Construction Types and Occupancy Classifications

Questions and Answers

When an inspector is reviewing plans for the construction of a new structure, what two questions should be asked?

What color will the building be?

How and from what materials will the building be constructed? (correct)

What is the building's purpose or intended use? (correct)

How will the building be painted?

When the inspector is reviewing plans for a renovation, which two other questions need to be asked?

Have either the purpose or construction materials changed since the last inspection? (correct)

What affect will the changes have on fire and life safety provisions? (correct)

Is the building compliant with current codes?

When was the last inspection performed?

What are the majority of the building codes based on?

The NFPA, International Code Council (ICC), or Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC).

What are common building elements used in structures in US construction?

Structural Frame, Load bearing walls (interior and exterior), Exterior and Interior nonbearing walls and partitions, Floor and Roof construction. Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction is composed of only noncombustible or limited combustible materials?

Type I. Signup and view all the answers

The small amount of combustible materials allowed in Type I construction deal with?

Some types of roof coverings, wood trim, finished floor and wall coverings. Signup and view all the answers

What is the incorrect reference to Type I construction?

Fireproof. Signup and view all the answers

What can compromise the fire resistance and life safety of a Type I structure?

The combustible materials that the owner/occupant places in structure such as furniture, wall and window coverings, stock, and merchandise. Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction is composed of material that will not contribute to fire development and spread?

Type II construction. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how a typical structure would be built in a Type II application.

Structure with metal framing members, metal cladding, or concrete-block construction of walls with metal deck roof supported by unprotected open-web steel joists. Signup and view all the answers

What combustible materials may sometimes get incorporated in Type II construction?

Combustible roof systems, flooring, display areas, balconies, or ornamental wall coverings. Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction is used to build churches, schools, apartment dwellings, and mercantile structures?

Type III construction. Signup and view all the answers

What are the outside and inside walls made of in Type III construction?

The outside walls are made of noncombustible materials and the inside walls are made of any material permitted by code. Signup and view all the answers

Can you find unprotected steel and aluminum framing in Type III construction?

True Signup and view all the answers

When inspecting Type III structures, what should the inspector look for?

Voids inside wood trusses, renovated structures with large voids, load carrying capacity changes, and potential changes in the original use. Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction is referred to as heavy timber construction?

Type IV. Signup and view all the answers

All building materials made of wood in Type IV construction must adhere to minimum dimension sizes. Anything used not conforming to these specifications is considered ______.

noncompliant Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Construction Plan Inspection

Inspectors must ask two key questions when reviewing plans for a new structure: the building's purpose or intended use, and the materials and methods of construction.
For renovations or new occupancy permits, inspectors should inquire if the building's purpose or materials have changed since the last inspection and how these changes impact fire and life safety provisions.

Building Codes Foundation

Major building codes are typically based on guidelines from established organizations such as NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), the International Code Council (ICC), or the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC).

Common Building Elements

Typical elements in US construction include the structural frame, load-bearing walls (interior and exterior), nonbearing walls, and floor and roof construction.

Type I Construction

Type I construction consists exclusively of noncombustible or limited combustible materials, offering maximum safety with high fire-resistance ratings.
Common materials include reinforced concrete and protected steel frame, designed to maintain stability during fires and limit fire spread.
Minor combustible materials permitted in Type I include specific roof coverings, wood trim, and finished interior surfaces.

Misconceptions about Type I

The term "fireproof" is a misconception when referring to Type I construction, highlighting the importance of accurate terminology.

Risks in Type I Structures

Fire resistance and life safety in Type I buildings can be compromised by the presence of combustible materials introduced by occupants, such as furniture and decorative items.

Type II Construction

Composed of materials that do not contribute to fire development but do not meet Type I standards; suitable for low fire risk environments with appropriate fire-suppression systems.
Typical constructions may feature metal framing or concrete-block walls with metal decking roofs supported by unprotected steel joists.

Usage of Combustible Materials in Type II

Type II construction might incorporate combustible systems, such as certain roofing, flooring, and exterior decorative elements.

Type III Construction

Predominantly used for buildings like churches, schools, and apartment dwellings; combines noncombustible exterior walls with code-approved interior materials.
Exterior walls are often made with brick or concrete, while interior frameworks may utilize wood or metal studs.

Inspection Considerations for Type III

Inspectors should be vigilant for voids in wood truss systems, potential changes in load-carrying capacity due to renovations, and structural shifts from original usage.

Type IV Construction (Heavy Timber)

This construction type features noncombustible exterior walls and solid or laminated wood interior elements without concealed spaces, utilizing fire-retardant-treated wood.
All wood materials must meet specific dimension and fire-resistance standards.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the key questions inspectors must ask when reviewing construction and renovation plans, specifically regarding building use and materials. Test your knowledge on the essential elements of construction types and occupancy classifications throughout Chapter 4. Enhance your understanding of fire safety and building regulations.