I've got a small project installing some lighting, benches, etc. near a sea wall which is 6ft across, flush with the ground, and 4-5ft above the water surface. I've explained to the client that guard rails are a must under IBC 1013.1 but am getting a lot of push back as the client feels they can justify this as a "pier" or "loading dock" and fall under the exception. I still don't feel comfortable that this satisfies the requirement but wanted to see if anyone has worked more extensively in marinas or harbors and is familiar with the issue of guard rails in these locations.