In a previous blog, we discussed which Chicago Construction Codes have already been updated, which are going to be updated on 8/1/20 and which are going to be updated in 2021. We’ve also reviewed one of the upcoming changes to fire alarm requirements in Chicago.
In this blog, we’ll continue to identify changes to required fire alarm systems in Chicago by examining the new building occupancy types. These new occupancy types align with the International Building Code designations and eliminate the existing City of Chicago designations. Here are the designations, along with the previous designations:
Type New Old
Assembly Class A Class C-1, C-2
Business Class B Class E
Educational
K-12 Class E-1 Class C-3 Type IA, IB
Secondary Class B Class C-3 Type II
Daycare Class E-2 Class C-3, Type III
Hospitals Class I-2 Class B
High Rises
Commercial Class B Class E
Residential Class R-2 Class A-2
Hotels Class R-2 Class A-2
It should be noted that Daycare occupancies with 30 or more children aged 0-2 or with any children of that age group located on a level other than the discharge level are classified as I-4. As before, high rises are considered a special use occupancy type. The high rise section of the IBC was not adopted by Chicago and most of the same fire alarm requirements that were in effect previously will be in effect after August 2020. However, there are major changes in store for other occupancies regarding life safety. Our next blog will go over Chicago educational occupancy fire alarm changes.
Gamewell-FCI life safety systems are installed in all types of Chicago occupancies. Be sure to include Gamewell-FCI in your projects to get expert experience, state of the art functionality and quality that will last for years. Contact Affiliated Fire Systems to get more information.
Gene Rowe, SET
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