Christopher,
This is probably a good opportunity to put in a plug for AF&PA’s “Prescriptive Residential Deck Design Guide” available for download (free!!) at http://www.awc.org/Codes/dcaindex.html#PostFramePubs.
It won’t tell you much about how to notify the owner/AHJ, mind you, but it certainly should provide good guidance for repairs.
Gary J. Ehrlich, PE
Program Manager, Structural Codes & Standards
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
ph: 202-266-8545 or 800-368-5242 x8545
fax: 202-266-8369
gehrlich@nahb.com
From: Christopher Banbury [mailto:cbanbury@arkengineering.net]
Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2008 11:24 AM
To: seaint@seaint.org
Subject: site accident, unsafe deck
My engineer and I had a narrow scrape today when we broke through a tread and intermediate rail while on an elevated wood deck (single family) during a site visit. We escaped serious injury but I’d like some advice as to how the owner and/or AHJ should be notified. I suspect the entire deck and stair is unsafe including the attachment to the main structure.
At the site I immediately instructed the owner to cordon the area off and I am preparing a letter as well.
I would appreciate any advice regarding language, delivery methods and procedures.
Thanks in advance.
Christopher Banbury, PE
President
Ark Engineering, Inc.
Phone: (352) 754-2424
Fax: (352) 754-2412
