TER

Performance Limitations for Mechanical Equipment & TER Certifications

Summary of Building Code & Research Intent The intent & provisions of the 2018 International Building Code (IBC), 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) & 2020 Florida Building/Residential Codes are to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health, and general welfare of occupants of new and existing buildings & structures. From 2022 / 2020 …

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About Impact Requirements & Mechanical Equipment in the Florida Building Code & Essential Facilities

Mechanical Equipment – Impact or Not Impact? Questions frequently arise as to what the rule is in Florida, Miami, and the HVHZ zone (Dade and Broward Counties, FL) under the Florida Building Code (FBC) for impact rating on mechanical equipment. The answer also has similar references in the International Building Code (IBC) for impact areas …

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Pros and Cons of Obtaining a Florida Statewide Approval Vs A Miami Dade Approval and how a TER fits in

Two common means of product evaluations in Florida are Florida Statewide Approvals (FSA’s) and Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance (NOA’s). To help determine whether these evaluations would be right for you, we’ve compiled a list of pros & cons for each type of evaluation. (opinions as interpreted by this firm)   Pros for a Florida Statewide …

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What are Limitations of Small & Large Missile Impact Designs?

We are frequently asked what are the limitations applied on Small Missile Impact and Large Missile Impact products. Engineering Express takes into consideration the following code limitations while preparing design charts for operable windows/glass doors and non-operable windows/glass doors:  Referencing Florida Building Code Seventh Edition, (2020) Chapter 2411.3.2.4.i & 1709.5.1.3.i for Operable Windows and Glass …

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Technical Evaluation Report – TER – Types of Product Evaluations Typically Performed By Engineering Express

Engineering Express provides structural design evaluations of various types of mechanical equipment exposed to weather.  There are four (4) evaluation types typically performed, each with their own benefits and limitations of use.  This article explores each type and provides examples and summary of output. Some notes to first understand:   All tiers listed below include …

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Florida Statewide Approvals (FSA) – Quality Assurance and Validator Requirements

About Validators & Quality Assurance Compliance It is often asked of us to explain the validator and quality assurance requirements of the Florida Statewide Product Approval System.  While there is much more to learn about the topic of obtaining a Florida Statewide approval, the following explains these terms and requirements.  Contact an engineer at Engineering …

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PRODUCT APPROVALS ARE NOT ALWAYS REQUIRED! HERE’S WHY:

Here Are 3 Myths About Product Approval Requirements Background Product evaluations (sometimes called “product approvals”, “ICC reports”, NOA’s or similar) for building products are general requirements as found in the International Building Code.  Building officials, architects, insurance companies, third-party reviewers, and even homeowners ask for them all the time.   Permits frequently require them, insurance discounts …

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Case Study: Phantom Screens – Is a Florida Product Approval Required?

Product Approvals for building components are the general rule in Florida.  Building officials, architects, insurance companies, even homeowners ask for them all the time, frequently refusing permits, insurance discounts, and product installations. So what is the legal ruling on when and if product approvals are required for this product? The Florida Building Code requires only …

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Can a Building Inspector or Plan Reviewer Deny The Use of a TER or Master Plan Sheet?

DENIED – YES OR NO? While plan reviewers, inspectors, and other building officials have the authority to question any document submitted if the document complies with the intent of the applicable building code and related codes & standards, if the site-specific project design criteria (determined by others) complies with the limitations of the certified evaluation …

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What do I do if a TER or Master Plan isn’t enough for a permit?

THE BUILDING DEPARTMENT WON’T ACCEPT MY TECHNICAL EVALUATION REPORT (TER)? Sometimes, municipalities or contract documents require more information than just submitting a TER (Technical Evaluation Report).  Typical reasons why TER’s aren’t approved include: No certification is provided that the product meets the job specific project requirements SOLUTION: A Design Professional needs to certify that the …

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