California IDEX Practice Exam

What should a designer inform a client about replacing an entrance in an old, unsprinklered building to meet current CBC requirements?

1. The doors need to be widened

2. The glass doors should be replaced with solid doors

3. The doors will have to be replaced with 20-min fire-rated doors

4. No changes are required

The correct answer is: The doors will have to be replaced with 20-min fire-rated doors

The correct approach is to inform the client that replacing an entrance in an old, unsprinklered building must adhere to current California Building Code (CBC) requirements, which include fire safety measures. Specifically, the requirement to install 20-minute fire-rated doors is crucial for protecting occupants and controlling the spread of fire, especially in buildings without sprinkler systems. These types of doors provide a barrier that helps ensure safe egress and limit potential fire damage. The other aspects of door replacement, like widening doors or replacing glass with solid doors, might be relevant in specific contexts but do not address the fundamental requirement tied to fire safety in unsprinklered buildings. Therefore, making sure the entrance meets these fire-rated door specifications aligns with necessary compliance and enhances overall safety.