Based on Informal Interpretation Report Number 7993, are Business occupancies also considered Habitable spaces? Or are they considered Occupied spaces, per the Definitions in Chapter 2. The below exception would appear to allow doors that meet the design pressures, but not tested for water infiltration, to be used in a commercial environment, without requiring any additional provisions.
1709.5.1, exception 1. Door assemblies installed in nonhabitable areas where the door assembly and area are designed to accept water infiltration need not be tested for water infiltration.
HABITABLE SPACE. A space in a building for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, closets, halls, screen enclosures, sunroom Categories I, II, III and IV as defined in Section 2002.6, storage or utility spaces and similar areas are not considered habitable spaces.
OCCUPIABLE SPACE. A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in which individuals congregate for amusement, educational or similar purposes or in which occupants are engaged at labor, and which is equipped with means of egress and light and ventilation facilities meeting the requirements of this code.
Interpretation #8334
Published November 12, 2019
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2017
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Chapter 17- Special Inspection and Tests
- Section
- 1709.5.1 exception #1
- Topic
- Location of Non-Habitable Spaces
Question
Answer Published 11/12/2019 at 12:44 PM
No, they are not considered habitable spaces as defined by the code. They are occupiable spaces. The Exception cited applies to non-habitable spaces and is not applicable to occupiable spaces. Note the Exception requires the door assembly and the area to be designed to accept water infiltration.
Commentary
This interpretation provides guidance and correction to the previously issued interpretation and should be considered as the current view.