IBC and IFC Building Codes: Their Role in Energy Efficiency
Posted on 14. Jul, 2010 by keith in Fire Safety
The International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC) typically aren’t thought of as impacting a building’s energy efficiency. But they do support energy efficient design by requiring commercial and residential R1 buildings that contain occupancy at above 75 feet from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to implement photoluminescent egress markings in their vertical exit enclosures and exit passageways. Currently, all 50 states have adopted a version of the IBC, which governs new construction, and at least 42 states have adopted a version of the IFC, which governs both new construction and existing buildings.
The primary reason behind IBC and IFC egress regulations is increasing evacuation safety, particularly concerning the safety risks associated with relying on emergency back up lighting in the event of low visibility evacuations. But by requiring owners of applicable buildings to implement photoluminescent markings to steps, handrails and handrail extensions, landing areas, obstacles, doorframes and door hardware in exit ways, the codes expose them to other photoluminescent technologies when they shop for photoluminescent markings, particularly photoluminescent exit signs.
Unlike many energy saving technologies, photoluminescent exit signs are inexpensive to implement. But they result in significant cost savings when they replace incandescent exit signs. A recent study shows that replacing 100 incandescent sign with photoluminescent signs can save a company roughly $3,700 a year in utility costs alone. If your building needs luminescent markings to improve its egress safety, chances are that you’ll purchasing them from a company that offers in photoluminescent exit signs as well. Taking some extra time to review what the signs have to offer could end up being a blessing to both your bottom line and your building’s safety.
