| Published every three years and developed using an open consensus process in accordance with ANSI, the Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC) is widely adopted by jurisdictions throughout the United States. It contains requirements for the installation and maintenance of heating, ventilation, cooling and refrigeration systems.
Designated as an American National Standard, the 2003 Uniform Mechanical Code was developed using ANSIs consensus procedures. This process brings together volunteers representing a variety of viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus on mechanical code issues.
The Uniform Mechanical Code is an essential component of the C3 (the Comprehensive Consensus Codes) set, a collection of ANSI-accredited documents from respected sources including NFPA, WFCA, and ASHRAE.
Chapter 5 includes complete kitchen hoods and grease duct systems installation requirements; Chapter 7 contains updated methods of supplying combustion air; and Chapter 9 provides extensive equipment requirements.
Uniform Mechanical Code Changes
Included in the revisions to the 2003 Uniform Mechanical Code are the following: Chapter 16 was moved to Chapter 17 to make it consistent with the wording in Section 301.1.3 of the Uniform Plumbing Code. Chapter 5 has undergone extensive revision to make it consistent with the language used in NFPA 96: Standard for Commercial Kitchen Equipment, including the addition of many new definitions to Section 502.0. Other changes to this chapter will make the Uniform Mechanical Code consistent with other NFPA standards. Major changes to Chapter 6 include the addition of new tables to include references to SMACNA tables and the requirements currently used in modern rectangular duct construction up to 2-inch water gauge static pressure, the replacement of Table 6-1 from the 2000 Uniform Mechanical Code with the new SMACNA tables, and the replacement of Uniform Mechanical Code Standard 6-1 with UL 181, among other changes.
Uniform Mechanical Code Chapter 7 was extensively revised and major portions replaced with language and figures from NFPA 54 to correlate the Uniform Mechanical Code with the standard for ease of comparison between the two documents. Uniform Mechanical Code Chapter 8 has been replaced with new language, figures and tables from NFPA 54, Chapters 10 and 13. Some tables were also moved from the 2000 Uniform Mechanical Code Appendix C into the 20003 Uniform Mechanical Code Chapter 8.
Chapter 13 was revised by replacing previous language with text, figures and tables from Chapters 1, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 12 of NFPA 54; Appendix B in the 2000 Uniform Mechanical Code, and sections in NFPA 501A. Three important changes include: Fuel gas piping systems are limited to 5 psi, removal of the specific prohibition against liquefied petroleum appliances in a pit or basement, and the addition of CSST fuel piping systems.
Please note that this is just a quick highlight of the many changes made to the 2003 Uniform Mechanical Code.
To enable users to easily note changes from one code edition to the next, IAPMO has placed indicators in the margins of the Uniform Mechanical Code text. An arrow indicates text has been deleted; a vertical line in the margins indicates changed or added text. References indicated in brackets represent text that has been extracted from another document. Information on referenced publications can be found in Chapter 17 of the Uniform Mechanical Code.
About IAPMO
Established in 1926, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) is dedicated to the protection of the public's health and safety through the development and maintenance of the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Uniform Mechanical Code. |
