Building Regulations Roof Access Hatch

Larger openings can be used however consideration must be given to the ease of opening and closing the cover.

Building regulations roof access hatch. Where a stairway is provided to a roof access to the roof shall be provided through a penthouse complying with section 1510 2 of the california building code. The building owner would then want to provide safe access to the roof via a stair or alternating tread device check the building code for that provide fall protection on the roof and provide a davit system for window washing equipment. A private stair in one dwelling permits a maximum pitch of 42 degrees. The opening size of the roof hatch should be considered and should not exceed 1000 x 1000mm.

Overall these are the regulations which govern the requirements for loft hatches and access panels within properties and buildings. If left open the hatch can pose a serious fall hazard. 1009 16 2 protection at roof hatch openings. In buildings without an occupied roof access to the roof shall be permitted to be a roof hatch or trap door not less than 16 square feet 1 5m2 in area and having a minimum dimension of 2 feet 610 mm.

Roof access hatch should be capable of being operated safely using one hand while maintaining three points of contact on the ladder at all times. Hatches should also include a locking arm feature that allows for the cover or door to lock in an open position. They are present on most nonresidential buildings. A roof access hatch must also be able to be held open by an external device so it cannot close on itself and cause injury.

In order to be the right hatch to meet the regulations it needs to have a u value of 0 35 or lower. In buildings without an occupied roof access to the roof shall be permitted to be a roof hatch or trap door not less than 16 square feet 1 5 m 2 in area and having a minimum dimension of 2 feet 610 mm. Where opening width accommodates double stair width minimum internal skylight length reduces to 2 4m for a 900mm landing. Roof hatches known sometimes as roof scuttles are designed to allow workers safe access to roof areas for hvac equipment maintenance roof renovations etc.

For more information about current building regulations and standards please contact gbc solutions.