A companion document to the 2018 International Fire Code details comprehensive commentary to the standard, ICC IFC-2018 Codes/Commentary Vols 1/2: International Fire Code, 2018—Codes And Commentary.
What is the International Fire Code?
The international Fire Code is a model code that sets minimum safety requirements for new and existing buildings, facilities, storage, and processes. In addressing fire prevention, it meets the need of providing life safety. Kept current through the review of proposed changes submitted by code enforcement officials, industry representatives, design professionals, and other interested parties, the current edition of this code is ICC IFC-2021.
You can learn more about the International Fire Code in our past post focused on the document and the changes made to the 2021 and 2018 editions.
Why Do IFC Users Need Commentary to the International Fire Code?
Numerous jurisdictions regulate IFC requirements throughout the United States. In fact, the International Fire Code is in use or adopted in 42 states, as well as the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
Considering both the need for design professionals and others involved with building construction to adhere to the International Fire Code for compliance purposes and to protect the public, there is a need to clarify its requirements and provide further guidance in a packaged, concise, and comprehensive manner. This is accomplished through the ICC IFC-2018 Commentary document.
Commentary Provided for the IFC
ICC IFC-2018 Commentary provides a convenient reference for regulations applicable to the construction of buildings and structures. The format of the Commentary includes the full text of each section, followed by the commentary applicable to that text. The commentary itself consists of discussions on the full meaning and implications of the code text, guidelines suggesting the most effective method of application, the consequences of not adhering to the code text, and illustrations to aid understanding.
It is divided into two volumes, which, in total, address all chapters of the 2018 International Fire Code. Both volumes are found in the ICC IFC-2018 Commentary document.
Users need to be careful to note, however, that the ICC IFC-2018 Commentary should be used in conjunction with the International Fire Code and not as a substitute for the code. Furthermore, the commentary is advisory only.
ICC IFC-2018 Codes/Commentary Vols 1/2: International Fire Code, 2018—Codes And Commentary is available on the ANSI Webstore.