Who Provides the Knox Box, & Where is it Req'd?

9/15/2022

Is there a code requirement - IBC, IFC, or somewhere else - for a Knox Box?

I understand some jurisdictions amend code to require a specific key box - and I'm sure a specific "Knox Box" brand isn't written into code - but just a requirement that triggers the fire department key box to begin with.

I've always asked the jurisdictions whether they wanted one, and they usually do, but I've never found a requirement that I probably should know about by now.

Also, I've had this missed on many a job in a scope gap between subcontractors and the general contractor. What division would supply and install these?

As a consultant I usually get a bunch of pointed fingers elsewhere anytime I ask who is planning on providing it.

Thanks in advance, appreciate the variety of perspectives here.

Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe

18 Comments

Ame Davis

9/15/2022 08:11:00 am

In NPFA 1, Chapter 18 reads as follows:

18.2.2* Access to Structures or Areas.
18.2.2.1 Access Box(es). The AHJ shall have the authority to
require an access box(es) to be installed in an accessible location where access to or within a structure or area is difficult
because of security. The access box(es) shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037.

18.2.2.2 Access to Gated Subdivisions or Developments. The
AHJ shall have the authority to require fire department access
be provided to gated subdivisions or developments through the
use of an approved device or system.

18.2.2.3 Access Maintenance. The owner or occupant of a
structure or area, with required fire department access as specified in 18.2.2.1 or 18.2.2.2, shall notify the AHJ when the access is modified in a manner that could prevent fire department access.

In new construction, it is required to be installed prior to CO. Location to be determined by inspector.

David

9/15/2022 08:13:27 am

Section 506 if the IFC gives the Fire Code Official the authority to require the installation of a Key Box. KNOX get's thrown around too often as a generic term for a key box.

Like many other AHJs we have adopted the key boxes sold through Knox.

Any key box adopted by the AHJ that meets the requirements of Section 506 of the IFC and UL 1037 will work.

Kevin Daniels

9/15/2022 08:14:34 am

Many jurisdictions require a Knox box and even have certain stipulations on expectable models and even who installs it those boxes. Knox box has a very well-known and renowned brand known for strength and security of their products and in all actuality I couldn't even name another brand off the top of my head.

All of this said, NFPA 1 states that The AHJ shall have the authority to require an access box(es) to be installed in an accessible location where access to or within a structure or area is difficult because of security. The access box(es) shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037.

Alex

9/15/2022 08:17:26 am

AHJ has the authority to require a key box. Like David said, Knox Box gets tossed around the same way band-aid does. The AHJ can require a key box.

Manny Rios

9/15/2022 08:22:32 am

In our jurisdiction the knox box requirement is noted in the contract documents which are reviewed/approved by the fire departments. Some require the boxes to be tied in to the security alarm systems of specific structures (schools etc) all depends on the designer requirements.

Jon Nisja

9/15/2022 08:35:05 am

The requirement for a key box comes out of one of the fire codes (IFC or NFPA 1). The AHJ typically specifies a brand so that the proper lock is provided.

In the case of new construction, it has been my experience that the general contractor typically supplies and installs the key box. In the case of existing buildings, it is usually the property owner that purchases and installs the key box.

In this area of the country, there are three brands used - Knox, DAMA, and Supra. There are probably others available also.

Matt Cornell

9/15/2022 08:41:30 am

NFPA 1 and IFC state the access box shall be UL listed. The Knox box is the only access box system that has the UL listing.
So for the most part we are stuck with Knox box being our only resource.

Most cities adopt an ordinance that specifies what system is in place in the jurisdiction.

Dan Wilder

9/15/2022 09:12:18 am

Speaking more to the scope gap side, as an installing contractor, we have a line item specifically removing providing any of these from our scope. When we are requested to purchase, we only provide the FDC caps/plugs (even after telling the GC we are going to charge him OH/P and manpower time for purchase and these are not cheap) but the fire inspector does the actual install during an inspection as they have the key.

Any other of the security boxes we stay away from...if we do get involved, its a purchase and deliver to the GC and we let them do install as needed (wall mount, post mount...).

9/15/2022 10:13:32 am

Thank you Dan! Having the GC be responsible for it seems a little more appropriate than a sprinkler contractor.

Do you have any tips on what plans/scope they should actually be under?

Like, if we could choose from the beginning, should this be on fire alarm plans, or furniture plans or somewhere else? I never have had a good idea on whose scope it's actually supposed to be.

Dan Wilder

9/15/2022 10:31:55 am

Typically, we have seen them under Security/Telecom as they are near access gates or card reader/door access. Whoever is providing doors and hardware would be my second thought. Often times the details are located on the site plans but most of those contractors are very specific as to scope which pushes me back to the GC.

I do not think FA would be a good place as they provide monitoring/notification and there is nothing on these they they would interface with.

Honestly, this should be apart of the GC or OF/CI (owner furnished/contractor installed). Luckily, availability and installation is extremely quick and easy (compared to the overall project) but a good check list item.

Mitchell

9/15/2022 10:28:06 am

Agreed, typically the GC provides it, never seen a sprinkler sub provide one. On our local military installations, the Fire Departments have a stockpile and will sometimes provide them (because they are forgotten/overlooked) and the GC will order and give this one to the FD to refill their supply. This avoids delay in getting one installed since as you mentioned, they are forgotten.

Scott McCormick

9/15/2022 09:42:09 am

Our KnoxBox is in our Local Ordinance. The NJ Fire Code states the box needs to be maintained with updated keys.

Scott McCormick

9/15/2022 09:47:15 am

Also the building owner or business owner shall purchase the box through KnoxBox.com. My office suggests 60” above the ground next to the main entrance. The box is used to rapidly gain access to the building. Getting a ladder to access the box takes time. My staff also have smaller vehicles and they check the keys during the inspections.

Greg Schmitz

9/15/2022 10:09:48 am

In my experience, the AHJ will specify the type and location of key box. The customer will purchase it and install it or have the sprinkler contractor do so. The local engine company will then come lock it once the customer has provided keys in the box.

9/15/2022 10:12:00 am

You all are awesome. Thank you. I've asked on AHJ calls before where/if they're wanted, but I never realized the options in NFPA 1 and the IFC. All the commentary is much appreciated.

Jesse

9/15/2022 10:59:09 am

Most local amendments aren't going to say "Knox" in the same way they won't specify Tyco sprinklers or Potter alarm devices. But they will refer to a rapid entry system or key box and then use Knox as a standard.

Joe Chadwick

9/15/2022 11:03:37 am

To add to some excellent comments:
These are usually specified under Division 10 and need to be anchored with some degree of thought in a location directed by the AHJ. The GC needs to coordinate.
Knox has specific key cuts and profiles licensed to FD’s. Ordering them requires a letter from the FD to confirm the key code. This never goes as easy as it sounds.
Knox uses only Medeco locks. If you want the second (User) key to be a facility standard like Best or Sargent, you’re out of luck. So if there is a campus security force, the Knox box keys need to be ordered in quantity.
I’m not busting on Knox; I get the security concerns. Doing a one-off client as opposed to a group of buildings is different animal.

Aaron Easter link

10/3/2024 03:39:06 am

LATE TO THE CONVERSTAION (...by a couple years)
Our jurisdiction has recently implemented a lock box requirement that has utilized the "KNOX Rapid Access" equipment. As a designee of the Fire Code Official, I can speak on our thought process when choosing KNOX and how we address the requirement during permitting.

When KNOX only?:
1. Standardizing the lockbox makes it easier for responders. One type on all commercial buildings with one training session required for personnel.
2. As FD has sole access to the box, the locks and keys will not be changed or removed without their knowledge.
3. When KNOX is utilized, it takes a significant amount of resources to purchase the equipment

During Plan Review:
1. We put this on the GC for sure. Up to them on who purchases/installs. The GC himself could do this himself as a last resort. Order the box of Knox website, install it per AHJ/ code requirements, add the building keys required, and the Fire Dept. programs the box at building final.
2. My standard comment for designers:
"To enhance safety and accessibility, KNOX security measures are mandatory for all newly constructed or altered commercial buildings within the City of Norman.
a) KNOX Box Location:
i. The KNOX box must be securely mounted within 10 feet of the main entrance.
ii. For strip centers, the box should be placed on the front left side of the building.
b) Additional Boxes:
i. At the fire code official’s discretion, additional KNOX boxes may be required every 75 feet as necessary.
ii. At the fire code official’s discretion, any exterior-accessed riser rooms located more than 50 feet from the main entrance KNOX box (measured along the exterior of the building) must also include a KNOX box that contains two (2) copies of the riser room key.
c) Key Requirements:
i. All KNOX box must include two (2) copies of all essential keys. This includes keys for tenant spaces, riser rooms, fire alarm control panels (FACP), and fire command centers.
ii. All keys must be permanently labeled in a way that resists fading or wear.

We are not currently requiring KNOX retroactively. This will likely follow for all existing buildings depending on current business owner buy in

Hope that can help the next one late to the game ; )

Who Provides the Knox Box, & Where is it Req'd?

Leave a Reply.

ALL-ACCESS

SUBSCRIBE

COMMUNITY

YOUR POST

PE EXAM

FILTERS

ARCHIVES

PE PREP SERIES