International Building Code 3410.1
Compliance. The provisions of this section are
intended to maintain or increase the current degree of public
safety, health and general welfare in existing buildings while
permitting repair, alteration, addition and change of occupancy
without requiring full compliance with Chapters 2 through 33,
or Sections 3401.3, and 3403 through 3407, except where compliance
with other provisions of this code is specifically
required in this section.
International Building Code 3410.2
Applicability. Structures existing prior to [DATE TO BE
INSERTED BY THE JURISDICTION. NOTE: IT IS RECOMMENDED
THAT THIS DATE COINCIDE WITH THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF BUILDING
CODES WITHIN THE JURISDICTION], in which there is work
involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall
be made to conform to the requirements of this section or the
provisions of Sections 3403 through 3407. The provisions in
Sections 3410.2.1 through 3410.2.5 shall apply to existing
occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in
Groups A, B, E, F, M, R, S and U. These provisions shall not
apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I.
Change in occupancy. Where an existing building
is changed to a new occupancy classification and this
section is applicable, the provisions of this section for the
new occupancy shall be used to determine compliance with
this code.
Partial change in occupancy. Where a portion of
the building is changed to a new occupancy classification,
and that portion is separated from the remainder of the
building with fire barriers or horizontal assemblies having a
fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.3.3 for the
separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives,
the portion changed shall be made to conform to the
provisions of this section.
Where a portion of the building is changed to a newoccupancy
classification, and that portion is not separated from
the remainder of the building with fire barriers or horizontal
assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by
Table 508.3.3 for the separate occupancies, or with
approved compliance alternatives, the provisions of this
section which apply to each occupancy shall apply to the
entire building. Where there are conflicting provisions,
those requirements which secure the greater public safety
shall apply to the entire building or structure.
Additions. Additions to existing buildings shall
comply with the requirements of this code for newconstruction.
The combined height and area of the existing building
and the new addition shall not exceed the height and area
allowed by Chapter 5. Where a fire wall that complies with
Section 705 is provided between the addition and the existing
building, the addition shall be considered a separate
building.
Alterations and repairs. An existing building or
portion thereof, which does not comply with the requirements
of this code for new construction, shall not be altered
or repaired in such a manner that results in the building
being less safe or sanitary than such building is currently. If,
in the alteration or repair, the current level of safety or sanitation
is to be reduced, the portion altered or repaired shall
conform to the requirements of Chapters 2 through 12 and
Chapters 14 through 33.
Flood hazard areas. For existing buildings
located in flood hazard areas established in Section
1612.3, if the alterations and repairs constitute substan-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 545
EXISTING STRUCTURES
tial improvement of the existing building, the existing
building shall be brought into compliance with the
requirements for new construction for flood design.
Accessibility requirements. All portions of the
buildings proposed for change of occupancy shall conform
to the accessibility provisions of Chapter 11.
International Building Code 3410.2.1
Change in occupancy. Where an existing building
is changed to a new occupancy classification and this
section is applicable, the provisions of this section for the
new occupancy shall be used to determine compliance with
this code.
International Building Code 3410.2.2
Partial change in occupancy. Where a portion of
the building is changed to a new occupancy classification,
and that portion is separated from the remainder of the
building with fire barriers or horizontal assemblies having a
fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.3.3 for the
separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives,
the portion changed shall be made to conform to the
provisions of this section.
Where a portion of the building is changed to a newoccupancy
classification, and that portion is not separated from
the remainder of the building with fire barriers or horizontal
assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by
Table 508.3.3 for the separate occupancies, or with
approved compliance alternatives, the provisions of this
section which apply to each occupancy shall apply to the
entire building. Where there are conflicting provisions,
those requirements which secure the greater public safety
shall apply to the entire building or structure.
International Building Code 3410.2.3
Additions. Additions to existing buildings shall
comply with the requirements of this code for newconstruction.
The combined height and area of the existing building
and the new addition shall not exceed the height and area
allowed by Chapter 5. Where a fire wall that complies with
Section 705 is provided between the addition and the existing
building, the addition shall be considered a separate
building.
International Building Code 3410.2.4
Alterations and repairs. An existing building or
portion thereof, which does not comply with the requirements
of this code for new construction, shall not be altered
or repaired in such a manner that results in the building
being less safe or sanitary than such building is currently. If,
in the alteration or repair, the current level of safety or sanitation
is to be reduced, the portion altered or repaired shall
conform to the requirements of Chapters 2 through 12 and
Chapters 14 through 33.
Flood hazard areas. For existing buildings
located in flood hazard areas established in Section
1612.3, if the alterations and repairs constitute substan-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 545
EXISTING STRUCTURES
tial improvement of the existing building, the existing
building shall be brought into compliance with the
requirements for new construction for flood design.
International Building Code 3410.2.4.1
Flood hazard areas. For existing buildings
located in flood hazard areas established in Section
1612.3, if the alterations and repairs constitute substan-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 545
EXISTING STRUCTURES
tial improvement of the existing building, the existing
building shall be brought into compliance with the
requirements for new construction for flood design.
International Building Code 3410.2.5
Accessibility requirements. All portions of the
buildings proposed for change of occupancy shall conform
to the accessibility provisions of Chapter 11.
International Building Code 3410.3
Acceptance. For repairs, alterations, additions and
changes of occupancy to existing buildings that are evaluated
in accordance with this section, compliance with this section
shall be accepted by the building official.
Hazards. Where the building official determines
that an unsafe condition exists, as provided for in Section
115, such unsafe condition shall be abated in accordance
with Section 115.
Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are
evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with
the International Fire Code and International Property
Maintenance Code.
International Building Code 3410.3.1
Hazards. Where the building official determines
that an unsafe condition exists, as provided for in Section
115, such unsafe condition shall be abated in accordance
with Section 115.
International Building Code 3410.3.2
Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are
evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with
the International Fire Code and International Property
Maintenance Code.
International Building Code 3410.4
Investigation and evaluation. For proposed work covered
by this section, the building owner shall cause the existing
building to be investigated and evaluated in accordance with
the provisions of this section.
Structural analysis. The owner shall have a structural
analysis of the existing building made to determine
adequacy of structural systems for the proposed alteration,
addition or change of occupancy. The existing building shall
be capable of supporting the minimum load requirements of
Chapter 16.
Submittal. The results of the investigation and
evaluation as required in Section 3410.4, along with proposed
compliance alternatives, shall be submitted to the
building official.
Determination of compliance. The building official
shall determine whether the existing building, with the
proposed addition, alteration or change of occupancy, complies
with the provisions of this section in accordance with
the evaluation process in Sections 3410.5 through 3410.9.
International Building Code 3410.4.1
Structural analysis. The owner shall have a structural
analysis of the existing building made to determine
adequacy of structural systems for the proposed alteration,
addition or change of occupancy. The existing building shall
be capable of supporting the minimum load requirements of
Chapter 16.
International Building Code 3410.4.2
Submittal. The results of the investigation and
evaluation as required in Section 3410.4, along with proposed
compliance alternatives, shall be submitted to the
building official.
International Building Code 3410.4.3
Determination of compliance. The building official
shall determine whether the existing building, with the
proposed addition, alteration or change of occupancy, complies
with the provisions of this section in accordance with
the evaluation process in Sections 3410.5 through 3410.9.
International Building Code 3410.5
Evaluation. The evaluation shall be comprised of three
categories: fire safety, means of egress and general safety, as
defined in Sections 3410.5.1 through 3410.5.3.
Fire safety. Included within the fire safety category
are the structural fire resistance, automatic fire detection,
fire alarm and fire suppression system features of the
facility.
Means of egress. Included within the means of
egress category are the configuration, characteristics and
support features for means of egress in the facility.
General safety. Included within the general safety
category are the fire safety parameters and the means of
egress parameters.
International Building Code 3410.5.1
Fire safety. Included within the fire safety category
are the structural fire resistance, automatic fire detection,
fire alarm and fire suppression system features of the
facility.
International Building Code 3410.5.2
Means of egress. Included within the means of
egress category are the configuration, characteristics and
support features for means of egress in the facility.
International Building Code 3410.5.3
General safety. Included within the general safety
category are the fire safety parameters and the means of
egress parameters.
International Building Code 3410.6
Evaluation process. The evaluation process specified
herein shall be followed in its entirety to evaluate existing
buildings. Table 3410.7 shall be utilized for tabulating the
results of the evaluation. References to other sections of this
code indicate that compliance with those sections is required in
order to gain credit in the evaluation herein outlined. In applying
this section to a building with mixed occupancies, where
the separation between the mixed occupancies does not qualify
for any category indicated in Section 3410.6.16, the score for
each occupancy shall be determined and the lower score determined
for each section of the evaluation process shall apply to
the entire building.
Where the separation between the mixed occupancies qualifies
for any category indicated in Section 3410.6.16, the score
for each occupancy shall apply to each portion of the building
based on the occupancy of the space.
Building height. The value for building height
shall be the lesser value determined by the formula in Section
3410.6.1.1. Chapter 5 shall be used to determine the
allowable height of the building, including allowable
increases due to automatic sprinklers as provided for in Section
504.2. Subtract the actual building height from the
allowable and divide by 12 1/2 feet. Enter the height value
and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.1, Building Height, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety. The maximum score for
a building shall be 10.
Height formula. The following formulas
shall be used in computing the building height value.
Height value, feet =
( ) ( )
12.5
AH EBH
CF -??
Height value, stories = (Equation 34-1)
Note: Where mixed occupancies are separated and individually
evaluated as indicated in Section 3410.6, the
values AH, AS, EBH and EBS shall be based on the
height of the fire area of the occupancy being evaluated.
Building area. The value for building area shall be
determined by the formula in Section 3410.6.2.2. Section
503 and the formula in Section 3410.6.2.1 shall be used to
determine the allowable area of the building. This shall
include any allowable increases due to open perimeter and
automatic sprinklers as provided for in Section 506. Subtract
the actual building area from the allowable area and
divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). Enter the area value
and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.2, Building Area, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety. In determining the area
value, the maximum permitted positive value for area is 50
percent of the fire safety score as listed in Table 3410.8,
Mandatory Safety Scores.
546 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
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Allowable area formula. The following formula
shall be used in computing allowable area:
(Equation 34-2)
Area formula. The following formula shall
be used in computing the area value. Determine the area
value for each occupancy fire area on a floor-by-floor
basis. For each occupancy, choose the minimum area
value of the set of values obtained for the particular occupancy.
Area value
Allowable
area
(Equation 34-3)
Compartmentation. Evaluate the compartments
created by fire barriers or horizontal assemblies which comply
with Sections 3410.6.3.1 and 3410.6.3.2 and which are
exclusive of the wall elements considered under Sections
3410.6.4 and 3410.6.5. Conforming compartments shall be
figured as the net area and do not include shafts, chases,
stairways, walls or columns. Using Table 3410.6.3, determine
the appropriate compartmentation value (CV) and
enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter
3410.6.3, Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of
egress and general safety.
Wall construction.Awall used to create separate
compartments shall be a fire barrier conforming to
Section 706 with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
hours. Where the building is not divided into more than
one compartment, the compartment size shall be taken as
the total floor area on all floors. Where there is more than
one compartment within a story, each compartmented
area on such story shall be provided with a horizontal exit
conforming to Section 1022. The fire door serving as the
horizontal exit between compartments shall be so
installed, fitted and gasketed that such fire door will provide
a substantial barrier to the passage of smoke.
Floor/ceiling construction. A floor/ceiling
assembly used to create compartments shall conform to
Section 711 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not
less than 2 hours.
Tenant and dwelling unit separations. Evaluate
the fire-resistance rating of floors and walls separating tenants,
including dwelling units, and not evaluated under Sections
3410.6.3 and 3410.6.5. Under the categories and
occupancies in Table 3410.6.4, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value in Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.4, Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separation,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
The categories for tenant and
dwelling unit separations are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing or automatic
closing.
2. Category b�Fire partitions or floor assembly less
than 1-hour fire-resistance rating or not con-
structed in accordance with Sections 708 or 711,
respectively.
3. Category c�Fire partitions with 1 hour or greater
fire-resistance rating constructed in accordance
with Section 708 and floor assemblies with 1-hour
but less than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711, or with
only one tenant within the fire area.
4. Category d � Fire barriers with 1-hour but less
than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed in
accordance with Section 706 and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711.
5. Category e � Fire barriers and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating and
constructed in accordance with Sections 706 and
711, respectively.
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 547
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Corridor walls. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating
and degree of completeness of walls which create corridors
serving the floor, and constructed in accordance with
Section 1017. This evaluation shall not include the wall elements
considered under Sections 3410.6.3 and 3410.6.4.
Under the categories and groups in Table 3410.6.5, determine
the appropriate value and enter that value into Table
3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.5, Corridor Walls,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for corridorwalls
are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.
2. Category b�Less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating
or not constructed in accordance with Section
708.4.
3. Category c�1-hour to less than 2-hour fire-resistance
rating, with doors conforming to Section 715
or without corridors as permitted by Section 1017.
4. Category d�2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating,
with doors conforming to Section 715.
Vertical openings. Evaluate the fire-resistance
rating of exit enclosures, hoistways, escalator openings and
other shaft enclosures within the building, and openings
between two or more floors. Table 3410.6.6(1) contains the
appropriate protection values. Multiply that value by the
construction-type factor found in Table 3410.6.6(2). Enter
the vertical opening value and its sign (positive or negative)
in Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.6, Vertical
Openings, for fire safety, means of egress and general
safety. If the structure is a one-story building, enter a value
of 2. Unenclosed vertical openings that conform to the
requirements of Section 707 shall not be considered in the
evaluation of vertical openings.
Vertical opening formula. The following
formula shall be used in computing vertical opening
value.
(Equation 34-4)
HVAC systems. Evaluate the ability of the HVAC
system to resist the movement of smoke and fire beyond the
point of origin. Under the categories in Section 3410.6.7.1,
determine the appropriate value and enter that value into
Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.7, HVAC Systems,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for HVAC systems
are:
1. Category a � Plenums not in accordance with
Section 602 of the International Mechanical
Code. -10 points.
2. Category b � Air movement in egress elements
not in accordance with Section 1017.4. -5 points.
3. Category c�Both categories a and b are applicable.
-15 points.
4. Category d � Compliance of the HVAC system
with Section 1017.4 and Section 602 of the International
Mechanical Code. 0 points.
5. Category e�Systems serving one story; or a central
boiler/chiller system without ductwork connecting
two or more stories. 5 points.
Automatic fire detection. Evaluate the smoke
detection capability based on the location and operation of
automatic fire detectors in accordance with Section 907 and
548 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
the International Mechanical Code. Under the categories
and occupancies in Table 3410.6.8, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.8, Automatic Fire Detection, for fire
safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for automatic fire
detection are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Existing smoke detectors in HVAC
systems and maintained in accordance with the
International Fire Code.
3. Category c�Smoke detectors in HVAC systems.
The detectors are installed in accordance with the
requirements for new buildings in the International
Mechanical Code.
4. Category d � Smoke detectors throughout all
floor areas other than individual sleeping units,
tenant spaces and dwelling units.
5. Category e�Smoke detectors installed throughout
the fire area.
Fire alarm systems. Evaluate the capability of the
fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907. Under the
categories and occupancies in Table 3410.6.9, determine
the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 3410.7
under Safety Parameter 3410.6.9, Fire Alarm, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for fire alarm systems
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Fire alarm system with manual fire
alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.3 and
alarm notification appliances in accordance with
Section 907.9.
3. Category c � Fire alarm system in accordance
with Section 907.
4. Category d � Category c plus a required emergency
voice/alarm communications system and a
fire command center that conforms to Section
403.8 and contains the emergency voice/alarm
communications system controls, fire department
communication system controls and any other
controls specified in Section 911 where those systems
are provided.
Smoke control. Evaluate the ability of a natural
or mechanical venting, exhaust or pressurization system to
control the movement of smoke from a fire. Under the categories
and occupancies in Table 3410.6.10, determine the
appropriate value and enter that value into Table 3410.7
under Safety Parameter 3410.6.10, Smoke Control, for
means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for smoke control
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Openings
are provided in exterior walls at the rate of 20
square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear feet (15 240
mm) of exterior wall in each story and distributed
around the building perimeter at intervals not
exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Such openings
shall be readily openable from the inside without a
key or separate tool and shall be provided with
ready access thereto. In lieu of operable openings,
clearly and permanently marked tempered glass
panels shall be used.
3. Category c � One enclosed exit stairway, with
ready access thereto, from each occupied floor of
the building. The stairway has operable exterior
windows and the building has openings in accordance
with Category b.
4. Category d�One smokeproof enclosure and the
building has openings in accordance with Category
b.
5. Category e � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Each fire
area is provided with a mechanical air-handling
system designed to accomplish smoke containment.
Return and exhaust air shall be moved
directly to the outside without recirculation to
other fire areas of the building under fire conditions.
The system shall exhaust not less than six air
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 549
EXISTING STRUCTURES
changes per hour from the fire area. Supply air by
mechanical means to the fire area is not required.
Containment of smoke shall be considered as confining
smoke to the fire area involved without
migration to other fire areas. Any other tested and
approved design which will adequately accomplish
smoke containment is permitted.
6. Category f�Each stairway shall be one of the following:
a smokeproof enclosure in accordance
with Section 1020.1.7; pressurized in accordance
with Section 909.20.5; or shall have operable exterior
windows.
Means of egress capacity and number. Evaluate
the means of egress capacity and the number of exits
available to the building occupants. In applying this section,
the means of egress are required to conform to Sections
1003 through 1015 and 1017 through 1024 (except that the
minimum width required by this section shall be determined
solely by the width for the required capacity in accordance
withTable 1005.1). The number of exits credited is the number
that are available to each occupant of the area being evaluated.
Existing fire escapes shall be accepted as a
component in the means of egress when conforming to Section
3404. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.11, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.11,
Means of Egress Capacity, for means of egress and general
safety.
Categories. The categories for means of
egress capacity and number of exits are:
1. Category a � Compliance with the minimum
required means of egress capacity or number of
exits is achieved through the use of a fire escape in
accordance with Section 3404.
2. Category b � Capacity of the means of egress
complies with Section 1004 and the number of
exits complies with the minimum number required
by Section 1019.
3. Category c � Capacity of the means of egress is
equal to or exceeds 125 percent of the required
means of egress capacity, the means of egress
complies with the minimum required width
dimensions specified in the code and the number
of exits complies with the minimum number
required by Section 1019.
4. Category d � The number of exits provided
exceeds the number of exits required by Section
1019. Exits shall be located a distance apart from
each other equal to not less than that specified in
Section 1015.2.
5. Category e�The area being evaluated meets both
Categories c and d.
Dead ends. In spaces required to be served by
more than one means of egress, evaluate the length of the
exit access travel path in which the building occupants are
confined to a single path of travel. Under the categories and
occupancies in Table 3410.6.12, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.12, Dead Ends, for means of egress and
general safety.
Categories. The categories for dead ends
are:
1. Category a�Dead end of 35 feet (10 670 mm) in
nonsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21 340 mm)
in sprinklered buildings.
2. Category b�Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm); or
50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance
with Section 1017.3 exception 2.
3. Category c � No dead ends; or ratio of length to
width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.
Maximum exit access travel distance. Evaluate
the length of exit access travel to an approved exit. Determine
the appropriate points in accordance with the following
equation and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.13, Maximum Exit Access Travel
Distance, for means of egress and general safety. The maximum
allowable exit access travel distance shall be determined
in accordance with Section 1015.1.
Points 20
Maximum allowable
travel distance
Max
???
-?imum actual
travel distance
Max. allowable travel distance
Elevator control. Evaluate the passenger elevator
equipment and controls that are available to the fire
department to reach all occupied floors. Elevator recall controls
shall be provided in accordance with the International
Fire Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.14, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.14,
Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of egress and general
safety. The values shall be zero for a single-story building.
550 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
Categories. The categories for elevator
controls are:
1. Category a � No elevator.
2. Category b�Any elevator without Phase I and II
recall.
3. Category c � All elevators with Phase I and II
recall as required by the International Fire Code.
4. Category d�All meet Category c; or Category b
where permitted to be without recall; and at least
one elevator that complies with new construction
requirements serves all occupied floors.
Means of egress emergency lighting. Evaluate
the presence of and reliability of means of egress emergency
lighting. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.15, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.15,
Means of Egress Emergency Lighting, for means of egress
and general safety.
Categories. The categories for means of
egress emergency lighting are:
1. Category a � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs not provided with emergency power in
accordance with Section 2702.
2. Category b � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs provided with emergency power in accordance
with Section 2702.
3. Category c � Emergency power provided to
means of egress lighting and exit signs which provides
protection in the event of power failure to the
site or building.
Mixed occupancies. Where a building has two
or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy
classification, the separation between the mixed occupancies
shall be evaluated in accordance with this section.
Where there is no separation between the mixed occupancies
or the separation between mixed occupancies does not
qualify for any of the categories indicated in Section
3410.6.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as indicated in
Section 3410.6 and the value for mixed occupancies shall be
zero. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.16, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.16,
Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety and general safety. For
buildings without mixed occupancies, the value shall be
zero.
Categories. The categories for mixed occupancies
are:
1. Category a � Minimum 1-hour fire barriers
between occupancies.
2. Category b � Fire barriers between occupancies
in accordance with Section 508.3.3
3. Category c � Fire barriers between occupancies
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than
twice that required by Section 508.3.3
Automatic sprinklers. Evaluate the ability to
suppress a fire based on the installation of an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
�Required sprinklers� shall be based on the requirements of
this code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.17, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.17,
Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress
divided by 2 and general safety.
Categories. The categories for automatic
sprinkler system protection are:
1. Category a�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler
system design is not adequate for the hazard
protected in accordance with Section 903.
2. Category b�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinkler protection is not provided
or the sprinkler system design is not ade-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 551
EXISTING STRUCTURES
quate for the hazard protected in accordance with
Section 903.
3. Category c�Sprinklers are not required; none are
provided.
4. Category d�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinklers are provided in such
portion; the system is one which complied with the
code at the time of installation and is maintained
and supervised in accordance with Section 903.
5. Category e�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
6. Category f�Sprinklers are not required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
Incidental use. Evaluate the protection of incidental
use areas in accordance with Section 508.2. Do not
include those where this code requires suppression throughout
the building including covered mall buildings, high-rise
buildings, public garages and unlimited area buildings.
Assign the lowest score from Table 3410.6.18 for the building
or fire area being evaluated. If there are no specific occupancy
areas in the building or fire area being evaluated, the
value shall be zero.
International Building Code 3410.6.1
Building height. The value for building height
shall be the lesser value determined by the formula in Section
3410.6.1.1. Chapter 5 shall be used to determine the
allowable height of the building, including allowable
increases due to automatic sprinklers as provided for in Section
504.2. Subtract the actual building height from the
allowable and divide by 12 1/2 feet. Enter the height value
and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.1, Building Height, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety. The maximum score for
a building shall be 10.
Height formula. The following formulas
shall be used in computing the building height value.
Height value, feet =
( ) ( )
12.5
AH EBH
CF -??
Height value, stories = (Equation 34-1)
Note: Where mixed occupancies are separated and individually
evaluated as indicated in Section 3410.6, the
values AH, AS, EBH and EBS shall be based on the
height of the fire area of the occupancy being evaluated.
International Building Code 3410.6.1.1
Height formula. The following formulas
shall be used in computing the building height value.
Height value, feet =
( ) ( )
12.5
AH EBH
CF -??
Height value, stories = (Equation 34-1)
Note: Where mixed occupancies are separated and individually
evaluated as indicated in Section 3410.6, the
values AH, AS, EBH and EBS shall be based on the
height of the fire area of the occupancy being evaluated.
International Building Code 3410.6.10
Smoke control. Evaluate the ability of a natural
or mechanical venting, exhaust or pressurization system to
control the movement of smoke from a fire. Under the categories
and occupancies in Table 3410.6.10, determine the
appropriate value and enter that value into Table 3410.7
under Safety Parameter 3410.6.10, Smoke Control, for
means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for smoke control
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Openings
are provided in exterior walls at the rate of 20
square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear feet (15 240
mm) of exterior wall in each story and distributed
around the building perimeter at intervals not
exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Such openings
shall be readily openable from the inside without a
key or separate tool and shall be provided with
ready access thereto. In lieu of operable openings,
clearly and permanently marked tempered glass
panels shall be used.
3. Category c � One enclosed exit stairway, with
ready access thereto, from each occupied floor of
the building. The stairway has operable exterior
windows and the building has openings in accordance
with Category b.
4. Category d�One smokeproof enclosure and the
building has openings in accordance with Category
b.
5. Category e � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Each fire
area is provided with a mechanical air-handling
system designed to accomplish smoke containment.
Return and exhaust air shall be moved
directly to the outside without recirculation to
other fire areas of the building under fire conditions.
The system shall exhaust not less than six air
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 549
EXISTING STRUCTURES
changes per hour from the fire area. Supply air by
mechanical means to the fire area is not required.
Containment of smoke shall be considered as confining
smoke to the fire area involved without
migration to other fire areas. Any other tested and
approved design which will adequately accomplish
smoke containment is permitted.
6. Category f�Each stairway shall be one of the following:
a smokeproof enclosure in accordance
with Section 1020.1.7; pressurized in accordance
with Section 909.20.5; or shall have operable exterior
windows.
International Building Code 3410.6.10.1
Categories. The categories for smoke control
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Openings
are provided in exterior walls at the rate of 20
square feet (1.86 m2) per 50 linear feet (15 240
mm) of exterior wall in each story and distributed
around the building perimeter at intervals not
exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). Such openings
shall be readily openable from the inside without a
key or separate tool and shall be provided with
ready access thereto. In lieu of operable openings,
clearly and permanently marked tempered glass
panels shall be used.
3. Category c � One enclosed exit stairway, with
ready access thereto, from each occupied floor of
the building. The stairway has operable exterior
windows and the building has openings in accordance
with Category b.
4. Category d�One smokeproof enclosure and the
building has openings in accordance with Category
b.
5. Category e � The building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system. Each fire
area is provided with a mechanical air-handling
system designed to accomplish smoke containment.
Return and exhaust air shall be moved
directly to the outside without recirculation to
other fire areas of the building under fire conditions.
The system shall exhaust not less than six air
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 549
EXISTING STRUCTURES
changes per hour from the fire area. Supply air by
mechanical means to the fire area is not required.
Containment of smoke shall be considered as confining
smoke to the fire area involved without
migration to other fire areas. Any other tested and
approved design which will adequately accomplish
smoke containment is permitted.
6. Category f�Each stairway shall be one of the following:
a smokeproof enclosure in accordance
with Section 1020.1.7; pressurized in accordance
with Section 909.20.5; or shall have operable exterior
windows.
International Building Code 3410.6.11
Means of egress capacity and number. Evaluate
the means of egress capacity and the number of exits
available to the building occupants. In applying this section,
the means of egress are required to conform to Sections
1003 through 1015 and 1017 through 1024 (except that the
minimum width required by this section shall be determined
solely by the width for the required capacity in accordance
withTable 1005.1). The number of exits credited is the number
that are available to each occupant of the area being evaluated.
Existing fire escapes shall be accepted as a
component in the means of egress when conforming to Section
3404. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.11, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.11,
Means of Egress Capacity, for means of egress and general
safety.
Categories. The categories for means of
egress capacity and number of exits are:
1. Category a � Compliance with the minimum
required means of egress capacity or number of
exits is achieved through the use of a fire escape in
accordance with Section 3404.
2. Category b � Capacity of the means of egress
complies with Section 1004 and the number of
exits complies with the minimum number required
by Section 1019.
3. Category c � Capacity of the means of egress is
equal to or exceeds 125 percent of the required
means of egress capacity, the means of egress
complies with the minimum required width
dimensions specified in the code and the number
of exits complies with the minimum number
required by Section 1019.
4. Category d � The number of exits provided
exceeds the number of exits required by Section
1019. Exits shall be located a distance apart from
each other equal to not less than that specified in
Section 1015.2.
5. Category e�The area being evaluated meets both
Categories c and d.
International Building Code 3410.6.11.1
Categories. The categories for means of
egress capacity and number of exits are:
1. Category a � Compliance with the minimum
required means of egress capacity or number of
exits is achieved through the use of a fire escape in
accordance with Section 3404.
2. Category b � Capacity of the means of egress
complies with Section 1004 and the number of
exits complies with the minimum number required
by Section 1019.
3. Category c � Capacity of the means of egress is
equal to or exceeds 125 percent of the required
means of egress capacity, the means of egress
complies with the minimum required width
dimensions specified in the code and the number
of exits complies with the minimum number
required by Section 1019.
4. Category d � The number of exits provided
exceeds the number of exits required by Section
1019. Exits shall be located a distance apart from
each other equal to not less than that specified in
Section 1015.2.
5. Category e�The area being evaluated meets both
Categories c and d.
International Building Code 3410.6.12
Dead ends. In spaces required to be served by
more than one means of egress, evaluate the length of the
exit access travel path in which the building occupants are
confined to a single path of travel. Under the categories and
occupancies in Table 3410.6.12, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.12, Dead Ends, for means of egress and
general safety.
Categories. The categories for dead ends
are:
1. Category a�Dead end of 35 feet (10 670 mm) in
nonsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21 340 mm)
in sprinklered buildings.
2. Category b�Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm); or
50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance
with Section 1017.3 exception 2.
3. Category c � No dead ends; or ratio of length to
width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.
International Building Code 3410.6.12.1
Categories. The categories for dead ends
are:
1. Category a�Dead end of 35 feet (10 670 mm) in
nonsprinklered buildings or 70 feet (21 340 mm)
in sprinklered buildings.
2. Category b�Dead end of 20 feet (6096 mm); or
50 feet (15 240 mm) in Group B in accordance
with Section 1017.3 exception 2.
3. Category c � No dead ends; or ratio of length to
width (l/w) is less than 2.5:1.
International Building Code 3410.6.13
Maximum exit access travel distance. Evaluate
the length of exit access travel to an approved exit. Determine
the appropriate points in accordance with the following
equation and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.13, Maximum Exit Access Travel
Distance, for means of egress and general safety. The maximum
allowable exit access travel distance shall be determined
in accordance with Section 1015.1.
Points 20
Maximum allowable
travel distance
Max
???
-?imum actual
travel distance
Max. allowable travel distance
International Building Code 3410.6.14
Elevator control. Evaluate the passenger elevator
equipment and controls that are available to the fire
department to reach all occupied floors. Elevator recall controls
shall be provided in accordance with the International
Fire Code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.14, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.14,
Elevator Control, for fire safety, means of egress and general
safety. The values shall be zero for a single-story building.
550 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
Categories. The categories for elevator
controls are:
1. Category a � No elevator.
2. Category b�Any elevator without Phase I and II
recall.
3. Category c � All elevators with Phase I and II
recall as required by the International Fire Code.
4. Category d�All meet Category c; or Category b
where permitted to be without recall; and at least
one elevator that complies with new construction
requirements serves all occupied floors.
International Building Code 3410.6.14.1
Categories. The categories for elevator
controls are:
1. Category a � No elevator.
2. Category b�Any elevator without Phase I and II
recall.
3. Category c � All elevators with Phase I and II
recall as required by the International Fire Code.
4. Category d�All meet Category c; or Category b
where permitted to be without recall; and at least
one elevator that complies with new construction
requirements serves all occupied floors.
International Building Code 3410.6.15
Means of egress emergency lighting. Evaluate
the presence of and reliability of means of egress emergency
lighting. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.15, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.15,
Means of Egress Emergency Lighting, for means of egress
and general safety.
Categories. The categories for means of
egress emergency lighting are:
1. Category a � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs not provided with emergency power in
accordance with Section 2702.
2. Category b � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs provided with emergency power in accordance
with Section 2702.
3. Category c � Emergency power provided to
means of egress lighting and exit signs which provides
protection in the event of power failure to the
site or building.
International Building Code 3410.6.15.1
Categories. The categories for means of
egress emergency lighting are:
1. Category a � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs not provided with emergency power in
accordance with Section 2702.
2. Category b � Means of egress lighting and exit
signs provided with emergency power in accordance
with Section 2702.
3. Category c � Emergency power provided to
means of egress lighting and exit signs which provides
protection in the event of power failure to the
site or building.
International Building Code 3410.6.16
Mixed occupancies. Where a building has two
or more occupancies that are not in the same occupancy
classification, the separation between the mixed occupancies
shall be evaluated in accordance with this section.
Where there is no separation between the mixed occupancies
or the separation between mixed occupancies does not
qualify for any of the categories indicated in Section
3410.6.16.1, the building shall be evaluated as indicated in
Section 3410.6 and the value for mixed occupancies shall be
zero. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.16, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.16,
Mixed Occupancies, for fire safety and general safety. For
buildings without mixed occupancies, the value shall be
zero.
Categories. The categories for mixed occupancies
are:
1. Category a � Minimum 1-hour fire barriers
between occupancies.
2. Category b � Fire barriers between occupancies
in accordance with Section 508.3.3
3. Category c � Fire barriers between occupancies
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than
twice that required by Section 508.3.3
International Building Code 3410.6.16.1
Categories. The categories for mixed occupancies
are:
1. Category a � Minimum 1-hour fire barriers
between occupancies.
2. Category b � Fire barriers between occupancies
in accordance with Section 508.3.3
3. Category c � Fire barriers between occupancies
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than
twice that required by Section 508.3.3
International Building Code 3410.6.17
Automatic sprinklers. Evaluate the ability to
suppress a fire based on the installation of an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
�Required sprinklers� shall be based on the requirements of
this code. Under the categories and occupancies in Table
3410.6.17, determine the appropriate value and enter that
value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.17,
Automatic Sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress
divided by 2 and general safety.
Categories. The categories for automatic
sprinkler system protection are:
1. Category a�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler
system design is not adequate for the hazard
protected in accordance with Section 903.
2. Category b�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinkler protection is not provided
or the sprinkler system design is not ade-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 551
EXISTING STRUCTURES
quate for the hazard protected in accordance with
Section 903.
3. Category c�Sprinklers are not required; none are
provided.
4. Category d�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinklers are provided in such
portion; the system is one which complied with the
code at the time of installation and is maintained
and supervised in accordance with Section 903.
5. Category e�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
6. Category f�Sprinklers are not required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
International Building Code 3410.6.17.1
Categories. The categories for automatic
sprinkler system protection are:
1. Category a�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinkler protection is not provided or the sprinkler
system design is not adequate for the hazard
protected in accordance with Section 903.
2. Category b�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinkler protection is not provided
or the sprinkler system design is not ade-
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 551
EXISTING STRUCTURES
quate for the hazard protected in accordance with
Section 903.
3. Category c�Sprinklers are not required; none are
provided.
4. Category d�Sprinklers are required in a portion
of the building; sprinklers are provided in such
portion; the system is one which complied with the
code at the time of installation and is maintained
and supervised in accordance with Section 903.
5. Category e�Sprinklers are required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
6. Category f�Sprinklers are not required throughout;
sprinklers are provided throughout in accordance
with Chapter 9.
International Building Code 3410.6.18
Incidental use. Evaluate the protection of incidental
use areas in accordance with Section 508.2. Do not
include those where this code requires suppression throughout
the building including covered mall buildings, high-rise
buildings, public garages and unlimited area buildings.
Assign the lowest score from Table 3410.6.18 for the building
or fire area being evaluated. If there are no specific occupancy
areas in the building or fire area being evaluated, the
value shall be zero.
International Building Code 3410.6.2
Building area. The value for building area shall be
determined by the formula in Section 3410.6.2.2. Section
503 and the formula in Section 3410.6.2.1 shall be used to
determine the allowable area of the building. This shall
include any allowable increases due to open perimeter and
automatic sprinklers as provided for in Section 506. Subtract
the actual building area from the allowable area and
divide by 1,200 square feet (112 m2). Enter the area value
and its sign (positive or negative) in Table 3410.7 under
Safety Parameter 3410.6.2, Building Area, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety. In determining the area
value, the maximum permitted positive value for area is 50
percent of the fire safety score as listed in Table 3410.8,
Mandatory Safety Scores.
546 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
Allowable area formula. The following formula
shall be used in computing allowable area:
(Equation 34-2)
Area formula. The following formula shall
be used in computing the area value. Determine the area
value for each occupancy fire area on a floor-by-floor
basis. For each occupancy, choose the minimum area
value of the set of values obtained for the particular occupancy.
Area value
Allowable
area
(Equation 34-3)
International Building Code 3410.6.2.1
Allowable area formula. The following formula
shall be used in computing allowable area:
(Equation 34-2)
International Building Code 3410.6.2.2
Area formula. The following formula shall
be used in computing the area value. Determine the area
value for each occupancy fire area on a floor-by-floor
basis. For each occupancy, choose the minimum area
value of the set of values obtained for the particular occupancy.
Area value
Allowable
area
(Equation 34-3)
International Building Code 3410.6.3
Compartmentation. Evaluate the compartments
created by fire barriers or horizontal assemblies which comply
with Sections 3410.6.3.1 and 3410.6.3.2 and which are
exclusive of the wall elements considered under Sections
3410.6.4 and 3410.6.5. Conforming compartments shall be
figured as the net area and do not include shafts, chases,
stairways, walls or columns. Using Table 3410.6.3, determine
the appropriate compartmentation value (CV) and
enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter
3410.6.3, Compartmentation, for fire safety, means of
egress and general safety.
Wall construction.Awall used to create separate
compartments shall be a fire barrier conforming to
Section 706 with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
hours. Where the building is not divided into more than
one compartment, the compartment size shall be taken as
the total floor area on all floors. Where there is more than
one compartment within a story, each compartmented
area on such story shall be provided with a horizontal exit
conforming to Section 1022. The fire door serving as the
horizontal exit between compartments shall be so
installed, fitted and gasketed that such fire door will provide
a substantial barrier to the passage of smoke.
Floor/ceiling construction. A floor/ceiling
assembly used to create compartments shall conform to
Section 711 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not
less than 2 hours.
International Building Code 3410.6.3.1
Wall construction.Awall used to create separate
compartments shall be a fire barrier conforming to
Section 706 with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
hours. Where the building is not divided into more than
one compartment, the compartment size shall be taken as
the total floor area on all floors. Where there is more than
one compartment within a story, each compartmented
area on such story shall be provided with a horizontal exit
conforming to Section 1022. The fire door serving as the
horizontal exit between compartments shall be so
installed, fitted and gasketed that such fire door will provide
a substantial barrier to the passage of smoke.
International Building Code 3410.6.3.2
Floor/ceiling construction. A floor/ceiling
assembly used to create compartments shall conform to
Section 711 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not
less than 2 hours.
International Building Code 3410.6.4
Tenant and dwelling unit separations. Evaluate
the fire-resistance rating of floors and walls separating tenants,
including dwelling units, and not evaluated under Sections
3410.6.3 and 3410.6.5. Under the categories and
occupancies in Table 3410.6.4, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value in Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.4, Tenant and Dwelling Unit Separation,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
The categories for tenant and
dwelling unit separations are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing or automatic
closing.
2. Category b�Fire partitions or floor assembly less
than 1-hour fire-resistance rating or not con-
structed in accordance with Sections 708 or 711,
respectively.
3. Category c�Fire partitions with 1 hour or greater
fire-resistance rating constructed in accordance
with Section 708 and floor assemblies with 1-hour
but less than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711, or with
only one tenant within the fire area.
4. Category d � Fire barriers with 1-hour but less
than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed in
accordance with Section 706 and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711.
5. Category e � Fire barriers and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating and
constructed in accordance with Sections 706 and
711, respectively.
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 547
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International Building Code 3410.6.4.1
The categories for tenant and
dwelling unit separations are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; doors not self-closing or automatic
closing.
2. Category b�Fire partitions or floor assembly less
than 1-hour fire-resistance rating or not con-
structed in accordance with Sections 708 or 711,
respectively.
3. Category c�Fire partitions with 1 hour or greater
fire-resistance rating constructed in accordance
with Section 708 and floor assemblies with 1-hour
but less than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711, or with
only one tenant within the fire area.
4. Category d � Fire barriers with 1-hour but less
than 2-hour fire-resistance rating constructed in
accordance with Section 706 and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating constructed
in accordance with Section 711.
5. Category e � Fire barriers and floor assemblies
with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating and
constructed in accordance with Sections 706 and
711, respectively.
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE. 547
EXISTING STRUCTURES
International Building Code 3410.6.5
Corridor walls. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating
and degree of completeness of walls which create corridors
serving the floor, and constructed in accordance with
Section 1017. This evaluation shall not include the wall elements
considered under Sections 3410.6.3 and 3410.6.4.
Under the categories and groups in Table 3410.6.5, determine
the appropriate value and enter that value into Table
3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.5, Corridor Walls,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for corridorwalls
are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.
2. Category b�Less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating
or not constructed in accordance with Section
708.4.
3. Category c�1-hour to less than 2-hour fire-resistance
rating, with doors conforming to Section 715
or without corridors as permitted by Section 1017.
4. Category d�2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating,
with doors conforming to Section 715.
International Building Code 3410.6.5.1
Categories. The categories for corridorwalls
are:
1. Category a � No fire partitions; incomplete fire
partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.
2. Category b�Less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating
or not constructed in accordance with Section
708.4.
3. Category c�1-hour to less than 2-hour fire-resistance
rating, with doors conforming to Section 715
or without corridors as permitted by Section 1017.
4. Category d�2-hour or greater fire-resistance rating,
with doors conforming to Section 715.
International Building Code 3410.6.6
Vertical openings. Evaluate the fire-resistance
rating of exit enclosures, hoistways, escalator openings and
other shaft enclosures within the building, and openings
between two or more floors. Table 3410.6.6(1) contains the
appropriate protection values. Multiply that value by the
construction-type factor found in Table 3410.6.6(2). Enter
the vertical opening value and its sign (positive or negative)
in Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.6, Vertical
Openings, for fire safety, means of egress and general
safety. If the structure is a one-story building, enter a value
of 2. Unenclosed vertical openings that conform to the
requirements of Section 707 shall not be considered in the
evaluation of vertical openings.
Vertical opening formula. The following
formula shall be used in computing vertical opening
value.
(Equation 34-4)
International Building Code 3410.6.6.1
Vertical opening formula. The following
formula shall be used in computing vertical opening
value.
(Equation 34-4)
International Building Code 3410.6.7
HVAC systems. Evaluate the ability of the HVAC
system to resist the movement of smoke and fire beyond the
point of origin. Under the categories in Section 3410.6.7.1,
determine the appropriate value and enter that value into
Table 3410.7 under Safety Parameter 3410.6.7, HVAC Systems,
for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for HVAC systems
are:
1. Category a � Plenums not in accordance with
Section 602 of the International Mechanical
Code. -10 points.
2. Category b � Air movement in egress elements
not in accordance with Section 1017.4. -5 points.
3. Category c�Both categories a and b are applicable.
-15 points.
4. Category d � Compliance of the HVAC system
with Section 1017.4 and Section 602 of the International
Mechanical Code. 0 points.
5. Category e�Systems serving one story; or a central
boiler/chiller system without ductwork connecting
two or more stories. 5 points.
International Building Code 3410.6.7.1
Categories. The categories for HVAC systems
are:
1. Category a � Plenums not in accordance with
Section 602 of the International Mechanical
Code. -10 points.
2. Category b � Air movement in egress elements
not in accordance with Section 1017.4. -5 points.
3. Category c�Both categories a and b are applicable.
-15 points.
4. Category d � Compliance of the HVAC system
with Section 1017.4 and Section 602 of the International
Mechanical Code. 0 points.
5. Category e�Systems serving one story; or a central
boiler/chiller system without ductwork connecting
two or more stories. 5 points.
International Building Code 3410.6.8
Automatic fire detection. Evaluate the smoke
detection capability based on the location and operation of
automatic fire detectors in accordance with Section 907 and
548 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
the International Mechanical Code. Under the categories
and occupancies in Table 3410.6.8, determine the appropriate
value and enter that value into Table 3410.7 under Safety
Parameter 3410.6.8, Automatic Fire Detection, for fire
safety, means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for automatic fire
detection are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Existing smoke detectors in HVAC
systems and maintained in accordance with the
International Fire Code.
3. Category c�Smoke detectors in HVAC systems.
The detectors are installed in accordance with the
requirements for new buildings in the International
Mechanical Code.
4. Category d � Smoke detectors throughout all
floor areas other than individual sleeping units,
tenant spaces and dwelling units.
5. Category e�Smoke detectors installed throughout
the fire area.
International Building Code 3410.6.8.1
Categories. The categories for automatic fire
detection are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Existing smoke detectors in HVAC
systems and maintained in accordance with the
International Fire Code.
3. Category c�Smoke detectors in HVAC systems.
The detectors are installed in accordance with the
requirements for new buildings in the International
Mechanical Code.
4. Category d � Smoke detectors throughout all
floor areas other than individual sleeping units,
tenant spaces and dwelling units.
5. Category e�Smoke detectors installed throughout
the fire area.
International Building Code 3410.6.9
Fire alarm systems. Evaluate the capability of the
fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907. Under the
categories and occupancies in Table 3410.6.9, determine
the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 3410.7
under Safety Parameter 3410.6.9, Fire Alarm, for fire safety,
means of egress and general safety.
Categories. The categories for fire alarm systems
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Fire alarm system with manual fire
alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.3 and
alarm notification appliances in accordance with
Section 907.9.
3. Category c � Fire alarm system in accordance
with Section 907.
4. Category d � Category c plus a required emergency
voice/alarm communications system and a
fire command center that conforms to Section
403.8 and contains the emergency voice/alarm
communications system controls, fire department
communication system controls and any other
controls specified in Section 911 where those systems
are provided.
International Building Code 3410.6.9.1
Categories. The categories for fire alarm systems
are:
1. Category a � None.
2. Category b�Fire alarm system with manual fire
alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.3 and
alarm notification appliances in accordance with
Section 907.9.
3. Category c � Fire alarm system in accordance
with Section 907.
4. Category d � Category c plus a required emergency
voice/alarm communications system and a
fire command center that conforms to Section
403.8 and contains the emergency voice/alarm
communications system controls, fire department
communication system controls and any other
controls specified in Section 911 where those systems
are provided.
International Building Code 3410.7
Building score. After determining the appropriate data
from Section 3410.6, enter those data in Table 3410.7 and total
the building score.
International Building Code 3410.8
Safety scores. The values in Table 3410.8 are the
required mandatory safety scores for the evaluation process
listed in Section 3410.6.
International Building Code 3410.9
Evaluation of building safety. The mandatory safety
score in Table 3410.8 shall be subtracted from the building
score in Table 3410.7 for each category. Where the final score
for any category equals zero or more, the building is in compliance
with the requirements of this section for that category.
Where the final score for any category is less than zero, the
building is not in compliance with the requirements of this section.
Mixed occupancies. For mixed occupancies, the
following provisions shall apply:
1. Where the separation between mixed occupancies
does not qualify for any category indicated in Section
3410.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for the occupancy
with the lowest general safety score in Table
3410.8 shall be utilized (see Section 3410.6.)
2. Where the separation between mixed occupancies
qualifies for any category indicated in Section
3410.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for each occupancy
shall be placed against the evaluation scores for
the appropriate occupancy.
552 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE.
EXISTING STRUCTURES
International Building Code 3410.9.1
Mixed occupancies. For mixed occupancies, the
following provisions shall apply:
1. Where the separation between mixed occupancies
does not qualify for any category indicated in Section
3410.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for the occupancy
with the lowest general safety score in Table
3410.8 shall be utilized (see Section 3410.6.)
2. Where the separation between mixed occupancies
qualifies for any category indicated in Section
3410.6.16, the mandatory safety scores for each occupancy
shall be placed against the evaluation scores for
the appropriate occupancy.