Our code consultants were retained to perform a code equivalency analysis for a client that owns and operates hotels. These hotels are typically three stories tall and of wood frame construction. Each unit is made up of sleeping, cooking, and sanitary accommodations. The hotels are all protected by automatic sprinkler protection in accordance with NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R.
The cooking facilities include a small range top and oven. The AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) required that cooking appliances be protected in accordance with NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, necessitating a special hood system and fire suppression system that did not physically fit into the space provided.
Our code consultants performed an extensive code analysis including all U.S. model building codes, NFPA standards, and drafts of the International Building and Fire Codes. We contacted the NFPA 96 committee to pose the question of applicability. The committee met, discussed this case specifically, and concluded that NFPA 96 did not apply to the extended stay hotel situation. We then negotiated successfully with the AHJ to eliminate the requirement. A code analysis report was written for our client so that future situations could be addressed during the early project stages.
Value Delivered
Harrington Group’s code consultants delivered substantial value to our client by saving over $200,000 in construction costs… on each facility.
By Jeff Harrington, CEO and Founder of Harrington Group, Inc.