Interpretation #6729
Published May 12, 2011
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2007
- Code
- MECHANIC
- Code Description
- Mechanical
- Chapter
- 4
- Section
- 401.4.1
- Topic
- Outdoor Air Intakes
Question
Is it the intent of 401.4.1 that mechanical and gravity out door air intake openings shall be located 10 feet horizontally from any hazardous or noxious contaminate source such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and loading docks, except as otherwise specified in this code.
Answer Published 05/12/2011 at 9:53 AM
The FBC-Mechanical does not directly apply to a 1 & 2
family dwellings. Refer to the FBC-Residential Section
R303.4.1. But since Generators are NOT specifically covered
by the FBC-Residential, M1301.1 refers you to FBC-
Mechanical. FBC-Mechanical section 915 refers you to NFPA-
37. NFPA-37 has specific requirements for clearances from
openings and combustible construction for "The installation
of liquid-fueled stationary internal combustion engines".
family dwellings. Refer to the FBC-Residential Section
R303.4.1. But since Generators are NOT specifically covered
by the FBC-Residential, M1301.1 refers you to FBC-
Mechanical. FBC-Mechanical section 915 refers you to NFPA-
37. NFPA-37 has specific requirements for clearances from
openings and combustible construction for "The installation
of liquid-fueled stationary internal combustion engines".
Commentary
In accordance with M1307.1 "Installation of appliances
shall conform to the conditions of their listing and label
and the manufacturer's installation instructions." The
generator manufacturer will have instructions stating the
required clearances to building "openings". The stricter of
the two (Manufacturer or NFPA-37) will determine the
clearance requirements.