Although Title 14F (Fire Prevention Code) of the Chicago Construction Code won’t be implemented until sometime in 2021, the implementation of Title 14B (Building Code) on 8/1/20 has an impact on required fire alarm installation in Chicago. We discussed the changes in occupancy types in a previous post. Today we’ll go over where to find the new requirements for the preparation of shop drawings.
Before we begin, I do want to point out that Title 14B adopts the 2018 International Building Code with amendments. I’ll point out the amendments, as well as any changes from the adoption of the IBC and the previous Chicago Building Code requirements. We’ll begin today with some of the administrative amendments.
Chapter 907.1.1 of the new CBC revises the construction documents conformity requirements to meet Title 14B, 14E (Chicago Electrical Code and 14F (Fire Prevention Code). As mentioned, the Fire Prevention code doesn’t come online until 2021, the interim Fire Prevention Code doesn’t retain the current requirements and the Electrical Code doesn’t deal with specific fire alarm documentation requirements, so what’s a designer to do? The next section provides guidance. Chapter 907.1.2 is revised to require shop drawings adhere to 2016 NFPA 72 requirements, which are found in Chapter 7.4. Some of these requirements are new, such as showing the location of the primary power disconnection means, identification of any ceiling height over 10′ where detection is proposed and details of ceiling geometries (including beams & joists) in areas of detection.
Our next blog will go over some of the specific occupancy fire alarm requirements. Until then, remenber Honeywell’s Gamewell-FCI portfolio of fire alarm systems can meet any jurisdiction’s requirements and will come with the experienced, proactice technical experience you expect. Contact Affiliated Fire Systems for more information.
Gene Rowe – NICET IV, Fire Alarm Systems
About Gene Rowe
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