jar546
Forum Coordinator
Interpretation:
Question in Detail:
We are in the process of updating a fire alarm system in a Group R-2 (dormitory) setting, transitioning from existing horn notification appliances to a new voice alarm system.
Inquiry:
Does the 2018 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) categorize this as a Level 1 alteration or a Level 2 alteration? Is this considered a "reconfiguration of system" that would elevate it to a Level 2 classification?
Interpretation of the IEBC:
This interpretation is also relevant to the 2021 and 2024 versions of the IEBC.
Using the work area compliance approach, repairs are defined as the restoration or replacement of damaged materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures to maintain them in a sound condition concerning existing loads or performance standards.
Per Section 602 of the 2018 IEBC, Level 1 alterations involve the removal and replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures with new ones that fulfill the same function. Level 1 alterations are the most straightforward type of modifications and do not include the reconfiguration of spaces or the removal and/or relocation of walls, doors, or windows.
On the other hand, Section 603 defines Level 2 alterations as those involving space reconfiguration, the addition or removal of any doors or windows, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of new equipment.
Considering the fire alarm system is not impaired, its replacement would not qualify as a repair. The substitution of horn notification appliances with a new voice alarm system does not entail space reconfiguration nor does it necessarily involve the reconfiguration or extension of the fire alarm system itself.
Therefore, it is our view that replacing the horn notification appliances with a new voice alarm system does not meet the criteria for a Level 2 alteration and would more accurately be classified as a Level 1 alteration.
Question in Detail:
We are in the process of updating a fire alarm system in a Group R-2 (dormitory) setting, transitioning from existing horn notification appliances to a new voice alarm system.
Inquiry:
Does the 2018 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) categorize this as a Level 1 alteration or a Level 2 alteration? Is this considered a "reconfiguration of system" that would elevate it to a Level 2 classification?
Interpretation of the IEBC:
This interpretation is also relevant to the 2021 and 2024 versions of the IEBC.
Using the work area compliance approach, repairs are defined as the restoration or replacement of damaged materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures to maintain them in a sound condition concerning existing loads or performance standards.
Per Section 602 of the 2018 IEBC, Level 1 alterations involve the removal and replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment, or fixtures with new ones that fulfill the same function. Level 1 alterations are the most straightforward type of modifications and do not include the reconfiguration of spaces or the removal and/or relocation of walls, doors, or windows.
On the other hand, Section 603 defines Level 2 alterations as those involving space reconfiguration, the addition or removal of any doors or windows, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of new equipment.
Considering the fire alarm system is not impaired, its replacement would not qualify as a repair. The substitution of horn notification appliances with a new voice alarm system does not entail space reconfiguration nor does it necessarily involve the reconfiguration or extension of the fire alarm system itself.
Therefore, it is our view that replacing the horn notification appliances with a new voice alarm system does not meet the criteria for a Level 2 alteration and would more accurately be classified as a Level 1 alteration.
