WSR 17-03-100

EXPEDITED RULES

BUILDING CODE COUNCIL

[Filed January 17, 2017, 9:42 a.m.]

Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Chapter 51-54A WAC, making corrections to the 2015 International Fire Code, as adopted in Washington state.

NOTICE

THIS RULE IS BEING PROPOSED UNDER AN EXPEDITED RULE-MAKING PROCESS THAT WILL ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR THE AGENCY TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARINGS, PREPARE A SMALL BUSINESS ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT, OR PROVIDE RESPONSES TO THE CRITERIA FOR A SIGNIFICANT LEGISLATIVE RULE. IF YOU OBJECT TO THIS USE OF THE EXPEDITED RULE-MAKING PROCESS, YOU MUST EXPRESS YOUR OBJECTIONS IN WRITING AND THEY MUST BE SENT TO Tim Nogler, Managing Director, Washington State Building Code Council, P.O. Box 41449, Olympia, WA 98504-1449, AND RECEIVED BY March 20, 2017.

Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: Editorial corrections to chapter 51-54A WAC, the 2015 Washington State Fire Code as listed: WAC 51-54A-007, 51-54A-0105, 51-54A-0202 [not included in this filing], 51-54A-0405, 51-54A-0508, 51-54A-0605, 51-54A-0903, 51-54A-0907, 51-54A-8100 and 51-54A-8200; and adding new WAC 51-54A-5307.

Reasons Supporting Proposal: After adoption and publication of the 2015 Washington State Fire Code, chapter 51-54A WAC, errors and omissions of an editorial nature were discovered; these must be corrected to ensure consistent enforcement of the Code. Regarding new section WAC 51-54A-5307, this section was proposed and sent to public hearing in 2015, with no comment received. During the recent implementation period it was discovered that this section was inadvertently deleted from the final rule-making document. This section should be adopted without further consideration to ensure public safety.

Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 19.27.074.

Statute Being Implemented: RCW 19.27.074.

Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.

Name of Proponent: State building code council, governmental.

Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting and Implementation: Joanne T. McCaughan, 1500 Jefferson Street, Olympia, WA 98504, (360) 407-9279; and Enforcement: Local jurisdictions enforce the codes.

January 6, 2017

Steve Simpson

Chair

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-05-065, filed 2/12/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-007 Exceptions.

The exceptions and amendments to the International Fire Code contained in the provisions of chapter 19.27 RCW shall apply in case of conflict with any of the provisions of these rules.

Codes referenced which are not adopted through RCW 19.27.031 or chapter 19.27A RCW shall not apply unless specifically adopted by the authority having jurisdiction. The 2015 International Wildland Urban Interface Code is included in this code as Section ((8100)) 8200 with amendments found in Appendix Chapter N.

The provisions of this code do not apply to temporary growing structures used solely for the commercial production of horticultural plants including ornamental plants, flowers, vegetables, and fruits. "Temporary growing structure" means a structure that has the sides and roof covered with polyethylene, polyvinyl, or similar flexible synthetic material and is used to provide plants with either frost protection or increased heat retention. A temporary growing structure is not considered a building for purposes of this code.

The provisions of this code do not apply to the construction, alteration, or repair of temporary worker housing except as provided by rule adopted under chapter 70.114A RCW or chapter 37, Laws of 1998 (2SSB 6168). "Temporary worker housing" means a place, area, or piece of land where sleeping places or housing sites are provided by an employer for his or her employees or by another person, including a temporary worker housing operator, who is providing such accommodations for employees, for temporary, seasonal occupancy, and includes "labor camps" under RCW 70.54.110.

The manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of fireworks shall be governed by chapter 70.77 RCW and by chapter 212-17 WAC and local ordinances consistent with chapter 212-17 WAC.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-0105 Permits.

SECTION 105 SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

((105.1.1 Permits required. Any property owner or authorized agent who intends to conduct an operation or business, or install or modify systems and equipment, which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done shall first make application to the fire code official and obtain the required permit.))

105.6.4 Carbon dioxide systems. An operational permit is required for carbon dioxide systems having more than 100 pounds of carbon dioxide.

105.6.4.9 Marijuana extraction systems. An operational permit is required to use a marijuana/cannabis extraction system regulated under WAC 314-55-104.

105.7.19 Marijuana extraction systems. A construction permit is required to install a marijuana/cannabis extraction system regulated under ((WAC 244-55-104 [WAC 314-55-104])) WAC 314-55-104.

105.7.20 Underground supply piping for automatic sprinkler system. A construction permit is required for the installation of the portion of the underground water supply piping, public or private, supplying a water-based fire protection system. The permit shall apply to all underground piping and appurtenances downstream of the first control valve on the lateral piping or service line from the distribution main to one foot above finished floor of the facility with the fire protection system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. When the underground piping is installed by the aboveground piping contractor.
	2. Underground piping serves a fire protection system installed in accordance with NFPA 13D.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-0405 Emergency evacuation drills.

405.1 General. Emergency drills complying with the provisions of this section shall be conducted at least annually in the occupancies listed in Section 405.2.1 or when required by the fire code official. Drills shall be designed in cooperation with the local authorities.

405.2 Frequency. Required emergency drills shall be held at the intervals specified in Table 405.2 or more frequently where necessary to familiarize all occupants with the drill procedure.

405.2.1 Group E occupancies. The occupancy shall conduct at a minimum the following drills during the year:

1. One drill using the school mapping information system.


EXCEPTION:	Day cares not colocated on a school campus.

2. Three fire evacuation drills.

3. One shelter-in-place drill.

4. Additional drills shall be as required by RCW 28A.320.125.

Table 405.2

Fire and Evacuation Drill Frequency and Participation


Group or Occupancy	Frequency	Participation
Group A	Quarterly	Employees
Group Bb	Annually	All Occupants
Group Bb,c (Ambulatory Care Facilities)	Annually	Employees
Group Bb (Clinic, outpatient)	Annually	Employees
Group E	Monthlya,e	All Occupants
Group F	Annually	Employees
Group I-1	Semiannually on each shift	All Occupants
Group I-2	Quarterly on each shifta	Employees
Group I-3	Quarterly on each shifta	Employees
Group I-4	Quarterly on each shifta	All Occupants
Group R-1	Quarterly on each shift	Employees
Group R-2f	Quarterly on each shift	Employees
Group R-2d	Four Annually	All Occupants
High-rise buildings	Annually	Employees


a	In severe climates, the fire code official shall have the authority to modify the emergency evacuation drill frequency.
b	Emergency evacuation drills are required in Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the level of exit discharge.
c	Emergency evacuation drills are required in ambulatory care facilities in accordance with Section 403.3.
d	Emergency evacuation drills in Group R-2 college and university buildings shall be in accordance with Section 403.10.2.1. Other Group R-2 occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 403.10.2.2.
e	Day cares colocated on a Group E campus shall participate in emergency drills occurring on the campus.
f	Applicable to group homes licensed by the state of Washington. Emergency evacuation drills for assisted living facilities and residential treatment facilities licensed by the state of Washington are required to meet the requirements of Group I-1.

405.4 Time. Drills shall be held at unexpected times and under varying conditions to simulate the unusual conditions that occur in case of an emergency.

405.5 Recordkeeping. Records shall be maintained of required emergency evacuation drills and include the following information:

1. Identity of the person conducting the drill.

2. Date and time of the drill.

3. Notification method used.

4. Staff members on duty and participating.

5. Number of occupants participating.

6. Special conditions simulated.

7. Problems encountered and corrective actions taken.

8. Weather conditions when occupants were evacuated.

9. Time required to accomplish complete evacuation, or shelter-in-place.

405.6 Notification. Where required by the fire code official, prior notification of emergency evacuation drills shall be given to the fire code official.

405.7 Initiation. Emergency drills shall be initiated in accordance with Sections 405.7.1 through ((405.7.3)) 405.7.2.

405.7.1 Fire evacuation drills. Where a fire alarm system is provided, emergency evacuation drills shall be initiated by activating the fire alarm system. The fire alarm monitoring company shall be notified prior to the activation of the fire alarm system for drills proposed and again at the conclusion of the transmission and restoration of the fire alarm system to normal mode.


EXCEPTION:	Drills conducted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., in assisted living facilities, group homes, and residential treatment facilities licensed by the state of Washington.

405.7.2 Shelter-in-place drills. Shelter-in-place drills shall be initiated by the shelter-in-place alert signal, generated by an alerting system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.

405.8 Accountability. As building occupants arrive at the assembly point, efforts shall be made to determine if all occupants have been successfully evacuated and/or have been accounted for in the shelter-in-place.

405.9 Recall and reentry. The recall signal initiation shall be manually operated and under the control of the person in charge of the premises or the official in charge of the incident. No one shall reenter the premises until authorized to do so by the official in charge.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)

WAC 51-54A-0508 Fire command center.

508.1.2 Separation. The fire command center shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code or horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section ((712)) 711 of the International Building Code, or both.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-0605 Electrical equipment, wiring and hazards.

605.11 Solar photovoltaic power systems. Installation, modification, or alteration of solar photovoltaic power systems shall comply with this section. Due to the emerging technologies in the solar photovoltaic industry, it is understood fire code officials may need to amend prescriptive requirements of this section to meet the requirements for firefighter access and product installations. Section 104.9 Alternative materials and methods of this code shall be considered when approving the installation of solar photovoltaic power systems. Solar photovoltaic power systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 605.11.1 through 605.11.2, the International Building Code and chapter 19.28 RCW.

((605.11.1 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways, and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Sections 605.11.1.1 through 605.11.1.3.3.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Detached, nonhabitable Group U structures including, but not limited to, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures.
	2. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements need not be provided where the fire chief has determined that rooftop operations will not be employed.))

605.11.1.1 Roof access points. Roof access points shall be located in areas that do not require the placement of ground ladders over openings such as windows or doors, and located at strong points of building construction in locations where the access point does not conflict with overhead obstructions such as tree limbs, wires or signs.

605.11.1.2 Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 buildings. Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 buildings shall comply with Sections 605.11.1.2.1 through 605.11.1.2.5.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. These requirements shall not apply to structures designed and constructed in accordance with the International Residential Code((. 1.1.1 Roof access points)).
	2. Residential dwellings with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system installed.
	3. Residential dwellings with approved mechanical or passive ventilation systems.
	4. Where the fire code official determines that the slope of the roof is too steep for emergency access.
	5. Where the fire code official determines that vertical ventilation tactics will not be utilized.
	6. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where the total combined area of the solar array does not exceed thirty-three percent as measured in plan view of the total roof area of the structure, where the solar array will measure 1,000 sq. ft. or less in area, and where a minimum eighteen inches unobstructed pathway shall be maintained along each side of any horizontal ridge.

605.11.1.2.1 Size of solar photovoltaic array.

1. Each photovoltaic array shall be limited to 150 feet (45,720 mm) by 150 feet (45,720 mm). Multiple arrays shall be separated by a 3-foot wide (914 mm) clear access pathway.

2. Panels/modules shall be located up to the roof ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire code official has determined vertical ventilation techniques will not be employed.

((605.11.1.2.2 Hip roof layouts. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings with hip roof layouts shall be located in a manner that provides a 3-foot wide (914 mm) clear access pathway from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope where panels and modules are located. The access pathway shall be at a location on the building capable of supporting the firefighters accessing the roof.


EXCEPTION:	These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.

605.11.1.2.3 Single-ridge roofs. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings with a single ridge shall be located in a manner that provides two, 3-foot wide (914 mm) access pathways from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope where panels and modules are located.


EXCEPTION:	This requirement shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.

605.11.1.2.4 Roofs with hips and valleys. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings with roof hips and valleys shall not be located closer than 18 inches (457 mm) to a hip or a valley where panels/modules are to be placed on both sides of a hip or valley. Where panels are to be located on only one side of a hip or valley that is of equal length, the panels shall be permitted to be placed directly adjacent to the hip or valley.


EXCEPTION:	These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.))

605.11.1.2.5 Allowance for smoke ventilation operations. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings shall be located not less than 18 inches (457 mm) from the ridge in order to allow for fire department smoke ventilation operations.


EXCEPTION:	Panels and modules shall be permitted to be located up to the roof ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire chief has been provided or where the fire chief has determined vertical ventilation techniques will not be employed.

((605.11.1.3 Other than Group R-3 buildings. Access to systems for buildings, other than those containing Group R-3 occupancies, shall be provided in accordance with Sections 605.11.1.3.1 through 605.11.1.3.3.


EXCEPTION:	Where it is determined by the fire code official that the roof configuration is similar to that of a Group R-3 occupancy, the residential access and ventilation requirements in Sections 605.11.1.2.1 through 605.11.1.2.5 shall be permitted to be used.

605.11.1.3.1 Access. There shall be a minimum 6-foot wide (1829 mm) clear perimeter around the edges of the roof.


EXCEPTION:	Where either axis of the building is 250 feet (76,200 mm) or less, the clear perimeter around the edges of the roof shall be permitted to be reduced to a minimum 4 foot wide (1290 mm).

605.11.1.3.2 Pathways. The solar installation shall be designed to provide designated pathways. The pathways shall meet the following requirements:

1. The pathway shall be over areas capable of supporting firefighters accessing the roof.

2. The centerline axis pathways shall be provided in both axes of the roof. Centerline axis pathways shall run where the roof structure is capable of supporting firefighters accessing the roof.

3. Pathways shall be a straight line not less than 4 feet (1290 mm) clear to roof standpipes or ventilation hatches.

4. Pathways shall provide not less than 4 feet (1290 mm) clear around roof access hatch with not less than one singular pathway not less than 4 feet (1290 mm) clear to a parapet or roof edge.

605.11.1.3.3 Smoke ventilation. The solar installation shall be designed to meet the following requirements:

1. Arrays shall be not greater than 150 feet (45,720 mm) by 150 feet (45,720 mm) in distance in either axis in order to create opportunities for fire department smoke ventilation operations.

2. Smoke ventilation options between array sections shall be one of the following:

2.1. A pathway 8 feet (2438 mm) or greater in width.

2.2. A 4-foot (1290 mm) or greater in width pathway and bordering roof skylights or gravity-operated dropout smoke and heat vents on not less than one side.

2.3. A 4-foot (1290 mm) or greater in width pathway and bordering all sides of nongravity-operated dropout smoke and heat vents.

2.4. A 4-foot (1290 mm) or greater in width pathway and bordering 4-foot by 8-foot (1290 mm by 2438 mm) "venting cutouts" every 20 feet (6096 mm) on alternating sides of the pathway.))

605.11.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with Section 605.11 and this section. Setback requirements shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-0903 Automatic sprinkler systems.

903.2.1.6 Assembly occupancies on roofs. Where an occupied roof has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2, and 300 for other Group A occupancies, the building shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.


EXCEPTION:	Open parking garages of Type I or Type II construction.

903.2.1.8 Nightclub. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-2 nightclubs as defined in this code.

903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas containing Group E occupancies where the fire area has an occupant load of 51 or more, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.2.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Portable school classrooms with an occupant load of 50 or less calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.2, provided that the aggregate area of any cluster of portable classrooms does not exceed 6,000 square feet (557 m2); and clusters of portable school classrooms shall be separated as required by the building code; or
	2. Portable school classrooms with an occupant load from 51 through 98, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.2, and provided with two means of direct independent exterior egress from each classroom in accordance with Chapter 10, and one exit from each class room shall be accessible, provided that the aggregate area of any cluster of portable classrooms does not exceed 6,000 square feet (557 m2); and clusters of portable school classrooms shall be separated as required by the building code; or
	3. Fire areas containing day care and preschool facilities with a total occupant load of 100 or less located at the level of exit discharge where every room in which care is provided has not fewer than one exit discharge door.

903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings with a Group I fire area.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group I-1 Condition 1 facilities.
	2. Where new construction or additions house less than sixteen persons receiving care, an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.2.8.3 shall be permitted for Group I-1, Condition 2, assisted living facilities licensed under chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities licensed under chapter 246-337 WAC.

903.2.6.1 Group I-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in fire areas containing Group I-4 occupancies where the fire area has an occupant load of 51 or more, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.1.2.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 day care facilities with a total occupant load of 100 or less, and located at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door.
	2. In buildings where Group I-4 day care is ((provide)) provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be installed on the entire floor where care is provided, all floors between the level of care and the level of exit discharge and all floors below the level of exit discharge other than areas classified as an open parking garage.

903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.


EXCEPTION:	Group R-1 if all of the following conditions apply:
	1. The Group R fire area is no more than 500 square feet and is used for recreational use only.
	2. The Group R fire area is on only one story.
	3. The Group R fire area does not include a basement.
	4. The Group R fire area is no closer than 30 feet from another structure.
	5. Cooking is not allowed within the Group R fire area.
	6. The Group R fire area has an occupant load of no more than 8.
	7. A hand-held (portable) fire extinguisher is in every Group R fire area.

903.2.11.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22,860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, or where new walls, partitions or other similar obstructions are installed that increase the exit access travel distance to more than 75 feet, the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

903.2.11.7 Relocatable buildings within buildings. Relocatable buildings or structures located within a building with an approved fire sprinkler system shall be provided with fire sprinkler protection within the occupiable space of the building and the space underneath the relocatable building.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Sprinkler protection is not required underneath the building when the space is separated from the adjacent space by construction resisting the passage of smoke and heat and combustible storage will not be located there.
	2. If the building or structure does not have a roof or ceiling obstructing the overhead sprinklers.
	3. Construction trailers and temporary offices used during new building construction prior to occupancy.
	4. Movable shopping mall kiosks with a roof or canopy dimension of less than 4 feet on the smallest side.

903.3.5.3 Underground portions of fire protection system water supply piping. The installation or modification of an underground water main, public or private, supplying a water-based fire protection system shall be in accordance with NFPA 24 and chapter 18.160 RCW. Piping and appurtenances downstream of the first control valve on the lateral or service line from the distribution main to one-foot above finished floor shall be approved by the fire code official. Such underground piping shall be installed by a fire sprinkler system contractor licensed in accordance with chapter 18.160 RCW and holding either a Level U or a Level 3 license. For underground piping supplying systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2, a Level 2, 3, or U licensed contractor is acceptable.


EXCEPTION:	Portions of underground piping supplying automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13D.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-0907 Fire alarm and detection systems.

907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less.
	2. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall not be required in Group E occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or less, provided that activation of the manual fire alarm system initiates an approved occupant notification signal in accordance with Section 907.5.
	3. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all of the following apply:
	3.1 Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors.
	3.2 Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums and similar areas are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
	3.3 Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat detectors or other approved detection devices.
	4. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required in Group E occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the emergency voice/alarm communication system will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation.

907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that notifies the occupant notification system shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2, 907.2.6.3.3 and 907.2.6.4.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas of Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies shall not be required at exits if located at nurses' control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continually accessible and that travel distances required in Section 907.4.2 are not exceeded.
	2. Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by the fire code official.

907.2.6.1 Group I-1. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.4.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. For Group I-1 Condition 1 occupancies, smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
	2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior balconies.

907.2.6.4 Group I-4 occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group I-4 occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group I-4 occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or less.
	2. Emergency voice alarm communication systems meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall not be required in Group I-4 occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or less, provided that activation of the manual fire alarm system initiates an approved occupant notification signal in accordance with Section 907.5.

907.5.2.1.2 Maximum sound pressure. The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. For systems operating in public mode, the maximum sound pressure level shall not exceed 30 dBA over the average ambient sound level. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.

907.10 NICET: National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.

907.10.1 Scope. This section shall apply to new and existing fire alarm systems.

907.10.2 Design review: All construction documents shall be reviewed by a NICET III in fire alarms or a licensed professional engineer (PE) in Washington prior to being submitted for permitting. The reviewing professional shall submit a stamped, signed, and dated letter; or a verification method approved by the local authority having jurisdiction indicating the system has been reviewed and meets or exceeds the design requirements of the state of Washington and the local jurisdiction (effective July 1, 2017).

907.10.3 Testing/maintenance: All inspection, testing, maintenance and programing not defined as "electrical construction trade" by chapter 19.28 RCW shall be completed by a NICET II in fire alarms (effective July 1, 2017).

NEW SECTION

WAC 51-54A-5307 Carbon dioxide (CO2) systems.

5307.1 General. Carbon dioxide systems with more than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of carbon dioxide shall comply with Sections 5307.2 through 5307.5.2.

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-063, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)

WAC 51-54A-8100 ((Appendix K—Wildland-Urban-Interface Code.)) Reserved.

((K101.5 Additions or alterations. Additions or alterations may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, provided the addition or alteration conforms to that required for a new building or structure.


EXCEPTION:	Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive. See Sections 402.3, 601.1 and Appendix A.

Additions or alterations shall not cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate access in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits or access; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.

K108.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the International Building Code, the code official may require site plans which include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings, and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan.

K108.4 Vegetation management plans. When required by the code official or when utilized by the permit applicant pursuant to Section 502, vegetation management plans shall be prepared and shall be submitted to the code official for review and approval as part of the plans required for a permit. See Appendix B.

K108.7 Vicinity plan. When required by the code official, the requirements for site plans shall include details regarding the vicinity within 300 feet (91,440 mm) of property lines, including other structures, slope, vegetation, fuel breaks, water supply systems and access roads.

K402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the International Fire Code.

K402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.

K402.2 Individual structures. Individual structures shall comply with Sections 402.2.1 and 402.2.2.

K402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the International Fire Code.

K402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Structures constructed to meet the requirements for the class of ignition-resistant construction specified in Table K503.1 for a nonconforming water supply.
	2. Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings with a floor area of not more than 600 square feet (56 m2).

K402.3 Existing conditions. Existing address markers, roads and fire protection equipment shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.

Table K503.1

Ignition-Resistant Constructiona


	Fire Hazard Severity
	Moderate Hazard		High Hazard		Extreme Hazard
	Water Supplyb		Water Supplyb		Water Supplyb
Defensible Spacec	Conforming	Nonconforming	Conforming	Nonconforming	Conforming	Nonconforming
Nonconforming	IR 2	IR 1	IR 1	IR 1 N.C.	IR 1 N.C.	Not Permitted
Conforming	IR 3	IR 2	IR 2	IR 1	IR 1	IR 1 N.C.
1.5 x Conforming	Not Required	IR 3	IR 3	IR 2	IR 2	IR 1


	aAccess shall be in accordance with Section 402.
	bWater supply shall be in accordance with Section 402.1.
	IR 1 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 504.
	IR 2 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 505.
	IR 3 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 506.
	N.C. = Exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and the exterior surfaces of such walls shall be noncombustible. Usage of log wall construction is allowed.
	c Conformance based on Section 603.

K403 Access. This section not adopted.

K404 Water supply. This section not adopted.

APPENDIX B-VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN - THIS APPENDIX IS ADOPTED.

APPENDIX C-FIRE DANGER RATING SYSTEM - THIS APPENDIX IS ADOPTED.))

AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-055, filed 1/16/16, effective 7/1/16)

WAC 51-54A-8200 Appendix N—Wildland Urban Interface Code.

((Reserved.))

N101.5 Additions or alterations. Additions or alterations may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, provided the addition or alteration conforms to that required for a new building or structure.


EXCEPTION:	Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive. See Sections 402.3, 601.1 and Appendix A.

N108.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the International Building Code, the code official may require site plans which include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings, and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan.

N108.4 Vegetation management plans. When required by the code official or when utilized by the permit applicant pursuant to Section 502, vegetation management plans shall be prepared and shall be submitted to the code official for review and approval as part of the plans required for a permit. See Appendix B.

N108.7 Vicinity plan. When required by the code official, the requirements for site plans shall include details regarding the vicinity within 300 feet (91,440 mm) of property lines, including other structures, slope, vegetation, fuel breaks, water supply systems and access roads.

N402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the International Fire Code.

N402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.

N402.2 Individual structures. Individual structures shall comply with Sections 402.2.1 and 402.2.2.

N402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the International Fire Code.

N402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with the International Fire Code.


EXCEPTIONS:	1. Structures constructed to meet the requirements for the class of ignition-resistant construction specified in Table N503.1 for a nonconforming water supply.
	2. Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings with a floor area of not more than 600 square feet (56 m2).

N402.3 Existing conditions. Existing address markers, roads and fire protection equipment shall be in accordance with the International Fire Code.

Table N503.1

Ignition-Resistant Constructiona


	Fire Hazard Severity
	Moderate Hazard		High Hazard		Extreme Hazard
	Water Supplyb		Water Supplyb		Water Supplyb
Defensible Spacec	Conforming	Nonconforming	Conforming	Nonconforming	Conforming	Nonconforming
Nonconforming	IR 2	IR 1	IR 1	IR 1 N.C.	IR 1 N.C.	Not Permitted
Conforming	IR 3	IR 2	IR 2	IR 1	IR 1	IR 1 N.C.
1.5 x Conforming	Not Required	IR 3	IR 3	IR 2	IR 2	IR 1


	aAccess shall be in accordance with Section 402.
	bWater supply shall be in accordance with Section 402.1.
	IR 1 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 504.
	IR 2 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 505.
	IR 3 = Ignition-resistant construction in accordance with Section 506.
	N.C. = Exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and the exterior surfaces of such walls shall be noncombustible. Usage of log wall construction is allowed.
	c Conformance based on Section 603.

N403 Access. This section not adopted.

N404 Water supply. This section not adopted.

APPENDIX B-VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN - THIS APPENDIX IS ADOPTED.

APPENDIX C-FIRE DANGER RATING SYSTEM - THIS APPENDIX IS ADOPTED.