It is my understanding that the IBC 2015 will begin printing in June, 2014. There are some changes in that code relative to tornado shelters. A colleague that I have worked with for the past 10 years on the ICC-500 committee was kind enough to provide me with the exact language from the upcoming code. It shall read as follows:
423.3 Critical emergency operations. In areas where the shelter design wind speed for tornadoes per Figure 304.2(1) of ICC 500 is 250 MPH, 911 call stations, emergency operation centers and fire, rescue, ambulance and police stations shall have a storm shelter constructed in accordance with ICC 500.
Exception: Buildings meeting the requirements for shelter design in ICC 500.
423.4 Group E occupancies. In areas where the shelter design wind speed for tornadoes is 250 MPH per Figure 304.2(1) of ICC 500, all Group E Occupancies with an aggregate occupant load of 50 or more shall have a storm shelter constructed in accordance with ICC 500. The shelter shall be capable of housing the total occupant load of the Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
- Group E day care facilities.
- Group E occupancies accessory to places of religious worship.
- Buildings meeting the requirements for shelter design in ICC 500.
Now with that said, it does in fact have to be adopted by local jurisdiction which here in Kansas can take several years. Other jurisdictions may adopt much sooner. For my designer colleagues out there, pay heed to this revision, especially if you are dealing with projects that are being budgeted today but not designed until later, i.e. school bond issues. You could find yourself caught between a rock and a hard place.