Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
(OP)
I am designing a three story building (approx 5000 SF/Floor) within an industrial environment. Based on the code the building requires two points of egress, which shall be separated via fire wall. The client has created a general arrangement utilizing stairs meeting OSHA rqmts (9"rise/10"trd) and a caged ladder as the forms of egress.
I have expressed that neither of these will met the rqmts of the IBC, but I did indicate I will look a little closer to determine if we have any options.
A few Questions:
1) Is anyone aware of any exclusion within the IBC which allows less than the mandated number of exits within an Industrial site?
2) If a building official is willing to provide a waiver, would that protect me as an engineer?
3) Could I provide a similar letter to the owner, advising him of the IBC rqmts and allow the client to make the decision in writing and would this action protect me as an engineer?
I am also going to have a discussion with our E&O Insurance Attorney as well.
I am curious how other handle similar situations.
Regards,
I have expressed that neither of these will met the rqmts of the IBC, but I did indicate I will look a little closer to determine if we have any options.
A few Questions:
1) Is anyone aware of any exclusion within the IBC which allows less than the mandated number of exits within an Industrial site?
2) If a building official is willing to provide a waiver, would that protect me as an engineer?
3) Could I provide a similar letter to the owner, advising him of the IBC rqmts and allow the client to make the decision in writing and would this action protect me as an engineer?
I am also going to have a discussion with our E&O Insurance Attorney as well.
I am curious how other handle similar situations.
Regards,






RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
Examples are the "classic" local seismic, wind and snow loads for an area (usually referenced to the general requirements)based on specific location. The egress requirements can also be made more stringent for access/egress depending on local equipment, access restrictions and trained practices. A prime example is the problem with the IRC egress requirements that do not address the size of local children where the children have statistically be shown to shorter (here for access to an opening there are exceptions) that decrease the sill height below the normal model code requirements and the opening size for fire fighting equipment to allow access for safety and fire fighting and future life safety.
Similarly, major fire protection equipment cannot be replaced for one project when it comes to life safety. Whether it is an industrial site or a residential site, the fire protection/suppression is key and some floor plans may require different standards.
It is best to talk to the local code official rather that try to create a new standard for just one building.
Dick
Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.
RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
You need to comply with IBC and OSHA (29CFR1910) at a minimum. An owner or building official cannot waive the right of workers to have a workplace free from recognized workplace hazards. Substandard stairs are a recognized hazard.
RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
Wording in this section is very unclear as far as industrial facilities. A common interpretation of "not accessible to the public" as a dividing line between IBC and OSHA requirements. This is totally up to AHJ as to whether they will allow it!
RE: Building Code Egress Rqmts (IBC)
Consider the Building Code the law. If the client wanted to build out of gasoline soaked balsa wood to save money, would that be acceptable if you got a letter? Buildings change hands and usages. Your best defense against being legally liable, or worse, causing loss of life is to follow the code.