Is anyone requiring an access panel for bathroom fans in fire resistance rated floor/ceilings such as hotels and apartments? 2009 IMC 306.1 requires access without removing permanent construction or disabling the function of the rated assembly. Most of the fans I see cannot be replaced by removal through the radiation damper or worked on without removing the damper.
I also have an apartment in which in-line bathroom fans were installed a distance from the damper opening in the rated floor/ceiling assembly. The damper is a boot style which leaves no access for repair or removal of the fan. 2009 IMC 306.3 requires a 20" x 30" clear access opening which seems like overkill but may be necessary if work or repair is required on the fan. Any thoughts?
Thank you.
I also have an apartment in which in-line bathroom fans were installed a distance from the damper opening in the rated floor/ceiling assembly. The damper is a boot style which leaves no access for repair or removal of the fan. 2009 IMC 306.3 requires a 20" x 30" clear access opening which seems like overkill but may be necessary if work or repair is required on the fan. Any thoughts?
Thank you.