13VAC5-63-310: Chapter 28 Mechanical systems

A. Change Section 2801.1 of the IBC to read:

2801.1 Scope. Mechanical appliances, equipment, and systems shall be constructed and installed in accordance with this chapter, the IMC, and the IFGC. Masonry chimneys, fireplaces, and barbecues shall comply with the IMC and Chapter 21 of this code.

Exception: This code shall not govern the construction of water heaters, boilers, and pressure vessels to the extent that they are regulated by the Virginia Boiler and Pressure Vessel Regulations (16VAC25-50). However, the building official may require the owner of a structure to submit documentation to substantiate compliance with those regulations.

B. Add Section 2801.1.1 to the IBC to read:

2801.1.1 Required heating in dwelling units. Heating facilities shall be required in every dwelling unit or portion thereof that is to be rented, leased, or let on terms, either expressed or implied, to furnish heat to the occupants thereof. The heating facilities shall be capable of maintaining the room temperature at 65°F (18°C) during the period from October 15 to May 1 during the hours between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. of each day and not less than 60°F (16°C) during other hours when measured at a point three feet (914 mm) above the floor and three feet (914 mm) from the exterior walls. The capability of the heating system shall be based on the outside design temperature required for the locality by this code.

C. Add Section 2801.1.2 to the IBC to read:

2801.1.2 Required heating in nonresidential structures. Heating facilities shall be required in every enclosed occupied space in nonresidential structures. The heating facilities shall be capable of producing sufficient heat during the period from October 1 to May 15 to maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F (18°C) during all working hours. The required room temperature shall be measured at a point three feet (914 mm) above the floor and three feet (914 mm) from the exterior walls.

Processing, storage, and operation areas that require cooling or special temperature conditions and areas in which persons are primarily engaged in vigorous physical activities are exempt from these requirements.

D. Add Section 2801.1.3 to the IBC to read:

2801.1.3 Changes to the IMC. The following changes shall be made to the IMC:

1. Add the following definitions to Section 202 of the IMC:

Refrigerant designation. The unique identifying alphanumeric value or refrigerant number assigned to an individual refrigerant and published in ASHRAE Standard 34.

2. Change Section 401.2 of the IMC to read:

401.2 Ventilation required. Every occupied space shall be ventilated by natural means in accordance with Section 402 or by mechanical means in accordance with Section 403. Group R dwelling units shall be ventilated by mechanical means in accordance with Section 403. Ambulatory care facilities and Group I-2 occupancies shall be ventilated by mechanical means in accordance with Section 407.

3. Change Section 403.3.1.1 of the IMC to read:

403.3.1.1 Outdoor airflow rate. Ventilation systems shall be designed to have the capacity to supply the minimum outdoor airflow rate determined in accordance with this section. In each occupiable space, the ventilation system shall be designed to deliver the required rate of outdoor airflow to the breathing zone. The occupant load utilized for design of the ventilation system shall not be less than the number determined from the estimated maximum occupant load rate indicated in Table 403.3.1.1. Ventilation rates for occupancies not represented in Table 403.3.1.1 shall be those for a listed occupancy classification that is most similar in terms of occupant density, activities, and building construction or shall be determined by an approved engineering analysis. The ventilation system shall be designed to supply the required rate of ventilation air continuously during the period the building is occupied, except as otherwise stated in other provisions of the code.

With the exception of smoking lounges and other designated areas where smoking is permitted, the ventilation rates in Table 403.3.1.1 are based on the absence of smoking in occupiable spaces.

Exception: The occupant load is not required to be determined based on the estimated maximum occupant load rate indicated in Table 403.3.1.1 where approved statistical data document the accuracy of an alternate anticipated occupant density.

4. Add the following rows to Table 403.3.1.1 of the IMC to read:

OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION

Occupant Density #/1000 ft2 a

People Outdoor Airflow Rate in Breathing Zone,

Rp cfm/person

Area Outdoor Airflow Rate in Breathing Zone, Ra cfm/ft2a

Exhaust Airflow Rate

Cfm/ft2a

Food and beverage service

Bars or cocktail lounges designated as an area where smoking is permittedb

100

30

--

--

Cafeteria or fast food designated as an area where smoking is permittedb

100

20

--

--

Dining rooms designated as an area where smoking is permittedb

70

20

--

--

Public spaces

Lounges designated as an area where smoking is permittedb

100

30

--

--

Medical procedure roomsI

20

15

-

-

Patient roomsI

10

25

-

-

Physical therapy roomsI

20

15

-

-

i. For spaces that are located in clinic, outpatient facilities as defined in Chapter 2 of the VCC.

5. Change Section 504.9.2 of the IMC to read:

504.9.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be supported at four-foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in place. The insert end of the duct shall extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that protrude into the inside of the duct.

Where dryer exhaust ducts are enclosed in wall or ceiling cavities, such cavities shall allow the installation of the duct without deformation.

6. Change Item 2 of Section 504.11 to read:

2. Dampers shall be prohibited in the exhaust duct. Penetrations of the shaft and ductwork shall be protected in accordance with Section 607.5.5, Exception 1.

7. Change Exception 1 of Section 505.3 of the IMC to read:

1. In Group R buildings, where installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and where mechanical or natural ventilation is otherwise provided in accordance with Chapter 4, listed and labeled ductless range hoods shall not be required to discharge to the outdoors.

8. Change Item 2 in Section 505.5 to read:

2. Penetrations of the shaft and ductwork shall be protected in accordance with Section 607.5.5.

9. Change Section 505.6 of the IMC to read:

505.6 Other than Group R. In other than Group R occupancies, where electric domestic cooking appliances are utilized for domestic purposes, domestic range hoods shall be permitted for such appliances. Hoods and exhaust systems for such electric domestic cooking appliances shall be in accordance with Sections 505.2 and 505.4. In other than Group R occupancies, where fuel-fired domestic cooking appliances are utilized for domestic purposes, a Type I or Type II hood shall be provided as required for the type of appliances and processes in accordance with Section 507.1.

10. Change Section 510.6.1.1 of the IMC to read:

510.6.1.1 Shaft penetrations. Hazardous exhaust ducts that penetrate fire-resistance-rated shafts shall comply with Section 713.11 of the International Building Code.

11. Change Section 607.5.5 of the IMC to read:

607.5.5 Shaft enclosures. Shaft enclosures that are permitted to be penetrated by ducts and air transfer openings shall be protected with approved fire and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their listing.

Exceptions:

1. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where steel exhaust subducts extend at least 22 inches (559 mm) vertically in exhaust shafts, provided there is a continuous airflow upward to the outside.

2. Fire dampers are not required where penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.

3. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system in accordance with Section 909 of the International Building Code.

4. Fire and smoke dampers are not required where the penetrations are in parking garage exhaust or supply shafts that are separated from other building shafts by not less than two-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.

5. Smoke dampers are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the International Building Code.

12. Add Section 607.6.2.2 to the IMC to read:

607.6.2.2 Equipment shutdown. Where ceiling radiation dampers are listed as static dampers, the HVAC equipment shall be effectively shut down to stop the airflow prior to the damper closing using one of the following methods:

1. A duct detector installed in the return duct.

2. An area smoke detector interlocked with the HVAC equipment.

3. A listed heat sensor installed in the return duct.

13. Change Table 1101.2 to read:

EQUIPMENT

STANDARDS

Refrigeration fittings, including press-connect, flared and threaded

UL 109 and UL 207

Air-conditioning equipment and heat pump equipment

UL 1995 or UL/CSA 60335-2-40

Packaged terminal air conditioners and heat pumps

UL 484 or UL/CSA 60335-2-40

Split-system air conditioners and heat pumps

UL 1995 or UL/CSA 60335-2-40

Dehumidifiers

UL 474 or UL/CSA 60335-2-40

Air/water cooled condensers

UL 1995 or UL/CSA 60335-2-40 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Refrigeration equipment

UL 1995 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Unit coolers

UL 412 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Commercial refrigerators, freezers, beverage coolers, and walk-in coolers

UL 471 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Refrigerating units and walk-in coolers

UL 427 or UL 60335-2-89

Refrigeration condensing units

UL 1995 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Automatic commercial ice machines

UL 563 or UL/CSA 60335-2-89

Refrigerant-containing components and accessories

UL 207

14. Add Section 1101.2.1 to read:

1101.2.1 Group A2L, A2, A3, and B1 high probability equipment. High probability equipment using Group A2L, A2, A3, or B1 refrigerant shall comply with UL 484, UL/CSA 60335-2-40, or UL/CSA 60335-2-89.

15. Change Sections 1101.7 and 1102.2.1 to read:

1101.7 Changing refrigerant. Changes of refrigerant in an existing system to a refrigerant with a different refrigerant designation shall only be allowed where in accordance with the following:

1. The owner or the owner's authorized agent shall be notified prior to making a change of refrigerant, and the change of refrigerant shall not be made where the owner objects to the change.

2. The change in refrigerant shall be in accordance with one of the following.

2.1 Written instructions of the original equipment manufacturer.

2.2 An evaluation of the system by a registered design professional or by an approved agency that validates safety and suitability of the replacement refrigerant.

2.3 Approved by the code official.

3. Where the replacement refrigerant is classified into the same safety group, requirements that were applicable to the existing system shall continue to apply.

4. Where the replacement refrigerant is classified into a different safety group, the system shall comply with the requirements of this standard for a new installation, and the change of refrigerant shall require code official approval.

1102.2.1 Mixing. Refrigerants with different refrigerant designations shall only be mixed in a system in accordance with both of the following:

1. The addition of a second refrigerant is allowed by the equipment manufacturer and is in accordance with the manufacturer's written instructions.

2. The resulting mixture does not change the refrigerant safety group.

16. Change Table 1103.1 of the IMC to read (portions of table not shown remain):

TABLE 1103.1 REFRIGERANT CLASSIFICATION, AMOUNT AND OEL

Chemical Refrigerant

Formula

Chemical Name of Blend

Refrigerant Safety Group Classification

AMOUNT OF REFRIGERANT PER OCCUPIED SPACE

RCL

LFL

OELd

lb/MCf

ppm

g/m3

lb/MCf

ppm

g/m3

ppm

R-11c

CCl3F

trichlorofluoromethane

A1

0.39

1,100

6.1

1,000

R-12c

CCl2F2

dichlorodifluoromethane

A1

5.6

18,000

90

1,000

R-13c

CClF3

chlorotrifluoromethane

A1

—

—

—

1,000

R-13B1c

CBrF3

bromotrifluoromethane

A1

—

—

—

1,000

R-13I1

CF3I

trifluoroiodomethane

A1

1.0

2,000

16

500

R-31

CH2ClF

chlorofluoromethane

-

-

-

-

-

R-32

CH2F2

difluoromethane (methylene fluoride)

A2L

4.8

36,000

77

19.1

144,000

306

1,000

R-41

CH3F

fluoromethane (methyl fluoride)

-

-

-

-

-

R-50

CH4

methane

A3

—

—

—

50,000

1,000

R-113c

CCl2FCClF2

1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane

A1

1.2

2,600

20

1,000

R-114c

CClF2CClF2

1,2-dichloro-1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane

A1

8.7

20,000

140

1,000

R-141b

CH3CCl2F

1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane

—

0.78

2,600

12

17.8

60,000

287

500

R-142b

CH3CClF2

1-chloro-1,1-difluoroethane

A2

5.1

20,000

82

20.4

80,000

329

1,000

R-143a

CH3CF3

1,1,1-trifluoroethane

A2L

4.4

21,000

70

17.5

82,000

282

1,000

R-152a

CH3CHF2

1,1-difluoroethane

A2

2.0

12,000

32

8.1

48,000

130

1,000

R-170

CH3CH3

ethane

A3

0.54

7,000

8.6

2.4

31,000

38

1,000

R-E170

CH3OCH3

Methoxymethane (dimethyl ether)

A3

1.0

8,500

16

4.0

34,000

64

1,000

R-290

CH3CH2CH3

propane

A3

0.59

5,300

9.5

2.4

21,000

38

1,000

R-C318

(CF2)4

octafluorocyclobutane

A1

41

80,000

650

1,000

R-400Ac

zeotrope

R-12/114 (50.0/50.0)

A1

10

28,000

160

1,000

R-400Bc

zeotrope

R-12/114 (60.0/40.0)

A1

11

30,000

170

1,000

R-403B

zeotrope

R-290/22/218 (5.0/56.0/39.0)

A1

18

68,000

290

1,000

R-406A

zeotrope

R-22/600a/142b (55.0/4.0/41.0)

A2

4.7

21,000

75

18.8

82,000

301.9

1,000

R407I

zeotrope

R-32/125/134a(19.5/8.5/72.0)

A1

16

71,100

250

1,000

R-408A

zeotrope

R-125/143a/22 (7.0/46.0/47.0)

A1

21

94,000

330

1,000

R-411A

zeotrope

R-127/22/152a (1.5/87.5/11.0)

A2

2.9

14,000

46

11.6

55,000

185.6

970

R-411B

zeotrope

R-1270/22/152a (3.0/94.0/3.0)

A2

2.8

13,000

45

14.8

70,000

238.3

940

R-412A

zeotrope

R-22/218/142b (70.0/5.0/25.0)

A2

5.1

22,000

82

20.5

87,000

328.6

1,000

R-413A

zeotrope

R-218/134a/600a (9.0/88.0/3.0)

A2

5.8

22,000

93

23.4

88,000

374.9

1,000

R-414B

zeotrope

R-22/124/600a/142b (50.0/39.0/1.5/9.5)

A1

6.0

23,000

96

1,000

R-417A

zeotrope

R-125/134a/600 (46.6/50.0/3.4)

A1

3.5

13,000

55

1,000

R-417B

zeotrope

R-125/134a/600 (79.0/18.3/2.7)

A1

4.3

15,000

69

1,000

R-418A

zeotrope

R-290/22/152a (1.5/96.0/2.5)

A2

4.8

22,000

77

19.2

89,000

308.4

1,000

R-419A

zeotrope

R-125/134a/E170 (77.0/19.0/4.0)

A2

4.2

15,000

67

16.7

60,000

268.6

1,000

R-419B

zeotrope

R-125/134a/E170 (48.5/48.0/3.5)

A2

4.6

17,000

74

18.5

69,000

297.3

1,000

R-420A

zeotrope

R-134a/142b (88.0/12.0)

A1

12

44,000

180

1,000

R-423A

zeotrope

R-134a/227ea (52.5/47.5)

A1

19

59,000

300

1,000

R-424A

zeotrope

R-125/134a/600a/600/601a (50.5/47.0/0.9/1.0/0.6)

A1

6.2

23,000

100

990

R-428A

zeotrope

R-125/143a/290/600a (77.5/20.0/0.6/1.9)

A1

23

84,000

370

1,000

R-429A

zeotrope

R-E170/152a/600a (60.0/10.0/30.0)

A3

0.81

6,300

13

3.2

25,000

83.8

1,000

R-430A

zeotrope

R-152a/600a (76.0/24.0)

A3

1.3

8,000

21

5.2

32,000

44.0

1,000

R-431A

zeotrope

R-290/152a (71.0/29.0)

A3

0.68

5,500

11

2.7

22,000

38.6

1,000

R-432A

zeotrope

R-1270/E170 (80.0/20.0)

A3

0.13

1,200

2.1

2.4

22,000

39.2

550

R-433A

zeotrope

R-1270/290 (30.0/70.0)

A3

0.34

3,100

5.5

2.4

20,000

32.4

760

R-433B

zeotrope

R-1270/290 (5.0-95.0)

A3

0.39

3,500

6.3

2.0

18,000

32.1

950

R-433C

zeotrope

R-1270/290 (25.0-75.0)

A3

0.41

3,700

6.5

2.0

18,000

83.8

790

R-435A

zeotrope

R-E170/152a (80.0/20.0)

A3

1.1

8,500

17

4.3

34,000

68.2

1,000

R-436A

zeotrope

R-290/600a (56.0/44.0)

A3

0.50

4,000

8.1

2.0

16,000

32.2

1,000

R-436B

zeotrope

R-290/600a (52.0/48.0)

A3

0.51

4,000

8.2

2.0

16,000

32.7

1,000

R-437A

zeotrope

R-125/134a/600/601 (19.5/78.5/1.4/0.6)

A1

5.1

19,000

82

990

R-439A

zeotrope

R-32/125/600a (50.0/47.0/3.0)

A2

4.7

26,000

76

18.9

104,000

303.3

1,000

R-440A

zeotrope

R-290/134a/152a (0.6/1.6/97.8)

A2

1.9

12,000

31

7.8

46,000

124.7

1,000

R-441A

zeotrope

R-170/290/600a/600 (3.1/54.8/6.0/36.1)

A3

0.39

3,200

6.3

2.0

16,000

31.7

1,000

R-443A

zeotrope

R-1270/290/600a (55.0/40.0/5.0)

A3

0.19

1,700

3.1

2.2

20,000

35.6

640

R-444A

zeotrope

R-32/152a/1234ze(E) (12.0/5.0/83.0)

A2L

5.1

21,000

81

19.9

82,000

324.8

850

R-444B

zeotrope

R-32/152a/1234ze(E) (41.5/10.0/48.5)

A2L

4.3

23,000

69

17.3

93,000

277.3

930

R-445A

zeotrope

R-744/134a/1234ze(E) (6.0/9.0/85.0)

A2L

4.2

16,000

67

21.7

63,000

347.4

930

R-446A

zeotrope

R-32/1234ze(E)/600 (68.0/29.0/3.0)

A2L

2.5

16,000

39

13.5

62,000

217.4

960

R-447A

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234ze(E) (68.0/3.5/28.5)

A2L

2.6

16,000

42

18.9

65,000

303.5

960

R-447B

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234ze(E) (68.0/8.0/24.0)

A2L

23

16,000

42

20.6

121,000

312.7

970

R-448A

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234yf/134a/1234ze(E) (26.0/26.0/20.0/21.0/7.0)

A1

24

110,000

390

860

R-449A

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234yf/134a (24.3/24.7/25.3/25.7)

A1

23

100,000

370

840

R-451A

zeotrope

R-1234yf/134a (89.8/10.2)

A2L

5.3

18,000

81

20.3

70,000

326.6

530

R-451B

zeotrope

R-1234yf/134a (88.8/11.2)

A2L

5.3

18,000

81

20.3

70,000

326.6

530

R-452A

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234yf (11.0/59.0/30.0)

A1

27

100,000

440

790

R-452B

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234yf (67.0/7.0/26.0)

A2L

4.8

30,000

77

19.3

119,000

310.5

870

R-452C

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234yf (12.5/61.0/26.5)

A1

27

100,000

430

810

R-454A

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf (35.0/65.0)

A2L

3.2

16,000

52

18.3

63,000

293.9

690

R-454B

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf (68.9/31.1)

A2L

3.1

19,000

49

22.0

77,000

352.6

850

R-454C

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf (21.5/78.5)

A2L

4.4

19,000

71

18.0

62,000

289.5

620

R-455A

zeotrope

R-744/32/1234yf (3.0/21.5/75.5)

A2L

4.9

22,000

79

26.9

118,000

432.1

650

R-457A

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf/152a (18.0/70.0/12.0)

A2L

3.4

15,000

54

13.5

60,000

216.3

650

R-457B

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf/152a (35.0/55.0/10.0)

A2L

3.7

19,000

59

14.9

76,000

239

730

R-459A

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf/1234ze(E) (68.0/26.0/6.0)

A2L

4.3

27,000

69

17.4

107,000

278.7

870

R-459B

zeotrope

R-32/1234yf/1234ze(E) (21.0/69.0/10.0)

A2L

30

25,000

92

23.3

99,000

373.5

640

R-460A

zeotrope

R-32/125/134a/1234ze(E) (12.0/52.0/14.0/22.0)

A1

24

92,000

380

950

R-460C

zeotrope

R-32/125/134a/1234ze(E) (2.5/52.5/46.0/49.0)

A1

20

73,000

310

900

R-462A

zeotrope

R-32/125/143a/134a/600 (9.0/42.0/2.0/44.0/3.0)

A2

3.9

16,000

62

16.6

105,000

265.8

1,000

R-464A

zeotrope

R-32/125/1234ze(E)/227ea (27.0/27.0/40.0/6.0)

A1

27

120,000

430

930

R-465A

zeotrope

R-32/290/1234yf (21.0/7.9/71.1)

A2

2.5

12,000

40

10.0

98,000

160.9

660

R-466A

zeotrope

R-32/125/13I1 (49.0/11.5/39.5)

A1

6.2

30,000

99

860

R-467A

zeotrope

R-32/125/134a/600a (22.0/5.0/72.4/0.6)

A2L

6.7

31,000

110

1,000

R-468A

zeotrope

R-1132a/32/1234yf (3.5/21.5/75.0)

A2L

4.1

16,00

66

610

R-469A

zeotrope

R-744/32/125 (35.0/32.5/32.5)

A1

8

53,000

1,600

R-470A

zeotrope

R-744/32/125/134a/1234ze(E)/227ea

(10.0/17.0/19.0/7.0/44.0/3.0)

A1

17

77,00

270

1,100

R-470B

zeotrope

R-744/32/125/134a/1234ze(E)/227ea

(10.0/11.5/11.5/3.0/57.0/7.0)

A1

16

72,000

270

1,100

R-471A

zeotrope

R-1234ze(E )/227ea/1336mzz(E ) (78.7/4.3/17.0)

A1

9.7

31,000

160

710

R-472A

zeotrope

R-744/32/134a (69.0/12.0/19.0)

A1

4.5

35,000

72

2,700

R-500d

azeotrope

R-12/152a (73.8/26.2)

A1

7.4

29,000

120

1,000

R-501

azeotrope

R-22/12 (75.0/25.0)

A1

13

54,000

210

1,000

R-502d

azeotrope

R-22/115 (48.8/51.2)

A1

21

73,000

330

1,000

R-503d

azeotrope

R-23/13 (40.1/59.9)

—

—

—

—

1,000

R-504e

azeotrope

R-32/115 (48.2/51.8)

—

28

140,000

450

1,000

R-507A

azeotrope

R-125/143a (50.0/50.0)

A1

32

130,000

510

1,000

R-509A

azeotrope

R-22/218 (44.0/56.0)

A1

24

75,000

380

1,000

R-510A

azeotrope

R-E170/600a (88.0/12.0)

A3

0.87

7,300

14

3.5

29,000

56.1

1,000

R-511A

azeotrope

R-290/E170 (95.0/5.0)

A3

0.59

5,300

9.5

2.4

21,000

38.0

1,000

R-512A

azeotrope

R-134a/152a (5.0/95.0)

A2

1.9

11,000

31

7.7

45,000

123.9

1,000

R-515A

azeotrope

R-1234ze(E)/227ea (88.0/12.0)

A1

19

63,000

300

810

R-515B

azeotrope

R-1234ze(E)/227ea (91.1/8.9)

A1

18

61,000

290

810

R-516A

azeotrope

R-1234yf/134a/152a (77.5/8.5/14.0)

A2

3.2

13,000

52

13.1

50,000

210.1

590

R-600

CH3CH2CH2CH3

butane

A3

0.15

1,000

2.4

3.0

20,000

48

1,000

R-600a

CH(CH3)2CH3

2-methylpropane (isobutane)

A3

0.59

4,000

9.6

2.4

16,000

38

1,000

R-601

CH3CH2CH2 CH2CH3

pentane

A3

0.18

1,000

2.9

2.2

12,000

35

600

R-601a

(CH3)2CHCH2CH3

2-methylbutane (isopentane)

A3

0.18

1,000

2.9

2.4

13,000

38

600

R-717

NH3

ammonia

B2L

0.014

320

0.22

7.2

167,000

116

25

R-1130(E)

CHCl=CHCl

trans-1,2-dichloroethene

B2

0.25

1,000

4

16

65,000

258

200

R-1132a

CF2=CH2

1,1-difluoroethylene

A2

2.0

13,000

33

8.1

50,000

131

500

R-1150

CH2=CH2

ethene (ethylene)

A3

—

—

—

2.2

31,000

36

200

R-1224yd(Z)

CF3CF=CHCl

(Z)-1-chloro-2,3,3,3-tetrafluoroethylene

A1

23

60,000

370

1,000

R-1234yf

CF3CF=CH2

2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene

A2L

4.7

16,000

75

18.0

62,000

289

500

R-1234ze(E)

CF3CH=CHF

trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene

A2L

4.7

16,000

76

18.8

65,000

303

800

R-1270

CH3CH=CH2

Propene (propylene)

A3

0.1

1,000

1.7

500

R-1336mzz(E)

CF3CHCHCF3

trans-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexaflouro-2-butene

A1

3.0

7,200

48

400

R-1336mzz(Z)

CF3CHCHCF3

cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexaflouro-2-butene

A1

5.2

13,000

84

500

a. Degrees of hazard are for health, fire, and reactivity, respectively, in accordance with NFPA 704.

b. Reduction to 1-0-0 is allowed if analysis satisfactory to the code official shows that the maximum concentration for a rupture or full loss of refrigerant charge would not exceed the IDLH, considering both the refrigerant quantity and room volume.

c. Class 1 ozone depleting substance; prohibited for new installations.

d. Occupational Exposure Limit based on the OSHA PEL, ACGIH TLV-TWA, the TERA WEEL or consistent value on a time-weighed average (TWA) basis (unless noted C for ceiling) for an 8 hr/d and 40 hr/wk.

17. Change Section 1104.3.1 of the IMC to read:

1104.3.1 Air conditioning for human comfort. High probability systems used for human comfort shall use Group A1 or A2L refrigerant.

Exceptions:

1. Listed equipment for residential occupancies containing a maximum of 6.6 pounds (3 kg) of refrigerant.

2. Listed equipment for commercial occupancies containing a maximum of 22 pounds (10 kg) of refrigerant.

3. Industrial occupancies.

18. Change Section 1104.3.2 of the IMC to read:

1104.3.2 Group A3 and B3 refrigerants. Group A3 and B3 refrigerants shall not be used except where approved.

Exceptions: This section does not apply to:

1. Laboratories where the floor area per occupant is not less than 100 square feet (9.3 m2).

2. Listed self-contained systems having a maximum of 0.331 pounds (150 g) of Group A3 refrigerant.

3. Self-contained systems listed per UL 60335-2-89 having a maximum of 1.1 pounds (500g) of Group A3 refrigerant.

4. Industrial occupancies.

5. Equipment listed for and used in residential occupancies containing a maximum of 6.6 pounds (3 kg) of Group A2 or B2 refrigerant.

6. Equipment listed for and used in commercial occupancies containing a maximum of 22 pounds (10 kg) of Group A2 or B2 refrigerant.

19. Delete Table 1104.3.2 of the IMC.

20. Delete the exception to Section 1106.3 of the IMC and change Section 1106.3 of the IMC to read:

1106.3 Class 2 and Class 3 refrigerants. Where refrigerants of Groups A2, A3, B2, and B3 are used, the machinery room shall conform to the Class I, Division 2, hazardous location classification requirements of NFPA 70.

21. Delete the exception to Section 1106.4 and change Section 1106.4 of the IMC to read:

1106.4 Group A2L and B2L refrigerant. Machinery rooms for Group A2L and Group B2L refrigerant shall comply with Sections 1106.4.1 through 1106.4.3.

22. Change Section 1106.4.1 to the IMC to read:

1106.4.1 Elevated temperature. Open flame-producing devices or continuously operating hot surfaces over 1290 °F (700 °C) shall not be permanently installed in the room

23. Change Section 1106.4.2 of the IMC to read:

1106.4.2 Refrigerant detector. In addition to the requirements of Section 1105.3, refrigerant detectors shall signal an alarm and activate the ventilation system in accordance with the response time specified in Table 1106.4.2.

24. Replace Table 1106.4.2 of the IMC with the following:

Table 1106.4.2 GROUP A2L and B2L DETECTOR ACTIVATION

Activation Level

Maximum Response Time (seconds)

ASHRAE 15 Ventilation Level

Alarm Reset

Alarm Type

Less than or equal to the OEL in Table 1103.1

300

1

Automatic

Trouble

Less than or equal to the refrigerant concentration level in Table 1103.1

15

2

Manual

Emergency

25. Change Section 1106.4.3 of the IMC to read:

1106.4.3 Mechanical Ventilation. The machinery room shall have a mechanical ventilation system complying with ASHRAE 15.

26. Add the following standards to the list of referenced standards in Chapter 15 of the IMC:

Standard Reference Number

Title

UL 484-2019

Standard for Room Air Conditioners

UL/CSA 60335-2-40-2019

Household and Similar Electrical Appliances-Safety-Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air-Conditioners and Dehumidifiers

UL/CSA 60335-2-89-2021

Household and Similar Electrical Appliances—Safety—Part 2-89: Particular Requirements for Commercial Refrigerating Appliances and Ice-Makers with an Incorporated or Remote Refrigerant Unit or Motor-Compressor

27. Delete the following standards from the list of referenced standards in Chapter 15 of the IMC:

Standard Reference Number

Title

UL 484-2014

Standard for Room Air Conditioners

UL/CSA 60335-2-40-2017

Household and Similar Electrical Appliances-Safety-Part 2-40: Particular Requirements for Electrical Heat Pumps, Air-Conditioners and Dehumidifiers

UL/CSA 60335-2-89-2017

Household and Similar Electrical Appliances—Safety—Part 2-89: Particular Requirements for Commercial Refrigerating Appliances and Ice-Makers with an Incorporated or Remote Refrigerant Unit or Motor-Compressor

UL 109—97

Tube Fittings for Flammable and Combustible Fluids, Refrigeration Service and Marine Use

UL 207—2009

Refrigerant-containing Components and Accessories, Nonelectrical - with revisions through June 2014

E. Add Section 2801.1.4 to the IBC to read:

2801.1.4 Changes to the IFGC. The following changes shall be made to the IFGC:

1. Change Section 301.1 of the IFGC to read:

301.1 Scope. This code shall apply to the installation of fuel gas piping systems, fuel gas utilization equipment, and related accessories as follows:

1. Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of delivery to the connections with gas utilization equipment. (See "point of delivery.")

2. Systems with an operating pressure of 125 psig (862 kPa gauge) or less.

Piping systems for gas-air mixtures within the flammable range with an operating pressure of 10 psig (69 kPa gauge) or less.

LP-Gas piping systems with an operating pressure of 20 psig (140 kPa gauge) or less.

3. Piping systems requirements shall include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, and inspection.

4. Requirements for gas utilization equipment and related accessories shall include installation, combustion, and ventilation air and venting.

This code shall not apply to the following:

1. Portable LP-Gas equipment of all types that are not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.

2. Installation of farm equipment such as brooders, dehydrators, dryers, and irrigation equipment.

3. Raw material (feedstock) applications except for piping to special atmosphere generators.

4. Oxygen-fuel gas cutting and welding systems.

5. Industrial gas applications using gases such as acetylene and acetylenic compounds, hydrogen, ammonia, carbon monoxide, oxygen, and nitrogen.

6. Petroleum refineries, pipeline compressor or pumping stations, loading terminals, compounding plants, refinery tank farms, and natural gas processing plants.

7. Integrated chemical plants or portions of such plants where flammable or combustible liquids or gases are produced by chemical reactions or used in chemical reactions.

8. LP-Gas installations at utility gas plants.

9. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) installations.

10. Fuel gas piping in power and atomic energy plants.

11. Proprietary items of equipment, apparatus, or instruments such as gas generating sets, compressors, and calorimeters.

12. LP-Gas equipment for vaporization, gas mixing, and gas manufacturing.

13. Temporary LP-Gas piping for buildings under construction or renovation that is not to become part of the permanent piping system.

14. Installation of LP-Gas systems for railroad switch heating.

15. Installation of LP-Gas and compressed natural gas (CNG) systems on vehicles.

16. Except as provided in Section 401.1.1, gas piping, meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurtenances used by the serving gas supplier in the distribution of gas, other than undiluted LP-Gas.

17. Building design and construction, except as specified herein.

2. Change Section 301.3 of the IFGC to read:

301.3 Listed and labeled. Appliances regulated by this code shall be listed and labeled for the application in which they are used unless otherwise approved in accordance with Section 112. The approval of unlisted appliances in accordance with Section 112 shall be based on approved engineering evaluation.

3. Add Section 404.11.5 to the IFGC to read:

404.11.5 Coating application. Joints in gas piping systems shall not be coated prior to testing and approval.

4. Change Item 6 of Section 410.2 of the IFGC to read (Items 1 through 5 and Item 7 remain):

6. Means shall be provided downstream of the MP regulator for the connection of a pressure measuring instrument and shall be positioned to allow connection of a pressure measuring instrument. Such means shall be permitted to be a dedicated test port on a regulator, gas control, or manifold or a plugged tee fitting or plugged manifold port.

5. Change Section 614.9.2 of the IFGC to read:

614.9.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be supported at 4-foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in place. The insert end of the duct shall extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners that protrude into the inside of the duct.

Where dryer exhaust ducts are enclosed in wall or ceiling cavities, such cavities shall allow the installation of the duct without deformation.

6. Add the following standards to the list of referenced standards in Chapter 8 of the IFGC:

Standard Reference Number

Title

ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26-18

Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST)

7. Delete the following standards from the list of referenced standards in Chapter 8 of the IFGC:

Standard Reference Number

Title

ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26-16

Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST)