Wood Pedestrian Bridge?

[StephNow]

2009 IBC

Multifamily residential with a concrete and steel pedestrian bridge connecting the front exit to the parking lot is proposed to be rebuilt with pressure treated lumber. Is this permitted as combustible construction? It appears as though it is because the structure is combustible.

What are your thoughts?

 

[steveray]

If it was properly engineered I could not think of a reason to deny it...Even if the building was noncombustible, unless it was actually connected to the building....

 

[north star]

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snowroski,

Will the "proposed" pedestrian bridge actually be
connected to a combustible building [ RE: Section
3104.3, `09 IBC ] ?


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[StephNow]

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snowroski,

Will the "proposed" pedestrian bridge actually be
connected to a combustible building [ RE: Section
3104.3, `09 IBC ] ?


$ * $ * $

Yes, the bridge will be connected to the combustible structure on one side and the non-combustible parking lot on the other.

 

[steveray]

Since when is asphalt noncombustible?

 

[ICE]

3104.1 General. This section shall apply to connections
between buildings such as pedestrian walkways or tunnels,
located at, above or below grade level, that are used as a
means of travel by persons.


Here is another code section that probably doesn't apply:

1010.8 Ramp construction. All ramps shall be built of materials
consistent with the types permitted for the type of construction
of the building, except that wood handrails shall be
permitted for all types of construction.

 

[Paul Sweet]

Is this a means of egress from the building, or just a convenience? Is the building combustible construction, or would the code it was built under allow it to be combustible?

 

[StephNow]

Since when is asphalt noncombustible?

Who said the parking lot was asphalt?

It is, but the bridge connects to a concrete wall with a concrete walkway before the asphalt parking lot. (I see where I left the concrete details out.)

Is this a means of egress from the building, or just a convenience? Is the building combustible construction, or would the code it was built under allow it to be combustible?

Yes, the building is permitted to be combustible. It is a means of egress, not just convenience.

 

[ADAguy]

Are lumber sizes enough to be considered heavy timber construction?

 

[steveray]

Sounds like it works how it is....

 

[StephNow]

Are lumber sizes enough to be considered heavy timber construction?

No, standard dimensional lumber, sized for 100psf live load.

Sounds like it works how it is....

The existing concrete and steel are deteriorated. I think replacement with wood has something to do with money...

 

[mtlogcabin]

The danger to the occupants is what happens inside the building. Although this may not be specific to the code it is part of the "exit discharge" and needs to be considered.
I would start with 1027, then look at 1026 and 1019 for the intent to provide protection along the egress path. If you do not find anything that you think should be applied to the protect then move on and call it good.