CCLME.ORG - State building code adoption and amendment of the 2003 edition of the international fire code

State
Washington Regulations
Chapter 51-54 WAC State building code adoption and amendment of the 2003 edition of the international fire code

Last Update: 12/5/05

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51-54-001
Authority.
These rules are adopted under the authority of chapter 19.27 RCW.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-001, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-002
Purpose.
The purpose of these rules is to implement the provisions of chapter 19.27 RCW, which provides that the State Building Code council shall maintain the State Building Code in a status which is consistent with the purpose as set forth in RCW 19.27.020. In maintaining the codes the council shall regularly review updated versions of the codes adopted under the act, and other pertinent information, and shall amend the codes as deemed appropriate by the council.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-002, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-003
International Fire Code.
The 2003 edition of the International Fire Code, published by the International Code Council is hereby adopted by reference with the following additions, deletions, and exceptions.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-003, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-007
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 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 (SB 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.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-007, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-008
Implementation.
The International Fire Code adopted by chapter 51-54 WAC shall become effective in all counties and cities of this state on July 1, 2004.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-008, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-0100
Chapter 1 — Administration.

105.6.17 Flammable or combustible liquids. An operational permit is required:

1. To use or operate a pipeline for the transportation within facilities of flammable or combustible liquids. This requirement shall not apply to the off-site transportation in pipelines regulated by the department of transportation (DOT) nor does it apply to piping systems.

2. To store, handle or use Class I liquids in excess of 5 gallons (19 L) in a building or in excess of 10 gallons (37.9 L) outside of a building, except that a permit is not required for the following:

2.1 The storage or use of Class I liquids in the fuel tank of a motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat, mobile power plant or mobile heating plant, unless such storage, in the opinion of the code official, would cause an unsafe condition.

2.2 The storage or use of paints, oils, varnishes or similar flammable mixtures when such liquids are stored for maintenance, painting or similar purposes for a period of not more than 30 days.

3. To store, handle or use Class II or Class III-A liquids in excess of 25 gallons (95 L) in a building or in excess of 60 gallons (227 L) outside a building, except for fuel oil used in connection with oil-burning equipment.

4. To remove Class I or Class II liquids from an underground storage tank used for fueling motor vehicles by any means other than the approved, stationary on-site pumps normally used for dispensing purposes.

5. To operate tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants, terminals, wells, fuel-dispensing stations, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities where flammable and combustible liquids are produced, processed, transported, stored, dispensed or used.

6. To place temporarily out-of-service (for more than 90 days) an underground, protected above-ground or above-ground flammable or combustible liquid tank.

7. To change the type of contents stored in a flammable or combustible liquid tank to a material which poses a greater hazard than that for which the tank was designed and constructed.

8. To manufacture, process, blend or refine flammable or combustible liquids.

9. To engage in the dispensing of liquid fuels into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments.

10. To utilize a site for the dispensing of liquid fuels from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments.

11. To utilize a site for the dispensing of liquid fuels from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of marine craft and special equipment at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0100, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-0200
Chapter 2 — Definitions.

SECTION 202 GENERAL DEFINITIONS.

ADULT FAMILY HOME means a dwelling in which a person or persons provide personal care, special care, room and board to more than one but not more than six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the services.

CHILD DAY CARE, shall, for the purposes of these regulations, mean the care of children during any period of a 24-hour day.

ELECTRICAL CODE is the National Electrical Code, promulgated by the National Fire Protection Association, as adopted in chapter 296-46 WAC, or the locally adopted Electrical Code.

FAMILY CHILD DAY CARE HOME is a child day care facility, licensed by the state, located in the dwelling of the person or persons under whose direct care and supervision the child is placed, for the care of twelve or fewer children, including children who reside at the home.

NIGHTCLUB. An establishment, other than a theater with fixed seating, which includes all of the following:

1. Provides live entertainment by paid performing artists or by way of recorded music conducted by a person employed or engaged to do so;

2. Has as its primary source of revenue the sale of beverages of any kind for consumption on the premises and/or cover charges;

3. Has an occupant load of 100 or more as determined by the fire code official; and

4. Includes assembly space without fixed seats considered concentrated or standing space per Table 1004.1.2.

Paid performing artists are those entertainers engaged to perform in a for-profit business establishment.

EDUCATIONAL GROUP E. Educational Group E Occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, by six or more persons at any one time for educational purposes through the 12th grade. Religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums, which are accessory to churches in accordance with Section 302.2 of the IBC and have occupant loads of less than 100, shall be classified as Group A-3 Occupancies.

Day Care. The use of a building or structure, or portion thereof, for educational, supervision or personal care services for more than five children older than 2 1/2 years of age, shall be classified as a Group E Occupancy.

EXCEPTION: Family child day care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services for the care of twelve or fewer children shall be classified as Group R3.

INSTITUTIONAL GROUP I. Institutional Group I Occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, in which people, cared for or living in a supervised environment and having physical limitations because of health or age, are harbored for medical treatment or other care or treatment, or in which people are detained for penal or correctional purposes or in which the liberty of the occupants is restricted. Institutional occupancies shall be classified as Group I-1, I-2, I-3 or I-4.

Group I-1. This occupancy shall include buildings, structures or parts thereof housing more than 16 persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment that provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

Residential board and care facilities

Assisted living facilities

Halfway houses

Group homes

Congregate care facilities

Social rehabilitation facilities

Alcohol and drug centers

Convalescent facilities

A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons and adult family homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services shall be classified as a Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. A facility such as above, housing at least six and not more than 16 persons, shall be classified as Group R-4.

A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Section 313.1 regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services shall be classified as Licensed Care Group LC.

Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis of more than five persons who are not capable of self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

Hospitals

Nursing homes (both intermediate-care facilities and skilled nursing facilities)

Mental hospitals

Detoxification facilities

A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Section 313.1 regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services shall be classified as Licensed Care Group LC.

Group I-3. (Remains as printed in the IFC.)

Group I-4. Day care facilities. This group shall include buildings and structures occupied by persons of any age who receive custodial care for less than 24 hours by individuals other than parents or guardians, relatives by blood marriage, or adoption, and in a place other than the home of the person cared for. A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code. Places of worship during religious functions are not included.

Adult care facility. A facility that provides accommodations for less than 24 hours for more than five unrelated adults and provides supervision and personal care services shall be classified as Group I-4.

EXCEPTION: Where the occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from the staff, the facility shall be classified as Group A-3.

Child care facility. A facility that provides supervision and personal care on a less than 24-hour basis for more than five children 2 1/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-4.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. A child day care facility that provides care for more than five but no more than 100 children 2 1/2 years or less of age, when the rooms where such children are cared for are located on the level of exit discharge and each of these child care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior, shall be classified as Group E.
2. Family child day care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services for the care of 12 or fewer children shall be classified as Group R3.

RESIDENTIAL GROUP R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or Licensed Care Group LC. Residential occupancies shall include the following:

R-1 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including:

Boarding houses (transient)

Hotels (transient)

Motels (transient)

R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including:

Apartment houses

Boarding houses (not transient)

Convents

Dormitories

Fraternities and sororities

Monasteries

Vacation timeshare properties

Hotels (nontransient)

Motels (nontransient)

R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as R-1, R-2, R-4 or I and where buildings do not contain more than two dwelling units as applicable in Section 101.2, including adult family homes and family child day care homes for the care of 12 or fewer children, licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services, or adult and child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours. Adult family homes and family child day care homes, or adult and child care facilities that are within a single-family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

Foster family care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services shall be permitted, as an accessory use to a dwelling, for six or fewer children including those of the resident family.

R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted living facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.

EXCEPTION: Adult family homes, family child day care homes and foster family care homes shall be classified as Group R-3.

Group R-4 occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3 except as otherwise provided for in this code or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

LICENSED CARE GROUP LC. Licensed Care Group LC includes the use of a building, structure, or portion thereof, for the business of providing licensed care to clients in one of the following categories regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services:

1. Adult residential rehabilitation facility.

2. Alcoholism intensive inpatient treatment service.

3. Alcoholism detoxification service.

4. Alcoholism long-term treatment service.

5. Alcoholism recovery house service.

6. Boarding home.

7. Group care facility.

8. Group care facility for severely and multiple handicapped children.

9. Residential treatment facility for psychiatrically impaired children and youth.

EXCEPTION: Where the care provided at an alcoholism detoxification service is acute care similar to that provided in a hospital, the facility shall be classified as a Group I-2 Occupancy.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-24-071, § 51-54-0200, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0200, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-0300
Chapter 3 — General precautions against fire.

307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed. See also chapter 173-425 WAC.

307.3.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. See also chapter 173-425 WAC.

308.3.1 Open-flame cooking devices. This section is not adopted.

308.3.1.1 Liquefied-petroleum-gas-fueled cooking devices. This section is not adopted.

308.3.4 Aisles and exits. Candles shall be prohibited in areas where occupants stand, or in an aisle or exit.

EXCEPTION: Candles used in religious ceremonies. See RCW 19.27.031(3).

308.3.5 Religious ceremonies. Participants in religious ceremonies shall not be precluded from carrying hand-held candles.

308.3.7 Group A Occupancies. Open-flame devices shall not be used in a Group A Occupancy.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Open-flame devices are allowed to be used in the following situations:
1.1 Where necessary for ceremonial or religious purposes in accordance with Section 308.5.
1.2 On stages and platforms as a necessary part of a performance in accordance with Section 308.6, provided approved precautions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible material or injury to occupants.
1.3 Where candles on tables are securely supported on substantial noncombustible bases and the candle flames are protected provided approved precautions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible material or injury to occupants.
2. Heat-producing equipment complying with Chapter 6 and the International Mechanical Code.
3. Gas lights are allowed to be used provided adequate precautions satisfactory to the fire code official are taken to prevent ignition of combustible materials.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-016, § 51-54-0300, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0300, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-0400
Chapter 4 — Emergency planning and preparedness.

401.2 Approval. Where required by the fire code official, fire safety plans, emergency procedures, and employee training programs shall be approved.

404.2 Where required. A fire safety and evacuation plan shall be prepared and maintained in accordance with this chapter for the following occupancies and buildings when required by the fire code official.

1. Group A having an occupant load of 100 or more.

2. Group E.

3. Group H.

4. Group I.

5. Group R-1.

6. Group R-4.

7. Group LC.

8. High-rise buildings.

9. Group M buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

10. Covered malls exceeding 50,000 sf in aggregate floor area.

11. Underground buildings.

12. Buildings with an atrium and having an occupancy in Group A, E, or M.

404.4 Maintenance. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be reviewed by the owner or occupant annually or as necessitated by changes in staff assignments, occupancy, or the physical arrangement of the building.

408.11.1.1 Approval. The lease plan shall be submitted to the fire code official, and shall be maintained on-site for immediate reference by responding fire service personnel.

408.11.1.2 Revisions. The lease plan shall be reviewed by the owner or occupant and revised annually or as often as necessary to keep them current.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-016, § 51-54-0400, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05.]

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51-54-0500
Chapter 5 — Fire service features.

SECTION 503 FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS.

503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with locally adopted street, road, and access standards.

503.1.1 Buildings and facilities, is not adopted.

503.1.2 Additional access, is not adopted.

503.1.3 High-piled storage, is not adopted.

503.2 Specifications. This section is not adopted.

503.3 Marking. This section is not adopted.

503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. This section is not adopted.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0500, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-0800
Chapter 8 — Interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings.

804.l.1 Restricted occupancies. Natural cut trees shall be prohibited in Group I-1, I-2, I-3, I-4, LC and R-4 occupancies.

804.l.2 Support devices. The support device that holds the tree in an upright position shall be of a type that is stable and that meets all of the following criteria:

1. The device shall hold the tree securely and be of adequate size to avoid tipping over of the tree.

2. The device shall be capable of containing a minimum supply of water in accordance with Table 804.1.2.

3. The water level, when full, shall cover the tree stem at least 2 inches (51 mm). The water level shall be maintained above the fresh cut and checked at least once daily.

804.l.3 Dryness. The tree shall be removed from the building whenever the tree is determined to be dry by needle pliability, discoloration or other approved means as approved by the fire code official. The tree shall be checked daily for dryness.

Table 804.1.2 -- Support Stand Water Capacity Tree Stem Diameter (inches) Minimum Support Stand Water Capacity (gallons) Typical Daily Water Transpiration Amount (gallons)
Up to 4 1 1/4 to 1
4 to 6 1 1/2 1 1/4 to 1 1/2
7 to 8 2 1 3/4 to 2
9 to 12 3 2 1/4 to 3
13 and over 4 Over 3

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-016, § 51-54-0800, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05.]

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51-54-0900
Chapter 9 — Fire protection systems.

902.1 Definitions.

PORTABLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which requires a chassis to be transported, and is designed to be used as an educational space with or without a permanent foundation. The structure shall be trailerable and capable of being demounted and relocated to other locations as needs arise.

903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 Occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).

2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.

3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.

903.2.1.6 Nightclub. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout an occupancy with a nightclub. Existing nightclubs constructed prior to July 1, 2006, shall be provided with automatic sprinklers not later than December 1, 2007. The fire code official, for the application of this rule, may establish an occupant load based on the observed use of the occupancy in accordance with Table 1004.1.2.

903.2.2 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E Occupancies as follows:

1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 square feet (1858 m2) in area.

2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the level of exit discharge.

EXCEPTION: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any fire area or area below the level of exit discharge where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level.

3. Throughout all newly constructed Group E Occupancies having an occupant load of 50 or more for more than 12 hours per week or four hours in any one day. A minimum water supply meeting the requirements of NFPA 13 shall be required. The fire code official may reduce fire flow requirements for buildings protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.

For the purpose of this section, additions exceeding 60 percent of the value of such building or structure, or alterations and repairs to any portion of a building or structure within a twelve-month period that exceeds 100 percent of the value of such building or structure shall be considered new construction. In the case of additions, fire walls shall define separate buildings.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Portable school classrooms, provided aggregate area of clusters of portable school classrooms does not exceed 5,000 square feet (1465 m2); and clusters of portable school classrooms shall be separated as required in Chapter 5 of the building code.
2. Group E Day Care.

When not required by other provisions of this chapter, a fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with NFPA 13 may be used for increases and substitutions allowed in Section 504.2, 506.3, and Table 601 of the building code.

903.2.10.3 Buildings over 75 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a floor level having an occupant load of 30 or more that is located 75 feet (22 860 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Airport control towers.
2. Open parking structures.
3. Occupancies in Group F-2.

909.6.3 Elevator shaft pressurization. Where elevator shaft pressurization is required to comply with Exception 5 of Section 707.14.1, the pressurization system shall comply with the following.

909.6.3.1 Standards and testing. Elevator shafts shall be pressurized to not less than 0.10 inch water column relative to atmospheric pressure. Elevator pressurization shall be measured with the elevator cars at the designated primary recall level with the doors in the open position. The test shall be conducted at the location of the calculated maximum positive stack effect in the elevator shaft. The measured pressure shall be sufficient to provide 0.10 inch of water column as well as accounting for the stack and wind effect expected on the mean low temperature January day.

909.6.3.2 Activation. The elevator shaft pressurization system shall be activated by a fire alarm system which shall include smoke detectors or other approved detectors located near the elevator shaft on each floor as approved by the building official and fire chief. If the building has a fire alarm panel, detectors shall be connected to, with power supplied by, the fire alarm panel.

909.6.3.3 Separation. Elevator shaft pressurization equipment and its ductwork located within the building shall be separated from other portions of the building by construction equal to that required for the elevator shaft.

909.6.3.4 Location of intakes. Elevator shaft pressurization air intakes shall be located in accordance with Section909.10.3 . Such intakes shall be provided with smoke detectors which upon detection of smoke, shall deactivate the pressurization fan supplied by that air intake.

909.6.3.5 Power system. The power source for the fire alarm system and the elevator shaft pressurization system shall be in accordance with Section 909.11.

909.6.3.6 Hoistway venting. Hoistway venting required by IBC Section 3004 need not be provided for pressurized elevator shafts.

909.6.3.7 Machine rooms. Elevator machine rooms required to be pressurized by IBC Section 3006.3 need not be pressurized where separated from the hoistway shaft by construction in accordance with IBC Section 707.

909.6.3.8 Special inspection. Special inspection for performance shall be required in accordance with Section909.18.8 . System acceptance shall be in accordance with Section 909.19.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-24-071, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-0900, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-1000
Chapter 10 — Means of egress.

1008.1.2 Door swing. Egress doors shall be side-hinged swinging.

Exceptions: 1. Private garages, office areas, factory and storage areas with an occupant load of 10 or less.
2. Group I-3 Occupancies used as a place of detention.
3. Doors within or serving a single dwelling unit in Groups R-2 and R-3 as applicable in Section 101.2.
4. In other than Group H Occupancies, revolving doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.1.
5. In other than Group H Occupancies, horizontal sliding doors complying with Section 1008.1.3.3 are permitted in a means of egress.
6. Power-operated doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.3.1.
Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel where serving an occupant load of 50 or more persons or a Group H Occupancy.

The opening force for interior side-swinging doors without closers shall not exceed a 5-pound force. For other side-swinging, sliding, and folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a 15-pound force. The door shall be set in motion when subjected to a 30-pound force. The door shall swing to a full-open position when subjected to a 15-pound force. Forces shall be applied to the latch side. Within an accessible route, at exterior doors where environmental conditions require a closing pressure greater than 8.5 pounds, power-operated doors shall be used within the accessible route of travel.

1009.13 Stairs or ladders within an individual dwelling unit used to gain access to areas of 200 square feet (18.6 m2) or less, and not containing the primary bathroom or kitchen, are exempt from the requirements of Section 1009.

1010.8 Handrails. Ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches (152 mm) shall have handrails on both sides complying with Section 1009.11. At least one handrail shall extend in the direction of ramp run not less than 12 inches (305 mm) horizontally beyond the top and bottom of the ramp runs.

1024.11 Assembly aisle walking surfaces. Aisles with a slope not exceeding one unit vertical in eight units horizontal (12.5-percent slope) shall consist of a ramp having a slip-resistant walking surface. Aisles with a slope exceeding one unit vertical in eight units horizontal (12.5-percent slope) shall consist of a series of risers and treads that extends across the full width of aisles and complies with Sections 1024.11.1 through 1024.11.3.

EXCEPTION: When provided with fixed seating, aisles in Group A-1 Occupancies shall be permitted to have a slope not steeper than one unit vertical in five units horizontal (20-percent slope).

1024.13 Handrails. Ramped aisles having a slope exceeding one unit vertical in 15 units horizontal (6.7-percent slope) and aisle stairs shall be provided with handrails located either at the side or within the aisle width.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Handrails are not required for ramped aisles having a gradient no greater than one unit vertical in five units horizontal (20-percent slope) and seating on both sides.
2. Handrails are not required if, at the side of the aisle, there is a guard that complies with the graspability requirements of handrails.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-1000, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-1500
Chapter 15 — Flammable finishes.

1503.2.1.1 Spray and vapor areas. Electrical wiring and equipment in spray and vapor areas shall be of an explosion-proof type approved for use in such hazardous locations. Such areas shall be considered to be Class I, Division 1 or Class II, Division 1 hazardous locations in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.

1503.2.2 Open flames and sparks. Open flames and spark-producing devices shall not be located in spray or vapor areas and shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of such areas unless separated by a permanent partition.

1503.2.4 Equipment enclosures. Equipment or apparatus that is capable of producing sparks or particles of hot metal that would fall into a spray or vapor area shall be totally enclosed.

1503.2.6 Smoking prohibited. Smoking shall be prohibited in spray or vapor areas. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall be conspicuously posted in such areas.

1504.1.3 Spraying areas. Spraying areas shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the International Building Code and Sections 1504.1.3.1, 1504.2, 1504.3, 1504.4, 1504.5 and 1504.6 of this code.

1504.1.3.1 Floor. Combustible floor construction in spraying areas shall be covered by approved, noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where combustible coverings, such as thin paper or plastic and strippable coatings are utilized over noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning operations in spraying areas.

1504.4 Different coatings. Spray booths, spray rooms and spray areas shall not be alternately utilized for different types of coating materials where the combination of materials is conducive to spontaneous ignition, unless all deposits of one material are removed from the booth, room or area and exhaust ducts prior to spraying with a different material.

1504.5 Illumination. Where spraying areas, spray rooms or spray booths are illuminated through glass panels or other transparent materials, only fixed lighting units shall be utilized as a source of illumination.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-016, § 51-54-1500, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05.]

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51-54-3000
Chapter 30 — Compressed gasses.

3006.1 General. Compressed gases at hospitals and similar facilities intended for inhalation or sedation including, but not limited to, analgesia systems for dentistry, podiatry, veterinary and similar uses shall comply with this section in addition to other requirements of this chapter.

EXCEPTION: All distribution piping, supply manifolds, connections, regulators, valves, alarms, sensors and associated equipment shall be in accordance with the Plumbing Code.

3006.4 Medical gas systems. This section is not adopted.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-3000, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-3300
Chapter 33 — Explosives and fireworks.

3301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of explosives, explosive materials, and small arms ammunition. The manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of fireworks shall be governed by chapter 70.77 RCW, and by chapter 212-12 WAC and local ordinances consistent with chapter 212-17 WAC.

Exceptions: 1. The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National Guard.
2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopoeia.
3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition when packaged in accordance with DOT packaging requirements.
4. The possession, storage and use of not more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and 10,000 small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption.
5. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities.
6. Special industrial explosive devices in which the aggregate contain less than 50 pounds (23 kg) of explosive materials.
7. The possession, storage and use of blank industrial-power load cartridges when packaged in accordance with DOT packaging regulations.
8. Transportation in accordance with DOT 49 CFR Parts 100-178.
9. Items preempted by federal regulations.

3301.1.1 Explosive material standard. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, NFPA 495 shall govern the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use of explosive materials. See also chapter 70.74 RCW and chapter 296-52 WAC.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-3300, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-3400
Chapter 34 — Flammable and combustible liquids.

3402.1 Definitions.

MOTOR VEHICLE. For the purposes of this chapter, the term motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to, a vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or semi-trailer, or any combination thereof, propelled or drawn by mechanical power and used upon the highways in the transportation of passengers or property. The term "motor vehicle" also includes freight containers or cargo tanks used, or intended for use, in connection with motor vehicles. For reference, see 49 CFR Pt. 171.8 (October 1994).

3404.2.7.10.1 Leaking tank disposition. Leaking tanks shall be handled in accordance with WAC 173-360-325.

3404.2.7.11 Tank lining. Steel tanks are allowed to be lined only for the purpose of protecting the interior from corrosion or providing compatibility with a material to be stored. Only those liquids tested for compatibility with the lining material are allowed to be stored in lined tanks. Lining of leaking underground storage tanks shall be done in accordance with the provisions of WAC 173-360-325.

3404.2.8.7 Arrangement. Tanks shall be listed for above-ground use, and each tank shall be in its own vault.

EXCEPTION: Below-grade vaults may contain a maximum of three tanks.

Compartmentalized tanks shall be allowed and shall be considered as a single tank. Adjacent vaults shall be allowed to share a common wall. The common wall shall be liquid and vapor tight and shall be designed to withstand the load imposed when the vault on either side of the wall is filled with water.

3404.2.11 Underground tanks. Underground storage of flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply with Section 3404.2 and Sections 3404.2.11.1 through 3404.2.11.5.2. Corrosion protection shall comply with WAC 173-360-305.

3405.4.1 Unit with a capacity of 60 gallons or less. Solvent distillation units used to recycle Class I, II or III-A liquids having a distillation chamber capacity of 60 gallons or less shall be listed, labeled and installed in accordance with Section 3405.4 and UL 2208.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. Solvent distillation units installed in dry-cleaning plants in accordance with Chapter 12.
2. Solvent distillation units used in continuous through-put industrial processes where the source of heat is remotely supplied using steam, hot water, oil or other heat transfer fluids, the temperature of which is below the autoignition point of the solvent.
3. Approved research, testing and experimental processes.

3406.5.4 Dispensing from tank vehicles and tank cars. Class I, II or III liquids shall be transferred from a tank vehicle or tank car only into an approved atmospheric tank or approved portable tank, except as provided in Sections 3406.5.4.1 through 3406.5.4.5.

3406.5.4.1 Marine craft and special equipment. Liquids intended for use as motor fuels are allowed to be transferred from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of marine craft and special equipment when approved by the fire code official, and when:

1. The tank vehicle's specific function is that of supplying fuel to fuel tanks.

2. The operation is not performed where the public has access or where there is unusual exposure to life and property.

3. The dispensing line does not exceed 50 feet in length.

4. The dispensing nozzle is approved.

5. Each premises is issued a separate permit in accordance with Section 105.6.17.

3406.5.4.5 Commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing. Dispensing of Class II and III motor vehicle fuel from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles located at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments is allowed where permitted, provided such dispensing operations are conducted in accordance with the following: (Those sections not noted here remain unchanged.)

6. Mobile fueling shall not take place within 15 feet of streets, alleys, public ways, buildings, property lines, combustible storage or storm drains.

EXCEPTIONS: 1. The distance to storm drains can be eliminated if an approved storm drain cover or an approved equivalent that will prevent any fuel from reaching the drain is in place prior to fueling or home being placed within 15 feet of the drain. When placement of a storm drain cover will cause the accumulation of excessive water or difficulty in safely conducting the fueling, it shall not be used and the fueling shall not take place within 15 feet of a drain.
2. The distance to storm drains can be eliminated for drains that direct intake to approved oil-water separators.

12. Fuel delivery vehicles shall be equipped with clean-up supplies in accordance with the department of ecology's Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington, Volume IV - Source Control BMP (Publication No. 99-14). Such supplies shall be readily available for employment by the operator at all times.

17. Fuel dispensing is prohibited within 25 feet of any source of ignition.

25. Operators shall place a drip pan or absorbent, in good condition, under each fuel fill opening prior to and during all dispensing operations. Drip pans shall be liquid-tight. The pan or absorbent shall have a capacity of at least 3 gallons. Spills retained in the drip pan or absorbent pillow need not be reported. Operators, when fueling, shall have on their persons an absorbent pad capable of capturing diesel foam overfills. Except during fueling, the nozzle shall face upwards and an absorbent pad shall be kept under the nozzle to prevent drips. Contaminated absorbent pads shall be disposed of regularly in accordance with local, state and federal requirements.

26. All persons and parties with an interest in the property (i.e., property owner, lessor, real estate company, property manager as well as operators of the property) must give consent in writing to allow the mobile fueling to occur on the property. Managers, lessees, renters and other persons cannot solely give permission. Each person or party must indicate that they are under the risk of spills.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-105, § 51-54-3400, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]

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51-54-4600
Chapter 46 — Marinas.

SECTION 4601

4601.1 Scope. Marina facilities shall be in accordance with this chapter.

4601.1.1 Plans and approvals. Plans for marina fire-protection facilities shall be approved prior to installation. The work shall be subject to final inspection and approval after installation.

4601.1.2 Permits. Permits are required to use open-flame devices for maintenance or repair on vessels, floats, piers or wharves.

SECTION 4602 -- DEFINITIONS.

4602.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purpose of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

FLOAT is a floating structure normally used as a point of transfer for passengers and goods, or both, for mooring purposes.

MARINA is any portion of the ocean or inland water, either naturally or artificially protected, for the mooring, servicing or safety of vessels and shall include artificially protected works, the public or private lands ashore, and structures or facilities provided within the enclosed body of water and ashore for the mooring or servicing of vessels or the servicing of their crews or passengers.

PIER is a structure built over the water, supported by pillars or piles, and used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion or similar purpose.

VESSEL is watercraft of any type, other than seaplanes on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation. Included in this definition are nontransportation vessels such as houseboats and boathouses.

WHARF is a structure or bulkhead constructed of wood, stone, concrete or similar material built at the shore of a harbor, lake or river for vessels to lie alongside of, and piers or floats to be anchored to.

SECTION 4603 -- GENERAL PRECAUTIONS.

4603.1 Combustible debris. Combustible debris and rubbish shall not be deposited or accumulated on land beneath marina structures, piers or wharves.

4603.2 Sources of ignition. Open-flame devices used for lighting or decoration on the exterior of a vessel, float, pier or wharf shall be approved.

4603.3 Flammable or combustible liquid spills. Spills of flammable or combustible liquids at or upon the water shall be reported immediately to the fire department or jurisdictional authorities.

4603.4 Rubbish containers. Containers with tight-fitting or self-closing lids shall be provided for the temporary storage of combustible trash or rubbish.

4603.5 Electrical equipment. Electrical equipment shall be installed and used in accordance with its listing and Section 605 as required for wet, damp and hazardous locations.

SECTION 4604 -- FIRE-PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

4604.1 General. Marinas, piers, wharves, floats with facilities for mooring or servicing five or more vessels, and marine motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations shall be equipped with fire-protection equipment in accordance with Section 4604.

4604.2 Standpipes. Marinas shall be equipped throughout with standpipe systems in accordance with NFPA 303.

4604.3 Access and water supply. Piers and wharves shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads and water-supply systems with on-site fire hydrants when required and approved by the fire code official.

4604.4 Portable fire extinguishers. One fire extinguisher for ordinary (moderate) hazard type, shall be provided at each required hose station. Additional fire extinguishers, suitable for the hazards involved, shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Section 906.

4604.5 Communications. A telephone not requiring a coin to operate or other approved, clearly identified means to notify the fire department shall be provided on the site in a location approved by the code official.

SECTION 4605 -- MARINE MOTOR VEHICLE FUEL-DISPENSING STATIONS.

4605.1 Fuel dispensing. Marine motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations shall be in accordance with Chapter 22.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-016, § 51-54-4600, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05.]