Florida Building Code / General Regulations / Ventilation

General Regulations

SECTION 301 GENERAL

301.1 Scope. This chapter shall govern the approval and installation of all equipment and appliances that comprise parts of the building mechanical systems regulated by this code in accordance with Section 101.2.

301.2 Energy utilization. Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems of all structures shall be designed and installed for efficient utilization of energy in accordance with the Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

301.3 Fuel gas appliances and equipment. The approval and installation of fuel gas distribution piping and equipment, fuel gas-fired appliances and fuel gas-fired appliance venting systems shall be in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Fuel Gas.

301.4 Listed and labeled. All appliances regulated by this code shall be listed and labeled unless otherwise approved in accordance with Sections 301.4.1 through 301.4.4.


301.4.1 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided the code official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the mechanical inspection department.
301.4.2 Alternative materials, methods, equipment and appliances. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material or method of construction shall be approved where the code official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.
301.4.3 Required testing. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods, the code official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction.
301.4.3.1 Test methods. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the code official shall approve the testing procedures.
301.4.3.2 Testing agency. All tests shall be performed by an approved agency.
301.4.3.3 Test reports. Reports of tests shall be retained by the code official for the period required for retention of public records.
301.4.4 Materials, equipment and appliance reuse. Materials, equipment, appliances and devices shall not be reused unless such elements have been reconditioned, tested and placed in good and proper working condition and approved.
301.5 Labeling. Labeling shall be in accordance with the procedures set forth in Sections 301.5.1 through 301.5.2.3.

301.5.1 Testing. An approved agency shall test a representative sample of the mechanical equipment and appliances being labeled to the relevant standard or standards. The approved agency shall maintain a record of all of the tests performed. The record shall provide sufficient detail to verify compliance with the test standard.
301.5.2 Inspection and identification. The approved agency shall periodically perform an inspection, which shall be in-plant if necessary, of the mechanical equipment and appliances to be labeled. The inspection shall verify that the labeled mechanical equipment and appliances are representative of the mechanical equipment and appliances tested.
301.5.2.1 Independent. The agency to be approved shall be objective and competent. To confirm its objectivity, the agency shall disclose all possible conflicts of interest.
301.5.2.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform all required tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.
301.5.2.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in conducting, supervising and evaluating tests.
301.6 Label information. A permanent factory-applied name-plate(s) shall be affixed to appliances on which shall appear in legible lettering, the manufacturer's name or trademark, the model number, serial number and the seal or mark of the approved agency. A label shall also include the following:

1. Electrical equipment and appliances: Electrical rating in volts, amperes and motor phase; identification of individual electrical components in volts, amperes or watts, motor phase; Btu/h (W) output; and required clearances.
2. Absorption units: Hourly rating in Btu/h (W); minimum hourly rating for units having step or automatic modulating controls; type of fuel; type of refrigerant; cooling capacity in Btu/h (W); and required clearances.
3. Fuel-burning units: Hourly rating in Btu/h (W); type of fuel approved for use with the appliance; and required clearances.
4. Electric comfort heating appliances: Name and trade-mark of the manufacturer; the model number or equivalent; the electric rating in volts, ampacity and phase; Btu/h (W) output rating; individual marking for each electrical component in amperes or watts, volts and phase; required clearances from combustibles; and a seal indicating approval of the appliance by an approved agency.
301.7 Electrical. Electrical wiring, controls and connections to equipment and appliances regulated by this code shall be in accordance with Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

301.8 Plumbing connections. Potable water supply and building drainage system connections to equipment and appliances regulated by this code shall be in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Plumbing.

301.9 Fuel types. Fuel-fired appliances shall be designed for use with the type of fuel to which they will be connected and the altitude at which they are installed. Appliances that comprise parts of the building mechanical system shall not be converted for the usage of a different fuel, except where approved and converted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The fuel input rate shall not be increased or decreased beyond the limit rating for the altitude at which the appliance is installed.

301.10 Vibration isolation. Where vibration isolation of equipment and appliances is employed, an approved means of supplemental restraint shall be used to accomplish the support and restraint.

301.11 Repair. Defective material or parts shall be replaced or repaired in such a manner so as to preserve the original approval or listing.

301.12 Wind resistance. Mechanical equipment, appliances and supports that are exposed to wind shall be designed and installed to resist the wind pressures on the equipment and the supports as determined in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building. Roof mounted mechanical units and supports shall be secured to the structure. The use of wood "sleepers" shall not be permitted.

301.13 Floodplain management construction standards. This code specifically defers to the authority granted to local government by Title 44 CFR, Sections 59 and 60. This code is not intended to supplant or supercede local ordinances adopted pursuant to that authority, nor are local floodplain management ordinances to be deemed amendments to the code.

301.13.1 High-velocity wave action. Reserved. [B]
301.14 Rodentproofing. Buildings or structures and the walls enclosing habitable or occupiable rooms and spaces in which persons live, sleep or work, or in which feed, food or foodstuffs are stored, prepared, processed, served or sold, shall be constructed to protect against the entrance of rodents in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building.

301.15 NFPA standards. Unless otherwise specified in this code, air conditioning equipment shall comply with the following standards:

1. NFPA 90A (Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems)
2. NFPA 90B (Standard for the Installation of Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Systems)

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SECTION 302 PROTECTION OF STRUCTURE

302.1 Structural safety. The building or structure shall not be weakened by the installation of mechanical systems. Where floors, walls, ceilings or any other portion of the building or structure are required to be altered or replaced in the process of installing or repairing any system, the building or structure shall be left in a safe structural condition in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building.

302.2 Penetrations of floor/ceiling assemblies and fire-resistance-rated assemblies. Penetrations of floor/ceiling assemblies and assemblies required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be protected in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building.

302.3 Cutting, notching and boring in wood framing. The cutting, notching and boring of wood framing members shall comply with Sections 302.3.1 through 302.3.4. [B]

302.3.1 Joist notching. Notches on the ends of joists shall not exceed one-fourth the joist depth. Holes bored in joists shall not be within 2 inches (51 mm) of the top or bottom of the joist, and the diameter of any such hole shall not exceed one-third the depth of the joist. Notches in the top or bottom of joists shall not exceed one-sixth the depth and shall not be located in the middle third of the span. [B]
302.3.2 Stud cutting and notching. In exterior walls and bearing partitions, any wood stud is permitted to be cut or notched not to exceed 25 percent of its depth. Cutting or notching of studs not greater than 40 percent of their depth is permitted in nonbearing partitions supporting no loads other than the weight of the partition. [B]
302.3.3 Bored holes. A hole not greater in diameter than 40 percent of the stud depth is permitted to be bored in any wood stud. Bored holes not greater than 60 percent of the depth of the stud are permitted in nonbearing partitions or in any wall where each bored stud is doubled, provided not more than two such successive doubled studs are so bored. In no case shall the edge of the bored hole be nearer than 0.625 inch (15.9 mm) to the edge of the stud. Bored holes shall not be located at the same section of stud as a cut or notch. [B]
302.3.4 Engineered wood products. Cuts, notches and holes bored in trusses, structural composite veneer lumber, structural glue-laminated members and I-joists are prohibited except where permitted by the manufacturer's recommendations or where the effects of such alterations are specifically considered in the design of the member. [B]
302.4 Alterations to trusses. Truss members and components shall not be cut, drilled, notched, spliced or otherwise altered in any way without written concurrence and approval of a registered design professional. Alterations resulting in the addition of loads to any member (e.g., HVAC equipment, water heaters) shall not be permitted without verification that the truss is capable of supporting such additional loading. [B]

302.5 Cutting, notching and boring in steel framing. The cutting, notching and boring of steel framing members shall comply with Sections 302.5.1 through 302.5.3. [B]

302.5.1 Cutting, notching and boring holes in structural steel framing. The cutting, notching and boring of holes in structural steel framing members shall be as prescribed by the registered design professional. [B]
302.5.2 Cutting, notching and boring holes in cold-formed steel framing. Flanges and lips of load-bearing cold-formed steel framing members shall not be cut or notched. Holes in webs of load-bearing cold-formed steel framing members shall be permitted along the centerline of the web of the framing member and shall not exceed the dimensional limitations, penetration spacing or minimum hole edge distance as prescribed by the registered design professional. Cutting, notching and boring holes of steel floor/roof decking shall be as prescribed by the registered design professional. [B]
302.5.3 Cutting, notching and boring holes in nonstructural cold-formed steel wall framing. Flanges and lips of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs shall not be cut or notched. Holes in webs of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs shall be permitted along the center-line of the web of the framing member, shall not exceed 1.5 inches (38 mm) in width or 4 inches (102 mm) in length, and shall not be spaced less than 24 inches (610 mm) center to center from another hole or less than 10 inches (254 mm) from the bearing end. [B]

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SECTION 303 EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCE LOCATION

303.1 General. Equipment and appliances shall be located as required by this section, specific requirements elsewhere in this code and the conditions of the equipment and appliance listing.

303.2 Hazardous locations. Appliances shall not be located in a hazardous location unless listed and approved for the specific installation.

303.3 Prohibited locations. Fuel-fired appliances shall not be located in, or obtain combustion air from, any of the following rooms or spaces:

1. Sleeping rooms.
2. Bathrooms.
3. Toilet rooms.
4. Storage closets.
5. Surgical rooms.

Exception: This section shall not apply to the following appliances:
1. Direct-vent appliances that obtain all combustion air directly from the outdoors.
2. Solid fuel-fired appliances, provided that the room is not a confined space and the building is not of unusually tight construction.
3. Appliances installed in a dedicated enclosure in which all combustion air is taken directly from the outdoors, in accordance with Section 703. Access to such enclosure shall be through a solid door, weather-stripped in accordance with the exterior door air leakage requirements of the Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code, Building and equipped with an approved self-closing device.
303.4 Protection from damage. Appliances shall not be installed in a location where subject to mechanical damage unless protected by approved barriers.

303.5 Indoor locations. Fuel-fired furnaces and boilers installed in closets and alcoves shall be listed for such installation. For purposes of this section, a closet or alcove shall be defined as a room or space having a volume less than 12 times the total volume of fuel-fired appliances other than boilers and less than 16 times the total volume of boilers. Room volume shall be computed using the gross floor area and the actual ceiling height up to a maximum computation height of 8 feet (2438 mm).

303.6 Outdoor locations. Appliances installed in other than indoor locations shall be listed and labeled for outdoor installation.

303.7 Pit locations. Appliances installed in pits or excavations shall not come in direct contact with the surrounding soil. The sides of the pit or excavation shall be held back a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) from the appliance. Where the depth exceeds 12 inches (305 mm) below adjoining grade, the walls of the pit or excavation shall be lined with concrete or masonry. Such concrete or masonry shall extend a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above adjoining grade and shall have sufficient lateral load-bearing capacity to resist collapse. The appliance shall be protected from flooding in an approved manner.

303.8 Elevator shafts. Mechanical systems shall not be located in an elevator shaft. [B]


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SECTION 304 INSTALLATION

304.1 General. Equipment and appliances shall be installed as required by the terms of their approval, in accordance with the conditions of the listing, the manufacturer's installation instructions and this code. Manufacturer's installation instructions shall be available on the job site at the time of inspection.

304.2 Conflicts. Where conflicts between this code and the conditions of listing or the manufacturer's installation instructions occur, the provisions of this code shall apply.

Exception: Where a code provision is less restrictive than the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance or the manufacturer's installation instructions, the conditions of the listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions shall apply.

304.3 Elevation of ignition source. Reserved.

304.4 Hydrogen-generating and refueling operations. Ventilation shall be required in accordance with Section 304.4.1, 304.4.2 or 304.4.3 in public garages, private garages, repair garages, automotive service stations and parking garages that contain hydrogen-generating appliances or refueling systems. For the purpose of this section, rooms or spaces that are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit and that communicate directly with a private garage through openings shall be considered to be part of the private garage. [FG]

304.4.1 Natural ventilation. Indoor locations intended for hydrogen-generating or refueling operations shall be limited to a maximum floor area of 850 square feet (79 m2) and shall communicate with the outdoors in accordance with Sections 304.4.1.1 through 304.4.1.2. The maximum rated output capacity of hydrogen generating appliances shall not exceed 4 standard cubic feet per minute (0.00189 m3/s) of hydrogen for each 250 square feet (23.2 m2) of floor area in such spaces. The minimum cross-sectional dimension of air openings shall be 3 inches (76 mm). Where ducts are used, they shall be of the same cross-sectional area as the free area of the openings to which they connect. In such locations, equipment and appliances having an ignition source shall be located such that the source of ignition is not within 12 inches (305 mm) of the ceiling. [FG]
304.4.1.1 Two openings. Two permanent openings shall be provided within the garage. The upper opening shall be located entirely within 12 inches (305 mm) of the ceiling of the garage. The lower opening shall be located entirely within 12 inches (305 mm) of the floor of the garage. Both openings shall be provided in the same exterior wall. The openings shall communicate directly with the outdoors and shall have a minimum free area of 1/2 square foot per 1,000 cubic feet (1 m2/610 m3) of garage volume. [FG]
304.4.1.2 Louvers and grilles. In calculating free area required by Section 304.4.1, the required size of openings shall be based on the net free area of each opening. If the free area through a design of louver or grille is known, it shall be used in calculating the size opening required to provide the free area specified. If the design and free area are not known, it shall be assumed that wood louvers will have 25 percent free area and metal louvers and grilles will have 75 percent free area. Louvers and grilles shall be fixed in the open position. [FG]
304.4.2 Mechanical ventilation. Indoor locations intended for hydrogen-generating or refueling operations shall be ventilated in accordance with Section 502.16. In such locations, equipment and appliances having an ignition source shall be located such that the source of ignition is below the mechanical ventilation outlet(s). [FG]
304.4.3 Specially engineered installations. As an alternative to the provisions of Sections 304.4.1 and 304.4.2 the necessary supply of air for ventilation and dilution of flammable gases shall be provided by an approved engineered system. [FG]
304.5 Public garages. Appliances located in public garages, motor fueling dispensing facilities, repair garages or other areas frequented by motor vehicles, shall be installed a minimum of 8 feet (2438 mm) above the floor. Where motor vehicles exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) in height and are capable of passing under an appliance, appliances shall be installed a minimum of 2 feet (610 mm) higher above the floor than the height of the tallest vehicle.

Exception: The requirements of this section shall not apply where the appliances are protected from motor vehicle impact and installed in accordance with NFPA 30A.

304.6 Private garages. Reserved.

304.7 Construction and protection. Boiler rooms and furnace rooms shall be protected as required by the Florida Building Code, Building.

304.8 Clearances to combustible construction. Heat-producing equipment and appliances shall be installed to maintain the required clearances to combustible construction as specified in the listing and manufacturer's instructions. Such clearances shall be reduced only in accordance with Section 308. Clearances to combustibles shall include such considerations as door swing, drawer pull, overhead projections or shelving and window swing, shutters, coverings and drapes. Devices such as doorstops or limits, closers, drapery ties or guards shall not be used to provide the required clearances.

304.9 Clearances from grade. Equipment and appliances installed at grade level shall be supported on a level minimum 31/2 inch concrete slab or other approved material extending a minimum of 2 inches above adjoining finished grade. Suspended equipment and appliances shall be installed a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) above adjoining grade to provide support and protection from contact with soil or water.

Exception: On changeouts or new installations of existing buildings where equipment is replaced that has a support platform approved under a previous code.

304.10 Guards. Guards shall be provided where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service and roof hatch openings are located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor, roof or grade below. The guard shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond each end of such appliances, equipment, fans, components and roof hatch openings and the top of the guard shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the elevated surface adjacent to the guard. The guard shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards specified in the Florida Building Code, Building. [B]

304.11 Area served. Appliances serving different areas of a building other than where they are installed shall be permanently marked in an approved manner that uniquely identifies the appliance and the area it serves.


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SECTION 305 PIPING SUPPORT

305.1 General. All mechanical system piping shall be supported in accordance with this section.

305.2 Materials. Pipe hangers and supports shall have sufficient strength to withstand all anticipated static and specified dynamic loading conditions associated with the intended use. Pipe hangers and supports that are in direct contact with piping shall be of approved materials that are compatible with the piping and that will not promote galvanic action.

305.3 Structural attachment. Hangers and anchors shall be attached to the building construction in an approved manner.

305.4 Interval of support. Piping shall be supported at distances not exceeding the spacing specified in Table 305.4, or in accordance with MSS SP-69.

TABLE 305.4 PIPING SUPPORT SPACINGa


PIPING MATERIAL
MAXIMUM
HORIZONTAL
SPACING
(feet)
MAXIMUM
VERTICAL
SPACING
(feet)
ABS pipe
4
10c
Aluminum pipe and tubing
10
15
Brass pipe
10
10
Brass tubing, 11/4-inch diameter and smaller
6
10
Brass tubing, 11/2-inch diameter and larger
10
10
Cast-iron pipeb
5
15
Copper or copper-alloy pipe
12
10
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 11/4-inch diameter and smaller
6
10
Copper or copper-alloy tubing, 11/2-inch diameter and larger
10
10
CPVC pipe or tubing, 1 inch
and smaller
3
10c
CPVC pipe or tubing 11/4-inch and larger
4
10c
Lead pipe
Continuous
4
PB pipe or tubing
22/3
(32 inches)
4
PEX tubing
22/3
(32 inches)
10c
PVC pipe
4
10c
Steel tubing
8
10
Steel pipe
12
15


For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

a. See Section 301.15.

b. The maximum horizontal spacing of cast-iron pipe hangers shall be increased to 10 feet where 10-foot lengths of pipe are installed.

c. Mid-story guide.


305.5 Protection against physical damage. In concealed locations where piping, other than cast-iron or steel, is installed through holes or notches in studs, joists, rafters or similar members less than 1.5 inches (38 mm) from the nearest edge of the member, the pipe shall be protected by shield plates. Protective shield plates shall be a minimum of 0.062-inch-thick (1.6 mm) steel, shall cover the area of the pipe where the member is notched or bored, and shall extend a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) above sole plates and below top plates.


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SECTION 306 ACCESS AND SERVICE SPACE

306.1 Clearances for maintenance and replacement. Clearances around appliances to elements of permanent construction, including other installed equipment and appliances, shall be sufficient to allow inspection, service, repair or replacement without removing such elements of permanent construction or disabling the function of a required fire-resistance-rated assembly.

306.1.1 Central furnaces. Central furnaces within compartments or alcoves shall have a minimum working space clearance of 3 inches (76 mm) along the sides, back and top with a total width of the enclosing space being at least 12 inches (305 mm) wider than the furnace. Furnaces having a firebox open to the atmosphere shall have at least 6 inches (152 mm) working space along the front combustion chamber side. Combustion air openings at the rear or side of the compartment shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 7.

Exception: This section shall not apply to replacement appliances installed in existing compartments and alcoves where the working space clearances are in accordance with the equipment or appliance manufacturer's installation instructions.
306.2 Appliances in rooms. Rooms containing appliances requiring access shall be provided with a door and an unobstructed passageway measuring not less than 36 inches (914 mm) wide and 80 inches (2032 mm) high.

Exception: Within a dwelling unit, appliances installed in a compartment, alcove, basement or similar space shall be accessed by an opening or door and an unobstructed passageway measuring not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance in the space, provided that a level service space of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) deep and the height of the appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm), is present at the front or service side of the appliance with the door open.

306.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances requiring access shall be provided with an opening and unobstructed passageway large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance. The passageway shall not be less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide and not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) in length measured along the centerline of the passageway from the attic access opening to the appliance's service panel. The passageway shall have continuous solid flooring not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide. A level service space not less than 30 inches (762 mm) deep and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present at the front or service side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), where such dimensions are large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.

Exception: The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance is capable of being serviced and removed through the required opening.

306.3.1 Electrical requirements. A lighting fixture with receptacle outlet, controlled by a switch located at the passageway opening, shall be provided to light the passageway and service area and installed in accordance with NFPA 70.
306.3.2 Air handling units. Air handling units shall be allowed in attics if the following conditions are met:
1. The service panel of the equipment is located within 6 feet of an attic access.
2. A device is installed to alert the owner or shut the unit down when the condensation drain is not working properly.
3. The attic access opening is of sufficient size to replace the air handler.
4. A notice is posted on the electric service panel indicating to the homeowner that the air handler is located in the attic. Said notice shall be in all capitals, in 16 point type, with the title and first paragraph in bold:


NOTICE TO HOMEOWNER


A PART OF YOUR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM, THE AIR HANDLER, IS LOCATED IN THE ATTIC. FOR PROPER, EFFICIENT AND ECONOMIC OPERATION OF THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM, YOU MUST ENSURE THAT REGULAR MAINTENANCE IS PERFORMED.

YOUR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IS EQUIPPED WITH ONE OR BOTH OF THE FOLLOWING: 1) A DEVICE THAT WILL ALERT YOU WHEN THE CONDENSATION DRAIN IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY OR 2) A DEVICE THAT WILL SHUT THE SYSTEM DOWN WHEN THE CONDENSATION DRAIN IS NOT WORKING. TO LIMIT POTENTIAL DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME, AND TO AVOID DISRUPTION OF SERVICE, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU ENSURE PROPER WORKING ORDER OF THESE DEVICES BEFORE EACH SEASON OF PEAK OPERATION.
306.4 Appliances under floors. Underfloor spaces containing appliances requiring access shall be provided with an access opening and unobstructed passageway large enough to remove the largest appliance. The passageway shall not be less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide, nor more than 20 feet (6096 mm) in length measured along the centerline of the passageway from the opening to the appliance. A level service space not less than 30 inches (762 mm) deep and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present at the front or service side of the appliance. If the depth of the passageway or the service space exceeds 12 inches (305 mm) below the adjoining grade, the walls of the passageway shall be lined with concrete or masonry. Such concrete or masonry shall extend a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above the adjoining grade and shall have sufficient lateral-bearing capacity to resist collapse. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 22 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm), where such dimensions are large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.

Exceptions:

1. The passageway is not required where the level service space is present when the access is open and the appliance is capable of being serviced and removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed and not less than 6 feet high (1929 mm) and 22 inches wide for its entire length, the passageway shall not be limited in length.
306.4.1 Electrical requirements. A luminaire controlled by a switch located at the required passageway opening and a receptacle outlet shall be provided at or near the appliance location in accordance with the Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code, Building.
306.5 Equipment and appliances on roofs or elevated structures. Where equipment and appliances requiring access are installed on roofs or elevated structures at a height exceeding 16 feet (4877 mm), such access shall be provided by a permanent approved means of access, the extent of which shall be from grade or floor level to the equipment and appliances' level service space. Such access shall not require climbing over obstructions greater than 30 inches (762 mm) high or walking on roofs having a slope greater than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope).

Permanent ladders installed to provide the required access shall comply with the following minimum design criteria:

1. The side railing shall extend above the parapet or roof edge not less than 30 inches (762 mm).
2. Ladders shall have rung spacing not to exceed 14 inches (356 mm) on center.
3. Ladders shall have a toe spacing not less than 6 inches (152 mm) deep.
4. There shall be a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) between rails.
5. Rungs shall have a minimum 0.75-inch (19 mm) diameter and be capable of withstanding a 300-pound (136.1 kg) load.
6. Ladders over 30 feet (9144 mm) in height shall be provided with offset sections and landings capable of withstanding 100 pounds (488.2 kg/m2) per square foot.
7. Ladders shall be protected against corrosion by approved means.

Catwalks installed to provide the required access shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide and shall have railings as required for service platforms.

Exception: This section shall not apply to Group R-3 occupancies.

Minimum clearances below roof-mounted mechanical units shall be in accordance with Section 1509.7 and 1522.3 of the Florida Building Code, Building.
306.5.1 Sloped roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service are installed on a roof having a slope of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater and having an edge more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a level platform shall be provided on each side of the appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards specified in the Florida Building Code, Building.
306.5.2 Electrical requirements. A receptacle outlet shall be provided at or near the equipment location in accordance with the Chapter 27 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

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SECTION 307 CONDENSATE DISPOSAL

307.1 Fuel-burning appliances. Liquid combustion by-products of condensing appliances shall be collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture or disposal area in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Condensate piping shall be of approved corrosion-resistant material and shall not be smaller than the drain connection on the appliance. Such piping shall maintain a minimum horizontal slope in the direction of discharge of not less than one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope).

307.2 Evaporators and cooling coils. Condensate drain systems shall be provided for equipment and appliances containing evaporators or cooling coils. Condensate drain systems shall be designed, constructed and installed in accordance with Sections 307.2.1 through 307.2.4.

307.2.1 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils and evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal. Condensate shall not discharge into a street, alley or other areas so as to cause a nuisance.
307.2.2 Drain pipe materials and sizes. Components of the condensate disposal system shall be cast iron, galvanized steel, copper, cross-linked polyethylene, polybutylene, polyethylene, ABS, CPVC or PVC pipe or tubing. All components shall be selected for the pressure and temperature rating of the installation. Condensate waste and drain line size shall be not less than ¾ inch (19 mm) internal diameter and shall not decrease in size from the drain pan connection to the place of condensate disposal. Where the drain pipes from more than one unit are manifolded together for condensate drainage, the pipe or tubing shall be sized in accordance with an approved method. All horizontal sections of drain piping shall be installed in uniform alignment at a uniform slope.

Exception: On wall mounted ductless split units less than 36,001 Btu/h where the drain line is less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in length, the factory drain outlet size shall be acceptable from the equipment to the place of disposal.
307.2.3 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. In addition to the requirements of Section 307.2.1, a secondary drain or auxiliary drain pan shall be required for each cooling or evaporator coil or fuel-fired appliance that produces condensate, where damage to any building components will occur as a result of overflow from the equipment drain pan or stoppage in the condensate drain piping. One of the following methods shall be used:
1. An auxiliary drain pan with a separate drain shall be provided under the coils on which condensation will occur. The auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The pan shall have a minimum depth of 1.5 inches (38 mm), shall not be less than 3 inches (76 mm) larger than the unit or the coil dimensions in width and length and shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant material. Metallic pans shall have a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0276-inch (0.7 mm) galvanized sheet metal. Nonmetallic pans shall have a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0625 inch (1.6 mm).
2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to the drain pan provided with the equipment. Such overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The overflow drain line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level than the primary drain connection. As an alternative to a separate drain line, a water-level detection device that will shut off the equipment served prior to overflow of the pan shall be provided. The water level detection device shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level than the primary drain connection.
3. An auxiliary drain pan without a separate drain line shall be provided under the coils on which condensate will occur. Such pan shall be equipped with a water-level detection device conforming to UL 508 that will shut off the equipment served prior to overflow of the pan. The auxiliary drain pan shall be constructed in accordance with Item 1 of this section.
307.2.3.1 Water-level monitoring devices. On down-flow units and all other coils that do not have a secondary drain and do not have a means to install an auxiliary drain pan, a water-level monitoring device shall be installed inside the primary drain pan. This device shall shut off the equipment served in the event that the primary drain becomes restricted. Externally installed devices and devices installed in the drain line shall not be permitted.
307.2.4 Traps. Condensate drains shall be trapped as required by the equipment or appliance manufacturer.
307.2.5 Pipe insulation. All horizontal primary condensate drains within unconditioned areas shall be insulated to prevent condensation from forming on the exterior of the drain pipe.

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SECTION 308 CLEARANCE REDUCTION

308.1 Scope. This section shall govern the reduction in required clearances to combustible materials and combustible assemblies for chimneys, vents, kitchen exhaust equipment, mechanical appliances, and mechanical devices and equipment.

308.2 Listed appliances and equipment. The reduction of the required clearances to combustibles for listed and labeled appliances and equipment shall be in accordance with the requirements of this section except that such clearances shall not be reduced where reduction is specifically prohibited by the terms of the appliance or equipment listing.

308.3 Protective assembly construction and installation. Reduced clearance protective assemblies, including structural and support elements, shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Spacers utilized to maintain an airspace between the protective assembly and the protected material or assembly shall be noncombustible. Where a space between the protective assembly and protected combustible material or assembly is specified, the same space shall be provided around the edges of the protective assembly and the spacers shall be placed so as to allow air circulation by convection in such space. Protective assemblies shall not be placed less than 1 inch (25 mm) from the mechanical appliances, devices or equipment, regardless of the allowable reduced clearance.

308.4 Allowable reduction. The reduction of required clearances to combustible assemblies or combustible materials shall be based on the utilization of a reduced clearance protective assembly in accordance with Section 308.5 or 308.6.

308.5 Labeled assemblies. The allowable clearance reduction shall be based on an approved reduced clearance protective assembly that has been tested and bears the label of an approved agency.

308.6 Reduction table. The allowable clearance reduction shall be based on one of the methods specified in Table 308.6. Where required clearances are not listed in Table 308.6, the reduced clearances shall be determined by linear interpolation between the distances listed in the table. Reduced clearances shall not be derived by extrapolation below the range of the table.

TABLE 308.6 CLEARANCE REDUCTION METHODS

TYPE OF PROTECTIVE ASSEMBLYa
REDUCED CLEARANCE WITH PROTECTION (inches)a
Horizontal combustible assemblies located above the heat source
Horizontal combustible assemblies located beneath the heat source and all vertical combustible assemblies
Required clearance to combustibles without protection (inches)a
Required clearance to combustibles without protection (inches)a
36
18
9
6
36
18
9
6
Galvanized sheet metal, minimum nominal thickness of 0.024 inch (No. 24 Gage), mounted on 1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool batt reinforced with wire on the back, 1 inch off the combustible assembly
18
9
5
3
12
6
3
3
Galvanized sheet metal, minimum nominal thickness of 0.024 inch (No. 24 Gage), spaced 1 inch off the combustible assembly
18
9
5
3
12
6
3
2
Two layers of galvanized sheet metal, minimum nominal thickness of 0.024 inch (No. 24 Gage), having a 1-inch airspace between layers, spaced 1 inch off the combustible assembly
18
9
5
3
12
6
3
3
Two layers of galvanized sheet metal, minimum nominal thickness of 0.024 inch (No. 24 Gage), having 1 inch of fiberglass insulation between layers, spaced 1 inch off the
combustible assembly
18
9
5
3
12
6
3
3
0.5-inch inorganic insulating board, over 1 inch of fiberglass or mineral wool batt, against the combustible assembly
24
12
6
4
18
9
5
3
3.5-inch brick wall, spaced 1 inch off the combustible wall
-
-
-
-
12
6
6
6
3.5-inch brick wall, against the combustible wall
-
-
-
-
24
12
6
5


For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, ºC = [(ºF)-32]/1.8, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3, 1.0 Btu • in/ft2 • h • ºF = 0.144 W/m2 • K.

a. Mineral wool and glass fiber batts (blanket or board) shall have a minimum density of 8 pounds per cubic foot and a minimum melting point of 1,500ºF. Insulation material utilized as part of a clearance reduction system shall have a thermal conductivity of 1.0 Btu • in./(ft2 • h • ºF) or less. Insulation board shall be formed of noncombustible material.


308.7 Solid fuel-burning appliances. The clearance reduction methods specified in Table 308.6 shall not be utilized to reduce the clearance required for solid fuel-burning appliances that are labeled for installation with clearances of 12 inches (305 mm) or less. Where appliances are labeled for installation with clearances of greater than 12 inches (305 mm), the clearance reduction methods of Table 308.6 shall not reduce the clearance to less than 12 inches (305 mm).

308.8 Masonry chimneys. The clearance reduction methods specified in Table 308.6 shall not be utilized to reduce the clearances required for masonry chimneys as specified in Chapter 8 and the Florida Building Code, Building.

308.9 Chimney connector pass-throughs. The clearance reduction methods specified in Table 308.6 shall not be utilized to reduce the clearances required for chimney connector pass-throughs as specified in Section 803.10.4.

308.10 Masonry fireplaces. The clearance reduction methods specified in Table 308.6 shall not be utilized to reduce the clearances required for masonry fireplaces as specified in Chapter 8 and the Florida Building Code, Building.

308.11 Kitchen exhaust ducts. The clearance reduction methods specified in Table 308.6 shall not be utilized to reduce the minimum clearances required by Section 506.3.10 for kitchen exhaust ducts enclosed in a shaft.


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SECTION 309 TEMPERATURE CONTROL [B]

309.1 Space-heating systems. Interior spaces intended for human occupancy shall be provided with active or passive space-heating systems capable of maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 68°F (20°C) at a point 3 feet (914 mm) above floor on the design heating day. The installation of portable space heaters shall not be used to achieve compliance with this section. [B]

Exception: Interior spaces where the primary purpose is not associated with human comfort.


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SECTION 310 EXPLOSION CONTROL [F]

310.1 Required. Structures occupied for purposes involving explosion hazards shall be provided with explosion control where required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code. Explosion control systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code. [F]


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SECTION 311 SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS [F]

311.1 Required. Approved smoke and heat vents shall be installed in the roofs of one-story buildings where required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code. Smoke and heat vents shall be designed and installed in accordance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code. [F]


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SECTION 312 HEATING AND COOLING LOAD CALCULATIONS

312.1 Load calculations. Heating and cooling system design loads for the purpose of sizing systems, appliances and equipment shall be determined in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 13 of the Florida Building Code, Building:

Commercial: Section 13-407.ABC.1

Residential: Section 13-607.ABC.1

Ventilation

SECTION 401 GENERAL

401.1 Scope. This chapter shall govern the ventilation of spaces within a building intended to be occupied. This chapter does not govern the requirements for smoke control systems.

401.2 Ventilation required. Every occupied space shall be ventilated by natural means in accordance with Section 402 or by mechanical means in accordance with Section 403.

401.3 When required. Ventilation shall be provided during the periods that the room or space is occupied.

401.4 Opening location. Outdoor air exhaust and intake openings shall be located a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from lot lines or buildings on the same lot. Where openings front on a street or public way, the distance shall be measured to the centerline of the street or public way.

Exceptions:


1. Group R-3.
2. Exhaust outlets for environmental air exhaust openings shall be located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from property lines and not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from openings into the building.
401.4.1 Intake openings. Mechanical and gravity outdoor air intake openings shall be located a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from any hazardous or noxious contaminant source, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and loading docks, except as otherwise specified in this code. Fresh air intakes shall not be located closer than10 feet (3048 mm) from any chimney or vent outlet, or sanitary sewer vent outlet.

The exhaust from a bathroom or kitchen in a residential dwelling shall not be considered to be a hazardous or noxious contaminant.
401.4.2 Exhaust openings. Outdoor exhaust openings shall be located so as not to create a nuisance. Exhaust air shall not be directed onto walkways.
401.4.3 Flood hazard. See Section 301.13. [B]
401.5 Outdoor opening protection. Air exhaust and intake openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with corrosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles. Openings in louvers, grilles and screens shall be sized in accordance with Table 401.5, and shall be protected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air exhaust and intake openings located in exterior walls shall meet the provisions for exterior wall opening protectives in accordance with the Florida Building Code, Building.

TABLE 401.5 OPENING SIZES IN LOUVERS, GRILLES AND SCREENS PROTECTING OUTDOOR EXHAUST AND AIR INTAKE OPENINGS

OUTDOOR OPENING TYPE
MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM OPENING SIZES IN LOUVERS, GRILLES AND SCREENS MEASURED IN ANY DIRECTION
Exhaust openings
Not < 1/4 inch and not > 1/2 inch
Intake openings in residential occupancies
Not < 1/4 inch and not > 1/2 inch
Intake openings in other than residential occupancies
> 1/4 inch and not > 1 inch


For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.


401.6 Contaminant sources. Stationary local sources producing air-borne particulates, heat, odors, fumes, spray, vapors, smoke or gases in such quantities as to be irritating or injurious to health shall be provided with an exhaust system in accordance with Chapter 5 or a means of collection and removal of the contaminants. Such exhaust shall discharge directly to an approved location at the exterior of the building.


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SECTION 402 NATURAL VENTILATION [B]

402.1 Natural ventilation. Natural ventilation of an occupied space shall be through windows, doors, louvers or other openings to the outdoors. The operating mechanism for such openings shall be provided with ready access so that the openings are readily controllable by the building occupants.

402.2 Ventilation area required. The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated.

402.3 Adjoining spaces. Where rooms and spaces without openings to the outdoors are ventilated through an adjoining room, the opening to the adjoining rooms shall be unobstructed and shall have an area not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior room or space, but not less than 25 square feet (2.3 m2). The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be based on the total floor area being ventilated.

Exception: Exterior openings required for ventilation shall be permitted to open into a thermally isolated sunroom addition or patio cover, provided that the openable area between the sunroom addition or patio cover and the interior room has an area of not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior room or space, but not less than 20 square feet (1.86 m2). The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be based on the total floor area being ventilated.

402.3.1 Bathrooms. Rooms containing bathtubs, showers, spas and similar bathing fixtures shall be mechanically ventilated in accordance with Section 403.

Exception: Residential bathrooms with windows having no less than 3 square feet of open space.
402.4 Openings below grade. Where openings below grade provide required natural ventilation, the outside horizontal clear space measured perpendicular to the opening shall be one and one-half times the depth of the opening. The depth of the opening shall be measured from the average adjoining ground level to the bottom of the opening.


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SECTION 403 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

403.1 Ventilation system. Mechanical ventilation shall be provided by a method of supply air and return or exhaust air. The amount of supply air shall be approximately equal to the amount of return and exhaust air. The system shall not be prohibited from producing negative or positive pressure. The system to convey ventilation air shall be designed and installed in accordance with Chapter 6. See also Section 13-409.AB.2 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

Ventilation supply systems shall be designed to deliver the required rate of supply air to the occupied zone within an occupied space. The occupied zone shall have boundaries measured at 3 inches (76 mm) and 72 inches (1829 mm) above the floor and 24 inches (610 mm) from the enclosing walls.

403.2 Outdoor air required. The minimum ventilation rate of outdoor air shall be determined in accordance with Section 403.3.

Exception: Where the registered design professional demonstrates that an engineered ventilation system design will prevent the maximum concentration of contaminants from exceeding that obtainable by the rate of outdoor air ventilation determined in accordance with Section 403.3, the minimum required rate of outdoor air shall be reduced in accordance with such engineered system design.

403.2.1 Recirculation of air. The air required by Section 403.3 shall not be recirculated. Air in excess of that required by Section 403.3 shall not be prohibited from being recirculated as a component of supply air to building spaces, except that:
1. Ventilation air shall not be recirculated from one dwelling to another or to dissimilar occupancies.
2. Supply air to a swimming pool and associated deck areas shall not be recirculated unless such air is dehumidified to maintain the relative humidity of the area at 60 percent or less. Air from this area shall not be recirculated to other spaces where 10 percent or more of the resulting supply airstream consists of air recirculated from these spaces.
3. Where mechanical exhaust is required by Note b in Table 403.3, recirculation of air from such spaces shall be prohibited. All air supplied to such spaces shall be exhausted, including any air in excess of that required by Table 403.3.
4. Where mechanical exhaust is required by Note h in Table 403.3, mechanical exhaust is required and recirculation is prohibited where 10 percent or more of the resulting supply airstream consists of air recirculated from these spaces.
403.2.2 Transfer air. Except where recirculation from such spaces is prohibited by Table 403.3, air transferred from occupied spaces is not prohibited from serving as makeup air for required exhaust systems in such spaces as kitchens, baths, toilet rooms, elevators and smoking lounges. The amount of transfer air and exhaust air shall be sufficient to provide the flow rates as specified in Sections 403.3 and 403.3.1. The required outdoor air rates specified in Table 403.3 shall be introduced directly into such spaces or into the occupied spaces from which air is transferred or a combination of both.
403.3 Ventilation rate. Ventilation systems for other than Group R-3 (one- and two-family dwellings), shall be designed to have the capacity to supply the minimum outdoor airflow rate determined in accordance with Table 403.3 based on the occupancy of the space and the occupant load or other parameter as stated therein. The occupant load utilized for design of the ventilation system shall not be less than the number determined from the estimated maximum occupant load rate indicated in Table 403.3. Ventilation rates for occupancies not represented in Table 403.3 shall be determined by an approved engineering analysis. The ventilation system shall be designed to supply the required rate of ventilation air continuously during the period the building is occupied, except as otherwise stated in other provisions of the code.

TABLE 403.3 REQUIRED OUTDOOR VENTILATION AIR


OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATION
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD, PERSONS PER 1,000 SQUARE FEETa
OUTDOOR AIR [Cubic feet per minute (cfm) per person] UNLESS NOTEDe
Correctional facilities
Cells
without plumbing fixtures
with plumbing fixturesg, h
Dining halls
Guard stations


20
20
100
40


20
20
15
15
Dry cleaners, laundries
Coin-operated dry cleaner
Coin-operated laundries
Commercial dry cleaner
Commercial laundry
Storage, pick up

20
20
30
10
30

15
15
30
25
35
Education
Auditoriums
Classrooms
Corridors
Laboratories
Libraries
Locker roomsh
Music rooms
Smoking loungesb,g
Training shops

150
50
-
30
20
-
50
70
30

15
15
0.10 cfm/ft2
20
15
0.50 cfm/ft2
15
60
20
Food and beverage service
Bars, cocktail lounges
Cafeteria, fast food
Dining rooms
Kitchens (cooking)f,g

100
100
70
20

30
20
20
15
Hospitals, nursing and
convalescent homes
Autopsy roomsb
Medical procedure rooms
Operating rooms
Patient rooms
Physical therapy
Recovery and ICU


-
20
20
10
20
20


0.50 cfm/ft2
15
30
25
15
15
Hotels, motels, resorts and
dormitories
Assembly rooms
Bathroomsg, h
Bedrooms
Conference rooms
Dormitory sleeping areas
Gambling casinos
Living rooms
Lobbies

120
-
-
50
20
120
-
30

15
35
30 cfm per room
20
15
30
30 cfm per room
15
Offices
Conference rooms
Office spaces
Reception areas
Telecommunication centers
and data entry

50
7
60

60

20
20
15

20


(continued)


TABLE 403.3-continued REQUIRED OUTDOOR VENTILATION AIR

OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATION
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD, PERSONS PER 1,000 SQUARE FEETa
OUTDOOR AIR (Cubic feet per minute (cfm)
per person)
UNLESS NOTEDe
Private dwellings, single and multiple
Garages, common for
multiple unitsb
-

1.5 cfm/ft2
Garages, separate for
each dwelling
-

100 cfm per car
Kitchensg


-


100 cfm intermittent or 25 cfm continuous
Living areasc





Based upon number of bedrooms. first bedroom: 2; each additional bedroom: 1
0.35 air changes per houra or 15 cfm per person, whichever is greater
Toilet rooms and
bathroomsg, h



-




Mechanical exhaust capacity of 50 cfm intermittent or 20 cfm continuous
Public spaces
Corridors and utilities
Elevator carg
Locker roomsh
Shower rooms
(per shower head)g,h

Smoking loungesb,g
Toilet roomsg,h


-
-




70



0.05 cfm/ft2
1.00 cfm/ft2
0.5 cfm/ft2
50 cfm
intermittent or 20
cfm continuous
60
50cfm per water
closet or urinal
Retail stores, sales floors and
showroom floors
Basement and street
Dressing rooms
Malls and arcades
Shipping and receiving
Smoking loungesb
Storage rooms
Upper floors
Warehouses


-
-
-
-
70
-
-
-

0.30 cfm/ft2
0.20 cfm/ft2
0.20 cfm/ft2
0.15 cfm/ft2
60
0.15 cfm/ft2
0.20 cfm/ft2
0.05 cfm/ft2
Specialty shops
Automotive motor- fuel-dispensing stations
Barber
Beauty
Clothiers, furniture
Embalming roomb
Florists
Hardware, drugs, fabrics




-
25
25
-

8
8


1.5 cfm/ft2
15
25
0.30 cfm/ft2
2.0 cfm/ft2
15
15



(continued)


TABLE 403.3-continued REQUIRED OUTDOOR VENTILATION AIR

OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATION
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM OCCUPANT LOAD, PERSONS PER 1,000 SQUARE FEETa
OUTDOOR AIR (Cubic feet per minute (cfm)
per person)
UNLESS NOTEDe
Specialty shops-continued


Nail salonb, i
-
50 cfm intermittent or 20 cfm continuous per station
Pet Shops
-
1.00 cfm/ft2
Reducing salons
20
15
Supermarkets
8
15
Sports and amusement
Ballrooms and discos
Bowling alleys (seating areas)
Game rooms
Ice arenas
Playing floors (gymnasiums)
Spectator areas
Swimming pools (pool and deck
area)

100
70
70
-
30
150

-

25
25
25
0.50 cfm/ft2
20
15

0.50 cfm/ft2
Storage
Repair garages, enclosed
parking garagesd
Warehouses

-
-

1.5 cfm/ft2
0.05 cfm/ft2
Theaters
Auditoriums
Lobbies
Stages, studios
Ticket booths

150
150
70
60

15
20
15
20
Transportation
Platforms
Vehicles
Waiting rooms

100
150
100

15
15
15
Workrooms
Bank vaults
Darkrooms
Duplicating, printing
Meat processingc
Pharmacy
Photo studios

5
-
-
10
20
10

15
0.50 cfm/ft2
0.50 cfm/ft2
15
15
15


For SI: 1 cubic foot per minute = 0.0004719m3/s, 1 ton = 908 kg,

1 cubic foot per minute per square foot = 0.00508m3/(s m2), ºC = [(ºF) -32]/1.8, 1 square foot = 0.0929m2.

a. Based upon net floor area.

b. Mechanical exhaust required and the recirculation of air from such spaces as permitted by Section 403.2.1 is prohibited (see Section 403.2.1, Items 1 and 3).

c. Spaces unheated or maintained below 50ºF are not covered by these requirements unless the occupancy is continuous.

d. Ventilation systems in enclosed parking garages shall comply with Section 404.

e. Where the ventilation rate is expressed in cfm/ft2, such rate is based upon cubic feet per minute per square foot of the floor area being ventilated.

f. The sum of the outdoor and transfer air from adjacent spaces shall be sufficient to provide an exhaust rate of not less than 1.5 cfm/ft2.

g. Transfer air permitted in accordance with Section 403.2.2.

h. Mechanical exhaust is required and recirculation is prohibited except that recirculation shall be permitted where the resulting supply air stream consists of not more than 10 percent air recirculated from these spaces (see Section 403.2.1, Items 2 and 4).

i. The required exhaust system shall capture the contaminants and odors at their source.


Exception: The occupant load is not required to be determined, based on the estimated maximum occupant load rate indicated in Table 403.3 where approved statistical data document the accuracy of an alternate anticipated occupant density.

403.3.1 System operation. The minimum flow rate of outdoor air that the ventilation system must be capable of supplying during its operation shall be permitted to be based on the rate per person indicated in Table 403.3 and the actual number of occupants present.
403.3.2 Common ventilation system. Where spaces having different ventilation rate requirements are served by a common ventilation system, the ratio of outdoor air to total supply air for the system shall be determined based on the space having the largest outdoor air requirement or shall be determined in accordance with the following formula:

(Equation 4-1)


where

Y = Vot/Vst = Corrected fraction of outdoor air in system supply.
X = Von/Vst = Uncorrected fraction of outdoor air in system supply.
Z = Voc /Vsc = Fraction of outdoor air in critical space. The critical space is that space with the greatest required fraction of outdoor air in the supply to this space.
Vot = Corrected total outdoor airflow rate.
Vst = Total supply flow rate, i.e., the sum of all supply for all branches of the system.
Von = Sum of outdoor airflow rates for all branches on system.
Voc = Outdoor airflow rate required in critical spaces.
Vsc = Supply flow rate in critical space.
403.3.3 Variable air volume system control. Variable air volume air distribution systems, other than those designed to supply only 100-percent outdoor air, shall be provided with controls to regulate the flow of outdoor air. Such control system shall be designed to maintain the flow of outdoor air at a rate of not less than that required by Section 403 over the entire range of supply air operating rates.
403.3.4 Balancing. Ventilation systems shall be balanced by an approved method. Such balancing shall verify that the ventilation system is capable of supplying the airflow rates required by Section 403.
403.4 ASHRAE 62 Alternative. In lieu of compliance with Section 403.1 through Section 403.3, mechanical ventilation may be implemented in compliance with ASHRAE 62 including approved addenda


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SECTION 404 ENCLOSED PARKING GARAGES

404.1 Enclosed parking garages. Mechanical ventilation systems for enclosed parking garages are not required to operate continuously where the system is arranged to operate automatically upon detection of a concentration of carbon monoxide of 25 parts per million (ppm) by approved automatic detection devices. See definition of "Open parking garage" in Section 202 of the Florida Building Code, Building.

404.2 Minimum ventilation. Automatic operation of the system shall not reduce the ventilation rate below 0.05 cfm per square foot (0.00025 m3/s • m2) of the floor area and the system shall be capable of producing a ventilation rate of 1.5 cfm per square foot (0.0076 m3/s • m2) of floor area.

404.3 Occupied spaces accessory to public garages. Connecting offices, waiting rooms, ticket booths and similar uses that are accessory to a public garage shall be maintained at a positive pressure and shall be provided with ventilation in accordance with Section 403.3.


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SECTION 405 SYSTEMS CONTROL

405.1 General. Mechanical ventilation systems shall be provided with manual or automatic controls that will operate such systems whenever the spaces are occupied. Air-conditioning systems that supply required ventilation air shall be provided with controls designed to automatically maintain the required outdoor air supply rate during occupancy.


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SECTION 406 RESERVED


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SECTION 407 RETURN AIR INTAKE

407.1 General. It shall be prohibited to place a return air intake in the following locations: public bathrooms and nondedicated kitchen HVAC systems.