Dangerous Parapets

Here is a new type of parapet they are placing on buildings. This structure is Type 2- non combustible construction. These parapets are made from foam and are covered with stucco. They look exactly like the rest of the building; however they are NOT load bearing. You can see in one of the photos here that they even spray paint them with “Do Not Stand here” and “Not Structural Keep Off” Problem is the spray paint fades after a few months. It is very important that you know your first due area!

Now why did this show up on VentEnterSearch.com?

What if you utilized a ground ladder to gain roof access? What would happen to the structural integrity of the parapet after fire vented from a second floor window (hopefully away from your choice of ladder placement.) What about stepping onto the parapet from the bucket while attempting to get the roof?

As Frank always taught us…The building is your enemy, know your enemy. –Jimm-

Additional photos here

1 thought on “Dangerous Parapets

  1. sternd says:

    An old timer I worked with told me always “sound walls before you sound floors”. His point at the time was to sound anything you will put a ladder on with the ladder, and he really did this, one time revealing termite rotted walls that crumbled with a ladder smash!!!! This technique might show something with the foam.

    The attic ladder out of the bucket might be handy here as well.

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