BCAB #1515 - Exterior Wall acting as a Guard

July 5, 2000

BCAB #1515

Re: Exterior Wall Acting as a Guard

Project Description

The project in question involves the enclosure of existing exterior walkways on the second and third storeys of an office building. An aluminum framed glazing system is being employed to enclose the opening between the top of a 30-inch high parapet wall and the underside of the walkway or roof overhang above.

Reason for Appeal

Article 4.1.10.1. specifies design loads for guards and Article 4.1.10.3. has load requirements for walls acting as guards.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends that the infill glazing constitutes an exterior wall, not a guard. Therefore, Articles 4.1.10.1 and 4.1.10.3. do not apply.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that the new exterior wall, consisting of the existing 30 inch high wall and the new infill glazing, must comply with Article 4.1.10.3., "Loads on Walls Acting as Guards," or a guard conforming to Article 4.1.10.1., Loads on Guards, must be installed in front of the new glazing.

Appeal Board Decision #1515

It is the determination of the Board that both Articles 4.1.10.1.and 4.1.10.3. are applicable to the project in question.

George Humphrey, Chair