Interpretation #7765

Published May 20, 2016

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Original Request

Code Version
2014
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Chapter
Section
3015
Topic
Playground shade structure lightning protection

Question

We wish to build a canopy shade structure over a public school playground. The Building Department is asking us to install lightning protection with air terminals either glued to the fabric or pocking out through holes, which is not doable according to the manufacturer. We have a sealed letter from an engineer establishing that shade structures like canopies fall under the code mentioned above and do not require lightning protection because the fabric has been treated and does not ignite.

Answer Published 05/20/2016 at 8:41 AM

The code for public education facilities at 453.17.7 calls
for an evaluation of the need for lightning protection per
NFPA 786 in high lightning risk areas. Presumably, the
evaluation will determine whether the protection is needed
or not.

Commentary

None