Code Analysis

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 travel3. 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-4)?

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 occupancy1. Use chart in code to identify Specific

Occupancy Areas (in Ch. 10)2. Create/import Occupancy Calculations

schedule and fill out for each room3. Create 1/32” scale Occupancy Plan and add

color scheme4. Adjust areas for circulation, furniture, etc, and

enter into chart for each level5. Chart calculates toilets, egress component

dimension6. Fix your plans to comply

Occupancy plan

Use a key for specific uses

Other information can be shown

Handy spreadsheet for each level:

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

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

Building Compartmentalization Indicate overall building volume and

levels Color by layer, and make layer semi-

opaque) Draw vertical egress components Draw horizontal egress components Indicate exits to grade clearly

Example: