Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
(OP)
Hello, I have a question regarding smoke management. I have an 11 story medical offices building with a big atrium right in the middle. The original mechanical plans date from 1980 and had a smoke control system that was never installed. The building executive board wants to install the system now. The original system does not comply with today's codes in terms of required cfms. My question is, since the board is installing these fans mostly for peace of mind since tha AHJ is not requiring it and the building is not being renovated, can they install the fans as per the 1980's plans or does this qualifies as a level 2 alteration according to the IEBC and a new design (or at least the Chapter 13 Compliance Method) must be performed? Thanks for any light you can shed on this issue.





RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
I am assuming you are a contractor based on the wording of your question. I would say anything new must be inspected and permitted. I am almost certain an AHJ would not allow a 30 year old design to be used.. If i were you i wouldn't proceed until I had 1) letter from AHJ saying they agree that the original plans may be used even though this does not conform to modern standards. And 2) a signed statement from the building owner stating they are aware that the original design is based on old standards and that building to these would not meet modern versions of similar standards, etc and they accept all risk etc etc (lawyer it up).
If you are an engineering firm just explain why this is a bad idea and offer to redesign to current applicable codes and standards.
As in all situations ask yourself how a jury of housewives and the like would view things if there were to be a death; Not too favorably on using a 30 yr old design drawing.
Real world knowledge doesn't fall out of the sky on a parachute, but rather is gained in small increments during moments of panic or curiosity.
RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
6 ACH in atrium is what is prescribed. And I'll bet the building is partially sprinklered.
Good luck with that.
RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
I'm not the contractor, I'm just trying to convince the executive board (to deaf ears I might add) that they HAVE to update the smoke control design.
RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings
And let the ahj tell you and the CEO what will be required
RE: Smoke Control in Existing Buildings