2009 IBC® Q&A: Nonstructural Provisions

This publication provides more than 400 answers to the most commonly asked questions that arise in the application of the nonstructural chapters of the 2009 International Building Code® (IBC®). Covering material from Chapters 3 through 11 as well as 14, 15, 24, 29, 30, 34 and others, the guide also includes numerous helpful photographs and illustrations that provide a clear understanding of both the intent and meaning of the code text.

New to the 2009 edition are questions related to open malls, ambulatory health care centers, revisions to the high-rise requirements and provisions dealing with Chapter 34 and existing buildings. 266 pp.

Some of the questions covered are:

• What is the occupancy of a dance studio for 15 children between ages 5 and 15?
• If I build a control area, can I have hazardous materials outside of the control area?
• If a fire wall is also a bearing wall, is structural stability compromised if it supports floor framing members?
• Do I have to use atrium standards every time I open large openings between two stories?
• Is a ceiling radiation damper required for bathroom fan that penetrates a rated ceiling?
• In a mixed occupancy building can the sprinkler system be limited to the Group R fire area?
• Is a four-story building required to have a standby powered elevator as a required accessible means of egress?
• What is the relationship between common path of travel and travel distance limitations?
• Are Type A and Type B dwelling and sleeping units just subcategories of Accessible Units?
• Do the sinks provided in an employees' break room have to be accessible?
• What code section tells me when I need an elevator in a building?
• Has the use of wired glass been prohibited?

The 2009 IBC® Q&A: Nonstructural Provisions is an essential resource for anyone involved with the IBC® nonstructural provisions, including building officials, building inspectors, plans examiners, architects, designers and builders. The guide addresses those code provisions frequently encountered during design, plan review and the construction process.