Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Introduction to International
Building Codes
Lecture One

Think Global Act Local

The international market is more and more accessible
are you ready to practice at a global scale?
LECTURE 1

InternationalPractice adreamtocomerealityformany
graduatesatIonMincu seeemailbelow,severallikethatI
haveseeninthelastyears:

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

International Building Codes for architects

Intr-o lume globala ca aceasta, arhitectul care poate

practica meseria oriunde in lume, sau care poate avea
un Client international cu operatii in multiple continente
trebuie sa cunoasca si sa aplice in proiectare codurile
internationale in constructii pe linga codurile locale.
Cele mai stringente cerinte vor fi urmate.
Traditional, arhitectul este cel mai bine echipat teoretic si
practic pt abordarea cu succes a acestui domeniu.
Ca generalist, arhitectul imbina cunostiintele sale cu ale
colegilor ingineri pt beneficiul proiectului.

LECTURE 1

Class content:

The family of codes and how do they relate to each

other.
Where and when was the IBC adopted and how / where
is it being used.
Content of the building code.
Definitions of key words in the code language.
Code enforcing and code administration.
What other codes are important for a practicing
architect? and how do they relate to IBC.
Few words on its applicability and why architects should
be leaders in code compliance effort.
Code review work flow.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Family of codes:

The family of codes and how do they relate to each

other:

These marked are mostly used in building design.

Before they are used, they must be adopted by local governments.

LECTURE 1

LECTURE 1

Code adoption:

Where and when was

the code adopted and
how / where is it being
used.
By voting, states and
municipal Gov. are
responsible for this
task.
The trend is to adopt
state wide building code
and even country wide.
Further the trend is in
internationalization of
all codes and
regulations called
harmonization
between countries.
IBC is further ahead of
any other code at this
point.

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code adoption in 2014:

Partial list of active versions of IBC by states latest version is not automatically adopted.

LECTURE 1

Code adoption in the state of New Jersey:

In NJ, Statewide Code adoption list:

IBC and IRC is 2009,
International Fire Code is 2006,
International Mechanical Code is 2009,
International Fuel Gas Code is 2009,
International Energy Conservation Code is 2009, and
International Property Maintenance Code is a Local one.
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

NJadopted2006(9)IBCasasubcodetothefamilyofstatecodesused

There are 30 pages of modifications made by NJ - DCA (Dept of Consumers

Affairs) to the IBC 2006(9) building code, making it more complicated to follow.
LECTURE 1

Codes adoption - International

most countries follow IBC with minor local conditions modifications
- see India National Building Code

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

10

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

I am using IBC 2006, 2012 and NFPA 101 - 2012

LECTURE 1

11

NFPA: National Fire Protection Association

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

12

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Life Safety Code similar with IBC most stringent will apply

LECTURE 1

13

Other codes are applied in the state of NJ

National Electric Code 2011, from NFPA,

National Standard Plumbing Code, 2009

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

14

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Other codes are applied in the state of NJ

Sub-codes specific to NJ State only:
Rehabilitation, and
Barrier-Free accessibility sub-codes

LECTURE 1

15

Accessibility Code is free of charge

At state and local level, using ANSI A117.1 is satisfactory to local code
officials, for national and federal funded projects, ADA should be followed.
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

16

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

ADA is not a code is humans' rights legislation

LECTURE 1

17

LECTURE 1

18

Code content:

These marked
are the most
used chapters
by architects.

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Definitions

Definitions of key
words in the code
language.

The code definition

eliminates the
need for personal
interpretations of
terms.

Do not try to rewrite the code

use the exact
terms and
definitions in the
code language.

Codes are sources

of numerous
litigations and
using the proper
language is a good
defense against
clever lawyers.

LECTURE 1

19

Enforcing:

Code enforcing and code administration.

Working in collaboration with codes officials via code compliance

drawings and code review documents is a good way to avoid future
rejections and project delays.
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

20

10

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Enforcing:

Code enforcing and code administration.

Work stop is embarrassing for the architect and brings un-planned cost
overrun and time consuming for the owner not a good place to be.
LECTURE 1

21

Local codes

Municipalities adopts building codes and write zoning regulations,

i.e. land-use-policy, architects must comply with.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

22

11

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

What other codes

are important for a practicing
architect and how do they relate to
IBC ?:
IgCC available since 2012,
makes Green design standards
mandatory when adopted.
Where adopted, sustainability will
no longer be optional as it is today.

IgCC 2012 edition was the last one

in ICC code series, after that it will
be developed and published by
ASHRAE / ANSI.

USGBC will move forward to more

aggressive goals such as NZEB
net zero energy buildings, net zero
water and waste.

LECTURE 1

23

What other codes are available

IBC Chapter 13 reads:
Buildings shall be designed and constructed
in accordance with the International
Energy Conservation Code

Internationally, code officials recognize

the need for a modern, up-to-date energy
conservation code addressing the design
of energy-efficient building envelopes and
installation of energy efficient mechanical,
lighting and power systems through
requirements emphasizing performance.
The International Energy Conservation
Code, .. edition, is designed to meet
these needs through model code
regulations that will result in the optimal
utilization of fossil fuel and non-depletable
resources in all communities, large and
small.
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

24

12

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

What other codes are available

OSHA deals with workers safety in construction and operations of facilities, it is free.

It overlaps IBC in areas of designing stairs, platforms, handrails, guardrails, etc.

Most stringent requirements between the two shall apply.

LECTURE 1

25

What other codes are available

ADA - the law of land
IBC Chapter 11
reads:
Buildings and
facilities shall be
designed and
constructed to be
accessible in
accordance with
this code and ICC
A117.1.
Applicability:
Sites, facilities,
buildings, and
elements required
to be accessible
shall comply with
the applicable
provisions of
Chapters 3
through 9 of
A117.1
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

26

13

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

What other codes

are important
for a practicing
architect: and
how do they
relate to IBC:

NFPA
overlaps with
most chapters of
IBC.

Using NFPA as
a code is by
Client
preference
mostly found in
industrial
building projects.
LECTURE 1

27

What other codes are available

NFPA 101Life Safety

Code is
almost
similar with
IBC fire
egress
requirements

Most
stringent
requirement
shall apply.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

28

14

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

What other codes / standards are available

UL relates to IBC by providing reliable testing for materials and systems required by building
codes.
When specifying a design UL number, the contractor / supplier must comply and architect is
protected

LECTURE 1

29

What other codes / standards are available

UL Labs is a Reliable Testing Lab for construction materials and building

assemblies including the fire resistance components.
Testing trend is to become internationally accepted in an effort to save cost for
products and systems used worldwide.
The cost of testing and certification is very high on manufacturer and on projects.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

30

15

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code intent and applicability

why architects should be leaders in code compliance effort?
Because :

Due to training, education and licensing, the architect has most

understanding of the building as a whole and of all disciplines involved
in the design process and the way buildings will perform to safeguard
the life and property of its occupants and the public at large.

LECTURE 1

31

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications in one or more use groups.

What is the function (s) of your building?

The architect must determine that with the building owner early in
the design process.

Always check the definition at each chapter to make sure you are
using the right language in the code.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

32

16

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications in one or more use groups.

LECTURE 1

33

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications definitions example B group.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

34

17

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications definitions example F group.

LECTURE 1

35

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications definitions example F group.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

36

18

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code review - work flow :

Occupancy classifications definitions H group.

LECTURE 1

37

H1,2,3 Groups - fire hazard :

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

38

19

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

H4 Group - health hazard :

LECTURE 1

39

LECTURE 1

40

Control Areas :
CONTROL AREA.
Spaces within a
building where
quantities of
hazardous
materials not
exceeding the
maximum
allowable
quantities per
control area are
stored, dispensed,
used or handled.
See also the
definition of
Outdoor control
area in the
International Fire
Code.

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

20

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Control Areas :

The following shall

not be classified in
Group H, but shall
be classified in the
occupancy that
they most nearly
resemble:

Buildings utilizing
control areas in
accordance with
Section 414.2 that
contain no more
than the maximum
allowable
quantities per
control area of
hazardous
materials as shown
in Tables 307.1(1)
and 307.1(2).

LECTURE 1

41

H Groups - building chemistry :

How to determine type of chemical hazard ?

How to determine the quantity of chemicals?

By interviewing users groups and visiting their operations.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

42

21

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Code review - work flow :

Construction types.

LECTURE 1

43

Construction types varies with fire resistance ratings:

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

44

22

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Construction types definition:

LECTURE 1

45

Exterior Walls:
Fire separation distance Definition:

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

46

23

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

The height and area for buildings :

Definitions:

LECTURE 1

47

The height and area for buildings :

Definitions:

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

48

24

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Allowable height and area for buildings :

Table:

LECTURE 1

49

Increase height and area for buildings :

Sprinklers Bonuses:

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

50

25

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

Increase height and area for buildings :

Street Frontage Bonuses:

LECTURE 1

51

The concept of unlimited building area :

How to use this concept it is a cost saver.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

52

26

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

The concept of separate building :

The concept of separate building - how to use this concept.

Big help in mixed occupancies

Each portion of a building shall be individually classified in

accordance with Section 302.1.
Where a building contains more than one occupancy group, the
building or portion thereof shall comply with Sections 508.3.1,
508.3.2, 508.3.3 or a combination of these sections.
The allowable area and height of the building or portion thereof
shall be based on the most restrictive allowances for the occupancy
groups under consideration for the type of construction of the
building in accordance with Section 503.1
LECTURE 1

53

The concept of building separation :

How to use this concept.

Separated occupancies shall be individually classified in accordance with

Section 302.1.
Each fire area shall comply with this code based on the occupancy
classification of that portion of the building.
S = sprinkled NS = not sprinkled, NP=not permitted, N= not required
LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

54

27

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

The concept of building separation :

The concept of building separation and how to use this

concept.

Using Party / Fire walls Definition:

Party walls.
Any wall located on a lot line between adjacent buildings, which is used or
adapted for joint service between the two buildings, shall be constructed as a
fire wall in accordance with Section 705. Party walls shall be constructed
without openings and shall create separate buildings.
Fire walls shall have sufficient structural stability under fire conditions to allow
collapse of construction on either side without collapse of the wall for the
duration of time indicated by the required fire-resistance rating.

LECTURE 1

55

The concept of building separation :

Fire wall is a
complex design

Architect and
engineers are
working together
for the most cost
effective solution

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

56

28

Introduction to IBC Lecture 1

1/4/2015

The concept of fire resistance rating

Fire Resistance rated Construction chapter 7 content:

LECTURE 1

57

The concept of fire protection system

This is a specialty Fire protection engineer part of the design

team.

LECTURE 1

Copyright Michael Perciali

All rights reserved

58

29