Above Ground Pool Deck Gate

[jaybrown]

If someone wants to build a deck around their above ground pool with no fence along the property line, installing a gate is necessary to complete the 48" barrier requirements. Have you guys allowed these gates at the bottom is the stairs with no landings? I have debated around this with inspectors. Some believe gates at the top of the stairs are safer to avoid a wet footed slip down the stairs leading to crash into the gate at the bottom. While that makes sense it makes it awkward and unsafe to have the gate open away from the pool at the top of the stairs.
I'm just wondering if anyone has any situations they have encountered and would like to share.
Thanks!

 

[Mr. Inspector]

I think the 2018 IRC requires landings

R311.7.6 Landings for stairways. There shall be a floor
or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The
width perpendicular to the direction of travel shall be not
less than the width of the flight served. For landings of
shapes other than square or rectangular, the depth at the
walk line and the total area shall be not less than that of a
quarter circle with a radius equal to the required landing
width. Where the stairway has a straight run, the depth in
the direction of travel shall be not less than 36 inches (914
mm).
Exception: A floor or landing is not required at the top
of an interior flight of stairs, including stairs in an
enclosed garage, provided that a door does not swing
over the stairs.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

The 2018 ISPSC says:

Section 306 Decks

306.1 General
The structural design and installation of decks around pools and spas shall be in accordance with the International Residential Code or the International Building Code, as applicable in accordance with Section 102.7 and this section.

Not sure if required if the wood pool deck does not go "around" the onground pool.

 

[steveray]

Put the gate over the bottom tread....

 

[mp25]

I prefer the top of the stair direction by building a 3' deep landing leading to the deck to allow the gate to swing in the correct direction. If you put the 4' high gate at the bottom, the 4' barrier would have to wrap the first step or two at each side of the bottom of the stair so that you have a continuous 48" high barrier - a typical handrail/guardrail combo at 34/38 would not do it.

 

[steveray]

I prefer the top of the stair direction by building a 3' deep landing leading to the deck to allow the gate to swing in the correct direction.

Agreed…but….typically the lower guard for the deck in that instance becomes a climbing aid for the pool barrier.