The International Building Code (IBC) is an International Code Council (ICC) publication and is adopted in most of the US.

The IBC has a specific scope and intent. It is critical to understand the scope and intent of an ICC publication in order to know if the publication even applies to the system being installed.

The IBC relates to the security industry when it comes to ensuring that any installed premises security systems do not infringe upon the function of egress systems in place to permit people from exiting a building safely and orderly in the event of a building evacuation.

For example, rules for installing loss prevention security components such as a delayed egress magnetic locking system are covered in chapter 10 of the IBC.

Below is a sample of the IBC. See the actual IBC text at ICCSAFE.ORG for the complete code section.

101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, public health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire, explosion and other hazards, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.