Under 2021 IMC Section 306.5, a catwalk provides the required access to mechanical equipment on the roof of a commercial building outside Group R-3. What is the minimum catwalk width?
- 24 inches
- B30 inches
- C36 inches
- D42 inches
Where to look it up
https://shop.iccsafe.org/media/wysiwyg/material/4751S21-Sample.pdf
Why A is correct
The roof-equipment-access provision requires a catwalk at least 24 inches wide, with railings as required for service platforms. This width is distinct from the minimum dimensions of the level service platform addressed by the sloped-roof provision. The original reference to IBC 1604.4 did not establish a universal 36-inch roof-walkway width. Source: ICC, 2021 International Solar Energy Provisions, CS306.5 (IMC306.5), printed p.CS3-6, PDF p.6; https://shop.iccsafe.org/media/wysiwyg/material/4751S21-Sample.pdf