Interpretation #7391

Original Request

Code Version: 2010
Code: BUILDING
Code Description: Building
Chapter: 5
Section: Table 508.4 & 709.1 Ex 4
Topic: Fire rated separation

Question

1. Is it the intent of code section Table 508.4 to require a fire rated separation of occupancies (including the tenant wall) in hours as noted in Table 508.4 for buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system or does Section 709.1, exception 4, delete the requirement of table 508.4 for a rated fire partition? 2. Refering to Table 508.4 & Section 709.1, exception 4, is it the intent of this code section to require the separation of occupancies (including the tenant wall) in hours as noted in this table for buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system or does Section 709.1, exception 4, delete the requirements of table 508.4 for a rated fire partition?

Answer Published 09/02/2014 at 11:24 AM

No

Commentary

Table 508.4 stands alone and indicates how to handle incidental accessory occupancies. Section 709.1 discusses where fire partitions are required. The most restrictive requirement of either would apply. Neither section supersedes or deletes the requirements of the other. Do not confuse occupancy separation (when using the Separated Method of Mixed Use) with tenant separation.