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2014 Advanced FBC Significant Code Changes Internet- 2014 Florida

Building Code- Fifth Edition

This is an Advanced Building Code Course (1 hour) meeting the requirements of

the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for an

Advanced Florida Building Code Module. This course was developed by BCIC

LLC (Building Codes in Construction).

This course presents the significant code changes from the 2010 Florida Building

Code to the 2014 Florida Building Code- Fifth Edition. The course highlights the

differences and includes base code changes in the 2012 International Building

Code and the Florida specific changes. The course includes as topics changes

to chapters one to sixteen, including changes to chapter four, six, seven, nine

and ten. The Florida Building Code can be viewed at www.floridabuilding.org.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, you will have an understanding of the changes between

the 2010 and 2014 Florida Building Code- Fifth Edition including requirements for

occupancy’s, existing fire protection and roofing.

The Florida Building Commission has adopted the 2012 International Codes as

the base code for the 2014 Florida Building Code- Fifth Edition. The 2012

International Codes are modified by the Commission to incorporate amendments

that have been made to strengthen the Florida Building Code as well as

Declaratory statements and Legislative mandates. The following course

represents the most significant code changes from the 2010 Florida Building

Code to the 2014 Florida Building Code- Fifth Edition. Some of these changes

occurred in the 2012 International Building Code (base code) as well as those

needed for unique conditions related to Florida or to incorporate Commission

initiatives.

The Florida Building Code can be viewed at www.floridabuilding.org

Chapter 1

Administration

Scope

Section 101.2

Excerpt from the FBC

101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction,

alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and

occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or

structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or

structures.

Scope changed in exception as a Florida Modification

Exceptions:

1. Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings

(town houses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a

separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the

Florida Building Code, Residential.

2. Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations or additions or change of

occupancy shall comply with Chapter 34 of this code.

Referenced Codes and Standards

Change in the base code to clarify the scope of the standards referenced in the

code. This clarifies that when there is a conflict between a standard and the

code, the code applies.

Section 102.4


102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced

in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the

prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections

102.4.1 and 102.4.2.

102.4.1 Conflicts. Where differences conflicts occur between provisions of this

code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall

apply.

102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of

the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is

within the scope of this code or the Florida Codes listed in Section 101.4, the

provisions of this code or the Florida Codes listed in Section 101.4, as applicable,

shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.

Chapter 3

Assembly Group A

Section 303.1.3


303.1.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for

assembly purposes that is associated with a Group E occupancy is not

considered a separate occupancy,

Assembly spaces in Group E are no longer separately classified. Group E

requirements specifically delete reference to Chapter 11 from the base code.

Assembly Group A

Section 303.3

A-2 occupancy is expanded to include Casinos and cafeterias and similar dining

facilities (including associated commercial kitchens) with restaurants.


303.3 Assembly Group A-2. Assembly uses intended for food and/or drink

consumption including, but not limited to:

Banquet halls

Casinos (gaming areas)

Nightclubs

Restaurants, cafeterias and similar dining facilities (including associated

commercial kitchens)

Taverns and bars

Institutional Group I

Section 308.3

308.3 Institutional Group I-1. This occupancy shall include buildings, structures

or portions thereof for more than 16 persons who reside 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 in a supervised residential

environment that provides personal care services and receive custodial care. The

persons receiving care are capable of self preservation 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

Halfway houses

Residential board and custodial care facilities

Social rehabilitation facilities

Institutional Group I

Section 308.3- Custodial Care


Newly Defined used in 308.3

CUSTODIAL CARE. Assistance with day-to-day living tasks; such as assistance

with cooking, taking medication, bathing, using toilet facilities and other tasks of

daily living. Custodial care include occupants who evacuate at a slower rate

and/or who have mental and psychiatric complications.

Remember when defined as Custodial Care and when there are five or fewer

persons who meet the definition the classification is R-3, when six to sixteen the

classification is R-4.

Section 308.3.1

Formally added sections and expanded the requirements.


308.3.1 Five or fewer persons receiving care. A facility such as the above with

five or fewer persons receiving such care shall be classified as Group R-3 or

shall comply with the Florida Building Code Residential provided an automatic

sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section

P2904 of the Florida Building Code Residential.

308.3.2 Six to sixteen persons receiving care. A facility such as above,

housing not fewer than six and not more than 16 persons receiving such care,

shall be classified as Group R-4.

This begins a series of changes to I-1, I-2 and R-1 related to small scale medical

care. The first change is one of scope related to age, disability which has been

changed simply to custodial care. The next change states that when there are

five or fewer person they are considered R-3 and six to sixteen- R-4.

Institutional Group 2

Section 308.4

Change to I-2 is this section by removing the terms surgical, psychiatric, nursing

or custodial and adding a 24 hour requirement.


308.4 Institutional Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and

structures used for medical surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a

24-hour basis for more than five persons who are incapable of self -preservation.

This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

Foster care facilities

Detoxification facilities

Hospitals

Nursing homes

Psychiatric hospital


Section 308.4.1

Scope changed to medical care on a 24 hour basis for more than 5 persons, from

surgical, nursing or custodial care. Section added that this use for five or fewer

persons is classified as R-3.


308.4.1 Five or fewer persons receiving care. A facility such as the above with

five or fewer persons receiving such care shall be classified as Group R-3 or

shall comply with the Florida Building Code Residential provided an automatic

sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section

P2904 of the Florida Building Code Residential .

Was 308.3


Section 308.6

Revised section adds/clarifies adult day care and child day care.


308.6 Institutional Group I-4, day care facilities. This group shall include

buildings and structures occupied by more than five persons of any age who

receive custodial care for fewer than 24 hours per day by persons other than

parents or guardians, relatives by blood, marriage or adoption, and in a place

other than the home of the person cared for. This group shall include, but not be

limited to, the following:

Adult day care

Child day care


Section 308.6.2

Revised section clarifies that spaces in religious worship occupancy are

classified as part of the main occupancy.


308.6.2 Within a place of religious worship. Rooms and spaces within places

of religious worship providing such care during religious functions shall be

classified as part of the primary occupancy.


Section 308.6.3

Revised section and clarifies that spaces with five or fewer persons receiving

CUSTODIAL CARE occupancy are classified as part of the main occupancy.


308.6.3 Five or fewer persons receiving care. A facility having five or fewer

persons receiving custodial care shall be classified as part of the primary

occupancy.


Section 308.6.4

Revised section clarifies that spaces with five or fewer persons receiving

CUSTODIAL CARE in a dwelling unit are classified as Group R-3 or they have to

comply with the residential code.


308.6.4 Five or fewer persons receiving care in a dwelling unit.

A facility such as the above within a dwelling unit and having five or fewer

persons receiving custodial care shall be classified as a Group R-3 occupancy or

shall comply with the Florida Building Code, Residential.

Residential Group 3

Section 310.5

Revised section coordinates changes to R-3 scope, strikes adult care and day

care to be consistent with Institutional 4 requirements


310.5 Residential Group R-3. Residential occupancies where the occupants are

primarily permanent in nature and not classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4 or I,

including:

Adult care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any

age for less than 24 hours.

Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling units

Boarding houses (nontransient) with 16 or fewer occupants

Boarding houses (transient) with 10 or fewer occupants

Child Care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any

age for less than 24 hours receiving care

Congregate living facilities (nontransient) with 16 or fewer occupants

Congregate living facilities (transient) with 10 or fewer Occupants

Adult care and child care facilities that are within a single- family home are

permitted to comply with the International Residential Code.

Residential Group 3

Section 310.5.1

Adult care scope removed from section, changes to scope to match change to

Institutional occupancies. Scope for R-3 for “care” facilities permitted when there

is a sprinkler system provided.


310.5.1 Care facilities within a dwelling. Care facilities for five or fewer persons

receiving care that are within a single-family dwelling are permitted to comply

with the Florida Building Code Residential provided an automatic sprinkler

system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 or with Section P2904 of

the Florida Building Code Residential.

Chapter 4

Additional Design Criteria

Section 401.2

These sections have changed. In addition there were changes to meet Florida

specific requirements for Chapter Four. Many of the sections in the 2010 Florida

Building Code were held over from the Standard Building Code in an effort to

retain past importance and to coordinate with the Fire Prevention Code. Based

on a study conducted by BCIC LLC this concept was abandoned by the Florida

Building Commission. There were Multiple Changes to special occupancies. The

Sections were reorganized to match Base Code, sections removed from FBC to

defer to Base Code SECTIONS 425 through 448 are RESERVED.


401.2 Additional design criteria.

401.2.1 Scope. In addition to the provisions of this chapter, the following special

occupancies, standards, requirements and codes shall conform to the following

sections:

Section 449: Hospitals

Section 450: Nursing homes

Section 451: Ambulatory surgical centers

Section 452: Birthing centers

Section 453: State requirements for educational facilities

Section 454: Swimming pools and bathing places

Section 455: Public lodging establishments

Section 456: Public food service establishments

Section 457: Mental health programs

Section 458: Manufactured buildings

Section 459: Boot camps for children

Section 460: Mausoleums and columbariums

Section 461: Transient public lodging establishments

Section 462: Use of asbestos in new public buildings or buildings newly

constructed for lease to government entities–prohibition

Section 463: Adult day care

Section 464: Assisted living facilities

Section 465: Control of radiation hazards

Section 466: Day care occupancies

Section 467: Hospice Inpatient Facilities and Units and Hospice

Residences.

Section 468: Schools, Colleges and Universities

Chapter 30: Elevators and conveying systems

Section 3109: Structures seaward of a coastal construction control line

Section 401.2

Comparison Table

Table of Organizational Changes, 2010- 2014 FBC

Section Subject Was Is

402 Covered Malls 402 Base

403 High Rise 403 Base

404 Atriums 404 Base

405 Underground Bldg. 405 Base

406 Motor Vehicle Related 406 Base

407 Group I-2 407 Base

408 Group I-3 408 Base

409 Projector Rooms 409 Base

410 Stages and Platforms 410 Base

411 Special Amusement Bldg. 411 Base

412 Aircraft Related 412 Base

413 Combustible Storage 413 Base

414 Hazardous Materials 414 Base

415 H1-H5 415 Base

416 Appli-Flammable Finishes 416 Base

417 Drying Rooms 417 Base

418 Organic Coatings 418 Base

419 Live/Work Units 2010 FBC Base

420 Groups I-1- R-1/R-3 419 Base

421 Hydrogen Cut-Off 420 Base

422 Ambulatory Health Care 2010 FBC Base

423 Storm Shelter 2010 FBC Base

424 Children’s Play Structures 2014 Base

424 Swimming Pools and Bathing Places 2010

Note Change

425-448 Reserved

425 Public Lodging 2010 FBC 455- 2014 FBC

426 Public Food Service EST 2010 FBC 456- 2014 FBC

427 Mental Health Programs 2010 FBC 457- 2014 FBC

428 Manufactured Buildings 2010 FBC 458- 2014 FBC

429 Boot Camps for Children 2010 FBC 459- 2014 FBC

430 Mausoleums/Columbarium’s2010 FBC 460- 2014 FBC

431 Transient Public Lodging 2010 FBC 461- 2014 FBC

432 Asbestos in New Buildings 2010 FBC 462- 2014 FBC

433 Adult Day Care 2010 FBC 463- 2014 FBC

434 Assisted Living 2010 FBC 464- 2014 FBC

435 Control of Radiation 2010 FBC 465- 2014 FBC

436 Day Care Occupancies 2010 FBC 466- 2014 FBC

437 Hospice/Inpatient/Hospice 2010 FBC 467- 2014 FBC

438 Live Work Units 2010 FBC 419- Base

439 Groups I-1- R-1/R-3 2010 FBC 420- Base

440 Hydrogen Cut-Off 2010 FBC 421- Base

441 Ambulatory Health Care 2010 FBC 422- Base

442 Storm Shelter 2010 FBC 423- Base

443 Schools/Coll/Universities 2010 FBC 468- 2014 FBC

419 Hospitals 2010 FBC 449- 2014 FBC

420 Nursing Homes 2010 FBC 450- 2014 FBC

421 Ambulatory Surgical Cntrs 2010 FBC 451- 2014 FBC

422 Birthing Centers 2010 FBC 452- 2014 FBC

423 Educational Facilities 2010 FBC 453- 2014 FBC

424 Swimming Pools 2010 FBC 454- 2014 FBC

443 Schools Colleges and University’s 468-2014 FBC

Office Surgery Suite New 469- 2014 FBC

Comparison Table

Office Surgery Suite

Section 469.1

New Section added to reflect requirements for a new “care” section related to

Office Surgery in Florida. Requirements are an addition to the Florida Building

Code and include a number of new sections.


469.1 Scope. An office surgery suite is that portion of a physician’s office where

surgery is performed according to 64B-8-9009 Standard of Care for Office

Surgery. These minimum standards of design and construction apply to a

physician’s office required to register under 64B8-9.0091(1)(a).

Office Surgery Suite

Section 469.1.1


469.1.1 The minimum standards of design, construction and specified minimum

essential utilities and facilities of this section shall be applicable to the all office

surgery suites that are required to be registered but have not yet been registered

with the Florida Department of Health in accordance with Florida Administrative

Code 64B8-9.0091 Requirement for Physician Office Registration; Inspection or

Accreditation, and to all newly constructed office surgery suites, and all additions,

alterations or renovations to all existing office surgery suites on the effective date

of this code.

Through 469.4.14.9 Emergency Electrical Service.

These standards are applicable to office surgery suites that are required to be

registered but have not yet been registered with the Florida Department of Health

in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 64B8-9.0091 Requirement for

Physician Office Registration; Inspection or Accreditation, and to all newly

constructed office surgery suites, and all additions, alterations or renovations to

all existing office surgery suites on the effective date of this code.

An office surgery suite is that portion of a physician’s office where surgery is

performed according to 64B-8-9009 Standard of Care for Office Surgery.

Chapter 5

General Building Height and Area Limitations

Section 503


503.1.4 Basements. A basement of a building shall not count as a story when

applying Table 503 for allowable building height.

Exemption for basements not being counted as story removed for building

height.

Mezzanine Means of Egress

Section 505.2.2

Once again mezzanine requirements have changed. The specific egress

requirements for mezzanines have been removed and the egress requirements

of Chapter 10 are in effect.


505.2.2 Means of egress. The means of egress for mezzanines shall comply

with the applicable provisions of Chapter 10.

Removed- 505.3 Egress. Each occupant of a mezzanine shall have access to at

least two independent means of egress where the common path of egress travel

exceeds the limitations of Section 1014.3. Where a stairway provides a means of

exit access from a mezzanine, the maximum travel distance includes the

distance traveled on the stairway measured in the plane of the tread nosing.

Accessible means of egress shall be provided in accordance with Section 1007.

505.2.2 refers egress requirements for mezzanines to Chapter 10.

Frontage Increase

Section 506.2


506.2 Frontage increase. Every building shall adjoin or have access to a public

way to receive a building area increase for frontage. Where a building has more

than 25 percent of its perimeter on a public way or open space having a width of

not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), the frontage increase shall be determined in

accordance with Equation 5-2:

If = [F / P - 0.25]W / 30

where:

If = Area increase due to frontage.

F = Building perimeter that fronts on a public way or open space having 20

feet (6096 mm) open minimum width (feet).

P = Perimeter of entire building (feet).

W = Width of public way or open space (feet) in accordance with Section

506.2.1.

Lead into change to section 506.2.1---Calculation of W= width of pubic way.

Revised, allowable building areas can be increased based on the extent the

buildings facades (frontage) are facing open spaces and public ways. 506.2 has

not changed, but the changes take place in 506.2.1. The methods for

determining the width of the open space and the averaging of the width have

been clarified.

Frontage Increase

Section 506.2.1


506.2.1 Width limits. To apply this section the value of W shall be not less than

20 feet (6096 mm). Where the value of W varies along the perimeter of the

building, the calculation performed in accordance with Equation 5-2 shall be

based on the weighted average of each portion of exterior wall and open space

where the value of W is greater than or equal to 20 feet (6096 mm) shall be

based on the weighted average calculated in accordance with Equation 5-3 for

portions of the exterior perimeter walls Wwhere the value of W is greater than or

equal to 20 30 feet (6096 mm).

Section changed to make clear that the application of the section is for the value

of W (weighted average). The weighted average is calculated where the value of

W is greater than 30 feet, where in the 2010 FBC it was 20 feet.

Frontage Increase

Section 506.2.1


To apply this section the value of W shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). Where the value of W varies along the perimeter of the building, the calculation performed in accordance with Equation 5-2 shall be based on the weighted average calculated in accordance with Equation 5-3 for portions of the exterior perimeter walls where the value of W is greater than or equal to 20 feet (6096 mm).Where the value of W is greater than 30 feet (9144 mm), a value of 30 feet (9144 mm) shall be used in calculating the weighted average, regardless of the actual width of the open space. W shall be measured the exterior face of a building to the exterior face of an opposing building, as applicable perpendicular from the face of the building to the closest interior lot line. Where the building fronts on a public way, the entire width of the public way shall be used. Where two or more buildings are on the same lot, W shall be measured from the exterior face of each building to the opposing exterior face of each adjacent building, as applicable. Weighted average W = (L1 x w1 + L2 x w2 + L3 x w3…)/F.

Clarification that W is measured perpendicular to the face of the building to an

interior lot line or opposing exterior wall.

Frontage Increase

Section 506.2.1 Equation


(Equation 5-3)

where:

Ln = Length of a portion of the exterior perimeter wall.

wn = Width of open space associated with that portion of the exterior perimeter

wall.

F = Building perimeter that fronts on a public way or open space having a width

of 20 feet (6096 mm) or more.

Exception: The value of W divided by 30 shall be permitted to be a maximum of

2 when the building meets all requirements of Section 507 except for compliance

with the 60-foot (18 288 mm) public way or yard requirement, as applicable.

Where the building meets the requirements of Section 507, as applicable, except

for compliance with the 60-foot (18 288 mm) public way or yard requirement, and

the value of W is greater than 30 feet (9144 mm), the value of W divided by 30

shall be limited to a maximum of 2.

Changes to the equations include definitions and a maximum where building

meet the sections for unlimited area, the value of W when divided by 30 is limited

to 2.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.1

Section changed in to clarify which incidental uses need to be separated per

Table 509. Changes to these sections were made to clarify the concept of

incidental use by eliminating the previous relationship with the mixed-occupancy

provisions. While many of the provisions regulating incidental uses parallel those

of accessory uses, incidental uses are not distinct occupancies but are often

support spaces for the primary occupancy.


509.1 General Incidental uses located within single occupancy or mixed

occupancy buildings shall comply with the provisions of this section. Incidental

uses are ancillary functions associated with a given occupancy that generally

pose a greater level of risk to that occupancy and are limited to those uses listed

in Table 509.

508.2.5 Separation of incidental accessory occupancies. The incidental

accessory occupancies listed in Table 508.2.5 shall be separated from the

remainder of the building or equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing

system, or both, in accordance with Table 508.2.5.

Exception: Incidental uses within and serving a dwelling unit are not required to

comply with this section.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.2

Change that clarifies that uses which are incidental are not required to be

separate occupancies.


509.2 Occupancy classification. Incidental uses shall not be individually

classified in accordance with Section 302.1. Incidental uses shall be included in

the building occupancies within which they are located.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.3

Change that clarifies that incidental uses cannot exceed 10 percent of the

building area of a story.


509.3 Area limitations. Incidental uses shall not occupy more than 10 percent of

the building area of the story in which they are located.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.4


509.4 Separation and protection. The incidental uses listed in Table 509 shall

be separated from the remainder of the building or equipped with an automatic

sprinkler system, or both, in accordance with the provisions of that table.

Change that clarifies that when to separate incidental uses from the primary use.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.4.1

Change that requires walls used for separation of incidental uses need to be fire

barriers. Construction supporting 1-hour fire barriers or horizontal assemblies

used for incidental use separations in buildings of Type IIB, IIIB and VB

construction is not required to be fire-resistance rated unless required by other

sections of this code.


509.4.1 Separation. Where Table 509 specifies a fire resistance- rated

separation, the incidental uses shall be separated from the remainder of the

building by a fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 or a

horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

Construction supporting 1-hour fire barriers or horizontal assemblies used for

incidental use separations in buildings of Type IIB, IIIB and VB construction is not

required to be fire-resistance rated unless required by other sections of this code.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.4.2

Change that details construction of separation walls when not required to be fire

barriers.


509.4.2 Protection. Where Table 509 permits an automatic sprinkler system

without a fire barrier, the incidental uses shall be separated from the remainder of

the building by construction capable of resisting the passage of smoke. The walls

shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor assembly below to the

underside of the ceiling that is a component of a fire-resistance-rated floor

assembly or roof assembly above or to the underside of the floor or roof

sheathing, deck or slab above. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon

detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3. Doors shall not have

air transfer openings and shall not be undercut in excess of the clearance

permitted in accordance with NFPA 80.

Walls surrounding the incidental use shall not have air transfer openings unless

provided with smoke dampers in accordance with Section 710.7.

Incidental Uses

Section 509.4.2.1


509.4.2.1 Protection limitation. Except as specified in Table 509 for certain

incidental uses, where an automatic sprinkler system is provided in accordance

with Table 509, only the space occupied by the incidental use need be equipped

with such a system.

Change in that clarifies that generally when a sprinkler system is required for

some incidental uses the system is only required within the incidental space.

Special Provisions

Section 510.9


510.9 Multiple buildings above a horizontal assembly. Where two or more

buildings are provided above the horizontal assembly separating a Group S-2

parking garage or building below from the buildings above in accordance with the

special provisions in Sections 510.2, 510.3 or 510.8, the buildings above the

horizontal assembly shall be regarded as separate and distinct buildings from

each other and shall comply with all other provisions of this code as applicable to

each separate and distinct building.

New section provides that “buildings” above an S-2 parking garage are treated

as separate and distinct.

Chapter 7

Projections

Section 705.2

Code change simplifies the distance requirement for projections. In the 2010

code you would meet one of three exceptions, this is now controlled by a simple

table. In addition other changes have been to the sections on combustible

projections and distances for projections from lot lines.


705.2 Projections. Cornices, eave overhangs, exterior balconies and similar

projections extending beyond the exterior wall shall conform to the requirements

of this section and Section 1406. Exterior egress balconies and exterior exit

stairways and ramps shall also comply with Sections 1019 and 1026,

respectively. Projections shall not extend beyond the distance determined by the

following three methods whichever results in the lesser projection: any closer to

the line used to determine the fire separation distance than shown in Table

705.2.

1. A point one-third the distance from the exterior face of the wall to the lot line

where protected openings or a combination of protected and unprotected

openings are required in the exterior wall.

2. A point one-half the distance from the exterior face of the wall to the lot line

where all openings in the exterior wall are permitted to be unprotected or the

building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed

under the provisions of Section 705.8.2.

3. More than 12 inches (305 mm) into areas where openings are prohibited.

Buildings on the same lot and considered as portions of one building in

accordance with Section 705.3 are not required to comply with this section.

Projections

Table 705.2


Projections

Section 705.2.3

Change to projections requirement requiring projections that come within 5 feet

of a fire separation line, to be one hour rated.

Clarifies when combustible projections can occur.


705.2.3 Combustible projections. Combustible projections located where

openings are not permitted or where protection of openings is required extending

to within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the line used to determine the fire separation

distance, or located where openings are not permitted, or where protection of

some openings is required shall be of at least 1-hour fire-resistance- rated

construction, Type IV construction, fire-retardant- treated wood or as required by

Section 1406.3.

Exception: Type VB construction shall be allowed for combustible projections in

Group R-3 and U occupancies with a fire separation distance greater than or

equal to 5 feet (1524 mm).

705.3 Buildings on the same lot.

For the purposes of determining the required wall and opening protection,

projections and roof-covering requirements, buildings on the same lot shall be

assumed to have an imaginary line between them.

Projections added as a consideration for protection as a function of distance from

a property line.

Fire Walls

Section 706.2

Alternate added for fire wall construction to allow double walls in accord with

NFPA 221


706.2 Structural stability.

Fire walls shall have sufficient structural stability under fire conditions to allow

collapse of construction on either side without collapse of the wall for the duration

of time indicated by the required fire-resistance rating or shall be constructed as

double fire walls in accordance with NFPA 221.

Fire Partitions

Section 708.1

Fire Partitions for tenants which was a Florida specific amendment in the 2010

FBC removed.


708.1 General. The following wall assemblies shall comply with this section.

1. Walls separating dwelling units in the same building as required by Section

420.2.

2. Walls separating sleeping units in the same building as required by Section

420.2.

3. Walls separating tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings as required

by Section 402.4.2.1.

4. Corridor walls as required by Section 1018.1.

5. Elevator lobby separation as required by Section 713.14.1.

6. Walls separating individual tenant spaces.

Exceptions:

1. In Group B and S occupancies, walls used to separate tenants shall not be

required to have a fire-resistance rating, provided no area between fire partitions

having a 1-hour fire-resistance rating exceeds 3,000 square feet (279 m2).

2. In aircraft hangar occupancies, walls used to separate tenants shall not be

required to have a fire-resistance rating, provided the aircraft hanger is

constructed in accordance with the requirements of Section 412.2.

3. In mini-warehouses/self-storage buildings, walls used to separate tenants shall

not be required to have fire-resistance rating, provided a sprinkler system

meeting the requirements of Ordinary Hazard Group II as defined by NFPA 13, is

installed employing quick response heads.

Sections renumbered from 709.1 to 708.1, Florida specific sub-section six and

exceptions removed.

Smoke Barriers

Section 709.4


709.4 Continuity. Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane continuous

from outside wall to outside wall and from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling

assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab

above, including continuity through concealed spaces, such as those found

above suspended ceilings, and interstitial structural and mechanical spaces. The

supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance

rating of the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type IIB, IIIB or VB

construction.

Exceptions:

1. Smoke-barrier walls are not required in interstitial spaces where such spaces

are designed and constructed with ceilings that provide resistance to the

passage of fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the smoke-barrier walls.

2. Smoke barriers used for elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3,

3007.4.2 or 3008.11.2 are not required to extend from outside wall to outside

wall.

3. Smoke barriers used for areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1007 are

not required to extend from outside wall to outside wall.

Added exceptions in the 2012 FBC for elevator lobbies and areas of refuge that

do not require the enclosing smoke barriers to extend to the exterior walls.

Vertical Openings

Section 712.1


SECTION 708 712

SHAFT ENCLOSURES

708.1 712.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to the vertical

opening applications listed in Sections 712.1.1 through 712.1.18. shafts required

to protect openings and penetrations through floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling

assemblies. Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fi re barriers in accordance

with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies in accordance with Section 712, or

both.

708.2 Shaft Enclosure Required. Openings through a floor ceiling assembly

shall be protected by a shaft enclosure complying with this section.

Exceptions: (Exceptions 1 through 16 have been reformatted as

Sections 712.1.2 through 712.1.18 with limited editorial changes.)

Shaft enclosure requirements modified and reformatted.

712.1.1 Shaft Enclosures. Vertical openings contained entirely within a shaft

enclosure complying with Section 713 shall be permitted.

Chapter 7 reformatting changes the emphasis on vertical openings rather than

on shaft enclosures. Shaft enclosures are one of many acceptable protective

measures that can be utilized to address the hazards related to vertical

openings.

Shaft Enclosures

Section 713.1

Shaft enclosure requirements revised from 2010 FBC Sections 708 to 713.


713.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to shafts

required to protect openings and penetrations through floor/ceiling and

roof/ceiling assemblies. Exit access stairways and exit access ramps shall be

protected in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 1009. Interior

exit stairways and interior exit ramps shall be protected in accordance with the

requirements of Section 1022.

Shaft Enclosures

Section 713.2


713.2 Construction. Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fire barriers in

accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies in accordance with

Section 711, or both.

With the reformatting of the code there is a need to separate out from the general

requirement of protecting vertical openings, and identifying the use of shaft

enclosures.

Termination Room

Section 713.4

Revises section number and increases the rating of walls in termination rooms from ¾ hour to that equal of the shaft. Excerpt from the FBC 708.13.4 713.13.4 Termination Room. Refuse, recycling, and laundry chutes

shall discharge into an enclosed room separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fi re barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings into the termination room shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than ¾ hour equal to the protection required for the shaft enclosure. Openings into the termination room shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating equal to the protection required for the shaft enclosure. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon the detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3. Refuse chutes shall not terminate in an incinerator room. Refuse, recycling and laundry rooms that are not provided with chutes need only comply with Table 509. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing upon the detection of smoke in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3. Refuse chutes shall not terminate in an incinerator room. Refuse, recycling, and laundry rooms that are not provided with chutes need only comply with Table 509.

Penetrations

Section 714.4.1.2

Section on membrane penetrations that are part of a horizontal assemblies

retitled and exception six and seven added. The new exception allows the ceiling

membrane of a 1-hour or 2-hour fire rated floor/ ceiling or roof/ceiling assembly to

be interrupted by a double wood top plate of a fire-resistance-rated wall.


713.4.1.2 714.4.1.2 Membrane penetrations. Penetrations of membranes that

are part of a horizontal assembly shall comply with Section 714.4.1.1.1 or

714.4.1.1.2. Where floor/ceiling assemblies are required to have a fire resistance

rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance

will not be reduced.

6. Noncombustible items that are cast into concrete building elements and that

do not penetrate both top and bottom surfaces of the element.

7. The ceiling membrane of 1- and 2-hour fire resistance- rated horizontal

assemblies is permitted to be interrupted with the double wood top plate of a fire-

resistance-rated wall assembly, provided that all penetrating items through the

double top plates are protected in accordance with Section 714.4.1.1.1 or

714.4.1.1.2. The fire-resistance rating of the wall shall not be less than the rating

of the horizontal assembly.

Through-Penetration Firestop Systems

Section 714.4.1.1.2

A second exception added to the requirement for T ratings now allows floor

penetrations of horizontal assemblies due to the presence of floor, tub, and

shower drains to be provided with only an F rating.


714.4.1.1.2 Through-penetration firestop system.

Through penetrations shall be protected by an approved through-penetration

firestop system installed and tested in accordance with ASTM E 814 or UL 1479,

with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa). The

system shall have an F rating/T rating of not less than 1 hour but not less than

the required rating of the floor penetrated.

Exceptions:

1. Floor penetrations contained and located within the cavity of a wall above the

floor or below the floor do not require a T rating.

2. Floor penetrations by floor drains, tub drains or shower drains contained and

located within the concealed space of a horizontal assembly do not require a T

rating.

Through penetrations are permitted in a horizontal assembly where such

penetrations are protected

Penetrations in Smoke Barriers

Section 714.5

An “L” rating identifying the air leakage rating newly defined in Chapter 2—is now

mandated for penetration firestop systems and fire-resistant joint systems that

are utilized in smoke barrier construction.


202 Definitions.

L RATING. The air leakage rating of a through-penetration firestop system or a fi

re-resistant joint system when tested in accordance with UL 1479 or UL 2079,

respectively.

713.5 714.5 Penetrations in Smoke Barriers. Penetrations in smoke barriers

shall be protected by approved through-penetration firestop systems installed

and tested in accordance with the requirements of UL 1479 for air leakage. The

air leakage rate L rating of the penetration assemblies system measured at 0.30

inch (7.47 Pa) of water in both the ambient temperature and elevated

temperature tests, shall not exceed:

Penetrations in Smoke Barriers

Section 716.3


202 Definitions.

Fire-Rated Glazing. Glazing with either a fire protection rating or a fire

resistance rating.

716.3 Marking fire-rated glazing assemblies. Fire-rated glazing assemblies

shall be marked in accordance with Tables 716.3, 716.5, and 716.6.

716.3.1 Fire-rated glazing that exceeds the code requirements. Fire-rated

glazing assemblies marked as complying with hose stream requirements (H)

shall be permitted in applications that do not require compliance with hose

stream requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked as complying with

temperature rise requirements (T) shall be permitted in applications that do not

require compliance with temperature rise requirements. Fire-rated glazing

assemblies marked with ratings (XXX) that exceed the ratings required by this

code shall be permitted.

New Section. A definition of “firerated glazing” has been added to Chapter 2 that

encompasses fire-resistance-rated glazing and fire-protection-rated glazing. Fire-

resistance-rated glazing is tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 as a

wall assembly. Fire-protection-rated glazing, is tested in accordance with NFPA

257 or UL 9 as an opening protective.

Chapter Nine

THE SECTIONS LISTED BELOW HAVE RELOCATED TO CHAPTER 9

2012 Code Section 2010 Code Section

909.21 Elevator hoistway

pressurization alternative

708.14.2

909.21.1 Pressurization requirements 708.14.2.1

909.21.2 Rational analysis 708.14.2.2

909.21.3 Ducts for system 708.14.2.3

909.21.4 Fan system 708.14.2.4

909.21.4.1 Fire resistance 708.14.2.4.1

909.21.4.2 Smoke detection 708.14.2.4.2

909.21.4.3 Separate systems 708.14.2.4.3

909.21.4.4 Fan capacity 708.14.2.4.4

909.21.5 Standby power 708.14.2.5

909.21.6 Activation of pressurization

system

708.14.2.6

909.21.7 Special inspection 708.14.2.7

909.21.8 Marking and identification 708.14.2.8

909.21.9 Control diagrams 708.14.2.9

909.21.10 Control panel 708.14.2.10

909.21.11 System response time 708.14.2.11

Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Section 903.2.11.3


903.2.11.3 Buildings over 55 feet in height. Buildings three stories or more

in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings

with a floor level having an occupant load of 30 or more that is located 55 feet

(16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

Any building which is of three stories or more in height shall be equipped with an

approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.1.

Exceptions:

1. Airport control towers. Single- and two-family dwellings.

2. Open parking structures. A stand-alone parking garage constructed with

noncombustible materials, the design of which is such that all levels of the

garage are uniformly open to the atmosphere on all sides with the percentages of

openings equal to or greater than those specified in Section 406.3. Such garages

shall be separated from any other structure by not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

A stand-alone parking garage is one that is solely for the parking of vehicles and

does not have any other occupancy group in the building.

3. Occupancies in Group F-2. Telecommunication spaces located within

telecommunication buildings, if the spaces are equipped to meet an equivalent

fire prevention standard approved by both the Florida Building Commission and

the State Fire Marshal.

4.Telecommunications spaces within telecommunication buildings, if the

telecommunications space is equipped with:

4.1. Air sampling smoke detection.

4.2. Remote, proprietary or central station fire alarm monitoring.

4.3. Automatic smoke exhaust system.

4.4. One-hour fire-resistance wall separating the telecommunications space from

the adjacent areas on the same floor.

4.5. Two-hour floor/ceiling assembly separating the telecommunications space

from adjacent floors.

4.6. All other portions ancillary to the telecommunications equipment area shall

be provided with fire sprinkler protection.

5.Sprinkler systems installed solely as a requirement of Section 903.62.11.3 may

be a NFPA 13R or NFPA 13D system in accordance with their scopes.

Florida Specific change to Section 903.2.11.3 - no change in requirements from

the 2010 FBC.

Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Section 903.2.11.3.1


903.2.11.3.1 NFPA 101 as adopted by Florida Fire Prevention Code, as

regarding the requirements for fire protection sprinklers, is applicable to all

multiple-family residential buildings, whether designated as townhouses,

condominiums, apartment houses, tenements, garden apartments or by any

other name. The attorney general has determined that for the purpose of the fire

protection sprinkler requirements in Section 553.895(2), Florida Statutes,

townhouses that are three or more stories tall and consist of three or more units

together are multiple-family dwellings. Therefore, these types of townhouses are

not exempt from being considered for the requirements to provide fire protection

sprinklers (even if there are any other definitions that define a townhouse as a

single-family residence). When determining whether townhouses require fire

protection sprinkler systems, the building official must consider in parallel: (a) the

attorney general’s opinion defining the statutory language for townhouses; (b) the

building code requirements, including all life-safety chapters, that provide

additional determining criteria, such as construction types, fire-resistance, fire

protection systems and egress; and (c) the NFPA 101 as adopted by Florida Fire

Prevention Code, egress and protection determining criteria. The more restrictive

criteria are then applied.

Florida Specific change to Section 903.2.11.3- no change in the requirements

from 2010 FBC.

Carbon Monoxide Protection

Section 908


908.7 Carbon monoxide alarms. Group I or R occupancies located in a building

containing a fuel-burning appliance or in a building which has an attached garage

shall be equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms. The carbon

monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and be installed and

maintained in accordance with NFPA 720 and the manufacturer’s instructions. An

open parking garage, as defined in Chapter 2, or an enclosed parking garage

ventilated in accordance with Section 404 of the International Mechanical Code

shall not be considered an attached garage.

Carbon monoxide protection. Every separate building or an addition to an

existing building for which a permit for new construction is issued and having a

fossil-fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, an attached garage, or other

feature, fixture, or element that emits carbon monoxide as a byproduct of

combustion shall have an operational carbon monoxide alarm installed within 10

feet of each room used for sleeping purposes in the new building or addition, or

at such other locations as required by this Code.

Exception: Sleeping units or dwelling units which do not themselves contain a

fuel-burning appliance or have an attached garage, but which are located in a

building with a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage, need not be

equipped with single-station carbon monoxide alarms provided that:

1. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is located more than one story above or

below any story which contains a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage;

2. The sleeping unit or dwelling unit is not connected by duct work or ventilation

shafts to any room containing a fuel-burning appliance or to an attached garage;

and

3. The building is equipped with a common area carbon monoxide alarm system.


from 2010 FBC. Moved from section 916.

Carbon Monoxide Protection

Section 908.7.1


908.7.1 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon monoxide detection

systems, which include carbon monoxide detectors and audible notification

appliances, installed and maintained in accordance with this section for carbon

monoxide alarms and NFPA 720 shall be permitted. The carbon monoxide

detectors shall be listed as complying with UL 2075. 916.1.1

Carbon monoxide alarm. The requirements of Section 908.7 shall be satisfied

by providing for one of the following alarm installations:

1. A hard-wired carbon monoxide alarm.

2. A battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm.

3. A hard-wired combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarm.

4. A battery-powered combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarm.


from 2010 FBC. Moved from section 916

Combination Alarms

Section 908.7.2


908.7.2 Combination alarms. Combination smoke/carbon monoxide alarms

shall be listed and labeled by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory.

Exceptions:

1. An approved operational carbon monoxide detector shall be installed inside or

directly outside of each room or area within a hospital, inpatient hospice facility or

nursing home facility licensed by the Agency for Health Care Administration, or a

new state correctional institution where a fossil-fuel burning heater, engine, or

appliance is located. The carbon monoxide detector shall be connected to the

fire-alarm system of the hospital, inpatient hospice facility, or nursing home

facility as a supervisory signal.

2. This section shall not apply to existing buildings that are undergoing alterations

or repair unless the alteration is an addition as defined in Section 908.7.3

916.1.3.

908.7.3 Addition shall mean an extension or increase in floor area, number of

stories or height of a building or structure.


from 2010 FBC. Moved from section 916.

Single and Multiple smoke alarms

Section 907.2.11

The addition of the Group I-1 occupancy classification helps coordinate

provisions. The use of listed wireless smoke alarms are now permitted to

substitute for wired interconnection of the smoke alarms in both new and existing

construction.


907.2.11.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to

be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, R-2,

R-3 or R-4 R or I-1 occupancies, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in

such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in

the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be

required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon

activation of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over

background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.

Chapter 10

Reorganized

Chapter Ten has been reorganized.

Design Occupant Load

Section 1004.1

New sections that details requirements for calculation of occupant load.


1004.1 Design occupant load.

In determining means of egress requirements, the number of occupants for

whom means of egress facilities shall be provided shall be determined in

accordance with this section.

1004.1.1 Cumulative occupant loads.

Where the path of egress travel includes intervening rooms, areas or spaces,

cumulative occupant loads shall be determined in accordance with this section.

1004.1.1.1 Intervening spaces.

Where occupants egress from one room, area or space through another, the

design occupant load shall be based on the cumulative occupant loads of all

rooms, areas or spaces to that point along the path of egress travel.

1004.1.1.2 Adjacent levels.

The occupant load of a mezzanine or story with egress through a room, area or

space on an adjacent level shall be added to the occupant load of that room,

area or space.

Means of Egress Sizing

Section 1005.1


1005.1 General. All portions of the means of egress system shall be sized in

accordance with this section. Exception: Means of egress complying with

Section 1028.

The following sections show the changes made in the code. Reorganized and

clarified the multiple requirements related to egress width that were previously

contained in a single paragraph in Section 1005.1. Also, the related provisions

from Sections 1004.4 and 1004.5 have been relocated to a more logical location

with the other egress width/capacity provisions. Reduced exit width factors have

been established for sprinklered buildings provided with an emergency

voice/alarm communication system, and the exit width/capacity requirements are

now presented in a more logical and organized layout.

Minimum Component Width

Section 1005.2

New Section specifies that width components are found elsewhere in the code.


1005.2 Minimum Width Based on Component. The minimum width, in inches,

of any means of egress components shall not be less than that specified for such

component elsewhere in this code.

Capacity based on Occupant Load

Section 1005.3

Section details the requirements for capacity sizing.


1005.3 Required Capacity Based on Occupant Load. The required capacity, in

inches, of the means of egress for any room, area, space, or story shall not be

less than that determined in accordance with Sections 1005.3.1 and 1005.3.2:

Means of Egress Sizing

Section 1005.1

Reduced exit width factors have been established for sprinklered buildings

provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system, and the exit

width/capacity requirements are now presented in a more logical and organized

layout.


1005.3.1 Stairways. The capacity, in inches, of means of egress stairways shall

be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairway by a

means of egress capacity factor of 0.3 inches (7.62 mm) per occupant. Where

stairways serve more than one story, only the occupant load of each story

considered individually shall be used in calculating the required capacity of the

stairways serving that story.

Exception: For other than Group H and I-2 occupancies, the capacity, in inches,

of means of egress stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load

served by such stairway by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.2 inches (5.1

mm) per occupant in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler

system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and an

emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section

907.5.2.2.

Accessible Means of Egress

Section 1007.2

Florida Specific code change that removes Accessibility requirements and

reserves these sections in favor of the Florida specific requirements.


Change Section 1007.2 to read as shown:

1007.2 Continuity and components. Reserved.


1007.3 Stairways. Reserved.


1007.4 Elevators. Reserved.


1007.5 Platform lifts. Reserved.


1007.6 Areas of refuge. Reserved.


1007.7 Exterior area for assisted rescue. Reserved.


1007.8 Two-way communication. Reserved.


1007.9 Signage.Reserved.


1007.10 Directional signage. Reserved.


1007.11 Instructions. Reserved.

Doors, Gates and Turnstiles

Section 1008


1008.1.4.5 Protection devices for emergency escape and rescue openings.

The temporary installation or closure of storm shutters, panels and other

approved hurricane protection devices shall be permitted on emergency escape

and rescue openings in Group R occupancies during the threat of a storm. Such

devices shall not be required to comply with the operational constraints of

Section 1029.4. While such protection is provided, at least one means of escape

from the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be provided. The means of escape shall

be within the first floor of the dwelling or dwelling unit and shall not be located

within a garage without a side hinged door leading directly to the exterior.

Occupants in any part of the dwelling or dwelling unit shall be able to access the

means of escape without passing through a lockable door not under their control

Florida Specific Addition to the Code.

Doors, Gates and Turnstiles

Section 1008.1.7


1008.1.7 Thresholds. Thresholds at doorways shall not exceed 3/4 inch (19.1

mm) in height above the finished floor or landing for sliding doors serving

dwelling units or 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) above the finished floor or landing for other

doors. Raised thresholds and floor level changes greater than 1/4 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).

Exceptions: In occupancy Group R-2 or R-3, threshold heights for sliding and

side-hinged exterior doors shall be permitted to be up to 73/4 inches (197 mm) in

height if all of the following apply:

1. The door is not part of the required means of egress. The threshold height

shall be limited to 73/4 inches (197 mm) where the occupancy is Group R-2; the

door is an exterior door that is not a component of the required means of egress

and the doorway is not on an accessible route. In one- and two-family dwellings

where the door discharges to the outside or to an exterior balcony or exterior exit

access, the floor level outside the door shall be permitted to be one step lower

than the inside, but not more than 8 inches (203 mm) lower.

2. The door is not part of an accessible route as required by Chapter 11. For

exterior doors serving dwelling units, thresholds at doorways shall not exceed the

height required to pass the water resistance test of ANSI/AAMA/WDMA

101/I.S.2, or TAS 202 for high-velocity hurricane zones, or the maximum

allowable height difference between interior floor levels. Exterior floor level shall

comply with the following:

3. The door is not part of an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit.

Florida Specific Addition to the Code.

Stairways

Section 1009.1


1009.1 General. Stairways serving occupied portions of a building shall comply

with the requirements of this section.

1009.2 Interior exit stairways. Interior exit stairways shall lead directly to the

exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an

exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1023, except as

permitted in Section 1027.1.

1009.2.1 Where required. Interior exit stairways shall be included, as necessary,

to meet one or more means of egress design requirements, such as required

number of exits or exit access travel distance.

202, 1009, 1010

Revisions have been made throughout the code to coordinate the provisions for

unenclosed interior stairways and ramps that can be used as a portion of the

means of egress.

Stairway Enclosure

Section 1009.2.2


1009.2.2 Enclosure. All interior exit stairways shall be enclosed in accordance

with the provisions of Section 1022.

Added requirements to coordinate with the exit access travel distance and

numbers of exits. Interior exit stairways are required to be enclosed in

accordance with Section 1022. Requirements are coordinated with exit access

travel distance and number of exits.

Exit Access Stairways

Section 1009.3

Although generally considered as a clarification of existing requirements, the

multiple changes regarding interior stairways and ramps will provide for

consistent application of the code requirements.

Because so many code sections are affected by this change, including revisions

of some of the basic means of egress terminology, it is important that code users

are aware of the revisions even if they do not result in major technical changes.

Historically, the code has allowed the limited use of unenclosed exit stairs in a

manner that has resulted in inconsistent interpretations. During previous code

development cycles, numerous code changes were submitted, with some

incorporated into the code, in order to clarify the intent and application of specific

provisions. This new revision is considered as a comprehensive change that

addresses the entire egress system and how unenclosed stairs affect issues

such as exit versus exit access, travel distance measurements, contribution to

the minimum number of required exits, etc.

The new and revised definitions and those sections that were revised within the

code are based on the following concepts:

• All stairs within a building are elements of the means of egress system and

must comply with Chapter 10.

• Unenclosed stairways are not considered as an exit.

• All exit stairways, to qualify as exits, must be enclosed with a fire-resistance-

rated enclosure consisting of exit stair shafts and passageways based on the

previous exit enclosure provisions.

• All stairways that are permitted to be open, or are not required stairways for

egress purposes, are exit access stairways.

• Exit access stairways must be enclosed with fire-resistance-rated enclosures

based on shaft provisions or may be open in accordance with exceptions based

on the previous code exceptions.

• Exit access travel distance is measured from an entrance to an exit.

• Exit access travel distance includes the travel distance on an exit access

stairway.

• Entrances to exits on each story are not mandatory and access to exits on

other stories is permissible within certain limitations.


1009.3 Exit access stairways. Floor openings between stories created by exit

access stairways shall be enclosed.

Exceptions:

1. In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, exit access stairways that serve,

or atmospherically communicate between, only two stories are not required to be

enclosed.

2. Exit access 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.

3. In buildings with only Group B or M occupancies, exit access stairway

openings are not required to be enclosed provided that the building is equipped

throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section

903.3.1.1, the area of the floor opening between stories does not exceed twice

the horizontal projected area of the exit access stairway, and the opening is

protected by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with

NFPA 13.

4. In other than Group B and M occupancies, exit access stairway openings are

not required to be enclosed provided that the building is equipped throughout

with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the

floor opening does not connect more than four stories, the area of the floor

opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of

the exit access stairway, and the opening is protected by a draft curtain and

closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13.

5. Exit access stairways within an atrium complying with the provisions of Section

404 are not required to be enclosed.

6. Exit access stairways and ramps in open parking garages that serve only the

parking garage are not required to be enclosed.

7. Stairways serving outdoor facilities where all portions of the means of egress

are essentially open to the outside are not required to be enclosed.

8. Exit access stairways serving stages, platforms and technical production areas

in accordance with Sections 410.6.2 and 410.6.3 are not required to be enclosed.

9. Stairways are permitted to be open between the balcony, gallery or press box

and the main assembly floor in occupancies such as theaters, places of religious

worship, auditoriums and sports facilities.

10. In Group I-3 occupancies, exit access stairways constructed in accordance

with Section 408.5 are not required to be enclosed.

Floor Level Exit Signs

Section 1011.2

Where general-use exit signs are required in Group R-1 occupancies, the code

requires low-level exit signs must also be provided in the means of egress

serving the guest rooms.


1011.2 Floor-Level Exit Signs in Group R-1. Where exit signs are required in

Group R-1 occupancies by Section 1011.1, additional low-level exit signs shall be

provided in all areas serving guest rooms in Group R-1 occupancies and shall

comply with Section 1011.5.

The bottom of the sign shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm) nor more than

12 inches (305 mm) above the fl oor level. The sign shall be flush mounted to the

door or wall. Where mounted on the wall, the edge of the sign shall be within 4

inches (102 mm) of the door frame on the latch side.

Handrail Height

Section 1012.2

The code now allows transition pieces of a continuous handrail to exceed the

maximum permitted handrail height. The handrail height can exceed the

maximum height for continuous transitions between flights and in Group R-3 and

dwelling units in Group R-2 for transitions at winder treads, from handrail to

guard, or at the start of a flight.


1012.2 Height. Handrail height, measured above stair tread nosings, or finish

surface of ramp slope, shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and

not more than 38 inches (965 mm). Handrail height of alternating tread devices

and ship ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than

30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).

Exceptions:

1. When handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition

between flights, the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed the

maximum height.

2. In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies;

and in Group U occupancies that are associated with a Group R-3 occupancy or

associated with individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; when

handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between

flights, transition at winder treads, transition from handrail to guard, or when used

at the start of a flight, the handrail height at the fittings or bendings shall be

permitted to exceed the maximum height.

Handrail Graspability

Section 1012.3.1

A minimum cross-section dimension has now been established in the code for

the graspability of noncircular Type I handrails.


1012.3.1 Type I. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside

diameter of at least 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm).

Where the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least

4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) with a maximum

cross-sectional dimension of 2 1/4 inches (57 mm) and minimum cross-sectional

dimension of 1inch (25 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch

(0.25 mm).

Guards

Section 1013.1-1013.8

The guard requirements for operable windows having a sill height more than 72

inches above the finished grade have been relocated from Chapter 14 to the

general guard provisions of Chapter 10 and the minimum window sill height at

which a guard is not required has been increased from 24 inches to 36 inches.


1013.1 General. Guards shall comply with the provisions of Sections 1013.2

through 1013.7. Operable windows with sills located more than 72 inches (1.83

m) above finished grade or other surface below shall comply with Section 1013.8.

1013.8 1405.13.2 Window sills. In Occupancy Groups R-2 and R-3, one- and

two-family and multiple-family dwellings, where the opening of the sill portion of

an operable window is located more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the

finished grade or other surface below, the lowest part of the clear opening of the

window shall be at a height not less than 24 36 inches (915 mm) above the

finished floor surface of the room in which the window is located. Glazing

between the floor and a height of 24 inches (610 mm) shall be fixed or have

openings through which a 4-inch (102 mm) diameter sphere cannot pass.

Operable sections of windows shall not permit openings that allow passage of a

4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere where such openings are located within 36

inches (915 mm) of the finished floor.

Exceptions:

1. Openings that are Operable windows where the sill portion of the opening is

located more than 75 feet (22.86 m) above the finished grade or other surface

below and that are provided with window guards fall prevention devices that

comply with ASTM F 2006 or F 2090.

2. Windows whose openings will not allow a 4-inch (102-mm) diameter sphere to

pass through the opening when the window is in its largest opened position.

3. Openings that are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply

with ASTM F2090.

4. Windows that are provided with window opening control devices that comply

with Section 1013.8.1.

Exceptions provided in the code for Guard Requirements.

Window Opening Devices

Section 1013.8.1


1013.8.1 Window Opening Control Devices. Window opening control devices

shall comply with ASTM F 2090. The window opening control device, after

operation to release the control device allowing the window to fully open, shall

not reduce the minimum net clear opening area of the window unit to less than

the area required by Section 1029.2.

This section details the requirements for window opening control devices.

1013.3 1013.2 Height. Required guards shall not be less than 42 inches (1067

mm) high, measured vertically above the as follows:

1. From the adjacent walking surfaces; adjacent fixed seating or

2. On stairs, from the line connecting the leading edges of the treads tread

nosings; and

3. On ramps, from the ramp surface at the guard.

Exceptions: 1. For occupancies in Group R-3 not more than three stories above grade in height and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2 not more than three stories above grade in height with separate means of egress, required guards shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically above the adjacent walking surfaces or adjacent fixed seating. 2. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads. 3. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guard also serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall not be less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads. 4. The guard height in assembly seating areas shall comply with Section 1028.14. 5. Along alternating tread devices and ship ladders, guards whose top rail also serves as a handrail, shall have height not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm), measured vertically from the leading edge of the device tread nosing. Section details where the height of guards are measured and the minimum

required height for guards in Group R-3 occupancies and within individual Group

R-2 dwelling units has been decreased from 42 inches to 36 inches.

Exits from Two Stories

Section 1021.2

Exits are now permitted to be arranged where they serve a portion of a story

instead of requiring that all of the required exits from the story be accessible to all

of the occupants.


1021.1 1021.2 Exits from Stories. Two exits, or exit access stairways or ramps

providing access to exits, from any story or occupied roof shall be provided

where one of the following conditions exists:

(Items 1–3 not shown for clarity)

Exceptions:

(Exceptions 1 through 6 not shown for clarity)

7. Exits serving specific spaces or areas need not be accessed by the remainder

of the story when all of the following are met:

7.1. The number of exits from the entire story complies with Section 1021.2.4;

7.2. The access to exits from each individual space in the story complies with

Section 1015.1; and

7.3. All spaces within each portion of a story shall have access to the minimum

number of approved independent exits based on the occupant load of that

portion of the story, but not less than two exits.

Chapter 14

Vertical and lateral Flame Propagation

Section 1403.5

A flame-spread test of the wall assembly is now required where combustible

water-resistive barriers are used in the exterior walls of Type I, II, III, and IV

buildings that are greater than 40 feet in height.

The application of this requirement to the higher types of is due to the fact that

these types of construction typically allow either no or limited combustibles in the

exterior walls. Newer construction practices, such as the addition of combustible

water-resistant barriers, can result in significant amounts of combustible

materials (other than foam plastics) being installed within the exterior walls.


1403.5 Vertical and Lateral Flame Propagation.

Exterior walls on buildings of Type I, II, III, or IV construction that are greater than

40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above grade plane and contain a combustible

water-resistive barrier shall be tested in accordance with and comply with the

acceptance criteria of NFPA 285.

Chapter 15

Weather Protection- Scuppers

Section 1503.4.2

Florida Specific modification of the requirements for roof scuppers.


1503.4.2 Scuppers. Where required for roof drainage, a scupper shall be placed

level with the roof surface in a wall or parapet. The scupper shall be located as

determined by the slope and the contributing area of the roof. The exterior facing

or lining of a scupper, if metal, shall be the same as flashing material required by

Sections 1503 through 1510 for the particular type of covering specified for the

building. For other type materials, follow manufacturer's specifications. When

scuppers are used for secondary (emergency overflow) roof drainage, the

quantity, size, location and inlet elevation of the scuppers shall be sized to

prevent the depth of ponding water from exceeding that for which the roof was

designed as determined by Section 1611.1. Scuppers shall not have an opening

dimension of less than 4 inches (102 mm). The flow through the primary system

shall not be considered when locating and sizing scuppers.

Performance Requirements

Section 1504.8

Florida Specific modification of the requirements for aggregates used as surfaces

(ballast roofs).


1504.8 Aggregate. Aggregate used as surfacing for roof coverings and

aggregate, gravel or stone used as ballast shall not be used on the roof of a

building located in a hurricane-prone region as defined in Section 202, or on any

other building with a mean roof height exceeding that permitted by Table 1504.8

based on the exposure category and basic wind speed at the site shall be

permitted as roof surfacing when installed on slopes of 3:12 or less, not less than

400 pound (182 kg) of roofing gravel or 300 pounds (145 kg) of slag per square

shall be applied. A minimum of 50 percent of the total aggregate shall be

embedded in the flood coat of bitumen or installed in accordance with its product

approval. Aggregate shall be dry and free from dirt and shall be in compliance

with the sizing requirements set forth in ASTM D 1863. A building official may

request a test to confirm compliance with these requirements.

Performance Requirements

Table 1504.8


TABLE 1504.8

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE MEAN ROOF HEIGHT PERMITTED FOR BUILDINGS

WITH AGGREGATE ON THE ROOF IN AREAS OUTSIDE A HURRICANE-PRONE

REGION

Table deleted in Florida.

Rooftop Structures

Section 1509.6.4

Florida Specific modification for equipment on roofs.


1509.6.4 Equipment and appliances on roofs or elevated structures. Where

equipment and appliances requiring access are installed on roofs or elevated

structures at a height exceeding 16 feet (4877 mm), such access shall be

provided by a permanent approved means of access, the extent of which shall be

from grade or floor level to the equipment and appliances' level service space.

Such access shall not require climbing over obstructions greater than 30 inches

(762 mm) high or walking on roofs having a slope greater than 4 units vertical in

12 units horizontal (33-percent slope).

Permanent ladders installed to provide the required access shall comply with the

following minimum design criteria:

1. The side railing shall extend above the parapet or roof edge not less than 30

inches (762 mm).

2. Ladders shall have rung spacing not to exceed 14 inches (356 mm) on center.

3. Ladders shall have a toe spacing not less than 6 inches (152 mm) deep.

4. There shall be a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) between rails.

5. Rungs shall have a minimum 0.75-inch (19 mm) diameter and be capable of

withstanding a 300-pound (136.1 kg) load.

6. Ladders over 30 feet (9144 mm) in height shall be provided with offset

sections and landings capable of withstanding 100 pounds (488.2 kg/m2) per

square foot.

7. Ladders shall be protected against corrosion by approved means. Catwalks

installed to provide the required access shall be not less than 24 inches (610

mm) wide and shall have railings as required for service platforms.

Exception: This section shall not apply to Group R-3 occupancies.

1509.6.5 Mechanical units. Roof mounted mechanical units shall be mounted

on curbs raised a minimum of 8 inches (203 mm) above the roof surface, or

where roofing materials extend beneath the unit, on raised equipment supports

providing a minimum clearance height in accordance with Table 1509.6.5.

Chapter 16

There are few changes to Chapter 16. Most of the changes that were made to

the 2012 IBC were incorporated in the 2010 Florida Building Code Building.

These changes were made to be consistent with ASCE 7-10.

This concludes the course Advanced 2014 5th Edition FBCB Significant Code

Changes. For more information on the Florida Building Code, visit

www.floridabuilding.org.

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