IMC Occupancy Classification Art Classroom

[IanVG]

Hey all! Working on a renovation to combine two existing spaces (Photo Advanced Classroom and Photo Alt Process were the original room names) in an higher education (university) art building. Based on IMC Table 403.3.1.1 Minimum Ventilation Rates for an Art Classroom, exhaust is required at a minimum of 0.7 CFM/FT². There is no existing exhaust in the space (building was built in 2006), but there is nearby building exhaust that I could tap into... but it may be difficult to find space for the ductwork and associated motorized dampers to accommodate the somewhat unusual switchover (from return air to exhaust air) sequence that other art classrooms in the building utilize, and that I would like to match for my renovation.

Without getting too much in the weeds: what exactly constitutes an "Art Classroom" that the IMC calls out? The college is calling the new space something like "Advanced Visual Instruction Room" or something like that, but two brain cells are telling me that's art-speak for Art Classroom. In general, do specific activities define what an art classroom is and isn't? Like if I know they are just cutting and pasting paper vs sculpture only vs oil painting vs other art mediums, could I potentially treat the space as a regular classroom? I suppose I am most concerned about off-gassing from paints and any solvents used to clean brushes and water-down/thin paints. Or there other common pollutants that I should be aware while designing the exhaust of an art classroom?

I haven't designed HVAC for an Art Classroom, so I'd appreciate any tips or guidance on things to look out for. Thanks!

Side-note: I didn't know IMC supported links directly to their tables - cool! In addition, I found a tangentially related architecturally-focused forum discussion on the Occupancy Classification of an Art Classroom. The thread mentions that depending on if the room occasionally hosts art shows or exhibitions, then it should be treated as an assembly type (IBC) space.

 

[MintJulep]

A visit to the local art supply store would give you a good idea of the types of things used, and product and manufacturer names if you want to look up Safety Data Sheets.

You might also want to have a chat with whoever is handling the plumbing. They might be (or should be) thinking about "what chemicals are going to get poured down the sink drain?"

Then, a letter to your customer stating "I'm designing the HVAC in this room to accommodate the following: ....."

Be expansive. You might or might not get an answer.

 

[HVAC-Novice]

If they use anything with VOC (oil paint, glue etc.)... that is why there is an exhaust requirement. If you are the designer stamping this, you should design it for that.