A Guide to Smoke Control in the 2006 IBC

ISBN: 978-1-58001-659-9
Cover Design: Duane Acoba
Cover Art Director: Dianna Hallmark
Publications Manager: Mary Lou Luif
Illustrator/Interior Design: Dr. Klote
Manager of Development: Beth Tubbs
COPYRIGHT 2007
INTERNATIONAL
CODE COUNCir'
"Cover photo courtesy of The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas"
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This publication is a copyrighted work owned by the International Code Council. Without advance
written permission from the copyright owner, no part of this book may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by
any means, including, without limitation, electronic, optical or mechanical means (by way of example and not limitation, photo-
copying, or recording by or in an information storage and retrieval system). For information on permission to copy material exceed-
ing fair use, please contact: ICC Publications, 4051 W. Flossmoor Rd, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, Phone 888-ICC-SAFE
(422-7233).
The information contained in this document is believed to be accurate; however, it is being provided for informational purposes only
and is intended for use only as a guide. Publication of this document by the ICC should not be construed as the ICC engaging in or
rendering engineering, legal or other professional services. Use of the information contained in this workbook should not be consid-
ered by the user as a substitute for the advice of a registered professional engineer, attorney or other professional. If such advice is
required, it should be sought through the services of a registered professional engineer, licensed attorney or other professional.
Trademarks: "International Code Council" and the "ICC" logo are trademarks of International Code Council, Inc.
First Printing: December 2007
Printed in the United States of America
'
31
Chapter 3
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS
This chapter provides guidance regarding code-required separations that are
expected to serve as passive smoke barriers. The way to think about required smoke
barriers is whether the code intends to prevent smoke o ~ g i n t i n g in one
area/space from migrating across a specific building element: There are many
passive barriers that may be used to delineate smoke zones. Keep in mind that a
fire-rated assembly does not assure the assembly is constructed to restrict smoke
migration. SeveraliBC sections address fire-resistance-rated separations that are also
intended to act as smoke barriers (see Figure 3. 1 ).
Designating smoke zones/smoke barriers is a coordinated effort between the
appropriate design team members. This may include the architect, mechanical
engineer and fire protection engi neer. Smoke zones must also be coordinated with fire
alarm initi ating devices that activate mechanical smoke control systems. This can
include not only smoke detectors, but also water flow indicators for automatic
sprinkler systems. Smoke zones should be shown on the architectural, mechanical,
fire alarm and automatic sprinkler drawings, as well as control diagrams where
applicable.
Smoke barrier construction is required to meet the provisions outlined in Section
709 and associated referenced sections:
SECTION 709 SMOKE BARRIERS
709.1 General Smoke barriers shall comply with this section.
709.2 Materials. Smoke barriers shall be of materials permitted by the
building type of construction.
709.3 Fire-resistance rating. A ! -hour fire-resistance rating is required
fur smoke barriers.
Exception: Smoke barriers constructed of minimum 0. 10-inch-thick (2.5 rom)
steel in Group 1-3 buildings.
One-hour fire-resistance ratings are one of the least fire-resistive wall and
floor/roof-ceiling assemblies available (opening protectives are available that have
lower fire-protection ratings).
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
'
3-2 CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Figure 3.1
Code-mandated
smoke barriers
Grade
Level
\
R-1 floor with pass
doors
/
(f)'
/
"'-
/
'
/
......
@
/I
<V A
'J

Office floor
r-- s bl ym os:
<D Fire Walls
<6) Corridors in R-1
Occupancies
@ Elevator lobbies open in
onto corridors
@ Exit passageways
Floors
@ Horizontal exits
(f) Stairs with or without
vestibules
<D

I
Section A-A of high-rise tower with low-rise expansion
Not Shown: Subject to interpretation:
Areas of refuge Atria walls
1-1 and 1-2 occupancies Mall/tenant interface
Occupancy separati ons Resi dential rooms/suites
Proscenium walls/openings
Shafts
Smoke barriers (designated)
A
M
M
<D
and/or
B @
Ground floor plan view
ZK071
g
A GUI DE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS 3-3
The effect of automatic spri nklers can also be considered to determine if a I -hour
rating is really necessary. Section 909.9.4 all ows the fire to be considered steady state
when automatic sprinklers have activated. It may also be that the fire is fuel-limited.
Section 909 is not intended to be used when uncontrolled fires can be expected. In any
case, it is the design team's responsibility to determine if automatic sprinklers have
activated and performed their expected function or if the fire is fuel -limited. This
analysis can demonstrate how big the fire is. where it is and how much heat is being
generated. The point here is that a 1-hour rating may not be necessary to fulfill
proper functioning of the smoke control system. Even a glass wall will restri ct
smoke migration and may be a reasonable smoke barrier if it can be expected to remain
in place for a sufficient duration (20 minutes per Section 909.4.6). Section 709.3
specificall y mandates !-hour smoke barriers, but the code also grants the designers
and AHJ the option of consideri ng alternate methods and materials on a case-by-case
basis. If the designers wi sh to propose an equivalency for the fire-resistance rating of a
smoke barrier, it is recommended that they conduct preliminary discussions with the
AHJ as early as possible.
709.4 Continuity. Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane
continuous from outside wall to outside wall and from the top of the
foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or
roof sheeting, deck or slab above, including continuity through concealed
spaces, such as those found above suspended ceilings, and including
interstitial structural and mechanical spaces. The supporting
construction shall be protected TO afford the required .fire-resistance
rating of the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type liB,
/JIB or VB construction.
Exception: Smoke barrier walls are not required in inTerstitial spaces where
such spaces are designed and consTructed with ceilings that provide resis-
tance to the passage of fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the
smoke barrier walls.
Whether specified or not, most of these requirements are obvious necessities for
proper performance of any method for reducing smoke migration. One significant
impact is that smoke barriers are required to be continuous from exterior wall to
exterior wall. Although required for specific occupancy classifications and horizontal
exits, this constraint was not specifically mandated by either the 1994 or the 1997
editi ons of the UBC for smoke barriers. There may be times that smoke zones are
established havi ng no exterior walls. Provided the smoke control system functions
within the intent of Section 909, an alternate method may be proposed by the designers
for consideration by the AHJ. Since the requirement for smoke barriers being
continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall seems more applicable to passive smoke
control, this alternate methods option may be more applicable when mechanical
systems are used.
One example of thi s is a minimum !-hour wall installed horizontally. Although it
mu t be reali zed that this is no longer really a !-hour rated assembly, ratetl walls
installed horizontally are frequently accepted as compliant. One must be careful with
the structural support of these assemblies. To provide protection to the structural
supports, the studs should be within the assembly. The supporting mechanism should
not be wires attached to the deck above, since there would be minimal, if any,
protection from fire. This type of ceiling should not have any openings int o the void
above, or appropriate opening protecti ves must be used. Jt is unlikely any lay-in tile
ceilings will meet the intent of this exception. If the ceiling portion of a
floor/roof-ceiling assembly is proposed to meet this exception, substantiation of
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
3-4
SMOKE AND FIRE
DAMPERS
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS
minimal leakage and ftre resistance to adjacent spaces must be included in the
analysis.
709.5 Openings. Openings in a smoke barrier shall be protected in
accordance with Section 715.
Exception: In Group l -2. where doors are installed arross corridors. a pair
ofopposite-swinging doors without a center mullion shall be installed having
Fisiun panels with fire-protertion-rated glazing materials in fire-protec-
tion-rated frames. the area of which shall not exceed that tested. The doors
shall be close fitting within operational tolerances, anti shall not have under-
cuts, louvPrs or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, astragals
or rabbets at meeting edges and shall be automatic closing by smoke detec-
tion in accordance with Section 715.4. 7.3. Positive-latching devices are not
required.
Table 7 I 5.4 requires opening protectives in smoke baniers to have a minimum
fire-protection rating of 20 minutes.
709.6 Penetrations. Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with
Section 712.
709.7 Joints. Joints made in or between smoke barriers shall comply with
Section 713.
709.8 Duct and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a smoke barrier by
ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 716.
For smoke barriers to perform as intended, openings must be properly sealed to
limit leakage. Joints between smoke baniers can include the head-of-wall protection
and even edge-of-slab protection between floors. Even minor inadequacies in these
situations can compound and adversely affect the integrity of the smoke banier. For
penetrations, joints and ducUair transfer openings. compl iance with Sections 7 I 2, 713
and 7 I 6 helps ensure that smoke baniers will be constructed within the leakage
limitations of Section 909.
Section 716 specifies where fire and smoke dampers are required. Smoke
dampers are an indication of code-intended smoke barriers.
SECTION716
DUCTS AND AIR TRANSFER OPENINGS
716.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the protection
of duct penetrations and air transfer openings in assemblies required to
be protected.
716.l.I Ducts without dampers. Ducts that penetrate
fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are not required by this section to
have dampers shall comply with the requirements of Section 712.
716.2 Installation. Fire dampers, smoke dampers, combination
fire/smoke dampers and ceiling radiation dampers located within air
distribution and smoke control systems shall be installed in accordance
with the requirements of this section, the manufacturer's installation
instructions and the damper's listing.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
____________________________________________________ 3-5
.,..._ ., --
I 't-....
....... _ )
. \
I
"
'
)
716.2.1 Smoke control system. Where the installation of a fire damper
will interfere with the operation of a required smoke control system in
accordance with Section 909, approved alternati ve protection shall be
utilized.
[t may be argued that fire dampers can invari ably interfere with proper operation of
a smoke control system. Does this mean that all fi re dampers in smoke control systems
should be deleted? Section 716.3.1.1 explicitly allows increased activation
temperatures for fire dampers installed within smoke control systems. If there is
sufficient heat at a fire damper to actuate the fusible link, there may be the possibility
of spreading fire ftom one side of the barrier to the ln most cases. it may be
preferable to allow the fire damper to dose and maintain the fire resistance ofthe
passive barrier, knowing that the mechanical smoke control system may no longer be
able to perform its intended function. The impact of this subject can be minimized by
careful layout of the smoke control system to reduce the number of fire dampers
required. As specified in Section 716.2.1 above, an approved alternative shall he used.
This may be interpreted to require consideration under Section I 04.11 of the fBC.
716.3 Damper testing and ratings. Dampers shall be listed and bear the
label of an approved tnting agency indicating compliance with the
standards in this section. Fire dampers shall comply with the
requirements of VL 555. Only fire dampers labeled for use in dynamic
systems shall be installed in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
systems designed to operate with fans on during a fire. Smoke dampNs
shall comply with the requirements of UL 555S. Combination fire/smoke
dampers shall comply with the requirements of both UL 555 and UL 555S.
Ceiling radiation dampers shall comply with the requirements of UL
555C.
716.3. 1. 1 Fire damper actuation device. The fire damper actuating
device shall meet one of the following requirements:
litem I not reprinted here. I
2. The operating temperature shall be not more than 286 OF (141 C) where
located in a smoke control system complying with Section 909.
3. Where a combination fire/smoke damper is located in a smoke control system
complying with Section 909, the operating temperature rating shall be
approximately 50 F ( 10 C) above the maximum smoke control system
designed operating temperature, or a maximum temperature of 350 F ( 177
C). The temperature shall not e:J.ceed the UL 555S degradation test tempera-
ture rating for a combination fire/smoke damper.
716.3.2 Smoke damper ratings. Smoke damper leakage ratings shall not
be less than Class ll. Elevated temperature ratings shalL not be less than
250F(nrq
716.3.2.1 Smoke damper actuation methods. The smoke damper shall
close upon actuation of a listed smoke det ector or detectors installed in
accordance with Section 907.10 and one of the following methods, as
applicable:
!Items I through 5 have not been reiterated herein.l
Smoke dampers addressed in this sect ion are intended to restrict the transfer of
smoke through rated assemblies. As specified by Section 716.3.2.1, these dampers
must be actuated by smoke detector(s) at or near the respective damper. Since Section
7 16 only applies to dampers that protect openings through rated assemblies, smoke
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 1BC
I
' ' I
!
I
I
!
I
l'
I
II
' I
I'
:I
3-6
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS
detector activated closure does not apply to dampers that do not penetrate rated
assemblies and are only needed for proper configuration of HVAC, or smoke control
systems.
When smoke control systems are installed in the building, the specific fire alarm
initiating devices that cause those smoke dampers to properly configure must be
documented in the control diagrams. Positive indication of open/closed status is
required by Section 909. 16 for smoke/combination dampers that are part of a smoke
control system and/or that are installed within smoke barri ers separating smoke zones
where either zone is served by the mechanical smoke control equipment.
Although it may be appropriate (and required) to install smoke detectors in the
supply side of a smoke control system, one must be careful when installing smoke
detectors in ducts that are part of the exhaust side of a smoke control system.
When all aspects of the smoke control system are functioning properly, these smoke
detectors can be programmed 10 initiate smoke exhaust. [fa strategic portion of the
smoke control system indicates improper functioning (such as fan fai lure or a damper
incorrectly positioned, which could allow smoke to migrate across smoke barriers),
the same smoke detector can be programmed to initiate damper closure. Since damper
closure will typically be programmed as the fai lure mode of smoke control systems,
smoke detectors will frequently not be necessary at dampers in nondedicated
smoke control systems. Smoke detectors will rarely be needed at smoke dampers in
dedicated smoke control systems. Therefore, install ing smoke detectors to close
smoke dampers appli es primarily to air-handling systems that are not used for meeting
the provisions of Section 909.
716.5 Where required. Fire dampers. smoke dampers, combination
fire/smoke dampers and ceiling radiation dampers shall bf' provided at
the locations prescribed in Sections 716.5. 1 through 716.5.5. Where an
assembly is required to have both fire dampers and smoke dampers,
combination fire/smoke dampers or a fire damper and a smoke damper
shall be required.
Fire dampers (not smoke dampers) are required by Sections 716.5. 1 and 71 6.5.2 in
firewalls and fire barriers, respecti vely. ftem 2 of the exception to Section 716.5.2
allows fire dampers to be deleted when they are part of a ducted system used for
meeting the provisions of Section 909. See the discussion above for Section 716.2. I.
716.5.2 Fire barriers. Ducts and air transfer openings of fire barriers
shall be protected with approved fire dampers installed in accordance
with their listing. Durts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate exit
enclosures and exit passageways except as permitted by Sections
1020.1.2 and 1021.5, respectively.
Exception: Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of fire barriers
where any of the following apply:
[Item I of the exception is not reprinted here.]
2. Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system in accordance
with Section 909 and where the use of a fire damper would intetfere with the
operation of a smoke control system.
[Item 3 of the exception is not reprinted here.]
See the discussion for Section 716.2. 1
The second sentence of this requirement is consistent with, and necessary to meet,
the intent of Sections 1020.1.2 and I 021.5. Dampers cannot even be used to mitigate
ducts and air transfer openings into exit enclosures, or exit passageways. These types
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS 3-7
of openings and all other penetrations are restricted to only those necessary to serve
the enclosure. Provided any shaft enclosures containing ducts and other air
transfer grills that open into exit enclosures a r e protected equivalently to the exit
enc losure throughout their enti re length. they can be considered an extension of the
exit enclosure and meet the intent of this section. As extensions of the exit enclosure,
these enclosures (shafts) are not allowed to contain any conduit, plumbing, ducts or
anything else that is not needed to serve the exi t enclosure.
716.5.3 Shaft enclosures. Shaft enclosures that are permittPd to be
penetrated by ducts and air transfer openin!(s shall be protected with
approved fire and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their

Exceptions:
1. Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where:
1.1 Steel exhaust subducts Pxtend at least 22 inches ( 559 mm) vertirally in
exhaust shafts provided there is a continuous airflow upward to the out-
side, or ...
I Exception 1.2 is not reprinted here. I
1.3 Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system designed
and installed in uccordance with Section 909 and where the fire damper
will interfere with the operation of the smoke control system; or ...
I Exception 1.4 is not reprinted here.!
2. In Group B and R occupancies, equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, smoke dampers are
not required at penetrations of shafts where:
2.1 Kitchen. clothes dryer, bathroam and toilet room exhaust openings are
installed with steel exhaust subducts, having a wall thickness of at least
0.019 inch (0.48 mm); and
2.2 That extend at least 22 inches (559 mm) vertically; and
2.3 An exhaust fan is installed at the upper terminus of the shaft that is,
powered continuously in accordance with the provisions of Section
909.11, so as to maintain a continuous upward airflow to the outside.
[Exception 3 is not reprinted here.!
4. Smoke dampers are not required at penetrations of shafts where ducts are
used as part of an approved mechanical smoke control system designed in
accordance with Section 909 and where the smoke damper will interfere with
the operation of the smoke control system.
See the discussion for Section 716.2. 1.
This exception allows omission of the fire dampers only. Toilet exhaust shafts are
frequently designed and constructed to take advantage of this exception. This
exception in conjunction with Exception 2 of this section can be used to allow
omission of the smoke damper in B and R occupancies (see below for clarification).
The conti nuous airflow upward to the exterior in conj unction with the 22-inch (559
mm) subduct allows both the smoke and fire dampers. respectively, to be omitted.
These fans are required to be powered continuously in accordance with Section
909. 11 , which requires both primary and secondary sources.
See the discussion for Section 716.3.2.1.
A GUI DE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
3-8
COMBINED ZONING
CODE-MANDATED SMOKE BARRIERS
716.5.4.1 Corridors. A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage
of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening
penetrates a corridor enclosure required to have smoke and draft control
doors in accordance with Section 715.4.3.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke dampers are not required where the building is equipped throughout
with an approved smoke control system in accordance with Section 909, and
smoke dampers are not necessary for the operation and control of the system.
2. Smoke dampers are not required in corridor penetrations where the duct is
constructed of steel not less than 0.019-inch (0.48 mm) in thickness and there
are no openings serving the corridor.
Exception l allows smoke dampers to be omitted in buildings fully protected by
an approved smoke control system, when they "are not necessary for the operation
and control of the system." This allowance should only be considered on a
case-by-case basis. When the smoke control system is operating properly, smoke
dampers can be programmed to remain in the open position and still allow the smoke
control system to function within the intent of its design. When airflow sensors do not
indicate adequate air movement, these dampers can be programmed to close and
maintain the passive smoke barrier. If smoke can migrate from one smoke zone to
another through a ducted or nonducted damper when fans are off, recognition of
this allowance is not appropriate. A fire damper must still be installed when
required elsewhere.
716.5.5 Smoke barrier.v. A listed smoke damper designed to resist the .
passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer
opening penetrates a smoke barrier. Smoke dampers and smoke damper
ac:tuation methods shall comply with Section 716.3.2. 1.
Exception: Smoke dampers are not required where the openings in ducts are
limited to a single smoke compartment and the ducts are constructed of steel.
The exception recognizes that the smoke compartment may be considered
to include enclosed tubes (ducts) extending from the zone.
Passive smoke control systems utilize smoke barriers to limit smoke migration.
These passive barriers define passive smoke zones. Mechanical smoke control
systems utilize fans to produce pressure differences across smoke barriers or
establish airflow to limit and direct smoke movement. These mechanical systems
define active smoke zones.
A smoke control mode is defined as "an operational configuration of a system or
device for the purpose of smoke control." Smoke control zones can be defined by
their mode of operation (passive/active) and, in some instances, may change their
designation based on the mode of operation.
It is certainly within the intent of code to allow multiple passive smoke zones to be
exhausted simultaneously, provided smoke is not transferred across code-intended
smoke barri ers (including enclosed floors). Some passive smoke zones may constitute
a portion of a larger active smoke zone. When fans are operating properly and
dampers/doors are properly posi tioned, multiple passive zones may be served
simultaneously, provided that when fans fail to operate properly or dampers/doors
are not properly positioned, the system is designed to fail such that the passive barriers
can maintain the integrity of the passive smoke zone(s).
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 tBC

CODE-MANDATED
SMOKE ZONES
Conversely, it is reasonable to mechanically exhaust a portion of a large passive
zone, provided smoke is maintained in the general area of origin. In these si tuations,
one large passive smoke zone may be made up of several active smoke control
systems that activate independent! y.
Now let's take a look at specific code-mandated smoke zones and when it may be
reasonable to serve multiple passive smoke zones simultaneously.
Section I 002 defines a horizontal exit and clarifies that it is intended to establish an
area that is safe from fire and smoke originating in the area from which escape is made.
Therefore. under both passive and active conditions, horizontal exits always
constitute smoke barriers.
One contiguous facility may be viewed as multiple buildings when fire walls are
constructed in accordance with Section 705. Under both active and passive
conditions, fire walls are intended to act as smoke barriers. This is especially true
when fire walls are used to eliminate smoke control requirements from different
portions of a contiguous facility.
Sections I 020. 1.2 and I 021 .5 do not allow openings other than exit doors into stair
enclosures or exi t passageways. Mechanical smoke control is, therefore, not allowed
to simultaneously serve these rated exit enclosures and adjacent spaces. Based on this
requirement, stair enclosures and exit passageways must always be designed as
completely independent smoke zones from the remainder of the builuing.
Stair entrance vestibules. described in Section 909.20.2, are required to be
separated from the building and from the stair enclosure by a 2-hour fire barrier. As
specifietl in Sections 909.20.3.2 and 909.20.4.1, doors into the vestibule from the
building and from the vestibule into the stair enclosure are required to be smoke- and
draft-control assemblies in accordance with Section 715.4.3. Therefore, stair
entrance vestibules and all other portions of the building constitute separate
smoke zones.
Ducts serving exit passageways, stair enclosures and stair entrance vestibules
are also considered an extension of the respective exit component and are,
therefore, requiretl to be separated from all other portions of the building. To meet this
compartmentation requirement, shafts (whether ducted or not) providing smoke
control for these protected exit paths are not allowed to contain ducts, conduit or
piping serving any other portion of the building throughout the entire length of the
shaft.
Section 716.5.3 requires smoke dampers at openings into shafts. As such, shafts
constitute vertical smoke zones.
Floors define passive smoke zones. When two floors are open to each other as
allowed by Exception 7 of Section 707 .2, the interconnected levels may be viewed as a
single passive smoke zone.
Section 410.3.4 requires stages to be separated from the seating area with a wall
having not less than a 2-hour fire-resistance rating. Section 410.3.5 requires the
proscenium opening protection to intercept hot gases, flames anti smoke for 20
minutes. These requirements indicate that stages are considered separate smoke
zones from the adjacent public seating area.
Table I OJ 7.1 specifies the fire-resistance rating of corridors. Except for residential
occupancies, most buildings required to comply with Section 909 will not require
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
3-10 _________________________
fire-resistance-rated corridors. As in Table 715.4, all openings into
fire-resistance rated corridors are required to be protected. Section 715.4.3. 1 requires
doors in smoke barriers and rated corridors to be smoke- and draft-control assembl ies.
Class I I. 250F ( 12 I
0
C) smoke dampers are also required. The code: has always
intended that rated corridors constitute passive smoke zones. When corridors are
designed to be exhausted simultaneously with adjacent portions of the building, the
system should be designed such that the corridor is positive relative to the portion of
the building being exhausted.
Section 404.5 requires atria to be separated from nonatrium spaces by a 1-hour fire
barrier. Table 715.4 requires a minimum
3
/
4
-hour opening protection, but does not
specifically require smoke- and draft-control doors. There does not appear to be a
requirement for smoke dampers either. Taking these constraints into account, one may
conclude that atrium enclosures are not required to function as smoke barriers. This
conclusion contradicts the original intent of the atrium provisions, which expected
walls separating atria from nonatrium spaces to function more as smoke barriers than
fire barriers. Determination of the intended separation requirements between atria and
nonatrium spaces must be coordinated between the design team/owner and the AHJ
prior to design.
Similar to the preceding di scussion on atria, the original level of protection
intended for covered mall buildings has not been reiterated in the IBC. There is no
longer any requirement for smoke control systems serving tenant spaces to be separate
from those serving the mall. Although the original mall provisions intended that the
mall/tenant interface within covered mall buildings be considered a smoke barrier, this
level of protection is not specifically required by the IBC. When all ex it paths through
a high-bay mall are at the lowest level, it may be reasonable to exhaust all smoke from
the mall, whether it originates in the mall or an adjacent tenant area. When exi t paths
are through upper levels of multiple-level malls, an engineered analysis must be
performed to confirm that exit paths will not be adversely impacted by smoke
originating on a lower level being drawn across exit paths on upper levels. The design
team/owner and AHJ must be in concurrence with the goals for the smoke control
approach for covered mall buildings prior to design.
Office spaces are not required to be separated from adjacent office tenants. Walls
are not required to extend full height, nor are fire/smoke dampers required. Similar
allowances exist for adjacent retail tenants. Although smoke originating in one
such tenant space is not mandated by code to be contained within the space of
ori gin, it seems unlikely that you would appreciate your office or retail store being
considered part of your neighbors' smoke zone. This subject should be discussed
between the building owner and the design team. If each such tenant is to be a separate
smoke zone, the AHJ need only be made aware of this arrangement.
Sections 708 and 711 require R-1 guestrooms to be separated from adjacent units
by not less than !-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Por other than corridor
walls, Table 715.4 requires openings in fire partitions (Section 708) to be 3/
4
-hour
rated, but does not require smoke- and draft-control assemblies. Cn addition. Section
716.5.4 only requires fire dampers and not smoke dampers in fire partitions that do not
create corridor . Based on these requirements, one may conclude that the code does
not intend guestroom separations tO function as smoke barriers. Ct may be concl uded
that the additional level of protection provided for R- 1 guestrooms, such as automatic
sprinklers throughout and smoke detection. is sufficient to warrant a fire-resistive
separation only. If the designers, owners and AIJJ are uncomfortable with this level of
protection, additional protection is always acceptable.
Rather than evacuate occupants, hospitals and correction facili ties use a defend-in-
place strategy. As such, Sections 407.4 and 408.6 require smoke barriers for l-2 and
------------------------------------- --- - --
A GUI DE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
4-1
Chapter 4
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
PRESSURIZATION CONCEPT The pressurization method of smoke control uses pressure differences produced by
fans across barriers to control smoke movement. Figure 4.1 shows a pressure
difference being used to control smoke movement across a barrier. Within the barrier
is a door. The hi gh pressure side of the barrier is a space to be protected such as a
refuge area, egress route or other part of the building. The low pressure side of the
barrier is exposed to smoke from a fire. Airflow through the gaps around the door and
through construction cracks prevents smoke infiltration to the high pressure side. This
airflow through such small openings should not be confused with the airflow design
method (TBC 909.7) which is appropriate for large openings such as open doorways as
discussed in Chapter 5.
Figure 4.1
Pressure
difference across a
barrier controlling
smoke flow
909.6 PRESSURIZATION
METHOD
/I
Smoke /
High Pressure Side
Low Pressure Side
The commonly used pressurization systems are zoned smoke control , pressurized
stairs and pressurized elevators. The basic concepts of pressurization are discussed
below, and pressurized stairs and pressurized elevators are discussed in Chapters II
and 12.
909.6 Pressurization method. The primary mechanical means of
controlling smoke shall be by pressure differences across smoke barriers.
Maintenance of a tenable environment is not required in the smoke
control zone ofj!re origin.
This section, in conjunction with Section 909.4.6, clearly specifies that the
pressurization method is only intended tO contain smoke within the zone of origin for
at least 20 minutes. This design approach is not a ''purge" system, nor is it intended to
provide a tenable environment in the zone of origin. Smaller enclosed spaces with low
to moderate ceiling heights will typically use either a mechanical/active pressurization
approach or a nonmechanicallpassive approach. Mechanical systems will normally
use exhaust air to help reduce pressure in the area of fire origin. The proposed smoke
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
' I
..
. i
''
''
4-2
DESIGN PRESSURE
DIFFERENCE
Minimum Pressure
Difference
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
control approach along with its design intent should be discussed with the AHJ prior to
design and submitted for review and approval.
[F) 909.6.1 Minimum pressure difference. The mzmmum pressure
difference across a smoke barrier shall be 0.05-inch water gage (0.0124
kPa) in fully sprinklered buildings.
In buildings permitted to be other than fully sprinklered, the smoke
control system shall be designed to achieve pressure differences at least
two times the maximum calculated pressure difference produced by the
design fire .
The minimum pressure difference of 0.05 inches of water ( 12.4 Pa) will be verifi ed
by testing in accordance with Section 909.5. 1. When the pressurization method is
used, 0.05 inches of water ( 12.4 Pa) across smoke barri ers separating adjacent smoke
zones constitutes code compliance. The fan's capacity (cfm or Llmin) is not relevant
to this design method and need not be tested or confirmed. [tis the responsibility of the
design professionals and contractors to achieve the required 0.05 inches of water (I 2.4
Pa) pressure difference.
The rational analysis of the smoke control system needs to show that the system
maintains at least the minimum pressure difference of 0.05 inches of water ( I 2.4 Pa)
under conditions of stack effect and wind effect.
Smoke control systems are designed to operate within a pressure difference range .
This range is between the minimum design pressure difference and the maximum
pressure difference.
The minimum design pressure difference is generally stipulated by the code. For
the pressurization method, Section 909.6. 1 states that the mi ni mum design pressure
difference is 0.05 inches of water ( 12.4 Pa). For stair pressuri zation systems. Section
909.20.5 states that the minimum design pressure difference is 0.15 inches of water
(37.3 Pa). For elevator hoistway pressurization, Sect ion 707. 14.2. 1 states that the
minimum design pressure difference is 0.04 inches of water (I 0.0 Pa). This section
discusses minimum design pressure differences, and what kind of performance can be
expected from various values of minimum pressure difference.
The minimum design pressure difference is a value of pressure difference that the
smoke control system needs to maintain under design conditi ons of stack effect and
wind effect. The analysis presented here is intended to provide insight into the level of
smoke protection that can be anticipated by the val ues of minimum pressure
difference in the code. The minimum design pressure difference can be calculated as a
safety factor plus the buoyancy pressure difference of the fire:
!1P. = !1P
5
F+ 7.64h[ I - I J
nun T
0
+ 460 T
0
-!- 460
For SJ: !1P . = !1PsF + 3460h [
1
-
1
]
mon T
0
+ 273 T F + 273
where:
!1P,.
1
= Minimum design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa).
!1P
5
F =Pressure difference safety factor, inches of water (Pa).
(4. 1)
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
=Distance above neutral plane, ft (m).
= Temperature of surroundings. "F (C).
T, = Temperature of hot gases, oF (C).
for purposes of Equation (4. 1 ). the neutral plane is a horizontal plane between the
fire space and surrounding space at whi ch the pressure difference between the fire
space and the surrounding space is zero. The 2006 edition ofNFPA 92A
1
recommends
conservati ve values: (I ) has two-thirds the floor to ceiling height, (2) = 0.03 inches of
water (7.5 Pa), and (3) TF = 1700 F (927 C) for fully developed fires. The safety
factor is chosen to account for the normal fluctuations in pressure due to changes in
wind and barometric pressure. for a sprinklered fire, temperature of hot gases, T,.-, is a
weighted average value of the smoke layer temperature and the lower layer
temperature.
Example 4. J. Part I. shows that the minimum pressure difference needed to control
smoke from a fully developed fire in space with a 9-foot (2. 74 m) ceil ing height is 0.10
inches of water (24.9 Pa). Pan 2 of this example shows that the minimum pressure
difference needed to control smoke from a successfully sprinklered fire in space with a
9-foot (2.74 m) cei ling hei ght is 0.05 inches of water ( 12.4 Pa). These values agree
with those presented in NFPA 92A.
___ ... _________ _
Example 4. 1 Minimum Design Pressure Difference
Part 1: For a cei ling height of 9 feet , what is the minimum design pressure difference with a fully
developed fire?
tlP
5
, = 0.03 in I 1!0
T
0
= 70 or
TF = 1700 "f
2
h =- (9) = 6ft
3
!lP . = !lP,r + 7.64h[--
1
- - _ _ I - - ] = 0.03 + 7.64(6)[ I - I ] = 0.10 in. Hp
""" T
0
+ 460 T F + 460 70 + -+60 1700 + 460
Part 2: For a ceiling height of 9 feet , what is the minimum design pressure difference with a
sprinklered fire?
!lP,F = 0.03 in HP
T
0
= 70F
2
h = - ( 9) = 6ft
3
The ceiling height is H = 9 ft.
The depth of the smoke layer is d = 0.9 ft.
The smoke layer temperature is 7 ~ = 1700 F
T F = ! .. d + ~ ( = ~ ~ = 1700(0.9) + 70(9 - 0.9) = 2330F
li 9
[
l I ] [ I I ] .
!lPmin = !lP SF+ 7.64h - = O.QJ + 7.64(6) - = 0.05 m. Hp
T 0 + 460 T F + 460 70 + 460 233 + 460
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
:;. ::
i '
' '
., '
' , .
:!'
1.;:
II' :
' .I
I
1 ,
1
I
I '
I I
I,
I
'I I;
'
,'
' I
I,
: ,; .
'
' "
'I '
' I
r
It I
,I
II 'i'' .,
I'
I
; ' !
i'j
f :::
' I
I :
I '
, I
.
'
:I 1
I' I
I ,
'I i
, I
1, I' I
. I
4-4
Maximum Pressure
Difference
Figure 4.2
Door opening force
for side-hinged
swinging door
Figure 4.3
Scale for
measuring door
opening force
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
Section 909.6.2 of the IBC states that the maximum air pressure difference across a
smoke barrier shall be determined by required door-opening or closing forces. The
actual force required to open exit doors when the system is in the smoke control mode
shall be in accordance with Section 1 008.1 .2. Section 909.6 of the TBC states that the
door force to set a side-hinged, swinging door in motion is calculated by:
F = F +
de 2(W-d)
(4.2)
where:
=Door area, square feet (m'). A
d
F
= Distance from door handle to latch edge of door, feet (m).
= Total door opening force, pounds (N).
Fd, = Force required to overcome closing device, pounds (N).
K =Coefficient 5.2 (1.0).
W =Door width, feet (m).
M = Design pressure difference, inches of water (Pa).
Equation (4.2) is applicable for doors that do not stick to the frame and have
properly lubricated hinges (i.e., limited ftictional forces). The total door opening
force, F, and the door are shown in Figure 4.2.
HIGH PRESSURE SIDE
w
d!+-/Knob
Figure 4.3 is a scale that can be used for measuring the total door opening force, F.
One end of the scale is attached to the door, and the other end is pulled until the door
starts to move. When doing this, the knob needs to be turned so that the door latch is
disengaged. From Equation (4.2) it can be seen that when the pressure difference
across the door is zero, the total door opening force, F, is the same as the force required
to overcome the closing device, FJc An easy way to determine the force required to
overcome the closing device is to measure the total door opening force when there is
no pressure difference across the door.
Pull Here Until
Attached to Door Opens

I I I II I \Ill I \Ill\ I\\ I\\\\ I\ Ill I I I
z ... ,.
Section 1008.1 .2 limits the maximum force to set a door in motion to 30 pounds
( 133 N). The appropriate comractors, AHJ and/or the Special Inspection Agency, are
expected to verify that opening force limitations are in compliance. The rational
analysis of the smoke control system needs to show that the force to set a door in
motion does not exceed 30 pounds ( J 33 N) under conditions of stack effect and wind
effect.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS 4-5
Example 4.2 shows that a door 3 feet wide by 7 feet high (0.914 m wide by 2.13 m
high) with a door closer that requires 9 pounds of force and a pressure difference
across it of 0.35 inches of water has a door opening force of 30 pounds ( 1 33 N). This
means that a pressure difference of0.35 inches of water (87 Pa) is about the maximum
that can be used for a 3-foot by 7-foot door (0.914 m by 2. 13 m) without exceeding the
aJlowable door-opening force. When pressures greater than this are expected,
power-assisted doors may be needed.
Example 4.2 Door Opening Force
What is the door opening force for a door 3 feet wide by 7 feet high with a door closer that requires 9
pounds of force and a pressure difference across it of 0.35 inches water gage? The knob is 3 inches
from the edge of the door.
W=3ft
FJc = 91b
d = 0.25 ft
A=3 X 7=21 ft
2
K= 5.2
11P=0.35 in Hp
From Equation (4.2):
I
F = F + W A ~ P ) =
9
+ 5.2(3)(21)(035) =
30
lb
de 2(W - d) 2(3 - 0.25)
PRESSURIZATION
SYSTEMS
Pressurized stairs and pressurized elevator hoi stways are forms of pressuri zation
systems, but they are not discussed here. Pressurized stai rs are treated in Chapter II
and Appendix E, and pressurized elevators are discussed in Chapter l 2.
The systems discussed here are what NFPA 92A refers to as zoned smoke control.
Zoned smoke control systems are sometimes called ''pressure sandwich" systems. fn a
zoned smoke control system, a building is divided into a number of smoke zones, each
separated from the others by smoke barriers. In the event of a fire, pressure differences
produced by mechanicaJ fans are used to limit the smoke spread to the zone in which
the fire initiated. The concentration of smoke in thi s zone goes unchecked.
Accordingly, in zoned smoke control systems, it is intended that occupants evacuate
the zone where the fire is as soon as possible.
Frequently, each floor of a building is designed as a separate smoke control zone, but
a smoke zone can be part of a floor or even more than one floor. Figure 4.4 (a) shows a
tall building where each floor is a smoke control zone. This figure shows the classical
smoke control concept of exhausting the fire floor and pressurizing the floor above and
below the fire floor. Figure 4.4 (b) shows a sprawling building where each floor is
divided into a number of smoke control zones. ln this figure the smoke zone is exhausted
and the surrounding zones are pressurized.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
! I

Figure 4.4
Arrangements of
zones for zoned
smoke control
systems
Activation
v
I + /
-
II
+
/r/ /'//
(a) Relatively Short Building
Symbols:
- Smoke Zone
+ Pressurized Spaces
Smoke Zone
+
Notes:
1. Misidentification of the fire location can
result in incorrectly pressurizmg the zone
with the fire and forcing smoke into other
zones and into stairs. Classical zoned
smoke control should only be used with
extreme caution.
2. Because of concern about forcing smoke
into stairs as described above, classical
zoned smoke control is only recommended
for relatively short buildings.
3. Zoned smoke control works best for
buildings with open floor plans or corridors
with normally open doors.
4. Zoned smoke control does not work well
with buildings where the floors are divided
into many rooms such as hotels and
apartment buildings.
+
- ..--
Smoke Zone
+
-'/
//'/' // //'/'/'/'/' u /'/////////, // // //////..0
(b) Sprawling Building ZKMol
Jn addition to the classical zone smoke control approach of exhaust.ing the zone with
the fire and pressurizing adjacent zones, there are a number of other options. Two
options for zoned smoke control are (I) exhausting the fire zone and no treatment of
adjacent zones, and (2) venting the fire zone to the outside and pressurizing adjacent
zones. A passive approach to zoned smoke control can also be used that has ftre zone
venting and no treatment of adjacent zones.
Unless otherwise stated, the discussions that follow apply to the classical zone
smoke control approach.
It is common to activate zoned smoke control systems based on signals from smoke
detectors, sprinkler water flow or heat detectors. For proper operation of zoned smoke
control systems, it is important that the fire location be correctly identified. Smoke
detectors with the exception of those located in HV AC ducts have the advantage that
they respond very quickly to fire. Sprinkler water flow and heat detectors have a low
incidence of fal se alarms. Advances in smoke detector technology have significantly
reduced concerns about false alarm . A signal from at least two sources ( moke
detectors, sprinkler water flow or heat detectors) is recommended to assure activation
in the event of a component failure.
Smoke detectors located in HV AC ducts can be a secondary means of activating
zoned smoke control systems . Such duct smoke detectors must not be the primary
means of activation for two reasons: (I) duct smoke detectors are slow to respond to
smoke from outside the HVAC system, (2) clogging with dust and other particulates
can prevent duct smoke detectors from operating.
Zoned smoke control must not be activated by signals from manual pull stations,
because pull stations do not identify the location of the fire. A person seeing a fire may
start to exit the building only to activate the pull station a number of floors away from
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
Interaction with
Pressurized Stairs
Open Floor Plans
Figure 4.5
A floor of an
idealized open plan
office
4-7
the fire. Because a signal from a pull station does not identify the fire location, manual
pull stations must not be used to activate zoned smoke control systems.
As stated above, the classical smoke control approach consists of exhausting the
smoke zone and pressurizing the surrounding zones. Zoned smoke control is often in
buildings with pressurized stairs. The exhaust on the fire floor increases the pressure
difference from the stairs to the smoke zones. and the pressurization of the
surrounding zones decreases the pressure difference from the stairs to the surrounding
zones. Sometimes the pressure difference of the stairs in the surrounding zones
becomes negative, and there is flow from the surrounding zones into the stairs. This
Joss of t a i r pressurization in the surrounding zones can be a concern as discussed
below.
As already stated, zoned smoke control needs to have the fire location properly
identified. On rare occasions the first detector acti vated was away from the fire floor
due to unusual smoke migration. Sometimes the wrong fire location is identified due
to an installation error. While such misidentification of the fire location is unusual, the
consequences need to be taken into account during system design. Such
misidentification of the fire location could result in pressurizing the fire floor and
forcing smoke into other floors and into stairs.
Because misidentification of the fire location can result in incorrectly pressurizing
the zone with the fire and forcing smoke into other zones and into stairs, zoned smoke
control should only be used with extreme caution. This misidentification of the fire
location can happen (I) when a detector away from the fire is the first one activated or
(2) when the detectors were installed with incorrect location identification. Tn unusual
situations smoke has migrated to tloors away from the fire fl oor and activated
detectors there before any detectors on the fire floor were activated.
For smoke control systems properly commi ssioned in accordance with Section
909.18 and tested weekly in accordance with Section 909.12, the potential for
detectors installed with incorrect location identification is minimized. Because of
concern about forcing smoke into stai rs as described above. classical zoned smoke
control is only recommended for relatively short buildings (6 or 8 stories).
Zoned smoke control works best for buildings with open floor plans. Figure 4.5
shows an idealized plan of a floor with an open office plan. Because the floor plan is
open, pressurizing and exhausting floors is easy to accomplish. The floor is expected
Symbols:
SW Stairs
WT Women's Toilet
MT Men's Toilet
181 Elevator
-++ Door
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
sw
Open Office Space
Open Office Space
~ ~ ~ ~ I
sw
Note: Zoned smoke control works
best for buildings with open floor
plans.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
r
,I
,,
'!
I
4-8
Good for Sprawling
Buildings
Caution
PRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS
to have office furniture and office dividers, but otherwise the space is open. When
there is a fire on one floor, that tloor is exhausted and rhe floors above and below are
pressurized. This reduces the potential for smoke to go to the floors above and below
the fire floor. This provides protection from floor-to-floor smoke spread for fires that
can happen anywhere in an office space. Often open plan offices have a number of
small offices by the windows or in the interior, and such small offices do not generally
interfere with the performance of the zoned smoke control system.
Smoke control zones are typically large spaces, so that the smoke exhaust consists
of exhausting a large amount of air that dilutes the smoke from the fire so that the
temperature of the gases in the exhaust fan is relatively low. It was not mentioned
above, but the smoke control zone can consi t of a number of floors which also works
to keep the temperature of the gases in the exhaust relatively tow. rt is not appropriate
to rely on sprinklers to cool smoke down, because the smoke temperature from
successfully sprinklered fires that are shielded from sprinkler spray can be relatively
high [as high as 233 F (ll2C)].
Zoned smoke control can also work well for buildings that have corridors with
normally open doors. Examples of this are ( I ) a nursing wing of a hospital and (2) an
office where the corridor doors are normally open during working hours. As stated
above, classical zoned smoke control is only recommended for relati vely short
buildings.
Zoned smoke control can also work well with sprawling buildings that have a
number of wings. The smoke control zones can be each tl oor of each wing as shown in
Figure 4.4 (b). This approach works well with a horizontal evacuation of the zone of
the fire to other zones on the same floor.
Zoned smoke control does not work well with buildings where the floors are
divided into many rooms such as hotels and apartment buildings. This section does not
apply to passive smoke control which is addressed in Chapter 3. The discussion that
follows focuses on apartment buildings, but it is also completely appl icable to hotels,
condominiums and offices with normally closed corridor doors.
A particularly poor system approach for apartment buildings is to make each
apartment and the corridors separate smoke control zones. Such a large number of
small zones results in an overly complex system. With such small smoke control
zones, the smoke exhaust consists of exhausting only a little air to dilute the smoke
from the fire so that the temperature of the gases in the exhaust fan is relatively high.
The advantages of large smoke control L.ones have already been discussed.
While limiting zoned smoke control to the corridors may seem a good approach for
an apartment building, these corridor-only zoned smoke control systems provide little
smoke protection. The most common fire scenarios for these buildings consist of fi res
in the apartments. The corridor-only systems do not provide floor-to-floor pressure
differences for fires in the apartments, so smoke can flow vertically to apartments
above and below the apartment with the fire. Therefore, corridor-only zoned smoke
control systems do not provide any smoke protection for the major fire scenarios in
apartment buildings. However, the corridor-only zoned smoke control systems have
all of the concerns about interaction with pressurized stairs discussed above.
For the reasons discussed above, classical zoned smoke control is not
recommended for buildings where the floors are divided into many rooms such as
hotels and apartment buildings.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC
PRESSURIZATIOf'J
SYSTEM ANALYSIS
REFERENCE
A rational analysis of the smoke control system is required in accordance with
Seclion 909.4 of the IBC. Buildings with zoned smoke control may also have other
smoke control systems such as pressurized stairs and pressurized elevators. When
these systems are activated, they interact with each other, and the rational analysis of
smoke control sy terns need to be done with all the systems operating together as they
would during a fire. A network computer program su(;h as CONT AM should be used
for the rational analysis.
1
NFPA 92A. Standard for Smoke-Control Systems Utilizing Barriers and Pressure
Differences. Quincy, MA: National Pire Protection Association, 2006.
A GUIDE TO SMOKE CONTROL IN THE 2006 IBC