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What is NYC BC § 1026.2?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the requirements for separation between buildings or refuge areas connected by a horizontal exit, specifying the need for fire walls, fire barriers, or horizontal assemblies with a minimum fire-resistance rating of 2 hours. Applies to building owners responsible for fire safety compliance in structures with horizontal exits.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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1026.2 Separation.

BC § 1026.2

The separation between buildings or refuge areas connected by a horizontal exit shall be provided by a fire wall complying with Section 706; or by a fire barrier complying with Section 707 or a horizontal assembly complying with Section 711, or both. The minimum fire-resistance rating of the separation shall be 2 hours. Opening protectives in horizontal exits shall also comply with Section 716. Duct and air transfer openings in a fire wall or fire barrier that serves as a horizontal exit shall also comply with Section 717. The horizontal exit separation shall extend vertically through all levels of the building unless floor assemblies have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours with no unprotected openings. Exception: A fire-resistance rating is not required at horizontal exits between a building area and an above-grade pedestrian walkway constructed in accordance with Section 3104, provided that the distance between connected buildings is more than 20 feet (6096 mm). Horizontal exits constructed as fire barriers shall be continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall so as to divide completely the floor served by the horizontal exit.

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