Intake and Exhaust Vent Height

[swoosh172]

IBC and NYC Building code require the outside air intake and exhaust air intakes to be at least 10 feet above the ground. Why is this? I see all the time louvers/intakes that are right above the door jam, i.e 8 feet. I have a mechanical room that is in the first floor of the building, and I cannot run a shaft through the roof for the exhaust and intake vents, my only option is through the side wall but the wall is only 10 feet high. My louver is like 74x44, so it definitely will not meet the code.

 

[DuctHunter]

I don't know for sure, but if I had to guess the 10' requirements are for snow and other debris to keep out and for exhaust, to keep people from breathomg in noxious air. the 10' is out of the breathing zone should somebody walk by.

 

[imok2]

You may have to exit lower and extend some ductwork up to the 10 foot level

 

[willard3]

Carbon monoxide, street detritus and snow are three reasons that pop to mind for keeping air intakes above 10'.