Building Code Glossary
Clean Agent: Building Code Definition
How the IBC 2009, IFC 2009 define clean agent, where the wording differs, and which chapters depend on the term.
On this page
Last updated September 7, 2026 · Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The [ICC code library](https://codes.iccsafe.org/codes) publishes the current model text and the [ICC adoption maps](https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/code-adoption-maps/) show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Direct answer
Clean agent is a defined term in the International Building Code (IBC) 2009, in Fire Protection Systems. The code's own words are: “Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.” The IFC 2009 carries the same definition word for word, so the term means the same thing in each. The term is used in 4 chapters of this corpus, most often in Definitions (IBC 2009), Fire Protection Systems (IBC 2009), Definitions (IFC 2009). These pages transcribe the 2009 model text; verify the definition against the edition and amendments your authority having jurisdiction has adopted. Record the jurisdiction, the adopted edition, the application date and any local amendment that rewrites the definition before you use it on a live project, because a term redefined by amendment changes every requirement that depends on it.
Content and cited inputs reviewed by Scott Barrington, Harth founder and architectural technology specialist · Published 2026-09-07 · Updated 2026-09-07.
What does this term mean?
Clean Agent — IBC 2009, Fire Protection Systems:
Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.
What must be verified before using this guidance?
Two of the I-Codes in this corpus define Clean Agent, in identical words.
| Code | Where it is defined | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| IBC 2009 | Fire Protection Systems | Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation. |
| IFC 2009 | Fire Protection Systems | Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation. |
Where clean agent is used in the code
The term appears in 4 chapters of the 2009 I-Codes hosted here. The chapters that lean on it hardest are the ones to read next.
| Chapter | Code | Mentions |
|---|---|---|
| Definitions | IBC 2009 | 1 |
| Fire Protection Systems | IBC 2009 | 1 |
| Definitions | IFC 2009 | 1 |
| Fire Protection Systems | IFC 2009 | 1 |
Clean Agent: what to open, and in what order
Every row is a document this term depends on. The ICC code library and the ICC adoption maps cover the middle rows.
| Check | Where | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| Read the definition in the adopted IBC | Fire Protection Systems | |
| Read the definition in the adopted IFC | Fire Protection Systems | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Definitions (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fire Protection Systems (IBC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Definitions (IFC 2009) | |
| Re-check the requirement that uses it | Fire Protection Systems (IFC 2009) | |
| Local amendment to any of the above | Jurisdiction's amendment list |
A research aid, not a code determination. The authority having jurisdiction decides which edition and which amendments apply.
Where can you explore related guidance?
- Explore all glossary guidance
- Automatic: Building Code Definition
- Zone: Building Code Definition
- Automatic Sprinkler System: Building Code Definition
- Fire Alarm System: Building Code Definition
Sources and method
Definitions quoted from the 2009 International Codes as transcribed in this site's building-codes collection, with the source chapter linked for each quotation. Usage counts are computed over the chapters hosted here, one copy per code. The ICC code library publishes the current model text and the ICC adoption maps show which edition a jurisdiction has adopted; those sources control.
Source links
Frequently asked questions
What is the code definition of clean agent?
The International Building Code (IBC) 2009 defines it in Fire Protection Systems as: “Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.” The 2009 model text is reproduced here; the definition that binds your project is the one in the edition your jurisdiction has adopted, as amended locally.
Which parts of the code depend on clean agent?
In this corpus the term is used across 4 chapters, led by Definitions in the IBC 2009. Those are the sections whose scope moves if the definition is amended locally, so read them together with Chapter 2 rather than on their own.
What is a clean agent?
In the 2009 I-Codes hosted here it is a defined term rather than a description. The IBC 2009 states, in Fire Protection Systems: “Electrically nonconducting, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishant that does not leave a residue upon evaporation.” It is defined in IBC 2009, IFC 2009. Because it is a defined term, whatever the adopted edition says it means is what every section using it means — so check Chapter 2 of that edition and any local amendment before relying on this wording.
Related pages
- Circulation Path: Building Code Definition
Circulation Path — IBC 2009 definition: An exterior or interior way of passage from one place to another for pedestrians.
- Cladding: Building Code Definition
Cladding — IRC 2009 definition: The exterior materials that cover the surface of the building envelope that is directly loaded by …
- Class 2 Circuit: Building Code Definition
Class 2 Circuit — IRC 2009 definition: That portion of the wiring system between the load side of a Class 2 power source …
- Cleanout: Building Code Definition
Cleanout — IBC 2009 definition: An opening to the bottom of a grout space of sufficient size and spacing to allow …
- Clearance: Building Code Definition
Clearance — IRC 2009 definition: The minimum distance through air measured between the heat-producing surface of the mechanical appliance, device or …
- Clinic, Outpatient: Building Code Definition
Clinic, Outpatient — IBC 2009 definition: Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical care on less than a 24-hour basis to …