elevator? 2 story building (6,200 sf) w/at grade access both levels

[Hyrax4978]

I am inheriting a project from a previous architect in which i will now own the design going forward. It was recently permitted (and approved) but never built. Just as the contractor was getting started the owner decided to make changes. It is a 2 story medical office building. Originally the design was to renovate half of the building. Due to major structural deficiencies and floor to floor height issues, the owner will be tearing down part of the existing building and rebuilding it back in the exact same footprint, with almost the exact same layout as the previous design. The rebuilt portion and existing portion total approx. 6,200 SF footprint. There is at grade access to both levels due to the grades of the site. At grade access existing before, and will remain in the reconstruction. There are basically no changes in the existing building. Both levels of the building offer different functions. But there was a convince stair connecting both levels in the reconstructed area for employees to go from floor to floor. No elevator. This was permitted and approved by the town. The town is aware of the structural issues and is behind the reconstruction which will be structurally sound, and more code compliant than before. That being said, Is there a code that allows the omitting of an elevator in this scenario. It was both design by an architect, and approved by the town. But i can't see where omitting this elevator just because we have grade access at both levels is stated anywhere in the code. Thank you! Brian

 

[classicT]

If providing a circulation path interior to the building via a stairway, then you should also provide an interior accessible pathway.

Generally speaking, an elevator is not required for your proposed building. Grade access at each level meets the requirement of 1104.4. However, once you provide a path for some, provide it for all (see 1104.5).

 

[mtlogcabin]

Sounds like this is an existing building therefore the 20% rule would be applicable unless it is a change of use.
It is a medical facility so the 3,000 sq ft exemption does not apply.
My suggestion would be to design and install an elevator shaft at a minimum even if the cost exceed the 20% rule and then an elevator would be easier to install in the future if the function of the building changes.

 

[steveray]

I'm with MT on this....Although if you can get to 20% w/o any shaft you do meet code....But the owner should consider ADA issues...

 

[Mr. Inspector]

If the interior stairway is part of the demo and a new stairway is being built I would have require an elevator because of accessibility codes during the plan review..

 

[Builder Bob]

Agree to all of the above.... Accessibility is to allow equal opportunity for all..... as long as all people have o travel the path - equal opportunity is provided.