficiency and form by the City Attorney and/or the City Risk Manager at the request of the fire code official.
105.4.1 Submittals. Construction documents shall be submitted in one or more sets and in such form and detail as required by the fire code official. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the
fire code official Section 17. Subsection 105.4.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 18. Subsection 105.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed, and a new subsection 105.5 is adopted to read as follows: 105.5 Revocation of permits and certificates 105.5.1 Non-emergency revocations, suspensions and denials of renewals. In accordance with applicable law, the fire code official may revoke, suspend or deny a request to renew any permit or certificate upon evidence submitted to the fire code official that conditions or circumstances have changed so that continued use of the permit or certificate would be unsafe. Such conditions or circumstances include, but are not limited to: 1. The permit has been used by a person other than the person to whom the permit was issued, 2. The permit has been used for a location other than that for which it was issued, 3. Any of the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit have been violated, 4. The permittee failed, refused or neglected to comply with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the provisions of this code within the time provided therein, 5. There has been a false statement or misrepresentation as to a material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or application was based, or 6. The permit was issued in error or in violation of any code, regulation or other law. The permit or certificate holder shall be notified in writing no later than five (5) business days prior to the revocation, suspension or denial of a request to renew such permit or certificate. The permit or certificate holder may request in writing a hearing before the fire code official for reconsideration of the decision to revoke, suspend or deny renewal. The request shall be filed with the fire code official by five o'clock (5:00 p.m.) of the second business day following service of the notice. The hearing shall be held no later than one (1) business day from receipt of a written request. The fire code official shall issue a final decision, in writing, sustaining, modifying or withdrawing the initial decision to revoke, suspend or deny a request to renew the permit or certificate no later than the next business day following such hearing. Further appeals shall be in accordance with Section 108 of this code. 105.5.2 Emergency Revocations, suspensions and denials of requests to renew. The fire code official may revoke, suspend or deny a request to renew a permit or certificate in emergency situations, without providing prior notice to the permit or certificate holder, when an imminent fire, life-safety or other hazard regulated by this code exists, and failure to take immediate action may cause imminent harm to humans, domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, or to the immediate or neighboring property, lands, or premises. Where such emergency is found to exist, all certificates and permits shall be surrendered to the fire code official or his/her authorized representative upon demand. Those activities sanctioned by the suspended or revoked certificates or permits will be suspended until the fire code official finds the emergency no longer exists. Persons surrendering said certificates and/or permits may appeal the fire code official's action by filing a written notice of appeal to the fire code official by five o'clock (5:00 p.m.) of the next business day following such revocation, suspension or denial or a request to renew a permit or certificate. The hearing with the fire code official shall be no later than one (1) working day from the receipt of such written appeal. The fire code official shall issue a final decision in writing, sustaining, modifying or withdrawing the initial decision to revoke, suspend or deny a request to renew the certificate or permit no later than the next business day following such hearing. Further appeals shall be in accordance with Section 108 of this code. Section 19. Subsection 105.6.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.3 Aviation facilities. An operational permit is required to use a Group H or Group S occupancy for aircraft servicing or repair and aircraft fuelservicing vehicles. Additional permits required by other sections of this code include, but are not limited to, hot work, hazardous materials and flammable or combustible finishes.
105.6.3.1 Battery systems. An operational permit is required to maintain and operate a stationary lead-acid battery systems having a an electrolyte liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189 L).
105.6.3.2 Bonfires. An operational permit is required to ignite a bonfire.
105.6.7.1 Combustible storage. An operational permit is required to store in any building or upon any premises in excess of 2,500 cubic feet (71 m3 ) gross volume of combustible empty packing cases, boxes, barrels or similar containers, rubber tires, rubber, cork or similar combustible material. Section 21. Subsection 105.6.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.9.1 Covered mall buildings. An operational permit is required for: 1. The placement of retail fixtures and displays, concession equipment, displays of highly combustible goods and similar items in the mall. 2. The display of liquidor gas-fired equipment in the mall. 3. The use of open-flame or flame-producing equipment in the mall. 105.6.9. 2 Cruise ship hazardous operations. An operational permit is required to conduct hazardous operations on a cruise ship at a passenger terminal. Example: Hot work and fuel transfers. Section 22. Subsection 105.6.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.11 Cutting and welding.
Point of Information
Cutting and welding operations, see Hot work operations. 105.6.23. Section 23. Subsection 105.6.14 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.14 Explosives. An operational permit is required for the Exception: Storage in Group R-3 occupancies of smokeless propellant, black powder and small arms primers for personal use, not for resale and in accordance with Section 3306. Section 24. Subsection 105.6.16 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.16 Flammable and combustible liquids. An operational permit is required: 1. To use or operate a pipeline for the transportation within facilities of flammable or combustible liquids. This requirement shall not apply to the offsite transportation in pipelines regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOTn) nor does it apply to piping systems. 2. To store, handle or use Class I liquids in excess of 5 gallons (19 L) in a building or in excess of 10 gallons (37.9 L) outside of a building, except that a permit is not required for the following: 2.1. The storage or use of Class I liquids in the fuel tank of a motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat, mobile power plant or mobile heating plant, or storage of approved portable motor boat fuel containers of 6 gallons (22.7 L) or less individual capacity and 12 gallons (45.4 L) aggregate capacity, unless such storage, in the opinion of the fire code official, would cause an unsafe condition. 2.2. The storage or use of paints, oils, varnishes or similar flammable mixtures when such liquids are stored for maintenance, painting or similar purposes for a period of not more than 30 days. 3. To store, handle or use Class II or Class IIIA liquids in excess of 25 gallons (95 L) in a building or in excess of 60 gallons (227 L) outside a building, except for fuel oil used in connection with oil-burning equipment. 4. To remove Class I or Class II liquids from an under-ground storage tank used for fueling motor vehicles by any means other than the approved, stationary onsite pumps normally used for dispensing purposes. 5. To operate tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants, terminals, wells, fueldispensing stations, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities where flammable and combustible liquids are produced, processed, trans-ported, stored, dispensed or used. 6. To place temporarily out of service (for more than 90 days) an underground, protected above-ground or above-ground flammable or combustible liquid tank. 7. To change the type of contents stored in a flammable or combustible liquid tank to a material which poses a greater hazard than that for which the tank was designed and constructed. 8. To manufacture, process, blend or refine flammable or combustible liquids. 9. To engage in the dispensing of liquid fuels into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments. 10. To utilize a site for the dispensing of liquid fuels from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments.
11. To store, handle or use Class III-B liquids in excess of 1,000 gallons (3785 L).
12. To engage in the business of removing, abandoning or otherwise disposing of residential heating oil tanks. Section 25. Subsection 105.6.19 the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.19 Fumigation and thermal insecticidal fogging. An operational permit is required to operate a business of fumigation or thermal insecticidal fogging and to maintain a room, vault, freight container or chamber in which a toxic or flammable fumigant is used. Section 26. Subsection 105.6.20 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.20.1 Hazardous materials. An operational permit is required to store, transport on site, dispense, use or handle hazardous materials in excess of the amounts listed in Table 105.6.20.
105.6.20.2 Hazardous materials stabilization. An operational permit is required to stabilize potentially unstable (reactive) hazardous materials.
105.6.21.1 HPM facilities. An operational permit is required to store, handle or use hazardous production materials. 105.6.21.2 Helicopter lifts. An operational permit is required to move suspended loads via helicopter over populated areas. Section 28. Subsection 105.6.23 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.23 Hot work operations. An operational permit is required for hot work including, but not limited to: 1. Public exhibitions and demonstrations where hot work is conducted.
2. Use of portable hot work equipment.
Exceptions:
1. Within Group R, Division 3 and Group U Occupancies.
2. Torch assemblies connected for use to an acetylene gas cylinder having a maximum individual capacity of 40 cubic feet (1.13 m3).
3. Approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar appliances using LP-gas in accordance with the following:
(a.)LP-gas cylinders shall comply with UL 147A, Standard for Nonrefillable (Disposable) Type Fuel Gas Cylinder Assemblies.
(b.)LP-gas cylinders shall have a maximum water capacity of 2.7 lb (1.2 kg).
(c.)The maximum aggregate water capacity of LP-gas cylinders in storage (e.g. not connected for use) and use shall not exceed 2.7 lb (1.2 kg) per control area.
4.
5. Hot work on storage tanks, piping and associated systems containing or previously containing flammable or combustible liquids, or other hazardous materials that could present a fire or explosion hazard.
6. Hot work on marine vessels.
Section 29. Subsection 105.6.27 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.27 LP-gas. An operational permit is required for: 1. Storage and use of LP-gas. Exceptions:
1. A permit is not required for individual containers with a
2. A permit is not required for LP-gas containers having a water capacity not exceeding 48 pounds [nominal 20 pounds (9 kg) LP-gas] connected to a LP-gasgrill unless at a public assembly or on or serving a public way.
3. A permit is not required for storage of up to three spare forklift containers each having a maximum individual water capacity of 104 pounds (10 gallons LPgas). 2. Operation of cargo tankers that transport LP-gas. Section 30. Subsection 105.6.29 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.29 Marine terminal. An annual operational permit is required to handle or temporarily locate containers, tanks, or cylinders of hazardous materials at marine terminals located within the Seattle city limits.
Section 31. Subsection 105.6.31 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.31 Open flames and torches.
Point of Information
See section 105.6.23, which requires a permit for all hot work. Section 32. Subsection 105.6.32 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 105.6.32 Open flames and candles. An operational permit is required to use open flames or candles in connection with assembly areas, dining areas of restaurants or drinking establishments.
Point of Information
Open flame and candle permit conditions are included in assembly permits at no additional fee. Section 33. Subsection 105.6.34 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.34
occupant load of 100 or more
105.6.34.1 Temporary assembly occupancy. Temporary alterations to the existing means of egress, character or use of any facility used as an assembly occupancy shall be under separate temporary assembly occupancy permit.
Plans shall be submitted when required by the fire code official.
105.6.38 Refrigeration equipment. Section 35. Subsection 105.6.42 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.6.42 Storage of tires, scrap tires and tire byproducts. An operational permit is required to establish, conduct or maintain storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts that exceeds 2,500 cubic feet (71 m3) of total volume of scrap
tires and for indoor storage of tires and tire byproducts. An operational permit is also required for indoor storage of tires and tire byproducts regulated by Chapter 23.
105.6.43 Temporary membrane structures, tents and canopies. See 105.7.13.
1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping purposes.
2. Fabric canopies open on all sides which comply with all of the following:
2.1. Individual canopies having a maximum size of 700 square feet (65 m2).
2.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies placed side by side without a fire break clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) shall not exceed 700 square feet (65 m2) total.
2.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to structures and other tents shall be provided. Section 37. Subsection 105.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
105.7 Required
Point of Information
Building permits for construction are issued by the Department of Planning and Design (DPD). The fire code official does not require separate Fire Department issued installation permits for the following:
* Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
* Fire alarm and detection systems and related equipment.
* Standpipe systems.
All fire protection systems must be Confidence Tested in accordance with this code and Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety Systems.
FIRE DEPARTMENT INSTALLATION AND OPERATIONAL PERMITS
Where an installation permit is required, if an operational permit is also required, the approved installation permit is renewable annually as an operational permit.
105.7.1 Automatic fire-extinguishing systems. 105.7.2 Battery systems. A permit is required to install stationary storage battery systems having a liquid electrolyte capacity of more than 50 gallons (189 L).
105.7.3 Compressed gases. When the compressed gases in use or storage exceed the amounts listed in Table 105.6.8, an installation Exceptions: 1. Routine maintenance. 2. For emergency repair work performed on an emergency basis, application for permit shall be made within two working days of commencement of work. The permit applicant shall apply for approval to close storage, use or handling facilities at least 30 days prior to the termination of the storage, use or handling of compressed or liquefied gases. Such application shall include any change or alteration of the facility closure plan filed pursuant to Section 2701.6.3. The 30-day period is not applicable when approved based on special circumstances requiring such waiver.
105.7.4 Fire alarm and detection systems and related equipment.
105.7.5 Fire pumps and related equipment. An installation
105.7.6 Flammable and combustible liquids. An installation 1. To repair or modify a pipeline for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids. 2. To install, construct or alter tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants, terminals, wells, fuel-dispensing stations, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities where flammable and combustible liquids are produced, processed, transported, stored, dispensed or used. 3. To install, alter, remove, abandon or otherwise dispose of a flammable or combustible liquid tank.
105.7.7 Hazardous materials. An installation Exceptions: 1. Routine maintenance. 2. For emergency repair work performed on an emergency basis, application for permit shall be made within two working days of commencement of work.
105.7.8 Industrial ovens. An installation Exceptions: 1. Routine maintenance. 2. For repair work performed on an emergency basis, application for permit shall be made within two working days of commencement of work.
105.7.9 LP-gas. An installation
105.7.10 Refrigeration permit. An installation permit is required to install a mechanical refrigeration unit or system regulated by Chapter 6.
105.7.11 Spraying or dipping. An installation
105.7.12 Standpipe systems.
installation, modification, or removal from service of a standpipe system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification and does not require a permit.
105.7.13 Temporary membrane structures, tents and canopies. An Exceptions: 1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping purposes. 2. Funeral tents and curtains or extensions attached thereto, when used for funeral services.
3.1. Individual canopies shall have a maximum size of 700 square feet (65 m2).
3.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies placed side by side without a fire break clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) shall not exceed 700 square feet (65 m2) total.
3.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to structures and other tents shall be maintained. Section 38. Subsection 106.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 106.3 Concealed work. Whenever any installation subject to inspection prior to use is covered or concealed without having first been inspected, the fire code official shall have the authority to require that such work be exposed for inspection. It is the duty of both the permit applicant and contractor to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. Neither the fire code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection. Section 39. A new subsection 106.5 is adopted to read as follows: 106.5 Special inspections. The fire code official is authorized to appoint qualified persons or agencies having special technical skills as special inspectors or plan reviewers and to accept their inspection, plan review and evaluation of specialized fire protection equipment or systems. The fire code official is authorized to accept inspections performed by other jurisdictions and agencies and honor permits and certificates issued by other jurisdictions for activities regulated by this code, upon presentation to the fire code official of satisfactory evidence that such inspections, permits and certificates are substantially in accord with the fire safety requirements of this code. Section 40. Subsection 107.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 107.6 Overcrowding. Overcrowding or admittance of any person beyond the approved capacity of a building or a portion thereof shall not be allowed. The fire code official, upon finding any overcrowding conditions or obstructions in aisles, passageways or other means of egress, or upon finding any condition which constitutes a life safety hazard, shall be authorized to direct actions be taken to reduce the overcrowding or cause the event to be stopped until such condition or obstruction is corrected. Section 41. Section 108 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 108
Point of Information
For information on appeals procedures, see Seattle Fire Department Information Bulletin
Requesting a Review by the Seattle Fire Code Appeals Board at
http://www.seattle.gov/fire/FMO/firecode/infobulletins/fmoBulletins.htm
108.1 Appeals. Appeals from decisions or actions pertaining to the application and interpretation of this Code shall first be addressed to the fire code official. If not resolved with the fire code official, the appellant may submit a written
request to the fire code official for a review by the Fire Code Appeals Board in accordance with all applicable by-laws, rules, regulations and ordinances. The results of this review will be advisory only, in accordance with City of Seattle Ordinance
119799. Following receipt of the Fire Code Appeals Board recommendation the fire chief shall issue a final written decision.
108.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or an equivalent
method of protection or safety is proposed. The board shall have no authority to waive requirements of this code.
108.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to hazards of fire, explosions, hazardous conditions or fire protection systems and are not employees of the
jurisdiction. Section 42. Subsection 109.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
109.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for a person Section 43. Subsection 109.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code isamended as follows:
109.2 Notice of violation. When the fire code official finds a building, premises, vehicle, marine vessel, storage facility or outdoor area that is in violation of this code, the fire code official is authorized to
issue Section 44. Subsection 109.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
109.3
109.3.1 Alternative civil penalties. Any person
109.3.2 Alternative criminal penalty. Any person who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved
construction or installation documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor subject to the provisions of Seattle
Municipal Code Chapters 12A.02 and 12A.04, except that absolute liability shall be imposed for such a violation or failure to comply and none of the mental states described in Section 12A.04.030 need be proved. The fire code official may request the
City Attorney prosecute such violations criminally as an alternative to the civil penalties provision. Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
Section 45. A new subsection 109.4 is adopted to read as follows: 109.4 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of civil and criminal penalties, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or installation or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises. Section 46. Section 110 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 110
UNSAFE BUILDINGS, PREMISES,
MOTOR VEHICLES AND MARINE VESSELS
110.1 General. If 110.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures, premises or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, or deficient, because of inadequate means of egress or which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or which involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, which are otherwise dangerous to human life or public welfare, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. A vacant structure which is not secured against unauthorized entry as required by Section 311 shall be deemed unsafe.
110.1.2 Structural hazards. When an apparent structural hazard is caused by the faulty installation, operation or malfunction of any of the items or devices governed by this code, the fire code official 110.2 Evacuation. The fire code official or the fire department official in charge of an incident shall be authorized to order the immediate evacuation of any occupied premises, building, motor vehicle or marine vessel deemed unsafe when such premises, building, motor vehicle or marine vessel has hazardous conditions that present imminent danger to building, premises, motor vehicle or marine vessel occupants. Persons so notified shall immediately leave the structure or premises, motor vehicle or marine vessel and shall not enter or re-enter until authorized to do so by the fire code official or the fire department official in charge of the incident. * * * Section 47. Section 111 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 111 STOP WORK OR USE ORDER 111.1 Order. Whenever the fire code official finds any work or useregulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work or use order. 111.2 Issuance. A stop work or use order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, or to the owner's agent, or to the person doing the work or use. Upon issuance of a stop work or use order, the cited work or use shall immediately cease. The stop work or use order shall state the reason for the order, and the conditions under which the cited work or use is authorized to resume. 111.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work or use.
111.4 Failure to comply. It is a violation of this code for
Section 48. Subsection 201.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the International Building Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code or Section 49. A new subsection 201.5 is adopted to read as follows: 201.5 References to Other Codes. Whenever an International Code is referenced in this code, it shall mean the Seattle edition of that code, including local amendments. References to the "building code", "fire code", "mechanical code" and "plumbing code" mean the Seattle editions of those codes. Whenever the International Code Council Electrical Code Administrative Provisions are referenced it shall mean the Seattle edition of that code, which is the National Electrical Code with Seattle amendments. Section 50. Section 202 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended by amending the definitions of the following terms under "Occupancy Classification:" Educational Group E; Institutional Group I and Residential Group R, as follows: [W] [B] Educational Group E. Educational Group E occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, by six or more persons at any one time for educational purposes through the 12th grade. Religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums, which are accessory to places of religious worship in accordance with Section 508.3.1 of the International Building Code and have occupant loads of less than 100, shall be classified as Group A-3 occupancies. Day care. The use of a building or structure, or portion thereof, for educational, supervision or personal care services for more than five children older than 21/2 years of age shall be classified as an E occupancy. Exception: Family child day care homes licensed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for the care of twelve or fewer children shall be classified as group R-3. * * * [W] [B] Institutional Group I. Institutional Group I occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, in which people, cared for or living in a supervised environment and having physical limitations because of health or age, are harbored for medical treatment or other care or treatment, or in which people are detained for penal or correctional purposes or in which the liberty of the occupants is restricted. Institutional occupancies shall be classified as Group I-1, I-2, I-3 or I-4. Group I-1. This occupancy shall include buildings, structures or parts thereof housing more than 16 persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment that provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Alcohol and drug centers Assisted living facilities Congregate care facilities Convalescent facilities Group homes Half-way houses Residential board and care facilities Social rehabilitation facilities
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons and adult family homes licensed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the
A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in the Seattle Building Code Section 310.1 regulated by either the Washington State Department of Health or the Department of Social and Health Services shall be classified as Group R-2. [W] [B] Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis of more than five persons who are not capable of self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Hospitals Nursing homes (both intermediate care facilities and skilled nursing facilities) Mental hospitals Detoxification facilities.
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the
A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Seattle Building Code Section 310.1 regulated by either the Washington State Department of Health or the Washington State Department of Social and
Health Services shall be classified as Group R-2.
A child care facility that provides care on a 24-hour basis to more than five children 2-1/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-2. Group I-3. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures which are inhabited by more than five persons who are under restraint or security. An I-3 facility is occupied by persons who are generally incapable of self-preservation due to security measures not under the occupants' control. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Correctional centers Detention centers Jails Prerelease centers Prisons Reformatories Buildings of Group I-3 shall be classified as one of the occupancy conditions indicated below: Condition 1. This occupancy condition shall include buildings in which free movement is allowed from sleeping areas and other spaces where access or occupancy is permitted, to the exterior via means of egress without restraint. A Condition 1 facility is permitted to be constructed as Group R. Condition 2. This occupancy condition shall include buildings in which free movement is allowed from sleeping areas and any other occupied smoke compartment to one or more other smoke compartments. Egress to the exterior is impeded by locked exits. Condition 3. This occupancy condition shall include buildings in which free movement is allowed within individual smoke compartments, such as within a residential unit comprised of individual sleeping units and group activity spaces, where egress is impeded by remote-controlled release of means of egress from such smoke compartment to another smoke compartment. Condition 4. This occupancy condition shall include buildings in which free movement is restricted from an occupied space. Remote-controlled release is provided to permit movement from sleeping units, activity spaces and other occupied areas within the smoke compartment to other smoke compartments. Condition 5. This occupancy condition shall include buildings in which free movement is restricted from an occupied space. Staff-controlled manual release is provided to permit movement from sleeping units, activity spaces and other occupied areas within the smoke compartment to other smoke compartments. [W] Group I-4, day care facilities. This group shall include buildings and structures occupied by persons of any age who receive custodial care for less than 24 hours by individuals other than parents or guardians, relatives by blood marriage, or adoption, and in a place other than the home of the person cared for. A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code. Places of worship during religious functions are not included. Adult care facility. A facility that provides accommodations for less than 24 hours for more than five unrelated adults and provides supervision and personal care services shall be classified as Group I-4. Exception: Where the occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from the staff the facility shall be classified as Group A-3. Child care facility. A facility that provides supervision and personal care on less than a 24-hour basis for more than five children 21/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-4. Exceptions: 1. A child day care facility which provides care for more than five but no more than 100 children 2-1/2 years or less of age, when the rooms where such children are cared for are located on the level of exit discharge and each of these child care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior, shall be classified as Group E. 2. Family child day care homes licensed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for the care of 12 or fewer children shall be classified as Group R-3. * * * [W] [B] Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or when not regulated by the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2 of the International Building Code. Residential occupancies shall include the following: R-1 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including: Boarding houses (transient) Hotels (transient) Motels (transient) R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including: Apartment houses Boarding houses (not transient)
Boarding homes licensed by the Department of Social and Health Services under Chapter 388-78A WAC
Dormitories Fraternities and sororities Hotels (nontransient) Monasteries Motels (nontransient)
Residential treatment facilities licensed by the Department of Health under Chapter 246-337 WAC
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer occupants are permitted to comply with the construction requirements for Group R-3.
R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as R-1, R-2
Foster Family Care Homes for six or fewer children including those of the resident family that are licensed by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services shall be permitted, as an accessory use to a dwelling.
Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling units
Adult care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours
Child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons.
Adult and child care facilities that are within a single-family home are permitted to comply with the Inter-national Residential Code
Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined in the International Building Code for Group R-3, except as otherwise provided for in that code, or shall comply with the International Residential Code. * * * Section 51. Section 202 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended by adopting thereto definitions of ADULT FAMILY HOME; CHILD DAY CARE; BERTH; BOATHOUSE; COVERED BOAT MOORAGE; DESIGNATED HOTWORK FACILITY; ELECTRICAL CODE; EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM; EXIT PLACARD; EXIT SIGN; FAMILY CHILD DAY CARE HOME; FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM; FIRE DISTRICT; FLOAT; GRAVITY-OPERATED DROP OUT VENTS; HIGH-RISE BUILDING; MARINA; MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITY; MOTOR VEHICLE; MOTOR VEHICLE, UNATTENDED; NIGHTCLUB; OIL-BURNING EQUIPMENT; PATIO FIREPLACE; PERSON; PF DEVICE; PIER; PORTABLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM; POWER TAP; SHIPYARD; SLIP; STANDBY POWER SYSTEM; SUBSTRUCTURE; SUPERSTRUCTURE; VAULT; VESSEL; WHARF or QUAY to read as follows: [W] ADULT FAMILY HOME means a dwelling in which a person or persons provide personal care, special care, room and board to more than one but not more than six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or person providing the services. * * * [W] CHILD DAY CARE, shall, for the purposes of these regulations, mean the care of children during any period of a 24-hour day. * * * BERTH. See Section 9402.1. * * * BOATHOUSE. See Section 9402.1. * * * COVERED BOAT MOORAGE. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1. * * * DESIGNATED HOT WORK FACILITY. See Section 4602.1. * * * [W] ELECTRICAL CODE is the National Fire Protection Association 70, National Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by this jurisdiction. [B] EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM. See Section 602.1. * * * [B] EXIT PLACARD. See Section 1002.1. * * * [B] EXIT SIGN. See Section 1002.1. * * * [W] FAMILY CHILD DAY CARE HOME is a child day care facility, licensed by the state, located in the dwelling of the person or persons under whose direct care and supervision the child is placed, for the care of twelve or fewer children, including children who reside at the home. * * * FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM. See Section 902.1. * * * [B] FIRE DISTRICT. See Section 2202.1. * * * FLOAT. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1. * * * GRAVITY-OPERATED DROP OUT VENTS. See Section 9402.1. * * * HIGH-RISE BUILDING. See Section 902.1. * * * MARINA. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1. * * * MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITY. See Section 9402.1. * * * MOTOR VEHICLE. See Section 2202.1. * * * MOTOR VEHICLE, UNATTENDED. See Section 2202.1. * * * [W] NIGHTCLUB. See Section 902.1. * * * OIL-BURNING EQUIPMENT. See Section 602.1. * * * PATIO FIREPLACE. See Section 302.1. PF DEVICE. See Section 2602.1. * * * PERSON. An individual, receiver, administrator, executor, assignee, trustee in bankruptcy, trust estate, firm, partnership, joint venture, club, company, joint stock company, business trust, municipal corporation, political subdivision of the State of Washington, corporation, limited liability company, association, society or any group of individuals acting as a unit, whether mutual, cooperative, fraternal, nonprofit or otherwise, and the United States or any instrumentality thereof. * * * PIER. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1. * * * [W] PORTABLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM. See 902.1. * * * POWER TAP. See Section 602.1. * * * SHIPYARD. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1. * * * SLIP. See Section 9402.1. * * * [B] STANDBY POWER SYSTEM. See Section 602.1. * * * SUBSTRUCTURE. See 4602.1. SUPERSTRUCTURE. See 4602.1. * * * VAULT. See Section 3402.1. VESSEL. See Sections 4602.1 and 9402.1 * * * WHARF or QUAY. See Section 9402.1 * * * Section 52. Subsection 302.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 302.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. BONFIRE. An outdoor fire utilized for ceremonial or recreationalpurposes and exceeding the size of a recreational fire. HI-BOY. A cart used to transport hot roofing materials on a roof. OPEN BURNING. The burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. Open burning does not include use of road flares, smudgepots and similar devices associated with safety or occupational uses typically considered open flames, bonfires or recreational fires or portable outdoor fireplaces. For the purpose of this definition, a chamber shall be regarded as enclosed when, during the time combustion occurs, only apertures, ducts, stacks, flues or chimneys necessary to provide combustion air and permit the escape of exhaust gas are open. PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACE. An outdoor, solid-fuel-burning fireplace that may be constructed of steel, concrete, clay or other noncombustible material. A portable outdoor fireplace may be open in design, or may be equipped with a small hearth opening and a short chimney or chimney opening in the top. * * * Section 53. Subsection 303.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 303.2 Location. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of any combustible material, combustible building surface or any building opening and within a controlled area identified by the use of traffic cones, barriers or other approved means. Asphalt (tar) kettles and pots shall not be utilized inside or on the roof of a building or structure. Roofing kettles and operating asphalt (tar) kettles shall not block means of egress, gates, roadways or entrances. Exception: When a practical difficulty is satisfactorily demonstrated tar kettles may be located on a roof. All roof top kettles shall require a temporary permit. Section 54. A new subsection 303.10 is adopted to read as follows: 303.10 LPG fuel containers. The maximum individual LPG container capacity and the aggregate quantity of LPG allowed to be used in conjunction with tar kettles shall be in accordance with Chapter 38. Section 55. Subsection 304.3.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 304.3.2 Capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet. Containers with a capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons) (0.15 m3) shall be provided with lids. Containers and lids shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or approved combustible materials. Exception: Waste accumulated for collection by the City's solid waste utility shall be stored in containers (to include recycling containers) specified in the City's solid waste collection contracts authorized by ordinance. Section 56. Subsection 306.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
306.1 Motion picture projection rooms. Electric arc, xenon or other light source projection equipment which develops hazardous gases, dust or radiation and the projection of ribbon-type cellulose nitrate film, regardless of the light source used in
projection, shall be operated within a motion picture projection room complying with Section 409 of the 306.1.1 Fire extinguishers. Two approved fire extinguishers with a minimum 10-B:C rating shall be installed and maintained ready for use in projection rooms. Section 57. Section 307 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 307 BONFIRES, OPEN BURNING, PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES AND RECREATIONAL FIRES
307.1 General. Open burning is prohibited in the City of Seattle. Bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be in accordance with Section 307.
307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled. 307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed. 307.3 Extinguishment authority. The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment by the permit holder, another person responsible or the fire department of open burning that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.
Exceptions:
1. Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
2. The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height.
307.4
307.5
307.6 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces may not be operated within 15 feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces may be used in accordance with manufacturer's directions at one-and two-family dwellings.
307.7 General burning prohibitions Trash, yard waste, rubbish and paper are prohibited as fuel for bonfires, recreational fires and fires in patio fireplaces. Smoke or odor emissions from bonfires, recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces
that make such fires hazardous are prohibited. The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of a bonfire, recreational fire or fire in a portable outdoor fireplace that creates or adds to a hazardous situation.
Point of Information
Hazards from bonfires, recreational fires, and fires in portable outdoor fireplaces may include but are not limited to smoke or odor emissions causing potential for false alarms, medical alarms, and hazards to health, and exposure to other structures
from fire.
When conducting a bonfire or a recreational fire or when using a patio fireplace, fire extinguishing equipment in accordance with SFC 307.8 shall be available for immediate use. For additional regulations and information pertaining to outdoor fires and
burning, see RCW 70.94. Go to www.pscleanair.org for information on how to register an air quality complaint with the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
307.8
Point of Information
See SFD Information Bulletin Recreational and Cooking Fire Regulations at www.seattle.gov/fire. For air quality and burn ban status information and regulations contact the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency as referenced in the above Point of
Iinformation. Section 58. Subsection 308.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 308.1 General. This section shall control open flames, fire and burning on all premises. Exception: Bonfires, recreational fires and use of patio fireplaces shall be in accordance with Section 307. Section 59. Subsection 308.3.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
308.3.1 Open-flame cooking devices.
Exceptions:
1. Oneand two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
308.3.1.1 Liquefied-petroleum-gas-fueled cooking devices. LP-gas burners having an LP-gas container with a water capacity greater than 2.5 pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity] shall not be located on combustible balconies or within 10
feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exception: Oneand two-family dwellings. Section 60. Subsection 308.3.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
308.3.5 Religious ceremonies. Nothing in this code prevents participants in religious ceremonies from carrying hand-held candles [Ref. RCW 19.27.031(3)]. It is the objective of the fire code to prevent the risk of injury arising from the use of
hand-held candles in places of public assembly by children aged 12 or under. A competent adult shall remain within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the child carrying a hand-held candle at all times, unless an alternative equivalent safety standard is approved.
Section 61. Subsection 308.3.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 308.3.7 Group A occupancies. Open-flame devices shall not be used in a Group A occupancy. Exceptions: 1. Open-flame devices are allowed to be used in the following situations, provided approved precautions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible material or injury to occupants: 1.1. Where necessary for ceremonial or religious purposes in accordance with Section 308.3.5. 1.2. On stages and platforms as a necessary part of a performance in accordance with Section 308.3.6. 1.3. Where candles on tables are securely supported on substantial noncombustible bases and the candle flames are protected. 2. Heat-producing equipment complying with Chapter 6 and the International Mechanical Code. 3. Gas lights are allowed to be used provided adequate precautions satisfactory to the fire code official are taken to prevent ignition of combustible materials.
4. Where approved under permit by the fire code official.
308.3.7.1 Permit required. A permit is required for open flame devices in a Group A occupancy.
310.3 "No Smoking" signs. The fire code official is authorized to order the posting of "No Smoking" signs in a conspicuous location in each structure or location in which smoking is prohibited. The content, lettering, size, color and location of required "No Smoking" signs shall be approved.
Point of Information
See Seattle Municipal Code 10.64 for requirements of posting "no smoking" signs in public places. Section 63. Subsection 311.1.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
311.1.1 Abandoned premises. Buildings, structures and premises Section 64. Subsection 311.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 311.3 Removal of combustibles. Persons owning, or in charge or control of, a vacant building or portion thereof, shall remove therefrom all accumulations of combustible materials, flammable or combustible waste or rubbish and shall securely lock or otherwise secure doors, windows and other openings to prevent entry by unauthorized persons. The premises shall be maintained clear of waste or hazardous materials.
Exception
Section 65. Subsection 311.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
311.5 Placards. If
311.5.1 Placard location. Placards shall be
311.5.2 Placard size and color. Placards may
311.5.3 Placard date. Placards may
311.5.4 Placard symbols. The design of the placards may 1. ? This symbol shall mean that the structure had normal structural conditions at the time of marking. 2. ? This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist and interior fire-fighting or rescue operations should be conducted with extreme caution. 3. ? This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist to a degree that consideration should be given to limit fire fighting to exterior operations only, with entry only occurring for known life hazards. 311.5.5 Informational use. The use of these symbols shall be informational only and shall not in any way limit the discretion of the on-scene incident commander. Section 66. Section 313 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 313 FUELED EQUIPMENT
313.1 General. Fueled equipment, including but not limited to equipment, shall not be stored, operated or repaired within a building. Exceptions:
1. Buildings or rooms constructed for such use in accordance with the
2. If a temporary permit for such use at exhibits, trade shows, or special events has been issued in accordance with section 105.6.13. 3. Storage of equipment utilized for maintenance purposes is allowed in approved locations when the aggregate fuel capacity of the stored equipment does not exceed 10 gallons (38 L) and the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
313.2 Fueled motor vehicles and watercraft. Fueled motor vehicles and watercraft, including but not limited to motorcycles, mopeds, and motor boats, shall not be stored, operated or repaired within a building.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings or rooms constructed for such use in accordance with the International Building Code.
2. When under a temporary permit for exhibits, trade shows, or special events in accordance with Section 105.6.13 .
313.4 Section 67. A new subsection 315.2.2.1 is adopted to read as follows:
315.2.2.1 Combustible storage under stairways. Combustible storage is prohibited under exit stairways.
Exception: Exit stairways that comply with Section 1009.5.3
315.2.5 Block pile storage arrangements. Storage shall be within 20 feet (6096 mm) of two aisles each at least 44 inches (13 411 mm) wide. No block pile shall exceed 40 feet by 40 feet (12 192 mm by 12 192 mm) unless approved by the firecode official. No dead-end aisle shall be longer than 10 times the width. All storage in unsprinklered areas shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) traveling by aisle of fire department exterior access openings. Storage shall not obstruct access to extinguishers, standpipe outlets, sprinkler control shut down and safety controls or fire department access openings (for high-piled storage, see Chapter 23). Section 69. New Sections 316 and 317 are adopted to read as follows: SECTION 316 FIXED GUIDEWAY TRANSIT AND PASSENGER RAIL SYSTEMS 316.1 Fixed guideway transit and passenger rail systems. Fixed guideway transit and passenger rail systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 130 as amended in this code. Point of Information See preface for information on NFPA amendments. SECTION 317 ROAD TUNNELS, BRIDGES AND OTHER LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAYS 317.1 Road tunnels, bridges and other limited access highways. Road tunnels, bridges, and other limited access highways shall be in accordance with NFPA 502 as amended in this code. Section 70. Subsection 401.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
401.3 401.3.1 Making false report. It shall be unlawful for a person to give, signal, or transmit a false alarm of a fire or other emergency. 401.3.2 Alarm activations. Upon activation of a fire or emergency alarm signal, employees or staff shall immediately notify the fire department. 401.3.3 Emergency evacuation drills. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the sounding of a fire or emergency alarm signal or the carrying out of an emergency evacuation drill in accordance with the provisions of Section 405. Section 71. A new subsection 401.6 is adopted to read as follows: 401.6 Evacuation required. In the event of activation of a fire or emergency alarm, occupants of the building or portion of the building in which the alarm is activated shall make a safe and orderly evacuation out of the building, or as provided in the building's fire safety and evacuation or high-rise emergency operations plan. Exceptions: 1.Where the occupant's physical or other disability makes the occupant unable to evacuate without assistance and no assistance is immediately available; or 2.Where the presence of smoke, fire, structural collapse or other hazard or obstruction in the occupant's means of egress makes evacuation unsafe. Section 72. Section 404 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 404
FIRE SAFETY AND EVACUATION PLANS AND HIGH-RISE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLANS
404.2 Where required.
1. Group A having an occupant load of 100 or more. 2. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. 3. Group E. 4. Group H. 5. Group I. 6. Group R-1. 7. Group R-2 college and university buildings.
8
9
10
11
12 404.2.1 Approval required. Where required by the fire code official, fire safety and evacuation plans must obtain the fire code official's approval of the plan.
Point of Information
See the Seattle Fire Department web page at www.seatle.gov/fire for guidelines and information regarding fire safety and evacuation plans. 404.3 Contents. Fire safety and evacuation plan contents shall be in accordance with Sections 404.3.1 and 404.3.2. 404.3.1 Fire safety and evacuation plans. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall include the following: 1. Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evacuation of the building is to be complete or, where approved, by selected floors or areas only.
2. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire or emergency.
3. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
4. Procedures for personnel carrying out duties in response to a fire emergency.
5. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emergency to the fire department.
6. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation is complete.
7. Floor plans indicating the following:
7.1 Occupancy assembly point.
7.2 Exits.
7.3 Primary and Secondary evacuation routes.
7.4 Accessible egress routes.
7.5 Areas of refuge.
7.6 Location of manual fire alarm boxes.
7.7 Location of portable fire extinguishers.
7.8 Location of occupant-use hose stations.
7.9 Location of fire alarm annunciators and controls
3. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation has been completed.
4. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for rescue or emergency medical aid.
5. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire or emergency.
6. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response organization.
7. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
8. A description of the emergency voice/alarm communication
1. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emergency.
2. The life safety strategy and procedures for notifying, relocating, or evacuating occupants.
3. Site plans indicating the following:
3.1. The occupancy assembly point.
3.2. The locations of fire hydrants.
3.3. The normal routes of fire department vehicle
access.
4. Floor plans identifying the locations of the following:
4.1. Exits.
4.2. Primary evacuation routes.
4.3. Secondary evacuation routes.
4.4. Accessible egress routes.
4.5. Areas of refuge.
4.6. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4.7. Portable fire extinguishers.
4.8. Occupant-use hose stations.
4.9. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.
5. A list of major fire hazards associated with the normal use and occupancy of the premises, including maintenance and housekeeping procedures.
6. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance of systems and equipment installed to prevent or control fires.
7. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance, housekeeping and controlling fuel hazard sources.
404.3.2 High-rise emergency operations plan required. A high-rise emergency operations plan approved by the fire code official is required for all high-rise buildings. The plan shall be prepared as specified in the Seattle Fire Department
High-rise Emergency Handbook and shall include the following sections:
Section 1. Responsibilities.
Section 2. Fire Reporting.
Section 3 Evacuation.
Section 4. Fire Control Procedures.
Section 5 Post-Fire Operations.
Section 6. Confidence Testing.
Section 7. High Value List.
Section 8. Shutoff Valve List.
Section 9. Floor Plans.
404.5 Availability. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be available in the work place for reference and review by employees, and copies shall be furnished to the fire code official for review upon request. High-rise emergency operation
plans shall be posted in the high-rise fire command center and one copy shall be furnished to the fire code official.
Section 73. Table 405.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS TABLE 405.2FIRE AND EVACUATION DRILLFREQUENCY AND PARTICIPATION GROUP OR FREQUENCY PARTICIPATION OCCUPANCY Group A Quarterly Employees Group Bc Annually Employees Group E Monthlya All occupants
Group I Quarterly on each shift Employees Group R-1 Quarterly on each shift Employees Group R-2d Four annually All occupants
High-rise buildings Annually a. The frequency shall be allowed to be modified in accordance with Section 408.3.2.
b.
occupants of apartment or residential condominium units, unless such occupant is also a member of the high-rise building staff. c. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. d. Applicable to Group R-2 college and university buildings in accordance with Section 408.3. Section 74. Subsection 405.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 75. Subsections 405.5, 405.6, 405.7,405.8 and 405.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code are amended as follows:
405.4 1. Identity of the person conducting the drill. 2. Date and time of the drill. 3. Notification method used. 4. Staff members on duty and participating. 5. Number of occupants evacuated. 6. Special conditions simulated. 7. Problems encountered.
8.
405.5
405.6
405.7
405.8 Section 76. Subsection 408.5.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
408.5.5 Resident participation. Emergency evacuation drills shall involve
them Section 77. Subsection 408.10.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
408.10.3 Resident training. Residents capable of assisting in their own evacuation shall be trained in the proper actions to take in the event of a fire. The training shall include actions to take if the primary escape route is blocked.
Section 78. Subsection 408.10.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
408.10.5 Resident participation. Emergency evacuation drills shall be in accordance with the building fire safety and evacuation plan and shall involve residents participating in the drill according to the emergency instructions applicable to
them.
Exception: Actual exiting from windows shall not be required. Opening the window and signaling for help shall be an acceptable alternative. Section 79. Subsection 501.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter and Appendix D as amended. Section 80. Section 502 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: * * * FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY. A limited issue key of special or controlled design to be carried by fire department officials in command which will open key boxes on specified properties.
Point of Information
The fire code official has approved the "Knox Box" as the access key box for use in the City of Seattle. Section 81. Subsection 503.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.7.
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), except for approved security gates inaccordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than
Exceptions:
1. Access roads serving not more than two Group R-3 or U occupancies shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 12 feet (3658 mm ).
2. Public streets shall be in accordance with Seattle Department of Transportation requirements. 503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require an increase in the minimum access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations. 503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities. (See Appendix D.)
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be Exception: Turnarounds in accordance with Appendix D. 503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus. (See Appendix D.) 503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and
maintained in accordance with
503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be in accordance with Appendix D. Section 82. Subsection 503.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road Section 83. Section 505 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 505 PREMISES IDENTIFICATION
505.1 Address numbers. New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These
numbers shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. 505.2 Street or road signs. Streets and roads shall be identified with approved signs. Temporary signs shall be installed at each street intersection when construction of new roadways allows passage by vehicles. Signs shall be of an approved size, weather resistant and be maintained until replaced by permanent signs.
Point of Information
Where marking is required, the signs shall be posted by the Seattle Department of Transportation for City streets and right-of-ways, and by the owners for private property. Section 84. Subsection 506.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official.
Point of Information
The fire code official has approved the "Knox Box" as the access key box for use in the City of Seattle.
With approval of the fire code official, the building owner may decline to install a key box with the understanding that forcible entry, if required, may result in damage to the building or premises. 506.1.1 Locks. An approved lock shall be installed on gates or similar barriers when required by the fire code official. Section 85. A new subsection 506.3 is adopted to read as follows: 506.3 Elevator key box. An elevator key box locked and keyed to the standard City elevator access key shall be provided. The elevator key box shall meet the following standards: 1. Dimensions 8 inches (203 mm) high, 6 inches (152 mm) wide and 1 inch (25 mm) deep. 2. Material 16 gauge steel welded. 3. Color red (unless located in the main lobby above the call button, six feet nominal above the floor). 4. Labeling "FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT USE." 5. Lock Ace 1-inch (25 mm) cylinder cam lock key #39504. The elevator key box is to be installed at the designated recall floor above the Phase I recall switch or in the main lobby above the hall call button when no recall feature exists. The elevator key box is to be mounted 6 feet (1829 mm) nominal above the floor. Other locations may be approved by the building official upon request, with notification to the fire code official. 506.3.1 Elevator Keys. Keys for access to and for the operation of elevator equipment shall be tagged, labeled, and retained in the key box. The elevator key box shall contain fire emergency service keys (Phase I and II, one key for each switch). The elevator key box may in addition contain keys for any or all of the following: 1. Machine room door; 2. Secondary level door; 3. Pit door; 4. Roof door; 5. Independent, hospital emergency and/or attendant operation; 6. Hoistway access; 7. Mechanical hoist access devices (broken arm, lunar, etc.); 8. Miscellaneous switch keys; 9. Fire alarm panel room; 10. Sprinkler valve control room. Point of Information Due to security consideration, elevator key boxes should not contain master keys to tenant spaces. Keys in elevator key boxes should be limited to those for access of the building systems and equipment listed in Section 506.3.1. Section 86. Subsection 508.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
508.3 Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method and shall be in accordance with Appendix B as amended.
Unless otherwise approved by the fire code official, only those hydrants that meet all of the following conditions may be used to meet the fire flow requirements:
1. Provide a minimum of 1,000 gpm (63 L/s) at 20 psi (138 kPa) flowing independently,
2. Provide a minimum of 500 gpm (34 L/s) at 20 psi (138kPa) flowing simultaneously,
3. Are located within 500 feet (152 400 mm) of the building as measured by an approved route.
Point of Information
Specific fire flow requirements are set forth for shipyards, designated marine hot work facilities, new and existing covered marinas and vessel refueling facilities in accordance with Administrative Rules adopted by the fire code official, Chapter 46
and Chapter 94. Section 87. Subsection 508.5.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
508.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than Exceptions: 1. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, the distance requirement shall be 600 feet (183 m). 2. The fire code official is authorized to increase the 600 feet (183 m) for Group R-3 and Group U occupancies where the building is equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
Section 88. Subsection 508.5.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 508.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other approved means shall comply with Section 312. Any horizontal, lateral or diagonal elements that are a part of the protection for hydrants shall not interfere with the ability to freely access and safely operate the hydrant. Section 89. A new subsection 508.5.7 is adopted to read as follows: 508.5.7 Hydrant marking. Hydrants shall be marked in a manner approved by Seattle Public Utilities. Section 90. Subsection 509.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 509.1 Features. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the International Building Code, a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided. The location and accessibility of the fire command center shall be approved by the fire department. The fire command center shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building Code or horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code, or both. The room shall be a minimum of 96 square feet (9 m2) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438 mm). A layout of the fire command center and all features required by this section to be contained therein shall be submitted for approval prior to installation. The fire command center shall comply with NFPA72 and shall contain the following features: 1. The emergency voice/alarm communication system unit. 2. The fire department communications system. 3. Fire-detection and alarm system annunciator system. 4. Annunciator visually indicating the location of the elevators and whether they are operational. 5. Status indicators and controls for air-handling systems. 6. The fire-fighter's control panel required by Section 909.16 for smoke control systems installed in the building. 7. Controls for unlocking stairway doors simultaneously. 8. Sprinkler valve and water-flow detector display panels. 9. Emergency and standby power status indicators. 10. A telephone for fire department use with controlled access to the public telephone system. 11. Fire pump status indicators. 12. Schematic building plans indicating the typical floor plan and detailing the building core, means of egress, fire protection systems, fire-fighting equipment and fire department access. 13. Work table.
14. Generator supervision devices, manual start and load transfer capabilities and procedures 15. Public address system, where specifically required by other sections of this code. 16. On site water tank fill valve control switch. Section 91. Subsection 601.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
601.2 Permits. Permits shall be obtained for refrigeration systems, Section 92. Subsection 602.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. * * * [B] EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM means electrical systems that comply with the Seattle Electrical Code Article 700. * * * OIL-BURNING EQUIPMENT. A stationary oil burner of any type together with its tank, piping, wiring, controls and related devices. Oil-burning equipment includes oil burners, boilers, furnaces, oil-fired units and heating and cooking appliances but does not include internal combustion engines, oil lamps and portable devices such as blow torches, melting pots and weed burners. POWER TAP is a device for indoor use consisting of an attachment plug on one end of a flexible cord and two or more receptacles on the opposite end, and has overcurrent protection. * * * REFRIGERATION SYSTEM. A combination of interconnected refrigerant-containing parts constituting one closed refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant is circulated for the purpose of extracting heat and in which a compressor is used for compressing the refrigerant vapor. [B] STANDBY POWER SYSTEM means an electrical power system that complies with Seattle Electrical Code Article 701 Legally Required Standby Systems. Section 93. Subsection 603.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 603.1 Installation. The installation of nonportable fuel gas appliances and systems shall comply with the International Fuel Gas Code. The installation of all other fuel-fired appliances, other than internal combustion engines, oil lamps and portable devices such as blow torches, melting pots and weed burners, shall comply with this section and the International Mechanical Code. 603.1.1 Manufacturer's instructions. The installation shall be made in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable federal, state, and local rules and regulations. Where it becomes necessary to change, modify, or alter a manufacturer's instructions in any way, written approval shall first be obtained from the manufacturer. 603.1.2 Approval. The design, construction and installation of fuel-fired appliances shall be in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical Code.
603.1.3 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equipment used in connection with 603.1.4 Fuel oil. The grade of fuel oil used in a burner shall be that for which the burner is approved and as stipulated by the burner manufacturer. Oil containing gasoline shall not be used. Waste crankcase oil shall be an acceptable fuel in Group F, M and S occupancies, when utilized in equipment listed for use with waste oil and when such equipment is installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the terms of its listing. 603.1.5 Access. The installation shall be readily accessible for cleaning hot surfaces; removing burners; replacing motors, controls, air filters, chimney connectors, draft regulators, and other working parts; and for adjusting, cleaning and lubricating parts.
603.1.6 Testing, diagrams and instructions. After installation of the fuel-fired appliance
performance tests shall be conducted to determine that the
603.1.6.1 Diagrams. Contractors installing industrial fuel-fired appliances 603.1.6.2 Instructions. After completing the installation, the installer shall instruct the owner or operator in the proper operation of the equipment. The installer shall also furnish the owner or operator with the name and telephone number of persons to contact for technical information or assistance and routine or emergency services.
603.1.7 Clearances. Working clearances between oil-fired appliances and electrical panel boards and equipment shall be in accordance with the Section 94. Subsection 603.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
603.3 Fuel oil storage systems. Fuel oil storage systems shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 34 of this code. Fuel oil piping systems shall be installed in accordance with the
Where connected to a fuel-oil piping system, the maximum amount of fuel oil storage allowed outside above ground without additional protection shall be 660 gallons (2498 L). The storage of fuel oil above ground in quantities exceeding 660 gallons (2498
L) shall comply with NFPA 31.
603.3.2 Maximum inside fuel oil storage. Where connected to a fuel-oil piping system, the maximum amount of fuel oil storage allowed inside any building shall be 660 gallons (2498 L). Where the amount of fuel oil stored inside a building exceeds 660
gallons (2498 L), the storage area shall be in compliance with the International Building Code.
603.3.3 Underground storage of fuel oil. The storage of fuel oil in underground storage tanks shall comply with NFPA 31. Section 95. Subsection 603.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
603.4 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupancies in Groups A, E, I, R-1, R-2, and R-3 . Exceptions: 1. Listed and approved unvented fuel-fired heaters in oneand two-family dwellings. 2. Gas-fired heating appliances located outdoors at permanent Group A drinking and dining establishments frequented by the public shall be in accordance with this section. 603.4.1 Prohibited locations. Unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall not be located in, or obtain combustion air from, any of the following rooms or spaces: sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms or storage closets.
603.4.2 Portable gas-fired heating appliances at permanent drinking and dining establishments. Portable gas-fired heating appliances located outdoors at permanent drinking and dining establishments shall be in accordance with this section.
603.4.2.1 Location.
603.4.2.1.1 Prohibited locations. The storage or use of portable gas-fired heating appliances are prohibited:
1. Inside the Group A occupancy structure when connected to the fuel gas container,
2. On tabletops, and
3. Inside tents, canopies and membrane structures.
603.4.2.1.2 Buildings. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall be located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from buildings.
603.4.2.1.3 Near combustible materials. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located beneath combustible overhangs, awnings, sunshades or similar combustible decorations.
603.4.2.1.4 Near exits. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of exits or exit discharges.
603.4.2.2 Portable gas-fired heating appliance.
603.4.2.2.1 Listing and approval. Only listed and approved portable gas-fired heating appliances utilizing a gas container that is integral to the appliance shall be used.
603.4.2.2.2 Installation and maintenance. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
603.4.2.2.3 Automatic shutoff device. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall be equipped with an automatic device that will shut off the flow of gas to the main burner and, if applicable, the pilot in the event the flame is extinguished.
603.4.2.2.4 Tip-over switch. Portable gas-fired heating appliances shall be equipped with a tilt or tip-over switch that automatically shuts off the flow of gas if the appliance is tilted more than 15 degrees from vertical.
603.4.2.2.5 Guard against contact. The heating element or combustion chamber shall be permanently guarded so as to prevent accidental contact by persons or material.
603.4.2.3 Gas containers.
603.4.2.3.1 Approved containers. Only approved U.S. DOT or ASME gas containers shall be used.
603.4.2.3.2 Refilling containers. Gas containers shall not be refilled onsite.
603.4.2.3.3 Container replacement. Replacement of gas containers in a portable gas-fired heating appliance shall not be conducted while the public is present.
603.4.2.3.4 Gas container storage.
603.4.2.3.4.1 Container capacity. The maximum individual capacity of gas containers used in connection with portable gas-fired heating appliances shall not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
603.4.2.3.4.2 Maximum storage quantity. The maximum aggregate quantity of gas containers on site awaiting use shall not exceed 100 pounds (45 kg) [5 x 20pound (2.3 x 9 kg) containers] and shall be stored outside in accordance with Section
603.4.2.3.4.
603.4.2.3.4.3 Indoor storage prohibited. Gas containers shall not be stored inside.
603.4.2.3.4.4 Storage locker. Gas containers shall be located outside within lockable, ventilated metal storage lockers or racks to prevent unauthorized access.
603.4.2.3.4.5 Storage locker location. Ventilated metal storage lockers or racks shall be located at least 20 feet (6096 mm) from exits, building openings, public ways and designated smoking areas.
Exception: When the storage locker is located remote to the Group A Occupancy, it shall be located in accordance with Table 3809.12.
603.4.2.3.4.6 Security of storage locker. Ventilated metal storage lockers or racks shall be secured against unauthorized entry.
603.4.2.3.4.7 Vehicle protection. Ventilated metal storage lockers for gas containers shall be protected from vehicular impact in accordance with Section 312 if subject to possible vehicle impact.
603.4.2.3.4.8 Container position. Gas containers shall be stored in an upright position such that the pressure relief valve is in direct contact with the vapor phase of the container.
603.4.2.4 Ignition sources. Smoking and open-flame devices (e.g. candles, flaming food or beverage preparation) shall be prohibited within 5 feet (1524 mm) of any gas-fired heating appliance. "No Smoking" signs shall be posted at affected areas.
603.4.2.5 Fire extinguishers. At least one portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 2A:40BC shall be provided and mounted with the top located no higher than 5 feet (1524mm) above grade. Travel distance to the extinguisher shall not exceed
50 feet (15 240 mm).
603.4.2.6 Leaking gas. In the event of a gas leak or suspected leak, the container shall be immediately removed from the premises. Periodic leak tests (with the use of soapy water) shall be conducted by trained personnel to ensure the container and
fittings are tight.
603.4.2.7 Means of egress. Drinking and dining areas where portable gas-fired heating appliances are used shall be provided with at least two means of egress. Section 96. Subsection 604.2.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.2.2 Smoke control systems.
Exception: Standby power is acceptable for shaft pressurization systems in
low-rise buildings in accordance with Section 909.22. Section 97. Subsection 604.2.14 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.2.14 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m2) shall be provided with Section 98. Subsection 604.2.15 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.2.15 High-rise buildings.
604.2.15.1 Exception: A generator set with a fuel tank system not exceeding 660 gallons (2498.3 L) is not required to be located in a rated room when installed in a sprinklered parking garage of type I or II construction, unless a 1-hour separation is required to separate control areas in accordance with Table 2703.1.1(1). 604.2.15.1.1 Fuel supply. An on-premises fuel supply, sufficient for not less than 2-hour full-demand operation of the system, shall be provided.
604.2.15.1.2 Capacity. The emergency
604.2.15.1.3 Emergency power loads. The following are classified as emergency power loads:
1. Exit signs and means of egress illumination required by Chapter 10.
2. Elevator car lighting.
3. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems.
4. Automatic fire detection systems.
5. Fire alarm systems.
6. Power and lighting for the fire command center.
7. Lighting for mechanical rooms.
8. Electrically powered fire pumps.
9. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equipment for smoke proof enclosures.
10. Smoke control systems.
11. A selected elevator in each bank in accordance with Seattle Building Code Section 3016.7. A bank of elevators is a group of elevators or a single elevator controlled by a common operating system-all elevators that respond to a single call button
constitute a bank of elevators. All elevators shall be transferable to emergency power. 604.2.15.2 Separate circuits and luminaires. Separate lighting circuits and luminaires shall be required to provide sufficient light with an intensity of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) measured at floor level in all means of egress corridors, stairways, smokeproof enclosures, elevator cars and lobbies, and other areas that are clearly a part of the escape route.
center and mechanical equipment rooms shall be transferable to the standby source.
604.2.15.3 Emergency systems. Exit signs, exit illumination as required by Chapter 10, and elevator car lighting are classified as emergency systems and shall operate within 10 seconds of failure of the normal power supply and shall be capable of being
transferred to the standby source.
Exception: Exit sign, exit and means of egress illumination are permitted to be powered by a standby source in buildings of Group F and S occupancies. Section 99. Subsection 604.2.16 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.2.16 Underground buildings. Emergency and standby power systems in underground buildings covered in Chapter 4 of the International Building Code shall comply with Section
604.2.16.1
[B] 604.2.16.1.1 1. Smoke control system. 2. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equipment for smoke-proof enclosures. 3. Fire pumps.
4.
5. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems.
6. Fire alarm systems.
7. Automatic fire detection systems.
8. Elevator car lighting.
9. Means of egress lighting and exit sign illumination as required by Chapter 10.
604.2.16.2 Emergency power. An emergency power system complying with the ICC Electrical Code shall be provided for emergency power loads as specified in Section 604.2.15.2.1.
604.2.16.2.1 Emergency power loads. The following loads are classified as emergency power loads:
1. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems.
2. Fire alarm systems.
3. Automatic fire detection systems.
4. Elevator car lighting.
5. Means of egress lighting and exit sign illumination as required by Chapter 10. Section 100. Subsection 604.2.19 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.2.19 Elevators. In buildings and structures where
604.2.19.1 Manual transfer.
604.2.19.2 One elevator. Where only one elevator is installed, the elevator shall automatically transfer to
604.2.19.3 Two or more elevators. Where two or more elevators are controlled by a common operating system, all elevators shall automatically transfer to
604.2.19.4 Venting. Where Section 101. A new subsection 604.2.20 is adopted to read as follows: 604.2.20 Refrigeration systems. When treatment, detection or continuous ventilation systems are required for refrigeration systems, such systems shall be connected to a secondary source of power to automatically supply electrical power in the event of loss from the primary source. Section 102. Subsection 604.3.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
604.3.2 Written record. Written records of the inspection, testing and maintenance of emergency and standby power systems shall include the date of service, name of the servicing technician, a summary of conditions noted and a detailed description of
any conditions requiring correction and what corrective action was taken. Such records shall be kept on the premises served by the emergency or standby power system and shall be submitted to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety Systems. Section 103. Subsection 605.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
605.1 Abatement of electrical hazards. Identified electrical hazards shall be abated. Identified hazardous electrical conditions in permanent wiring shall be brought to the attention of the code official responsible for enforcement of the
Section 104. Subsection 605.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 605.3 Working space and clearance. A working space of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in width, 36 inches (914 mm) in depth and 78 inches (1981 mm) in height shall be provided in front of electrical service equipment. Where the electrical service equipment is wider than 30 inches (762 mm), the working space shall not be less than the width of the equipment. No storage of any materials shall be located within the designated working space. Exceptions:
1. Where other dimensions are required or allowed by the 2. Access openings into attics or under-floor areas which provide a minimum clear opening of 22 inches (559 mm) by 30 inches (762 mm). Section 105. Subsection 606.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 606.8 Refrigerant detectors.
606.8.1 Within machinery rooms. Machinery rooms shall contain a refrigerant detector connected to an alarm system utilizing listed and approved fire alarm signaling devices capable of generating a sound level, distinctive from
other alarm signals, of at least 15dB above the operating ambient sound pressure level of the space in which they are installed and initiating an approved distinctive visual alarm Where continuous mechanical ventilation is provided, failure of the ventilation system shall activate an audible and visual alarm.
The detector, or a sampling tube that draws air to the detector, shall be located in an area where refrigerant from a leak will concentrate. The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greater than the corresponding TLV-TWA values shown in the
Exception: Machinery room vapor detectors for ammonia systems shall actuate an alarm at a detection level not to exceed 1,000 ppm and shall automatically exhaust air from the machinery room in accordance with Seattle Mechanical Code Section 1105.6.4 for emergency conditions. Detectors and alarms shall be placed in approved locations.
606.8.2 Outside of machinery rooms. Where evaporators and piping containing refrigerants in excess of the quantities in International Mechanical Code Table 1103.1 are located within rooms or spaces used exclusively for processing or storage of
materials under refrigerated conditions, the refrigerated room or space shall be equipped with a refrigerant-vapor detector and alarm system complying with Section 606.8.1.
Activation of the refrigerant detector shall also automatically stop the flow of refrigerant to evaporators within the space and stop the flow of refrigerant in all supply lines leaving a machinery room whenever the refrigerant vapor concentration is
detected at or above 50 percent of the IDLH or 25 percent of the LFL, whichever is lower. Section 106. A new subsection 606.17 is adopted to read as follows: 606.17 Secondary power source. When treatment, detection, continuous ventilation or alarm systems are required, such systems shall be connected to a secondary source of power to automatically supply electrical power in the event of loss of power from the primary source. See Section 604.2 and the Seattle Electrical Code. Section 107. Subsection 607.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 607.1 Required. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor or other level of a building and intended to serve the needs of emergency personnel for fire-fighting or rescue purposes shall be provided with emergency operation in accordance with ASME A17.3. New elevators shall be provided with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation in accordance with ASME A17.1. Phase I recall shall be initiated on any activation of the building's fire alarm system. Section 108. Subsection 608.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 608.4 Room design and construction. Enclosure of stationary battery systems
shall comply with the * * * Section 109. A new subsection 608.6.3 is adopted to read as follows: 608.6.3 Supervision. Ventilation systems required by Section 608.6.1 and 608.6.2 shall be supervised by an approved central proprietary or remote station service or shall initiate an audible and visual signal at a constantly attended on-site location. Section 110. Subsection 609.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: [M] 609.2 Where required. A Type I hood shall be installed at or above all commercial cooking appliances and domestic cooking appliances used for commercial purposes that produce grease vapors, when required by the Seattle Mechanical Code. Section 111. Table 704.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: TABLE 704.1VERTICAL OPENING PROTECTION REQUIRED OCCUPANCY CONDITIONS PROTECTION REQUIRED CLASSIFICATION Group I Vertical openings connecting two or more 1-hour protection stories All, other than Vertical openings connecting two stories No protection Group I requireda,b All, other than Vertical openings connecting three to five 1-hour protection or Group I stories automatic sprinklers throughouta,b All, other than Vertical openings connecting more than five 1-hour protectiona,b Group I stories All Mezzanines open to the floor below No protection requireda,b All, other than Atriums and covered mall buildings 1-hour protection or Group I automatic sprinklers throughout All, other than Escalator openings connecting four or less No protection Groups B and M stories in a sprinklered building or required stairs that are not a portion of the means of egress constructed in accordance with Seattle Building Code 707.2. Openings must be protected by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13 Group B and M Escalator openings in a sprinklered building No protection protected by a draft curtain and closely required spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13. Stairs that are not a portion of the means of egress constructed in accordance with Seattle Building Code 707.2. No protection required a. Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies. b. Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages and ramps. Section 112. Subsection 801.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W]801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern interior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Sections 803 through 809 of this
code shall be applicable to existing buildings. Section 803 of the International Building Code and Sections 804 through 809 Section 113. Subsection 806.1.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W]806.1.1 Restricted occupancies. Natural cut trees shall be prohibited in Group
1. Trees located in areas protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall not be prohibited in Groups A, E, M, R-1 and R-2.
2. Trees shall be allowed within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. Section 114. Subsection 806.1.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: [W]806.1.2 Support devices. The support device that holds the tree in an upright position shall be of a type that is stable and that meets all of the following criteria: 1. The device shall hold the tree securely and be of adequate size to avoid tipping over of the tree.
2. The device shall be capable of containing a minimum 3. The water level, when full, shall cover the tree stem at least 2 inches (51 mm). The water level shall be maintained above the fresh cut and checked at least once daily. TABLE 806.1.2-SUPPORT STAND WATER CAPACITY
TABLE 806.1.2-SUPPORT STAND WATER CAPACITY
TREE STEM MINIMUM SUPPORT {TYPICAL DAILY WATER DIAMETER (inches) STAND WATER EVAPORATION CAPACITY AMOUNT (gallons) (gallons)
Up to 4 1 1/4 to 1
4 to 6 1-1/2 1-1/4 to 1-1/2
7 to 8 2 1-3/4 to 2
9 to 12 3 2-1/4 to 3
13 and over 4 Over 3 Section 115. Subsection 806.1.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 806.1.3 Dryness. The tree shall be removed from the building whenever the tree needles or leaves fall off readily when a tree branch is shaken or if the needles are brittle and break when bent between the thumb and index finger or whenever determined necessary by the fire code official. The tree shall be checked daily for dryness. Section 116. A new section 809 is adopted to read as follows: SECTION 809 DECORATIVE MATERIALS USED IN TEMPORARY ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES 809.1 General. Combustible decorative materials used in temporary assembly occupancies shall be flame resistant as determined by the fire code official. Exceptions: 1. The display of salable goods. 2. Educational materials and product brochures that are stored, distributed and maintained in an approved manner. 3. Live vegetation of an approved type. Section 117. Subsection 901.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 901.4 Installation. Individuals who install, inspect, test or maintain life safety systems and equipment shall obtain the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. Fire protection systems shall be maintained in accordance with the original installation standards for that system. Required systems shall be extended, altered, or augmented as necessary to maintain and continue protection whenever the building is altered, remodeled or added to. Alterations to fire protection systems shall be done in accordance with applicable standards. * * * Section 118. Subsection 901.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 901.5 Installation acceptance testing. Fire detection and alarm systems, fireextinguishing systems, fire hydrant systems, fire standpipe systems, fire pump systems, private fire service mains and all other fire protection systems and appurtenances thereto shall be subject to acceptance tests as contained in the installation standards and as approved by the fire code official. The fire code official shall be notified before any required acceptance testing .Individuals who perform acceptance tests on fire and life safety systems shall obtain the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. * * * Section 119. Subsection 901.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Fire and life safety systems, other than NFPA 13D sprinkler systems, shall be confidence tested in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety Systems. Non-required fire protection systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed when approved by the code official. * * * Section 120. Subsection 901.6.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 901.6.2 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the referenced standards shall be maintained on the premises for a minimum of three years and shall be copied to the fire code official upon request. In addition, confidence test documentation shall be submitted to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety Systems. * * * Section 121. Subsection 901.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires. * * * Section 122. Subsection 902.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 902.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker, light, or text display that provides audible, tactile, or visible outputs, or any combination thereof. * * * FIRE DETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. A device designed to detect the presence of a fire signature and to initiate action. FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM: A system of smoke or heat detectors monitored at an approved central station, with no requirement for notification appliances in the building. FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. Approved devices, equipment and systems or combinations of systems used to detect a fire, activate an alarm, extinguish or control a fire, control or manage smoke and products of a fire or any combination thereof. * * * HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A fire-extinguishing system using one or more atoms of an element from the halogen chemical series: fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. Buildings having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
IMPAIRMENT COORDINATOR. The person responsible for the maintenance of a particular fire protection system. * * * MULTIPLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. Two or more single-station alarm devices that are capable of interconnection such that actuation of one causes all integral or separate audible alarms to operate. [W] NIGHTCLUB. An A-2 occupancy use under the 2006 Seattle Building Code in which the aggregate area of concentrated use of unfixed chairs and standing space that is specifically designated and primarily used for dancing or viewing performers exceeds three hundred fifty square feet, excluding adjacent lobby areas. "Nightclub" does not include theaters with fixed seating, banquet halls, or lodge halls. NUISANCE ALARM. An alarm caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation, or lack of proper maintenance, or an alarm activated by a cause that cannot be determined. [W] PORTABLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which requires a chassis to be transported, and is designed to be used as an educational space with or without a permanent foundation. The structure shall be trailerable and capable of being demounted and relocated to other locations as needs arise. RECORD DRAWINGS. Drawings ("as builts") that document the location of all devices, appliances, wiring, sequences, wiring methods, and connections of the components of a fire alarm system as installed. * * * Section 123. Subsection 903.2.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section. For Group A-1, A-2, A-3, and A-4 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the floor area where the Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancy is located, and in all floors between the Group A occupancy and the level of exit discharge, including the level of exit discharge. For Group A-5 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in the spaces indicated in Section 903.2.1.5. 903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists: 1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2); 2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more; 3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge; or 4. The fire area contains a multitheater complex. 903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists: 1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2); 2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or 3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge. Exception: Item 3 does not apply to fire areas that include space located one floor above the level of exit discharge where the occupant load of the upper floor is less than 50. * * * Section 124. A new subsection 903.2.1.6 is adopted to read as follows: 903.2.1.6 Nightclub. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with 903.3.1.1 throughout an occupancy with a nightclub. Existing nightclubs shall be provided with automatic sprinklers not later than December1, 2009. Section 125. Subsection 903.2.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W] 903.2.2 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies.
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 square feet (1858 m2) in area.
2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the level of exit discharge.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any fire area or area below the level of exit discharge where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level.
Exceptions:
1. Portable school classrooms, provided the aggregate area of any cluster of portable school classrooms does not exceed 5,000 square feet (1465 m2); and clusters of portable school classrooms shall be separated as required in Chapter 5 of the Seattle
Building Code.
2. Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less. Section 126. Subsection 903.2.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 903.2.7 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exception:
Buildings complying with the Seattle Residential Code and Chapter 5 of this code are not required to be sprinklered. Section 127. A new subsection 903.2.8.3 is adopted to read as follows: 903.2.8.3 Liquor Warehouses An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in liquor warehouses. Point of Information Stockrooms of retail liquor sales outlets are not liquor warehouses. Section 128. A new subsection 903.2.10.4 is adopted to read as follows: 903.2.10.4 Basement storage and sale of combustible materials. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout basements that are not stories above grade plane that are used for storage or sale of combustible materials. Exceptions: 1. Sprinklers are not required in portions of the basement not containing combustible materials and protected by a fire barrier with at least a one-hour fire-resistance rating. 2. Sprinklers are not required in storage rooms meeting all of the following criteria: 2.1. The area of the room does not exceed 500 square feet; 2.2. The room is protected by a fire barrier with at least a one-hour fireresistance rating; 2.3. The room contains no material classified as a flammable liquid, hazardous material or highly combustible material; 2.4. The room is served by exterior fire access or interior access by a onehour fire-resistance rated corridor. 2.5 No more than three such rooms are permitted in any one basement. Section 129. Subsection 903.3.1.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.03.07, Automatic Sprinklers and Standpipes, except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1. 903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance rated construction or contains electrical equipment. 1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard, when approved by the fire code official. 2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents, when approved by the fire code official. 3. Generator and transformer rooms separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. 4. In rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly noncombustible contents.
903.3.1.1.2 High-rise building sprinkler system design. In high-rise buildings combination standpipe/sprinkler risers using 6 in. pipe minimum, shall be used with the sprinkler system connected between standpipe risers. Shut-off
valves, water-flow devices, and check valves (or pressure reducing valves) shall be provided on each floor at the sprinkler system connection to each standpipe. Two four-way fire department connections serving the combination
system shall be provided on separate streets well separated from each other. At least one of the fire department connections shall be connected to the riser above a riser isolation valve.
When a mid-level fire pump is required by NFPA 14 two pumps with the same rating shall be installed.
Dry pipe sprinkler systems serving parking garages may use one separate two-way fire department connection. The dry pipe sprinkler system shall be supplied by the on-site water tank. Section 130. Subsection 903.3.1.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems installed in one and two-family dwellings shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D. A NFPA 13D sprinkler system may be installed in townhouses when approved by the fire code official if each unit has its own water service, each unit exits to a public way, no unit is located over another unit or common space, and each unit and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from other units by at least a 1-hour fire partition. Section 131. Subsection 903.3.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
903.3.3 Obstructed locations. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13 obstruction criteria and the listing requirements of the sprinkler head. Exceptions: 1. Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods protected with a fireextinguishing system in accordance with Section 904. 2. Temporary single-level covered booths, kiosks, or concession stands less than 300 sq. ft. (28 m2) in area that are in spaces operating under a temporary place of assembly permit. Section 132. Subsection 903.3.5.1.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
903.3.5.1.2 Section 133. Subsection 903.3.5.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
903.3.5.2 Secondary water supply. A secondary on-site water supply providing a minimum net volume of 33,000 (124 918 L) gallons shall be provided for highrise buildings. A lesser amount equal to the hydraulically calculated sprinkler
demand, including the hose stream requirement Exception: Existing buildings including those undergoing substantial renovation. Section 134. Subsection 903.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 903.4 Sprinkler system monitoring and alarms. All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures, and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised. Exceptions: 1. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting oneand two-family dwellings, and townhouses. 2. Limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers. 3. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided. 4. Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position. 5. Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position. 6. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position. 7. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
903.4.1 Signals. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to a central station service that is listed in the current edition of the Underwriter's Laboratories
FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT DIRECTORY under the category Central Station (UUFX) as a Full Service Company or as a Monitoring Company.
Fire alarm systems in high-rise buildings and Group I and Group A occupancies (other than A-5) shall be monitored by a central station service that is listed in the current edition of the Underwriter's Laboratories FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT DIRECTORY
under the category Central Station (UUFX) as a Full Service Company or as a Fire Alarm Service Local Company that subcontracts the monitoring, retransmission, and associated record keeping and reporting to a listed Full Service Company or Monitoring
Company. The listing shall indicate that the Full Service Company or Fire Alarm Service Local Company provides service to the Seattle area. Exceptions: 1. Underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes or underground vaultsprovided by the municipality or public utility are not required to be monitored. 2. Backflow prevention device test valves located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall be locked in the open position. In occupancies required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated. * * * Section 135. A new subsection 903.6.2 is adopted to read as follows: [W] 903.6.2 Nightclub. All nightclubs shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire extinguishing system in accordance with 903.3.1.1 throughout the occupancy by December 1, 2009. Section 136. Subsection 904.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. * * * Section 137. Subsection 904.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.5 Wet-chemical systems. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 17A and their listing by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. 904.5.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 6-month intervals by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. Tests shall include a check of the detection system, alarms and releasing devices, including manual stations and other associated equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pressure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure. The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 138. Subsection 904.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.6 Dry-chemical systems. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment in accordance with NFPA 17 and their listing. 904.6.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 6-month intervals. Tests shall include a check of the detection system, alarms and releasing devices, including manual stations and other associated equipment. Extinguishing system units shall be weighed, and the required amount of agent verified. Stored pressure-type units shall be checked for the required pressure. The cartridge of cartridge-operated units shall be weighed and replaced at intervals indicated by the manufacturer. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 139. Subsection 904.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
904.7 Foam systems. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and testedby individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07
Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety
Systems and Equipment 904.7.1 System test. Foam-extinguishing systems shall be inspected and tested at intervals in accordance with NFPA 25. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. Section 140. Subsection 904.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.8 Carbon dioxide systems. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment in accordance with NFPA 12 and their listing. 904.8.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 141. Subsection 904.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.9 Halon systems. Halogenated extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment in accordance with NFPA 12A and their listing. 904.9.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 142. Subsection 904.10 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.10 Clean-agent systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment in accordance with NFPA 2001 and their listing. 904.10.1 System test. Systems shall be inspected and tested for proper operation at 12-month intervals Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 143. Subsection 904.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 904.11 Commercial cooking systems. The automatic fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust systems of the type and arrangement protected. Pre-engineered automatic dryand wet-chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in accordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled for the intended application. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment in accordance with this code, its listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the referenced standard indicated, as follows: 1. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12. 2. Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13. 3. Foam-water sprinkler system or foam-water spray systems, NFPA 16. 4. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17. 5. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17A. Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested in accordance with UL 710B and listed, labeled and installed in accordance with Section 304.1 of the International Mechanical Code. * * * 904.11.6.4 Extinguishing system service. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be serviced by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment at least every 6 months and after activation of the system. Inspection shall be by qualified individuals, and a certificate of inspection shall be forwarded to the fire code official upon completion in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety System. * * * Section 144. Subsection 905.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 905.2 Installation standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14, and Administrative Rule 9.03.07, Automatic Sprinklers and Standpipes. Section 145. Subsection 905.3.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 905.3.1 Building height. Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of the fire department vehicle access, or where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire department vehicle access. Exceptions: 1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 2. Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking garages where the highest floor is located not more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. 3. Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open parking garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose connections are located as required for Class II standpipes in accordance with Section 905.5. 4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. 5. In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider: 5.1. Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less, and 5.2. Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible. 6. Standpipe systems are not required in townhouses. Section 146. Subsection 905.3.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 905.3.2 Group A. Class I automatic or manual wet standpipes shall be provided in nonsprinklered Group A buildings having an occupant load exceeding 1,000 persons. Exceptions: 1. Open-air-seating spaces without enclosed spaces. 2. Class I automatic dry and semiautomatic dry standpipes or manual wet standpipes are allowed in buildings where the highest floor surface used for human occupancy is 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Section 147. Subsection 905.3.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
905.3.3 Covered mall buildings. A covered mall building shall be equipped throughout with a Class I automatic or manual standpipe system with 1. Within the mall at the entrance to each exit passageway or corridor. 2. At each floor-level landing within enclosed stairways opening directly on the mall. 3. At exterior public entrances to the mall. Section 148. Subsection 905.3.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
905.3.7 Marinas and boatyards. New marinas and boatyards shall be equipped throughout with standpipe systems in accordance with Section 149. A new subsection 905.3.8 is adopted to read as follows: 905.3.8 High-rise building standpipes. Standpipe risers in high-rise buildings shall be combination standpipe/sprinkler risers using a minimum pipe size of 6 inches (152 mm). Two 21/2 -inch (64 mm) hose connections shall be provided on every floor level landing in every required stairway. Where pressure reduction valves (prv) are required, each hose connection shall be provided with its own prv. The system shall be designed to provide a minimum flow of 300 gpm (19 L/s) at a minimum pressure of 150 psi (1034 kPa) [maximum 205 psi (1379 kPa)] at each standpipe connection, in addition to the flow and pressure requirements contained in NFPA 14. Section 150. Subsection 905.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 905.4 Location of Class I standpipe hose connections. Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
1. In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate floor level landing between floors 2. On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a horizontal exit. Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal exit are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit. 3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
4. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior public entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall and at each floor level landing within enclosed stairways opening
directly onto the mall
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope),
The roof hose connections shall be arranged to be operable without entering the building.
Roof connections in high-rise buildings are allowed to be located
6. Where the most remote portion of a nonsprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) of hose travel distance from a hose connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered floor or story is more than 200 feet (60
960 mm) of hose travel distance from a hose connection, additional hose connections shall be provided in protected locations that are accessed through protected enclosures. The protected enclosure shall be a corridor
constructed as a smoke barrier from the exit enclosure to the standpipe connection. Additional hose connections in parking garages are not required to be accessed through or located in protected enclosures. Section 151. Subsection 905.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 905.9 Valve supervision. Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal at the supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the control unit. Exceptions:
1. Valves 2. Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, nor provided with monitoring by a central station service. Section 152. Subsection 906.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in the following locations.
1. In new and existing Group A, B, E, F, H, I , M, R-1, R-2,
2. Within 30 feet (9144 mm) of commercial cooking equipment. 3. In areas where flammable or combustible liquids are stored, used or dispensed. 4. On each floor of structures under construction, except Group R-3 occupancies, in accordance with Section 1415.1. 5. Where required by the sections indicated in Table 906.1. 6. Special-hazard areas, including but not limited to laboratories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where required by the fire code official. Section 153. Subsection 906.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 906.2 General requirements. Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected, installed and maintained in accordance with this section and NFPA 10. Exceptions: 1. The travel distance to reach an extinguisher shall not apply to the spectator seating portions of Group A-5 occupancies.
2. Thirty-day inspections shall not be required and maintenance shall be allowed to be once every 2.1. Electronic monitoring shall confirm that extinguishers are properly positioned, properly charged and unobstructed. 2.2. Loss of power or circuit continuity to the electronic monitoring device shall initiate a trouble signal. 2.3. The extinguishers shall be installed inside of a building or cabinet in a non-corrosive environment.
2.4. Electronic monitoring devices and supervisory circuits shall be tested every 2.5. A written log of required hydrostatic test dates for extinguishers shall be maintained by the owner to ensure that hydrostatic tests are conducted at the frequency required by NFPA10. Section 154. Subsection 907.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and
structures and new fire alarm systems being installed in existing structures. The requirements of Section 907.3 are applicable to existing buildings and structures. All fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be designed,
installed and maintained in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72, except for the locations of initiating devices, which shall comply with Section 907 of the Seattle Fire Code.
For the purposes of this section, fire walls not located on a property line shall not constitute a separate building.
Buildings required by this section to be provided with a fire alarm system shall be provided with a single fire alarm system.
Exception: A single system is not required in existing buildings that are being increased in size and the existing fire alarm system is unable to expand into the new space. In those cases multiple systems shall be arranged as described below for
non-required fire alarm systems.
Buildings not required by this section to be provided with a fire alarm system may be provided with multiple partial fire alarm systems provided:
1) The systems are connected so that all systems simultaneously activate alarm notification appliances upon a signal from any of the fire alarm systems in the building.
2) The location of each system's annunciator panel (or main panel) is also provided with annunciator panels with reset capability for every other system in the building. * * * Section 155. Subsection 907.2.7.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 156. Subsections 907.2.8. of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.2.8.1 Manual and automatic fire alarm system. A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies. Exceptions: 1. A manual and automatic fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow; and
2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
907.2.8.2 Automatic detection
Exception: * * * Section 157. Subsection 907.2.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
907.2.9 Group R-2. Except in townhouses meeting the requirements of Section 907.2.9.2 1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge; 2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit; or 3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units. Exceptions: 1. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2; and
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler flow.
3
907.2.9.1 Automatic detection. Automatic heat detectors shall be provided in any unsprinklered interior areas outside dwelling units other than attics and crawl spaces.
907.2.9.2 Townhouses. Where a fire alarm system is required in accordance with Section 907.2.9, a fire alarm system is not required for townhouse structures meeting all of the following criteria:
1. Each unit has its own exit to a public way.
2. No unit is located above any other unit or common space.
3. Each unit and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from other units by at least a one-hour fire partition.
4. Each unit is provided with an interconnected smoke alarm system that includes heat detectors in the garage.
5. The sprinkler waterflow switch activates the interconnected smoke alarm and heat detection system within the affected unit. Section 158. Subsection 907.2.12 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with a floor used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2. Exceptions: 1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Section 907.2.22 and Section 412 of the International Building Code. 2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3 of the International Building Code. 3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the International Building Code. 4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1 of the International Building Code.
907.2.12.1 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section other than duct smoke detectors shall operate the emergency voice/alarm communication system. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
1. In each 2. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94 m3/s). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet. 3. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each returnair riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air-inlet openings. 4. Within 5 feet (1524 mm) of doors exiting into stairways that are smokeproof enclosures, or that are pressurized stairways.
907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler water-flow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information
and directions for a general or staged evacuation on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above, and 1. Elevator groups.
2. Each exit stairway 3. Each floor. 4. Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1. Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page. 907.2.12.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones. 907.2.12.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall also have the capability to broadcast live voice messages through paging zones on a selective and all-call basis. 907.2.12.2.3 Standard. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.2.12.3 Fire department communication system. An approved two-way, fire department communication system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be provided for fire department use. It shall operate between a fire command center
complying with Section 509 and elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the
enclosed exit stairway. Eight
portable handsets for the communication system shall be provided in the fire command center. Exception: Fire department radio systems where approved by the fire department. Section 159. Subsection 907.2.18.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in the following areas:
1. 2. Elevator lobbies. 3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet. 4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return-air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings. 5. Within 5 feet (1524 mm) of doors exiting into stairways that are smokeproof enclosures, or that are pressurized stairways. Section 160. Subsection 907.4.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.4.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit at every floor level. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm). Section 161. Subsection 907.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.7 Activation. Where an alarm notification system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1. 2. Sprinkler water-flow devices. 3. Manual fire alarm boxes. 4. Any other fire suppression system installed within the building. Section 162. Subsection 907.9.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
907.9.1 Alarm panels and annunciators shall not be installed where they would obstruct exiting. The required exit width plus 12 inches shall be provided when the panel is located in a means of egress. Alarm panels shall not be installed in an exit enclosure providing the sole exit from any space. Section 163. Subsection 907.10.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.10.1 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.10.1.1 through 907.10.1.4. Exceptions:
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.09.07 Visible
Alarm Notification Devices 2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Section 1002.1. * * * Section 164. Subsection 907.10.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.10.2 Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and sound a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm. The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupied space within the building, or in the case of non-required partial fire alarm systems, throughout the space that is being provided with the fire alarm system. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 70 dBA in occupancies in Groups R and I-1; 90 dBA in mechanical equipment rooms; and 60 dBA in other occupancies. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 120 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 105 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required. In assembly facilities with high sound levels such as nightclubs and bars an interface shall be provided between the fire alarm system and noise source to eliminate the noise source. Exceptions:
1.Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in critical care areas of Group I-2 occupancies. Private mode signaling in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be allowed in
areas of Group I-2 occupancies where patients are not expected to self-evacuate.
2. Audibility is not required for fire detection systems monitored by an approved central station in buildings in which a fire alarm is not required by this section.
907.10.2.1 Audible alarms in existing buildings. Required fire alarms systems in existing residential buildings shall provide a sound level of 60 dBa minimum or 15 dBa above ambient noise levels in sleeping rooms Section 165. Subsection 907.12 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.12 Duct smoke detectors. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control panel as a supervisory signalwhen a fire alarm system is provided. Duct smoke detectors shall not activate a fire alarm signal. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exception
Section 166. Subsection 907.15 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.15 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the International Building Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA72. Exception: Supervisory service is not required for: 1. Singleand multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.10. 2. Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies. 3. Automatic sprinkler systems in oneand two-family dwellingsand townhouses. Section 167. Subsection 907.17 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 907.17 Acceptance tests. Upon completion of the installation of the fire alarm system, and after the electrical inspector has signed off on the installation, alarm notification appliances and circuits, alarm-initiating devices and circuits, supervisory-signal initiating devices and circuits, signaling line circuits, and primary and secondary power supplies shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72 in the presence of the fire code official, by individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. Section 168. Subsection 907.20 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
907.20 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with this section and Chapter 10 of NFPA 72. The systems shall be worked on only by
individuals who possess the proper certificate from the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for
Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. Documentation of testing shall be forwarded to the fire code official in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety
Systems. Section 169. A new subsection 907.21 is adopted to read as follows: 907.21 Fire Alarm Equipment. Alarm-initiating devices, alarm-signaling devices, and annunciators shall not be concealed, obstructed, deactivated, or impaired. Exception: When authorized by the fire code official. Fire alarm equipment shall not be reset upon activation unless authorized by the fire code official. Section 170. Subsection 909.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
909.11 Power systems. The smoke control system shall be supplied with two sources of power. Primary power shall be from the normal building power system. Secondary power shall be from an approved 909.11.1 Power sources and power surges. Elements of the smoke management system relying on volatile memories or the like shall be supplied with uninterruptable power sources of sufficient duration to span a 15-minute primary power interruption. Elements of the smoke management system susceptible to power surges shall be suitably protected by conditioners, suppressors or other approved means.
909.11.2 Wiring. In addition to meeting requirements of the Seattle Electrical Code, all wiring regardless of voltage, shall have fire-resistancerated protection of at least two hours or as required in rules promulgated by the building
official.
Exception: Subject to the approval of the building official, fireresistance-rating is not required for wiring located in a parking garage. Section 171. Subsection 909.12.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
909.12.1 Wiring. Section 172 . Subsection 909.12.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
909.12.3 Automatic control. Where completely automatic control is required or used, the automatic-control sequences shall be initiated from an appropriately zoned automatic sprinkler system complying with Section 903.3.1.1, manual controls that are
readily accessible to the fire department and any smoke detectors Section 173. Subsection 909.16 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 909.16 Fire-fighter's smoke control panel. A fire-fighter's smoke control panel for fire department emergency response purposes only shall be provided and shall include manual control or override of automatic control for mechanical smoke control systems. The panel shall be located in a fire command center complying with Section 911 in high-rise buildings or buildings with smoke-protected assembly seating. In all other buildings, the fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall be installed in an approved location adjacent to the fire alarm control panel. The fire-fighter's smoke control panel shall comply with Sections 909.16.1 through 909.16.3.
909.16.1 Smoke control systems. Fans within the building shall be shown on the fire-fighter's control panel. A clear indication of the direction of airflow and the relationship of components shall be displayed. Status indicators shall be provided for
all smoke control fans
1. Fans
2. Fans
3. Fans
4. Fans 909.16.2 Smoke control panel. The fire-fighter's control panel shall provide control capability over the complete smoke-control system equipment within the building as follows:
1. ON-AUTO-OFF control over each shaft pressurization fan.
2.
3.
Exception
2. Complex systems, where approved, where the control is accomplished by computer interface using approved, plain English commands. 909.16.3 Control action and priorities. The fire-fighter's control panel actions shall be as follows: 1. ON-OFF and OPEN-CLOSE control actions shall have the highest priority of any control point within the building. Once issued from the fire-fighter's control panel, no automatic or manual control from any other control point within the building shall contradict the control action. Where automatic means are provided to interrupt normal, nonemergency equipment operation or produce a specific result to safeguard the building or equipment (i.e., duct freezestats, duct smoke detectors, high-temperature cutouts, temperature-actuated linkage and similar devices), such means shall be capable of being overridden by the firefighter's control panel. The last control action as indicated by each firefighter's control panel switch position shall prevail. In no case shall control actions require the smoke control system to assume more than one configuration at any one time.
Exception: Power disconnects required by the * * * Section 174. Subsection 909.18.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 909.18.8 Special inspections for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector for compliance with the approved plans. 909.18.8.1 Scope of testing. Special inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the following:
2. * * * Section 175. Subsection 909.20.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
909.20.4 909.20.4.1 Dedicated smoke control systems. Dedicated smoke control systems shall be operated for each control sequence semi-annually. The system shall also be tested under standby power conditions. 909.20.4.2 Nondedicated smoke control systems. Nondedicated smoke control systems shall be operated for each control sequence annually. The system shall also be tested under standby power conditions. Section 176. Subsection 909.20.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is repealed, and a new subsection 909.20.5 is adopted to read as follows: 909.20.5 Stair pressurization Exit stairways shall be pressurized to a minimum of 0.15 inch of water (37 Pa) and a maximum of 0.35 inch of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all stairway doors closed under maximum anticipated stack pressures. The pressure differential shall be measured between the smokeproof enclosure and the adjacent area. In residential buildings, the pressure differential is permitted to be measured between the smokeproof enclosure and the dwelling units. Exception: The pressure differential is permitted to be measured relative to outdoor atmosphere on floors other than the following: 1. the fire floor, 2. the two floors immediately below the fire floor, and 3. the floor immediately above the fire floor. 909.20.5.1 Supply Air. Air for stairway pressurization shall be supplied at intervals sufficient to maintain the required pressure throughout the shaft. Note: The performance goal for Section 909.20.5.1 is compliance with minimum and maximum pressures at all levels of the shaft, and to ensure upward flow of air and smoke. 909.20.5.2 Air intake. Supply air shall be taken directly from an outside, uncontaminated source at least 20 feet (6096 mm) from any air exhaust system or outlet. Air intakes shall be located at the exterior of the building. The intake shall be continuous to the exterior of the building. Two smoke detectors shall be located in the duct in accordance with NFPA 72 arranged to automatically shut down the fan system only when both smoke detectors activate. The detectors shall be located upstream of the fan and shall be connected to the fire alarm as a supervisory signal. 909.20.5.3 Dampered relief opening. The exit enclosure shall be equipped with a barometric dampered relief opening at the top, and a motorized damper as required by the Washington State Energy Code with Seattle Amendments. The motorized damper shall be of the normally open type (open with the power off). Activation of the damper shall be initiated by the building fire alarm system and by actuation of the automatic sprinkler system. The pressurization system shall be capable of maintaining the pressure required by Section 909.20.5 while 2,500 cubic feet per minute of air is being discharged through the relief opening. Supply ducts between the exterior of the building and the exit enclosure shall be enclosed in construction at least equivalent to that of the exit enclosure. Section 177. A new subsection 909.20.6 is adopted to read as follows: 909.20.6 Pressurization equipment. The pressurization equipment required by Section 909.20.5 shall be activated by a fire alarm signal originating anywhere in the building. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.10. 909.20.6.1 Pressurization systems. Smokeproof enclosure pressurization systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. Exception: Ventilation systems other than smokeproof enclosure supply air systems are permitted to be used to exhaust air from adjacent space when necessary to maintain pressure relationships. Ventilation systems used to achieve smokeproof enclosure pressurization are not required to comply with Section 909. The equipment and ductwork shall comply with any one of the following: 1. Equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and directly connected to the smokeproof enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by 2-hour fire barriers. 2. Equipment and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by 2-hour fire barriers. 3. Equipment and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by 2-hour fire barriers. Interpretation I909.20: Dampers other than motorized dampers required by the Washington State Energy Code with Seattle Amendments are not permitted in smokeproof enclosure system air supply unless approved by the building official. 909.20.6.2 Emergency power. Mechanical stair shaft pressurization systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be powered by an approved emergency power system conforming to Section 403.11 and Chapter 27 of the Seattle Building Code. 909.20.6.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements. Mechanical stair shaft pressurization systems shall comply with Sections 909.18 through 909.19. Section 178. Section 1002 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1002.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. * * * EXIT PASSAGEWAY. An exit component that is separated from all other interior spaces of a building or structure by fire-resistance-rated construction and opening protectives, and provides for a protected path of egress travel in a horizontal direction to the exit discharge or the public way.
EXIT PLACARD. A non-illuminated sign or a sign painted on a wall indicating the direction of egress.
EXIT SIGN. An internally-illuminated sign indicating the direction of egress. * * * Section 179. Subsection 1003.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1003.2 Ceiling height. The means of egress shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm). Exceptions:
1.
2. 3. Allowable projections in accordance with Section 1003.3. 4. Stair headroom in accordance with Section 1009.2. 5. Door height in accordance with Section 1008.1.1. Section 180. Table 1004.1.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: TABLE 1004.1.1 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT FUNCTION OF SPACE FLOOR AREA IN SQ. FT. PER OCCUPANT Accessory storage areas, mechanical 300 gross equipment room1 Agricultural building 300 gross Aircraft hangars 500 gross Airport terminal 20 gross Baggage claim 300 gross Baggage handling 100 gross Concourse 15 gross Waiting areas Assembly 11 gross Gaming floors (keno, slots, etc.) Assembly with fixed seats See Section 1004.7 Assembly without fixed seats 7 net Concentrated (chairs only-not fixed) 5 net Standing space 15 net Unconcentrated (tables and chairs) Bowling centers, allow 5 persons for each 7 net lane including 15 feet of runway, and for additional areas Business areas without sprinkler protection 100 gross with sprinkler protection 130 gross Commercial laboratories 100 gross Courtrooms-other than fixed seating areas 40 net Day care 35 net Dormitories 50 gross Educational 20 net Classroom area 50 net Shops, laboratories and other vocational room areas Exercise rooms 50 gross H-5 Fabrication and manufacturing areas 200 gross Industrial areas 100 gross Institutional areas 240 gross Inpatient treatment areas 100 gross Outpatient areas 120 gross Sleeping areas Kitchens, commercial 200 gross Library 50 net Reading rooms 100 gross Stack area Locker rooms 50 gross Mercantile 60 gross Areas on other floors 30 gross Basement and grade floor areas 300 gross Storage, stock, shipping areas Parking garages 200 gross Residential 200 gross Skating rinks, swimming pools 50 gross Rink and pool 15 gross Decks Stages and platforms 15 net Warehouses 500 gross For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. 1. For electrical equipment areas, see also Sections 110.26, 110.32 and 11033 of the Seattle Electrical Code. Section 181. Subsection 1006.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1006.2 Illumination level. Illumination shall be provided at every point in Exception: For auditoriums, theaters, concert or opera halls and similar assembly occupancies, the illumination at the walking surface level is permitted to be reduced during performances to not less than 0.2 foot-candle (2.15 lux), provided that the required illumination is automatically restored upon activation of a premises' fire alarm system where such system is provided.
Code Alternate CA1006.2: Compliance with the following paragraphs will be deemed to satisfy the requirement for means of egress illumination at every point in the means of egress. Means of egress illumination systems that comply with this Code
Alternate shall also comply with Section 1006.3.
1. Location and Fixture Placement. Means of egress illumination shall belocated in stairways, corridors, halls, passenger elevator cars, lobbies, rooms with an occupant load of 100 or more, and other areas required to provide safe egress from the
premises and immediately outside of the building exit when required by the building official. Fixtures shall be installed to not less than the following schedule:
1. In warehouses, the allowable minimum illumination is permitted to be 0.1 watt per square foot (0.03 watts for fluorescent) provided fixtures are placed either: 1.1 Where means of egress pathways are not designated, fixtures shall be placed to cover an area not larger than 1,600 square feet, or 1.2 Where means of egress pathways are designated, fixtures shall be placed at least one for every 40 lineal feet. 2. In theaters, auditoriums or other places of assembly where motion pictures or other projections are made by means of directed light, the minimum allowable illumination is permitted to be reduced to 0.05 watts per square foot of floor area (0.02 watts for fluorescent). The higher level of required illumination shall be automatically restored upon activation of a premises fire alarm system where such system is provided. 3. In Groups B, F-1, M and S-1 occupancies, when approved by the building official, the minimum allowable illumination is permitted to be reduced to 0.05 watts per square foot (0.02 watts for fluorescent) of floor area. 4. In Group B occupancies and open parking garages, when approved by the building official, the illumination is permitted to be eliminated when within 50 feet of a window wall or open side and where light is not totally obscured. Means of egress illumination fixtures shall be spaced and designed to give adequate distribution of light for safe egress and so that the failure of any individual lighting element, such as the burning out of a light bulb, will not leave any space in total darkness. Illumination from battery operated fixtures shall provide the same level of illumination required for hard-wired fixtures. Section 182. Subsection 1006.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1006.3 Illumination In the event of power supply failure, an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate the following areas: 1. Aisles and unenclosed egress stairways in rooms and spaces that require two or more means of egress. 2. Corridors, exit enclosures and exit passageways in buildings required to have two or more exits. 3. Exterior egress components at other than the level of exit discharge until exit discharge is accomplished for buildings required to have two or more exits. 4. Interior exit discharge elements, as permitted in Section 1024.1, in buildings required to have two or more exits. 5. Exterior landings, as required by Section 1008.1.5, for exit discharge doorways in buildings required to have two or more exits. The emergency power system shall provide power for a duration of not less than 90 minutes and shall consist of storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Section 2702 of the International Building Code. : Section 183. Subsection 1007.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1007.2 Continuity and components. Each required accessible means of egress shall be continuous to a public way and shall consist of one or more of the following components: 1. Accessible routes complying with Section 1104 of the International Building Code. 2. Stairways within vertical exit enclosures complying with Sections 1007.3 and 1020. 3. Exterior exit stairways complying with Sections 1007.3 and 1023. 4. Elevators complying with Section 1007.4. Interpretation I1007.2a: An exit passageway is not required on the level of exit discharge to connect the elevator with the exterior exit door. 5. Platform lifts complying with Section 1007.5. 6. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1022. 7. Ramps complying with Section 1010. 8. Areas of refuge complying with Section 1007.6. Exceptions: 1. Where the exit discharge is not accessible, an exterior area for assisted rescue must be provided in accordance with Section 1007.8. 2. Where the exit stairway is open to the exterior, the accessible means of egress shall include either an area of refuge in accordance with Section 1007.6 or an exterior area for assisted rescue in accordance with Section 1007.8. 1007.2.1 Elevators required. In buildings where a required accessible floor is four or more stories above or below a level of exit discharge, at least one required accessible means of egress shall be an elevator complying with Section 1007.4. Interpretation I1007.2b: The level of exit discharge is counted when determining whether an accessible floor is four stories above or below a level of exit discharge. Exceptions: 1. In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator shall not be required on floors provided with a horizontal exit and located at or above the level of exit discharge. 2. In buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the elevator shall not be required on floors provided with a ramp conforming to the provisions of Section 1010. Interpretation I1007.2c: In exception 2, the ramp shall be part of an accessible means of egress. Section 184. Subsection 1007.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1007.4 Elevators. In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an elevator shall comply with the emergency operation and signaling device requirements of Section 2.27 of ASME A17.1. Exception: Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit in open parking garages. Section 185. Subsection 1008.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1008.1 Doors. Means of egress doors shall meet the requirements of this section. Doors serving a means of egress system shall meet the requirements of this section and Section 1018.2. Doors provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall meet the requirements of this section. See Section 3201 of the International Building Code for doors swinging over public property. Means of egress doors shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials. 1008.1.1 Size of doors. The minimum width of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm). Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The maximum width of a swinging door leaf shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of egress doors in a Group I-2 occupancy used for the movement of beds shall provide a clear width not less than 41.5 inches (1054 mm). The height of doors shall not be less than 80 inches (2032 mm). Exceptions: 1. The minimum and maximum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egress in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies. 2. Door openings to resident sleeping units in Group I-3 occupancies shall have a clear width of not less than 28 inches (711 mm). 3. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in area shall not be limited by the minimum width. 4. Width of door leafs in revolving doors that comply with Section 1008.1.3.1 shall not be limited. 5. Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall not be less than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height. 6. Exterior door openings in dwelling units and sleeping units, other than the required exit door, shall not be less than 76 inches (1930 mm) in height. 7. In other than Group R-1 occupancies, the minimum widths shall not apply to interior egress doors within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit that is not required to be an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit. 8. Door openings required to be accessible within Type B units shall have a minimum clear width of 31.75 inches (806 mm). 1008.1.1.1 Projections into clear width. There shall not be projections into the required clear width lower than 34 inches (864 mm) above the floor or ground. Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) above the floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm). 1008.1.2 Door swing. Egress doors shall be side-hinged or pivoted swinging. Exceptions: 1. Private garages, office areas, factory and storage areas with an occupant load of 10 or less. 2. Group I-3 occupancies used as a place of detention. 3. Critical or intensive care patient rooms within suites of health care facilities. 4. Doors within or serving a single dwelling unit in Groups R-2 and R-3. 5. In other than Group H occupancies, revolving doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.1. 6. In other than Group H occupancies, horizontal sliding doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.3 are permitted in a means of egress. 7. Power-operated doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.3.2. 8. Doors serving a bathroom within an individual sleeping unit in Group R-1. [W] 9. In other than Group H occupancies, manually-operated horizontal sliding doors are permitted in a means of egress from occupied spaces with an occupant load of 10 or less. Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel where serving an occupant load of 50 or more persons or a Group H occupancy. The opening force for interior side-swinging doors without closers shall not exceed a 5-pound (22 N) force. For other side-swinging, sliding and folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. The door shall be set in motion when subjected to a 30-pound (133 N) force. The door shall swing to a full-open position when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. Forces shall be applied to the latch side. 1008.1.3 Special doors. Special doors and security grilles shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1008.1.3.1 through 1008.1.3.5. 1008.1.3.1 Revolving doors. Revolving doors shall comply with the following: 1. Each revolving door shall be capable of collapsing into a bookfold position with parallel egress paths providing an aggregate width of 36 inches (914 mm). 2. A revolving door shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the foot of or top of stairs or escalators. A dispersal area shall be provided between the stairs or escalators and the revolving doors. 3. The revolutions per minute (rpm) for a revolving door shall not exceed those shown in Table 1008.1.3.1. 4. Each revolving door shall have a side-hinged swinging door which complies with Section 1008.1 in the same wall and within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the revolving door. TABLE 1008.1.3.1 REVOLVING DOOR SPEEDS TABLE 1008.1.3.1REVOLVING DOOR SPEEDS INSIDE DIAMETER POWER-DRIVEN-TYPE MANUAL-TYPE (feet-inches) SPEED CONTROL SPEED CONTROL (rpm) (rpm) 6-6 11 12 7-0 10 11 7-6 9 11 8-0 9 10 8-6 8 9 9-0 8 9 9-6 7 8 10-0 7 8 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. 1008.1.3.1.1 Egress component. A revolving door used as a component of a means of egress shall comply with Section 1008.1.3.1 and the following three conditions: 1. Revolving doors shall not be given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity. 2. Each revolving door shall be credited with no more than a 50-person capacity. 3. Each revolving door shall be capable of being collapsed when a force of not more than 130 pounds (572) is applied within 3 inches (76 mm) of the outer edge of a wing. 1008.1.3.1.2 Other than egress component. A revolving door used as other than a component of a means of egress shall comply with Section 1008.1.3.1. The collapsing force of a revolving door not used as a component of a means of egress shall not be more than 180 pounds (801 N). Exception: A collapsing force in excess of 180 pounds (801 N) is permitted if the collapsing force is reduced to not more than 130 pounds (572) when at least one of the following conditions is satisfied: 1. There is a power failure or power is removed to the device holding the door wings in position. 2. There is an actuation of the automatic sprinkler system where such system is provided. 3. There is an actuation of a smoke detection system which is installed in accordance with Section 907 to provide coverage in areas within the building which are within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of the revolving doors. 4. There is an actuation of a manual control switch, in an approved location and clearly defined, which reduces the holding force to below the 130-pound (572) force level. 1008.1.3.2 Power-operated doors. Where means of egress doors are operated by power, such as doors with a photoelectric-actuated mechanism to open the door upon the approach of a person, or doors with power-assisted manual operation, the design shall be such that in the event of power failure, the door is capable of being opened manually to permit means of egress travel or closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not exceed those specified in Section 1008.1.2, except that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50 pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of swinging from any position to the full width of the opening in which such door is installed when a force is applied to the door on the side from which egress is made. Full-power-operated doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted and low-energy doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19. Exceptions: 1. Occupancies in Group I-3. 2. Horizontal sliding doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.3. 3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1008.1.1, provided a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out. 1008.1.3.3 Horizontal sliding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, horizontal sliding doors permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1008.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria: 1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure. 2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method from both sides without special knowledge or effort. 3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width. 4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device. 5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 715.4.7.3, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 715. 6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply. 7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised. 8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device. 1008.1.3.4 Access-controlled egress doors. The entrance doors in a means of egress in buildings with an occupancy in Group A, B, E, M, R-1 or R-2 and entrance doors to tenant spaces in occupancies in Groups A, B, E, M, R-1 and R-2 are permitted to be equipped with an approved entrance and egress access control system which shall be installed in accordance with all of the following criteria: 1. A sensor shall be provided on the egress side arranged to detect an occupant approaching the doors. The doors shall be arranged to unlock by a signal from or loss of power to the sensor. 2. Loss of power to that part of the access control system which locks the doors shall automatically unlock the doors. 3. The doors shall be arranged to unlock from a manual unlocking device located 40 inches to 48 inches (1016 mm to 1219 mm) vertically above the floor and within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the secured doors. Ready access shall be provided to the manual unlocking device and the device shall be clearly identified by a sign that reads "PUSH TO EXIT." When operated, the manual unlocking device shall result in direct interruption of power to the lock-independent of the access control system electronics-and the doors shall remain unlocked for a minimum of 30 seconds. 4. Activation of the building fire alarm system, if provided, shall automatically unlock the doors, and the doors shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm system has been reset. 5. Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire detection system, if provided, shall automatically unlock the doors. The doors shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm system has been reset. 6. Entrance doors in buildings with an occupancy in Group A, B, E or M shall not be secured from the egress side during periods that the building is open to the general public.
7. The access control system shall be listed or shall be comprised of approved components.
Note: To be approved, components must bear a "recognized component" mark from an approved agency. 1008.1.3.5 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more means of egress are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles. 1008.1.4 Floor elevation. There shall be a floor or landing on each side of a door. Such floor or landing shall be at the same elevation on each side of the door. Landings shall be level except for exterior landings, which are permitted to have a slope not to exceed 0.25 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2percent slope). Exceptions: 1. Doors serving individual dwelling units in Groups R-2 and R-3 where the following apply:
1.1. A door is permitted to open at the top step of a 1.2. Screen doors and storm doors are permitted to swing over stairs or landings. 2. Exterior doors as provided for in Section 1003.5, Exception 1, and Section 1018.2, which are not on an accessible route. 3. In Group R-3 occupancies not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units, the landing at an exterior doorway shall not be more than 7.75 inches (197 mm) below the top of the threshold, provided the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door, does not swing over the landing. 4. Variations in elevation due to differences in finish materials, but not more than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). 5. Exterior decks, patios or balconies that are part of Type B dwelling units, have impervious surfaces and that are not more than 4 inches (102 mm) below the finished floor level of the adjacent interior space of the dwelling unit. 1008.1.5 Landings at doors. Landings shall have a width not less than the width of the stairway or the door, whichever is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a required dimension by more than 7 inches (178 mm). When a landing serves an occupant load of 50 or more, doors in any position shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half its required width. When doors open over landings, doors in any position shall not reduce the landing length to less than 12 inches (305 mm). Landings shall have a length measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). Exception: Landing length in the direction of travel in Groups R-3 and U and within individual units of Group R-2 need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm). Interpretation I1008.1.5: Landing length, width and slope shall be measured as specified in Section 1009.4 and 1009.5.1. See Figures 1008.1.5(1), 1008.1.5(2) and 1008.1.5(3) for illustrations of the requirements of this section. 1008.1.6 Thresholds. Thresholds at doorways shall not exceed 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) in height for sliding doors serving dwelling units or 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) for other doors. Raised thresholds and floor level changes greater than 0.25 inch (6.4 mm) at doorways shall be beveled with a slope not greater than one unit vertical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope). Exception: The threshold height shall be limited to 7.75 inches (197 mm) where the occupancy is Group R-2 or R-3; the door is an exterior door that is not a component of the required means of egress; the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door does not swing over the landing or step; and the doorway is not on an accessible route as required by Chapter 11 of the International Building Code and is not part of an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit. 1008.1.7 Door arrangement. Space between two doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum plus the width of a door swinging into the space. Doors in a series shall swing either in the same direction or away from the space between the doors. Exceptions: 1. The minimum distance between horizontal sliding power-operated doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm). 2. Storm and screen doors serving individual dwelling units in Groups R-2 and R-3 need not be spaced 48 inches (1219 mm) from the other door. 3. Doors within individual dwelling units in Groups R-2 and R-3 other than within Type A dwelling units. 1008.1.8 Door operations. Except as specifically permitted by this section egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. 1008.1.8.1 Hardware. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices on doors required to be accessible by Chapter 11 of the International Building Code shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate. 1008.1.8.2 Hardware height. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor. Locks used only for security purposes and not used for normal operation are permitted at any height. Exception: Access doors or gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finished floor or ground, provided the self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices operated by means of a key, electronic opener or integral combination lock. 1008.1.8.3 Locks and latches. Locks and latches shall be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of the following exists: 1. Places of detention or restraint as approved by the building official. 2. In buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant load of 300 or less, Groups B, F, M and S, and in places of religious worship, the main exterior door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided: 2.1. The locking device is readily distinguishable as locked,
2.2. A readily visible durable sign is posted on the egress side on or adjacent to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED 2.3. The use of the key-operated locking device is revokable by the building official for due cause. 3. Where egress doors are used in pairs, approved automatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be used, provided that the door leaf having the automatic flush bolts has no doorknob or surface-mounted hardware on the egress side of the door. 4. Doors from individual dwelling or sleeping units of Group R occupancies having an occupant load of 10 or less are permitted to be equipped with a night latch, dead bolt or security chain, provided such devices are openable from the inside without the use of a key or tool.
5. Doors from elevator lobbies providing access to exits are permitted to be locked during or after business hours where items 5.1 through 5.5 are satisfied.
5.1. The lobby doors shall unlock automatically upon fire alarm.
5.2. The lobby doors shall unlock automatically upon power loss.
5.3. The alarm system shall include smoke detection in the elevator lobby and at least two detectors on the tenant side within 15 feet of the door;
5.4. Access through the tenant portion of the building to both exits shall be unobstructed; and
5.5. The building shall have an automatic sprinkler system throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 1008.1.8.4 Bolt locks. Manually operated flush bolts or surface bolts are not permittedon required means of egress doors. Exceptions: 1. On doors not required for egress in individual dwelling units or sleeping units. 2. Where a pair of doors serves a storage or equipment room, manually operated edgeor surface-mounted bolts or self-latching flush bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf. 1008.1.8.5 Unlatching. The unlatching of any door or leaf shall not require more than one operation. Exceptions: 1. Places of detention or restraint. 2. Where manually operated bolt locks are permitted by Section 1008.1.8.4. 3. Doors with automatic flush bolts as permitted by Section 1008.1.8.3, Exception 3. 4. Doors from individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R occupancies as permitted by Section 1008.1.8.3, Exception 4. 1008.1.8.6 Delayed egress locks. Approved, listed, delayed egress locks shall be permitted to be installed on doors serving any occupancy except Group A, E and H occupancies in buildings that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or an approved automatic smoke or heat detection system installed in accordance with Section 907, provided that the doors unlock in accordance with Items 1 through 6 below. Delayed egress locks are permitted in libraries in both Group A and E occupancies in locations other than at main exit doors, and in Group E day care occupancies. A building occupant shall not be required to pass through more than one door equipped with a delayed egress lock before entering an exit. 1. The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic sprinkler system or automatic fire detection system. 2. The doors unlock upon loss of power controlling the lock or lock mechanism. 3. The door locks shall have the capability of being unlocked by a signal from the fire command center. 4. The initiation of an irreversible process which will release the latch in not more than 15 seconds when a force of not more than 15 pounds (67 N) is applied for 1 second to the release device. Initiation of the irreversible process shall activate an audible signal in the vicinity of the door. Once the door lock has been released by the application of force to the releasing device, relocking shall be by manual means only. Exception: Where approved, a delay of not more than 30 seconds is permitted. 5. A sign shall be provided on the door located above and within 12 inches (305 mm) of the release device reading: PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 [30] SECONDS. 6. Emergency lighting shall be provided at the door. 1008.1.8.7 Stairway doors. Interior stairway means of egress doors shall be openable from both sides without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. Exceptions: 1. Stairway discharge doors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side. 2. This section shall not apply to doors arranged in accordance with Section 403.12 of the International Building Code. 3. In stairways serving not more than four stories, doors are permitted to be locked from the side opposite the egress side, provided they are openable from the egress side and capable of being unlocked simultaneously without unlatching upon a signal from the fire command center, if present, or a signal by emergency personnel from a single location inside the main entrance to the building. 1008.1.9 Panic and fire exit hardware. Where panic and fire exit hardware is installed, it shall comply with the following: 1. The actuating portion of the releasing device shall extend at least one-half of the door leaf width. 2. The maximum unlatching force shall not exceed 15 pounds (67 N). Each door in a means of egress from a Group A or E occupancy having an occupant load of 50 or more and any Group H occupancy shall not be provided with a latch or lock unless it is panic hardware or fire exit hardware. Exception: A main exit of a Group A occupancy in compliance with Section 1008.1.8.3, Item 2. Electrical rooms with equipment rated 1,200 amperes or more and over 6 feet (1829 mm) wide that contain overcurrent devices, switching devices or control devices with exit access doors must be equipped with panic hard-ware and doors must swing in the direction of egress. If balanced doors are used and panic hardware is required, the panic hardware shall be the push-pad type and the pad shall not extend more then one-half the width of the door measured from the latch side. Section 186. Subsection 1009.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1009.1 Stairway width. The width of stairways shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but such width shall not be less than 44 inches (1118 mm). See Section 1007.3 for accessible means of egress stairways. Exceptions: 1. Stairways serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall have a width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm). 2. Spiral stairways as provided for in Section 1009.8. 3. Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025. 4. Where an incline platform lift or stairway chairlift is installed on stairways serving occupancies in Group R-3, or within dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, a clear passage width not less than 20 inches (508 mm) shall be provided. If the seat and platform can be folded when not in use, the distance shall be measured from the folded position. 5. Stairways that are neither part of a required means of egress nor an accessible route. Section 187. Subsection 1009.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1009.3 Stair treads and risers. Stair riser heights shall be 7 inches (178 mm) maximum and 4 inches (102 mm) minimum. Stair tread depths shall be 11 inches (279 mm) minimum. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading edges of adjacent treads. The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's leading edge. Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 11 inches (279 mm) measured at a right angle to the tread's leading edge at a point 12 inches (305 mm) from the side where the treads are narrower and a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm). Exceptions: 1. Alternating tread devices in accordance with Section 1009.9. 2. Spiral stairways in accordance with Section 1009.8. 3. Aisle stairs in assembly seating areas where the stair pitch or slope is set, for sightline reasons, by the slope of the adjacent seating area in accordance with Section 1025.11.2. 4. In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; the maximum riser height shall be 7.75 inches (197 mm); the minimum tread depth shall be 10 inches (254 mm); the minimum winder tread depth at the walk line shall be 10 inches (254 mm); and the minimum winder tread depth shall be 6 inches (152 mm). A nosing not less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) but not more than 1.25 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with solid risers where the tread depth is lessthan 11 inches (279 mm). 5. See the Section 1027.10 for the replacement of existing stairways. 1009.3.1 Winder treads. Winder treads are not permitted in means of egress stairways except within a dwelling unit. Exceptions: 1. Curved stairways in accordance with Section 1009.7. 2. Spiral stairways in accordance with Section 1009.8. 1009.3.2 Dimensional uniformity. Stair treads and risers shall be of uniform size and shape. The tolerance between the largest and smallest riser height or between the largest and smallest tread depth shall not exceed 0.375 inch (9.5 mm) in any flight of stairs. The greatest winder tread depth at the 12-inch (305 mm) walk line within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 0.375 inch (9.5 mm) measured at a right angle to the tread's leading edge. Exceptions: 1. Nonuniform riser dimensions of aisle stairs complying with Section 1025.11.2. 2. Consistently shaped winders, complying with Section 1009.3, differing from rectangular treads in the same stairway flight.
Where the bottom or top riser adjoins a sloping public way, walkway or driveway having an established grade and serving as a landing, the bottom or top riser is permitted to be reduced along the slope. 1009.3.3 Profile. The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be not greater than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). Beveling of nosings shall not exceed 0.5 inch (12.7 mm). Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped from the underside of the leading edge of the tread above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical. The leading edge (nosings) of treads shall project not more than 1.25 inches (32 mm) beyond the tread below and all projections of the leading edges shall be of uniform size, including the leading edge of the floor at the top of a flight. Exceptions: 1. Solid risers are not required for stairways that are not required to comply with Section 1007.3, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a sphere with a diameter of 4 inches (102 mm). 2. Solid risers are not required for occupancies in Group I-3. Section 188. Subsection 1009.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1009.6 Vertical rise. A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) between floor levels or landings. Exceptions: 1. Aisle stairs complying with Section 1025. 2. Stairways that are not part of a required means of egress. Section 189. Subsection 1009.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1009.11 Stairway to roof. In buildings located four or more stories in height above grade plane, at least one stairway shall extend to the roof surface through a penthouse complying with Section 1509.2 of the International
Building Code.
Exceptions:
1. A stairway to the roof is not required in Group R-3 occupancies.
2. Penthouses are not required for roofs with a slope steeper than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33 percent slope).
3. A stairway to the roof is not required in residential buildings that do not contain a stairway shared by more than one unit.
1009.11.1 Roof access. Where a stairway is provided to Exception: A roof hatch need not be provided for stairways that extend to the roof with an opening onto that roof.
1009.11.2 Protection at roof hatch openings. Where the roof hatch opening providing the required access is located within 10 feet (3049 mm) of the roof edge, such roof access or roof edge shall be protected by guards installed in accordance with the provisions of Section 1013. Section 190. A new subsection 1009.12 is adopted to read as follows: [W] 1009.12 Ladders. Stairs or ladders within individual dwelling units used for access to areas of 200 square feet (18.6 m2) or less which do not contain the primary bathroom or kitchen are exempt from the requirements of Section 1009. Section 191. Subsection 1011.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1011.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. Access to exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Exit sign placement shall be such that no point in a corridor is more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance for the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign. Either exit signs or exit placards shall be located at any other location determined by the building official to be necessary to clearly indicate the direction of egress. Exceptions: 1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access other than in buildings designed with a single exit stairway according to Section 1019.2 exception 4. 2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the building official. 3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2 or R-3. 4. Exit signs are not required in sleeping areas in occupancies in Group I-3. 5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.
6. Exit signs are not required on exterior stairways serving exterior exit balconies.
Interpretation I1011.1: Exit placards are permitted to be used to identify exits in occupancies where exit signs are not required. Section 192. Subsection 1011.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1011.5 Externally illuminated exit signs. Externally illuminated exit signs shall comply with Sections 1011.5.1 through 1011.5.3. 1011.5.1 Graphics. Every exit sign, exit placard and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible green letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word "EXIT" shall have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (51 mm) wide, except the letter "I," and the minimum spacing between letters shall not be less than 0.375 inch (9.5 mm). Signs and placards larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height. The word "EXIT" shall be in high contrast with the background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign or placard, the construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron directional indicator cannot be readily changed. Exception: Existing exit signs or placards with letters at least 5 inches (127 mm) in height are permitted to be reused. * * * Section 193. A new subsection 1011.6 is adopted to read as follows: 1011.6 Not-an-exit warnings. Placards reading "NOT AN EXIT" shall be installed at all doorways, passageways or stairways which are not exits, exit accesses or exit discharges, and which may be mistaken for an exit. A sign indicating the use of the doorway, passageway or stairway, such as "TO BASEMENT", "STORE ROOM", "LINEN CLOSET", is permitted in lieu of the "NOT AN EXIT" sign. Section 194. Subsection 1012.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1012.4 Continuity. Handrail-gripping surfaces shall be continuous, without interruption by newel posts or other obstructions. Exceptions: 1. Handrails within dwelling units are permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at a stair or ramp landing. 2. Within a dwelling unit, the use of a volute, turnout or starting easing is allowed on the lowest tread. 3. Handrail brackets or balusters attached to the bottom surface of the handrail that do not project horizontally beyond the sides of the handrail within 1.5 inches (38 mm) of the bottom of the handrail shall not be considered obstructions. For each 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) of additional handrail perimeter dimension above 4 inches (102 mm), the vertical clearance dimension of 1.5 inches (38 mm) shall be permitted to be reduced by 0.125 inch (3 mm). 4. Handrails on stairways that are not part of a required means of egress need not be continuous. Section 195. Subsection 1012.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1012.5 Handrail extensions. Handrails shall return to a wall, guard or the walking surface or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight or ramp run. At stairways where handrails are not continuous between flights, the handrails shall extend horizontally at least 12 inches (305 mm) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of one tread beyond the bottom riser. At ramps where handrails are not continuous between runs, the handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs. Exceptions: 1. Handrails within a dwelling unit that is not required to be accessible need extend only from the top riser to the bottom riser. 2. Aisle handrails in Group A occupancies in accordance with Section 1025.13. 3. Handrail extensions are not required on handrails on stairways that are not part of a required means of egress. Section 196. Subsection 1014.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1014.2 Egress through intervening spaces. Egress through intervening spaces shall comply with this section. 1. Egress from a room or space shall not pass through adjoining or intervening rooms or areas, except where such adjoining rooms or areas are accessory to the area served, are not a high-hazard occupancy and provide a discernible path of egress travel to an exit. Exception: Means of egress are not prohibited through adjoining or intervening rooms or spaces in a Group H, S or F occupancy when the adjoining or intervening rooms or spaces are the same or a lesser hazard occupancy group. 2. Egress shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms, closets or spaces used for similar purposes. Exceptions: 1. Means of egress are not prohibited through a kitchen area serving adjoining rooms constituting part of the same dwelling unit or sleeping unit. 2. Means of egress are not prohibited through stockrooms in Group M occupancies when all of the following are met: 2.1. The stock is of the same hazard classification as that found in the main retail area; 2.2. Not more than 50 percent of the exit access is through the stockroom; 2.3. The stockroom is not subject to locking from the egress side; and 2.4. There is a demarcated, minimum 44-inch-wide (1118 mm) aisle defined by full or partial height fixed walls or similar construction that will maintain the required width and lead directly from the retail area to the exit without obstructions. 3. An exit access shall not pass through a room that can be locked to prevent egress. 4. Means of egress from dwelling units or sleeping areas shall not lead through other sleeping areas, toilet rooms or bathrooms. 3. Unless approved by the building official, where two or more exits are required, exit travel shall not pass through an exit enclosure as the only way to reach another exit. 1014.2.1 Multiple tenants. Where more than one tenant occupies any one floor of a building or structure, each tenant space, dwelling unit and sleeping unit shall be provided with access to the required exits without passing through adjacent tenant spaces, dwelling units and sleeping units. Exception: Means of egress shall not be prohibited through adjoining tenant space where such rooms or spaces occupy less than 10 percent of the area of the tenant space through which they pass; are the same or similar occupancy group; a discernable path of egress travel to an exit is provided; and the means of egress into the adjoining space is not subject to locking from the egress side. A required means of egress serving the larger tenant space shall not pass through the smaller tenant space or spaces. [W] 1014.2.2 Group I-2. Habitable rooms or suites in Group I-2 occupancies shall have an exit access door leading directly to a corridor.
Exception
100 feet (30 480 mm).
1014.2.2.1 Definition. For the purposes of this section, a suite is a cluster of rooms or spaces sharing common circulation. Partitions within a suite are not required to have smoke or fire-resistance-rated construction unless required by
another section of this code.
1014.2.3 Suites in patient sleeping areas. Patient sleeping areas in Group I-2 occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites if one of the following conditions is met:
1. The intervening room within the suite is not used as an exit access for more than eight patient beds.
2. The arrangement of the suite allows for direct and constant visual supervision by nursing personnel.
1014.2.3.1 Area. Suites of sleeping rooms shall not exceed 5,000 square feet (465 m2).
1014.2.3.2 Exit access. Any patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient sleeping rooms, of more than 1,000 square feet (93m2) shall have at least two exit access doors remotely located from each other.
1014.2.3.3 Travel distance. The travel distance between any point in a suite of sleeping rooms and an exit access door of that suite shall not exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm).
1014.2.4 Suites in areas other than patient sleeping areas. Areas other than patient sleeping areas in Group I-2 Occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites.
1014.2.4.1 Area. Suites of rooms, other than patient sleeping rooms, shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m2).
1014.2.4.2 Exit access. Any room or suite of rooms, other than patient sleeping rooms, of more than 2,500 square feet (232 m2) shall have at least two exit access doors remotely located from each other.
1014.2.4.3 One intervening room. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms, suites of rooms are permitted to have one intervening room if the travel distance within the suite is not greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
1014.2.4.4 Two intervening rooms. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms located within a suite, exit access travel from within the suite shall be permitted through two intervening rooms where the travel distance to the exit access door is not
greater than 50 feet (15 240 mm).
1014.2.5 Travel distance. The travel distance between any point in a Group I-2 occupancy patient room and an exit access door in that room shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
1014.2.6 Separation. Suites in Group I-2 occupancies shall be separated from other portions of the building by a smoke partition complying with Section 710 of the International Building Code. Section 197. Subsection 1014.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1014.5 Egress balconies. Balconies used for egress purposes shall conform to the same requirements as corridors for width, headroom, dead ends and projections. 1014.5.1 Wall separation. Exterior egress balconies shall be separated from the interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required for corridors. Exceptions: 1. Separation is not required where the exterior egress balcony is served by at least two stairs and a dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an unprotected opening to reach a stair. 2. Separation is not required in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 1014.5.2 Openness. The long side of an egress balcony shall be at least 50 percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases. Section 198. Subsection 1015.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W] 1015.1 Exit or exit access doorways 1. The occupant load of the space exceeds one of the values in Table 1015.1. Exception: One means of egress is permitted within and from dwelling units with a maximum occupant load of 20 where the dwelling unit is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 2. The common path of egress travel exceeds one of the limitations of Section 1014.3.
3. Where required by Sections 1015.3, 1015.4, Exception: Group I-2 occupancies shall comply with Section 1014.2.2. Note: See Section 1008.1.8.3 for conditions in which exit access doors from elevator lobbies are permitted to be locked. TABLE 1015.1 SPACES WITH ONE MEANS OF EGRESS TABLE 1015.1 SPACES WITH ONE MEANS OF EGRESS OCCUPANCY MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD A, B, Ea, F, M, U 49 H-1, H-2, H-3 3 H-4, H-5, I-1, I-3, I-4, R 10 S 29 a. Day care maximum occupant load is 10.
[W] 1015.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways. Section 199. Subsection 1015.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1015.2 Exit or exit access doorway arrangement. Required exits shall be located in a manner that makes their availability obvious. Exits shall be unobstructed at all times. Exit and exit access doorways shall be arranged in accordance with Sections 1015.2.1 and 1015.2.2. 1015.2.1 Two exits or exit access doorways. Where two exits or exit access doorways are required from any portion of the exit access, the exit doors or exit access doorways shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served measured in a straight line between exit doors or exit access doorways. Interlocking or scissor stairs and stairways that share a wall with other exit enclosures shall be counted as one exit stairway. Exceptions: 1. Where exit enclosures are provided as a portion of the required exit and are interconnected by a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated corridor conforming to the requirements of Section 1017, the required exit separation shall be measured along the shortest direct line of travel within the corridor. Interpretation I1015.2: Exception 1 applies only where corridors have a onehour fire-resistance-rating even where Section 1017 would allow non-rated corridors. 2. Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the separation distance of the exit doors or exit access doorways shall not be less than onethird of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the area served. 3. Where it is not practical to separate exits by one-half the diagonal dimension, exits from retail and office tenant spaces in Group B and M occupancies and within dwelling units shall be as far apart as reasonably practicable, as determined by the building official. 1015.2.2 Three or more exits or exit access doorways. Where access to three or more exits is required, at least two exit doors or exit access doorways shall be arranged in accordance with the provisions of Section 1015.2.1. Section 200. Subsection 1016.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1016.1 Travel distance limitations. Exits shall be so located on each story such that the maximum length of exit access travel, measured from the most remote point within a story to the entrance to an exit along the natural and unobstructed path of egress travel, shall not exceed the distances given in Table 1016.1. Where the path of exit access includes unenclosed stairways or ramps within the exit access or includes unenclosed exit ramps or stairways as permitted in Section 1020.1, the distance of travel on such means of egress components shall also be included in the travel distance measurement. The measurement along stairways shall be made on a plane parallel and tangent to the stair tread nosings in the center of the stairway. Exceptions: 1. Travel distance in open parking garages is permitted to be measured to the closest riser of open stairs. 2. In outdoor facilities with open exit access components and open exterior stairs or ramps, travel distance is permitted to be measured to the closest riser of a stair or the closest slope of the ramp. 3. Where an exit stair is permitted to be unenclosed in accordance with Exception 8 or 9 of Section 1020.1, the travel distance shall be measured from the most remote point within a building to an exit discharge. TABLE 1016.1 EXIT ACCESS TRAVEL DISTANCEa OCCUPANCY WITHOUT WITH SPRINKLER SPRINKLER SYSTEM SYSTEM (feet) (feet) A, E, F-1, I-1, M, 200 250b R, S-1 B 200 300c F-2, S-2, U 300 400c H-1 Not Permitted 75c H-2 Not Permitted 100c H-3 Not Permitted 150c H-4 Not Permitted 175c H-5 Not Permitted 200c I-2, I-3, I-4 150 200c For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. a. See the following sections for modifications to exit access travel distance requirements: Section 402 of the International Building Code: For the distance limitation in malls. Section 404 of the International Building Code: For the distance limitation through an atrium space. Section 1016.2 For increased limitations in Groups F-1 and S-1. Section 1025.7: For increased limitation in assembly seating. Section 1025.7: For increased limitation for assembly open-air seating. Section 1019.2: For buildings with one exit. Chapter 31 of the International Building Code: For the limitation in temporary structures. b. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. See Section 903 for occupancies where automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 are permitted.
c. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Note: Additional exit enclosures or corridors constructed as smoke barriers may be required for standpipe hose connections. See Section 905.4 Section 201. Subsection 1017.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1017.1 Construction. Corridors shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Table 1017.1. The corridor walls required to be fire-resistance rated shall comply with Section 708 of the International Building Code for fire partitions. Exceptions: 1. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in an occupancy in Group E where each room that is used for instruction has at least one door directly to the exterior and rooms for assembly purposes have at least one-half of the required means of egress doors opening directly to the exterior. Exterior doors specified in this exception are required to be at ground level. 2. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors contained within a dwelling or sleeping unit in an occupancy in Group R. 3. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in open parking garages. 4. A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors in an occupancy in Group B which is a space requiring only a single means of egress complying with Section 1015.1.
[W] 5. In Group R-2 boarding homes and residential treatment facilities licensed by Washington State, rest areas constructed as required for corridors shall be allowed to be open to the corridor provided:
5.1 The area does not exceed 150 square feet (13.9 m2), excluding the corridor width;
5.2 The floor is separated into at least two compartments complying with Section 407.4;
5.3 Combustible furnishings located within the rest area shall be in accordance with International Fire Code Section 805; and
5.4 Emergency means of egress lighting is provided as required by Section 1006 to illuminate the area.
6. In office areas located in buildings of Types IA or IB construction, corridor walls need not be of fire-resistance-rated construction where the corridor side of the corridor walls is finished with materials having a maximum Class B rating as defined
in Chapter 8. This exception does not apply to outpatient clinics and medical offices. 7. The occupant load of Group B conference rooms, lunch rooms without grease-producing cooking and other assembly rooms with an occupant load of less than 50 in each room need not be considered when determining whether corridor construction is required, provided such rooms are accessory to an office tenant located in a building of Type IA or IB construction. This provision is permitted to be used in other construction types when the floor on which the assembly room is located is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. TABLE 1017.1CORRIDOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING REQUIRED FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours) OCCUPANCY OCCUPANT LOAD SERVED BY Without sprinkler With sprinkler CORRIDOR system systemc H-1, H-2, All Not Permitted 1 H-3 H-4, H-5 Greater than 30 Not Permitted 1 A, B, E, F, Greater than 30 1 0 M, S, U
R I-2a, I-4 All Not Permitted 0 I-1, I-3 All Not Permitted 1b a. For requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 407.3. b. For a reduction in the fire-resistance rating for occupancies in Group I-3, see Section 408.7. c. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 where allowed. Section 202. Subsection 1017.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1017.3 Dead ends. Where more than one exit or exit access doorway is required, the exit access shall be arranged such that there are no dead ends in corridors more than Exceptions: 1. In occupancies in Group I-3 of Occupancy Condition 2, 3 or 4 (see Section 308.4), the dead end in a corridor shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). 2. In occupancies in Groups B and F where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the length of dead-end corridors shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). 3. A dead-end corridor shall not be limited in length where the length of the dead-end corridor is less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end corridor. 4. Dead ends are permitted to be 75 feet (22 860 mm) in length in areas containing Group B offices in buildings of Types IA and IB construction, where the cumulative occupant load does not exceed 50 for all areas for which the dead end serves as the only means of egress. Section 203. Subsection 1017.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1017.4 Air movement in corridors. Corridors shall not serve as supply, return, exhaust, relief or ventilation air ducts or plenums except as allowed by Mechanical Code Section 601.2.
1. Use of a corridor as a source of makeup air for exhaust systems in rooms that open directly onto such corridors, including toilet rooms, bathrooms, dressing rooms, smoking lounges and janitor closets, shall be permitted, provided that each such
corridor is directly supplied with outdoor air at a rate greater than the rate of makeup air taken from the corridor.
2. Where located within a dwelling unit, the use of corridors for conveying return air shall not be prohibited.
3. Where located within tenant spaces of 1,000 square feet (93 m2) or less in area, utilization of corridors for conveying return air is permitted. 1017.4.1 Corridor ceiling. Use of the space between the corridor ceiling and the floor or roof structure above as a return air plenum is permitted for one or more of the following conditions: 1. The corridor is not required to be of fire-resistance-rated construction; 2. The corridor is separated from the plenum by fire-resistance-rated construction; 3. The air-handling system serving the corridor is shut down upon activation of the air-handling unit smoke detectors required by the International Mechanical Code. 4. The air-handling system serving the corridor is shut down upon detection of sprinkler waterflow where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system; or 5. The space between the corridor ceiling and the floor or roof structure above the corridor is used as a component of an approved engineered smoke control system. Section 204. A new subsection 1017.6 is adopted to read as follows: [W] 1017.6 Subdivision of building spaces smoke barriers. Smoke barriers complying with Section 709 shall be installed on floors other than the level of exit discharge of a Group R-2 boarding home or residential treatment facility licensed by Washington State, where a fire-resistance rated corridor is required by Table 1017.1. The smoke barrier shall subdivide the floor into at least two compartments complying with Section 407.4 of the International Building Code. Section 205. Subsection 1018.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1018.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have at least one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1008.1.1 and Section 1008.1.2. 1018.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1008.1. 1018.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way. Section 206. Subsection 1019.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W] 1019.1
Exceptions:
1. Occupied roofs with an occupant load of 10 or less are permitted to have one exit.
2. Access to only one exit or exit-access doorway is permitted for floors below the first story above grade plane where:
2.1 The area of the floor does not exceed 900 square feet (83.61 m2);
2.2 Travel distance is less than 50 feet (15 240 mm); and
2.3 The floor contains only storage rooms, laundry rooms, and maintenance offices.
3. Spaces meeting the requirements of Section 1015 for a single exit are permitted to be provided with one exit where the exit for the space discharges directly to the public way or an exit court.
[W] 4. One means of egress is permitted within and from dwelling units with a maximum occupant load of 20 where the dwelling unit is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. * * * Section 207. Subsection 1019.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[W] 1019.2 Buildings with one exit. Only one exit shall be required in buildings as
1. Buildings 2. Buildings of Group R-3 occupancy.
3. Single-level buildings with
4. Not more than 5 stories of Group R-2 occupancy in buildings not over 6 stories are permitted to be served by a single exit under the following conditions:
4.1. There shall be no more than four dwelling units on any floor.
4.2. The building shall be of not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction and shall also be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Residential-type sprinkler heads shall be used in all
habitable spaces in each dwelling unit.
4.3. There shall be no more than two single exit stairway conditions on the same property.
4.4. An exterior stairway or exit enclosure shall be provided. The exit enclosure, including any related exit passageway, shall be pressurized in accordance with Section 909.21. Doors in the exit enclosure shall swing into the exit enclosure
regardless of the occupant load served, provided that doors from the exit enclosure to the building exterior are permitted to swing in the direction of exit travel.
4.5. A corridor shall separate each dwelling unit entry/exit door from the door to an exit enclosure, including any related exit passageway, on each floor. Dwelling unit doors shall not open directly into an enclosed stairway. Dwelling unit doors are
permitted to open directly into an exterior stairway.
4.6. There shall be no more than 20 feet (6096 mm) of travel to the exit stairway from the entry/exit door of any dwelling unit.
4.7. Travel distance measured in accordance with Section 1016.1 shall not exceed 125 feet.
4.8 The exit shall not terminate in an exit court where the court depth exceeds the court width unless it is possible to exit in either direction to the public way.
4.9. Elevators shall be pressurized in accordance with Section 707.14.2 of the International Building Code or shall open into elevator lobbies. Elevator lobbies shall be separated from the remainder of the building and from the exit stairway with fire
partitions. Doors shall be automatic closing actuated by smoke detector. Where approved by the building official, natural ventilation is permitted to be substituted for pressurization where the ventilation would prevent the accumulation of smoke or
toxic gases.
4.10. Other occupancies are permitted in the same building provided they comply with all the requirements of this code. Other occupancies shall not communicate with the Group R occupancy portion of the building or with the single-exit stairway.
Exception: Parking garages accessory to the Group R occupancy are permitted to communicate with the exit stairway.
4.11. The exit serving the Group R occupancy shall not discharge through any other occupancy, including an accessory parking garage; and
4.12. There shall be no openings within 10 feet (3048 mm) of unprotected openings into the stairway other than required exit doors having a one-hour fire-resistance rating. * * * Section 208. Subsection 1020.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1020.1 Enclosures required. Interior exit stairways and interior exit ramps shall be enclosed with fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with
Section 711 of the International Building Code, or both. Exit enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting more than four stories Exceptions: 1. In all occupancies, other than Group H and I occupancies, a stairway is not required to be enclosed when the stairway serves an occupant load of less than 10 and the stairway complies with either Item 1.1 or 1.2. In all cases, the maximum number of connecting open stories shall not exceed two. 1.1. The stairway is open to not more than one story above the story at the level of exit discharge, or 1.2. The stairway is open to not more than one story below the story at the level of exit discharge. 2. Exits in buildings of Group A-5 where all portions of the means of egress are essentially open to the outside need not be enclosed. 3. Stairways serving and contained within a single residential dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, R-2 or R-3 occupancies are not required to be enclosed. 4. Stairways that are not a required means of egress element are not required to be enclosed where such stair-ways comply with Section 707.2 of the International Building Code. 5. Stairways in open parking structures that serve only the parking structure are not required to be enclosed. 6. Stairways in Group I-3 occupancies, as provided for in Section 408.3.6 of the International Building Code, are not required to be enclosed. 7. Means of egress stairways as required by Section 410.5.3 of the International Building Code are not required to be enclosed. 8. In other than Group H and I occupancies, a maximum of 50 percent of egress stairways serving one adjacent floor are not required to be enclosed, provided at least two means of egress are provided from both floors served by the unenclosed stairways. Any two such interconnected floors shall not be open to other floors. Unenclosed exit stairways shall be remotely located as required in Section 1015.2. 9. In other than Group H and I occupancies, interior egress stairways serving only the first and second stories of a building equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 are not required to be enclosed, provided at least two means of egress are provided from both floors served by the unenclosed stairways. Such inter-connected stories shall not be open to other stories. Unenclosed exit stairways shall be remotely located as required in Section 1015.2. 1020.1.1 Openings and penetrations. Exit enclosure opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 715 of the International Building Code. Except as permitted in Section 402.4.6 of the International Building Code, openings in exit enclosures other than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those necessary for exit access to the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the enclosure. Where interior exit enclosures are extended to the exterior of a building by an exit passageway, the door assembly from the exit enclosure to the exit passageway shall be protected by a fire door assembly conforming to the requirements in Section 715.4 of the International Building Code. Fire door assemblies in exit enclosures shall comply with Section 715.4.4 of the International Building Code. Elevators shall not open into an exit enclosure. Interpretation I1020.1: Accessory rooms such as restrooms, storage closets, laundry rooms, electrical, communication closets and similar spaces shall not open into an exit enclosure. 1020.1.2 Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings through an exit enclosure are prohibited except for required exit doors, equipment and ductwork necessaryfor independent pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway for fire department communication systems and sprinkler monitoring, and electrical raceway serving the exit enclosure and terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Piping used exclusively for the drainage of rainfall runoff from roof areas is permitted to penetrate exit enclosures, provided the roof is not used for a helistop or heliport. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code. Unfired unit heaters required for freeze protection of fire protection equipment are permitted to penetrate one membrane. The conduit serving the heater is permitted to penetrate both membranes. There shall be no penetrations or communication openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent exit enclosures. 1020.1.3 Ventilation. Equipment and ductwork for exit enclosure ventilation as permitted by Section 1020.1.2 shall comply with one of the following items: 1. Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the exit enclosure by ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts. 2. Where such equipment and ductwork is located within the exit enclosure, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts. 3. Where located within the building, such equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts. In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 715 of the International Building Code for shaft enclosures. Exit enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. 1020.1.4 Exit enclosure exterior walls. Exterior walls of an exit enclosure shall comply with the requirements of Section 704 of the International Building Code for exterior walls. Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the exterior of the stairway and the walls or openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), the building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the top-most landing of the stairway or to the roof line, whichever is lower. 1020.1.5 Discharge identification barrier. A stairway in an exit enclosure shall not continue below the level of exit discharge unless an approved barrier is provided at the level of exit discharge to prevent persons from unintentionally continuing into levels below. Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in Section 1011.
1020.1.6 Stairway 1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405 of the International Building Code, each of the exits of a building that serves stories where the floor surface is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access or more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the level of exit discharge serving such floor levels shall be a smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stairway in accordance with Section 909.20. 1020.1.7.1 Enclosure exit. A smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stairway shall exit into a public way or into an exit passageway, yard or open space having direct access to a public way. The exit passageway shall be without other openings and shall be separated from the remainder of the building by 2-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Exceptions: 1. Openings in the exit passageway serving a smokeproof enclosure are permitted where the exit passageway is protected and pressurized in the same manner as the smokeproof enclosure, and openings are protected as required for access from other floors. 2. Openings in the exit passageway serving a pressurized stairway are permitted where the exit passageway is protected and pressurized in the same manner as the pressurized stairway. 3. A smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stair-way shall be permitted to egress through areas on the level of discharge or vestibules as permitted by Section 1024. 1020.1.7.2 Enclosure access. Access to the stairway within a smokeproof enclosure shall be by way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony. Exception: Access is not required by way of a vestibule or exterior balcony for stairways using the pressurization alternative complying with Section 909.20.5. Section 209. A new subsection 1020.1.8 is adopted to read as follows: 1020.1.8 Equipment in exit enclosures. Equipment is prohibited in exit enclosures except for equipment necessary for independent pressurization, lighting of the exit enclosure, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical equipment for fire department communication and sprinkler monitoring, and unit heaters required to protect fire protection equipment from freezing. Section 210. Subsection 1021.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1021.1 Exit passageway. Exit passageways serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. An exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress, circulation and access. Section 211. Subsection 1021.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1021.4 Openings and penetrations. Exit passageway opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 715 of the International Building Code. Except as permitted in Section 402.4.6 of the International Building Code, openings in exit passageways other than unexposed exterior openings shall be limited to those necessary for exit access to the exit passageway from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the exit passageway. Where interior exit enclosures are extended to the exterior of a building by an exit passageway, the door assembly from the exit enclosure to the exit passageway shall be protected by a fire door conforming to the requirements in Section 715.4 of the International Building Code. Fire door assemblies in exit passageways shall comply with Section 715.4.4 of the International Building Code. Elevators shall not open into an exit passageway. Interpretation I1021.4: Accessory rooms such as restrooms, storage closets, laundry rooms, electrical, communication closets and similar spaces shall not open into exit passageways.
Code Alternate CA1021.4: An elevator is permitted to open into an exit passageway when the following conditions are met:
1. A lobby separates the elevator from the exit passageway. This is allowed at only one location in the building. The lobby is required whether the elevator hoistway is pressurized or not.
2. The separation shall be constructed as a fire barrier having a fireresistive rating and opening protectives as for the exit passageway. The door between the lobby and the exit passageway shall also comply with Section 715.4.3 of the International
Building Code. The door shall have listed gaskets installed at head, jambs and meeting edges. This only applies to the walls common with the exit passageway.
3. The lobby shall have a minimum depth of 36 inches. (Note that areas of refuge may require a larger dimension).
4. An elevator lobby constructed as a smoke partition shall be provided at every floor below the level of the exit passageway served by the elevator. Hoistway pressurization is permitted to be used in lieu of the lobbies on floors below the level of
the exit passageway.
5. A door as required by Section 1020.1.1 between a vertical exit enclosure and the exit passageway shall be provided.
6. An automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be provided throughout the floor on which the exit passageway is located.
This alternate does not apply to vertical exit enclosures. Section 212. Subsection 1021.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1021.5 Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings through an exit passageway are prohibited except for required exit doors, equipment and ductwork necessary for independent pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway for fire department communication and electrical raceway serving the exit passageway and terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code. There shall be no penetrations or communicating openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent exit passageways. Exception: Unfired unit heaters allowed by Section 1020.1.8 to be installed in exit enclosures are permitted to penetrate one membrane. The conduit serving the heater is permitted to penetrate both membranes. Section 213. Subsection 1023.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1023.3 Open side. Exterior exit ramps and stairways serving as an element of a required means of egress shall be at least 50 percent open on at least one side. An open side shall have a minimum of Section 214. Subsection 1024.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1024.1 General. Exits shall discharge directly to the exterior of the building. The exit discharge shall be at grade or shall provide direct access to grade. The exit discharge shall not reenter a building except into an exit or as
otherwise approved by the building official Exceptions: 1. A maximum of 50 percent of the number and capacity of the exit enclosures is permitted to egress through areas on the level of discharge provided all of the following are met: 1.1. Such exit enclosures egress to a free and unobstructed way to the exterior of the building, which way is readily visible and identifiable from the point of termination of the exit enclosure. 1.2. The entire area of the level of discharge is separated from areas below by construction conforming to the fire-resistance rating for the exit enclosure. Parking garage ramps are permitted to penetrate the floor of the level of discharge. 1.3. The egress path from the exit enclosure on the level of discharge is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system. All portions of the level of discharge with access to the egress path shall either be protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, or separated from the egress path in accordance with the requirements for the enclosure of exits. 2. A maximum of 50 percent of the number and capacity of the exit enclosures is permitted to egress through a vestibule provided all of the following are met: 2.1. The entire area of the vestibule is separated from areas below by construction conforming to the fire-resistance rating for the exit enclosure. 2.2. The depth from the exterior of the building is not greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) and the length is not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm). 2.3. The area is separated from the remainder of the level of exit discharge by construction providing protection at least the equivalent of approved wired glass in steel frames. 2.4. The area is used only for means of egress and exits directly to the outside. 3. Stairways in open parking garages complying with Section 1020.1, Exception 5, are permitted to egress through the open parking garage at the level of exit discharge. Section 215. Subsection 1024.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1024.5 Egress courts. Egress courts serving as a portion of the exit discharge in the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of Section 1024. 1024.5.1 Width. The width of egress courts shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but such width shall not be less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except as specified herein. Egress courts serving Group R-3 and U occupancies shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width. The required width of egress courts shall be unobstructed to a height of 7 feet (2134 mm). Exception: Doors, when fully opened, and handrails shall not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half. Other nonstructural projections such as trim and similar decorative features are permitted to project into the required width 1.5 inches (38 mm) from each side. Where an egress court exceeds the minimum required width and the width of such egress court is then reduced along the path of exit travel, the reduction in width shall be gradual. The transition in width shall be affected by a guard not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and shall not create an angle of more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) with respect to the axis of the egress court along the path of egress travel. In no case shall the width of the egress court be less than the required minimum. 1024.5.2 Construction and openings. Where an egress court serving a building or portion thereof is less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in width, the egress court walls shall have not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor of the court. Openings within such walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour. Exceptions: 1. Egress courts serving an occupant load of less than 10. 2. Egress courts serving Group R-3. 3. In buildings other than those which have a single means of egress under Section 1019.2 exception 4, opening protection need not be provided where it is possible to exit in two directions from the court. Section 216. Subsection 1025.13.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 217. Subsection 1106.5.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: [W]1106.5.1 Positioning of aircraft fuel-servicing vehicles. Aircraftfueling vehicles shall not be located, parked or permitted to stand in a position where such unit would obstruct egress from an aircraft should a fire occur during fuel-transfer operations. Tank vehicles shall not be located, parked or permitted to stand under any portion of an aircraft except during refueling. Section 218. Subsection 1207.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1207.3 Solvent storage tanks. Solvent storage tanks for Class II, IIIA and IIIB liquids shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 34 and be located underground or outside, aboveground. Exceptions:
1. As provided in NFPA 32 for inside storage of 2. Solvent tanks located within approved rooms or buildings in accordance with Section 3405.3.7 for use, mixing and dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids. Section 219. A new subsection 1303.1.1 is adopted to read as follows: 1303.1.1 Static accumulation. When processes or conditions exist where combustible dust could be ignited by static electricity, means shall be provided to prevent the accumulation of a static charge. Section 220. Subsection 1404.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1404.5 Fire watch. Fire watch for buildings under construction or alteration shall be provided in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.06.07 Out-Of-Service Fire Alarm, Standpipe, Fire Sprinkler and Emergency Alarm Systems. When required by the fire code official for building demolition that is hazardous in nature, qualified personnel shall be provided to serve as an on-site fire watch. Fire watch personnel shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department and their sole duty shall be to perform constant patrols and watch for the occurrence of fire. Section 221. Subsection 1404.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1404.6 Section 222. Subsection 1410.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1410.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for fire fighting shall be provided to within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100 feet (30480 mm) of temporary or permanent fire department connections. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under all weather conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are available. Section 223. Subsection 1411.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
[B] 1411.3 Stairway floor number signs. Temporary stairway floor number signs shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section Section 224. Subsection 1413.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1413.1 Where required. Buildings four or more stories in height shall be provided with not less than one Class I standpipe in accordance with Section 905 for use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed when the progress of construction is not more than 40 feet (12192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department access. Such standpipe shall be provided with fire department hose connections at accessible locations adjacent to usable stairs. Such standpipes shall be extended as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring. Section 225. Subsection 1414.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1414.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the International Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section 105.3.3 and Administrative Rule 9.06.07 Partial/Phased Occupancy, Occupancy During Construction and Temporary Certificates of Occupancy. Section 226. Subsection 1504.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1504.2 Location of spray-finishing operations. Spray finishing operations conducted in buildings used for Group A, E, I or R occupancies shall be located in a spray room protected with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and separated vertically and horizontally from other areas in accordance with the International Building Code. In other occupancies, spray-finishing operations shall be conducted in a spray room, spray booth or spraying space approved for such use. Exceptions: 1. Automobile undercoating spray operations and spray-on automotive lining operations conducted in areas with approved natural or mechanical ventilation shall be exempt from the provisions of Section 1504 when approved and where utilizing Class IIIA or IIIB combustible liquids. 2. In buildings other than Group A, E, I or R occupancies, approved limited spraying space in accordance with Section 1504.9. 3. Resin application areas used for manufacturing of reinforced plastics complying with Section 1509 shall not be required to be located in a spray room, spray booth or spraying space. Spray-finishing operations shall not be conducted in basements. Section 227. Subsection 1504.7 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1504.7 Ventilation. Mechanical ventilation of flammable vapor areas shall be provided in accordance with Sections 502.7 and 510 of the International Mechanical Code. Section 228. Subsection 1504.7.8.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
1504.7.8.5 Filter disposal. Discarded filter pads shall be immediately Section 229. Subsection 1504.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1504.9 Limited spraying spaces. Limited spraying spaces shall comply with Sections 1504.9.1 through 1504.9.4. Limited spraying spaces are prohibited when they are used as the exclusive location for spray finishing operations where auto refinishing and collision repair are the primary business. * * * Section 230. Subsection 1703.2.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 1703.2.1 Electricity. Electricity shall be shut off.
Exception: Circulating fans that have been specifically designed for utilization in hazardous atmospheres and installed in accordance with the Section 231. Subsection 2201.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2201.1 Scope. Automotive motor fuel-dispensing facilities, marine motor fueldispensing facilities, fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facilities and repair garages shall be in accordance with this chapter and the International Building Code, City of Seattle Stormwater, Grading & Drainage Control Code and DPD Director's Rule 17-2000, International Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical Code. Such operations shall include both operations that are accessible to the public and private operations. For provisions relating to the transfer of flammable and combustible liquids directly from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles located at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments, see Section 3406.5.4.5. Section 232. Subsection 2202.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. * * *
FIRE DISTRICT. That part of the city within the boundary described in Section 401 of the Seattle Building Code as follows:
Beginning at the intersection of the center line of Alaskan Way and Clay Street; thence northeasterly along the center line of Clay Street to an intersection with the center line of Denny Way; thence easterly along the center line of Denny Way to an
intersection with the center line of Yale Avenue; thence southeasterly along the center line of Yale Avenue to an intersection with the center line of Interstate Highway 5; thence southerly and southeasterly along the center line of Interstate 5 to an
intersection with the center line of 7th Avenue South; thence southerly along the center line of 7th Avenue South to an intersection with the center line of Dearborn Street; thence westerly along the center line of Dearborn Street to an intersection
with the center line of Airport Way; thence northwesterly along the center line of Airport Way to an intersection with the center line of 4th Avenue South; thence southerly along the center line of 4th Avenue south to an intersection with the center
line of South Royal Brougham Way; thence westerly along said center line of South Royal Brougham Way to an intersection with the center line of South Alaskan Way; thence southerly along the center line of South Alaskan Way to an intersection with the
center line of South Massachusetts Street; thence westerly along the centerline of South Massachusetts Street to the Outer Harbor Line in Elliott Bay; thence northerly and northwesterly along said Outer Harbor Line to an intersection with the center
line of West Harrison Street; thence easterly along the center line of West Harrison Street to an intersection with the center line of Alaskan Way; then southeasterly along the center line of Alaskan Way to the point of beginning.
For a map of the City of Seattle Fire District, see the Seattle Building Code. * * *
MARINE MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITY. That portion of property where flammable or combustible liquids or gases used as fuel for
Point of Information
Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities are not to be confused with marine bulk plants that transfer fuel by way of flange-to-flange connections. Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities use automotive-type dispensing equipment for fueling
primarily pleasure craft.
MOTOR VEHICLE includes, but is not limited to, a vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer or semitrailer, or any combination thereof, propelled or drawn by mechanical power and used upon the highways in the transportation of passengers or property. It
does not include a vehicle, locomotive or car operated exclusively on a rail or rails, or a trolley bus operated by electric power derived from a fixed overhead wire, furnishing local passenger transportation similar to street-railway service. The term
"motor vehicle" also includes freight containers or cargo tanks used, or intended for use, in connection with motor vehicles.
For reference, see 49 CFR Pt. 171.8 (October 2005).
MOTOR VEHICLE, UNATTENDED A motor vehicle where the driver is located such that the driver cannot see the motor vehicle or hear noises in or near the motor vehicle.
Exceptions:
1. Necessary absence in connection with loading and unloading the motor vehicle.
2. Stops for meals during the day or night, if the point of parking is well lighted.
3. When in case of accident or other emergency, the driver must leave to obtain assistance. * * * Section 233. Subsection 2203.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2203.2 Emergency disconnect switches. An approved, clearly identified and readily accessible emergency disconnect switch shall be provided at an approved location, to stop the transfer of fuel to the fuel dispensers in the event of a fuel spill or other emergency. An emergency disconnect switch for exterior fuel dispensers shall be located within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of, but not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) from, the fuel dispensers. For interior fuel-dispensing operations, the emergency disconnect switch shall be installed at an approved location. Such devices shall be distinctly labeled as: EMERGENCY FUEL SHUTOFF. Signs shall be provided in approved locations and letters shall not be less than 3 inches (76.2 mm) in height and 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in stroke. Section 234. Subsection 2204.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2204.4 Dispensing into portable containers. The dispensing of flammable or combustible liquids into portable approved containers shall comply with Sections2204.4.1 through 2204.4.3. 2204.4.1 Approved containers required. Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall not be dispensed into a portable container unless such container is of approved material and construction, and has a tight closure with screwed or spring-loaded cover so designed that the contents can be dispensed without spilling. Liquids shall not be dispensed into portable tanks or cargo tanks. It shall be unlawful to sell, offer for sale or distribute any container for the storage and/or handling of flammable liquids, unless such container has been approved for such purpose under applicable provisions of this code. * * * Section 235. Subsection 2205.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2205.1 Tank filling operations for Class I, II, 2205.1.1 Delivery vehicle location. Where liquid delivery to above-ground storage tanks is accomplished by positivepressure operation, tank vehicles shall be positioned a minimum of 25 feet (7620 mm) from tanks receiving Class I liquids and 15 feet (4572 mm) from tanks receiving Class II and IIIA liquids.
2205.1.2 Tank capacity calculation. The driver, operator or attendant of a tank vehicle shall, before making delivery to a tank, manually gauge the tank todetermine the unfilled, available capacity of such tank * * * Section 236. Subsection 2206.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2206.2 Method of storage. Approved methods of storage for Class I, II, 2206.2.1 Underground tanks. Underground tanks for the storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquid fuels shall comply with Chapter 34.
Point of Information
The fire code official is authorized to defer regulation of underground storage tank installations to the Washington State Department of Ecology. 2206.2.1.1 Inventory control for underground tanks. Accurate daily inventory records shall be maintained and reconciled on underground fuel storage tanks for indication of possible leakage from tanks and piping. The records shall be kept at the premises or made available for inspection by the fire code official within 24 hours of a written or verbal request and shall include records for each product showing daily reconciliation between sales, use, receipts and inventory on hand. Where there is more than one system consisting of tanks serving separate pumps or dispensers for a product, the reconciliation shall be ascertained separately for each tank system. A consistent or accidental loss of product shall be immediately reported to the fire code official.
2206.2.2 Above-ground tanks located inside buildings. Above-ground tanks for the storage of Class I, II,
Exceptions:
1. Above-ground tanks listed and labeled as protected above-ground tanks containing Class I flammable liquids and having an individual capacity not exceeding 120 gallons (454 L) are not required to be located in special enclosures or in a liquid storage
room or warehouse.
2. Above-ground tanks listed and labeled as protected above-ground tanks containing Class II or III-A combustible liquids and having an individual capacity not exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) ) are not required to be located in special enclosures or in a
liquid storage room or warehouse.
3. Aboveground tanks for Class III-B liquids not exceeding a maximum individual capacity of 13,200 gallons (49 967 L) in unsprinklered buildings.
4. Aboveground tanks for Class III-B liquids in sprinklered buildings.
2206.2.3 Above-ground tanks located outside, above grade. Above-ground tanks shall not be used for the storage of Class I, II, 1. Above-ground tanks used for outside, above-grade storage of Class I liquids shall be listed and labeled as protected above-ground tanks and be in accordance with Chapter 34. Such tanks shall be located in accordance with Table 2206.2.3.
2. Above-ground tanks used for outside, above-grade storage of Class II or IIIA liquids
3. Above-ground tanks containing Class I liquids for fueling motor vehicles are prohibited in the fire district.
4. Above-ground tanks containing Class I liquids for fueling motor vehicles are allowed outside the fire district only when located within an industrial [I] zone, as defined in the Seattle Land Use Code.
5.
6. 7. Above-ground tanks used for outside, above-grade storage of Class IIIB liquid motor fuels shall be listed and labeled as protected aboveground tanks or listed and labeled in accordance with UL 142, Standard for Steel Aboveground Tanks. 2206.2.4 Above-ground tanks located in above-grade vaults or below-grade vaults. Above-ground tanks used for storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquid motor fuels are allowed to be installed in vaults located above grade or below grade in accordance with Section 3404.2.8 and shall comply with Sections 2206.2.4.1 and 2206.2.4.2. Tanks in above-grade vaults shall also comply with Table 2206.2.3.
2206.2.4.1 Tank capacity limits. Tanks storing Class I liquids shall be limited to maximum individual capacity of 12,000 gallons (45 420 L) and an aggregate capacity at an individual site of 12,000 gallons (45 420 L). Tanks
storing
2206.2.4.2 Above-ground tanks located in above-grade vaults or below-grade vaults at Section 237. Subsection 2206.2.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2206.2.5 Portable tanks. Where approved by the fire code official, portable tanks are allowed to be temporarily used in conjunction with the dispensing of
Class I, II, Section 238. Subsection 2206.6.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2206.6.2 Piping, valves, fittings and ancillary equipment for above-ground tanks for Class I, II, * * * Section 239. Subsection 2206.7.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2206.7.6 Fuel delivery nozzles. A listed automatic-closingtype hose nozzle valve with or without a latch-open device shall be provided on island-type dispensers used for dispensing Class I, II, Overhead-type dispensing units shall be provided with a listed automaticclosing-type hose nozzle valve without a latch-open device. Exception: A listed automatic-closing-type hose nozzle valve with latch-open device is allowed to be used on overhead-type dispensing units where the design of the system is such that the hose nozzle valve will close automatically in the event the valve is released from a fill opening or upon impact with a driveway.
2206.7.6.1 Special requirements for nozzles. Where dispensing of Class I, II , 1. The hose nozzle valve shall be equipped with an integral latch-open device. 2. When the flow of product is normally controlled by devices or equipment other than the hose nozzle valve, the hose nozzle valve shall not be capable of being opened unless the delivery hose is pressurized. If pressure to the hose is lost, the nozzle shall close automatically. Exception: Vapor recovery nozzles incorporating insertion interlock devices designed to achieve shutoff on disconnect from the vehicle fill pipe. 3. The hose nozzle shall be designed such that the nozzle is retained in the fill pipe during the filling operation. 4. The system shall include listed equipment with a feature that causes or requires the closing of the hose nozzle valve before the product flow can be resumed or before the hose nozzle valve can be replaced in its normal position in the dispenser. Section 240. A new subsection 2207.1.1 is adopted to read as follows: 2207.1.1 Prohibited locations. Motor fuel-dispensing facilities for liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) fuel are prohibited in the fire district. Section 241. A new subsection 2209.1.1 is adopted to read as follows: 2209.1.1 Prohibited locations. Hydrogen motor fuel-dispensing and generation facilities are prohibited in the fire district. Section 242. Subsection 2403.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2403.2 Approval required. Tents and membrane structures having an area in excess of 200 square feet (19 m2) and canopies in excess of 400 square feet (37 m2) shall not be erected, operated or maintained for any purpose without first obtaining a permit and approval from the fire code official.
Exception 1. Tents used exclusively for recreational camping purposes.
2.1. Individual canopies having a maximum size of 700 square feet (65 m2).
2.2. The aggregate area of multiple canopies placed side by side without a fire break clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm), not exceeding 700 square feet (65 m2) total.
2.3. Aminimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to all structures and other tents. Section 243. Subsection 2404.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2404.2 Flame propagation performance treatment. Before a permit is granted, the owner or agent shall file with the fire code official a certificate executed by an approved testing laboratory certifying that the tents; canopies and membrane structures and their appurtenances; sidewalls, drops and tarpaulins; floor coverings, bunting and combustible decorative materials and effects, including sawdust when used on floors or passageways, shall be composed of material approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or ofmaterial meeting the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 or shall be treated with a flame retardant in an approved manner and meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701, and that such flame propagation performance criteria are effective for the period specified by the permit.
Point of Information
The California State Fire Marshal is an approved nationally recognized testing laboratory. Section 244. Subsection 2404.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2404.5 Combustible materials. Hay, straw, shavings or similar combustible materials shall not be located within any tent, canopy or membrane structure containing an assembly occupancy, except the materials necessary for the daily feeding and care of animals. Sawdust and shavings utilized for a public performance or exhibit shall not be prohibited provided the sawdust and shavings are kept damp. Combustible materials shall not be permitted under stands or seats at any time. The areas within and adjacent to the tent or air-supported structure shall be maintained clear of all combustible materials or vegetation that could create a fire hazard within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the structure. Combustible trash shall be removed at least once a day from the structure during the period the structure is occupied by the public. Exception: Items approved by NFPA 701 or a nationally recognized testing laboratory as meeting flame propagation performance criteria established by NFPA 701 and receiving approval from the fire code official. Section 245. Subsection 2505.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2505.4 Distance from lot lines and buildings. Tire storage piles shall be located at least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from lot lines and buildings. Exception: When stored on a single rack having dimensions not exceeding 68 inches by 48 inches by 76 inches (1727 mm by 1219 mm by 1930 mm) for commercial display, the distance to property lines that can be built upon may be reduced to 10 feet (3048 mm) and no separation is required from buildings on the same property. Section 246. Subsection 2601.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2601.1 Scope. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with this chapter. Exception: Hot work on board marine vessels at dock or under construction or repair shall be in accordance with Administrative Rules 26.01.07, Cutting, Welding and Other Hot Work on Marine Vessels and 26.02.07, Designated Hot Work Facilities and Shipyards. Section 247. Subsection 2601.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2601.5 Design and installation of oxygen-fuel gas systems. The design and installation of Section 248. Subsection 2602.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. HOT WORK. Operations including cutting, welding, Thermit welding, brazing, soldering, grinding, thermal spraying, thawing pipe, installation of torchapplied roof systems, glass-blowing, weed burning, or any other similar spark, arc or flame-producing activity. * * *
PF DEVICE. A wet or dry device (or assembly of devices) in a fuel gas line designed to perform the following three functions:
(a)Prevent backflow of oxygen into the fuel gas supply system;
(b)Prevent the passage of flame into the fuel gas supply system (flashback);
(c)Prevent the development of a fuel gas-oxygen mixture at sufficient pressure so that its ignition would achieve combustion pressures that could cause failure to perform functions (a) and (b). This device is given a diagram symbol, PF. A wet PF device
is commonly known as a hydraulic seal, hydraulic valve or hydraulic back-pressure valve. * * * Section 249. Subsection 2604.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2604.2 Fire watch. Fire watches shall be established and conducted in accordance with Sections 2604.2.1 through 2604.2.6. 2604.2.1 When required. A fire watch shall be provided during hot work activities and shall continue for a minimum of 30 minutes after the conclusion of the work. The fire code official, or the responsible manager under a hot work program, is authorized to extend the fire watch based on the hazards or work being performed. Exception: Where the hot work area has no fire hazards or combustible exposures. 2604.2.2 Location. The fire watch shall include the entire hot work area and be positioned so that the extinguishment of a spot fire is not delayed. Hot work conducted in areas with vertical or horizontal fire exposures that are not observable by a single individual shall have additional personnel assigned to fire watches to ensure that exposed areas are monitored.
2604.2.3 Duties. Individuals designated to fire watch duty shall have no other duties except to watch for fire,
2604.2.4 Fire extinguishing equipment and training. The individuals responsible for performing the hot work and individuals responsible for providing the fire watch shall 2604.2.5 Fire hoses. Where hose lines are required, they shall be connected, charged and ready for operation.
2604.2.6 Fire extinguisher. A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 and with a minimum 2-A: Section 250. Section 2605 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 2605
GAS 2605.1 General. Devices or attachments mixing air or oxygen with combustible gases prior to consumption, except at the burner or in a standard torch or blow pipe, shall not be allowed unless approved. 2605.2 Cylinder and container storage, handling and use. Storage, handling and use of compressed gas cylinders, containers and tanks shall be in accordance with this section and Chapter 30. 2605.3 Precautions. Cylinders, valves, regulators, hose and other apparatus and fittings for oxygen shall be kept free from oil or grease. Oxygen cylinders, apparatus and fittings shall not be handled with oily hands, oily gloves, or greasy tools or equipment.
2605.4 Fuel gases and liquid oxygen.
2605.4.1 2605.4.1.1 Prohibitions. Acetylene gas shall not be:
1.
2. 2605.4.1.2 Unalloyed copper. Acetylene gas shall not be brought in contact with unalloyed copper, except in a blowpipe or torch.
2605.4.1.3 Maximum acetylene and other nonliquefied flammable gas quantities inside buildings. The maximum quantity of acetylene and other nonliquefied flammable gas used and stored inside buildings in conjunction with hot work operations shall
be in accordance with this section.
2605.4.1.3.1 Group A, B, E, I, M and R occupancies. Acetylene gas and other nonliquefied flammable gas shall not be stored or used in Group A, B, E, I, M or R occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. Individual cylinders not exceeding 150 cubic feet (4 m3) each at normal temperature and pressure (NTP). Aggregate quantity of flammable gas shall not exceed 1,000 cubic feet (28 m3) in unsprinklered buildings and 2,000 cubic feet (57m3) in
sprinklered buildings.
2. Buildings under construction or demolition where individual acetylene gas and other nonliquefied flammable gas cylinders do not exceed 300 cubic feet (8 m3) each at normal temperature and pressure and the aggregate storage quantity inside the
building does not exceed 1,000 cubic feet (28 m3).
2605.4.1.3.2 Group F and S occupancies. Acetylene and other nonliquefied flammable gas shall not be stored or used in Group F and S occupancies in excess of the maximum allowable quantities set forth in Table 2703.1.1 (1).
2605.4.1.3.3 Mixed use occupancies. Individual fuel gas cylinders within F or S occupancies in buildings having any other use shall be limited to 250 cubic feet (7m3) at normal temperature and pressure and shall be limited to a total aggregate gas
capacity of 1,000 cubic feet (70.8 m3) at normal temperature and pressure of acetylene or other nonliquefied flammable gas.
2605.4.2 Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and methylacetylenepropadiene (MAPP gas).
2605.4.2.1 Maximum LP-gas and MAPP gas quantities inside buildings. The maximum quantity of LP-gas and MAPP gas used and stored inside buildings in conjunction with hot work operations shall be in accordance with this section.
Point of Information
1 pound (.45 kg) LP-gas capacity is equivalent to 2.2 pounds water capacity.
1 gallon (3.8 L) of LP-gas at 60 degrees F (16 degrees C) weighs 4.22 pounds (2 kg).
1 gallon (3.8 L) of water weighs 8.33 pounds (4 kg).
2605.4.2.1.1 Group A, B, E, I, M and R occupancies. LP-gas and MAPP shall not be stored or used in Group A, B, E, I, M or R occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A single LP-gas or a single MAPP gas cylinder not exceeding 50-pounds water capacity (nominal 20 pounds LP-gas) in Group E and M occupancies.
2. Individual LP-gas or MAPP gas cylinders not exceeding 12-pounds water capacity (nominal 5 pounds LP-gas) in Group I occupancies.
3. Unoccupied buildings under construction or demolition where individual LP-gas or MAPP gas cylinders do not exceed 240-pounds water capacity (nominal 100 pounds LP-gas) and the aggregate quantity inside the building does not exceed an aggregate water
capacity of 735 pounds (nominal 300 pounds LP-gas) on the site.
4. Occupied buildings under construction or demolition
2605.4.2.1.2 Group F and S occupancies. LP-gas and MAPP gas shall not be stored or used in excess of 735 pounds aggregate water capacity (nominal 300 pounds LPgas) in Group F and S occupancies.
2605.4.2.1.3 Mixed use occupancies. LP-gas and MAPP gas storage and use inside Group F and S occupancies within buildings having any other use shall be limited to cylinders having an individual water capacity not exceeding 50 pounds (nominal 20 pounds
LP-gas) and a total aggregate water capacity not to exceed 144 pounds (nominal 60 pounds LP-gas).
2605.4.3 Liquid oxygen (LOX). Liquid oxygen shall not be stored or used in an unsprinklered building in an aggregate quantity exceeding 45 gallons (170 L) per control area or an aggregate quantity of 90 gallons (340 L) per control area in a sprinklered
building.
2605.4.4 Separation of cylinders in storage. Fuel gas cylinders shall be separated from compressed oxygen cylinders and liquid oxygen containers by a minimum of 20 feet (6.1 m) or by a barrier of noncombustible construction at least 5 feet (1524 mm)
high having a fire-resistive rating of at least 1/2 hour. The barrier shall interrupt all lines of sight between oxygen and fuel gas cylinders within 20 feet (6096 mm) of each other. 2605.5 Remote locations. Oxygen and fuel-gas cylinders and acetylene generators shall be located away from the hot work area to prevent such cylinders or generators from being heated by radiation from heated materials, sparks or slag, or misdirection of the torch flame.
2605.6 Cylinders shutoff. The torch valve shall be closed and the gas supply to the torch completely shut off when gas * * * Section 251. A new subsection 2609.8 is adopted to read as follows: 2609.8 PF devices. PF devices shall be designed and installed in fuel gas lines in accordance with NFPA 51. Section 252. Subsection 2701.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2701.1 Scope. Prevention, control and mitigation of dangerous conditions related to storage, dispensing, use and handling of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with this chapter. This chapter shall apply to all hazardous materials, including those materials regulated elsewhere in this code, except that when specific requirements are provided in other chapters, those specific requirements shall apply in accordance with the applicable chapter. Where a material has multiple hazards, all hazards shall be addressed. Exceptions: 1. The quantities of alcoholic beverages, medicines, foodstuffs, cosmetics and consumer or industrial products containing not more than 50 percent by volume of water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, in retail or wholesale sales occupancies, are unlimited when packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons (5 L). 2. Application and release of pesticide and agricultural products and materials intended for use in weed abatement, erosion control, soil amendment or similar applications when applied in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions and label directions. 3. The off-site transportation of hazardous materials when in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOTn) regulations. 4. Building materials not otherwise regulated by this code. 5. Refrigeration systems (see Section 606). 6. Stationary storage battery systems regulated by Section 608. 7. The display, storage, sale or use of fireworks and explosives in accordance with Chapter 33. 8. Corrosives utilized in personal and household products in the manufacturers' original consumer packaging in Group M occupancies. 9. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden barrels and casks. 10. The use of wall-mounted dispensers containing alcohol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or II liquids when in accordance with Section 3405.5. 11. Hazardous materials handled at marine terminals in accordance with Section 2701.1.2.
2701.1.1 Waiver. The provisions of this chapter are waived when the fire code official determines that such enforcement is preempted by other codes, statutes or ordinances. The details of any action granting such a waiver shall be recorded and entered
in the files of the
Point of Information
Permits and inspections for underground storage tank installations are deferred to the Washington State Department of Ecology. Underground tanks used for the storage of liquid hazardous materials shall be located, installed and protected in accordance
with this code and applicable state and federal regulations. 2701.1.2 Hazardous materials at marine terminals. Hazardous materials that are handled and temporarily located at marine terminals and are incidental to transportation shall be in accordance with SFD Administrative Rule 27.01.07, Marine Terminals. Section 253. Subsection 2701.5.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2701.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall include an HMIS, such as SARA (Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986) Title III, Tier II Report, or other approved statement. The HMIS shall include the following information: 1. Manufacturer's name. 2. Chemical name, trade names, hazardous ingredients. 3. Hazard classification. 4. MSDS or equivalent. 5. United Nations (UN), North America (NA) or the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) identification number. 6. Maximum quantity stored or used on-site at one time. 7. Storage conditions related to the storage type, temperature and pressure.
Point of Information
Prior to developing a HMIS, please contact the Special Hazards Unit of the Fire Prevention Division for specific guidelines, format and assistance. Section 254. Subsection 2701.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2701.6 Facility closure. Facilities shall be placed out of service in accordance with Sections 2701.6.1 through 2701.6.3. 2701.6.1 Temporarily out-of-service facilities. Facilities that are temporarily out of service shall continue to maintain a permit and be monitored and inspected. Facilities for which a closure plan is required in accordance with Section 2701.5 shall notify the fire code official when the facility out-ofservice period exceeds 15 days. * * * Section 255. Table 2703.1.1(1) of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L. a. For use of control areas, see Section 2703.8.3. b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage. c. The quantities of alcoholic beverages in retail and wholesale sales occupancies shall not be limited providing the liquids are packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuffs, consumer or industrial products, and cosmetics containing not more than 50 percent by volume of watermiscible liquids with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons. d. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent when stored in approved storage cabinets, day boxes, gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or safety cans. Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. f. Quantities shall not be limited in a building equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. g. Allowed only in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system. h. Containing not more than the maximum allowable quantity per control area of Class IA, Class IB or Class IC flammable liquids.
i. j. Quantities in parenthesis indicate quantity units in parenthesis at the head of each column. k. A maximum quantity of 200 pounds of solid or 20 gallons of liquid Class 3 oxidizers is allowed when such materials are necessary for maintenance purposes, operation or sanitation of equipment when the storage containers and the manner of storage are approved. l. Net weight of pyrotechnic composition of the fireworks. Where the net weight of the pyrotechnic composition of the fireworks is not known, 25 percent of the gross weight of the fireworks including packaging shall be used. m. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 2703.1.2. n. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 2703.11, see Table 2703.11.1. o. Densely-packed baled cotton that complies with the packing requirements of ISO 8115 shall not be included in this material class. p. The following shall not be included in determining the maximum allowable quantities: 1. Liquid or gaseous fuel in fuel tanks on vehicles. 2. Liquid or gaseous fuel in fuel tanks on motorized equipment operated in accordance with this code. 3. Gaseous fuels in piping systems and fixed appliances regulated by the International Fuel Gas Code. 4. Liquid fuels in piping systems and fixed appliances, regulated by the International Mechanical Code. q. The closed use maximum allowable quantity is allowed to be exceeded in a single control area when combustible liquids are contained within a protected aboveground tank system installed in accordance with SFD Administrative Rule 34.01.07 Use Of Protected Aboveground Tanks For Fuel Storage Inside Buildings. Section 256. Subsection 2703.2.2.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2703.2.2.2 Additional regulations for supply piping for health-hazard materials. Supply piping and tubing for gases and liquids having a health-hazard ranking of3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA704 shall be in accordance with ASME B31.3 , the Seattle Mechanical Code and the following: 1. Piping and tubing utilized for the transmission of highly toxic, toxic or highly volatile corrosive liquids and gases shall have welded, threaded or flanged connections throughout except for connections located within a ventilated enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or containment is provided for connections if the material is a liquid. 2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corridors, within any portion of a means of egress required to be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction or in concealed spaces in areas not classified as Group H occupancies. Exception: Piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed spaces above other occupancies when installed in accordance with Section 415.8.6.3 of the International Building Code for Group H-5 occupancies. Section 257. Subsection 2703.2.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2703.2.4 Installation of tanks. Installation of tanks shall be in accordance with Sections 2703.2.4.1 through 2703.2.4.2.1. 2703.2.4.1 Underground tanks. 2703.2.4.1.1 General. Underground tanks used for the storage of liquid hazardous materials shall be located, installed and protected in accordance with this code and applicable state and federal regulations.
Point of Information
Permits and inspections relating to underground storage tank installations are deferred to the Washington State Department of Ecology. 2703.2.4.1.2 Secondary containment for underground tanks. Underground tanks used for the storage of liquid hazardous materials shall be provided with secondary containment. In lieu of providing secondary containment for an underground tank, an above-ground tank in an underground vault complying with Section 3404.2.8 shall be permitted. * * * Section 258. Subsection 2703.2.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2703.2.6 Maintenance. In addition to the requirements of Section 2703.2.3, equipment, machinery and required detection and alarm systems associated with hazardous materials shall be maintained as specified by the manufacturer and in an operable condition. Defective containers, cylinders and tanks shall be removed from service, repaired or disposed of in an approved manner. Defective equipment or machinery shall be removed from service and repaired or replaced. Required detection and alarm systems shall be replaced or repaired where defective. * * * Section 259. Subsection 2703.3.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2703.3.1 Unauthorized discharges. The fire code official shall be immediately notified and the requirements set forth in Sections 2703.3.1.1 through 2703.3.1.4 shall be complied with * * * Section 260. Subsection 2704.13 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2704.13 Weather protection. Where overhead noncombustible construction is provided for sheltering outdoor hazardous material storage areas, such storage shall not be considered indoor storage when the area is constructed in accordance with the requirements for weather protection as required by Section 414.6 of the International Building Code. Exception: Storage of explosive materials shall be considered as indoor storage.
Point of Information
When this code allows for the reduction of the set back distance required from outdoor storage areas to adjacent buildings by the construction of a fireresistive wall in specific chapters elsewhere in this code, that reduction allowance is not
considered to meet the intent of the requirement for distance in Item 2 of Section 414.6 in the Seattle Building Code. The fire-resistive wall and the reduction in distance combined with a weather protection canopy are considered to be indoor
storage. Section 261. Subsection 2705.3.9 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2705.3.9 Weather protection. Where overhead noncombustible construction is provided for sheltering outdoor hazardous material use areas, such use shall not be considered indoor use when the area is constructed in accordance with the requirements for weather protection as required in Section 414.6 of the International Building Code. Exception: Use of explosive materials shall be considered as indoor use.
Point of Information
When this code allows for the reduction of the set back distance required from outdoor storage areas to adjacent buildings by the construction of a fireresistive wall in specific chapters elsewhere in this code, that reduction allowance is not
considered to meet the intent of the requirement for distance in Item 2 of Section 414.6 in the Seattle Building Code. The fire-resistive wall and the reduction in distance combined with a weather protection canopy are considered to be indoor
storage. Section 262. Subsection 2801.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter, the International Building Code and where specifically indicated, NFPA 30B shall apply to the manufacturing, storage and display of aerosol products. Manufacturing of aerosol products using hazardous materials shall also comply with Chapter 27. Section 263. Subsection 2802.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 2802.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. * * *
AEROSOL CONTAINER. A metal can, or a glass or plastic bottle designed to dispense an aerosol. * * * Section 264. Subsection 2803.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2803.1 Classification levels. Aerosol products shall be classified as Level 1, 2 or 3 in accordance with Table 2803.1 Section 265. Subsection 2804.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
2804.1 General. The inside storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products shall comply with Sections 2804.2 through 2804.7 2804.1.1 Aerosol container size limits. Metal cans shall be limited to a maximum size of 33.8 fluid ounces (1000 ml).Glass or plastic bottles shall be limited to a maximum container size of 4 fluid ounces (118 ml). Section 266. Subsection 3001.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3001.1 Scope. Storage, use and handling of compressed gases in compressed gas containers, cylinders, tanks and systems shall comply with this chapter, including those gases regulated elsewhere in this code. Exceptions: 1. Gases used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems (see Section 606). 2. Compressed natural gas (CNG) for use as a vehicular fuel shall comply with Chapter 22, NFPA 52 and the International Fuel Gas Code. Partially full compressed gas containers, cylinders or tanks containing residual gases shall be considered as full for the purposes of the controls required.
Cryogenic fluids shall also comply with Chapter 32. Liquefied natural gas for use as a vehicular fuel shall also comply with NFPA 57 and NFPA 59A. Compressed gases classified as hazardous materials shall also comply with Chapter 27 for general requirements and chapters addressing specific hazards, including Chapters 35 (Flammable Gases), 37 (Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials), 40 (Oxidizers) and 41 (Pyrophoric). LP-gas shall also comply with Chapter 38 and the International Fuel Gas Code. Section 267. Subsection 3006.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3006.2 Interior supply location. Medical gases shall be stored in areas dedicated to the storage of such gases without other storage or uses. Where containers of medical gases in quantities greater than the permit amount are located inside buildings, they shall be in a 1-hour exterior room, a 1-hour interior room or a gas cabinet in accordance with Section 3006.2.1, 3006.2.2 or 3006.2.3. Rooms or areas where hazardous medical gases are stored or used in quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Section 2703.1 shall be in accordance with the International Building Code for High Hazard Group H Occupancies. Section 268. Subsection 3006.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is hereby repealed. Section 269. Subsection 3201.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3201.1 Scope. Storage, use and handling of cryogenic fluids shall comply with this chapter. Cryogenic fluids classified as hazardous materials shall also comply with Chapter 27 for general requirements. Exceptions: 1. Fluids used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems (see Section 606). 2. Liquefied natural gas (LNG), which shall comply with NFPA 59A, Standard for Gaseous Hydrogen Systems at Consumer Sites.
Partially full containers containing residual cryogenic fluids shall be considered as full for the purposes of the controls required.
Flammable cryogenic fluids, including hydrogen, methane and carbon monoxide, shall comply with NFPA 55, Standard for the Storage, Use, and Handling of Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids in Portable and Stationary Containers, Cylinders, and Tanks. Inert cryogenic fluids, including argon, helium and nitrogen, shall comply with CGA P-18. Section 270. Subsection 3301.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of explosives, explosive materials, fireworks and small arms ammunition. The manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of fireworks shall be governed by Chapter 70.77 RCW and by Chapter 21212 WAC. Exceptions: 1. The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National Guard. 2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopoeia. 3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition when packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging requirements. 4. The possession, storage, and use of not more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and 10,000 small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption.
Point of Information
The term "for personal consumption" means for use by private individuals and not for resale. 5. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities. 6. Special industrial explosive devices which in the aggregate contain less than 50 pounds (23 kg) of explosive materials. 7. The possession, storage and use of blank industrialpower load cartridges when packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging regulations. 8. Transportation in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100-178. 9. Items preempted by federal regulations. 10. Explosive material, fireworks, pyrotechnic special effect material and small arms ammunition located at permitted marine terminals in accordance with Administrative Rule 27.01.07 Marine Terminals. 3301.1.1 Explosive material standard. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, NFPA 495 shall govern the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use of explosive materials. See also Chapter 70.74 RCW and Chapter 296-52 WAC.
3301.1.2 Exceptions: 1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section 3304.
3
3301.1.3
Manufacturing and firing of model rockets is prohibited.
Display of model rocket motors shall be in accordance with Section 3306.5.
3301.1.4 Exception: Storage of ammonium nitrate in magazines with blasting agents shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 495. Section 271. Subsection 3301.2.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3301.2.4 Financial responsibility. Before a permit is issued, as required by Section 3301.2. 3301.2.4.1 Blasting. Before approval to do blasting is issued, the applicant for approval shall file a bond or submit a certificate of insurance in such form, amount and coverage as determined by the legal department of the jurisdiction to be adequate in each case to indemnify the jurisdiction against any and all damages arising from permitted blasting.
Section 272. Subsection 3301.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3301.3 Prohibited explosives and activities. 3301.3.1 Prohibited explosives. Permits shall not be issued or renewed for possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale or use of the following materials and such materials currently in storage or use shall be disposed of in an approved manner. 1. Liquid nitroglycerin. 2. Dynamite containing more than 60-percent liquid explosive ingredient. 3. Dynamite having an unsatisfactory absorbent or one that permits leakage of a liquid explosive ingredient under any conditions liable to exist during storage. 4. Nitrocellulose in a dry and uncompressed condition in a quantity greater than 10 pounds (4.54 kg) of net weight in one package. 5. Fulminate of mercury in a dry condition and fulminate of all other metals in any condition except as a component of manufactured articles not hereinafter forbidden. 6. Explosive compositions that ignite spontaneously or undergo marked decomposition, rendering the products of their use more hazardous, when subjected for 48 consecutive hours or less to a temperature of 167 degrees F (75 degrees C). 7. New explosive materials until approved by DOTn, except that permits are allowed to be issued to educational, governmental or industrial laboratories for instructional or research purposes. 8. Explosive materials condemned by DOTn. 9. Explosive materials containing an ammonium salt and a chlorate. 10. Explosives not packed or marked as required by DOTn 49 CFR, Parts 100-178. Exception: Gelatin dynamite.
3301.3.2 Prohibited activities. The following activities are prohibited:
1. The manufacture, assembly and testing of explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks.
Exceptions:
1. The hand loading of small arms ammunition prepared for personal use and not offered for sale.
2. The mixing and loading of blasting agents at blasting sites in accordance with NFPA 495.
3. The use of binary explosives or plosphoric materials in blasting or pyrotechnic special effects applications in accordance with NFPA 495 or 1126.
2. The storage of explosive materials for more than 24 hours unless under permit from the Seattle Fire Department.
3. The construction of Class 1 magazines. Section 273. Subsection 3305.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code isamended as follows:
3305.1 General. The manufacture, assembly and testing of explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks Exceptions: 1. The hand loading of small arms ammunition prepared for personal use and not offered for resale. 2. The mixing and loading of blasting agents at blasting sites in accordance with NFPA 495. 3. The use of binary explosives or plosophoric materials in blasting or pyrotechnic special effects applications in accordance with NFPA 495 or NFPA 1126. Section 274. Subsection 3305.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3305.3 Intraplant separation of operating buildings. Explosives manufacturing buildings and fireworks manufacturing buildings, including those where explosive charges are assembled, manufactured, prepared or loaded utilizing Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 or 1.5 explosives, shall be separated from all other buildings, including magazines, within the confines of the manufacturing plant, at a distance not less than those shown in Table 3305.3 or 3304.5.2(3), as appropriate.
The quantity of explosives in an operating building shall be the net weight of all explosives contained therein. Distances shall be based on the hazard division requiring the greatest separation, unless the aggregate explosive weight is divided by approved walls or shields designed for that purpose. When dividing a quantity of explosives into smaller stacks, a suitable barrier or adequate separation distance shall be provided to prevent propagation from one stack to another. When distance is used as the sole means of separation within a building, such distance shall be established by testing. Testing shall demonstrate that propagation between stacks will not result. Barriers provided to protect against explosive effects shall be designed and installed in accordance with approved standards. Section 275. Subsection 3305.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3305.4 Separation of manufacturing operating buildings from inhabited buildings, public traffic routes and magazines. When an operating building on an explosive materials plant site is designed to contain explosive materials, such a building shall be located away from inhabited buildings, public traffic routes and magazines in accordance with Table 3304.5.2(2) or 3304.5.2(3) as appropriate, based on the maximum quantity of explosive materials permitted to be in the building at one time (see Section 3301.8).
* * * Section 276. Subsection 3305.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3305.5 Buildings and equipment. Buildings or rooms that exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area of explosive materials shall be operated in accordance with this section and constructed in accordance with the requirements of the International Building Code for Group H occupancies.
accordance with NFPA 1124. * * * Section 277. The title of Section 3306 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 3306 SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION, MODEL ROCKET MOTORS AND MARINE FLARES Section 278. Subsection 3306.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3306.1 General. Indoor storage and display of black powder, smokeless propellants and small arms ammunition shall comply with this section and NFPA 495. Indoor display of model rocket motors and marine flares shall comply with this section. Section 279. Subsection 3306.5.1.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3306.5.1.2 Black powder. No Section 280. A new subsection 3306.5.1.4 is adopted to read as follows: 3306.5.1.4 Model rocket motors. Model rocket motors on display in Group M Occupancies shall not exceed an individual motor weight of 1 pound (.45 kg). The maximum aggregate motor weight on display shall not exceed 20 pounds (9.1 kg). Model rocket motors shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from exits. Section 281. A new subsection 3306.5.1.5 is adopted to read as follows: 3306.5.1.5 Marine flares. U.S. Coast Guard approved marine flares on display in Group M Occupancies shall not exceed an individual device weight of 2 pounds (.90 kg). The maximum aggregate device weight on display shall not exceed 40 pounds (18.2 kg). Marine flares shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from exits. POINT OF INFORMATION Device weight of U.S. Coast Guard approved marine flares shall mean the gross weight of the smokeless propellant, other chemical components and the primary casing of the flare. The device weight is not to include carrying cases, manufacturer's packaging, detachable handles or unattached activating devices that may also be present and sold with the flare as a unit. Section 282. Subsection 3306.5.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3306.5.2 Storage. Storage of small arms ammunition shall comply with Sections 3306.5.2.1 through 3306.5.2.3. 3306.5.2.1 Smokeless propellant. Commercial stocks of smokeless propellants shall be stored as follows: 1. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but no exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in portable wooden boxes having walls of at least 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness.
2. Quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg), but not exceeding
3. Storage of quantities exceeding 3.1. The warehouse or storage room is unaccessible to unauthorized personnel. 3.2. Smokeless propellant shall be stored in nonportable storage cabinets having wood walls at least 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness and having shelves with no more than 3 feet (914 mm) of separation between shelves.
3.3. No more than 3.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls of the storage room or warehouse with at least 40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets. 3.5. The minimum required separation between cabinets shall be 20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twice the height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway between each cabinet. The barricades must extend a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) outward, be firmly attached to the wall, and be constructed of steel not less than 0.25 inch thick (6.4 mm), 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood, brick, or concrete block. 3.6. Smokeless propellant shall be separated from materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable liquids, flammable solids, or oxidizing materials by a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition having a fireresistance rating of 1 hour. 3.7. The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 4. Smokeless propellants not stored according to Item 1, 2, or 3 above shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4 magazine in accordance with Section 3304 and NFPA 495.
3306.5.2.2 Black powder. Commercial stocks of black powder in quantities less than 5 3306.5.2.3 Small arms primers. Commercial stocks of small arms primers shall be stored as follows:
mm) nominal thickness.
1. Quantities not to exceed 20,000 small arms primers stored in a building
shall be arranged such that not more than 20,000 small arms primers are stored in any one pile and piles are at least 15 feet (4572 mm) apart.
2. Quantities exceeding 2.1. The warehouse or storage building shall not be accessible to unauthorized personnel.
2.2. Small arms primers shall be stored in cabinets. No more than 2.3. Shelves in cabinets shall have vertical separation of at least 2 feet (610 mm). 2.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls of the warehouse or storage room with at least 40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets. The minimum required separation between cabinets shall be allowed to be reduced to 20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twice the height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway between each cabinet. The barricades shall be firmly attached to the wall and shall be constructed of steel not less than 1/4 inch thick (6.4 mm), 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood, brick or concrete block. 2.5. Small arms primers shall be separated from materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable liquids, flammable solids or oxidizing materials by a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour. 2.6. The building shall be protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 3. Small arms primers not stored in accordance with Item 1 or 2 of this section shall be stored in a magazine meeting the requirements of Section 3304 and NFPA 495. Section 283. Subsection 3308.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3308.1 General. The sale, possession, use or discharge of fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects in the City of Seattle is prohibited except where authorized by a fire department permit or exempted under this section.
Exceptions:
1. The use of fireworks by railroads or other transportation agencies for signaling or illumination.
2. The sale or use of blank cartridges or fireworks when approved by the fire code official for theatrics, signaling or ceremonial purposes.
3. The use of fireworks by the United States Armed Forces. The display of fireworks, including proximate audience displays and pyrotechnic special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical and group entertainment productions, shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 1123 or NFPA 1126. Section 284. Subsection 3808.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3308.2 Permit application.
An application for a permit shall be made in writing to the fire code official at least 30 days in advance. At the time of permit application, the fire code official shall be consulted regarding requirements for standby fireapparatus. Section 285. Subsection 3808.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3308.4 Clearance. Spectators, spectator parking areas, and dwellings, buildings or structures shall not be located within the display site.
Exception
The site for outdoor water or land display shall have at least a 100 foot per inch (30 480 mm) radius of internal mortar diameter of the largest aerial shell to be fired.
The designated landing areas shall be an approved large, clear, open area. Spectators, vehicles and combustible materials shall not be allowed within the designated landing area. The designated landing area shall not be within 100 ft (30480mm) of
tents, canopies and membrane structures.
The firing and storage site shall be located not less than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from an building, tent, canopy or membrane structure.
When the display is fired from a barge, such barge shall be of noncombustible construction or have a noncombustible surface.
When the display is fired from a barge or vessel, a security area shall be established around the barge to prevent boats from entering the area. No boats shall be allowed within 200 feet (60 960mm) of the firing or storage site. A boat shall be on
standby to remove personnel from the barge or water in an emergency. All personnel aboard the barge shall have approved flotation devices. Additional water-filled fire extinguishers, rated 2-A minimum, shall be on the barge and so spaced that an
extinguisher shall be available within 30 feet (9144 mm) at all times. Section 286. Subsection 3308.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3308.8 Display supervision. Whenever in the opinion of the fire code official or the operator a hazardous condition exists, the fireworks display shall be discontinued immediately until such time as the dangerous situation is corrected.
3308.8.1 Pyrotechnic operator. Fireworks display operations shall be under the direct supervision of a State of Washington pyrotechnics licensed operator. The pyrotechnic operator shall ensure that only fireworks listed in the permit are used
and shall be responsible for all aspects of the display related to pyrotechnics.
Display operators and assistants shall be 18 years of age or older. The operator shall ensure that no person under the age of 18 is allowed within 200 feet (60 960 mm) of the fire and storage site.
3308.8.2 Monitors. The pyrotechnic operator shall employ monitors whose sole duty shall be the enforcement of crowd control around the display area and ensure that no unauthorized persons are allowed within 200 feet (60 960 mm) of the firing and storage
site. This requirement shall be in effect from 1/2 hour prior to the arrival of the fireworks until all fireworks, debris, equipment and fireworks have been removed from the site. Unauthorized persons shall not be allowed to enter the discharge site
until the site has been inspected after the display by the pyrotechnics operator. Section 287. Subsection 3308.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3308.11 Retail display and sale prohibited. Retail display and sale of fireworks is prohibited in the City of Seattle. Section 288. Subsection 3401.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3401.1 Scope and application. Prevention, control and mitigation of dangerous conditions related to storage, use, dispensing, mixing and handling of flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 27 and this chapter. Storage and use of fuel oil tanks and containers connected to oilburning equipment shall be in accordance with Section 603. For abandonment of fuel oil tanks, this chapter applies. Section 289. Subsection 3401.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3401.2 Nonapplicability. This chapter shall not apply to liquids as otherwise provided in other laws or regulations or chapters of this code, including: 1. Specific provisions for flammable liquids in motor fuel-dispensing facilities, repair garages, airports and marinas in Chapter 22. 2. Medicines, foodstuffs, cosmetics, and commercial, institutional and industrial products in the same concentration and packaging containing not more than 50 percent by volume of water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solution not being flammable, and alcoholic beverages in retail or wholesale sales or storage uses when packaged in individual containers not exceeding 1.3 gallons (5 L).
Point of Information
Permits and inspections for underground storage tank installations are deferred to the Washington State Department of Ecology. Underground tanks used for the storage of liquid hazardous materials shall be located, installed and protected in accordance
with this code and applicable state and federal regulations. Section 290. Subsection 3402.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3402.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein. * * *
REFINERY. A plant in which flammable or combustible liquids are produced on a commercial scale from crude petroleum, natural gas * * * VAULT. An enclosure consisting of four walls, a floor, and a top for the purpose of containing a liquid storage tank and not intended to be occupied by personnel other than for inspection, repair, or maintenance of the vault, the storage tank, or related equipment. [NFPA 30: 3.3.47] Section 291. Subsection 3404.2.3.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3404.2.3.2 Label or placard. Tanks more than 100 gallons (379 L) in capacity, which are permanently installed or mounted and used for the storage of Class I, II, Exceptions: 1. Tanks of 300-gallon (1136 L) capacity or less located on private property and used for heating and cooking fuels in single-family dwellings. 2. Tanks located underground. Section 292. Subsection 3404.2.7.3.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.3.3 Vent pipe outlets. Vent pipe outlets for tanks storing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located such that the vapors are released at a safe point outside of buildings and not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the adjacent ground level. Vapors shall be discharged upward or horizontally away from adjacent walls to assist in vapor dispersion. Vent outlets shall be located such that flammable vapors will not be trapped by eaves or other obstructions and shall be at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings or lot lines of properties that can be built upon. Vent outlets on atmospheric tanks storing Class IIIB liquids are allowed to discharge inside a building if the vent is a normally closed vent. Exception: Vent pipe outlets on Class III-B liquid tanks inside buildings connected to generators shall be located such that the vapors are released to a safe location outside buildings. Section 293. Subsection 3404.2.7.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.4 Emergency venting.
3404.2.7.4.1 General. Stationary, above-ground tanks shall be equipped with additional venting that will relieve excessive internal pressure caused by exposure to fires. Emergency venting devices shall be listed and
approved. Exception: Tanks larger than 12,000 gallons (45 420 L) in capacity storing Class IIIB liquids which are not within the diked area or the drainage path of Class I or II liquids do not require emergency relief venting.
3404.2.7.4.2 Emergency vent pipe outlets. Emergency vents for Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall not discharge inside buildings, and outlets shall be in accordance with Section 3404.2.7.3.3.
Exception: Protected above-ground tanks located inside buildings containing Class II or Class IIIA liquids for emergency or standby generators in stalled in accordance with Administrative Rule 34.01.07, Use of Protected Aboveground Tanks for Fuel
Storage Inside Buildings, are allowed to vent inside buildings.
3404.2.7.4.3 Extension of emergency vent piping. Piping to or from approved emergency vent devices for atmospheric and low-pressure tanks shall be sized to provide emergency vent flows that limit the back pressure to less than the maximum pressure
permitted by the design of the tank. Piping to or from approved emergency vent devices for pressure vessels shall be sized in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. Section 294. Subsection 3404.2.7.5.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.5.2 Filling, emptying and vapor recovery connections. Filling, emptying and vapor recovery connections to tanks containing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located outside of buildings at a location free from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from building openings or lot lines of property that can be built on. Such openings shall be provided with a liquid-tight cap which shall be closed when not in use and properly identified.
Filling and emptying connections to generator tanks containing Class III-B liquids shall be located at a safe location outside of buildings. Such openings shall be provided with a liquid-tight cap which shall be closed when not in use. A sign in
accordance with Section 2703.6 that displays the following warning shall be permanently attached at the filling location:
DELIVERING OTHER THAN CLASS III-B COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS TO THIS FILL LOCATION IS A VIOLATION OF THE SEATTLE FIRE CODE AND STRICTLY PROHIBITED Section 295. Subsection 3404.2.7.5.6 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.5.6 Location of connections that are made or broken. Filling, withdrawal and vapor-recovery connections for Class I, II and IIIA liquids which are made and broken shall be located outside of buildings at a location away from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from building openings. Such connections shall be closed and liquid tight when not in use and shall be properly identified. Exception: Fill connections for diesel fuel tanks attached to emergency generators may be located within dedicated loading docks of buildings when installed within 10 ft. (3048 mm) of the exterior opening of the loading dock, provided the loading dock entrance doors have openings comprising at least 50% of the door area. Section 296. Subsection 3404.2.7.5.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.5.8 Overfill prevention. An approved means or method in accordance with Section 3404.2.9.6.6 shall be provided to prevent the overfill of all Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage tanks in refineries, bulk plants or terminals regulated by Sections 3406.4 or 3406.7 shall have overfill protection in accordance with API 2350. Exception: Outside above-ground tanks with a capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L) or less. An approved means or method in accordance with Section 3404.2.9.6.6 shall be provided to prevent the overfilling of Class III-B liquid storage tanks inside buildings connected to generators. Section 297. Subsection 3404.2.7.10.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.10.1 Leaking tank disposition. Leaking tanks shall be promptly emptied, repaired and returned to service, abandoned or removed in accordance withSection 3404.2.13 or 3404.2.14 and in accordance with WAC 173-360-325. Section 298. Subsection 3404.2.7.11 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.7.11 Tank lining. Steel tanks are allowed to be lined only for the purpose of protecting the interior from corrosion or providing compatibility with a material to be stored. Only those liquids tested for compatibility with the lining material are allowed to be stored in lined tanks. Tank lining shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable provisions of NFPA 326, Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning and Repair and WAC 173-360-325. Section 299. Subsection 3404.2.8 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.8 Vaults. Vaults shall be located outside of buildings, shall be allowed to be either above or below grade and shall comply with Sections 3404.2.8.1 through 3404.2.8.18. Section 300. Subsection 3404.2.9.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.9.1 Fire protection. Fire protection for above-ground tanks shall comply with Sections 3404.2.9.1.1 through 3404.2.9.1.4.
Above-ground tanks located outside buildings and used for the storage of Class I flammable liquids shall be protected with an approved foam fire protection system.
Exception: Protected above-ground tanks.
Above-ground tanks located outside buildings and used for the storage of Class II combustible liquids shall be protected by an approved water-spray system.
Exception: Protected above-ground tanks of any size and portable and stationary tanks up to 660 gallons (2498 L) individual capacity provided with approved portable fire extinguishers and an adequate available water supply.
Above-ground tanks located outside and used for the storage of Class III combustible liquids shall be protected in accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.1(a) of NFPA 30.
Exception: Protected above-ground tanks. * * * Section 301. Subsection 3404.2.9.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.9.4 Above-ground tanks inside of buildings. 3404.2.9.4.1 Overflow prevention. Tanks storing Class I, II and IIIA liquids inside buildings shall be equipped with a device or other means to prevent overflow into the building including, but not limited to: a float valve; a preset meter on the fill line; a valve actuated by the weight of the tanks contents; a low head pump which is incapable of producing overflow; or a liquidtight overflow pipe at least one pipe size larger than the fill pipe and discharging by gravity back to the outside source of liquid or to an approved location.
Tanks containing Class III-B liquids and connected to generators shall be provided with a means to prevent overflow into buildings in accordance with Section 3404.2.7.5.8.
3404.2.9.4.2 Maximum quantity allowed outside of a liquid storage room. Aboveground storage tanks storing Class I, II and IIIA liquids inside buildings in quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Table
2703.1.1(1) shall be confined to a liquid storage room constructed and separated as required by the Seattle Building Code and complying with Section 3404.3.7.
Exception: Protected above-ground tanks containing Class II or III-A liquids in accordance with SFD Administrative Rule 34.01.07 Use Of Protected Above-ground Tanks For Fuel Storage Inside Buildings.
3404.2.9.4.3 Maximum quantity allowed within a liquid storage room. The maximum aggregate quantity of flammable and combustible liquids in aboveground storage tanks allowed inside a building within a liquid storage room constructed and separated as
required by the Seattle Building Code and complying with Section 3404.3.7 shall be limited to 20,000 gallons (75 700 L). Section 302. Subsection 3404.2.9.5.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3404.2.9.5.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited or quantity limits are established. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established 3404.2.9.5.1.1 Location of tanks with pressures 2.5 psig or less. Above-ground tanks operating at pressures not exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) for storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquids, which are designed with a floating roof, a weak roof-to-shell seam or equipped with emergency venting devices limiting pressure to 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa), shall be located in accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.1(a) of NFPA 30. Exceptions: 1. Vertical tanks having a weak roof-to-shell seam and storing Class IIIA liquids are allowed to be located at one-half the distances specified in Table 4.3.2.1.1(a) of NFPA 30, provided the tanks are not within a diked area or drainage path for a tank storing Class I or II liquids. 2. Liquids with boilover characteristics and unstable liquids in accordance with Sections 3404.2.9.5.1.3 and 3404.2.9.5.1.4. 3. For protected above-ground tanks in accordance with Section 3404.2.9.6 and tanks in at-grade or above-grade vaults in accordance with Section 3404.2.8, the distances in Table 4.3.2.1.1(b) of NFPA 30 shall apply and shall be reduced by one-half, but not to less than 5 feet (1524 mm).
TABLE 3404.2.9.5.1-A QUANTITY RESTRICTIONS FOR ABOVE-GROUND STORAGE TANKS USED FOR DISPENSING INTO EQUIPMENT
TYPE OF LIQUID LOCATION OF TANK
Within Fire Within I-zone1,2 Outside I-zone1,2 District
Class I Prohibited Maximum primary Maximum primary tank tank capacity = 1,000 gallons Capacity = 500
gallons
Class II for open 660 gallons Maximum primary Maximum primary tank use tank capacity = 2,000 gallons Capacity = 660
gallons
Combination Class Prohibited 3,000 gallons 3 1,000 gallons 3 I and Class II liquids in compartmentalized tanks for open use
Class II outside 2,000 gallons Maximum primary Maximum primary tank for closed use tank capacity = (e.g. emergency 4,000 gallons Capacity = 2,000 generators)
gallons
1I-zone means Industrial zones identified in accordance with the City Land Use Code.
2Additional tanks are allowed on the same site when separated from one another by a minimum of 100 feet.
3Maximum individual compartment capacities shall not exceed the maximum allowable primary tank capacity for the class of liquid. 3404.2.9.5.1.2 Location of tanks with pressures exceeding 2.5 psig. Above-ground tanks for the storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquids operating at pressures exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) or equipped with emergency venting allowing pressures to exceed 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) shall be located in accordance with Table 4.3.2.1.2 of NFPA 30. Exception: Liquids with boilover characteristics and unstable liquids in accordance with Sections 3404.2.9.5.1.4 and 3404.2.9.5.1.5. * * * Section 303. Subsection 3404.2.13 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.2.13 Abandonment and status of tanks. Tanks taken out of service shall be removed in accordance with Section 3404.2.14, or safeguarded in accordance with Sections 3404.2.13.1 through 3404.2.13.2.3 and API 1604. Residential heating oil tanks required by this section to be removed or decommissioned shall also comply with Administrative Rule 34.02.07, Decommissioning Residential Heating Oil Tanks. * * * Section 304. A new subsection 3404.2.15 is adopted to read as follows: 3404.2.15 Maintenance. Above-ground tanks and connected piping shall be maintained in a safe operating condition. Tanks shall be maintained in accordance with their listings. Damage to above-ground tanks shall be repaired using materials having equal or greater strength and fire resistance, or the tank shall be replaced or taken out of service. Section 305. Subsection 3404.3.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.1 Design, construction and capacity of containers and portable tanks. The design, construction and capacity of containers and portable tanks for the storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall be in accordance with this section and Section 6.2 of NFPA 30. 3404.3.1.1 Approved containers. Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used. It shall be unlawful to sell, offer for sale or distribute any container for the storage and/or use of flammable liquids, unless such container has been approved for such purpose under applicable provisions of this code. Section 306. Subsection 3404.3.4.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.4.4 Liquids for maintenance and operation of equipment. In all occupancies, quantities of flammable and combustible liquids in excess of 10 gallons (38 L) used for maintenance purposes and the operation of equipment shall be stored in liquid storage cabinets in accordance with Section 3404.3.2. Quantities not exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) are allowed to be stored outside of a cabinet when in approved containers located in private garages or other approved locations. In Groups A, B, E, F, I, M, R and S occupancies, quantities of flammable and combustible liquids used for demonstration, treatment and laboratory work exceeding 10 gallons (37.85 L) shall be stored in liquid storage cabinets in accordance with Section 3404.3.2. Quantities not exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) shall be in approved containers in approved locations. Section 307. Subsection 3404.3.5.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3404.3.5.1 Basement storage. Class I liquids shall be allowed to be stored in basements
Quantities of Class I flammable liquids in basements in excess of 10 gallons shall be stored in approved liquid storage cabinets in accordance with Section 3404.3.2.
Exception: Class I liquids stored and used in basement areas of research laboratories in accordance with Administrative Rule 34.03.07, Flammable Liquid Storage and Use in Basement Level Laboratories. Class II and IIIA liquids shall also be allowed to be stored in basements, provided that automatic suppression and other fire protection are provided in accordance with Chapter 9. Section 308. Subsection 3404.3.6.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.6.1 Container type. Containers for Class I liquids shall be metal. Exception: In sprinklered buildings, an aggregate quantity of 120 gallons (454 L) of water-miscible Class IB and Class IC liquids is allowed in nonmetallic containers, each having a capacity of 16 ounces (0.473 L) or less.
Plastic containers may be used for Class II and III liquids only when individual containers are:
1. Stored less than 5 feet (1524 mm) high; or
2. Confined to box bins protected by automatic sprinklers within racks. Section 309. Subsection 3404.3.7.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.7.3 Spill control and secondary containment. Liquid storage rooms shall be provided with spill control and secondary containment in accordance with Section 2704.2. See Section 3404.3.7.5.1 for special fire protection requirements if secondary containment of nonwater-miscible flammable or combustible liquids is to be achieved through the use of recessed floors or liquid-tight sills allowed under Section 2704.2. Section 310. Subsection 3404.3.7.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.7.5 Fire protection. Fire protection for liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sections 3404.3.7.5.1 and 3404.3.7.5.2.
If secondary containment of nonwater-miscible flammable or combustible liquids is achieved through the use of recessed floors or liquid-tight sills as allowed in Section 2704.2, an automatic foam system shall be provided and must be approved by
the fire code official.
Point of Information
Nonwater-miscible flammable and combustible liquids are those flammable and combustible liquids that are unable to dissolve uniformly with water. Whether a flammable or combustible liquid is soluble with water is dependent on the chemical nature of the
liquid. A source of information regarding the water solubility of common flammable and combustible liquids can be found in NFPA 325M. Section 311. Subsection 3404.3.8.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.8.2 Spill control and secondary containment. Liquid storage warehouses shall be provided with spill control and secondary containment as set forth in Section 2704.2. See Section 3404.3.7.5.1 for special fire protection requirements if secondary containment of nonwater-miscible flammable or combustible liquids is to be achieved through the use of recessed floors or liquid-tight sills allowed under Section 2704.2. Section 312. Subsection 3404.3.8.4 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3404.3.8.4 Fire-extinguishing systems. Liquid storage warehouses shall be protected by automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9 and Tables 3404.3.6.3(4) through 3404.3.6.3(7) and Table 3404.3.7.5.1, or Section 4.8.2 and Tables 4.8.2(a) through (f) of NFPA 30. In-rack sprinklers shall also comply with NFPA 13. Automatic foam-water systems and automatic AFFF water sprinkler systems shall not be used except when approved. Protection criteria developed from fire modeling or full-scale fire testing conducted at an approved testing laboratory are allowed in lieu of the protection as shown in Tables 3404.3.6.3(2) through 3404.3.6.3(7) and Table 3404.3.7.5.1 when approved. See Section 3404.3.7.5.1 for special fire protection requirements if secondary containment of nonwater-miscible flammable or combustible liquids is to be achieved through the use of recessed floors or liquid-tight sills allowed under Section 2704.2. Section 313. Subsection 3405.4.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code isamended as follows:
3405.4.1 Unit with a capacity of 60 gallons or less. Solvent distillation units used to Exceptions: 1. Solvent distillation units installed in dry cleaning plants in accordance with Chapter 12. 2. Solvent distillation units used in continuous through-put industrial processes where the source of heat is remotely supplied using steam, hot water, oil or other heat transfer fluids, the temperature of which is below the autoignition point of the solvent.
4 4. Solvent distillation units installed or in service prior to September 27, 1998 when in accordance with Sections 3405.4.7 through 3405.4.10. Section 314. A new subsection 3405.4.10 is adopted to read as follows: 3405.4.10 Existing units. Point of Information Solvent distillation units installed or placed in service after September 27, 1998 shall be in accordance with Sections 3405.4.1 through 3405.4.9. 3405.4.10.1 General. Solvent distillation units installed or placed in service prior to September 27, 1998 shall be in accordance with Section 3405.4.10. Exceptions: 1. Existing commercially produced high purity column stills with a chamber capacity of 60 gallons (227 L) or less which are constructed of UL or CSA approved components and provided with an enclosed cabinet, mechanical ventilation and microprocessor control. Such units shall be located in a laboratory or similar controlled environment as approved by the chief, maintained at least 3 feet (914 mm) from ignition sources, and separated from exit ways by 1-hour fire-resistant construction. 2. Existing commercially produced solvent distillation units, including glass apparatus and electric heating mantels, with a chamber capacity of 1.5 liters or less which are used for research, testing and experimental purposes in a laboratory setting or similar controlled environment. 3405.4.10.2 Listing. Solvent distillation units used to process Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be listed in accordance with the Seattle Electrical Code for Class 1, Division 1 or 2 hazardous locations. Exception: When approved by the chief, existing commercially produced units having a chamber capacity of 60 gallons (227 L) or less when separated from exits and exit ways by 1-hour fire-resistant construction and located at least 3 feet (914 mm) away from ignition sources. Point of Information Solvent distillation units installed or placed in service after September 27, 1998 shall be in accordance with Sections 3405.4.1 through 3405.4.9. 3405.4.10.3 Location. Solvent distillation units shall not be used in basements. Units processing Class I, II or IIIA liquids, having a distillation capacity exceeding 60 gallons (227 L) shall be used in locations that comply with the use and mixing requirement of Section 3405 and other applicable provisions in Chapter 34. 3405.4.10.4 Overfill protection. A means to automatically interrupt distillation and prevent collection containers and portable tanks from overfilling, or an overfill containment pan sized to contain the entire capacity of the distillation chamber shall be provided. 3405.4.10.5 Safety limit controls. Safety limit controls which shut off the unit in the event of a malfunction that increases the risk of fire or explosion shall be provided. 3405.4.10.6 Maximum temperature. The maximum temperature of the unit distillation chamber shall not exceed the autoignition temperature of the liquid being distilled. Section 315. A new subsection 3405.4.11 is adopted to read as follows: 3405.4.11 Units installed outdoors. Solvent distillation units installed outdoors shall be in accordance with Sections 3405.4.7 through 3405.4.10 and the following: Units shall be located a minimum of 15 feet (4572 mm) from public ways, property lines, combustible construction and openings to buildings. Spill control is required around the unit in accordance with Section 2704.2. An attendant is required while the unit is in operation. The unit shall be empty when unattended or shut down and the area secured in an approved manner. Section 316. Subsection 3406.5.4.5 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3406.5.4.5 Commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing. Dispensing of Class II and III motor vehicle fuel from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles located at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments is allowed where permitted, provided such dispensing operations are conducted in accordance with the following: 1. Dispensing shall occur only at sites that have been issued a permit to conduct mobile fueling. 2. The owner of a mobile fueling operation shall provide to the jurisdiction a written response plan which demonstrates readiness to respond to a fuel spill and carry out appropriate mitigation measures, and describes the process to dispose properly of contaminated materials. 3. A detailed site plan shall be submitted with each application for a permit. The site plan shall indicate: all buildings, structures and appurtenances on site and their use or function; all uses adjacent to the property lines of the site; the locations of all storm drain openings, adjacent waterways or wetlands; information regarding slope, natural drainage, curbing, impounding and how a spill will be retained upon the site property; and the scale of the site plan. Provisions shall be made to prevent liquids spilled during dispensing operations from flowing into buildings or off-site. Acceptable methods include, but shall not be limited to, grading driveways, raising doorsills or other approved means. 4. The fire code official is allowed to impose limits on the times and days during which mobile fueling operations may take place, and specific locations on a site where fueling is permitted. 5. Mobile fueling operations shall be conducted in areas not accessible to the public or shall be limited to times when the public is not present.
6. Mobile fueling shall not take place within 15 feet (4572 mm) of buildings, property lines,
Exceptions:
1. The distance to storm drains can be eliminated if an approved storm drain cover or an approved equivalent that will prevent any fuel from reaching the drain is in place prior to fueling or hose being placed within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the drain. When
placement of a storm drain cover will cause the accumulation of excessive water or difficulty in safely conducting the fueling, it shall not be used and fueling shall not take place within 15 feet (4572 mm) of a drain.
2. The distance to storm drains can be eliminated for drains that direct intake to approved oil-water separators. 7. The tank vehicle shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 385 and local, state and federal requirements. The tank vehicle's specific functions shall include that of supplying fuel to motor vehicle fuel tanks. The vehicle and all its equipment shall be maintained in good repair. 8. Signs prohibiting smoking or open flames within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the tank vehicle or the point of fueling shall be prominently posted on three sides of the vehicle including the back and both sides. 9. A portable fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 40:BC shall be provided on the vehicle with signage clearly indicating its location. 10. The dispensing nozzles and hoses shall be of an approved and listed type and the inside diameter of the hose shall not exceed 11/4 inches (32mm). 11. The dispensing hose shall not be extended from the reel more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) in length. All pressure hoses and couplings shall be inspected at intervals appropriate to the service. Any hose showing materials deterioration, signs of leakage or weakness in its carcass or at the couplings shall be withdrawn from service or repaired or discarded.
12. Absorbent materials, nonwater-absorbent pads capable of absorbing a minimum of 16 gallons (61 L), a 10-foot-long (3048 mm) containment boom, an approved container with lid, 13. Tank vehicles shall be equipped with a "fuel limit" switch such as a count-back switch, to limit the amount of a single fueling operation to a maximum of 500 gallons (1893 L) before resetting the limit switch. Exception: Tank vehicles where the operator carries and can utilize a remote emergency shutoff device which, when activated, immediately causes flow of fuel from the tank vehicle to cease. 14. Persons responsible for dispensing operations shall be trained in the appropriate mitigating actions in the event of a fire, leak or spill. Training records shall be maintained by the dispensing company and shall be made available to the fire code official upon request. 15. Operators of tank vehicles used for mobile fueling operations shall have in their possession at all times an emergency communications device to notify the proper authorities in the event of an emergency. 16. The tank vehicle dispensing equipment shall be constantly attended and operated only by designated personnel who are trained to handle and dispense motor fuels.
17. 18. The engines of vehicles being fueled shall be shut off during dispensing operations. 19. Nighttime fueling operations shall only take place in adequately lighted areas. 20. The tank vehicle shall be positioned with respect to vehicles being fueled to prevent traffic from driving over the delivery hose. 21. During fueling operations, tank vehicle brakes shall be set, chock blocks shall be in place and warning lights shall be in operation. 22. Motor vehicle fuel tanks shall not be topped off. 23. The dispensing hose shall be properly placed on an approved reel or in an approved compartment prior to moving the tank vehicle.
24. The fire code official and other appropriate authorities shall be notified without delay by the fuel delivery vehicle operator when a reportable spill or unauthorized discharge occurs or when any spill or accidental
release, inside or outside of a building, could present a fire or life safety hazard.
25. Operators shall place a drip pan or absorbent in good condition under each fuel fill opening prior to and during all dispensing operations. Drip pans shall be liquid tight. The pan or absorbent shall have a capacity of at least 5 gallons (19 L).
Spills retained in the drip pan or absorbent pillow need not be reported. Operators, when fueling, shall have on their persons an absorbent pad capable of capturing diesel foam overfills. Except during fueling, the nozzle shall face upwards and an
absorbent pad shall be kept under the nozzle to prevent drips. Contaminated absorbent pads shall be disposed of regularly in accordance with local, state and federal requirements.
26. It shall be the responsibility of the permit applicant to ensure that all persons and parties with an interest in the property (i.e., property owner, lessor, real-estate company, property manager as well as operators of the property) have given
explicit consent to allow mobile fueling to occur on the property. Managers, lessees, renters and other persons cannot solely give permission for mobile fueling to occur on the property.
27. Fueling locations shall have a surface that will be protected by continuous pavement (cement or asphalt) which is in good repair. Good repair means that a surface has no cracks, holes or means through which a spill could reach soil.
Exception: Demonstration by the vehicle operator that the flow of fuel can be stopped from the furthest fueling location within 15 seconds. Section 317. Subsection 3801.1 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3801.1 Scope. Storage, handling and transportation of LP-gas and the installation of LP-gas equipment pertinent to systems for such uses shall comply with this chapter, NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58 , Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code as amended. Exceptions:
1. LP-gas used with oxygen for hot work operations shall be in accordance with Chapter 26.
2. LP-gas used in connection with outdoor patio heaters shall be in accordance with Section 603.4. Properties of LP-gases shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B of NFPA 58 as amended. Section 318. Subsection 3801.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3801.3 Construction documents. Where a single container is more than Section 319. Section 3803 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 3803 INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT
3803.1 General. LP-gas equipment shall be installed in accordance with
SECTION 3803.2
USE OF LP-GAS INSIDE BUILDINGS
3803.2 Use of LP-gas containers in buildings. LP-gas containers shall not be used inside of buildings.
Exception:
3803.2.1 Portable containers. Portable LP-gas containers, as defined in NFPA 58 as amended, shall not be used in buildings except as specified in Exception: Use with self-contained torch assemblies in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.6.
3803.2.1.2 Construction, renovation and temporary heating. Portable containers are allowed to be used in buildings or areas of buildings undergoing construction Individual LP-gas container capacities and aggregate quantities of LP-gas allowed within buildings undergoing construction or renovation shall be in accordance with Table 3803.2.1.2-A.
TABLE 3803.2.1.2-A USE OF LP-GAS INSIDE BUILDINGS UNDERGOING CONSTRUCTION or RENOVATION 1
Location Maximum Maximum Aggregate Maximum Aggregate Individual Quantity per Quantity inside Container Floor the Building Capacity
Within Occupied A Limits established by permit issued by Special Events Occupancies Section
Within Occupied 50 lbs. water Number of Number of Buildings other capacity cylinders shall cylinders shall than A (nominal 20 lb not exceed the not exceed the Occupancies LP-gas capacity)
number of workers number of workers assigned to use assigned to use the LP-gas. the LP-gas.
Unoccupied 239 lbs. water 735 lbs. water 4410 lbs. water Buildings capacity (nominal capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 100 lb LP-gas 300 lb LP-gas 1800 lb LP-gas capacity)
capacity) capacity)
1 Weight of LP-gas per gallon = 4.20 lbs. See Point of Information.
Individual LP-gas container capacities and aggregate quantities of LP-gas allowed within buildings for temporary heating shall be in accordance with Table 3803.2.1.2-B.
TABLE 3803.2.1.2-B USE OF LP-GAS INSIDE BUILDINGS FORTEMPORARY HEATING1,2
Location Maximum Maximum Aggregate Individual Quantity Inside
Container the Building Capacity
Group F 239 lbs. water 735 lbs. water Occupancies capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 100 lb LP-gas 300 lb LP-gas capacity) capacity)
All Occupancies3 Established by Established by except Group F temporary permit temporary permit Occupancies
1 Temporary heating refers to seasonal space heating that may supplement the buildings primary heat source.
2Weight of LP-gas per gallon = 4.20 lbs.
3Allowed in these occupancies only for emergency heating to prevent damage to the building or contents when the permanent heating system is temporarily out of service.
3803.2.1.3 Group F occupancies. In Group F occupancies, portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply quantities necessary for processing, research or experimentation.
Temporary heating using LP-gas is also allowed inside Group F occupancies in accordance with Section 3803.2.1.2.
Individual LP-gas container capacities and aggregate quantities of LP-gas allowed within Group F Occupancies shall be limited in accordance with Table 3803.2.1.3.
TABLE 3803.2.1.3 USE OF LP-GAS INSIDE GROUP F OCCUPANCIES1
Location Maximum Maximum Aggregate Individual Container Container Capacity per Capacity Manifold2
Fire District 100 lbs. water 287 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 40 lb LP-gas) 120 lb LP-gas capacity)
Elsewhere 239 lbs. water 735 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 100 lb LP-gas 300 lb LP-gas capacity) capacity) 1 Weight of LP-gas per gallon = 4.20 lbs Where multiple manifolds of such containers are present in the same room, each manifold shall be separated from other manifolds by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). [NFPA 58 6.17.6] 3803.2.1.4 Group B, E and I occupancies. In Group B, E and I laboratory occupancies portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used for research and experimentation. Such containers shall not be used in classrooms. Such containers shall not exceed a 50-pound (23 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for educational or research purposes and shall not exceed a 12-pound (5 kg) water capacity in occupancies used for institutional purposes. Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). [NFPA 58 6.17.7] 3803.2.1.5 Demonstration uses. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used temporarily for demonstrations and public exhibitions. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of 12 pounds (5 kg). Where more than one such container is present in the same room, each container shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). [NFPA 58 6.17.9]
3803.2.1.6 Use with self-contained torch assemblies. Portable LP-gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved self-contained torch assemblies or similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed a water capacity of
2.7
3803.2.1.7 Use for food preparation. Where approved, listed LP-gas commercial food service appliances are allowed to be used for food-preparation within restaurants and in attended commercial food-catering operations in accordance with
3803.2.2 Industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines. Containers on industrial vehicles and floor maintenance machines shall comply with
3803.3
Use of LP-gas containers on roofs or exterior balconies. LP-gas containers
on roofs or exterior balconies shall be in accordance with Sections 3803.3.1 through 3803.3.2.
3803.3.1 LP-gas containers on roofs of buildings. LP-gas containers are prohibited on the roofs of buildings and parking garages. [NFPA 58 6.6.7.1]
Exceptions:
1. Temporary installations at construction sites in accordance with Section 3803.4.
2. A single LP-gas container having an individual water capacity not exceeding 48 lbs. (nominal 20 lbs. LP-gas) connected to a LP-gas grill.
3803.3.2 LP-gas containers on exterior balconies. LP-gas containers with a water capacity greater than 2.7 pounds (1.2-kg) shall not be located above the first floor on decks or balconies that are attached to a Group R-1 or R-2 Occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. LP-gas containers not exceeding a water capacity of 48 pounds (nominal 20 pounds LP-gas) may be used on noncombustible balconies served by outside stairways where only such stairways are used to transport the container. See NFPA 58 6.17.11.2.
2. A single LP-gas container having an individual water capacity not exceeding 48 lbs. (nominal 20 lbs. LP-gas) connected to a LP-gas grill is allowed to be located on each exterior balcony of any occupancy except Group R-2 occupancies that are licensed
by the Washington State Department of Health and Social Services or Washington State Department of Health, provided a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 20-B is located within 30 feet of the grill.
3803.4 Special uses of LP-gas outside of buildings. Individual container capacities and maximum aggregate quantities of LP-gas used for outdoor cooking, fueling equipment at construction sites, fueling tar kettles, fueling hot tar tank trucks and used
in conjunction with torch applied roofing operations shall be limited in accordance with Table 3803.4.
LP-gas-fired heating appliances located outdoors at permanent Group A drinking and dining establishments are allowed in accordance with Section 603.4.2.
TABLE 3803.4SPECIAL USES OF LP-GAS OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS
Use/Activity Location Maximum Maximum Aggregate Individual Quantity Container Capacity
Outdoor Cooking Fire District 50 lbs. water 100 lbs.water capacity1 capacity (nominal (except R-2 and (nominal 20 lbs. 40 lbs. LP-gas R-3 where
LP-gas capacity) capacity) allowed)
Elsewhere 50 lbs. water 357 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 20 lbs. LP-gas 150 lbs. LP-gas capacity) capacity)
Fueling Fire District Prohibited Prohibited Temporary Heating Equipment at Construction Sites
Elsewhere 500 gallons 500 gallons
Fire District 200 lbs. water 400 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 84 lbs. LP-gas 168 lbs. LP-gas capacity)
capacity)
Fueling Tar Kettles
Elsewhere 3024 lbs. water 3024 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 1260 lbs. LP-gas 1260 lbs. LP-gas capacity)
capacity)
On Roofs of 200 lbs. water 400 lbs. water Buildings capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 84 lbs. LP-gas 168 lbs. LP-gas capacity) capacity)
Fueling Hot Tar Fire District 200 lbs. water 400 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 84 lbs. LP-gas 168 lbs. LP-gas
capacity) capacity) Elsewhere 500 galllons 500 gallons Tank Trucks
Fueling Roofing Occupied 72 lbs. water 300 lbs. water Torches Buildings capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 30 lbs. LP-gas 126 lbs. LP-gas
capacity) capacity)
Unoccupied 72 lbs. water 605 lbs. water Buildings capacity (nominal capacity (nominal 30 lbs. LP-gas 252 lbs. LP-gas capacity) capacity) 1 When the LP-gas is separated from the public by a minimum of 30 feet, or by a noncombustible partition, the maximum allowable individual container size may be increased to 239 lbs. water capacity (nominal 100 lbs. LP-gas capacity) and the maximum allowable aggregate quantity may be increased to 1,000 lbs. water capacity (nominal 420 lbs. LP-gas capacity). Section 320. Subsection 3804 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3804.1 General. The storage and handling of LP-gas and the installation and maintenance of related equipment shall comply with this chapter, NFPA58 as amended, and be subject to the approval of the fire code official
3804.2 Maximum capacity within established limits.
3804.3 Container location. Containers shall be located with respect to buildings, public ways, and lot lines of adjoining property that can be built upon, in accordance with Table 3804.3. [NFPA 58 6.3.1]
3804.3.1 Special hazards. Containers shall also be located with respect to special hazards such as above-ground flammable or combustible liquid tanks, oxygen or gaseous hydrogen containers, flooding or electric power lines as specified in
* * * Section 321. Section 3805 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: SECTION 3805 PROHIBITED STORAGE AND USE OF LP-GAS 3805.1 Nonapproved equipment. Liquefied petroleum gas shall not be used for the purpose of operating devices or equipment unless such device or equipment is approved for use with LP-gas. 3805.2 Release to the atmosphere. Liquefied petroleum gas shall not be released to the atmosphere, except through an approved liquid-level gauge or other approved device.
3805.3 Fire District restrictions. Storage and use of LP-gas containers having an individual capacity in excess of 239 pounds water capacity (nominal 100 pounds LP-gas) and all stationary installations are prohibited in the Fire District.
Exception: Containers and stationary installations up to 500 gallons LP-gas capacity west of Alaskan Way.
3805.4 Rooftop installations. LP-gas containers are prohibited on the roofs of buildings and parking garages. [NFPA 58 3.2.10.1, 3.4.1.1, 3.4.9] Exceptions:
1. Temporary installations at construction sites in accordance with Section 3803.4.
2. A single LP-gas container having an individual water capacity not exceeding 48 lbs. (nominal 20 lbs. LP-gas) connected to a LP-gas grill located on a roof of any occupancy except Group R-2 occupancies that are licensed by the Washington State
Department of Health and Social Services or Washington State Department of Health, provided a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 20-B is located within 30 feet of the grill. 3805.5 Stationary installations inside buildings. Stationary installations of LP-gas containers inside buildings are prohibited. [NFPA 58 6.2.2] Section 322. Subsection 3806.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3806.3 Dispensing locations. The point of transfer of LP-gas from one container to another shall be separated from exposures as specified in NFPA 58 as amended. [NFPA 58 6.5] Section 323. Subsection 3807.2 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows:
3807.2 Smoking and other sources of ignition. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall be posted when required by the fire code official. Smoking within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a point of transfer, while filling operations are in progress at
containers or vehicles, shall be prohibited. Control of other sources of ignition shall comply with Chapter 3 and Section 324. Subsection 3807.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3807.3 Clearance to combustibles. Weeds, grass, brush, trash and other combustible materials shall be kept a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from LP-gas tanks or containers. [NFPA 58 6.4.5.2] Section 325. Subsection 3808 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3808.1 General. Fire protection shall be provided for installations having storage containers with a water capacity of more than 4,000 gallons (15 140 L), as required by Section 6.23 of NFPA 58 as amended. 3808.2 Fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 shall be provided as specified in NFPA 58 as amended. Section 326. Section 3809 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3809.1 General. Storage of portable containers of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) or less, whether filled, partially filled or empty, at consumer sites or distributing points, and for resale by dealers or resellers shall comply with Sections 3809.2 through 3809.15. Exceptions: 1. Containers that have not previously been in LP-gas service. 2. Containers at distributing plants. 3. Containers at consumer sites or distributing points, which are connected for use. [NFPA 58 8.1] 3809.2 Exposure hazards. Containers in storage shall be located in a manner which minimizes exposure to excessive temperature rise, physical damage or tampering. [NFPA 58 8.2.1.1]
3809.3 Position. Containers in storage having individual water capacity greater than 2.7 3809.4 Separation from means of egress. Containers stored in buildings in accordance with Sections 3809.9 and 3809.11 shall not be located near exit access doors, exits, stairways, or in areas normally used, or intended to be used, as a means of egress. [NFPA 58 8.2.1.3] 3809.5 Quantity. Empty containers that have been in LP-gas service shall be considered as full containers for the purpose of determining the maximum quantities of LP-gas allowed in Sections 3809.9 and 3809.11. [NFPA 58 8.2.1.4] 3809.6 Storage on roofs. Containers which are not connected for use shall not be stored on roofs. [NFPA 58 8.2.1.5] 3809.7 Storage in basement, pit or similar location. Liquefied petroleum gas containers shall not be stored in a basement, pit or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. Liquefied petroleum gas containers shall not be stored in above-grade under floor spaces or basements unless such location is provided with an approved means of ventilation.
Exception: Department of Transportation (DOT) specification cylinders with a maximum water capacity of 2.7 3809.8 Protection of valves on containers in storage. Container valves shall be protected by screw-on-type caps or collars which shall be securely in place on all containers stored regardless of whether they are full, partially full or empty. Container outlet valves shall be closed or plugged. [NFPA 58 8.2.2]
3809.9 Storage within buildings accessible to the public and in residential occupancies. Storage of LP-gas within buildings accessible to the public and in residential occupancies shall be in accordance with this section.
3809.9.1 Storage within buildings accessible to the public.
Exception: Storage in restaurants and at food service locations of 10-oz (238-g) butane nonrefillable containers is limited to no more than 24 containers, and an additional twenty four 10-oz (238-g) butane nonrefillable containers stored in
another location within the building, where constructed with at least a 2-hour fire wall construction. [NFPA 58 8.3.2.3]
3809.9.2 Storage within residential occupancies. Storage of containers within residential occupancies, including the basement or any storage area in a common basement storage area in multi-family occupancies and attached garages, is limited to
containers having a maximum individual water capacity of 2.7 lbs.
(1.2 kg) and not exceeding 5.4-lb (2.4-kg) aggregate water capacity per living space unit. Each container shall meet DOT specifications. [NFPA 58 8.3.5] 3809.10 Storage within buildings not accessible to the public. The maximum quantity allowed in one storage location in buildings not accessible to the public, such as industrial buildings, shall not exceed a water capacity of 735 pounds (334 kg) [nominal 300 pounds (136 kg) of LP-gas]. Where additional storage locations are required on the same floor within the same building, they shall be separated by a minimum of 300 feet (91 440 mm). Storage beyond these limitations shall comply with Section 3809.11. [NFPA 58 8.3.3] Individual LP-gas container capacities and aggregate quantities of LPgas allowed to be stored within buildings not accessible to the public are limited in accordance with Table 3809.10.
TABLE 3809.10 STORAGE WITHIN BUILDINGS NOT ACCESSIBLE TO THE PUBLIC1
Location Max Individual Maximum Container Aggregate Capacity Quantity
Fire 72 lbs. water 144 lbs. water District capacity capacity (nominal 30 lbs. (nominal 60 lbs. LP-gas capacity) LP-gas)
Elsewhere 72 lbs. water 735 lbs. water capacity capacity (nominal 30 lbs. (nominal 300 LP-gas capacity) lbs. LP-gas capacity) 1 Weight of LP-gas per gallon = 4.20 lbs. 3809.10.1 Quantities on equipment and vehicles. Containers carried as part of service equipment on highway mobile vehicles need not be considered in the total storage capacity in Section 3809.10, provided such vehicles are stored in private garages and do not carry more than three LP-gas containers with a total aggregate LP-gas capacity not exceeding 100 pounds (45.4 kg) per vehicle. Container valves shall be closed. [NFPA 58 8.3.3.4] 3809.11 Storage within rooms used for gas manufacturing. Storage within buildings or rooms used for gas manufacturing, gas storage, gasair mixing and vaporization, and compressors not associated with liquid transfer shall comply with Sections 3809.11.1 and 3809.11.2. 3809.11.1 Quantity limits. The maximum quantity of LP-gas shall be 10,000 pounds (4540 kg). 3809.11.2 Construction. The construction of such buildings and rooms shall comply with requirements for Group H occupancies in the International Building Code; NFPA 58 as amended, Chapter 7; and both of the following: 1. Adequate vents shall be provided to the outside at both top and bottom, located at least 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings. 2. The entire area shall be classified for the purposes of ignition source control in accordance with Section 6.20 of NFPA 58 as amended. 3809.12 Location of storage outside of buildings. Storage outside of buildings of containers awaiting use, resale or part of a cylinder exchange program shall be located in accordance with Table 3809.12-A. [NFPA 58 8.4] Maximum aggregate quantities located outside of buildings accessible to the public shall be in accordance with Table 3809.12-B. TABLE 3809.12-A SEPARATION FROM EXPOSURES OF CONTAINERS AWAITING USE, RESALE OR EXCHANGE STORED OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS FROM EXPOSURES MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE FROM STORED CYLINDERS TO (feet): QUANTITY OF Nearest Line of LP-gas Doorway or Doorway or Combustible Motor LP-GAS important adjoining dispensing opening opening to vehicle STORED building or property station to a building a materials fuel (pounds) group occupied by with building dispenser of buildings schools, places two or more with one or of means means of line of religious of egress egress adjoining worship, property hospitals, that athletic fields may be built or other points upon of public gathering; busy thoroughfares; or sidewalks 720 or less 0 0 5 5 10 10 20 721 2,500 ((0))10 10 10 5* 10 10 20 2,501 10 10 10 10 10 10 20 6,000 6,001 20 20 20 20 20 10 20 10,000 Over 10,000 25 25 25 25 25 10 20 For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg. *5 foot (1524 mm) setback allowed to one of the two exits;10 foot (3048 mm) setback required to second exit. TABLE 3809.12-B STORAGE OUTSIDE BUILDINGS ACCESSIBLE TO THE PUBLIC1
Location Max Individual Maximum Container Aggregate Capacity Quantity
Fire District 72 lbs. water 357 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity 30 lbs. LP-gas) (nominal 150 lbs. LP-gas)
Elsewhere 72 pounds water 2592 lbs. water capacity (nominal capacity 30 lbs. LP-gas) (nominal 1080 lbs. LP-gas)2
1 Weight of LP-gas per gallon = 4.20 lbs.
2 Actual maximum quantity shall be determined on a case by case basis but shall not exceed the maximum quantity set forth here.
3809.13 Protection of containers. Containers shall be stored within a suitable enclosure or otherwise protected against tampering. Vehicular protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312 * * * Section 327. Subsection 3811.3 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: 3811.3 Garaging. Garaging of LP-gas tank vehicles shall be as specified in NFPA58 as amended. Vehicles with LP-gas fuel systems are allowed to bestored or serviced in garages as specified in Section 11.15 of NFPA 58 as amended.
Point of Information
The following Tables may be used to approximate container capacity conversions.
FOR PORTABLE DOT/ ICC/ CTC CYLINDER APPLICATIONS:
Propane Capacity Water Capacity
(lb) (gal) (lb) (gal)
5 1.2 12 1.4
10 2.4 23.8 2.8
14 3.3 34 4.1
20 4.7 48 5.7
25 5.9 59.5 7.1
30 7.1 72 8.6
40 9.5 95 11
60 14 144 17
100 24 239 29
150 35 357 43
200 47 477 57
300 71 715 86
420 99 1,000 119
FOR STATIONARY ASTM CONTAINER APPLICATIONS:
Water LP-gas LP-gas Capacity Capacity Capacity (gallons) (gallons)* (pounds)
100 80 338
125 100 423
150 120 508
250 200 848
325 260 -
500 400 -
1,000 800 * Based on propane specific gravity of .508 at 60 degrees Fahrenheit Section 328. Chapter 45 of the 2006 International Fire Code is amended as follows: CHAPTER 45 REFERENCED STANDARDS This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section 102.6. * * * NFPA National Fire Protection Association Batterymarch Park Quincy, MA 02269 NFPA Standard Title Referenced in code reference number section number * * *
58-04 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code as amended * * * 120-99 Coal Preparation Plants Table 1304.1 13007 Fixed Guideway Transit and Passenger Rail Systems as amended 316 * * * 498-01 Safe Havens and Interchange Lots for Vehicles Transporting Explosives 3301.1.2 502-04 Road Tunnels, Bridges, and other Limited Access Highways as amended 317 * * * UL Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. 333 Pfingsten Road Northbrook, IL 60062 Standard Title Referenced reference in Code number section number * * * 58-96 Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids-with Revisions through July 1998 3404.2.13.1.5 142-06 Standard for Steel Aboveground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids Chapter 34 * * * Section 329. A new Chapter 46 is adopted to read as follows: CHAPTER 46 WATERFRONT STRUCTURES FIRE PROTECTION SECTION 4601 GENERAL 4601.1 Scope. Piers, wharves, floats and marinas shall be in accordance with this chapter and other requirements of this code. Exception: Approved designated facilities and shipyards in accordance with Administrative Rule 26.02.07 Designated Hot Work Facilities and Shipyards. 4601.1.1 Conflicts. Where there is a conflict between this code and an ordinance or rule, this chapter governs unless the ordinance or rule establishes more stringent fire and life safety requirements. 4601.2 Signage. At the shore end of piers, wharves and floats conspicuous signage shall be located indicating the address and, for those structures that are designed to support vehicles, the weight limit. Numbers and letters shall be easily legible and have high contrast with the color of the sign background. Numbers and letters shall not be less than 5 inches (127 mm) in height. 4601.2.1 Labeling electrical disconnects. Electrical transformers, control panels, and breaker panels shall be readily accessible, clearly labeled and indicate the areas they service. See also Section 605. 4601.3 Fire extinguishers. One portable fire extinguisher having a minimum rating of 2A 20-BC shall be provided within 75 feet of all portions of piers, wharves, and floats. Additional fire extinguishers, suitable for the hazards involved, shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Section 906 and NFPA Standard 10. 4601.4 Emergency Plan. Owners of piers, wharves, floats and marinas shall prepare an emergency plan for the facility. The plan shall include procedures for fire department notification and fire evacuation, and shall include the location of portable fire extinguishers and hose cabinets, sprinkler and standpipe system control valves, fire department connections and electrical disconnects. Point of Information For examples of emergency plans, see information bulletins located at www.seattle.gov/fire titled Emergency Procedures for Public Occupancies and Fire Evacuation Planning. SECTION 4602 DEFINITIONS 4602.1 Limited application. For the purposes of this Chapter, certain terms are defined as follows: COVERED BOAT MOORAGE is a pier or system of floating or fixed accessways to which vessels on water may be secured, 50 percent or more of which is covered by a roof. DESIGNATED HOT WORK FACILITY. Those piers designated by the fire code official, and by virtue of their construction, location, fire protection, emergency vehicle access and fire hydrant availability, that are suitable to permit certain repairs to vessels. FLOAT is a floating structure normally used as a point of transfer for passengers and goods, or both, for mooring purposes. MARINA is any portion of the ocean or inland water, either naturally or artificially protected, for the mooring, servicing or safety of vessels and includes artificially protected works, the public or private lands ashore, and structures or facilities provided within the enclosed body of water and ashore for the mooring or servicing of vessels or the servicing of their crews or passengers. PIER is a structure, usually of greater length than width, of timber, stone, concrete or other material, having a deck and projecting from the shore into waters so that vessels may be moored alongside for loading, unloading, storage, repairs or commercial uses. SHIPYARD is a pier, wharf, or series of piers and related onshore facilities, designated by the fire code official, which by virtue of the pier construction, location, emergency vehicle access, fire protection, hydrant availability and onsite safety personnel in accordance with Seattle Fire Department Administrative Rule 26.02.07, Designated Hot Work Facilities and Shipyards, is suitable to permit repairs, including major conversions, on marine vessels of any length. SUBSTRUCTURE is that portion of the construction below and including the deck immediately above the water. SUPERSTRUCTURE is that portion of construction above the deck. Exception: Covered boat moorage. VESSEL is a watercraft of any type, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation. WHARF OR QUAY is a structure of timber, stone, concrete or other material having a platform built along and parallel to waters so that vessels may be moored alongside for loading, unloading, storage, repairs or commercial uses. SECTION 4603 PLANS AND APPROVALS 4603.1 Plans. Plans for pier, wharf, float and marina fire-protection shall be approved prior to installation. The work shall be subject to final inspection and approval after installation. SECTION 4604 ACCESS AND WATER SUPPLY 4604.1 Fire department access. Fire department apparatus access lanes, not less than 20 feet wide and capable of supporting a 50,000-pound vehicle or 24,000 pounds per axle (HS20 loading), shall be provided and so located as to provide fire department apparatus access to within 50 feet travel distance to the shore end of all piers, wharves and floats. The apparatus access lane shall meet the requirements of Appendix D. 4604.2 Fire hydrants. At least two fire hydrants shall be provided. One hydrant shall be located within 500 feet of the closest point of fire department apparatus access to the shore end of the marina piers, wharves or floats, or to the fire department connection (FDC) for those piers, wharves or floats that are equipped with standpipes. The second fire hydrant shall be located within 1000 feet of the closest point of fire department apparatus access to the shore end of the marina piers, wharves, or floats, or to the FDC for those piers, wharves or floats that are equipped with standpipes. All required hydrants shall be capable of delivering not less that 1,000 gpm at a minimum residual pressure of 20 psi each. Exception: The requirements for fire hydrants may be modified when alternate arrangements are approved by the fire code official. SECTION 4605 FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT 4605.1 Standpipe systems. A manual Class I standpipe system in accordance with NFPA 14, or Class III standpipe system in accordance with NFPA 14, when approved by the fire code official, shall be provided for piers, wharves, and floats where the hose lay distance from the fire apparatus to the most remote accessible portion of the pier, wharf or float exceeds 150 feet. Approved plastic pipe may be used when installed underwater, or when another approved method of protection from fire is provided. The standpipe piping shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm), sized to provide a minimum of 500 gpm at 130 psi at the most remote hose connection, with a simultaneous flow of 500 gpm at the third most remote hose connection on the same pier while maintaining a maximum system pressure of 175 psi. 4605.1.1 Hose connections. Hose connection stations on required standpipes shall be provided at the water end of the pier, wharf, or float, and along the entire length of the pier, wharf, or float at spacing not to exceed 150 feet (45 720 mm) and as close as practical to the land end. Exception: The hose connection at the land end of the pier, wharf or float may be omitted when a hose connection is located within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of the fire apparatus access road. Each hose connection shall consist of a valved 2 1/2-inch (64 mm) fire department hose outlet. Outlet caps shall have a predrilled 1/8-inch (3.2 mm) hole for pressure relief and be secured with a short length of chain or cable to prevent falling after removal. Listed equipment shall be used. 4605.2 Automatic sprinkler systems. 4605.2.1 Covered boat moorage. Automatic sprinklers shall be provided for covered boat moorage exceeding 500 square feet in projected roof area per pier, wharf or float. Ref: NFPA 303. The sprinkler system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13 for Extra Hazard Group 2 occupancy. If sprinklers are required by this chapter, they shall be extended to any structure on the pier, wharf or float exceeding 500 square feet in projected roof area. 4605.2.2 Substructure. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed under the substructure of every new waterfront structure in accordance with NFPA 307 and as specified in Chapter 9. Exceptions: 1. Combustible substructures whose deck area does not exceed 8,000 square feet (743.2 m2 ) supporting no superstructures. 2. Combustible substructures whose deck area does not exceed 8,000 square feet (743.2 m2 ) supporting superstructures not required to be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system as specified in Section 421.6.9. 3. Noncombustible substructures with or without superstructures. 4. Substructures over other than tidal water, where sprinkler heads cannot be installed with a minimum clearance of 4 feet (1219 mm) above mean high water. 5. Substructures resulting from walkways or finger piers that do not exceed l0 feet (3048 mm) in width. 4605.2.3 Superstructure. Automatic sprinklers shall be provided in superstructures as specified in Chapter 9. 4605.2.4 Monitoring. Sprinkler systems shall be monitored by an approved Central Station Service. 4605.3 Fire department connections. Standpipe and sprinkler systems shall be equipped with not less than a two-way 21/2-inch fire department connection (FDC), which shall be readily visible and located at the fire department apparatus access. See also 4604.2 Fire hydrants. 4605.4 Marina fire protection confidence testing. Standpipe and sprinkler systems shall be inspected and tested in accordance with Administrative Rule 9.02.07 Confidence Test Requirements for Life Safety Systems. Maintenance and periodic testing are the owner's responsibility, or the responsibility of such other person as may be designated, and are separate from fire department inspections. The person, firm or corporation performing such work shall have a certificate from the fire department. See Administrative Rule 9.01.07 Certification for Installing, Maintaining and Testing Life Safety Systems and Equipment. Section 330. A new Chapter 90 is adopted to read as follows: CHAPTER 90 RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES FOUR STORIES AND OVER Point of Information The requirements of this Chapter originated in City of Seattle Ordinance 98868, effective June 6, 1970. Ordinance 98868, also known as the Ozark ordinance, applied to all existing apartment houses, apartment hotels, and hotels four stories or more in height. SECTION 9001 GENERAL 9001.1 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the following words and terms have the meaning specified in section 9001.1: APARTMENT HOUSE: Any building or portion thereof, containing three (3) or more dwelling units. APARTMENT HOTEL: A building containing both dwelling units and guest rooms. GUEST ROOM: Any room or rooms used or intended to be used for sleeping purposes by a person hiring such room or rooms. HOTEL: A building in which is conducted the business of lodging the public and which contains six (6) or more guest rooms. 9001.2 Exit Enclosure Required. All existing apartment houses, apartment hotels and hotels four (4) stories or more in height, shall have at least two (2) fully enclosed stairways which have a one-hour fire-resistive rating throughout. The interior corridors and egressways thereof, including all doors, transoms and other openings into corridors, shall be constructed or improved to substantially have a one-hour fire-resistive rating throughout. In buildings constructed as apartment houses in accordance with the Building Code and being operated as apartment houses, walls and ceilings of plaster on wood lath or 1/2inch plasterboard construction, and 1-3/8-inch solid core doors or equivalent shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of this section. 9001.3 Sprinkler Alternative. In lieu of compliance with the requirements of Section 9001.2, approved automatic fire sprinkler systems may be installed in all stairways, interior corridors and egressways of existing apartment houses, apartment hotels, and hotels four (4) stories or more in height. Automatic sprinkler systems, if so installed, shall also be installed in all janitor rooms, storage closets, utility rooms, and other usable spaces in which combustible materials are or may be sorted or kept, unless such rooms or spaces are equipped with self-closing fire doors having a one-hour fire-resistive rating. SECTION 9002 CONFLICTS WITH LATER ADOPTED CODES Section 9002.1. Conflicts with Seattle Building and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after June 6, 1970. Where conflicts exist between the requirements of this chapter and Seattle Building Codes and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after June 6, 1970, the provisions of the later adopted codes apply. Section 331. A new Chapter 91 is adopted to read as follows: CHAPTER 91 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN NURSING HOMES Point of Information The requirements of this Chapter originated in City of Seattle Ordinance 94931, effective August 5, 1966. SECTION 9101 SCOPE 9101.1 Nursing Home Defined. For the purpose of this chapter, the term "nursing home" means any home, place, or institution which operates or maintains facilities providing convalescent or chronic care, or both, for a period in excess of 24 consecutive hours for three (3) or more patients not related by blood or marriage to the operator, who by reason of illness or infirmity, are unable properly to care for themselves. Convalescent and chronic care may include, but is not limited to any or all procedures commonly employed in waiting on the sick such as administration of medicines, preparation of dressings and bandages, and carrying out of treatment prescribed by a duly licensed practitioner of the healing arts. It may also include care of mentally incompetent persons if they do not require psychiatric treatment by or under the supervision of a physician specialized in the field of medicine. Nothing in this definition shall be construed to include general hospitals or other places which provide care and treatment for the acutely ill and maintain and operate facilities for major surgery or obstetrics, or both. Nothing in this definition shall be construed to include any boarding home, guest home, hotel or related institution which is held forth to the public as providing, and which is operated to give only board, room and laundry to persons not in need of medical or nursing treatment or supervision, except in the case of temporary acute illness. The mere designation by the operator of any place or institution, which does not provide care for the acutely ill or maintain and operate facilities for major surgery or obstetrics, as a hospital, sanitarium, or similar name shall not exclude such place or institution from the provisions of Section 9102. SECTION 9102 INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT 9102.1 Installation Exceptions. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in all usable rooms, corridors, and stairways of existing nursing homes with the following exceptions: 1. Nursing homes which are of Type I or II construction throughout, as defined in the Building Code. 2. Nursing homes not more than one story in height which have interiors with a one-hour fire resistance rating throughout. SECTION 9103 CONFLICTS WITH LATER ADOPTED CODES Section 9103.1. Conflicts with Seattle Building and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after August 5, 1966. Where conflicts exist between the requirements of this chapter and Seattle Building Codes and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after August 5, 1966, the provisions of the later adopted code apply providing they are not less stringent. Section 332. A new Chapter 92 is adopted to read as follows: CHAPTER 92 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN SCHOOLS Point of Information The requirements of this Chapter originated in City of Seattle Ordinance 94931, effective August 5, 1966. SECTION 9201 GENERAL 9201.1 School Buildings Defined. For the purpose of this chapter, the term "school building," means: 1. A public place of instruction operated by public authorities, including elementary and secondary schools. 2. A place of instruction operated by private persons or private or religious organizations in which the course of study is similar to that in a public school, and which has been authorized by the State as an educational institution. SECTION 9202 INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT 9202.1 Installation Exceptions. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in all usable rooms, corridors and stairways of existing school buildings, two (2) stories or more in height, with the following exceptions: 1. School buildings which are of Type I or II construction as defined in the Building Code. 2. School buildings not over three (3) stories in height which have interiors with one-hour fire resistance rating throughout, and which have egress enclosures with a one-hour fire resistance rating. 3. School buildings not over three (3) stories in height, with interiors which substantially have a one-hour fire resistance rating, need only have egress corridors, stairways, janitor rooms, storage rooms and similar spaces equipped with approved automatic sprinkler systems. Classrooms and assembly rooms in such buildings need not be so equipped. SECTION 9203 CONFLICTS WITH LATER ADOPTED CODES Section 9203.1. Conflicts with Seattle Building and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after August 5, 1966. Where conflicts exist between the requirements of this chapter and Seattle Building Codes and Seattle Fire Codes adopted after August 5, 1966, the provisions of the later adopted code apply. Section 333. A new Chapter 93 is adopted to read as follows: CHAPTER 93 MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS Point of Information The requirements of this Chapter originated in City of Seattle Ordinance 110299, effective January 23, 1982. Where used in this Chapter, the term "Building Code" means the 1982 Seattle Building Code. Where used in this Chapter, the terms "this Code" and "the fire code" mean the 1982 Seattle Fire Code. SECTION 9301 GENERAL 9301.1 Purpose. The main purpose of this chapter is to improve the fire and life safety of existing high-rise buildings that do not conform to current City codes so that the health, safety and welfare of the general public is provided for and promoted. It is recognized that the application of present day fire protection techniques to some existing high-rise buildings is difficult. For this reason, this chapter may permit the use of alternative methods and innovative approaches and techniques to achieve its purpose, when approved by the chief and the Building Official. 9301.2 Scope. This chapter applies to all high-rise buildings in existence at the time of its adoption, as well as to all high-rise buildings coming into existence after the adoption thereof. 9301.2.1 Hazards and design features. Whenever the chief finds a condition in a high-rise building not specifically addressed in this chapter, which in the chief's opinion makes fire escape or fire fighting unusually difficult, the chief is authorized to declare it to be a hazard, notify the owner of such condition and order its correction in a manner consistent with these minimum safeguards. 9301.2.2 Exempt Buildings. The chief and the Director of the Department of Planning and Development may exempt high-rise buildings that meet the requirements of Section 403 of the 1982 Seattle Building Code from complying with provisions of this chapter. 9301.2.3 Conflicts. Where there is a conflict between the provisions of this chapter and the provisions of an ordinance or code adopted after January 23, 1982, the provisions of the later adopted ordinance or code apply. 9301.3 Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, certain words shall be construed as specified in this section. CENTRAL STATION: A fire alarm reporting service listed by the Underwriters Laboratories or authorized by the chief to report alarms to the Seattle Fire Department Alarm Center. In lieu of connection to a central station listed by Underwriters Laboratories, the chief may approve building staff monitoring of a fire alarm annunciator panel where: 1. Such staff are properly trained to monitor the annunciator panel and report alarm signals to the fire department alarm center via the 9-1-1 system. 2. One or more building staff is on duty 24 hours a day and remains in the direct vicinity of the annunciator panel, e.g., a hotel desk clerk where the panel is behind the registration desk. 3. Staff persons are available in low income high-rise buildings whose primary duty requires them to be at the front desk. DEAD-END CORRIDOR: A corridor which permits only one direction of travel from a unit or normally occupied room door to an exit, or which intersects an exit corridor on one end and does not provide an exit path on the other end. A corridor which has fire escapes directly accessible from it is not a dead-end corridor. FLOOR USED FOR HUMAN OCCUPANCY: A floor designed and intended for occupancy by one or more persons for any part of a day, including a roof garden and an active storage area. An area that is permanently unoccupied or is occupied for the service of building equipment only is not included in this definition. HIGH-RISE BUILDING: Buildings having floors used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. LOW INCOME RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Those buildings that meet the following requirements: 1. At least fifty percent (50%) of the dwelling or housing units as defined in the Seattle Housing and Building Maintenance Code (Seattle Municipal Code Ch. 22.204) are rented to non-transient persons at a rent at or below .9% of the current median income for all families in the Seattle area as determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development; and 2. The average monthly rent for all dwelling or housing units in the building does not exceed 1.4% of the Median Income Limit. For purposes of calculating the average monthly rent, a room which is rented on a hostel-style basis to three (3) or more non-related persons shall be considered as one room rented for $200 per month. Monthly rent shall include all charges for shelter and provision of items normally associated with such use, but shall not include board, health care, telephone charges and other such items. SECTION 9302 EXITS 9302.1 General. All exits in high-rise buildings shall be illuminated as required in Section 1211 of this Code and enclosed with a minimum of one-hour fire resistive construction. Every high-rise building shall have at least one such exit. Where existing exterior fire escapes are used for additional exits, they shall be tested and identified as required in Section 9302.3. 9302.2 Smokeproof enclosure. Where a high-rise building has a single, enclosed exit, the enclosure shall be continued to the exterior of the building and the exit shall be smoke-proof by mechanical ventilation in accordance with Section 3310 of the 1982 Seattle Building Code, or shall be mechanically pressurized with fresh air to 0.15 inches water column and shall have a concurrent 2500 cubic feet per minute (CFM) exhaust to atmosphere in an emergency, in accordance with the provisions of the Building Code. Exceptions: 1. Pressurization may be omitted when the building has an approved automatic sprinkler system, all corridor openings are self-closing, all occupied areas have access to a second means of egress or a fire escape and the omission is approved by the chief. 2. A single stair may exit through a building lobby, where the lobby is of noncombustible construction, does not contain combustible furnishings, and is separated from the rest of the building by one-hour fire-resistive construction. Wire-glass protected by sprinklers on both sides may be accepted as one-hour fire-resistive construction. Where the lobby contains no combustible materials, wire-glass need only be protected by sprinklers on the side opposite the lobby. 9302.3 Fire Escapes. Exterior fire escapes shall be accessible and structurally safe at all times. Owners of high-rise buildings shall load test fire escapes at least once every five (5) years with a weight of not less than 100 lb/sq. foot. The results of such a load test shall be submitted in writing to the chief. In lieu of such a test, the chief may accept the opinion of a structural engineer licensed by the State of Washington describing his inspection and/or tests and stating that the fire escape is structurally safe and will support a load of 100 lb/sq. foot. There shall be signs approved by the chief clearly identifying the route of access to the fire escape from every public corridor. Fire escapes which are not maintained structurally safe and not otherwise required by provisions of the Fire Code shall be removed. Locked doors or windows are prohibited between public corridors and fire escapes. Exceptions: Where all of the following criteria are met and approved by the chief: 1. An identified tool or device for opening the locked door or window is permanently affixed in close proximity to the locked point. 2. The area around the locked door or window is served by emergency illumination. 3. Clearly understandable directions indicating the use of the tool and the route to the fire escape are posted at the locked door or window.
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