Applied Systems / ASO Inc. - manufacturers representativesApplied Systems / ASO Inc.

I.B.C. 2003 Education

This portion of the site is currently under development, however, we believe that our clients need to learn more about the IBC standards set forth in IBC 2003, which 48 states have adopted and implemented as LAW. This code has elements tucked with the structural code (Division 16 & 17) that shifts responsibility of mechanical and electrical systems to the mechanical engineer AND installing contractor.

THIS IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST ISSUES IN OUR INDUSTRY, AND IT'S ALMOST COMPLETELY UNKNOWN WITHIN THE NORTHWEST'S MECHANICAL COMMUNITY.

Requirements of IBC: Third party seismic certification, for mechanical and electrical system critical to the function of the building to perform it's intended purpose. This requirement states that the systems MUST survive AND operation before, during and after a major seismic event.

Seismic Event: Is determined by geography, building type, equipment location. These details can be provided by the structural engineer. It's noteworthy that Oregon and Washington fall into Zone D, near the worst case potential for maximum damage.

Third party certification: IBC does NOT allow for seismic "self" certification by manufacturers, but it must be completed by a qualified 3rd party consultant.

Equipment must be labeled: Certified equipment MUST be labeled in the factory, prior to shipment. It cannot be labeled in the field.

When: All projects permitted after the adoption of IBC 2003.

http://www.iccsafe.org/government/adoption.html

Where: Not every building is subject to this requirement. Use group 3 & 4 buildings are specifically included. Hospitals, Federal Buildings, Dept of Defense buildings, communication facilities, police and fire stations, and all facilities expected to be vital to the post seismic event recovery. Many schools or other facilities designated as emergency shelters. The local inspector may also require IBC certification on other building deemed important.

Engineers and contractors have the obligation to provide documentation and clear statements that the design and installation meet IBC 2003.

Local Enforcement is NOT optional, but is spotty in the Northwest. Many local inspectors are not yet familiar with these requirements of the code, however INSURANCE companies and LAWYERS are already causing problems for building owners for non compliance. There are 28 lawsuits now pending or progressing through the civil courts.

The IBC and the AIA have clearly stated that this requirement is not a proprietary item, any vendor can obtain this certification through rigorous computational analysis or physical testing. If no certified vendor is available, one must become certified. See the actual IBC ruling by clicking here.

To learn more about this requirement, please click here to contact an Applied System sales engineer.

IBC, what's that?

Contacting ASO:

Allen Sanders
Daniel Mitchell

Jim Krause

Tom Berger

Tanya Moore

Doug Giese