Communicating Openings

[JFO]

Question concerning section 915.1.4 of the IBC. Specifically it's mention of "communicating openings" in the exception of the below section...

915.1.4 Fuel-Burning Appliances Outside of Dwelling Units, Sleeping Units and Classrooms
Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms located in buildings that contain fuel-burning appliances or fuel-burning fireplaces.
Exceptions:

1. Carbon monoxide detection shall not be required in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms without communicating openings between the fuel-burning appliance or fuel-burning fireplace and the dwelling unit, sleeping unit or classroom.

This specific circumstance concerns a utility room in a residential apartment building containing 3 gas fired water heaters that are power vented directly to the exterior of the building. No exhaust duct work or gas piping runs through any of the dwelling units. There is however a door that serves as access to the utility room. That door leads to the hallway that serves the entry of the dwelling units.

Ultimately the question is; are the utility room's door and the dwelling unit doors considered "communicating openings" per this exception? Are carbon monoxide detectors then required in the dwelling units?

 

[RLGA]

In the strictest sense of interpretation, I would say yes, they are "communicating openings." If the hallway was an open-air hallway (i.e., unenclosed at the ends, but dwelling units along the length), my answer would be no