Title
Proposed Modification of Section 2.4.310 of the Unified Building and Trades Code (UBTC) Prohibiting 'Ladder-like' Railings.
Body
Recommended Action: Approve the removal of the portion of the amendment that prohibits the use of horizontal rails or other ornamental pattern that results in a 'ladder-like' effect.
The 2000 International Residential Code (IRC) prohibited the use of horizontal rails or other ornamental pattern that would result in a 'ladder-like' effect. Although in more current editions (2006, 2012) of the IRC this specific terminology has been removed, Wichita-Sedgwick County has amended the UBTC to include this restriction. Based on the lack of safety data to support the need for prohibiting the 'ladder-like' effect, the Wichita Area Builders' Association (WABA) has requested that the restriction be removed from the amendment. The proposed removal of the specified portion of the amendment was presented to the Board of Code Standards and Appeals (BCSA) at its January 8, 2018, meeting. The BCSA gave a recommendation to remove the specified portion of the amendment, voting 9 - 0 in favor of the removal.
Alternatives: Not to approve the removal of the portion of the amendment that prohibits the use of horizontal rails or other ornamental pattern that results in a 'ladder-like' effect.
Financial Considerations: N/A
Legal Considerations: The authority for this resolution is K.S.A. 19-101 et seq. Approval is by simple majority vote.
Policy Considerations: N/A