2012 International Fire Code (IFC) contains up-to-date information on the critical regulations governing the safeguarding of life and property from all types of fire and explosion hazards. It is the ultimate reference guide for addressing fire safety in both new and existing buildings. Using prescriptive- and performance- based approaches, this guide includes coverage of general precautions against fire, emergency planning and preparedness, fire department access, fire hydrants, automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems and hazardous materials storage and use. Completely reformatted into eight different parts that correlate to a specific area of regulation. Revised definitions for health, day and ambulatory care occupancies clarify how they are classified.

• New requirements for photovoltalic solar cells on roofs will help ensure safe fire fighting operations.
• Mass notification fire alarm systems with text displays and captions are now required in Group A stadiums and grandstands with an occupant load of 15,000 or more.
• Automatic sprinkler protection requirements for manufacturing, display and storage of upholstered furniture clarified.
• Portable fire extinguishers are now required in Group A, B, and E occupancies regardless of automatic sprinkler system protection.
• Requirements for dry cleaning plants using Class III-A and III-B combustible liquids relaxed.
• New provisions in the semiconductor fabrication facility requirements address sub-atmospheric pressure gas systems.
• Dust deflagration hazards must be reviewed, analyzed and engineering or administrative controls are now required to be documented and implemented in the IFC hazardous material provisions.
• Code text addressing automated LP-Gas cylinder exchange cabinets added.