In an R-2 apartment building with 20 dwelling units, which fire alarm system requirement is in accordance with the IBC?

In an R-2 apartment building with 20 dwelling units, the requirement for a manual fire alarm system that activates occupant notification aligns with the International Building Code (IBC) guidelines. This is due to the fact that IBC assigns higher safety standards for structures like apartment buildings, where occupants may be asleep or otherwise unaware of potential fire hazards.

A manual fire alarm system provides critical features such as the ability for residents or nearby individuals to activate the alarm upon noticing smoke or fire, which is essential in providing timely alerts to all occupants. The activation of an occupant notification system ensures that all residents are alerted promptly, facilitating a quick evacuation and enhancing overall safety.

In this context, the design and installation of such systems are not just about meeting code requirements; they are fundamental to protecting the lives of individuals who may not have immediate access to external help during a fire emergency. Therefore, the choice of requiring a manual fire alarm system with occupant notification in an R-2 apartment building reflects best practices in life safety and fire prevention as outlined in the IBC.