Date: Report #: Code: Section:

Fri Feb 24 2006 4243 Building 114.1.3(10)

Question: Is it the intent of Section 114.1.3(10) to allow bottled water coolers instead of a hilow drinking fountain? Answer: Where only one drinking fountain is provided on a floor, there shall be a drinking fountain which is accessible to individuals who use wheelchairs in accordance with Section 114.15 and one accessible to those who have difficulty bending or stooping. This can be accommodated by the use of a hilo fountain; by providing one fountain accessible to those who use wheelchairs and one fountain at a standard height convenient for those who have difficulty bending; by providing a fountain accessible under Section 114.15 and a water cooler; or by such other means as would achieve the required accessibility for each group on each floor. Commentary: The Plumbing code establishes drinking fountain requirements and only allows 50% of the fountains provided to be bottle water coolers. If only one fountain is required by the Plumbing code, it still needs to serve both types of individuals (high/low). When more than one is required/provided a bottled water cooler can meet the requirement for those with difficulty in bending over and will meet the 50% rule.
Notice: The Building Officials Association of Florida, in cooperation with the Florida Building Commission, the Florida Department of Community Affairs, ICC, and industry and professional experts offer this interpretation of the Florida Building Code in the interest of consistency in their application statewide. This interpretation is informal, nonbinding and subject to acceptance and approval by the local building official.