BCAB #1526 - Required Guards, Sentence 9.8.8.1 (1)

February 22, 2001

BCAB #1526

Re: Required Guards, Sentence 9.8.8.1 (1)

Project Description

The subject building is a two storey structure; with a single storey area on each side of a central two storey area. Located on the roof of each single storey area is a HVAC unit. Access for maintenance for the HVAC units is through a 3’0" X 6’8" door located off the second storey floor, onto the roof of the first storey area. The thresholds of the doors are 12" above the floor level, and have keyed access. There is no guard around the roof area where the HVAC units are located.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 9.8.8.1.(1) states that every surface to which access is provided, for other than maintenance purposes, shall be protected by a wall or guard where the difference in elevation to adjacent surfaces is more 600 mm.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends the doors are installed for maintenance access only, will have keyed access, and therefore a guard around the roof area is not required.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official contends that the doors provide access the roof area and that a guard should be installed around the perimeter of the roof areas.

Appeal Board Decision #1526

The stated use of the doors is only to provide access for maintenance purposes. It is therefore the determination of the Board that no guards are required.

George Humphrey, Chair