Section Table 601/Fire-Resistance Rating Requirements
IBC Table 601 establishes minimum fire-resistance ratings for structural elements based on construction type.
Table 601 specifies fire-resistance ratings in hours for building elements based on the construction type (Types IA, IB, IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB, IV, VA, VB). Ratings range from 0 hours (Type VB) to 3 hours (Type IA structural frame). The table covers the structural frame, bearing walls (exterior and interior), nonbearing exterior walls, floor construction, and roof construction.
Why this section exists
Fire-resistance ratings ensure that structural elements maintain their integrity during a fire for long enough to allow occupant evacuation and firefighter operations. Higher-risk buildings (larger, taller, more occupants) require higher construction types with greater fire resistance. The construction type, determined by Table 601, cascades into nearly every other fire protection decision in the building design.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers verify that the construction type stated on the drawings matches the fire-resistance ratings shown for structural elements in the wall sections, floor assemblies, and structural details. They check that every rated assembly references a tested design (UL, GA, or other listing) and that the rating meets or exceeds the minimum from Table 601.
Common violations
Related IBC requirements
Section 602 defines the five construction types. Table 602 covers exterior wall fire-resistance requirements based on fire separation distance. Section 706 covers fire wall requirements. Chapter 7 as a whole addresses fire-resistance-rated construction.