• Welcome to The Building Code Forum

    Your premier resource for building code knowledge.

    This forum remains free to the public thanks to the generous support of our Sawhorse Members and Corporate Sponsors. Their contributions help keep this community thriving and accessible.

    Want enhanced access to expert discussions and exclusive features? Learn more about the benefits here.

    Ready to upgrade? Log in and upgrade now.

Valve access

P

pmarx

Bronze Member
Joined
Oct 13, 2010
Messages
115
Good morning again. I'm repeating the question I asked on the plumbing code board in case it belongs here. To make a short story long, I'm involved in a project where we need to compartmentalize various spaces throughout an existing building to give the client more flexibility for hazardous storage.I will have to deal with dozens of penetrations to the new fire barriers by existing pipes, conduits, etc. but at this particular location I need to avoid a valve at a pipe labeled “low pressure steam”. Am I missing anything in the code that gives specific clearances around a valve such as this (please see the attached photo)? I’ve included a portion of the plan excluding all other for clarity. As you can see, I’m trying to “jog” the wall around the valve. At this location, there’s about 27” in front of the existing utility sink. I believe the minimum is 21” (2009 NSPC).Thanks for your input.

View attachment 1432

View attachment 1433

S7 1st fl interstitial Model (1).pdf

View attachment 1433

S7 1st fl interstitial Model (1).pdf

/monthly_2010_11/572953de834be_Picture006.jpg.7175771c420c6334794e054a1e949204.jpg
 
* * * *

pmarx,

From Section 1004.3 in the `06 IMC - Working clearance. "Clearances shall be

maintained around boilers, generators, heaters, tanks and related equipment and

appliances so as to permit inspection, servicing, repair, replacement and visibility

of all gauges........When boilers are installed or replaced, clearance shall be

provided to allow access for inspection, maintenance and repair........Passageways

around all sides of boilers shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 18

inches (457 mm), unless otherwise approved."

What is your "working clearance" around this valve?



* * * *
 
Thanks north star. I did see that section but I wasn't sure if anything superseded the 18". I can give that on two sides but it looks like should confirm with the AHJ ("unless otherwise approved") if we need it on both sides. If so, I need to include reorienting the utility sink in the scope of work. Again, unless there's a section someplace that requires greater than 18". Thanks again.
 
* * * *

pmarx,

The 18" clearance should be sufficient enough, however, it is

always good to get the AHJ blessings before submitting plans.

FWIW, the 18" requirement is only for the passageways

around a boiler.

* * * *
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top