The main concern that we have with this project is the "loft" that is indicated on sheet A2.  The code allows a single means of egress from the loft provided that the staff room exit is utilized and maintained as an exit.  If the main entrance/exit is only used the 100' travel distance allotment will be exceeded, thus requiring 2 exits from the loft.  (NFPA 101 38.2.4.2) The spiral stairs must be fully enclosed per NFPA 101 38.2.4.2(c)and 7.2.2.5.1.1.  This enclosure shall be 1 hour rated per NFPA 101 7.1.3.2.1 (1).  Doors in the enclosure shall be rated with closers per NFPA 101 7.1.3.2.1 (4) and 7.2.1.8.  The exit passageway leading from the enclosure to the exit on the 1st floor shall be the same rating as the stair enclosure.  NFPA 101 7.2.6.3 and 7.1.3.2.2.---- Amendment: Wednesday, September 27, 2006 3:00:50 PM   After revisiting the exit issue when a phone call was recived from the owner, the following were determined.  Per NFPA 101:38.2.4.1 Not less than 2 seperate exits shall be provided on every story.  The "loft" as indicated on sheet A2, is considered a story by definition per the Fire Code.  If a single exit is intended, please indicate which one of the code sub sections under NFPA 101 38.2.4 you intend to meet. Our review indicates that the current design does not meet the conditions of any of these alternative subsections that would allow for a single stair.  The installation of a fire alarm system, or letter from an attorney are not indicated in the Fire Code as alternatives to these exit requirement nor will they be accepted by our office as such. In addition please pay special attention to NFPA 101 7.1.5, regarding required headroom.   

IF medical gas is being piped throughout the space, instead of small portable tanks in each room please provide our office with a certification from a certified third party med gas supplier/ company with expertise in medical gas. This certification must be provided to the inspector at or prior to the final.   NFPA 1 1.15.1.