STARDUST

Issue: Interior dimensions of an existing elevator cab.

Analysis: The applicant is requesting a waiver from providing the interior dimensions of an elevator cab in compliance with the code. The project is an existing building that is being converted from apartments to a hotel. The elevator is existing and its hoistway is constrained by structural bearing walls that would make it technically infeasible to enlarge to comply with the current code. A wheelchair user may approach, enter and exit the elevator, but there is insufficient space to turn around once inside.

Project Progress:

The project is in plan review.

Items to be Waived:

Interior elevator dimensions, as required by section 11-4.10.9, Florida Building Code

11-4.10.9 Floor plan ;of elevator cars; The floor area of elevator cars shall provide space for wheelchair users to enter the car, maneuve3r within reach of controls and exit from the cars. Acceptable door opening and inside dimensions shall be as shown in Figure 22.

Waiver Criteria: There is no specific guidance for a waiver of this requirement in the code. The Commission’s current rule, authorized in Section 553.512, Florida Statutes, provides criteria for granting waivers and allows consideration of unnecessary or extreme hardship to the applicant if the specific requirements were imposed.