Intro to HVAC Mechanical Code Regulations : Exhaust Systems

 IMC Section 501: General Regulations

• Scope: Design, construction, and installation of mechanical exhaust systems, including:
  • Clothes dryers and cooking appliances
  • Hazardous exhaust systems
  • Dust, stock, and refuse conveyor systems
  • Sub-slab soil exhaust systems
  • Smoke control systems
  • Energy recovery ventilation systems
• Topics:
  • When independent systems are required
  • Exhaust discharge locations
  • Exhaust outlet protections
  • Pressure equalization methods

IMC Section 502: Required Systems

• Requirements: Exhaust systems must be provided for areas with equipment that produces dust, particles, heat, odors, fumes, spray, gas, or smoke in quantities that affect health or safety.
• Topics:
  • Exhaust inlet locations
  • Designing exhaust sources
  • General and specific hazardous material requirements
  • Ventilation exhaust for toxic liquids

IMC Section 503: Motors and Fans

• Regulations:
  • Motor and fan sizes, usage in flammable areas, and control systems setup.
  • Electrical equipment interlocks to ensure ventilation operation.
  • Location and protection of motors and fans.
  • Access for servicing and maintenance.
• Topics:
  • Spark-resistant fans
  • Equipment and appliance identification plates
  • Corrosion-resistant fan requirements

IMC Section 504: Clothes Dryer Exhaust

• Regulations:
  • Clothes dryers must be exhausted according to manufacturer instructions and convey moisture and combustion products outside the building.
• Topics:
  • Installation and cleanout access
  • Protection and required duct material and size
  • Common exhaust systems for multi-story structures

IMC Section 505: Domestic Cooking Exhaust Equipment

• Regulations:
  • Guidelines for stoves, ranges, and microwave ovens.
• Topics:
  • Domestic cooking exhaust compliance
  • Exhaust ducts discharge
  • Make-up air requirements
  • Common exhaust systems for domestic kitchens in multi-story structures

IMC Section 510: Hazardous Exhaust Systems

• Scope: Detailed regulations for hazardous exhaust systems.
• Requirements: Design and construction of duct systems for hazardous exhaust, including flammable vapors, gases, fumes, mists, and dusts, as well as toxic or corrosive materials.
• Topics:
  • Where hazardous exhaust systems are required
  • Design and operation guidelines
  • Incompatible materials design
  • Structural element penetrations
  • Fire suppression requirements
  • Duct construction

IMC Section 513: Smoke Control Systems

• Scope: Minimum requirements for design, installation, and testing of smoke control systems.
• Purpose: Provide a tenable environment for occupant evacuation or relocation.
• Topics:
  • General design requirements
  • Special inspection and test requirements
  • System type analysis
  • Smoke barrier construction methods
  • Airflow design methods
  • Exhaust methods
  • Smoke control equipment