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

The IFC 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 IFC 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 allow people from exiting a building safely and orderly in the event of a building evacuation. As well, the security system should not hinder the operations of the first responders as they try to perform their duties in the event of an emergency.

For example, rules for installing loss prevention security components such as a delayed egress magnetic locking system are covered in chapters 4 and 10 of the IFC. If not installed correctly these security measures could possibly hinder first responders in the event of an emergency.

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

101.2 Scope. This code establishes regulations affecting or relating to structures, processes, premises and safeguards regarding all of the following:

1. The hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices.
2. Conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises.
3. Fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
4. Matters related to the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression or alarm systems.
5. Conditions affecting the safety of fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and premises, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.