WASHINGTON STATE REGISTER

WSR 10-16-092

EXPEDITED RULES

BUILDING CODE COUNCIL

[ Filed July 30, 2010, 1:39 p.m. ]

Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Chapter 51-54 WAC, State Building Code adoption and amendment of the 2009 Edition of the International Fire Code.

NOTICE

THIS RULE IS BEING PROPOSED UNDER AN EXPEDITED RULE-MAKING PROCESS THAT WILL ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR THE AGENCY TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARINGS, PREPARE A SMALL BUSINESS ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT, OR PROVIDE RESPONSES TO THE CRITERIA FOR A SIGNIFICANT LEGISLATIVE RULE. IF YOU OBJECT TO THIS USE OF THE EXPEDITED RULE-MAKING PROCESS, YOU MUST EXPRESS YOUR OBJECTIONS IN WRITING AND THEY MUST BE SENT TO Tim Nogler, State Building Code Council, 128 10th Avenue S.W., Olympia, WA 98504-2525 , AND RECEIVED BY October 5, 2010.

Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: To correct numerical citations.

WAC 51-54-0500, adds section title and correct[s] numerical error.

WAC 51-54-0907, corrects numerical citation.

WAC 51-54-1000, eliminates duplicate language contained in base code and renumbers several sections; reincorporates several sections incorrectly filed as separate WAC sections.

Repeals the following WAC sections (reincorporates provisions into WAC 51-54-1000), WAC 51-54-1007, 51-54-1008, 51-54-1009, 51-54-1010, 51-54-1014, 51-54-1015, 51-54-1017, 51-54-1018, and 51-54-1019.

Reasons Supporting Proposal: Full public hearings were held on these issues during the rule adoption process; these editorial changes will clarify the rules, resulting in consistent enforcement.

Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapter 19.27 RCW.

Statute Being Implemented: Chapter 19.27A RCW.

Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.

Name of Proponent: State building code council, governmental.

Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting and Implementation: Joanne T. McCaughan, 128 10th Avenue S.W., Olympia, WA 98504-1014, (360) 725-2970; and Enforcement: Local jurisdictions.

Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: These changes will provide consistent enforcement and reduce confusion at the local level.

July 19, 2010

John C. Cochran

Chair

OTS-3262.3

AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 10-03-100, filed 1/20/10, effective 7/1/10)

WAC 51-54-0500 Chapter 5 -- Fire service features.

SECTION 503 FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS.

503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with locally adopted street, road, and access standards.

503.1.1 Buildings and facilities, is not adopted.

503.1.2 Additional access, is not adopted.

503.1.3 High-piled storage, is not adopted.

503.2 Specifications. This section is not adopted.

503.3 Marking. This section is not adopted.

503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. This section is not adopted.

SECTION 507 FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES

507.3 Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method.

EXCEPTION: Fire flow is not required for structures under 500 square feet with a B, U or R-1 occupancy where structures are at least 30 feet from any other structure and are used only for recreation.

SECTION 508 FIRE COMMAND CENTER

508.1.2 Separation. The fire command center shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code or horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code, or both.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 10-03-100, § 51-54-0500, filed 1/20/10, effective 7/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031, 19.27.074, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-093, § 51-54-0500, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0500, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 10-03-100, filed 1/20/10, effective 7/1/10)

WAC 51-54-0900 Chapter 9 -- Fire protection systems.

902.1 Definitions.

ALERT SIGNAL. See Section 402.1.

ALERTING SYSTEM. See Section 402.1.

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.

903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E Occupancies.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Portable school classrooms, provided aggregate area of any cluster or portion of a 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 by the building code.

2. Group E Occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.1.

903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy, where one of the following conditions exists:

1. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m²).

2. A group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.

3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m²).

4. Where a Group M occupancy that is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5000 square feet (464 m²).

903.2.8 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: Group R-1 if all of the following conditions apply:

1. The Group R fire area is no more than 500 square feet and is used for recreational use only.

2. The Group R fire area is on only one story.

3. The Group R fire area does not include a basement.

4. The Group R fire area is no closer than 30 feet from another structure.

5. Cooking is not allowed within the Group R fire area.

6. The Group R fire area has an occupant load of no more than 8.

7. A hand held (portable) fire extinguisher is in every Group R fire area.

903.6.3 Nightclub. Existing nightclubs constructed prior to July 1, 2006, shall be provided with automatic sprinklers not later than December 1, 2009.

SECTION 906 -- PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

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, R-4 and S occupancies.

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.l.

6. Special-hazard areas, including, but not limited to, laboratories, computer rooms and generator rooms, where required by the fire code official.

SECTION 907 -- FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

[F] 907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in this section and Section 907.2.8.4.

[F] 907.2.8.4. Carbon monoxide alarms. For new construction, an approved carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed by January 1, 2011, outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom in sleeping units. In a building where a tenancy exists, the tenant shall maintain the CO alarm as specified by the manufacturer including replacement of the batteries.

[F] 907.2.8.4.1 Existing sleeping units. Existing sleeping units shall be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms by July 1, 2011.

[F] 907.2.8.4.2 Alarm requirements. Single station carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer's installation instructions.

[F] 907.2.9 Group R-2. Fire alarm systems, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.9.3.

((~~907.2.9.1~~)) [F] 907.2.9.1.1 Group R-2 boarding homes. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where the building contains a boarding home licensed by the state of Washington.

EXCEPTION: In boarding homes licensed by the state of Washington, manual fire alarm boxes in resident sleeping areas shall not be required at exits if located at all constantly attended staff locations, provided such staff locations are visible, continuously accessible, located on each floor, and positioned so no portion of the story exceeds a horizontal travel distance of 200 feet to a manual fire alarm box.

[F] 907.2.9.3 Carbon monoxide alarms. For new construction, an approved carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed by January 1, 2011, outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom in dwelling units. In a building where a tenancy exists, the tenant shall maintain the CO alarm as specified by the manufacturer including replacement of the batteries.

[F] 907.2.9.3.1 Existing dwelling units. Existing dwelling units shall be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms by July 1, 2011.

[F] 907.2.10 Group R-3. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in Group R-3 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.10.1 through 907.2.10.3.

[F] 907.2.l0.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. For new construction, an approved carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed by January 1, 2011, outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom in dwelling units. In a building where a tenancy exists, the tenant shall maintain the CO alarm as specified by the manufacturer including replacement of the batteries.

[F] 907.2.10.2 Existing dwelling units. Existing dwelling units shall be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms by July 1, 2011.

EXCEPTION: Owner-occupied Group R-3 residences legally occupied prior to July 1, 2010.

[F] 907.2.10.3 Alarm requirements. Single station carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer's installation instructions.

909.6.3 Elevator shaft pressurization. Where elevator shaft pressurization is required to comply with Exception 6 of IBC Section 708.14.1, the pressurization system shall comply with and be maintained in accordance with IBC 708.14.2.

909.6.3.1 Activation. The elevator shaft pressurization system shall be activated by a fire alarm system which shall include smoke detectors or other approved detectors located near the elevator shaft on each floor as approved by the building official and fire code official. If the building has a fire alarm panel, detectors shall be connected to, with power supplied by, the fire alarm panel.

909.6.3.2 Power system. The power source for the fire alarm system and the elevator shaft pressurization system shall be in accordance with Section 909.11.

SECTION 915 ALERTING SYSTEMS

915.1 General. An approved alerting system shall be provided in buildings and structures as required in chapter 4 and this section, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.

EXCEPTION: Approved alerting systems in existing buildings, structures or occupancies.

915.2 Power source. Alerting systems shall be provided with power supplies in accordance with Section 4.4.1 of NFPA 72 and circuit disconnecting means identified as "EMERGENCY ALERTING SYSTEM."

EXCEPTION: Systems which do not require electrical power to operate.

915.3 Duration of Operation. The alerting system shall be capable of operating under nonalarm condition (quiescent load) for a minimum of 24 hours and then shall be capable of operating during an emergency condition for a period of 15 minutes at maximum connected load.

915.4 Combination system. Alerting system components and equipment shall be allowed to be used for other purposes.

915.4.1 System priority. The alerting system use shall take precedence over any other use.

915.4.2 Fire alarm system. Fire alarm systems sharing components and equipment with alerting systems must be in accordance with Section 6.8.4 of NFPA 72.

915.4.2.1 Signal priority. Recorded or live alert signals generated by an alerting system that shares components with a fire alarm system shall, when actuated, take priority over fire alarm messages and signals.

915.4.2.2 Temporary deactivation. Should the fire alarm system be in the alarm mode when such an alerting system is actuated, it shall temporarily cause deactivation of all fire alarm-initiated audible messages or signals during the time period required to transmit the alert signal.

915.4.2.3 Supervisory signal. Deactivation of fire alarm audible and visual notification signals shall cause a supervisory signal for each notification zone affected in the fire alarm system.

915.5 Audibility. Audible characteristics of the alert signal shall be in accordance with Section 7.4.1 of NFPA 72 throughout the area served by the alerting system.

EXCEPTION: Areas served by approved visual or textual notification, where the visible notification appliances are not also used as a fire alarm signal, are not required to be provided with audibility complying with Section 915.6.

915.6 Visibility. Visible and textual notification appliances shall be permitted in addition to alert signal audibility.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 10-03-100, § 51-54-0900, filed 1/20/10, effective 7/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 09-04-027, § 51-54-0900, filed 1/28/09, effective 7/1/10; 08-01-101, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031, 19.27.074, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-093, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-24-071, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 09-04-027, filed 1/28/09, effective 7/1/10)

WAC 51-54-1000 Chapter 10 -- Means of egress.

((1008.1.2 Door swing. Egress doors shall be side-hinged 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 as applicable in Section 101.2.~~

~~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.~~

~~9. In other than Group H Occupancies, manually operated horizontal sliding doors are permitted in a means of egress from 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.

1008.1.8.3 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.~~

2. In buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant load of 300 or less, Group 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 WHEN BUILDING IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1 inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting background; and

~~2.3 The use of the key-operated locking device is revocable by the fire code 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.

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. Approved, listed locks without delayed egress shall be permitted in nursing homes or portions of nursing homes, and boarding homes licensed by the state of Washington, provided that:~~

~~5.1 The clinical needs of one or more patients require specialized security measures for their safety;~~

~~5.2 The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic sprinkler systems or automatic fire detection system;~~

~~5.3 The doors unlock upon loss of electrical power controlling the lock or lock mechanism;~~

~~5.4 The lock shall be capable of being deactivated by a signal from a switch located in an approved location; and~~

~~5.5 There is a system, such as a keypad and code, in place that allows visitors, staff persons and appropriate residents to exit. Instructions for exiting shall be posted within six feet of the door.~~

1009.12 Stairways in individual dwelling units. Stairs or ladders within an individual dwelling unit used for access to areas of 200 square feet (18.6 m²) or less, and not containing the primary bathroom or kitchen, are exempt from the requirements of Section 1009.

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:~~ ~~Rooms with exit doors opening directly to the outside at ground level.~~

1014.2.2.1 Definition. For the purposes of this section, a suite is defined as 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 (93 m²) 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 rooms, shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²).

1014.2.4.2 Exit access. Any rooms 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.

1015.1 Exits or exit access doorways from spaces. Two exits or exit access doorways from any space shall be provided where one of the following conditions exists:

~~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, 1015.5, 1015.6 or 1015.6.1.~~

~~EXCEPTION:~~ ~~Group I-2 Occupancies shall comply with Section 1014.2.2.~~

TABLE 1015.1
SPACES WITH ONE MEANS OF EGRESS

((~~OCCUPANCY~~ ~~MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD~~

~~A, B, E^a, 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.~~

1015.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways. Three exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load of 501-1,000. Four exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load greater than 1,000.

TABLE 1015.1
SPACES WITH ONE MEANS OF EGRESS
((~~OCCUPANCY~~	~~MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD~~
~~A, B, E^a, 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))

1019.1 Exits from stories. All spaces within each story shall have access to the minimum number of exits as specified in Table 1019.1 based on the occupant load of the story, except as modified in Section 1019.2. For the purposes of this chapter, occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required for stories. The required number of exits from any story, including basements, shall be maintained until arrival at grade or the public way.

~~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.

TABLE 1019.1
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS FOR OCCUPANT LOAD

((~~OCCUPANT LOAD (persons per story)~~ ~~MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS (per story)~~

~~1-500~~ 2

~~501-1,000~~ 3

~~More than 1,000~~ 4))

1019.2 Buildings with one exit. Only one exit shall be required in buildings as specified below:

TABLE 1019.1
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS FOR OCCUPANT LOAD
((~~OCCUPANT LOAD (persons per story)~~	~~MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXITS (per story)~~
~~1-500~~	2
~~501-1,000~~	3
~~More than 1,000~~	4))

~~1. Buildings meeting the limitations of Table 1019.2, provided the building has not more than one level below the first story above grade plane.~~

~~2. Buildings of Group R-3 Occupancy.~~

~~3. Single-level buildings with occupied spaces at the level of exit discharge provided each space complies with Section 1015.1 as a space with one exit or exit access doorway.~~

TABLE 1019.2
BUILDINGS WITH ONE EXIT

((~~OCCUPANCY~~ ~~MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF BUILDING ABOVE GRADE PLANE~~ ~~MAXIMUM OCCUPANTS (OR DWELLING UNITS) PER FLOOR AND TRAVEL DISTANCE~~

~~A, B^d, E^e, F, M, U~~ ~~1 Story~~ ~~49 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~

~~H-2, H-3~~ ~~1 Story~~ ~~3 occupants and 25 feet travel distance~~

~~H-4, H-5, I, R~~ ~~1 Story~~ ~~10 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~

~~S^a~~ ~~1 Story~~ ~~29 occupants and 100 feet travel distance~~

~~B^b, F, M, S^a~~ ~~2 Stories~~ ~~30 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~

~~R-2~~ ~~2 Stories^c~~ ~~4 dwelling units and 50 feet travel distance~~))

~~For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.~~

~~a. For the required number of exits for open parking structures, see Section 1019.1.1.~~

~~b. For the required number of exits for air traffic control towers, see Section 412.1.~~

c. Buildings classified as Group R-2 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1026 shall have a maximum height of three stories above grade plane.

~~d. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with an occupancy in Group B shall have a maximum travel distance of 100 feet.~~

~~e. Day care maximum occupant load is 10.~~))

TABLE 1019.2
BUILDINGS WITH ONE EXIT
((~~OCCUPANCY~~	~~MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF BUILDING ABOVE GRADE PLANE~~	~~MAXIMUM OCCUPANTS (OR DWELLING UNITS) PER FLOOR AND TRAVEL DISTANCE~~
~~A, B^d, E^e, F, M, U~~	~~1 Story~~	~~49 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~
~~H-2, H-3~~	~~1 Story~~	~~3 occupants and 25 feet travel distance~~
~~H-4, H-5, I, R~~	~~1 Story~~	~~10 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~
~~S^a~~	~~1 Story~~	~~29 occupants and 100 feet travel distance~~
~~B^b, F, M, S^a~~	~~2 Stories~~	~~30 occupants and 75 feet travel distance~~
~~R-2~~	~~2 Stories^c~~	~~4 dwelling units and 50 feet travel distance~~))

SECTION 1007 ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS

1007.1 Accessible means of egress required. Accessible means of egress shall comply with this section. Accessible spaces shall be provided with not less than one accessible means of egress. Where more than one means of egress are required by Section 1015.1 or 1021.1 from any accessible space, each accessible portion of the space shall be served by not less than two accessible means of egress.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Accessible means of egress are not required in alterations to existing buildings.

2. One accessible means of egress is required from an accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Section 1007.3, 1007.4 or 1007.5.

3. In assembly areas with sloped or stepped aisles, one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1028.8.

4. In parking garages, accessible means of egress are not required to serve parking areas that do not contain accessible parking spaces.

1007.8 Two-way communication. A two-way communication system shall be provided at the elevator landing on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the story of exit discharge complying with Sections 1007.8.1 and 1007.8.2.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the elevator landing where two-way communication is provided within the areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1007.6.3.

2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with exit ramps conforming to provisions of Section 1010.

1007.8.1 System requirements. Two-way communication systems shall provide communication between each required location and the fire command center or a central control point location approved by the fire department. Where the central control point is not constantly attended, a two-way communication system shall have a timed automatic telephone dial-out capability to a monitoring location. The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals. The two-way communication system shall have a battery backup or an approved alternate source of power that is capable of 90 minutes use upon failure of the normal power source.

SECTION 1008 DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

1008.1.9.3 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.

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 sign is posted on the egress side on or adjacent to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN BUILDING IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1 inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting background; and

2.3 The use of the key-operated locking device is revocable by the building official for due cause.

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 a tool.

5. Fire doors after the minimum elevated temperature has disabled the unlatching mechanism in accordance with listed fire door test procedures.

6. Approved, listed locks without delayed egress shall be permitted in Group R-2 boarding homes licensed by Washington state, provided that:

6.1. The clinical needs of one or more patients require specialized security measures for their safety.

6.2. The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic sprinkler system or automatic fire detection system.

6.3. The doors unlock upon loss of electrical power controlling the lock or lock mechanism.

6.4. The lock shall be capable of being deactivated by a signal from a switch located in an approved location.

6.5. There is a system, such as a keypad and code, in place that allows visitors, staff persons and appropriate residents to exit. Instructions for exiting shall be posted within six feet of the door.

1008.1.9.6 Special locking arrangements in Group I-2. Approved locks shall be permitted in a Group I-2 Occupancy where the clinical needs of persons receiving care require such locking. Locks shall be permitted in such occupancies where the building is 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.

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, a nursing station or other approved location.

4. The procedures for the operation(s) of the unlocking system shall be described and approved as part of the emergency planning and preparedness required by Chapter 4 of the International Fire Code.

5. There is a system, such as a keypad and code, in place that allows visitors, staff persons and appropriate residents to exit. Instructions for exiting shall be posted within six feet of the door.

6. Emergency lighting shall be provided at the door.

EXCEPTION: Items 1, 2, 3, and 5 shall not apply to doors to areas where persons which because of clinical needs require restraint or containment as part of the function of a Group I-2 mental hospital provided that all clinical staff shall have the keys, codes or other means necessary to operate the locking devices.

SECTION 1009 STAIRWAYS

1009.15 Stairways in individual dwelling units. Stairs or ladders within an individual dwelling unit used for access to areas of 200 square feet (18.6 m²) or less, and not containing the primary bathroom or kitchen, are exempt from the requirements of Section 1009.

SECTION 1010 RAMPS

1010.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to ramps used as a component of a means of egress.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Other than ramps that are part of the accessible routes providing access in accordance with Sections 1108.2 through 1108.2.4 and 1108.2.6, ramped aisles within assembly rooms or spaces shall conform with the provisions in Section 1028.11.

2. Curb ramps shall comply with ICC A117.1.

3. Vehicle ramps in parking garages for pedestrian exit access shall not be required to comply with Sections 1010.3 through 1010.9 when they are not an accessible route serving accessible parking spaces or other required accessible elements.

4. In a parking garage where one accessible means of egress serving accessible parking spaces or other accessible elements is provided, a second accessible means of egress serving that area may include a vehicle ramp that does not comply with Sections 1010.4 through 1010.8.

SECTION 1014 EXIT ACCESS

1014.2.2 Group I-2. General. Habitable spaces and suites in Group I-2 Occupancies are permitted to comply with this Section 1014.2.2.

1014.2.2.1 Exit access doors. Habitable spaces and suites in Group I-2 Occupancies shall have an exit access door leading directly to a corridor.

EXCEPTION: Rooms with exit doors opening directly to the outside at ground level.

1014.2.2.2 Exit access through suites. Exit access from areas not classified as a Group I-2 Occupancy suite shall not pass through a suite. In a suite required to have more than one exit, one exit access may pass through an adjacent suite if all other requirements of Section 1014.2 are satisfied.

1014.2.2.3 Separation. Suites in Group I-2 Occupancies shall be separated from other portions of the building by a smoke partition complying with Section 711. Partitions within suites are not required to be smoke-resistant or fire-resistance-rated unless required by another section of this Code.

1014.2.2.4 Suites containing patient sleeping areas. Patient sleeping areas in Group I-2 Occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites with one intervening room 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.

1014.2.2.4.1 Area. Suites of sleeping rooms shall not exceed 5,000 square feet (465 m²).

1014.2.2.4.2 Exit access. Any patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient sleeping rooms, of more than 1,000 square feet (93 m²) shall have at least two exit access doors located in accordance with Section 1015.2.

1014.2.2.4.3 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). The travel distance between any point in a Group I-2 Occupancy patient sleeping room and an exit access door in that room shall not exceed 50 feet (15,240 mm).

1014.2.2.5 Suites not containing patient sleeping areas. Areas other than patient sleeping areas in Group I-2 Occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites that comply with Sections 1014.2.2.5.1 through 1014.2.2.5.4.

1014.2.2.5.1 Area. Suites of rooms, other than patient sleeping rooms, shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m²).

1014.2.2.5.2 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 located in accordance with Section 1015.2.

1014.2.2.5.3 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 to the exit access door is not greater than 100 feet (30,480 mm).

1014.2.2.5.4 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).

SECTION 1018 CORRIDORS

1018.5 Air movement in corridors. Corridors shall not serve as supply, return, exhaust, relief or ventilation air ducts.

EXCEPTIONS: 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 one thousand square feet (93 m²) or less in area, utilization of corridors for conveying return air is permitted.

4. Incidental air movement from pressurized rooms within health care facilities, provided that a corridor is not the primary source of supply or return to the room.

5. Where such air is part of an engineered smoke control system.

6. Air supplied to corridors serving residential occupancies shall not be considered as providing ventilation air to the dwelling units subject to the following:

6.1 The air supplied to the corridor is one hundred percent outside air; and

6.2 The units served by the corridor have conforming ventilation air independent of the air supplied to the corridor; and

6.3 For other than high-rise buildings, the supply fan will automatically shut off upon activation of corridor smoke detectors which shall be spaced at no more than thirty feet (9,144 mm) on center along the corridor; or

6.4 For high-rise buildings, corridor smoke detector activation will close required smoke/fire dampers at the supply inlet to the corridor at the floor receiving the alarm.

1018.6 Corridor continuity. Fire-resistance-rated corridors shall be continuous from the point of entry to an exit, and shall not be interrupted by intervening rooms.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not be construed as intervening rooms.

2. In Group R-2 boarding homes and residential treatment facilities licensed by Washington state, seating areas shall be allowed to be open to the corridor provided:

2.1 The seating area is constructed as required for the corridor;

2.2 The floor is separated into at least two compartments complying with Section 407.4;

2.3 Each individual seating area does not exceed 150 square feet, excluding the corridor width;

2.4 The combined total space of seating areas per compartment does not exceed 300 square feet, excluding the corridor width;

2.5 Combustible furnishings located within the seating area shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code Section 805; and

2.6 Emergency means of egress lighting is provided as required by Section 1006 to illuminate the area.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 09-04-027, § 51-54-1000, filed 1/28/09, effective 7/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031, 19.27.074, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-093, § 51-54-1000, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-1000, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

REPEALER

The following sections of the Washington Administrative Code are repealed:

WAC 51-54-1007 Section 1007 -- Accessible means of egress.

WAC 51-54-1008 Section 1008 -- Doors, gates and turnstiles.

WAC 51-54-1009 Section 1009 -- Stairways and handrails.

WAC 51-54-1010 Section 1010 -- Ramps.

WAC 51-54-1014 Exit access.

WAC 51-54-1015 Reserved.

WAC 51-54-1017 Reserved.

WAC 51-54-1018 Section 1018 -- Corridors.

WAC 51-54-1019 Reserved.

EXCEPTIONS:	1. Portable school classrooms, provided aggregate area of any cluster or portion of a 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 by the building code.
	2. Group E Occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.1.

EXCEPTION:	Group R-1 if all of the following conditions apply:
	1. The Group R fire area is no more than 500 square feet and is used for recreational use only.
	2. The Group R fire area is on only one story.
	3. The Group R fire area does not include a basement.
	4. The Group R fire area is no closer than 30 feet from another structure.
	5. Cooking is not allowed within the Group R fire area.
	6. The Group R fire area has an occupant load of no more than 8.
	7. A hand held (portable) fire extinguisher is in every Group R fire area.

~~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 as applicable in Section 101.2.~~
	~~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.~~
	~~9. In other than Group H Occupancies, manually operated horizontal sliding doors are permitted in a means of egress from spaces with an occupant load of 10 or less.~~

	~~For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.~~
	~~a. For the required number of exits for open parking structures, see Section 1019.1.1.~~
	~~b. For the required number of exits for air traffic control towers, see Section 412.1.~~
	c. Buildings classified as Group R-2 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1026 shall have a maximum height of three stories above grade plane.
	~~d. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with an occupancy in Group B shall have a maximum travel distance of 100 feet.~~
	~~e. Day care maximum occupant load is 10.~~))

EXCEPTIONS:	1. Accessible means of egress are not required in alterations to existing buildings.
	2. One accessible means of egress is required from an accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Section 1007.3, 1007.4 or 1007.5.
	3. In assembly areas with sloped or stepped aisles, one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1028.8.
	4. In parking garages, accessible means of egress are not required to serve parking areas that do not contain accessible parking spaces.

EXCEPTIONS:	1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the elevator landing where two-way communication is provided within the areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1007.6.3.
	2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with exit ramps conforming to provisions of Section 1010.

EXCEPTIONS:	1. Other than ramps that are part of the accessible routes providing access in accordance with Sections 1108.2 through 1108.2.4 and 1108.2.6, ramped aisles within assembly rooms or spaces shall conform with the provisions in Section 1028.11.
	2. Curb ramps shall comply with ICC A117.1.
	3. Vehicle ramps in parking garages for pedestrian exit access shall not be required to comply with Sections 1010.3 through 1010.9 when they are not an accessible route serving accessible parking spaces or other required accessible elements.
	4. In a parking garage where one accessible means of egress serving accessible parking spaces or other accessible elements is provided, a second accessible means of egress serving that area may include a vehicle ramp that does not comply with Sections 1010.4 through 1010.8.

EXCEPTIONS:	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 one thousand square feet (93 m²) or less in area, utilization of corridors for conveying return air is permitted.
	4. Incidental air movement from pressurized rooms within health care facilities, provided that a corridor is not the primary source of supply or return to the room.
	5. Where such air is part of an engineered smoke control system.
	6. Air supplied to corridors serving residential occupancies shall not be considered as providing ventilation air to the dwelling units subject to the following:
	6.1 The air supplied to the corridor is one hundred percent outside air; and
	6.2 The units served by the corridor have conforming ventilation air independent of the air supplied to the corridor; and
	6.3 For other than high-rise buildings, the supply fan will automatically shut off upon activation of corridor smoke detectors which shall be spaced at no more than thirty feet (9,144 mm) on center along the corridor; or
	6.4 For high-rise buildings, corridor smoke detector activation will close required smoke/fire dampers at the supply inlet to the corridor at the floor receiving the alarm.

EXCEPTIONS:	1. Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not be construed as intervening rooms.
	2. In Group R-2 boarding homes and residential treatment facilities licensed by Washington state, seating areas shall be allowed to be open to the corridor provided:
	2.1 The seating area is constructed as required for the corridor;
	2.2 The floor is separated into at least two compartments complying with Section 407.4;
	2.3 Each individual seating area does not exceed 150 square feet, excluding the corridor width;
	2.4 The combined total space of seating areas per compartment does not exceed 300 square feet, excluding the corridor width;
	2.5 Combustible furnishings located within the seating area shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code Section 805; and
	2.6 Emergency means of egress lighting is provided as required by Section 1006 to illuminate the area.

WAC 51-54-1007	Section 1007 -- Accessible means of egress.
WAC 51-54-1008	Section 1008 -- Doors, gates and turnstiles.
WAC 51-54-1009	Section 1009 -- Stairways and handrails.
WAC 51-54-1010	Section 1010 -- Ramps.
WAC 51-54-1014	Exit access.
WAC 51-54-1015	Reserved.
WAC 51-54-1017	Reserved.
WAC 51-54-1018	Section 1018 -- Corridors.
WAC 51-54-1019	Reserved.

© Washington State Code Reviser's Office