Adding openings to avoid sprinklers

[Mech]

2009 IBC

I am renovationg an existing building and I need to provide new windows to avoid the requirement for sprinklers.

903.2.11.1 Stories without openings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2) and where there is not provided at least one of the following types of exterior wall openings:1. (omitted - does not apply)

2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling at least 20 square feet in each 50 linear feet, or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the linear distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet.

Is there a maximum sill height above the finished floor? The code excerpt below only indicates that the opening must be accessible and not obstructed. All the windows will be fixed; accessibility is not an issue. Some of the windows will be in storage rooms, so the ability to look out the windows is not a concern.

903.2.11.1.1 Opening dimensions and access. Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Such openings shall be accessible to the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner that fire fighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.

Thanks.

 

[cda]

Do not believe so and as you say they do not have to be openable

 

[fatboy]

I believe the section was geared toward basements, so you should be fine.

 

[Builder Bob]

I am renovationg an existing building and I need to provide new windows to avoid the requirement for sprinklers.

Unless this is a change of occupancy, I don't think they are required ---- See Chapter 34 of the IBC or the IEBC

 

[Mech]

BB - I did not look at the existing building code section / book yet, but what no one else knows is that the existing windows are being closed in. I figured I need to create new openings to offset the ones being removed.