Required Separation?

[klmArchitect]

I'm inspecting an existing structure for Code Compliance and just want to go over the basics in hopes of determining a proper separation, if required.

The building will be used to house a Volunteer Ambulance Corp.

Total sq.ft. = 3600 sq.ft.

2100 sq.ft. is Ambulance Garage

1500 sq.ft. is Office/Meeting type space. No sleeping quarters

Type 5b structure

No sprinklers.

A brief Code review suggests a 2 Hr. rating between the Ambulance Garage (S-2) and the Offices/Meeting (M).

Is that it, a 2Hr. separation or since this building in it's entity is less than the Max. allowed for a B use of type5B const. 9000 sq.ft., and less than the S-2 requirement of 13,500 sq.ft. Can this entire building be considered ONE of those uses, not requiring a separation at all. It's as clear as mud to me to look at like this but I have seen it done prior. A little help will be appreciated. Thanks

Kevin

 

[Examiner]

You have the option to select one of the mixed occupancy separation choices. I have found that if the building is under the maximum allowable areas then you can usually use the non-separated section 508.3.2. The table showing occupancy separation is there for when you need to do a rating. You can chose one or any of the separation sections.

See IBC 2006 Section 508.3 ...Where a building contains more than one occupancy group, the building or portion thereof shall comply with Sections 508.3.1, 508.3.2, 508.3.3 or a combination of these sections.

Hope this is of some help.

 

[cda]

KimA

Welcome to the site

How did you find it??

 

[klmArchitect]

Thanks for the welcome. I wish i remembered how I found this site. I believe it was sent to me when the ICC Bulletin Board closed.

Regarding the separation, thanks Examiner. I'm having trouble interpreting this part...

"508.3.2.1 Occupancy classification. Nonseparated occupancies shall be individually classified in accordance with Section 302.1. Code requirements shall apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy classification of that space except that the most restrictive applicable provisions of Section 403 and Chapter 9 shall apply to the entire building or portion thereof."



In layman's terms?

KLMarchitect

 

[cda]

my shot is

You have to build to the stricter of the two the S-2 or the B as far as const type and requirements

If you build to the stricter of the two you do not have to have seperation

Looks like you are good, but will let the better experts decide

 

[klmArchitect]

Thanks cda. That's what I thought it meant but I don't understand the logic. Because the footprint is small enough, the separate uses don't need to be separated? There is still an inherent risk of fire spread whether the building is 1000 sq. ft. or 10000 sq.ft.

K

 

[texasbo]

Thanks cda. That's what I thought it meant but I don't understand the logic. Because the footprint is small enough, the separate uses don't need to be separated? There is still an inherent risk of fire spread whether the building is 1000 sq. ft. or 10000 sq.ft. K

Yes. That's why the entire building has to comply with the most restrictive requirements.

 

[TJacobs]

Don't forget you could always exceed the code...LOL...I'll go back in my corner now...

 

[FredK]

Don't forget you could always exceed the code...LOL...I'll go back in my corner now...

Now that's funny.

 

[RLM-Architect]

Side note from another Code that helps me. I can't seem to find similar concept in IBC or IFC. It is probably there but I should be asleep right now.

NFPA 101 38.3.2.1 would require separation by one hour wall with 45 minute door OR sprinkler protection of the garage per Section 8.7.1 of the Group B (Business) occupancy from the garage (Storage) protected as a general hazard.

 

[peach]

depending on the use and type of construction, you may have to use separated uses - that's kind of why I like Type 1 buildings.