Commercial Building Inspector B2General Administration, Permits, and PlansMedium
A commercial building inspector is reviewing plans for a new 4-story Group R-2 apartment building. The plans indicate that the building will have a common laundry room on the first floor. What is the maximum flame spread index permitted for interior wall and ceiling finishes in this common laundry room?
- AClass C (76-200)
- BClass B (26-75)
- CNo restriction if sprinklered
- DClass A (0-25)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Class B (26-75)
According to IBC Table 803.13, Group R-2 occupancies require Class B interior wall and ceiling finishes in all areas other than exit enclosures and corridors. A common laundry room falls under 'other areas'.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Class C is generally permitted for some accessory spaces or in buildings with more stringent sprinkler protection, but not for typical R-2 common areas.
- C. Sprinklers can sometimes allow for a reduction in class, but there is still a minimum requirement, and 'no restriction' is incorrect.
- D. Class A is required for exit enclosures and corridors in Group R-2.
Interior Finish Flame Spread (R-2 Other Areas)
The maximum flame spread index allowed for interior wall and ceiling finishes in common areas (excluding exit enclosures and corridors) within a Group R-2 apartment building.
- Governed by IBC Chapter 8, Interior Finishes.
- Specific requirements vary by occupancy group and location within the building.
- Aims to limit fire spread along surfaces.
Memory trick: R-2 laundry, B for safety, better than just C.