BCAB #1545 - Accessibility Between Floor Levels, Sentence 3.8.3.10.(1)

August 15, 2001

BCAB #1545

Re: Accessibility Between Floor Levels, Sentence 3.8.3.10.(1)

Project Description

The subject building is a three storey hotel classified as Group C major occupancy. The floor of the reception lobby has two levels, one being 530 mm lower than the other and connected by a stair with 3 risers. The upper level is used for reception / administrative office and the lower level accommodates continental breakfasts for hotel guests. The lower level is approximately 68m2 in area.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 3.8.3.10.(1) requires floors and levels at different elevations to be connected by ramps, an elevating device conforming to CAN/CSA-B44 or CAN/CSA B-355, or other acceptable means to the authority having jurisdiction.

Appellant's Position

The appellant intends to use an inclined lift that conforms to CAN/CSA B-355 "Lifts for Persons with Physical Disabilities". The appellant has obtained approval the Electrical and Elevating Devices Safety Branch to install an inclined lift without a key control.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official require a vertical lift, as this can be operated without a key control, for ease of access by the disabled person.

Appeal Board Decision #1545

It is the determination of the Board that the proposed inclined lift as described complies with the requirements for persons with disabilities.

George Humphrey, Chair