Under most common interpretations of the  International Fire Code (IFC) cold storage facilities must put smoke vents in place to allow for the escape of smoke during a fire. This requirement creates significant challenges for refrigerated facility design, where creating holes in the outer shell of a cold store undermines the ability to maintain cold storage temperatures.  To address this problem, the GCCA/CEBA Construction Codes Committee formed a Task Force to examine the requirements for smoking and heat ventilation within the International Fire Code (IFC). After reviewing Section 910.1 of the current IFC, the Task Force determined that the provision was ineffective and that fire reduction and smoke dispersal could be achieved in other ways.

In order to make an effective case  GCCA partnered with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) to propose a code change, helping members navigate the complexities of the building code process. The proposed change was presented at the International Fire Code hearing in April 2024 and was approved as submitted. During the public comment period from April to September, no objections or comments were raised.

With no public opposition, the final step in the process is an online vote by code officials, which will take place in the second quarter of 2025. Once approved, the change will be officially published in the 2026 editions of both the International Fire Code and the International Building Code. However, members can begin using this code change now to inform building officials or fire marshals overseeing projects in their jurisdiction.

This is a positive step forward for GCCA and CEBA members, for code compliance of cold storage facilities equipped with fire prevention and smoke dispersal systems that do not undermine the thermal properties of a cold store design.

For more information or to access the approved code change, Jeff Greenwald, Manager of Credentialing Programs, is available to assist.

Published Date

September 17, 2024

Topic

Cold Chain Development, Design Build

Region

Africa, Asia-Pacific, Australia, Canada, Central & South America, Europe, Mexico, United States

Sector

Controlled Environment Building, GCCA Transportation, GCCA Warehouse, Global Cold Chain Foundation