A significant change to the Ontario Building Code (OBC) was just revealed that positively affects the fall arrest anchor and tie-back equipment industry. Effective January 1, 2015, wood frame buildings could be built up to six stories tall in Ontario (an increase from four stories).
Since roof anchor systems are required for maintenance and window washing equipment on buildings that are eight meters tall (usually over three stories), our industry will see a dramatic shift from concrete and steel mid-rise to wood frame mid-rise.
The OBC change reflects codes in most European and some North American areas. Specifically, the change was made in British Columbia in 2009, and our Vancouver office regularly sees projects with wood frames come through the door (probably because of the building Owner’s affordability and the consumer’s growing demand for mid-rises).
While there are challenges with putting our equipment on wood frame buildings, there is always a solution.
Best Practices for Securing Fall Arrest Equipment on Wood Structures
The equipment should be close to the edge of the building (parapet), and a pinned-down outrigger beam should be utilized to rig. The proximity to the parapet eliminates a lot of inboard distance and decreases the force on the structure. This method also pulls the anchor away (perpendicular) upward from the structure, reducing the stress on the structure instead of pulling horizontally (parallel) with the structure. Check out the pinned-down outrigger beam detail below.
Like all roof anchors, the load requirements are still 1,000 lbs. (working) and 5,000 lbs. (ultimate). So, to achieve this, the structure around it must be “blocked up,” similar in fashion to reinforcing certain steel structures (like open web steel joists). There are a couple of examples of wood structure roof anchors below (however, modifications can be Engineered to accommodate the structure).
Also, communication with us (the roof anchor manufacturer) and the Structural Engineer are crucial in all projects. All parties must know precisely where the equipment is going and understand the load requirements.
You can read the news release at Ontario Increases Allowed Heigh of Wood Frame Buildings to Six Storeys
Secure Your Wood Frame Building with Reliable Roof Anchors. Contact us today to discuss tailored roof anchor solutions.