This new updated edition of the 2009 International Fire Code continues to address both new and existing buildings, structures, premises and operations. The provisions for new construction are fully compatible with the other codes in the International Codes Series, and focus on the regulation of materials, operations and fire protection systems. The 2009 edition also regulates features which affect the ability of fire department personnel to gain access to and protect buildings, as well as to ensure firefighter safety.

Maintenance provisions for completed and legally occupied buildings are intended to ensure that the level of safety established during construction continues throughout the life of the building.

New to the 2009 International Fire Code:

• Retroactively, all nonsprinklered Group I-2 Occupancies will now require automatic sprinkler protection.
• Emergency responder radio coverage is required inside of buildings.
• New requirements address the use of liquid oxygen in a home health care setting.
• All requirements for existing buildings have been compiled into a new chapter.
• The 2009 International Fire Code contains new requirements for fire protection of marinas.
• The requirements for fire alarm and detection systems have been extensively revised and are now correlated to NFPA 72.
• Retroactively, all existing and new high-rise buildings will require photoluminscent exit pathway markings inside of building stair shafts.
• The 2009 International Fire Code now addresses the design and construction of pressure vessels used for the storage of hazardous materials.