Interpretation #7123

Original Request

Code Version: 2010
Code: BUILDING
Code Description: Building
Chapter: 4
Section: 423.13.7.2
Topic: chair rails on glass panels

Question

Is it the intent of 423.13.7.2 to require built in horizontal members or permanent chair rails on large glass panels even if they are sfaety glazing and is it up to the building official to determine what is a large glass panel since the code does not define this term?

Answer Published 02/05/2013 at 11:29 AM

As indicated in Informal Interpretation No. 5814, the
section is directly related to the 9 square feet area as
indicated in Section 2406.4.7(7.1) of the FBC, 2010. The
requirement is to provide for a chair rail or visual
barrier in the sidelite and/or windows so that the opening
would not appear as an exit opening for people to walk
through. In educational facilities, the 9 square feet area
is considered too large for pre-kindergarten children and
is required to be reduced by Department of Education
standards. For the high school students, the 9 square feet
is acceptable.

Commentary

The Department of Education chose to use the horizontal bar and safety glass for all applications in public schools. The AHJ is considered to use both Section 423.13.7.2 and Section 2406.4.7(7.1)as references when reviewing plans for public education facilities. The requirement for the subdivision of sidelites and windows has been in existence since 1970 in Rule 6A-2.32(6)(c) Special safety provisions section of the State Requirements for Educational Facilities.