Alberta steel platforms

[zcp]

I have several steel platforms and access tower / walkway / catwalks that I am looking at for an installation in Alberta. Can anyone point me in a direction for building codes....will the Alberta Building Code 1997 (which is about to be updated) send me to the National Building Code of Canada for loading or to ASCE 7 or somewhere else? Any ideas on what the loading will be in comparison to IBC or any tips on anything that may be particular to the ABC?

ZCP

http://www.phoenix-engineer.com

 

[csd72]

Contact the local government building office in Alberta to confirm which codes apply.

 

[dik]

Alberta has a building code separate and distinct from the National Building Code. In Manitoba, for example, we use an amended National Building Code, that is, the NBC with about a 40 pages of relatively minor changes.

You should be able to purchase the Alberta code on line; loading and requirements are likely quite a bit different than those of the IBC.

Dik

 

[zcp]

Thanks, I had talked to the building dept....ABC1997 applies. It is the NBC with several minor changes (similar to Manitoba). I was looking for some direction as to how different from IBC we are talking. Are the live loads similar for instance? Also, anything peculiar like quirky grounding requirements or impact resistance steel, etc.?

ZCP

http://www.phoenix-engineer.com

 

[dik]

I don't have a copy of the IBC... but, I suspect it is quite a bit different...

dik

 

[Bagman2524]

IBC is not completely clear on LL for industrial platforms. Table 1607.1 lists 100 psf for stairs and 60 psf for platforms, but platforms in IBC typically refer to theaters. IBC does not cover Canada for snow loads or wind loads. The closest areas of the US (north Montana/Idaho have either 30 psf or "case study" for snow loads; 90 mph for wind load (3 sec gust).

 

[lexim]

Hi zcp (Mechanical),

I guess you were told the right things at the building dept but just to add a few lines of caution which you probably already know.
1. The wind load is quite different from IBC and also very important too especially in Alberta where gust can be well over 90km/h.
2. The snow load provisions should be looked into more closely
3. Thermal load may be necessary for consideration if there is any temperature diference expected within the range of 25-30 degrees

Regards

Lexim

 

[dik]

Temperature range in parts of Alberta can be from -40C to +30C.

dik

 

[lexim]

Agree with dik, most of Alberta is between -40C to+30C, if you need anymore tips, keep them coming.
Have a merry christmas all.