Commercial Building Inspector B2Public Safety and Special ConstructionMedium
A building inspector is reviewing the plans for a new six-story apartment building (Group R-2). The plans include a trash chute system. According to IBC, what is the minimum fire-resistance rating for the walls enclosing the trash chute and the refuse room?
- A1.5-hour
- B1-hour
- C2-hour
- D3-hour
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 2-hour
According to IBC Section 713.13.2, trash chutes and linen chutes shall be enclosed in shafts having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where extending through more than four stories. A six-story building exceeds four stories, thus requiring a 2-hour rating. Additionally, IBC 713.13.5 specifies that the refuse room at the base of the chute shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 1.5-hour rating is not a standard fire-resistance rating for trash chute enclosures in IBC.
- B. 1-hour enclosure is typically for shafts extending through 4 stories or less, or for other less hazardous shafts.
- D. 3-hour rating is for higher hazard or taller shafts, such as in high-rise buildings requiring structural fire resistance.
Trash Chute Enclosure Rating
Trash and linen chutes, along with their associated refuse rooms, must be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction to prevent fire spread between floors.
- Rating depends on building height (number of stories).
- 2-hour rating for chutes extending through more than 4 stories.
- Refuse room at base also requires rating.
Memory trick: Chute height: Over 4 stories, two hours to contain the fire.