SECTION 308
INSTITUTIONAL GROUP I
308.1 Institutional Group I. Institutional Group I occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, in which people are cared for or live in a supervised environment, having physical limitations because of health or age are harbored for medical treatment or other care or treatment, or in which people are detained for penal or correctional purposes or in which the liberty of the occupants is restricted. Institutional occupancies shall be classified as Group I-1, I-2, I-3 or I-4.
308.2 Group I-1. This occupancy shall include buildings, structures or parts thereof housing more than 16 persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment that provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
Residential board and care facilities
Assisted living facilities
Halfway houses
Group homes
Congregate care facilities
Social rehabilitation facilities
Alcohol and drug centers
Convalescent facilities
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as a Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. A facility such as above, housing at least six and not more than 16 persons, shall be classified as Group R-4.
308.3 Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis for more than five persons who are not capable of self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
Hospitals
Nursing homes (both intermediate care facilities and
skilled nursing facilities)
Mental hospitals
Detoxification facilities
A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.
308.3.1 Child care facility. A child care facility that provides care on a 24-hour basis to more than five children 21/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-2.
308.4 Group I-3. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures that are inhabited by more than five persons who are under restraint or security. An I-3 facility is occupied by persons who are generally incapable of self-preservation due to security measures not under the occupants’ control. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
Prisons
Jails
Reformatories
Detention centers
Correctional centers
Prerelease centers
Buildings of Group I-3 shall be classified as one of the occupancy conditions indicated in Sections 308.4.1 through308.4.5 (see Section 408.1).
IBC - SECTION 907 - ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
IBC - SECTION 310 - RESIDENTIAL GROUP R
SECTION 310
RESIDENTIAL GROUP R
310.1 Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or when not regulated by the International Residential occupancies shall include the following:
R-1 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including:
Boarding houses (transient)
Hotels (transient)
Motels (transient)
R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including:
Apartment houses
Boarding houses (not transient)
Convents
Dormitories
Fraternities and sororities
Hotels (nontransient)
Monasteries
Motels (nontransient)
Vacation timeshare properties
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer occupants are permitted to comply with the construction requirements for Group R-3.
R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4 or I, including:
Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling units.
Adult facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours.
Child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours.
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons. Adult and child care facilities that are within a single- family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code.
R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted living facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.
Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3, except as otherwise provided for in this code, or shall comply with the International Residential Code.
RESIDENTIAL GROUP R
310.1 Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or when not regulated by the International Residential occupancies shall include the following:
R-1 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including:
Boarding houses (transient)
Hotels (transient)
Motels (transient)
R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including:
Apartment houses
Boarding houses (not transient)
Convents
Dormitories
Fraternities and sororities
Hotels (nontransient)
Monasteries
Motels (nontransient)
Vacation timeshare properties
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer occupants are permitted to comply with the construction requirements for Group R-3.
R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4 or I, including:
Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling units.
Adult facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours.
Child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours.
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer persons. Adult and child care facilities that are within a single- family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code.
R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted living facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.
Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3, except as otherwise provided for in this code, or shall comply with the International Residential Code.
IBC - SECTION 907 - ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
SECTION 907
ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
[F] 907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.
[F] 907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval prior to system installation. Construction documents shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
1. A floor plan which indicates the use of all rooms.
2. Locations of alarm-initiating and notification appliances.
3. Alarm control and trouble signaling equipment.
4. Annunciation.
5. Power connection.
6. Battery calculations.
7. Conductor type and sizes.
8. Voltage drop calculations.
9. Manufacturers, model numbers and listing information
for equipment, devices and materials.
10. Details of ceiling height and construction.
11. The interface of fire safety control functions.
[F] 907.1.2 Equipment. Systems and their components shall be listed and approved for the purpose for which they are installed.
[F]907.2 Where required. An approved manual, automatic or manual and automatic fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.9, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code. Where automatic sprinkler protection installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 is provided and connected to the building fire alarm system, automatic heat detection required by this section shall not be required. The automatic fire detectors shall be smoke detectors. Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of automatic smoke detection, other automatic fire detection shall be allowed.
[F]907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an occupant load of 300 or more. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an approved, constantly attended location.
[F] 907.2.1.2 Emergency power. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with an approved emergency power source.
[F] 907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E 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. Group E occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all the following apply:
2.1. Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors with alarm verification.
2.2. Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and the like are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
2.3. Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
2.4. Off-premises monitoring is provided.
2.5. The capability to activate the evacuation signal from a central point is provided.
2.6. In buildings where normally occupied
spaces are provided with a two-way communication system between such spaces and a constantly attended receiving station from where a general evacuation alarm can be sounded, except in locations specifically designated by the fire code official.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, the notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
[F] 907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group F occupancies that are two or more stories in height and have an occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required when the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with Chapters 37, 39 and 40, respectively, of the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An electrically supervised, automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1 and 907.2.6.2.
Exception: 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 all nurses’ control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continuously accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.3.1 are not exceeded.
[F] 907.2.6.1 Group I-1. Corridors, habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens and waiting areasthat are open to corridors shall be equipped with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.
[F] 907.2.6.2Group I-2. Corridors in nursing homes (both intermediate care and skilled nursing facilities), detoxification facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the corridors by Section 407.2 shall be equippedwith an automatic fire detection system. Hospitals shall be equipped with smoke detection as required in Section 407.2.
Exceptions:
1. Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where patient sleeping units are provided with smoke detectors that comply with UL 268. Such detectors shall provide a visual display on the corridor side of each patient sleeping unit and an audible and visual alarm at the nursing station attending each unit.
2. Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where patient sleeping unit doors are equipped with automatic door-closing devices with integral smoke detectors on the unit sides installed in accordance with their listing, provided that the integral detectors perform the required alerting function.
[F] 907.2.6.3 Group I-3. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual and automatic fire alarm system installed for alerting staff.
[F] 907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal which automatically notifies staff. Presignal systems shall not be used.
[F] 907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.3 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be permitted to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.2.6.3.3 Smoke detectors. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally accessible to residents.
Exceptions:
1. Other approved smoke detection arrangements providing equivalent protection including, but not limited to, placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind protective guards listed for the purpose are allowed when necessary to prevent damage or tampering.
2. Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3.
3. Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping units with four or fewer occupants in smoke compartments that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
[F] 907.2.7 Group M. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group M occupancies having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. The initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box shall initiate alarm notification appliances as required by Section 907.9.
Exceptions:
1. Covered mall buildings complying with Section 402.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will automatically activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a water flow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be allowed to be used for other announcements provided the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.
[F] 907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
[F] 907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow; and 2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
[F] 907.2.8.2 Automatic fire alarm system. An automatic fire alarm system shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic fire detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
[F] 907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be installed as required by Section 907.2.10. In buildings that are not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the smoke alarms in sleeping units shall be connected to an emergency electrical system and shall be annunciated by sleeping unit at a constantly attended location from which the fire alarm system is capable of being manually activated.
[F] 907.2.9 Group R-2.A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where:
1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge;
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit; or
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or Section 903.3.1.2; and
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler flow.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1023.6, Exception 4.
[F] 907.2.10 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and the household fire-warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.10.1 Where required. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in the locations described in Sections 907.2.10.1.1 through 907.2.10.1.3.
[F] 907.2.10.1.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 907.2.10.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1, regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
1. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 907.2.10.1.3 Group I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in sleeping areas in Group I-1 occupancies.
Exception: Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall not be required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.6.
[F] 907.2.10.2 Power source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup in Group R-1 where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
[F] 907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
[F] 907.2.10.4 Acceptance testing. When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each detector and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the household fire warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.11 Special amusement buildings. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in special amusement buildings in accordance with this section.
Exception: In areas where ambient conditions will cause a smoke detection system to alarm, an approved alternative type of automatic detector shall be installed.
[F] 907.2.11.1 Alarm. Activation of any single smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler system or any other automatic fire detection device shall immediately sound an alarm at the building at a constantly attended location from which emergency action can be initiated, including the capability of manual initiation of requirements in Section 907.2.11.2.
[F] 907.2.11.2 System response. The activation of two or more smoke detectors, a single smoke detector with alarm verification, the automatic sprinkler system or other approved fire detection device shall automatically:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level;
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions; and
3. Activate an approved directional exit marking that will become apparent in an emergency. Such system response shall also include activation of a prerecorded message, clearly audible throughout the special amusement building, instructing patrons to proceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signals used in conjunction with the prerecorded message shall produce a sound which is distinctive from other sounds used during normal operation. The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish the above fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.11.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system, which is also allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72, and shall be audible throughout the entire special amusement building.
[F] 907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with a floorused for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
Exceptions:
1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 412 and 907.2.22.
2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3.
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5.
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.
[F] 907.2.12.1 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall operate the emergency voice/alarm communication system. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room which is not provided with sprinkler protection, elevator machine rooms and in elevator lobbies.
2. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94 m3/s). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
3. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
[F] 907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler water-flow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below in accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404 of the International Fire Code. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. As a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:
1. Elevator groups.
2. Exit stairways.
3. Each floor.
4. Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1.
Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page.
[F] 907.2.12.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.
[F] 907.2.12.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall also have the capability to broadcast live voice messages through paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.
[F] 907.2.12.2.3 Standard. The emergency voice/ alarm communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.12.3 Fire department communication system. An approved two-way, fire department communication system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be provided for fire department use. It shall operate between a fire command center complying with Section 911 and elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the enclosed stairway.
Exception: Fire department radio systems where approved by the fire department.
[F] 907.2.13 Atriums connecting more than two stories. A fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.6. Such occupancies in Group A, E orMshall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying withthe requirements of Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.14 High-piled combustible storage areas. An automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.15 Delayed egress locks. Where delayed egress locks are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.8.6, an automatic smoke or heat detection system shall be installed as required by that section.
[F] 907.2.16 Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.17 Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system.
[F] 907.2.18 Underground buildings with smoke exhaust system. Where a smoke exhaust system is installed in an underground building in accordance with this code, automatic fire detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section.
[F] 907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in the following areas:
1. Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.
2. Elevator lobbies.
3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
[F] 907.2.18.2 Alarm required. Activation of the smoke exhaust system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.
[F] 907.2.19 Underground buildings. Where the lowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.19.1 Public address system. Where a fire alarm system is not required by Section 907.2, a public address system shall be provided that shall be capable of transmitting voice communications to the highest level of exit discharge serving the underground portions of the structure and all levels below.
[F] 907.2.20 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m2) in total floor area shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.21 Residential aircraft hangars. A minimum of one listed smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential aircraft hangar as defined in Section 412.3.1 and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or other sounding device to provide an alarm that will be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.
[F] 907.2.22 Airport traffic control towers. An automatic fire detection system shall be provided in airport traffic control towers.
[F] 907.2.23 Battery rooms. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing stationary storage battery systems having a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189.3 L). The detection system shall be supervised by an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or a local alarm that will sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
[F] 907.3 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.3.1 through 907.3.5.
[F] 907.3.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).
[F] 907.3.2 Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm), measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
[F] 907.3.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
[F] 907.3.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by a supervising station, an approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS—CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
[F] 907.3.5 Protective covers. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved.
[F] 907.4 Power supply. The primary and secondary power supplies for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.5 Wiring.Wiring shall comply with the requirements of the ICC Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.
[F] 907.6 Activation. Where an alarm notification system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1. A required automatic fire alarm system.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Required manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.7 Presignal system. Presignal systems shall not be installed unless approved by the fire code official and the fire department. Where a presignal system is installed, 24-hour personnel supervision shall be provided at a location approved by the fire department, in order that the alarm signal can be actuated in the event of fire or other emergency.
[F] 907.8 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m2). The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direction. Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.
[F] 907.8.1 Zoning indicator panel. A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved location. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible alarm-silencing switch.
[F] 907.8.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings with a floor used for human occupancy that is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for all of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:
1. Smoke detectors.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems.
[F] 907.9 Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.
[F] 907.9.1 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.9.1.1 through 907.9.1.4.
Exceptions:
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Section 1002.1.
[F] 907.9.1.1 Public and common areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public areas and common areas.
[F] 907.9.1.2 Employee work areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with a minimum of 20 percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employees.
[F] 907.9.1.3 Groups I-1 and R-1. Group I-1 and R-1 sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.9.1.3 shall be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.
[F] TABLE 907.9.1.3 VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS NUMBER OF SLEEPING UNITS SLEEPING UNITS WITH
VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS
6 to 25 2
26 to 50 4
51 to 75 7
76 to 100 9
101 to 150 12
151 to 200 14
201 to 300 17
301 to 400 20
401 to 500 22
501 to 1,000 5% of total
1,001 and over 50 plus 3 for each 100 over 1,000
[F] 907.9.1.4 Group R-2. In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, all dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with ICC A117.1.
[F] 907.9.2 Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall sound a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm. The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupied space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 70 dBA in occupancies in Groups R and I-1; 90 dBA in mechanical equipment rooms and 60 dBAin other occupancies. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 120 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 105 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.
Exception: Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in critical-care areas of Group I-2 occupancies.
[F] 907.10 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control panel where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.11 Duct smoke detectors. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control panel when a fire alarm system is provided. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open-area detection.
Exceptions:
1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detectors activate the building’s alarm notification appliances.
2. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
[F] 907.12 Access. Access shall be provided to each detector for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
[F] 907.13 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be connected to the building fire alarm system where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code or is otherwise installed.
[F] 907.14 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or the International Fire Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Supervisory service is not required for:
1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.10.
2. Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
[F] 907.15 Automatic telephone-dialing devices. Automatic telephone-dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number unless approved by the fire chief.
[F] 907.16 Acceptance tests. Upon completion of the installation of the fire alarm system, alarm notification appliances and circuits, alarm-initiating devices and circuits, supervisory-signal initiating devices and circuits, signaling line circuits, and primary and secondary power supplies shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.17 Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.
[F] 907.18 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions, and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
[F] 907.19 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.
ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
[F] 907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.
[F] 907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval prior to system installation. Construction documents shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:
1. A floor plan which indicates the use of all rooms.
2. Locations of alarm-initiating and notification appliances.
3. Alarm control and trouble signaling equipment.
4. Annunciation.
5. Power connection.
6. Battery calculations.
7. Conductor type and sizes.
8. Voltage drop calculations.
9. Manufacturers, model numbers and listing information
for equipment, devices and materials.
10. Details of ceiling height and construction.
11. The interface of fire safety control functions.
[F] 907.1.2 Equipment. Systems and their components shall be listed and approved for the purpose for which they are installed.
[F]907.2 Where required. An approved manual, automatic or manual and automatic fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.9, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code. Where automatic sprinkler protection installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 is provided and connected to the building fire alarm system, automatic heat detection required by this section shall not be required. The automatic fire detectors shall be smoke detectors. Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of automatic smoke detection, other automatic fire detection shall be allowed.
[F]907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an occupant load of 300 or more. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an approved, constantly attended location.
[F] 907.2.1.2 Emergency power. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with an approved emergency power source.
[F] 907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group B occupancies having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E 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. Group E occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all the following apply:
2.1. Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors with alarm verification.
2.2. Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and the like are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
2.3. Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
2.4. Off-premises monitoring is provided.
2.5. The capability to activate the evacuation signal from a central point is provided.
2.6. In buildings where normally occupied
spaces are provided with a two-way communication system between such spaces and a constantly attended receiving station from where a general evacuation alarm can be sounded, except in locations specifically designated by the fire code official.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, the notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
[F] 907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group F occupancies that are two or more stories in height and have an occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required when the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with Chapters 37, 39 and 40, respectively, of the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An electrically supervised, automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1 and 907.2.6.2.
Exception: 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 all nurses’ control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continuously accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.3.1 are not exceeded.
[F] 907.2.6.1 Group I-1. Corridors, habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens and waiting areasthat are open to corridors shall be equipped with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.
[F] 907.2.6.2Group I-2. Corridors in nursing homes (both intermediate care and skilled nursing facilities), detoxification facilities and spaces permitted to be open to the corridors by Section 407.2 shall be equippedwith an automatic fire detection system. Hospitals shall be equipped with smoke detection as required in Section 407.2.
Exceptions:
1. Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where patient sleeping units are provided with smoke detectors that comply with UL 268. Such detectors shall provide a visual display on the corridor side of each patient sleeping unit and an audible and visual alarm at the nursing station attending each unit.
2. Corridor smoke detection is not required in smoke compartments that contain patient sleeping units where patient sleeping unit doors are equipped with automatic door-closing devices with integral smoke detectors on the unit sides installed in accordance with their listing, provided that the integral detectors perform the required alerting function.
[F] 907.2.6.3 Group I-3. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual and automatic fire alarm system installed for alerting staff.
[F] 907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal which automatically notifies staff. Presignal systems shall not be used.
[F] 907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.3 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be permitted to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.2.6.3.3 Smoke detectors. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally accessible to residents.
Exceptions:
1. Other approved smoke detection arrangements providing equivalent protection including, but not limited to, placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells or behind protective guards listed for the purpose are allowed when necessary to prevent damage or tampering.
2. Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3.
3. Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping units with four or fewer occupants in smoke compartments that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
[F] 907.2.7 Group M. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group M occupancies having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. The initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box shall initiate alarm notification appliances as required by Section 907.9.
Exceptions:
1. Covered mall buildings complying with Section 402.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system and the alarm notification appliances will automatically activate upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a water flow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be allowed to be used for other announcements provided the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.
[F] 907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
[F] 907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2;
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow; and 2.3. At least one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
[F] 907.2.8.2 Automatic fire alarm system. An automatic fire alarm system shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic fire detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
[F] 907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be installed as required by Section 907.2.10. In buildings that are not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the smoke alarms in sleeping units shall be connected to an emergency electrical system and shall be annunciated by sleeping unit at a constantly attended location from which the fire alarm system is capable of being manually activated.
[F] 907.2.9 Group R-2.A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where:
1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge;
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit; or
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by at least 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, exit court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or Section 903.3.1.2; and
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler flow.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1023.6, Exception 4.
[F] 907.2.10 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and the household fire-warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.10.1 Where required. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in the locations described in Sections 907.2.10.1.1 through 907.2.10.1.3.
[F] 907.2.10.1.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 907.2.10.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1, regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
1. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 907.2.10.1.3 Group I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in sleeping areas in Group I-1 occupancies.
Exception: Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall not be required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.6.
[F] 907.2.10.2 Power source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup in Group R-1 where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
[F] 907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
[F] 907.2.10.4 Acceptance testing. When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each detector and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the household fire warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.11 Special amusement buildings. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be provided in special amusement buildings in accordance with this section.
Exception: In areas where ambient conditions will cause a smoke detection system to alarm, an approved alternative type of automatic detector shall be installed.
[F] 907.2.11.1 Alarm. Activation of any single smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler system or any other automatic fire detection device shall immediately sound an alarm at the building at a constantly attended location from which emergency action can be initiated, including the capability of manual initiation of requirements in Section 907.2.11.2.
[F] 907.2.11.2 System response. The activation of two or more smoke detectors, a single smoke detector with alarm verification, the automatic sprinkler system or other approved fire detection device shall automatically:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level;
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions; and
3. Activate an approved directional exit marking that will become apparent in an emergency. Such system response shall also include activation of a prerecorded message, clearly audible throughout the special amusement building, instructing patrons to proceed to the nearest exit. Alarm signals used in conjunction with the prerecorded message shall produce a sound which is distinctive from other sounds used during normal operation. The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish the above fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.11.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system, which is also allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72, and shall be audible throughout the entire special amusement building.
[F] 907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with a floorused for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
Exceptions:
1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 412 and 907.2.22.
2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3.
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5.
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.
[F] 907.2.12.1 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall operate the emergency voice/alarm communication system. Smoke detectors shall be located as follows:
1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room which is not provided with sprinkler protection, elevator machine rooms and in elevator lobbies.
2. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94 m3/s). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
3. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
[F] 907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler water-flow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below in accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404 of the International Fire Code. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. As a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:
1. Elevator groups.
2. Exit stairways.
3. Each floor.
4. Areas of refuge as defined in Section 1002.1.
Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the overhead page.
[F] 907.2.12.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.
[F] 907.2.12.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall also have the capability to broadcast live voice messages through paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.
[F] 907.2.12.2.3 Standard. The emergency voice/ alarm communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.12.3 Fire department communication system. An approved two-way, fire department communication system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be provided for fire department use. It shall operate between a fire command center complying with Section 911 and elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the enclosed stairway.
Exception: Fire department radio systems where approved by the fire department.
[F] 907.2.13 Atriums connecting more than two stories. A fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.6. Such occupancies in Group A, E orMshall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying withthe requirements of Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.14 High-piled combustible storage areas. An automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.15 Delayed egress locks. Where delayed egress locks are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.8.6, an automatic smoke or heat detection system shall be installed as required by that section.
[F] 907.2.16 Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosols shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by the International Fire Code.
[F] 907.2.17 Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system.
[F] 907.2.18 Underground buildings with smoke exhaust system. Where a smoke exhaust system is installed in an underground building in accordance with this code, automatic fire detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section.
[F] 907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. A minimum of one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in the following areas:
1. Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.
2. Elevator lobbies.
3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.
4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.
[F] 907.2.18.2 Alarm required. Activation of the smoke exhaust system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.
[F] 907.2.19 Underground buildings. Where the lowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.19.1 Public address system. Where a fire alarm system is not required by Section 907.2, a public address system shall be provided that shall be capable of transmitting voice communications to the highest level of exit discharge serving the underground portions of the structure and all levels below.
[F] 907.2.20 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m2) in total floor area shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
[F] 907.2.21 Residential aircraft hangars. A minimum of one listed smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential aircraft hangar as defined in Section 412.3.1 and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or other sounding device to provide an alarm that will be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.
[F] 907.2.22 Airport traffic control towers. An automatic fire detection system shall be provided in airport traffic control towers.
[F] 907.2.23 Battery rooms. An approved automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in areas containing stationary storage battery systems having a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons (189.3 L). The detection system shall be supervised by an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or a local alarm that will sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
[F] 907.3 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.3.1 through 907.3.5.
[F] 907.3.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).
[F] 907.3.2 Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm), measured vertically, from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.
[F] 907.3.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.
[F] 907.3.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by a supervising station, an approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN ALARM SOUNDS—CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.
[F] 907.3.5 Protective covers. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved.
[F] 907.4 Power supply. The primary and secondary power supplies for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.5 Wiring.Wiring shall comply with the requirements of the ICC Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.
[F] 907.6 Activation. Where an alarm notification system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1. A required automatic fire alarm system.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Required manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.7 Presignal system. Presignal systems shall not be installed unless approved by the fire code official and the fire department. Where a presignal system is installed, 24-hour personnel supervision shall be provided at a location approved by the fire department, in order that the alarm signal can be actuated in the event of fire or other emergency.
[F] 907.8 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m2). The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direction. Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.
[F] 907.8.1 Zoning indicator panel. A zoning indicator panel and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved location. The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible alarm-silencing switch.
[F] 907.8.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings with a floor used for human occupancy that is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for all of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:
1. Smoke detectors.
2. Sprinkler water-flow devices.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Other approved types of automatic fire detection devices or suppression systems.
[F] 907.9 Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.
[F] 907.9.1 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.9.1.1 through 907.9.1.4.
Exceptions:
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in exits as defined in Section 1002.1.
[F] 907.9.1.1 Public and common areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public areas and common areas.
[F] 907.9.1.2 Employee work areas. Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with a minimum of 20 percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing impaired employees.
[F] 907.9.1.3 Groups I-1 and R-1. Group I-1 and R-1 sleeping units in accordance with Table 907.9.1.3 shall be provided with a visible alarm notification appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.
[F] TABLE 907.9.1.3 VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS NUMBER OF SLEEPING UNITS SLEEPING UNITS WITH
VISIBLE AND AUDIBLE ALARMS
6 to 25 2
26 to 50 4
51 to 75 7
76 to 100 9
101 to 150 12
151 to 200 14
201 to 300 17
301 to 400 20
401 to 500 22
501 to 1,000 5% of total
1,001 and over 50 plus 3 for each 100 over 1,000
[F] 907.9.1.4 Group R-2. In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, all dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with ICC A117.1.
[F] 907.9.2 Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall sound a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm. The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupied space within the building. The minimum sound pressure levels shall be: 70 dBA in occupancies in Groups R and I-1; 90 dBA in mechanical equipment rooms and 60 dBAin other occupancies. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 120 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 105 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.
Exception: Visible alarm notification appliances shall be allowed in lieu of audible alarm notification appliances in critical-care areas of Group I-2 occupancies.
[F] 907.10 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control panel where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.11 Duct smoke detectors. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control panel when a fire alarm system is provided. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open-area detection.
Exceptions:
1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detectors activate the building’s alarm notification appliances.
2. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
[F] 907.12 Access. Access shall be provided to each detector for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
[F] 907.13 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be connected to the building fire alarm system where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code or is otherwise installed.
[F] 907.14 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or the International Fire Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Supervisory service is not required for:
1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.10.
2. Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
[F] 907.15 Automatic telephone-dialing devices. Automatic telephone-dialing devices used to transmit an emergency alarm shall not be connected to any fire department telephone number unless approved by the fire chief.
[F] 907.16 Acceptance tests. Upon completion of the installation of the fire alarm system, alarm notification appliances and circuits, alarm-initiating devices and circuits, supervisory-signal initiating devices and circuits, signaling line circuits, and primary and secondary power supplies shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.17 Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.
[F] 907.18 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions, and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
[F] 907.19 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.
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Daybreakventure
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Re: IBC - SECTION 907 - ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
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