NCIDQ IDPX flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Occupant load calculation

Occupant load equals floor area divided by the occupant load factor for the use group. Factors come from the adopted building code, and the result drives egress width, exit count, and plumbing fixture requirements.

Egress width formula

Required egress width equals occupant load multiplied by the code capacity factor per component, such as stairs or level corridors. The calculated width is compared to code minimums, and the larger value governs.

Means of egress sequence

The path has three parts: exit access within the occupied space, the exit itself such as an enclosed stair or exterior door, and exit discharge leading to the public way. Each segment has separate code requirements.

Dead end versus common path

A dead end is a path with only one direction of escape. Common path is measured from the most remote point to where two distinct routes exist. They are separate code limits.

Fire barrier continuity

A fire barrier must be continuous from the floor slab to the deck above and through concealed spaces. A fire partition has lesser continuity requirements, and the two are not interchangeable.

Interior finish classification

Interior finishes are rated Class A, B, or C by flame spread and smoke-developed index. Allowable class depends on location, such as exit enclosure or corridor, and on whether the building is sprinklered.

Net-to-gross area ratio

Net assignable area divided by gross building area yields planning efficiency. Office projects commonly fall around 60 to 80 percent, and the ratio must be stated explicitly in any area program.

STC versus IIC

Sound transmission class rates airborne sound isolation between rooms. Impact insulation class rates structure-borne impact noise through floor-ceiling assemblies. Higher numbers mean better acoustic performance for both metrics.

ASHRAE 55 thermal comfort

Thermal comfort depends on air temperature, mean radiant temperature, humidity, air speed, clothing insulation, and metabolic rate. A single thermostat setpoint does not define comfort for occupants.

Design-bid-build delivery

The owner holds separate contracts with the architect and the contractor. Design is completed before bidding, which gives the owner price certainty but a longer schedule and no contractor input during design.

Construction manager at risk

The construction manager holds the trade contracts and guarantees a maximum price, often after design development. The owner holds one contract with the CM and gains early construction input during design.

Standard of care

The architect owes the skill and care of a reasonably prudent practitioner in the same discipline and locality. It is not a guarantee of perfection, and liability is based on fault.

MasterFormat versus UniFormat

MasterFormat organizes specifications by work result and trade into divisions. UniFormat organizes by building element and is used for cost estimating and early design. The two structures serve different purposes.

Division 01 general requirements

Division 01 governs submittal procedures, substitutions, quality control, temporary facilities, closeout, and warranties. It controls how the technical specification sections are administered on the project.

Submittal review scope

The architect reviews shop drawings, product data, and samples for conformance with the design concept and contract documents. The review does not cover construction means, methods, or safety.

RFI versus ASI

A request for information asks a question during construction. An architect's supplemental instruction directs a change. An RFI response alone does not modify the contract documents unless issued as an ASI.

Substantial completion

The date the work is sufficiently complete for its intended use. It triggers warranty start, retainage release provisions, and the owner's right to occupy the work.

Seal and signature rules

Only a licensed architect may seal construction documents for buildings requiring an architect. Sealing drawings not prepared or supervised by the seal holder is a licensure violation.

Life-cycle cost formula

Life-cycle cost equals initial cost plus operating, maintenance, and replacement costs minus salvage, discounted to present value. First cost alone is not a valid comparison between systems.

Critical path and float

The critical path is the longest sequence of dependent activities and sets project duration. Float is slack in a non-critical path. Only compressing the critical path shortens the project.

Sprinkler code trade-offs

Sprinklers may allow longer travel distances, reduced corridor ratings, or increased occupant loads. These allowances are conditional and must be verified in the adopted code before relying on them.

Accessible route clear width

An accessible route must be at least 36 inches clear width, with passing spaces at intervals on long routes. Doors typically require 32 inches clear width and maneuvering clearance on both sides.

Ramp slope maximum

Ramps generally may not exceed a 1:12 slope, with landings at the top and bottom and handrails where required. Edge protection prevents wheeled devices from leaving the ramp.

Change of occupancy trigger

A change in use group can require full code compliance for the new use, including egress, fire ratings, and accessibility, even when the building is otherwise unchanged.

IEBC compliance paths

The International Existing Building Code provides repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, and historic chapters. The work area and level of alteration determine how much upgrade is required.

Firestopping requirement

Every penetration of a fire-rated assembly must be protected with a listed firestop system. A single unsealed penetration can defeat the rating of an otherwise compliant assembly.

Commissioning purpose

A third-party commissioning agent verifies that systems meet the owner's project requirements. Commissioning begins in design, continues through construction, and is documented for the owner.

Energy use intensity

Energy use intensity is annual energy consumption divided by floor area, expressed in kBtu per square foot or similar units. It allows comparison across buildings and against benchmarks.

Broad-form indemnity risk

Broad-form indemnity requires the architect to cover the owner's own negligence, which is often uninsurable. Architects typically negotiate to limit indemnity to their own negligent acts.

Consequential damages waiver

A waiver of consequential damages bars recovery for lost profits or loss of use. It is common in design and construction contracts and should be mutual to protect both parties.

Post-occupancy evaluation

A structured review of a building in use, using surveys, interviews, observation, and measurement. Results are compared to design intent and benchmarks and inform future projects.

CPTED principles

Crime prevention through environmental design uses natural surveillance, access control, and territorial reinforcement. These strategies must be balanced against life safety and accessibility requirements.