"Minor storage facility" 1

[Fatalxception]

When using the Florida Building Code, when does a minor storage facility no longer considered minor? Is there a certain size of facility that matters? I am specifically asking in regards to wind load importance factors. I also looked in ASCE7 and did not find any help there either.

 

[Ron]

Fatalxception...
Unfortunately, FBC 2001 fails to clearly define this term. Certain inferences may be made, but none of them can be defensibly substantiated.

The Importance Factor used for wind loads is related to the statistical probability of hazard to human life. In that regard, size of the structure is somewhat irrelevant. This concept is related to type of construction, proximity to other structures, impact on or to other structures, storage classification and the like. As an example, a storage shed on the campus of a public school would still require an importance factor of 1.15, simply because the failure of the shed could impact the rest of the facility (wind borne debris, impact loading, etc.) that might be used as a public shelter.

Further, if a small storage facility is used to store hazardous materials, it might seem to be a "minor storage facility" in size, but its use would dictate otherwise.

In deciding the appropriate importance factor, I would look at these issues, then get concurrence from the local Building Official if you are going to use anything less than 1.0.