2013 IRC Code Change Proposal RB459

Buckley Rumford Fireplaces
2013 IRC Code Change Proposal RB459
3/22/13

RB459 - 13
R1004.5
Proponent: Bob Eugene, Underwriters Laboratories Inc, UL (robert.eugene@ul.com), David Hall CFM, Georgetown Texas representing the ICC PMG Code Action Committee (dave.hall@georgetown.org)
THIS CODE CHANGE WILL BE HEARD BY THE IRC-PLUMBING/MECHANICAL COMMITTEE. SEE THE TENTATIVE HEARING ORDER FOR THIS COMMITTEE.
Add new text as follows:
R1004.5 Gasketed fireplace doors. A gasketed fireplace door shall not be installed on a factory-built fireplace except where the fireplace system has been specifically tested, listed and labeled for such use in accordance with UL 127.
Reason:
(Eugene) Consistent with action on Proposal M163-12 in Group A codes.
(Hall) Because of requirements in the IECC that require all fireplaces to be provided with gasketed doors, a great deal of controversy has resulted. Most factory-built fireplaces are not tested for use with sealed glass doors and installing such doors on fireplaces that are not tested for these doors could cause overheating of the fireplace resulting in a fire hazard. Without testing, the effect of the doors will be an unknown. This text was approved for the 2015 IMC.
This proposal is submitted by the ICC Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas Code Action Committee (PMGCAC) The PMGCAC was established by the ICC Board of Directors to pursue opportunities to improve and enhance an assigned International Code or portion thereof. This includes both the technical aspects of the codes as well as the code content in terms of scope and application of referenced standards. Since its inception in July, 2011, the PMGCAC has held 2 open meetings, multiple conference calls and multiple workgroup calls which included members of the PMGCAC. Interested parties also participated in all of the meetings and conference calls to discuss and debate the proposed changes.
Cost Impact: The code change proposal will not increase the cost of construction.
RB458-13
MACS SUPPORT. Gasketed or tight-fitting fireplace doors may create a fire hazard for any fireplace.
Public Hearing: Committee: AS - Heard with RE86
Assembly: ASF AMF DF