ETL 1110-2-534
30 Sep 94
(2) Engineers should evaluate the results of the
(1) If the results of a structural evaluation indi-
performance load tests on the railings and upgrade or
cate that the railing is grossly inadequate to resist the
replace unsafe railings as necessary.
design load (i.e., less than 65 percent of the design
load), then a load test should be performed on the
railing system to ensure that the railing is capable of
b. New railing systems. All railings for new
withstanding the maximum design load. Specific
construction should be structurally adequate to meet
guidance on field testing of railings, if needed, does
the requirements of EM 385-1-1. Design engineers
not exist, so any required field testing should
should ensure that all welded details are adequate
generally be performed to obtain results consistent
before releasing the plans for fabrication and
with ASTM (1992), which is for laboratory tests.
installation.
After testing, all critical details such as the weld
connecting the aluminum rail post to the base or
connection plate should be carefully inspected.
FOR THE DIRECTOR OF CIVIL WORKS:
Appendix A: Structural Safety Assessment
PAUL D. BARBER, P.E.
of Existing Metal Guardrails
Chief, Engineering Division
Directorate of Civil Works
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