Chapter 1
Scope and Administration
Chapter 1 establishes the purpose and reach of the International Mechanical Code (IMC), which systems it governs, and the administrative framework that applies to mechanical system design and installation. Understanding this chapter sets the foundation for every subsequent chapter in the code.
Purpose and Scope (§101)
The IMC establishes minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare through proper design and installation of mechanical systems.
- The code regulates heating, ventilation, air conditioning, exhaust systems, and refrigeration systems in buildings (§101).
- Compliance with IMC provisions is required to protect building occupants and maintain system performance.
Labeled Equipment
The IMC requires that equipment, materials, and products bear the mark of an approved testing agency — this is the definition of labeled equipment.
- Labeled equipment has been affixed with a label, seal, symbol, or identifying mark from a nationally recognized testing laboratory or approved agency.
- The label indicates the equipment either meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specific purpose.
- The approving agency must maintain periodic inspection of production of the labeled items.
Ventilation of Occupied Spaces
The IMC requires that every occupied space be ventilated by natural or mechanical means.
- This baseline ventilation requirement applies broadly to all occupied spaces covered under the code.
- Specific ventilation rates and methods are governed by Chapter 4 (Ventilation) of the IMC.
Mixed Occupancy
Mixed occupancy occurs where two or more occupancies are located within the same building. The IMC addresses how mechanical system requirements apply across different occupancy classifications in a shared structure.