IBC R3 Guards and Stairs question...

[righter101]

Hello.

Consider a mixed use builing with a SFR on top (R3).

The IBC will govern for the entire project.

IBC Says stairs rise =max 7". Exception allows for 7.75" for R3 (making it consistent with the IRC). Commentary says....due to the low occupant load, familiarity of occupants with stairs, etc....

IBC Says Guards must be 42". the only noted exceptions deal with guards along stairs in R3/R2.

Anyone have a good explanation or guess why they would except the R3 for some requirements, but not others???

Thoughts??

 

[fatboy]

Because the IRC/IBC Code Committees don't play nice with each other? Don't really care about synching requirements?

 

[steveray]

....due to the low occupant load, familiarity of occupants with stairs, etc....

There are exceptions for several R3 requirements, including some handrails also......rise and tread uniformity are probably more important than height....you have a choice to not live somewhere if you don't like the stairs, you may not have much of a choice of a public building you need to go to.....

 

[TJacobs]

Every code has it's exceptions...