One of the newer methods of installing fire alarm devices involve the use of wireless detectors and audio/visual devices. Before considering whether to utilize these devices, a designer of record should verify the local jurisdiction allows these devices to be used. For example, Section 907.6.1 of the 2020 Chicago Building Code allows these devices to [Read More]
New Chicago Fire Alarm Requirements, Part 2
In a previous post, we went over the changes in fire alarm requirements in Chicago educational occupancies. Today we’ll discuss the changes for Group B and M occupancies in Chicago. To start, the Chicago Building Code (CBC) business occupancy designation has changed from Class E to Group B and mercantile occupancies have changed from Class [Read More]
When Do Locked Doors in High Rises Have to Unlock?
High rise suites can take up a large portion of a floor & many times take up the entire floor. These large suites are usually divided in sections that may have electronically secured doors that partition them. Examples would be data server rooms and file rooms, as well as stairwells and suite entrances from the [Read More]
What is the Difference between ADA & Section 504 Requirements?
Everyone knows about ADA requirements. They may not know what the requirements are, but they know there are requirements. However, most designers and installers are unfamiliar with Section 504 requirements. Section 504 refers to a section of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. As the date suggests, it’s actually the precursor to the ADA. This section [Read More]
New Chicago Building Code Fire Alarm Equipment Requirements
In our recent blogs, we discussed some of the the new Chicago Building Code (CBC) requirements that will take effect on August 1, 2020. Let’s now take a look at the effect the new code will have on fire alarm equipment requirements in Chicago. We’ll begin today with E-1 Educational occupancies, which are primarily K-12 [Read More]
New Chicago Building Code Educational Occupancy Fire Alarm Requirements
The fire alarm requirements in Chicago have always been somewhat unique from other large cities and definitely different than the suburban requirements. That’s expected, but the accumulation of requirements via policies, memorandums and rules rather than by municipal code made keeping track of specific requirements difficult. The implementation of the new Title 14B of the [Read More]
New Chicago Construction Code Impact on Fire Alarm Shop Drawings
A brief overview of the new City of Chicago shop drawing requirements.
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