Library Balcony - Floor Fire Resistance?

[MKALLAY]

I have someone looking at a project that involves an addition to an existing historic building. The existing construction is generally non-combustible (concrete and masonry) and the proposed project could meet height and area requirements including the new addition with a construction type of IIA. At issue is a tall library space that has full height shelving, and a walkway at an intermediate level to access higher shelving. The walkway is of unprotected steel construction. Applicable code is California 2022 (based on IBC 2021)

The question that has come up, is the walkway considered a "floor", and if so, would a fire rating be required as per Table 601? Or, would it be possible to consider this a special occupancy element as per Section 410.2.2 Technical Production Areas: Galleries, Gridirons and Catwalks? In that case, a fire rating of the gallery would not be required. I am leaning towards the latter interpretation but would be interested in any feedback!

 

[Joe.B]

Mezzanine?

 

[walker.t]

The question that has come up, is the walkway considered a "floor", and if so, would a fire rating be required as per Table 601?

Sounds like a mezzanine to me. Per IBC 2021 505.2, the mezzanine does not count towards your story count.

Regarding construction type:

Commentary on IBC 505.2 (partial quote)
This section does not include any special requirements for the construction of a mezzanine or for fire-resistance ratings; therefore, the mezzanine is to be constructed of materials consistent with the construction type of the building. Required fire-resistance ratings are determined on the basis of Table 601 for the appropriate construction type.

Or, would it be possible to consider this a special occupancy element as per Section 410.2.2 Technical Production Areas: Galleries, Gridirons and Catwalks?

No. “Technical production area” is defined in IBC Chapter 2:

2021 IBC definition of Technical Production Area (partial quote)
Open elevated areas or spaces intended for entertainment technicians to walk on and occupy for serving and operating entertainment technology systems and equipment.

Library patrons and staff are not entertainment technicians, books are not entertainment technology systems and equipment.