Door Classifications & Sizing in IBC

[Stanovby]

Are there door classifications for the International Building code? We do a lot of projects in New York city & we list the doors as class1 or class2, etc. Does the International Building Code have a similar classification? I could not find anything, or maybe I need to look at the IFC code? Also is there an Egress capacity calculation for each door. In NYC we use 0.2" per occupant.

 

[RLGA]

There are no door classifications in the IBC. Doors need to meet fire-resistance and smoke control requirements depending on their application and are designated by hourly ratings and type of glazing per IBC Table 716.1(2).

NFPA 80, Annex D, includes the former alphabetical classifications (Class A, B, C, D, and E) that I believe were started by UL, but these are rarely used, although some manufacturers and professionals still use them (old habits...).

 

[walker.t]

Also is there an Egress capacity calculation for each door. In NYC we use 0.2" per occupant.

Yes, per the following:

2021 IBC 1005.2 Minimum width Based on Component
The minimum width, in inches, of any means of egress components shall not be less than that specified for such component, elsewhere in this code.

“Elsewhere in this code” for doors is IBC 1010.1.1 Size of Doors, too much information to quote, it gives various minimum widths.

You then need to compare the minimum width for the door with the required capacity based on occupant load in 1005.3. That directs you to 1005.3.2 which has the 0.2”/occupant value and the exception allowing 0.15”/occupant in sprinklered buildings with an emergency voice/alarm communication system.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

And then you have to remember that the egress width of a door isn't the nominal width of the door leaf. The egress width is measured from the door stop to the face of the door when it's open 90 degrees. So a 36-inch door doesn't have an egress capacity if 189 people. A typical 36-inch door hs about 33 inches of clear opening, so the capacity is 165.

 

[Stanovby]

Ok, that's very helpful. Thanks everyone. I am not sure that I need any fire rated doors. This space is not sprinklered, & the only new exterior door is a metal door with 1/4" tempered glass. There is an existing one there now & we are replacing it with a single door. It's a metal stud with Brick veneer building located in Washington D. C.