Unlimited Area Building Egress

[Mech]

2009 IBC

Are there any ways to increase the exit travel distance in a Type 2B, F-1 unlimited area building? The proposed building length exceeds 2x allowable travel distance and the building width almost exceeds 2x allowable travel distance.

I can only think of adding an exit passageway.

I read this previous topic and it looked like the building code of appeals would be the only way to get it done.

Thanks

 

[RLGA]

Other than a sprinkler system, there is no way to increase travel distance. An exit passageway doesn't increase travel distance, it can only move the exit closer to the inner part of the building. Travel distance is measured to an exit, and once within an exit the distance can be as long as needed. You can use a horizontal exit, too.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Do they have to appeal the 2009 for a code modification based on the 2015 or 2018 IBC?

1017.2.2 Group F-1 and S-1 increase. The maximum exit access travel distance shall be 400 feet in Group F-1 or S-1 occupancies where all of the following conditions are met:

1. The portion of the building classified as Group F-1 or S-1 is limited to one story in height.

2. The minimum height from the finished floor to the bottom of the ceiling or roof slab or deck is 24 feet.

3. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

Code Commentary (2015). This section provides the criteria for an increased exit access travel distance of 400 feet in Group F-1 and S-1 occupancies when three criteria are met: the S-1/F-1 area is one story, has a ceiling height of at least 24 feet, and is sprinklered.
The travel distance increase is only applicable to portions of the building that are one story in height. This is not intended to preclude a building with a one story storage warehouse or factory area and a two story office or a mezzanine from also utilizing this section. The section is written so that the one-story limitation is only applicable to the area where the 400-foot travel distance is utilized.
The 24 feet of clearance is based on the “Fire Modeling Analysis Report” by Aon Fire Protection Engineering. The ceiling height is used to provide a volume for the smoke to accumulate during the fire and provide time for egress, much like the concept used for smoke-protected seating. Control mode sprinklers were utilized in the fire modeling to demonstrate the more conservative approach.
The building is required to sprinklered in accordance with NFPA 13 requirements. While not required, ESFR or specialty sprinklers would be more effective.

 

[Builder Bob]

Do they have to appeal the 2009 for a code modification based on the 2015 or 2018 IBC?

1017.2.2 Group F-1 and S-1 increase. The maximum exit access travel distance shall be 400 feet in Group F-1 or S-1 occupancies where all of the following conditions are met:

1. The portion of the building classified as Group F-1 or S-1 is limited to one story in height.

2. The minimum height from the finished floor to the bottom of the ceiling or roof slab or deck is 24 feet.

/QUOTE]

No wonder we have a hard time with the code - item # 2 should include " 24 feet or more."

 

[Mech]

Thanks for the responses.

RLGA - I mistyped; thanks for straightening that out for me and confirming what I was thinking.

Francis - Thanks for the info and the code commentary. Perhaps on the plans we will cite the 2015 code for egress from F / S and see if the code reviewer allows it. ESFR heads are already specified.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

No wonder we have a hard time with the code - item # 2 should include " 24 feet or more."

2. The minimum height from the finished floor to the bottom of the ceiling or roof slab or deck is 24 feet.

How about another cup of mud (coffee) to clear that up!