Non-occupied space?

[kurt999]

I'm working in an A/E firm (architect) on a small 24x36 building enclosure for a screening component of a water treatment plant. (IBC 2012 adopted code.)
The only reason for the enclosure is to protect the equipment from freezing.
The building will be unoccupied over 95% of the time. Inside the building, a dumpster fills up slowly that must be periodically emptied. Other than that, the building is entered only for maintenance purposes.
The building is intended to have minimal heat.
So far there are two overhead doors and one person door.

I'd assume this would not be considered "occupiable space" per the code -- ?
I've got some confusion. The code occupancy is -- I assume -- Group F, due to the "processing" nature of the project as a component part of a larger water treatment operation -- so low-hazard F-2 in this case. (I didn't think it could really be Group U?) So it's essentially unoccupied, but do I still need light, ventilation, toilet room, etc., per Group F-2 and occupiable space requirements?
How is this type of building regarded in the code?

Hope this makes sense -- thanks in advance.

 

[classicT]

I would go Group U (Utility and Miscellaneous).

And because it may be worth noting... In utility projects, it has been my practice to only permit the structure, not the equipment within. This only applies to the process buildings, not labs, offices, etc. But in the case of a building for screening a process stream, where the building is not intended to be occupied except for the servicing of the dumpster, I would be comfortable in permitting the building shell as Group U.

2021 IBC [A] 105.2.2 Public Service Agencies​

A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution or metering or other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service agencies by established right.

 

[RLGA]

I would classify it as a Group U. In my opinion, it is an accessory structure. Group F structures for processing typically require constant oversight (i.e., occupants) to ensure there are no problems with the processing equipment, and that the processing line continues to move.

 

[Inspector Gadget]

And because it may be worth noting... In utility projects, it has been my practice to only permit the structure, not the equipment within. This only applies to the process buildings, not labs, offices, etc. But in the case of a building for screening a process stream, where the building is not intended to be occupied except for the servicing of the dumpster, I would be comfortable in permitting the building shell as Group U.

Curious: when permitting the building, do you factor the future equipment into the exit pathways/widths?

 

[classicT]

Curious: when permitting the building, do you factor the future equipment into the exit pathways/widths?

Yes, for MoE plan, equipment and obstructions still need to be shown. Though Ch. 10 is pretty forgiving for Group U buildings.

 

[kurt999]

That is some very good input -- makes sense, and is much appreciated.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

Another vote for use group U