WSR 19-16-157
PROPOSED RULES
BUILDING CODE COUNCIL
[Filed August 7, 2019, 11:08 a.m.]
Original Notice.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 18-09-090.
Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Chapter 51-54A WAC, Adoption and amendment of the 2018 International Fire Code.
Hearing Location(s): On September 13, 2019, at 10:00 a.m., at the CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 North Discovery Place, Spokane Valley, WA 99216; and on September 27, 2019, at 10:00 a.m., at the Department of Enterprise Services, Presentation Room (1213), 1500 Jefferson Street, Olympia, WA 98504.
Date of Intended Adoption: November 8, 2019.
Submit Written Comments to: Doug Orth, 1500 Jefferson Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, email SBCC@des.wa.gov, by September 27, 2019.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Carrie Toebbe, phone 360-407-9255, email carrie.toebbe@des.wa.gov, by September 4, 2019.
Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The proposed rules adopt the 2018 edition of the International Fire Code (IFC), published by the International Code Council (ICC), with state amendments to incorporate proposed changes as adopted by the Washington state building code council (SBCC). The rules will provide increased clarity and life safety measures for building construction in Washington state.
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED CHANGES
2018 IFC
Amendments to Chapter 51-54A WAC*
1 | WAC | Section | Changes in 2018 | Discussion |
2 | 51-54A | | Title | Addresses model code date |
3 | 51-54A-0101 | 101.2.1 | Appendices | Deletes reference to the International Wildland Urban Interface Code as a reference. It is now an adopted code. |
4 | 51-54A-0105 | 105.6.3.1 | Carbon dioxide systems | Moved from WAC 51-54A-5307. |
5 | | 105.6.4.9 | Marijuana extraction systems | Amendment language addressing operational permitting deleted. |
6 | | 105.7.19 | Marijuana extraction systems | Amendment language addressing construction permitting deleted. |
7 | 51-54A-0405 | 405 | Emergency evacuation drills | Amendment deleted. |
8 | 51-54A-0406 | 406.3.1 | Fire prevention training | Amendment section deleted. |
9 | | 406.3.2 | Evacuation training | Amendment section deleted. |
10 | | 406.3.3 | Fire safety training | Amendment section deleted. |
11 | 51-54A-0605 | 605 | Electrical equipment, wiring and hazards | Amendment deleted. Text moved to WAC 51-54A-1204. |
12 | 51-54A-0607 | 607 | Commercial kitchen hoods | Was WAC 51-54A-0609. |
13 | | 607.2 | Where required | Deleted exception. |
14 | | 607.2.1 | Domestic cooking appliances used for commercial purposes | Text relocated. |
15 | | Table 607.2.1 | Type of hood required for domestic cooking appliances in the following spaces | Text relocated. |
16 | | 607.3 | Operations, inspection and maintenance | Text relocated. |
17 | 51-54A-0701 | 701.6 | Owner's responsibility | Renumbered. |
18 | 51-54A-0907 | 907.2.6 | Group I | Deleted. |
19 | | 907.11 | NICET | Renumbered. |
20 | | 907.11.1 | Scope | Renumbered. |
21 | | 907.11.2 | Design review | Renumbered. |
22 | 51-54A-0909 | 909.6.3 | Pressurized stairways and elevator hoistways | Specifies which sections of section 909 apply for various conditions. |
23 | 51-54A-0915 | 915.1.2 | Fuel-burning appliances and fuel-burning fireplaces | Amendment section deleted. |
24 | | 915.1.3 | Forced-air furnaces | Amendment section deleted. |
25 | | 915.1.4 | Fuel-burning appliances outside of dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms | Amendment section deleted. |
26 | | 915.1.5 | Private garages | Amendment section deleted. |
27 | | 915.1.6 | Exempt garages | Amendment section deleted. |
28 | | 915.2 | Locations | Amendment section deleted. |
29 | 51-54A-0916 | 916 | Alerting systems | Amendment deleted. Text moved to WAC 51-54A-0918. |
30 | 51-54A-1009 | 1009.1 | Accessible means of egress required | Exception 01 deleted. |
31 | | 1009.8 | Two-way communication | Exception 06 added. |
32 | 51-54A-1028 | 1028 | Exit discharge | Amendment deleted. |
33 | 51-54A-1204 | 1204 | Solar photovoltaic power systems | Text moved from WAC 51-54A-0605. |
34 | 51-54A-3308 | 3308.9 | Fire safety requirements for buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C construction | Renumbered. |
35 | 51-54A-3601 | 3601.3 | Permits | Renumbered. |
36 | 51-54A-5307 | 5307 | Carbon dioxide systems | Deleted. Amendment moved to WAC 51-54A-0105. |
37 | 51-54A-5601 | 5601.1 | Scope | Modified exception 8. |
38 | 51-54A-5704 | 5704.2.11 | Underground tanks | Updated section references to match model code. |
39 | 51-54A-6108 | 6108.1 | General | Modified title to match model code. |
40 | 51-54A-8200 | --- | International Wildland-Urban Interface Code | No longer adopted through an appendix. It is now an adopted code. |
Statute Being Implemented: Chapters
19.27 and
34.05 RCW.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: SBCC is seeking comments on the issues proposed in the rules shown below.
Name of Proponent: Doug Orth, Chair, SBCC, governmental.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting: Ray Shipman, 1500 Jefferson Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, 360-407-8047; Implementation: Richard Brown, 1500 Jefferson Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, 360-407-9277; and Enforcement: Local jurisdiction having authority.
A school district fiscal impact statement is not required under RCW
28A.305.135.
A cost-benefit analysis is required under RCW
34.05.328. A preliminary cost-benefit analysis may be obtained by contacting Richard Brown, 1500 Jefferson Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, phone 360-407-9277, email
Richard.brown@des.wa.gov.
The proposed rule does impose more-than-minor costs on businesses.
There are costs imposed by the proposed rules but the costs do not fall disproportionately on small businesses. These rules will not affect the distribution of impacted work, whether by small businesses or not, doing the work. The rules do not affect employment, reporting or recordkeeping.
Small Business Economic Impact Statement
Description: SBCC is filing a proposed rule to the updated 2018 edition of IFC with state amendments: Chapter 51-54A WAC. Since 1985 SBCC has been responsible to update to new editions of the Building Code per RCW
19.27.074.
The administrative compliance requirements are under the authority of the local government, RCW
19.27.050. Enforcement activities including permit issuance, plan review and approval, and inspections occur at the local level. Requirements for construction document submittal and other reporting requirements are determined by the local jurisdiction and are consistent with previously established policies.
IFC is updated every three years by SBCC. The code development process conducted by the model code organization is open to all interest groups within the design and construction industry and from governmental organizations. See www.iccsafe.org for more information about the model code development process.
Professional Services: Washington has had a statewide Building Code in effect since 1974. The local enforcement authority having jurisdiction administers the codes through the building and/or fire departments. Administrative procedures for state Building Code compliance are established and will not be changed by the adoption of the update to the current Building Codes. Small businesses will employ the same types of professional services for the design and construction of buildings and systems to comply with the state Building Code.
The proposed rule updates the state Building Code and does not require additional equipment, supplies, labor or other services. Services needed to comply with the Building Code are existing within the construction industry as required by the local authority having jurisdiction.
Costs of Compliance for Businesses: SBCC accepts proposals to amend IFC to meet the legislative goals. The statewide code amendment proposal process is defined in chapter 51-04 WAC and SBCC bylaws. Each proponent must identify where a proposed amendment has an economic impact and must quantify costs. SBCC developed a specific set of forms so amendment proponents could identify where a proposed amendment was editorial, technical or a policy change.
The Building Code technical advisory group (TAG) determined there is not a cost for compliance on businesses. The changes represent clarification of an existing statewide amendment.
Loss of Sales or Revenue: No impact.
Cost of Compliance for Small Businesses: No impact.
Small Businesses Involved in the Development of the Rule: SBCC conducted open public meetings of the Energy Code TAG, available via telephone conference bridge and over the internet, and allowed comment on every item on every agenda. SBCC appointed over one hundred representatives of all segments of the business and construction community to serve on the TAGs.
List of Industries: Below is a list of industries required to comply with the Fire Code:
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code | NAICS Code Definition | Number of Establishments in Washington State | TOTAL Annual Payroll | TOTAL Annual Revenue | AVG Annual Payroll | AVG Annual Revenue | 1% of Avg Annual Payroll | 0.3% of Avg Annual Revenue |
236115 | New single-family housing construction (except for-sale builders) | 1261 | $186,272,000 | --- | $147,718 | --- | $1,477 | --- |
236116 | New multifamily housing construction (except for-sale builders) | 45 | $54,622,000 | --- | $1,213,822 | --- | $12,138 | --- |
236118 | Residential remodelers | 2777 | $318,180,000 | $1,536,217,000 | $114,577 | $553,193 | $1,146 | $1,660 |
236210 | Industrial building construction | 53 (s) | $99,790,000 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
236220 | Commercial and institutional building construction | 862 | $772,473,000 | $6,925,925,000 | $896,140 | $8,034,716 | $8,961 | $24,104 |
238110 | Poured concrete foundation and structure contractors | 511 | $144,643,000 | $479,256,000 | $283,059 | $937,879 | $2,831 | $2,814 |
238120 | Structural steel and precast concrete contractors | 68 | $93,454,000 | $336,100,000 | $1,374,324 | $4,942,647 | $13,743 | $14,828 |
238130 | Framing contractors | 417 | $79,196,000 | $279,226,000 | $189,918 | $669,607 | $1,899 | $2,009 |
238140 | Masonry contractors | 293 | $74,067,000 | $215,274,000 | $252,788 | $734,724 | $2,528 | $2,204 |
238150 | Glass and glazing contractors | 141 | $67,626,000 | $237,985,000 | $479,617 | $1,687,837 | $4,796 | $5,064 |
238160 | Roofing contractors | 537 | $179,942,000 | $660,911,000 | $335,088 | $1,230,747 | $3,351 | $3,692 |
238170 | Siding contractors | 327 | $58,557,000 | $286,471,000 | $179,073 | $876,058 | $1,791 | $2,628 |
238190 | Other foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors | 113 | $37,585,000 | $123,771,000 | $332,611 | $1,095,319 | $3,326 | $3,286 |
238210 | Electrical contractors and other wiring installation contractors | 1847 | $940,854,000 | $3,026,762,000 | $509,396 | $1,638,745 | $5,094 | $4,916 |
238220 | Plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors | 1664 | $959,976,000 | $3,169,548,000 | $576,909 | $1,904,776 | $5,769 | $5,714 |
238290 | Other building equipment contractors | 81 | $117,696,000 | --- | $1,453,037 | --- | $14,530 | --- |
238310 | Drywall and insulation contractors | 653 | $282,929,000 | $723,945,000 | $433,276 | $1,108,644 | $4,333 | $3,325 |
238990 | All other specialty trade contractors | 547 | $182,710,000 | $573,308,000 | $334,022 | $1,048,095 | $3,340 | $3,144 |
321213 | Engineered wood member (except truss) manufacturing | 11 | $14,216,000 | $79,051,000 | $1,292,364 | $7,186,455 | $12,924 | $21,559 |
321214 | Truss manufacturing | 22 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
321219 | Reconstituted wood product manufacturing | 3 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
321911 | Wood window and door manufacturing | 39 | $37,814,000 | $145,137,000 | $969,590 | $3,721,462 | $9,696 | $11,164 |
321992 | Prefabricated wood building manufacturing | 18 | $6,891,000 | --- | $382,833 | --- | $382,833 | --- |
327310 | Cement manufacturing | 7 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
327320 | Ready-mix concrete manufacturing | 93 | $74,457,000 | --- | $800,613 | --- | $8,006 | --- |
327331 | Concrete block and brick manufacturing | 18 | $11,218,000 | --- | $623,222 | --- | $6,232 | --- |
332311 | Prefabricated metal building and component manufacturing | 9 | $3,564,000 | --- | $396,000 | --- | $3,960 | --- |
332312 | Fabricated structural metal manufacturing | 94 | $125,755,000 | --- | $1,337,819 | --- | $13,378 | --- |
332321 | Metal window and door manufacturing | 16 | $23,776,000 | --- | $1,486,000 | --- | $14,860 | --- |
332322 | Sheet metal work manufacturing | 122 | $122,956,000 | $573,443,000 | $1,007,836 | $4,700,352 | $10,078 | $14,101 |
335121 | Residential electric lighting fixture manufacturing | 9 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
335122 | Commercial, industrial, and institutional electric lighting fixture manufacturing | 8 | $2,625,000 | --- | $328,125 | --- | $3,281 | --- |
335129 | Other lighting equipment manufacturing | 4 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
423720 | Plumbing and heating equipment and supplies (hydronics) merchant wholesalers | 168 | $82,225,000 | $897,748,000 | $489,435 | $5,343,738 | $4,894 | $16,031 |
541310 | Architectural services | 635 | $326,798,000 | $921,033,000 | $514,643 | $1,450,446 | $5,146 | $4,351 |
541330 | Engineering services | 1599 | $1,758,825,000 | $3,946,553,000 | $1,099,953 | $2,468,138 | $11,000 | $7,404 |
541350 | Building inspection services | 154 | $9,724,000 | $28,297,000 | $63,143 | $183,747 | $631 | $551 |
561621 | Security systems services (except locksmiths) | 109 | $86,072,000 | $233,388,000 | $789,651 | $2,141,174 | $7,897 | $6,424 |
Note: | Data is blank in some fields to protect data source. |
Data Source: | Economic Census of the United States. |
Estimate of the Number of Jobs That Will Be Created or Lost: No impact.
A copy of the statement may be obtained by contacting Richard Brown, 1500 Jefferson Street S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, phone 360-407-9277, email Richard.brown@des.wa.gov.
August 5, 2019
Doug Orth
Council Chair
Chapter 51-54A WAC
STATE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THE ((2015))2018 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-05-065, filed 2/12/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-0101Section 101—Scope and general requirements.
101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted. ((The State Building Code Council has determined that a local ordinance adopting Appendix N Wildland Urban Interface Code may be adopted by any local government upon notification of the council.))
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 17-10-028, filed 4/25/17, effective 5/26/17)
WAC 51-54A-0105Permits.
SECTION 105 SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
((105.6.4))105.6.3.1 Carbon dioxide systems. An operational permit is required for carbon dioxide systems having more than 100 pounds of carbon dioxide.
((105.6.4.9 Marijuana extraction systems. An operational permit is required to use a marijuana/cannabis extraction system regulated under WAC 314-55-104.
105.7.19 Marijuana extraction systems. A construction permit is required to install a marijuana/cannabis extraction system regulated under WAC 314-55-104.))
105.7.20 Underground supply piping for automatic sprinkler system. A construction permit is required for the installation of the portion of the underground water supply piping, public or private, supplying a water-based fire protection system. The permit shall apply to all underground piping and appurtenances downstream of the first control valve on the lateral piping or service line from the distribution main to one foot above finished floor of the facility with the fire protection system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. When the underground piping is installed by the aboveground piping contractor. |
| 2. Underground piping serves a fire protection system installed in accordance with NFPA 13D. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 17-10-028, filed 4/25/17, effective 5/26/17)
WAC 51-54A-0405((Emergency evacuation drills.))Reserved.
((405.1 General. Emergency drills complying with the provisions of this section shall be conducted at least annually in the occupancies listed in Section 405.2.1 or when required by the fire code official. Drills shall be designed in cooperation with the local authorities.
405.2 Frequency. Required emergency drills shall be held at the intervals specified in Table 405.2 or more frequently where necessary to familiarize all occupants with the drill procedure.
405.2.1 Group E occupancies. The occupancy shall conduct at a minimum the following drills during the year:
1. One drill using the school mapping information system.
EXCEPTION: | Day cares not colocated on a school campus. |
2. Three fire evacuation drills.
3. One shelter-in-place drill.
4. Additional drills shall be as required by RCW 28A.320.125. Table 405.2
Fire and Evacuation Drill Frequency and Participation
Group or Occupancy | Frequency | Participation |
Group A | Quarterly | Employees |
Group Bb | Annually | All Occupants |
Group Bb,c (Ambulatory Care Facilities) | Annually | Employees |
Group Bb (Clinic, outpatient) | Annually | Employees |
Group E | Monthlya,e | All Occupants |
Group F | Annually | Employees |
Group I-1 | Semiannually on each shift | All Occupants |
Group I-2 | Quarterly on each shifta | Employees |
Group I-3 | Quarterly on each shifta | Employees |
Group I-4 | Quarterly on each shifta | All Occupants |
Group R-1 | Quarterly on each shift | Employees |
Group R-2f | Quarterly on each shift | Employees |
Group R-2d | Four Annually | All Occupants |
High-rise buildings | Annually | Employees |
a | In severe climates, the fire code official shall have the authority to modify the emergency evacuation drill frequency. |
b | Emergency evacuation drills are required in Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the level of exit discharge. |
c | Emergency evacuation drills are required in ambulatory care facilities in accordance with Section 403.3. |
d | Emergency evacuation drills in Group R-2 college and university buildings shall be in accordance with Section 403.10.2.1. Other Group R-2 occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 403.10.2.2. |
e | Day cares colocated on a Group E campus shall participate in emergency drills occurring on the campus. |
f | Applicable to group homes licensed by the state of Washington. Emergency evacuation drills for assisted living facilities and residential treatment facilities licensed by the state of Washington are required to meet the requirements of Group I-1. |
405.4 Time. Drills shall be held at unexpected times and under varying conditions to simulate the unusual conditions that occur in case of an emergency.
405.5 Recordkeeping. Records shall be maintained of required emergency evacuation drills and include the following information:
1. Identity of the person conducting the drill.
2. Date and time of the drill.
3. Notification method used.
4. Staff members on duty and participating.
5. Number of occupants participating.
6. Special conditions simulated.
7. Problems encountered and corrective actions taken.
8. Weather conditions when occupants were evacuated.
9. Time required to accomplish complete evacuation, or shelter-in-place.
405.6 Notification. Where required by the fire code official, prior notification of emergency evacuation drills shall be given to the fire code official.
405.7 Initiation. Emergency drills shall be initiated in accordance with Sections 405.7.1 through 405.7.2.
405.7.1 Fire evacuation drills. Where a fire alarm system is provided, emergency evacuation drills shall be initiated by activating the fire alarm system. The fire alarm monitoring company shall be notified prior to the activation of the fire alarm system for drills proposed and again at the conclusion of the transmission and restoration of the fire alarm system to normal mode.
EXCEPTION: | Drills conducted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., in assisted living facilities, group homes, and residential treatment facilities licensed by the state of Washington. |
405.7.2 Shelter-in-place drills. Shelter-in-place drills shall be initiated by the shelter-in-place alert signal, generated by an alerting system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
405.8 Accountability. As building occupants arrive at the assembly point, efforts shall be made to determine if all occupants have been successfully evacuated and/or have been accounted for in the shelter-in-place.
405.9 Recall and reentry. The recall signal initiation shall be manually operated and under the control of the person in charge of the premises or the official in charge of the incident. No one shall reenter the premises until authorized to do so by the official in charge.))
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-0406Employee training and response procedures.
406.1 General. Employees in the occupancies listed in Section 403 shall be trained in the emergency procedures described in their emergency plans. Training shall be based on these plans and as described in Section 404.2 and 404.3.
406.2 Frequency. Employees shall receive training in the contents of the emergency plans and their duties as part of new employee orientation and at least annually thereafter. Records shall be kept and made available to the fire code official upon request.
406.3 Employee training program. Employees shall be trained in fire prevention, evacuation, sheltering-in-place, and fire safety in accordance with Sections 406.3.1 through 406.3.3.
((406.3.1 Fire prevention training. Employees shall be apprised of the fire hazards of the materials and processes to which they are exposed. Each employee shall be instructed in the proper procedures for preventing fires in the conduct of their assigned duties.
406.3.2 Evacuation training. Employees shall be familiarized with the fire alarm and evacuation signals, their assigned duties in the event of an alarm or emergency, evacuation routes, areas of refuge, exterior assembly areas and procedures for evacuation.
406.3.3 Fire safety training. Employees assigned firefighting duties shall be trained to know the locations and proper use of portable fire extinguishers or other manual firefighting equipment and the protective clothing or equipment required for its safe and proper use.))
406.3.4 Emergency shelter-in-place training. Where a facility has a shelter-in-place plan, employees shall be trained on the alert and recall signals, communication system, location of emergency supplies, the use of the incident notification and alarm system, and their assigned duties and procedures in the event of an alarm or emergency.
406.4 Emergency lockdown training. This section is not adopted.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 17-18-060, filed 9/1/17, effective 10/2/17)
WAC 51-54A-0605((Electrical equipment, wiring and hazards.))Reserved.
((
605.11 Solar photovoltaic power systems. Installation, modification, or alteration of solar photovoltaic power systems shall comply with this section. Due to the emerging technologies in the solar photovoltaic industry, it is understood fire code officials may need to amend prescriptive requirements of this section to meet the requirements for firefighter access and product installations. Section 104.9 Alternative materials and methods of this code shall be considered when approving the installation of solar photovoltaic power systems. Solar photovoltaic power systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 605.11.1 through 605.11.2, the International Building Code and chapter 19.28 RCW.605.11.1.1 Roof access points. Roof access points shall be located in areas that do not require the placement of ground ladders over openings such as windows or doors, and located at strong points of building construction in locations where the access point does not conflict with overhead obstructions such as tree limbs, wires or signs.
605.11.1.2 Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 residential and buildings built under the International Residential Code. Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 residential and buildings built under the International Residential Code shall comply with Sections 605.11.1.2.1 through 605.11.1.2.5.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Residential dwellings with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system installed. |
| 2. Residential dwellings with approved mechanical or passive ventilation systems. |
| 3. Where the fire code official determines that the slope of the roof is too steep for emergency access. |
| 4. Where the fire code official determines that vertical ventilation tactics will not be utilized. |
| 5. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where the total combined area of the solar array does not exceed thirty-three percent as measured in plan view of the total roof area of the structure, where the solar array will measure 1,000 sq. ft. or less in area, and where a minimum eighteen inches unobstructed pathway shall be maintained along each side of any horizontal ridge. |
605.11.1.2.1 Size of solar photovoltaic array.
1. Each photovoltaic array shall be limited to 150 feet (45,720 mm) by 150 feet (45,720 mm). Multiple arrays shall be separated by a 3-foot wide (914 mm) clear access pathway.
2. Panels/modules shall be located up to the roof ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire code official has determined vertical ventilation techniques will not be employed.
605.11.1.2.5 Allowance for smoke ventilation operations. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 residential and buildings built under the International Residential Code shall be located not less than 18 inches (457 mm) from the ridge in order to allow for fire department smoke ventilation operations.
EXCEPTION: | Panels and modules shall be permitted to be located up to the roof ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire chief has been provided or where the fire chief has determined vertical ventilation techniques will not be employed. |
605.11.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with Section 605.11 and this section. Setback requirements shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays.))
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-54A-0607Section 607—Commercial kitchen hoods.
[M]607.2 Where required. A Type I hood shall be installed at or above all commercial cooking appliances and domestic cooking appliances used for commercial purposes that produce grease laden vapors.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Factory-built commercial exhaust hoods that are listed and labeled in accordance with UL 710, and installed in accordance with Section 304.1 of the International Mechanical Code, shall not be required to comply with Sections 507.1.5, 507.2.3, 507.2.5, 507.2.8, 507.3.1, 507.3.3, 507.4 and 507.5 of the International Mechanical Code. |
| 2. Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are listed and labeled in accordance with UL 710B, and installed in accordance with Section 304.1 of the International Mechanical Code, shall not be required to comply with Sections 507.1.5, 507.2.3, 507.2.5, 507.2.8, 507.3.1, 507.3.3, 507.4 and 507.5 of the International Mechanical Code. Spaces in which such systems are located shall be considered to be kitchens and shall be ventilated in accordance with Table 403.3.1.1 of the International Mechanical Code. For the purpose of determining the floor area required to be ventilated, each individual appliance shall be considered as occupying not less than 100 square feet (9.3 m2). |
| 3. Where cooking appliances are equipped with integral down-draft exhaust systems and such appliances and exhaust systems are listed and labeled for the application in accordance with NFPA 96, a hood shall not be required at or above them. |
| 4. A Type I hood shall not be required for an electric cooking appliance where an approved testing agency provides documentation that the appliance effluent contains 5 mg/m3 or less of grease when tested at an exhaust flow rate of 500 cfm (0.236 m3/s) in accordance with UL 710B. |
| 5. A Type I hood shall not be required to be installed in an R-2 occupancy with not more than 16 residents. |
607.2.1 Domestic cooking appliances used for commercial purposes. Domestic cooking appliances utilized for commercial purposes shall be provided with Type I, Type II, or residential hoods as required for the type of appliances and processes in accordance with Table 607.2.1 and Sections 507.2, 507.2.1 and 507.2.2 of the International Mechanical Code.
Table 607.2.1
Type of Hood Required for Domestic Cooking Appliances in the Following Spacesa,b
Type of Space | Type of Cooking | Type of Hood |
Church | 1. Boiling, steaming, and warming precooked food | Type II hood |
| 2. Roasting, pan frying, and deep frying | Type I hood |
Community or party room in apartment and condominium | 1. Boiling, steaming, and warming precooked food | Residential hoodc or Type II hoodd |
| 2. Roasting, pan frying, and deep frying | Type I hood |
Day care | 1. Boiling, steaming, and warming precooked food | Residential hoodc or Type II hoodd |
| 2. Roasting, pan frying, and deep frying | Type I hood |
Dormitory, assisted living facility, nursing home | 1. Boiling, steaming, and warming precooked food | Type II hood |
| 2. Roasting, pan frying, and deep frying | Type I hood |
Office lunch room | 1. Boiling, steaming, and warming precooked food | Residential hoodc or Type II hoodd |
| 2. Roasting, pan frying, and deep frying | Type I hood |
a | Commercial cooking appliances shall comply with Section 507.2 of the International Mechanical Code. |
b | Requirements in this table apply to electric or gas fuel appliances only. Solid fuel appliances or charbroilers require Type I hoods. |
c | Residential hood shall ventilate to the outside. |
d | Type II hood required when more than one appliance is used. |
607.3 Operations, inspection, and maintenance. Commercial cooking systems shall be operated, inspected, and maintained in accordance with Sections 607.3.1 through 607.3.4 and Chapter 11 of NFPA 96.
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 19-02-086, filed 1/2/19, effective 7/1/19)
WAC 51-54A-0701General.
((701.3))701.6 Owner's responsibility. The owner shall maintain an inventory of all required fire-resistance-rated construction, construction installed to resist the passage of smoke and the construction included in Sections 703 through 707 and Sections 602.4.1 and 602.4.2 of the International Building Code. Such construction shall be visually inspected by the owner annually and properly repaired, restored or replaced where damaged, altered, breached or penetrated. Records of inspections and repairs shall be maintained. Where concealed, such elements shall not be required to be visually inspected by the owner unless the concealed space is accessible by the removal or movement of a panel, access door, ceiling tile or similar movable entry to the space.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 19-02-086, filed 1/2/19, effective 7/1/19)
WAC 51-54A-0907Fire alarm and detection systems.
907.2.3 Group E. Group E occupancies shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing one of the following:
1. An emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6; or
2. A system developed as part of a safe school plan adopted in accordance with RCW
28A.320.125 or developed as part of an emergency response system consistent with the provisions of RCW
28A.320.126. The system must achieve all of the following performance standards:
2.1 The ability to broadcast voice messages or customized announcements;
2.2 Includes a feature for multiple sounds, including sounds to initiate a lock down;
2.3 The ability to deliver messages to the interior of a building, areas outside of a building as designated pursuant to the safe school plan, and to personnel;
2.4 The ability for two-way communications;
2.5 The ability for individual room calling;
2.6 The ability for a manual override;
2.7 Installation in accordance with NFPA 72;
2.8 Provide 15 minutes of battery backup for alarm and 24 hours of battery backup for standby; and
2.9 Includes a program for annual inspection and maintenance in accordance with NFPA 72.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less. |
| 2. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall not be required in Group E occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or less, such as individual portable school classroom buildings; provided that activation of the manual fire alarm system initiates an approved occupant notification signal in accordance with Section 907.5. |
| 3. Where an existing approved alarm system is in place, an emergency voice/alarm system is not required in any portion of an existing Group E building undergoing any one of the following repairs, alteration or addition: |
| 3.1 Alteration or repair to an existing building including, without limitation, alterations to rooms and systems, and/or corridor configurations, not exceeding 35 percent of the fire area of the building (or the fire area undergoing the alteration or repair if the building is comprised of two or more fire areas); or |
| 3.2 An addition to an existing building, not exceeding 35 percent of the fire area of the building (or the fire area to which the addition is made if the building is comprised of two or more fire areas). |
| 4. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all of the following apply: |
| 4.1 Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors. |
| 4.2 Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and similar areas are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices. |
| 4.3 Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices. |
| 5. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where all of the following apply: |
| 5.1 The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. |
| 5.2 The emergency voice/alarm communication system will activate on sprinkler waterflow. |
| 5.3 Manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location. |
907.2.3.1 Sprinkler systems or detection. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
((907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that notifies the occupant notification system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2, 907.2.6.3.3 and 907.2.6.4.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas of Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies shall not be required at exits if located at nurses' control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continually accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.4.2 are not exceeded. |
| 2. Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by the fire code official.)) |
907.2.6.1 Group I-1. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.4.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. For Group I-1 Condition 1 occupancies, smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. |
| 2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies. |
907.2.6.4 Group I-4 occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group I-4 occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group I-4 occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less. |
| 2. Emergency voice alarm communication systems meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall not be required in Group I-4 occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or less, provided that activation of the manual fire alarm system initiates an approved occupant notification signal in accordance with Section 907.5. |
907.5.2.1.2 Maximum sound pressure. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. For systems operating in public mode, the maximum sound pressure level shall not exceed 30 dBA over the average ambient sound level. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.
((907.10))907.11 NICET: National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies and ESA/NTS: Electronic Security Association/National Training School.
((907.10.1))907.11.1 Scope. This section shall apply to new and existing fire alarm systems.
((907.10.2))907.11.2 Design review: All construction documents shall be reviewed by a NICET III, an ESA/NTS Certified Fire Alarm Designer (CFAD) Level III Fire in fire alarms, or a licensed professional engineer (PE) in Washington prior to being submitted for permitting. The reviewing professional shall submit a stamped, signed, and dated letter; or a verification method approved by the local authority having jurisdiction indicating the system has been reviewed and meets or exceeds the design requirements of the state of Washington and the local jurisdiction (effective July 1, 2018).
907.10.3 Testing/maintenance: All inspection, testing, maintenance and programing not defined as "electrical construction trade" by chapter 19.28 RCW shall be completed by a NICET II or ESA/NTS Certified Fire Alarm Technician (CFAT) Level II Fire in fire alarms (effective July 1, 2018). AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-0909Smoke control systems.
909.6.3 Pressurized stairways and elevator hoistways. Where stairways or elevator hoistways are pressurized, such pressurization systems shall comply with the requirements of Section 909.20 of this code for stair pressurization and 909.21 of the International Building Code and Fire Code as necessary to determine that the stairway or elevator hoistways meet the pressurization requirements of the code. Stairway and elevator hoistway pressurization systems in high-rise buildings, underground buildings, and in airport traffic control towers shall comply with IBC and IFC Sections 909 as smoke control systems.
Stairway pressurization systems in other than high-rise buildings, underground buildings, or airport traffic control towers are smoke control systems but shall only be required to comply with the following IBC 909 Sections: 909.1, 909.2, 909.3, 909.6 with the exception of Section 909.6.1, 909.10 with the exception of Sections 909.10.2 and 909.10.3, 909.11 with the exception of Section 909.11.1, 909.12 with the exception of Sections 909.12.3.2, 909.13, 909.14, 909.17, 909.18 with the exception of Sections 909.18.2 and 909.18.9, 909.19, 909.20.5, and 909.20.6. Design drawings shall include a description of system operation, the conditions for system testing and the criteria for system acceptance to achieve the code minimum performance of the smoke control system. Stairway pressurization systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 909.20 of this code.
Elevator hoistway pressurization systems in other than high-rise buildings, underground buildings, or airport traffic control towers are smoke control systems but shall only be required to comply with the following IBC 909 Sections: 909.1, 909.2, 909.3, 909.6 with the exception of Section 909.6.1, 909.10 with the exception of Sections 909.10.2 and 909.10.3, 909.11 with the exception of Section 909.11.1, 909.12 with the exception of Sections 909.12.3.2, 909.13, 909.14, 909.17, 909.18 with the exception of Sections 909.18.2 and 909.18.9, 909.19, and 909.21 with the exception of Sections 909.21.2, 909.21.9, and 909.21.10. Design drawings shall include a description of system operation, the conditions for system testing and the criteria for system acceptance to achieve the code minimum performance of the smoke control system. Elevator hoistway pressurization systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 909.20 of this code.
909.21.12 Hoistway venting. Hoistway venting required by Section 3009 of the state building code need not be provided for pressurized elevator shafts.
909.21.13 Machine rooms. Elevator machine rooms shall be pressurized in accordance with this section unless separated from the hoistway shaft by construction in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-0915Carbon monoxide detection.
915.1 General. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in new buildings in accordance with Sections 915.1.1 through 915.6. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in existing buildings in accordance with Chapter 11 of the International Fire Code.
915.1.1 Where required. Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in Group I and R occupancies and in classrooms in Group E occupancies in the locations specified in Section 915.2 where any of the conditions in Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6 exist.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. R-2 occupancies, with the exception of R-2 college dormitories, are required to install carbon monoxide detectors without exception. |
| 2. Sleeping units or dwelling units in I and R-1 occupancies and R-2 college dormitories, hotel, DOC prisons and work releases and assisted living facilities and residential treatment facilities licensed by the state of Washington, which do not themselves contain a fuel-burning appliance, a fuel-burning fireplace, or have an attached garage, need not be provided with carbon monoxide alarms provided that they comply with the exceptions of Section 915.1.4. |
((915.1.2 Fuel-burning appliances and fuel-burning fireplaces. Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms that contain a fuel-burning appliance or a fuel-burning fireplace.
915.1.3 Forced-air furnaces. Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms served by a fuel-burning, forced-air furnace.
EXCEPTION: | Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms where carbon monoxide detection is provided in the first room or area served by each main duct leaving the furnace, and the carbon monoxide alarm signals are automatically transmitted to an approved location. |
915.1.4 Fuel-burning appliances outside of dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms. Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms located in buildings that contain fuel-burning appliances or fuel-burning fireplaces.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms where there are no communicating openings between the fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom. |
| 2. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms where carbon monoxide detection is provided in one of the following locations: |
| 2.1 In an approved location between the fuel burning appliance or fuel burning fireplace, and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom. |
| 2.2 On the ceiling of the room containing the fuel burning appliance or fuel burning fireplace. |
915.1.5 Private garages. Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms in buildings with attached private garages.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required where there are no communicating openings between the private garage and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom. |
| 2. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms located more than one story above or below a private garage. |
| 3. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required where the private garage connects to the building through an open-ended corridor. |
| 4. Where carbon monoxide detection is provided in an approved location between openings to a private garage and dwelling units, sleeping units or classrooms, carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in the dwelling units, sleeping units or classrooms. |
915.1.6 Exempt garages. For determining compliance with Section 915.1.5, an open parking garage complying with Section 406.5 of the International Building Code or an enclosed parking garage complying with Section 406.6 of the International Building Code shall not be considered a private garage.
915.2 Locations. Where required by Section 915.1.1, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in the locations specified in Sections 915.2.1 through 915.2.3.))
915.2.1 Dwelling units. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each level of the dwelling. Where a fuel-burning appliance or a fuel-burning fireplace is located within a bedroom or its attached bathroom, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed within the bedroom.
915.2.2 Sleeping units. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in sleeping units.
EXCEPTION: | Carbon monoxide detection shall be allowed to be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping unit where the sleeping unit or its attached bathroom does not contain a fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace and is not served by a forced air furnace. |
915.2.3 Group E occupancies. When required by Section 915.1 in new buildings, or by Chapter 11 of the International Fire Code, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in classrooms in Group E occupancies. Carbon monoxide alarm signals shall be automatically transmitted to an on-site location that is staffed by school personnel.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Carbon monoxide alarm signals shall not be required to be automatically transmitted to an on-site location that is staffed by school personnel in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less. |
| 2. Carbon monoxide alarm signals shall not be required to be automatically transmitted to an on-site location that is staffed by school personnel in Group E occupancies where an exception contained in Section 915.1 applies, or in Group E occupancies where signals are transmitted to an off-site service monitored by a third party, such as a service that monitors fire protection systems in the building. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-0916((Alerting systems.))Reserved.
((916.1 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. |
916.2 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. |
916.3 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.
916.4 Combination system. Alerting system components and equipment shall be allowed to be used for other purposes.
916.4.1 System priority. The alerting system use shall take precedence over any other use.
916.4.2 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.
916.4.2.1 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.
916.4.2.2 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.
916.4.2.3 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.
916.5 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 916.6. |
916.6 Visibility. Visible and textual notification appliances shall be permitted in addition to alert signal audibility.))
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-54A-0918Alerting systems.
918.1 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. |
918.2 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. |
918.3 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.
918.4 Combination system. Alerting system components and equipment shall be allowed to be used for other purposes.
918.4.1 System priority. The alerting system use shall take precedence over any other use.
918.4.2 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.
918.4.2.1 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.
918.4.2.2 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.
918.4.2.3 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.
918.5 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 916.6. |
918.6 Visibility. Visible and textual notification appliances shall be permitted in addition to alert signal audibility.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-1009Accessible means of egress.
1009.1 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 is required by Section 1006.2 or 1006.3 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 1009.3, 1009.4 or 1009.5. |
| ((3.))2. In assembly areas with ramped aisles or stepped aisles one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of egress travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1029.8. |
| ((4.))3. In parking garages, accessible means of egress are not required to serve parking areas that do not contain accessible parking spaces. |
1009.8 Two-way communication. A two-way communication system complying with Sections 1009.8.1 and 1009.8.2 shall be provided at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators where the two-way communication system is provided within areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.5. |
| 2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with ramps that provide a direct path of egress travel to grade or the level of exit discharge conforming to the provisions of Section 1012. |
| 3. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only service elevators that are not designated as part of the accessible means of egress or serve as part of the required accessible route into a facility. |
| 4. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only freight elevators. |
| 5. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving a private residence elevator. |
| 6. Two-way communication systems are not required in Group I-2 or I-3 facilities. |
1009.8.1 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 a constantly attended location, 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.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-54A-1028((Exit discharge.))Reserved.
((1028.4.1 Width or capacity. The required capacity of egress courts shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except as specified herein. Egress courts serving Group R-3 and U occupancies shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width. The required capacity and width of egress courts shall be unobstructed to a height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
EXCEPTION: | Encroachments complying with Section 1005.7.)) |
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-54A-1204Section 1204—Solar photovoltaic power systems.
1204.1 General. Installation, modification, or alteration of solar photovoltaic power systems shall comply with this section. Due to the emerging technologies in the solar photovoltaic industry, it is understood fire code officials may need to amend prescriptive requirements of this section to meet the requirements for firefighter access and product installations. Section 104.9 Alternative materials and methods of this code shall be considered when approving the installation of solar photovoltaic power systems. Solar photovoltaic power systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 605.11.1 through 605.11.2, the
International Building Code and chapter
19.28 RCW.
1204.4.1 Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 residential and buildings built under the International Residential Code. Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 residential and buildings built under the International Residential Code shall comply with Sections 1204.2.1.1 through 1204.2.1.3.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Residential dwellings with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system installed. |
| 2. Residential dwellings with approved mechanical or passive ventilation systems. |
| 3. Where the fire code official determines that the slope of the roof is too steep for emergency access. |
| 4. Where the fire code official determines that vertical ventilation tactics will not be utilized. |
| 5. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where the total combined area of the solar array does not exceed thirty-three percent as measured in plan view of the total roof area of the structure, where the solar array will measure 1,000 sq. ft. or less in area, and where a minimum eighteen inches unobstructed pathway shall be maintained along each side of any horizontal ridge. |
1204.6 Size of solar photovoltaic array.
1. Each photovoltaic array shall be limited to 150 feet (45,720 mm) by 150 feet (45,720 mm). Multiple arrays shall be separated by a 3-foot wide (914 mm) clear access pathway.
2. Panels/modules shall be located up to the roof ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire code official has determined vertical ventilation techniques will not be employed.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 19-02-086, filed 1/2/19, effective 7/1/19)
WAC 51-54A-3308Owner's responsibility for fire protection.
((3308.8))3308.9 Fire safety requirements for buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C construction. Buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C construction designed to be greater than six stories above grade plane shall meet the following requirements during construction unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
1. Standpipes shall be provided in accordance with Section 3313.
2. A water supply for fire department operations, as approved by the fire code official and the fire chief.
3. Where building construction exceeds six stories above grade plane, at least one layer of noncombustible protection where required by Section 602.4 of the International Building Code shall be installed on all building elements more than four floor levels, including mezzanines, below active mass timber construction before erecting additional floor levels.
EXCEPTION: | Shafts and vertical exit enclosures shall not be considered a part of the active mass timber construction. |
4. Where building construction exceeds six stories above grade plane required exterior wall coverings shall be installed on all floor levels more than four floor levels, including mezzanines, below active mass timber construction before erecting additional floor level.
EXCEPTION: | Shafts and vertical exit enclosures shall not be considered a part of the active mass timber construction. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-54A-3601Marinas—Scope.
((3601.1.2))3601.3 Permits. For permits to operate marine motor fuel-dispensing stations, application of flammable or combustible finishes, and hot works, see Section 105.6.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-54A-5306Medical gas systems.
5306.1 General. Compressed gases at hospitals and similar facilities intended for inhalation or sedation including, but not limited to, analgesia systems for dentistry, podiatry, veterinary and similar uses shall comply with Sections 5306.2 through 5306.4 in addition to other requirements of this chapter.
EXCEPTION: | All new distribution piping, supply manifolds, connections, regulators, valves, alarms, sensors and associated equipment shall be in accordance with the Plumbing Code. |
((5306.4))5306.5 Medical gas systems. The maintenance and testing of medical gas systems including, but not limited to, distribution piping, supply manifolds, connections, pressure regulators and relief devices and valves, shall comply with the maintenance and testing requirements of NFPA 99 and the general provisions of this chapter.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 17-10-028, filed 4/25/17, effective 5/26/17)
WAC 51-54A-5307((Carbon dioxide (CO2) systems.))Reserved.
((5307.1 General. Carbon dioxide systems with more than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of carbon dioxide shall comply with Sections 5307.2 through 5307.5.2.))
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-54A-5601General.
5601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of explosives, explosive materials, and small arms ammunition. The manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of fireworks shall be governed by chapter
70.77 RCW, and by chapter 212-17 WAC and local ordinances consistent with chapter 212-17 WAC.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National Guard. |
| 2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopoeia. |
| 3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition when packaged in accordance with DOT packaging requirements. |
| 4. The possession, storage and use of not more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and 10,000 small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption. |
| 5. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities. |
| 6. Special industrial explosive devices which in the aggregate contain less than 50 pounds (23 kg) of explosive materials. |
| 7. The possession, storage and use of blank industrial-power load cartridges when packaged in accordance with DOT packaging regulations. |
| 8. Transportation in accordance with DOT 49 C.F.R. Parts ((100-178))100-185. |
| 9. Items preempted by federal regulations. |
5601.1.1 Explosive material standard. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, NFPA 495 shall govern the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use of explosive materials. See also chapter
70.74 RCW and chapter 296-52 WAC.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-54A-5704Storage.
5704.2.11 Underground tanks. Underground storage of flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply with Section ((3404.2))5704.2 and Sections ((3404.2.11.1))5704.2.11.1 through ((3404.2.11.5.2))5704.2.11.4.2. Corrosion protection shall comply with WAC 173-360-305.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-54A-6108Fire protection.
6108.1 ((Scope))General. Storage, handling and transportation of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and the installation of LP-gas equipment pertinent to systems for such uses shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 58. Properties of LP-gas shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B of NFPA 58.
EXCEPTION: | The use and storage of listed propane fired barbeque grills on R-2 decks and balconies with an approved container not exceeding a water capacity of 20 pounds (9 kg) that maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches on all sides, unless listed for lesser clearances. |
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 17-10-028, filed 4/25/17, effective 5/26/17)
WAC 51-54A-8200((Appendix N—))International Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
((N))101.5 Additions or alterations. Additions or alterations may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, provided the addition or alteration conforms to that required for a new building or structure.
EXCEPTION: | Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive. See Sections 402.3, 601.1 and Appendix A. |
Additions or alterations shall not cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate access in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits or access; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
((N))108.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the International Building Code, the code official may require site plans which include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings, and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan.
((N))108.4 Vegetation management plans. When required by the code official or when utilized by the permit applicant pursuant to Section 502, vegetation management plans shall be prepared and shall be submitted to the code official for review and approval as part of the plans required for a permit. See Appendix B.
((N))108.7 Vicinity plan. When required by the code official, the requirements for site plans shall include details regarding the vicinity within 300 feet (91,440 mm) of property lines, including other structures, slope, vegetation, fuel breaks, water supply systems and access roads.
((N))402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the International Fire Code.
((N))402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.
((N))402.2 Individual structures. Individual structures shall comply with Sections 402.2.1 and 402.2.2.
((N))402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the International Fire Code.
((N))402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.
EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Structures constructed to meet the requirements for the class of ignition-resistant construction specified in Table N503.1 for a nonconforming water supply. |
| 2. Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings with a floor area of not more than 600 square feet (56 m2). |
((N))402.3 Existing conditions. Existing address markers, roads and fire protection equipment shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.
Table N503.1
Ignition-Resistant Constructiona
| Fire Hazard Severity |
| Moderate Hazard | High Hazard | Extreme Hazard |
| Water Supplyb | Water Supplyb | Water Supplyb |
Defensible Spacec | Conforming | Nonconforming | Conforming | Nonconforming | Conforming | Nonconforming |
Nonconforming | IR 2 | IR 1 | IR 1 | IR 1 N.C. | IR 1 N.C. | Not Permitted |
Conforming | IR 3 | IR 2 | IR 2 | IR 1 | IR 1 | IR 1 N.C. |
1.5 x Conforming | Not Required | IR 3 | IR 3 | IR 2 | IR 2 | IR 1 |
| aAccess shall be in accordance with Section 402. |
| bWater supply shall be in accordance with Section 402.1. |
| IR 1 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 504. |
| IR 2 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 505. |
| IR 3 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 506. |
| N.C. = Exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and the exterior surfaces of such walls shall be noncombustible. Usage of log wall construction is allowed. |
| c Conformance based on Section 603. |
((N))403 Access. This section not adopted.
((N))404 Water supply. This section not adopted.
appendix b-vegetation management plan - this appendix is adopted.
appendix ((c))D-fire danger rating system - this appendix is adopted.