Codes and standards insights:
- National codes from organizations including NFPA, ASHRAE and the International Energy Code, along with local mandates influence K-12 building designs.
- Air quality codes are specifically important in schools to reduce airborne illnesses.
Respondents:
- Raquel Deschler, PE, Project Manager, RMF Engineering, Charleston, S.C.
- Scott Peck, PE, Vice President, Peter Basso and Associates, Troy, Mich.
- Zachary Schneider, PE, LEED AP, CxA, LC, Partner/Electrical Engineer, CMTA, Inc, Louisville, Ky.
Please explain some of the codes, standards and guidelines you commonly use during the project’s design process. Which codes/standards should engineers be most aware of?
Scott Peck: There are several electrical codes and standards that are commonly used. NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC), is by far the most commonly used, so engineers should be the most familiar with NEC. However, they also should be aware of all codes that a particular project must comply with, including NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings and state level codes.
Zachary Schneider: During the design process, we follow various codes, standards and guidelines based on the project’s location. Each state – and even specific counties or cities – has its own codes, though most are based on national standards like the NFPA, NEC, the International Building Code, ASHRAE, and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) Engineers must understand the specific codes for their project, as requirements can vary. For example, some states still use IECC versions that are nearly 20 years old.
It’s important to remember that meeting code is the minimum requirement. While acceptable in some cases, the best designs often exceed these standards for better performance, safety or efficiency. Engineers should stay updated on evolving codes and the requirements of each project’s jurisdiction.
What new code/standard have local jurisdictions adopted to meet COVID-19, RSV or other health guidelines? What updates do you anticipate if none have been adopted yet?
Raquel Deschler: School districts were using the indoor air quality procedure from ASHRAE Standard 62.1: Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality long before COVID. This method allows you to offset the amount of outside air circulation needed by using an air purification system, such as bipolar ionization, in lieu of the traditional ventilation rate procedure (VRP). This was, and still is, an important energy saving strategy for the districts. After COVID, the focus has shifted to achieving both meeting or exceeding traditional VRP methods while also providing additional filtration systems above the standard requirements.
How are codes, standards or guidelines for energy efficiency impacting the design of K-12 schools?
Zachary Schneider: The adoption of the latest IECC by more states is driving significant changes in school design. The latest IECC emphasizes improved lighting design, better daylighting strategies and plug load controls, among other measures. These updates are helping schools enhance energy efficiency throughout their buildings, creating more sustainable and cost-effective learning environments.
What are some of the biggest challenges when considering code compliance and designing or working with existing buildings?
Scott Peck: When working in existing buildings it is not uncommon to come across installations that are not compliant with the current codes. Equipment for a system you are not upgrading or renovating is generally “grandfathered in” and no changes are needed. The problem becomes a much larger issue when there are existing code compliance issues with a system you are modifying or adding to. There is the saying, “if you touch it, you own it;” meaning if you are modifying or adding to a system you must bring at least that part of the system up to current codes. This can snowball and lead to many required changes that may or may not have been known when the budget was established.
Zachary Schneider: Establishing a strong working relationship with the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is essential when undertaking a renovation in an existing building. Renovation projects often present unique challenges that may not be explicitly addressed in code references. Collaborating closely with the AHJ through site visits, identifying specific issues and developing solutions that balance code compliance with client needs has proved to be an effective and valuable approach.
