CBC 1031.2.1 Operational Constraints/Emergency Escape

[Shawn Ridenhour]

We are working on a new Type VA Hotel project with a few rooms facing the pool deck. The local Health Department does is not allowing operable windows (even with a permanently limiting device to a maximum of 4") per CBC 1031.2.1 Exception:

1031.2.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings and anyexit doors shall be maintained free of any obstructions
other than those allowed by this section and shall be oper-ational from inside the room without the use of keys or tools. Window-opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serv-ingas a required emergency escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at
all times.
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for useby the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with Califor-nia Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of Part 2.

Exception: Group R-1 occupancies provided with a monitored fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8 and designed in accordance with NFPA​

13 may have openable windows permanently restricted to a maximum 4-inch (102 mm) open position.​

With the exception, it seems like the window is essentially fixed, you could fix it to a maximum of 0", seems like there should be a minimum so that it could be forced open with the assistance of Fire if needed. Anyone else had experience with this? We would rather call them fixed and call it a day, but the emergency escape and rescue is required for R-1 Type VA.

 

[Yikes]

What specific code section is the Health Department citing that prohibits openings that are <4" wide? Pool perimeter fencing has this kind of opening all the time.

 

[Shawn Ridenhour]

The Health Code specifically says windows cannot be part of the enclosure:

3119B.1 Enclosure. The pool shall be enclosed by one or a combination of the following: a fence, portion of a building, wall, or other approved durable enclosure.
Doors, windows, gates of living units or associated private premises shall not be permitted as part of the pool enclosure. The enclosure, doors and gates shall meet all of the following specifications:

The reviewer is taking the windows to heart, even with a permanently fixed limiter at 4".....just one more battle to overcome!