Code Analysis: Don’t try this at home

Identify the relevant codes  Local building code  Local accessibility code (or ADA)  Local fire code (or the NFPA)  Mechanical, electrical and plumbing codes  Local Zoning Bylaws

780 CMR, The MA Building Code Look at the table of contents Chapter 4: SPECIAL USE AND OCCUPANCY  Chapter 6: TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION  Chapter 8: INTERIOR FINISHES  Chapter 9: FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS  Chapter 10: MEANS OF EGRESS  Chapter 11: ACCESSIBILITY  Chapter 12: INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT  Chapter 13: ENERGY CONSERVATION  Chapter 34 REPAIR… AND CHANGE OF USE OF EXISTING STRUCTURES

Building Code Analysis  Keep together on a drawing or in a document  Four basic steps: 1. Gather general building data (usually written) 2. Calculate occupancy load based on specific use (usually a drawing and a chart) 3. Analyze egress system (usually a drawing) 1. Calculate required capacity of corridors, doors, and stairs 2. Measure maximum length of egress travel 3. Measure separation of exits 4. Confirm compliance with miscellaneous requirements, such as finishes, energy use, etc. (usually in you specifications)

Step 1: Gather general data What is the “Use Group” of the building (Mixed Use) and this project (A-2)? What is the building “Construction Type” (2C)? In Mixed Use, what are the fire ratings between use groups (does not apply to us)? Is it sprinklered throughout (yes)?

IBC Use Group Definitions

Let’s use a spreadsheet…

General Data Example

Miscellaneous definitions

Step 2: Calculate occupancy  Use chart in code for Specific Occupancy Areas (in Ch. 10)  Draw a distinct color/hatch pattern for each area (have a key)  Areas used to calculate overall occupant load (use a chart)  That number determines toilets, lavatories and water fountains  It also determine required egress capacity (corridor, door and stair width)

Occupancy plan

Use a key for specific uses

Other information can be shown

Again, use spreadsheet:

Step 3: The egress system  Egress capacity and dimensions Use required capacity calculation (it’s in inches) Divide by width of the door you have or intend to use (ours are 36”) – result is total # of doors Stair width based on occupancy of floor it serves  Measure separation of exits, and note minimum required  Measure maximum length of exit travel, and note max. allowed

Again, draw from our plans  Use B/W  Use dimensions  Use lines in PowerPoint or Photoshop, as they are easier than in SketchUp

521 CMR, the MA Accessibility code Most of these constraints will apply directly to your plans – we will look at them as we examine parts of your projects Look at the table of contents  There will always be a section on your project type – in this case, Section 19 Recreational Facilities Also…  Section 25: Entrances  Section 26: Doors and doorways  Section 27: Stairs  Section 28: Elevators  Section 29: Floor surfaces  Section 30: Public toilet rooms  Section 32: Kitchens  Section 33: Changing and fitting rooms  Section 34: Storage