Working with a 10,500 square foot building that is primarily a wood shop (as the AHJ, fire official). In this building they basically saw cut raw lumber on a large gasoline powered (vented) saw mill inside of the building (this is an issue I question as well). This is a two-part question, at the least!
The occupants claim they are a E occupancy (based on the 2012 IBC/IFC) and that they fall under the 12,000 square feet for automatic fire sprinkler requirements in chapter 9. I look at this as a woodworking facility over 2,500 square feet per 903.2.4.1, that would require automatic fire sprinklers. The organization is not a school, but rather consider themselves as a vocational school that serves students working on their G.E.D. along with troubled students needing extra guidance, and they pay these students. They teach life/work skills and help with job placement. I feel this would either fall under a B-Occupancy for training and skill development not within a school or academic program, or an F-1. Thoughts on this part? Next, even if we would call this an E-Occupancy, would sprinklers be required since it is under the 12,000 square feet? I would think yes because of section 903.2.4.1, however the organization says no because they believe they are an E. I know where I am leaning on this issue, but would welcome any other input. I am all about helping this organization out, but also need to take safety and property preservation into account. This place keeps me up at night with all of the students and hazards present. Submitted anonymously and posted for discussion. Discuss This | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
5 Comments
Henry
9/15/2020 10:11:16 am
B occupancy for vocational (such as a community college)...never received any money for going to an actual school (E occupancy) so I would not classify it as that...wood working operation as well would require a sprinkler.
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Bill
9/15/2020 10:54:03 am
903.2.4.1 would only apply if it is classified at an F-1, and the 2500 sq ft is not the entire building area. It would only apply to the wood-working portion where finely divided combustible waste or materials are used. If you classify it as a "B" or an "E", there would be no sprinkler requirements.
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John
9/15/2020 12:55:24 pm
In my opinion the occupancy classification should be F1 based on highest hazard use of occupancy, or at least a Mixed Occupancy Classification. F1 and B.
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Tony
9/16/2020 08:58:02 am
It is not an E occupancy. IBC 305.1 is clear that E occupancys only apply to students up to the 12 grade. Based on your description, the occupants in this facility are legal adults and over the age of 18.
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Bill
9/16/2020 05:52:42 pm
To determine if it is a B or an F1, more information is needed. The exchange of money does not determine occupancy type. There are many vocational training programs that compensate the participants. If there is a scheduled training program, especially if there is a certification, this is most likely a B occupancy, as this would be an educational occupancy for students above 12th grade or training or skill development.
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