Standards Australia
LICENCE
Title: AS 2156.2-2001 Walking tracks - Infrastructure design
Licensee: Kathleen T Kingsford
Date: 27 Nov 2003
Conditions of use
(Click here for full conditions of Licence)
This is a licensed electronic copy of a document where copyright is owned or managed by Standards Australia International.
Your licence is a 1 user personal user licence and the document may not be stored, transferred or otherwise distributed on a
network.You may also make one paper copy of this document if required for each licensed user.
WEB SEARCH
Check if current
Find similar documents
StandardsWatch (Info and Login)
Visit our website
AS 2156.2
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
AS 2156.2—2001
Australian Standard™
Walking tracks
Part 2: Infrastructure design
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee CS-029, Walking Track
Signs. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 16 March
2001 and published on 16 March 2001.
The following interests are represented on Committee CS-029:
ACT Parks and Conservation Service
Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council
Australian Industry Group
Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs NSW
Department of Conservation and Land Management Western Australia
Department of Natural Resources (Qld)
Department of Natural Resources and Environment (Victoria)
Environment Protection Agency (Queensland)
Federation of Tasmanian Bushwalking Clubs
Federation of Victorian Walking Clubs
Interagency Working Group, Tasmania
Ministry of Sport and Recreation Western Australia
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
NSW Police Service
Office for Recreation and Sport (SA)
Outdoor Recreation Council of Australia
Scouts Australia
State Forests of New South Wales
Victoria Police
Victorian National Parks Association
Youth Hostels Association of NSW
Additional interests participating in the preparation of this Standard:
University of Newcastle
Keeping Standards up-to-date
Standards are living documents which reflect progress in science, technology and
systems. To maintain their currency, all Standards are periodically reviewed, and
new editions are published. Between editions, amendments may be issued.
Standards may also be withdrawn. It is important that readers assure themselves
they are using a current Standard, which should include any amendments which
may have been published since the Standard was purchased.
Detailed information about Standards can be found by visiting the Standards
Australia web site at www.standards.com.au and looking up the relevant Standard
in the on-line catalogue.
Alternatively, the printed Catalogue provides information current at 1 January each
year, and the monthly magazine, The Australian Standard, has a full listing of
revisions and amendments published each month.
We also welcome suggestions for improvement in our Standards, and especially
encourage readers to notify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies or
ambiguities. Contact us via email at [email protected], or write to the Chief
Executive, Standards Australia International Ltd, GPO Box 5420, Sydney,
NSW 2001.
This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 99196.
AS 2156.2—2001
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Australian Standard™
Walking tracks
Part 2: Infrastructure design
First published as AS 2156.2—2001.
COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia International
All rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the written permission of the
publisher.
Published by Standards Australia International Ltd
GPO Box 5420, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 0 7337 3810 9
AS 2156.2—2001
2
PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee CS-029, Walking Track
Signs. It was prepared in conjunction with AS 2156.1, Walking tracks, Part 1: Classification
and signage, and Committee BD-006, General Design Requirements and Loading on
Structures was consulted during drafting.
The language used and criteria presented in this Standard is aimed at the designer of
structures. The design criteria are varied depending on the track class in which the structure
is to be constructed and the configuration of the structure.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
AS 2156.1 gives a range of track classifications (classes 1 to 6) covering the various
intended uses of tracks in terms of the difficulty and level of skill of intended users. No
design criteria are given for track class 6 due to there being no defined track and, therefore,
if a structure is provided the track class would be 5 by definition.
Walking track structures are simple structures, including boardwalks, pedestrian bridges,
viewing platforms and other similar open, non-habitable structures, provided for the use of
a wide range of visitors.
Together with AS 2156.1, this Standard recognizes that walking tracks are in environments
valued by visitors for their natural and cultural qualities. Management considerations for
choice of the type of structure to be used and decisions made during its general
specification and design will cover the dual objectives of—
(a)
control of the impact of visitors, tracks and track infrastructure on the environment;
and
(b)
provision of access for visitors to the quality of experience they seek, while
recognizing the visitors’ capabilities for safely accessing the points of interest.
There is a wide range of environments and a wide range of visitor capabilities. This
Standard provides a framework to best match the wide range of situations with appropriate
man-made infrastructure.
Risk assessments will determine the need to establish policies and procedures covering
implementation of this Standard (see Appendix A).
The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendix to which is applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and
guidance.
3
AS 2156.2—2001
CONTENTS
Page
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE......................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 OBJECTIVE ................................................................................................................ 4
1.3 APPLICATION ........................................................................................................... 5
1.4 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS................................................................................... 5
1.5 DEFINITIONS............................................................................................................. 5
1.6 NOTATION................................................................................................................. 7
1.7 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 7
SECTION 2 DESIGN OF STRUCTURES
2.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 LIMIT STATE DESIGN.............................................................................................. 8
2.3 LIVE LOADS .............................................................................................................. 8
2.4 LATERAL LOADING ................................................................................................ 9
2.5 SNOW AND ICE EFFECTS ....................................................................................... 9
2.6 DESIGN OF SUPPORTS ............................................................................................ 9
2.7 LIVE LOADS ON BARRIERS ................................................................................... 9
SECTION 3 SAFETY FROM FALLING
3.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................. 11
3.2 PROVISION OF BARRIERS .................................................................................... 11
3.3 ASSESSMENT OF FALL IMPACT SURFACE ....................................................... 12
3.4 BARRIER CONSTRUCTION ................................................................................... 13
SECTION 4 STAIRS AND LADDERS
4.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................. 15
4.2 STAIRS ..................................................................................................................... 15
4.3 LADDERS................................................................................................................. 15
4.4 STAIRWAYS AND LANDINGS .............................................................................. 15
4.5 STILES ...................................................................................................................... 16
APPENDICES
A
BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE FOR THE USE OF THIS
STANDARD.............................................................................................................. 17
B
INTENDED DESIGN LIFE....................................................................................... 19
C
DESIGN FOR LIGHT MAINTENANCE VEHICLES .............................................. 21
4
AS 2156.2—2001
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Walking tracks
Part 2: Infrastructure design
S EC TION
1
S C OP E
AND
G E NER A L
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
1.1 SCOPE
This Standard specifies requirements for the structural design of walking track structures, to
protect natural and cultural assets and for use as aids to recreation in outdoor areas where
the environment is the focus of recreational activities.
The general design of tracks including their layout, environmental management, aesthetics,
and pathway design is not covered by this Standard.
The structural design criteria given in this Standard take into account factors such as
location, expected use and type of recreational opportunity through reference to the track
classifications given in AS 2156.1.
The following structures and parts of structures are covered in this Standard:
(a)
Boardwalks.
(b)
Galleries.
(c)
Pedestrian bridges, including wire crossings.
(d)
Platforms (for viewing).
(e)
Barriers.
(f)
Stairways.
(g)
Ladders.
(h)
Stiles.
This Standard does not cover structures intended to carry livestock (e.g. horses) or vehicles
(including bicycles and light maintenance vehicles).
NOTES:
1
This Standard is intended primarily to be applied to new structures; however, existing
structures may be assessed using the criteria given in this Standard. The track class should be
specified before structural design of new structures commences.
2
For structures such as huts, shelters, barbecues, toilets, vehicle bridges, heritage structures,
lookout towers, jetties and launch ramps, the approving authority should be referred to.
3
Background information and guidance for the use of this Standard is given in Appendix A.
4
Information on durability is given in Appendix B.
5
Information on design for light maintenance vehicles is given in Appendix C.
1.2 OBJECTIVE
The objective of this Standard is to provide designers and builders with design and
construction requirements for non-habitable outdoor structures intended to protect the
environment and to be used as recreational facilities.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
5
AS 2156.2—2001
1.3 APPLICATION
Walking track structures are non-habitable outdoor recreation structures provided for the
purpose of —
(a)
protecting;
(b)
providing a route or part of a route through; and
(c)
enhancing sustainable enjoyment of natural areas.
NOTE: Protection of the environment can include control of—
(a) erosion;
(b) damage to fragile flora, fauna and ecosystems (weed and disease control);
(c) damage to places of heritage and cultural importance;
(d) visual impact; and
(e) social intrusion (e.g. noise, fauna reaction to human presence).
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
1.4 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
AS
1170
1170.1
1170.2
1170.3
1170.4
Minimum design loads on structures (known as SAA Loading Code)
Part 1: Dead and live loads and load combinations
Part 2: Wind loads
Part 3: Snow loads
Part 4: Earthquake loads
1428
1428.1
1428.2
Design for access and mobility
Part 1: General requirements for access—New building work
Part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements—Buildings and facilities
1657
Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders—Design, construction and
installation
AS/NZS
1892
1892.1
1892.2
1892.3
Portable ladders
Part 1: Metal
Part 2: Timber
Part 3: Reinforced plastic
2156
2156.1
Walking tracks
Part 1: Classification and signage
BCA
Building Code of Australia
1.5 DEFINITIONS
1.5.1 Access structure
A structure primarily intended to provide access from one place to another and on which it
is not expected that persons will stop and congregate for viewing.
1.5.2 Barrier
Any fence, handrail, balustrade or similar that restricts or guides access by people.
1.5.3 Boardwalk
A structure consisting of an elevated footway.
NOTE: Boardwalks are typically of low elevation with spans of 1.5 m to 4 m, and usually over a
surface not suitable for construction of a track of high environmental sensitivity.
1.5.4 Cableway
A suspended cable, on which runs a cage or harness, for transportation of goods or people.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
AS 2156.2—2001
6
1.5.5 Deck
The walking surface of a boardwalk, platform, ramp, pedestrian bridge or similar.
1.5.6 Effective fall height
The effective height from deck level to ground taking into account the surface conditions.
(see Section 3).
1.5.7 Foundation
The sub-structure, which transmits the load to the ground and the natural or built-up
formation of rock, soil or subsoil, upon which the structure is supported.
1.5.8 Ladder
A structure with treads or rungs, and with or without handrails or stiles (vertical supports).
1.5.9 Landing
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
An intermediate level in a system of stairways, ramps or ladders.
1.5.10 Live load (imposed action)
The load resulting from the intended use or occupancy of the structure, including
distributed, concentrated, impact and inertial effects, but excluding wind, snow, ice and
earthquake loads.
1.5.11 Pedestrian bridge
A bridge providing access for pedestrians.
1.5.12 Platform
A structure built primarily to allow persons to stop and congregate.
1.5.13 Ramp
A sloping artificial structure, having no risers, to permit access.
1.5.14 Dead load (permanent action)
The load resulting from the effect of gravity acting on permanent components of the
structure.
1.5.15 Stile
A means for pedestrians to cross a fence or similar obstacle.
NOTE: Usually used to avoid the use of a gate.
1.5.16 Stairway
A structure with a series of steps, with or without landings, that provides pedestrian access
from one level to another.
1.5.17 Structure
Organized combination of connected parts designed to provide some measure of resistance
and rigidity against various loads.
1.5.18 Structure deck height
The measurement from deck level to the ground, at the position being assessed.
1.5.19 Suspension bridge
Pedestrian bridge supported by ropes or cables with at least a rudimentary deck.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
7
AS 2156.2—2001
1.5.20 Track
A pedestrian access way on natural ground or fill, with or without an overlaid surface.
NOTE: A track may be formed as a result of the regular passage of people.
1.5.21 Track Class
The class of a walking track as defined in AS 2156.1.
1.5.22 Walking track structures
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Temporary or permanent discrete structures not intended for human habitation on walking
tracks in natural areas, including —
(a)
boardwalks;
(b)
galleries;
(c)
pedestrian bridges, including wire crossings;
(d)
platforms (for viewing);
(e)
stairways;
(f)
ladders; and
(g)
stiles.
NOTE: Accommodation and any ancillary buildings such as toilets are excluded from this
definition.
1.5.23 Wire crossing
A pedestrian bridge having cables only for foothold and handhold.
1.6 NOTATION
The following notation is used in this Standard:
h eff = effective fall height, as calculated in Clause 3.2
hf
= maximum actual fall height within a distance of 2 m from the barrier position
hI
= the impact surface value, as given in Clause 3.3
R
= floor live load reduction, as given in AS 1170.1
Ψ c = live load combination factor, as given in AS 1170.1
Ψ s = short-term live load factor, as given in AS 1170.1
1.7 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
Walking track structures shall provide access, with the appropriate degree of reliability, for
human visitors to natural areas in such a way as to minimize the impact on the environment
and preserve the experience being provided for visitors.
Walking track structures designed in accordance with Sections 2, 3 and 4 of this Standard
shall be deemed to comply with the performance requirements of this Clause.
NOTE: This Clause provides for the use of materials or methods of design or construction not
specifically referred to in this Standard, provided that it can be shown that the resulting structure
is capable of the same or better performance.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
8
AS 2156.2—2001
S EC TION
2
DES IG N
O F
S TR UC TUR ES
2.1 GENERAL
Structures shall be designed in accordance with the applicable Australian Standards.
Design loads shall be as given in the appropriate parts of AS 1170, unless otherwise stated
in this Section.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
NOTES:
1
As far as possible, structures should be of durable materials and configured so that they are
easily maintained. The specification should state the target design life for a structure.
Information on design life is given in Appendix B.
2
It may be necessary to consider the effects of vegetation on the structure, such as tree roots or
falling limbs. The difficulty of access for materials and construction equipment to the site and
the consequent limitations on the standard of workmanship should be taken into account.
2.2 LIMIT STATE DESIGN
2.2.1 Serviceability limit state
The structure as a whole and all its members shall satisfy the serviceability limit state
requirements of the appropriate parts of AS 1170.
For track classes 4 and 5, serviceability limits may be appropriately set to ensure that
deflections will not prove uncomfortable and the structure can absorb the deflections
without causing damage.
Where provided for in the combinations of loads given in AS 1170.1, the short-term load
factor (Ψ s) for the serviceability limit state shall be 1.0.
2.2.2 Strength and stability limit states
The structure as a whole and all its members shall be designed to support the combinations
of factored loads and forces given in AS 1170.1 for strength and stability limit states.
Where provided for in the combinations of loads given in AS 1170.1, the live load
combination factor, for the strength and stability limit states (Ψ c ) shall be as follows:
(a)
0.0 for combination with wind for all track classes where no shelter from wind is
provided by the structure.
(b)
0.3 for combination with earthquake for track classes 1 and 2.
(c)
0.0 for combination with earthquake for track classes 3, 4 and 5.
2.3 LIVE LOADS
Live loads shall be as follows:
(a)
As given in AS 1170.1 for areas for public assembly for track classes 1 and 2.
(b)
A 1.4 kN concentrated load taken over an area of 75 mm by 75 mm, placed at its
known position or, where its position is not known, at the position giving the most
adverse effect, or the following distributed load, whichever gives the most adverse
effect:
(i)
4 kPa for viewing platforms and 3 kPa for access ways for track classes 3 and 4.
(ii)
3 kPa for viewing platforms and 2 kPa for access ways for track class 5.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
9
AS 2156.2—2001
When calculating floor loads using AS 1170.1, the floor live load reduction (R) shall be
taken as 0.
NOTE: The values for floor loads given in this Standard already take into account the likelihood
of crowd loading.
For wire crossings, the live load shall be a line load of 1.1 kN/m on each wire.
The design distributed, uniform line and concentrated live loads shall be considered
separately and the design carried out for whichever gives the more adverse effect.
NOTE: Where construction equipment is using the track and the structures along it, the design
loads should take account of the likely live loading.
2.4 LATERAL LOADING
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Lateral loads shall take into account the effects of wind (see AS 1170.2), earthquake
(see AS 1170.4) and the movement of people. These may all be considered separately. For
the movement of people the lateral load shall be taken as 250 N per m2 of plan area
(0.25 kPa).
NOTE: The specification should state whether flood affects should be taken into account.
2.5 SNOW AND ICE EFFECTS
Snow and ice loads shall be in accordance with AS 1170.3 for the areas given in that
Standard.
Allowances shall be made for the containment of snow trapped between handrails, barriers
and other built impediments. The effect of snow and ice build-up on wind loads shall also
be considered.
2.6 DESIGN OF SUPPORTS
Where the design of the foundation is based on a limit states approach, the load
combinations for the serviceability, strength and stability limit states given in AS 1170.1
shall be used. The short-term load multiplier (Ψ s ) shall be taken as 1.0.
Where the design is based on nominal loads, the nominal loads shall be as specified in
Clauses 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5. These may be considered separately.
NOTE: The natural conditions of rock and soil are part of the design of foundations and supports.
Professional advice (such as a geo-technical investigation) may be necessary for assessing
foundation conditions.
2.7 LIVE LOADS ON BARRIERS
2.7.1 Basic live load
The live load acting on barriers shall be as given in AS 1170.1 for track classifications 1
and 2 and as given in Table 1 for other track classifications.
When designing barriers with infill material, the loads for the top rail and any infill may be
applied separately.
2.7.2 Load combinations for barriers
Barriers shall be designed to support the combinations of factored loads and forces given in
AS 1170.1 except that wind loads, earthquake loads and loads specified in Clause 2.7.1 may
be assumed to act separately and the design is based on the load giving the most adverse
effect.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
10
AS 2156.2—2001
TABLE 1
LIVE LOADS FOR BARRIERS ON UNRESTRICTED LOAD STRUCTURES
Top rail
Track class
Horizontal
kN/m
Vertical
kN/m
Horizontal
kPa
Any direction
kN
Platforms
3, 4 and 5
0.75
0.75
1.0
0.5
Access structures
3, 4 and 5
0.36
0.36
0.75
0.25
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Type of structure
Infill
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
11
SECTION
3
AS 2156.2—2001
SAFETY
FR OM
FA LLIN G
3.1 GENERAL
This Section provides criteria for the provision of barriers, to reduce the risk of falling from
walking track structures.
NOTE: This Standard only covers the provision of barriers on walking track structures. It does
not cover the provision for barriers for steps other than stairways (e.g. scattered steps in long
stretches of pathway). In such cases a risk assessment is recommended.
3.2 PROVISION OF BARRIERS
Barriers of the types given shall be provided on walking track structures where the effective
fall height (heff) exceeds the appropriate value given in Table 2.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
NOTES:
1
Kick rails and kerbs may be provided where appropriate.
2
Barriers should be provided where an opening in a deck creates a fall hazard.
3
The provision of barriers as set out in Table 2 is a minimum requirement only. Barriers in
excess of these requirements may be provided on the basis of a risk assessment.
TABLE 2
ALLOWABLE BARRIER TYPE FOR EFFECTIVE FALL HEIGHT
Track class
h eff
1
2
3
4
5
1
B
C
D*
NONE
NONE
1.5
A
B
C*
D*
NONE
3
A
A
C
C*
E†
*
Barriers may be provided on one side only in these cases.
†
Type E handhold may be placed on the opposite side of the structure to the fall
hazard and may not be continuous.
Effective fall height (h eff) shall be calculated from the following:
h eff = h f + h i
where
hf
= maximum actual fall height within a distance of 2 m from the barrier position
(see Figure 3.1)
hi
= the impact surface value, as given in Clause 3.3
Barrier types shall be as given in Clause 3.4.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
12
AS 2156.2—2001
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
FIGURE 3.1 ILLUSTRATION OF ACTUAL FALL HEIGHT
3.3 ASSESSMENT OF FALL IMPACT SURFACE
The surface at which the height of fall (h f) is measured shall be assessed for the likelihood
of serious harm being caused by the impact (type of surface materials) by taking the value
of h i as given in Table 3.
TABLE 3
FALL SURFACE ASSESSMENT (h i )
Category
Benign
Description
A surface presenting features
that will tend to reduce the
effect of impact.
h I,
m
−0.5
Examples
Deep moss
Soft vegetation
Shallow still water deep enough to cushion a fall
(see Note)
Swamp
Favourable
A surface presenting features
that neither reduce or amplify
the effect of impact
0
Loose gravel
Sand
Deep water with reasonable means of exit
Grass
Unfavourable
A surface presenting features
that will tend to amplify the
effect of impact.
+0.5
Jagged stones
Deep water without reasonable means of exit
Sharp vegetation
Hazardous
A surface presenting features
that will result in serious harm
regardless of the effect of fall to
the initial impact point.
+3.0
Swiftly flowing water without means of exit
Boiling mud or water
Extended falls arising from rolling or sliding,
following initial impact, on terrain whose slope
exceeds 35 degrees. Mitigating factors such as
vegetation likely to arrest rolling shall be taken
into account when assessing extended falls.
NOTE: The height of the fall should be taken into consideration when assessing the risk from falling into
shallow water.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
13
AS 2156.2—2001
3.4 BARRIER CONSTRUCTION
The barrier types given in Table 2 shall be constructed as follows (see also Figure 3.2):
(a)
A Type A barrier shall be a minimum of 1.0 m high and shall have the following:
(i)
No openings anywhere below the top rail which will permit the passage of a
sphere 125 mm in diameter.
(ii)
No components providing a toehold between the heights of 150 mm and
760 mm above deck (or stair nosing) level. Horizontal rails on a barrier are
acceptable if the barrier geometry is such as will prevent children under six
climbing over the top.
(iii) For steps, the triangular opening formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail at
the open side of a stairway shall be such a size that a 125 mm diameter sphere
cannot pass through it.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
(b)
A Type B barrier shall be a minimum of 1.0 m high and shall have the following:
(i)
Openings with maximum dimensions of either 125 mm horizontally (between
vertical balusters) or 125 mm vertically (between intermediate rails).
(ii)
No openings greater than 125 mm between the deck and first horizontal rail.
(iii) For steps, the triangular opening formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail at
the open side of the step shall be such a size that a 125 mm diameter sphere
cannot pass through it.
(c)
A Type C barrier shall have a minimum height of 900 mm, openings with a maximum
clear dimension of 500 mm vertically (between intermediate rails) and 300 mm at the
bottom with no maximum dimension between vertical sections. These barriers may
have infill material if appropriate.
(d)
A Type D barrier shall have a handrail at a minimum height of 900 mm. The handrail
may be solid, or may consist of rope, chain or wire.
(e)
A Type E handhold shall consist of rope, chain, wire or separate handholds.
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
FIGURE 3.2 (in part) TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF BARRIER TYPES
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
AS 2156.2—2001
14
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
FIGURE 3.2 (in part) TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF BARRIER TYPES
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
15
S EC TION
4
S TA IR S
AS 2156.2—2001
AND
LA DDER S
4.1 GENERAL
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
The use of stairs and ladders should be avoided wherever possible. The minimum
construction requirement for stairways and ladders shall be as follows:
(a)
For track classes 1 and 2, stairways shall be in accordance with the BCA.
(b)
Track classes 1 and 2 shall not have ladders.
(c)
Track class 1 shall be generally in accordance with AS 1428.1 and AS 1428.2.
(d)
For track class 3, stairs and ladders shall be as shown in Figure 4.1.
(e)
For track classes 4 and 5, stairs shall be as shown in Figure 4.1 and may only be used
to control potential environmental damage such as erosion, flora damage, etc.
Stairs shall be as given in Clause 4.2 and ladders as given in Clause 4.3, depending on the
limits of slope given in Figure 4.1.
NOTES:
1
Access and mobility should be considered for any track class and a structure for a track that
suits a particular type of access (e.g. wheel chairs) should be designed so as not to create an
unnecessary barrier.
2
Guidance on appropriate widths, arrangements and clearances of stairs and ladders can be
found by reference to AS 1657 and the three parts of AS 1892. AS 1657 covers ladders that
are caged but does not allow for clearances for users wearing backpacks. Where ladders are
caged, visitors may need to be advised on appropriate procedures for raising or lowering
backpacks.
3
In order to satisfy aesthetic considerations, steps may need to be constructed using the natural
materials on the site and may not always be laid out with a regular pitch.
4.2 STAIRS
Treads and their supporting structure shall be designed using the live loads given in
AS 1170.1.
4.3 LADDERS
Each ladder and its fixings shall be designed for a concentrated live load of not less than
1.4 kN or a number of 1.4 kN concentrated live loads, the number of loads and their spacing
being dependent on the expected usage. Ladder stiles shall be spaced between 380 mm and
525 mm apart and rungs shall be spaced not less than 250 mm and not more than 300 mm
apart.
4.4 STAIRWAYS AND LANDINGS
For stairways, the maximum number of steps between landings shall be as given in Table 4.
Landings shall be a minimum of 900 mm long.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
16
AS 2156.2—2001
TABLE 4
NUMBER OF STEPS
Track class
Max. number of steps
between landings
2
18 risers
3
36 risers
4
54 risers
5
no restriction
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
NOTE: 18 risers is the limit given in the BCA.
FIGURE 4.1 LIMITS OF SLOPE
4.5 STILES
Stiles for crossing fences or similar obstacles may be provided only in track classes 3, 4
and 5. Rungs, treads or boards and their supporting structure shall be designed to support
the loads given in Clause 4.2 or 4.3, as appropriate. A vertical hand hold or gripping post
shall be provided to help maintain balance. Stiles shall not exceed 1.2 m in height.
NOTE: Spacings of rungs, treads or boards should be similar to those used for stepladders.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
17
AS 2156.2—2001
APPENDIX A
BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND GUIDANCE FOR THE USE OF
THIS STANDARD
(Informative)
A1 GENERAL
This Standard represents a world first for outdoor recreational facilities, in that specific
design criteria are provided related to the expected use. The provision of 6 track classes in
AS 2156.1 makes the design process easier by providing a predictable and consistent means
of classifying both new and existing tracks.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Compliance with Standards is not obligatory unless the Standard is called up in legislation
or in a contract. This Standard is intended for application to the design of new structures;
however, existing structures may be assessed using the given criteria.
There will be a considerable number of existing structures that may not comply with this
document and strategies should be set for use (i.e. choice of appropriate track classification
or closure of a structure) and priorities established for replacement or strengthening of such
structures that do not comply.
At present, access is not covered by this Standard, except to say that in track class 1 the use
of stairways should take access issues into account (see AS 1428.1 and AS 1428.2). More
detail may be considered in future revisions of the Standard.
A2 SUGGESTED MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
A2.1 Risk and policy considerations
Risk analysis will govern the need to establish policies and procedures covering
implementation of this Standard.
Given the remoteness of many sites and the range of skills and equipment available to
building staff, consideration should be given to the following devices to ensure or facilitate
compliance:
(a)
Field manuals.
(b)
Design certification.
(c)
Certification of construction.
A2.2 Field manuals
This Standard could be used as a basis for the development of typical structure designs (e.g.
field manuals or span tables for boardwalks) for easy use in the field by building staff.
Field manuals provide a range of standard designs with span tables, joint details, footings,
etc. They are generally customized for locally available and preferred materials and cover
simple often repeated structures. They can be produced by an expert so as to provide a
range of complying solutions and given to building staff who, consequently, are not
required to interpret the Standard. Detailed instructions on the use of the manual would
need to be included and staff trained in its use.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
AS 2156.2—2001
18
A2.3 Certification considerations
Certification is provided by qualified professionals and establishes the conformance of the
design (design certificate) or the construction (construction certificate). Certifiers may need
professional indemnity insurance. The use of field manuals does not substitute for the need
for certification.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Design certification may be appropriate for some or all structures and should be considered
where a structure has one or more of the following attributes:
(a)
An effective fall height of 3 m or more.
(b)
A high level of use.
(c)
Difficult foundation conditions.
(d)
A structural form with little or no structural redundancy, e.g. a cantilever.
Construction certification may be in addition to, or instead of, design certification. In the
former case it is required to certify that construction complies with the designer’s
requirements. In the latter case, it should certify that the completed structure conforms with
the requirements of the code and may, therefore, include appropriate structural calculations.
A2.4 Choice of track class and structures
When laying out or planning new work on a track, the choice of track class and the actual
structures to be installed should take into account the expected number and class of visitors
and the recreational opportunities to be provided (see AS 2156.1).
In deciding what structures to use it should be remembered that once a structure is in place,
it may be difficult to remove without damage to the environment (e.g. a cultural site).
The design of elements, choice of materials and colours of structures should cause minimal
adverse visual impact on natural areas or culturally significant sites.
Some factors to consider before structural design may include —
(a)
track classification;
(b)
environment (soils, visual impact, loads, fall height);
(c)
choice of designer and manufacturer;
(d)
asset register details — location (region, park, site);
(e)
expected level of maintenance; and
(f)
details of structure—type of structure, construction details not in drawings, model
numbers, components, grades/sizes of materials, colours, manufacturers.
A2.5 Records
Besides keeping original design information such as drawings, an inspection should be
carried out at completion of the work, building staff consulted and a record kept of any
details that have changed since the design stage.
For the ongoing maintenance of the structure, records such as life control documentation or
log books should be kept for each structure including details of any maintenance work
done, changes made and the results of inspections carried out.
A2.6 Other considerations
Surfaces of decks, ramps and treads should be chosen to minimize slipping. Specific
measures may be necessary to allow for conditions such as the effects of mud, moss, ice or
snow.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
19
AS 2156.2—2001
APPENDIX B
INTENDED DESIGN LIFE
(Informative)
B1 GENERAL
The intended design life of a structure is related to the level of loading expected during the
design life, the natural durability of the materials, and the detailing which may effect rates
of attack by actions such as corrosion, rot or ice.
B2 LOWER DESIGN LIFE
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
It may be appropriate to design for a lower intended life of the structure or components
under certain circumstances such as —
(a)
likelihood of structure being inundated by natural events such as flooding, avalanche
or riverbed movement;
(b)
falling materials such as branches or rocks;
(c)
aggressive corrosive environment such as marine, coastal or volcanic; and
(d)
future likely change of use.
B3 HIGHER DESIGN LIFE
It may be appropriate to design for a higher design life of the structure or components under
certain circumstances such as —
(a)
importance of the structure or component for life safety, to the community (e.g. fire
fighting access) or for access to other structures; and
(b)
benign corrosive environment.
When considering design life, account should be taken of various factors including location,
environment, the possibility of natural catastrophes, and the appropriateness of materials,
construction systems, methods of maintenance and replacement.
Design of structures should take into account the need for —
(i)
access for inspection of components; and
(ii)
the ability to remove elements for inspection and/or replacement without major
dismantling.
Examples of design to allow for inspection include —
(A)
the use of two bolts in a joint allowing one to be withdrawn at a time for replacement
or inspection; and
(B)
bolted handrail connections allowing for easy replacement following damage.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
20
AS 2156.2—2001
B4 RECOMMENDED EXPECTED LIFE
Parts of structures should be designed with the following minimum expected life:
Access level
Durability
Difficult
Moderate
≥ 25 years
15 years
Ready
8–10 years
B5 TIMBER DURABILITY
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Standards include ratings for natural durability of timber species. These ratings are a
general guide based on in-ground data, and may not give a definable life for the material
due to differences in fungal and insect species in different areas. The deterioration of a
specific piece of timber will depend on its—
(a)
exposure to moisture;
(b)
contact with the ground;
(c)
the effect of shading from the sun;
(d)
the prevailing weather conditions;
(e)
the size and position of features such as knots and fissures that encourage moisture
ingress; and
(f)
the type of fungal and insect (e.g. termite) species in the area.
Maintenance schedules should be organized to ensure regular inspection by experienced
timber maintenance staff for structures with exposed and ground contact timber. Special
attention should be given to critical parts of the structure, such as foundations, posts,
beams, floors and barriers.
Guidance on timber species selection may be found by researching what species are used
for parts of local bridges. This should indicate the species known to be durable in the
various uses (e.g. deck, handrail, pile) for the area concerned. Information may also be
obtained from State timber organizations and from CSIRO.
© Standards Australia
www.standards.com.au
21
AS 2156.2—2001
APPENDIX C
DESIGN FOR LIGHT MAINTENANCE VEHICLES
(Informative)
Where structures may be subject to loads from light maintenance vehicles this Appendix
gives guidance on the types of loads that may be experienced.
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
Typical light maintenance vehicles are covered by the following description:
(a)
A vehicle or combination of vehicles having a gross vehicle weight not exceeding
7.2 kN consisting of 3 axle loads of 2.4 kN each, spaced 1500 mm apart.
(b)
Each axle load consists of two wheel loads of 1.2 kN each spaced at 500 mm centre to
centre.
(c)
Each wheel load is applied over a square not greater than 150 mm × 150 mm.
A typical example includes a power carrier or a 4 wheel motor cycle towing a trailer.
Consideration should be taken of increased wheel loads where uneven surfaces may result
in redistribution of loads.
Live loads should be based on the actual vehicle loads expected, including an allowance for
impact. Where the structure is accessible to and wide enough for general road vehicles,
bridge loading and design methods should be used.
Live loads resulting from possible jacking up of vehicles should be taken into account with
an appropriate footprint for punching and shearing of decking being considered.
www.standards.com.au
© Standards Australia
Standards Australia
Standards Australia is an independent company, limited by guarantee, which prepares and publishes
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
most of the voluntary technical and commercial standards used in Australia. These standards are
developed through an open process of consultation and consensus, in which all interested parties are
invited to participate. Through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commonwealth government,
Standards Australia is recognized as Australia’s peak national standards body.
Australian Standards
Australian Standards are prepared by committees of experts from industry, governments, consumers
and other relevant sectors. The requirements or recommendations contained in published Standards are
a consensus of the views of representative interests and also take account of comments received from
other sources. They reflect the latest scientific and industry experience. Australian Standards are kept
under continuous review after publication and are updated regularly to take account of changing
technology.
International Involvement
Standards Australia is responsible for ensuring that the Australian viewpoint is considered in the
formulation of international Standards and that the latest international experience is incorporated in
national Standards. This role is vital in assisting local industry to compete in international markets.
Standards Australia represents Australia at both ISO (The International Organization
for Standardization) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
Electronic Standards
All Australian Standards are available in electronic editions, either downloaded individually from our Web
site, or via on-line and CD ROM subscription services. For more information phone 1300 65 46 46 or
visit us at
www.standards.com.au
Licensed to Kathleen T Kingsford on 27 Nov 2003. 1 user personal user licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.
GPO Box 5420 Sydney NSW 2001
Administration Phone (02) 8206 6000 Fax (02) 8206 6001 Email [email protected]
Customer Service Phone 1300 65 46 46 Fax 1300 65 49 49 Email [email protected]
Internet www.standards.com.au
ISBN 0 7337 3810 9
Printed in Australia