A field perspective-what the inspector looks for during a Racking inspection.

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1 A field perspective-what the inspector looks for during a Racking inspection.

2 Does existing space meet the code at time structure was built or has it been modified and now is non-conforming. LOOKING AT ALL ASPECTS OF SAFE EGRESS Have new elements been added like awning, occasionally the light will be above the new awnings and prevent egress from being illuminated Check to see if handrails/guards have been removed (holes in the wall indicating previously mounted on wall side?) Are steps new and not per all code requirements for stairs (UNIFORMITY, MINIMUM DEPTH OF TREAD OR HEIGHT OF RISER, STAIR WIDTH, CLEAR HEADROOM, SLOPE, ETC )- looking for unsafe condition Are existing egress elements STRUCTURALLY sound

3 Issues upon entry: 1. Are all identified egress doors compliant with current or original code requirements-lighting, Signage, operation, locking devices, etc.? 2. Is egress accessible or has it been blocked with storage items? All identified exits must be maintained or reviewed to be removed from the requirement for the space they served (typical done when something has been altered and exit is non-conforming now). If exit is determined to not be needed then signage including directional must be removed to that non-conforming egress.

4 Is signage visible with new racking layout (signs/lighting may need to be modified to accommodate new arrangements and will require electrical permits). Careful care should be taken to identify signage location and layout based upon racking position and storage height of commodities. Fire inspector will pick up on new extinguisher locations if needed during their inspection to include if visible

5 It s important for the designer to walk the job and identify in advance all issues that a field inspector may flag as a concern to address that at the plan review stage. All exist need to be identified and travel distance to assure no problems with layout, identified doors as exists need to be verified as required, safe and compliant with current code or at time of original construction. Older versions of State Building codes are online at NCDOI for review if needed (both rear exists shown heree did not meet code) Isle width should be indicated, problem shown is back wall isle had less than 30, racking was close to wall and had to be removed

6 Note on plans about exit and emergency lighting? Issue has been discussed several time to help get permit out the door and to start project however if this is not shown correctly on the original plan and dealt with upfront in the permitting process it can add delays and significant last minute expenses.

7 Inspector will verify that space was original the same occupancy group and there is no change in usage that would trigger change of use review. This was a warehouse with very small incidental office space up front, no change in use

8 Structural plans indicate that the racking at top of merchandise can be as high as which will obscure egress signage and there is little to no directional signage

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12 Other issue with installation is the exit signage is not mounted flush but projects out and is not visible straight on, also exit door drops off 4 to grade with no stairs on other side of opening (non-compliant means of egress)

13 Connection details required to indentify not just anchorage but how rails are attached No exit signage visible in this isle

14 The use of existing racking that is relocated may trigger engineering review based upon condition of material used Engineering review required

15 Structural plans indicate a different spacing attachment, this attachment not on plans, alterations from sealed drawings will require review by the designer of record. Need to stick with sealed drawing installation for product or have alternate attachment by designer submitted to inspector.

16 Structural plans should call out required bolting attachment and need to be followed, original inspection only had 1 bolt in base plate but plans indicated 2 required. Inspection will stick with the sealed drawings on installation and should be read carefully.

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18 Random damage noted in several areas using existing older racking, needs to be reviewed by engineer

19 SECTION 1011 EXIT SIGNS Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. Access to exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Exit sign placement shall be such that no point in a corridor is more than 100 feet ( mm) or the listed viewing distance for the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign. Hard to see 1 directional signage that was added in this warehouse. Directional signage can be reduced or removed with larger sign installation. Options are available under the code

20 Alterations not on plan will require review by designer and delay approval, racking must be installed per plans and design, solid angle on floor was not in designer package

21 Many areas show bent and in some cases no longer connected on one end to vertical supports

22 Isle was too close to back wall, dimension not shown on plans and had to be modified in the field to all for egress

23 Older not illuminated egress sign was removed when determined this was not a compliant egress door Signage was added since door was not an exit and drops off to grade 4 on other side, this is rear of the building at railroad tracks

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25 Flat signage was original, new illuminated signage not facing in correct direction, door had a ladder attached on exterior and was not a compliant means of egress.

26 Ladders off side hinged doors at railroad tracks shown on plans as a required means of egress that was not complaint with code (current or original), had exit signage on interior

27 If existing overhead lighting doesn t have several that are on back up power, new lighting sources will be required for new warehouse layout. It s important to review this in the field to prevent being an issue the inspector address at a final inspection when not installed. Letters are required on the following at final inspection: 1. Emergency lighting and exist signage that the electrical contractor has tested and backup power source is operationalsimple letterhead statement 2. Sprinkler certification letter will be required if work was done to the sprinkler system per NFPA13, if no work fire may just require copies of the most current system check. 3. Alarm certification letter, only required if alarm system is installed and per NFPA72