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Code References for Detectable Warnings - Explicit and Implicit

Better Answer: Detectable Warnings are probably required in both places. The local authority for code interpretation is the CBO - Chief Building Official. While there is no explicit code requirement for the detectable warnings, there is a general requirement in IBC 1102 implied by the definitions. This is a complex matter of interpretation - it is the building inspector's judgement call on what is a hazardous location on the "circulation path" requiring detectable warnings.

Answer: Not clear at this time (updated). The Washington State building code (IBC 2003) paragraph 1109.9 does not explicitly require detectable warnings anywhere except at curb ramps and rail transit platforms. The Washington Building code (IBC 2006) removes the explicit requirement for even curb ramps. Per telephone call from the Codes Specialist at the Washington State Building Code Council on August 5, 2008.

Disclaimer: The ADAAG may require detectable warnings that are not required by the building code.

Question: Are detectable warnings required in this industrial park in Clark County, Washington in two places:

1. The sidewalk and the parking lot driveway are flush, no parking is in front of the building. Is a long strip of detectable warning required between the sidewalk and the driveway?

2. Is a detectable warning required across (perpendicular to) the sidewalk before and after each bay garage door? The building garage doors are not on a vehicular way and are not on a public right of way (my opinion). Actual use will depend on the tenant renting the bay.

Note: The accessible route is from either end of the sidewalk, not across the parking driveway.

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Narrative: The Washington Building code (IBC 2003) paragraph 1109.9 does not require detectable warnings except at curb ramps and rail transit platforms. The Washington Building code (IBC 2006) deferrs to the IBC itself for rail transit platforms only, effectively eliminating curb ramps. ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 appears to require detectable warnings at raised marked crossings (crosswalks) in paragraph 406.12.

I checked with a totally blind person about the need for any additional detectable warnings. She did not see the need for any more. She saw no need for warnings either side of the garage door or between the sidewalk and the driveway (if the driveway sloped down from the sidewalk - she would notice the slope and turn back to the sidewalk). Another blind person agreed. Others with shadow vision can detect the color variation between the sidewalk and driveway.

Code References:

Code References for Detectable Warnings - Explicit and Implicit

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