32C-014 (2) FRAWLEY ENGINEERING
CONCLUSIONS
Our visual examination of the fire escape framing did not show any evidence that the fire
escape was not safe. We did not observe any signs of overstress in any of the structural
framing of the fire escape. Also, we did not observe any severe corrosion to any of the
structural framing that would compromise the safety of the fire escape.
Based on the results of our visual structural examination, it is Frawley Engineering's
professional opinion that the steel framing for the original fire escape is in good condition
and structurally sound.
This fire escape has serviced this building for many decades. Therefore, because of its
apparent good condition, we believe that the existing fire escape can continue to be
utilized.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Frawley Engineering recommends the fire escape is properly maintained to keep it in good
condition. The existing fire escape should be cleaned and have any rust removed. Then
the existing fire escape should be painted to prevent any supplementary corrosion. The
embedded structural framing members should be maintained fully grouted and sealed to
prevent any corrosion at the exterior face of the brick bearing wall.
If the fire escape is not maintained and were to deteriorate, a new fire escape meeting the
current MA Code would be required.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to
contact us.
,- %% OF a f � Sincerely,
� a N � ` FRAWLEY ENGINEERING, P.C.
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ifd' �� � r�c l >< ` � Christine B. Frawley, P.E.
President
Copy: FILE
140 Christopher Lane 0 Feeding Hills MA 01030
Tel. 413.786.6334 0 Fax. 413.786.6512
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HDC -01 -08 &7 O/
t
July 18, 2008 J0'
Mr. Mike Frisbie
Hunter Development Company
Post Office Box 366
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Re: Steel fire escape
100 -104 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
Dear Mr. Frisbie:
Frawley Engineering completed our structural condition evaluation of the existing steel fire
escape at your building located at 100 -104 Main Street in Northampton, Massachusetts.
We visually examined the second floor and third floor framing of the existing fire escape
stair for the general condition and safety of the structure.
Note, that because this is an existing fire escape, we did not perform a MA Code review for
the current requirements for new fire escapes. This letter only evaluates the structural
condition based on our visual examination of the fire escape. It is not intended to be a full
MA Code review.
Background
This building is believed to have been constructed in the early 1900's. Rear egress is
provided by the existing steel fire escape (see labeled photo of fire escape attached). The
fire escape is accessed from the third floor through a door. Egress from the third floor of
the fire escape is provided by a ladder to the second floor platform. Access to the fire
escape from the second floor is through a window. Egress from the second floor of the fire
escape is provided by a stair to the neighboring fire escape on the first floor.
Second floor
The second floor fire escape is constructed with structural steel channels and angles. The
steel channel is embedded into the brick bearing wall and cantilevers out to support the
stair. The steel angles form triangular brackets with the top support embedded into the
brick bearing wall. The second floor landing is constructed with steel grating, spanning
approximately 42 ".
The second floor structural steel framing is in good condition with only minimal surface rust
in some spots. The steel grating has a bit more rust, but is still structurally sound.
Third floor
The third floor fire escape is constructed with structural steel angles and steel grating. The
steel angles form triangular brackets that support the landing. The top support is
embedded into the brick bearing wall.
The third floor structural steel framing is also in good condition with only some minor
surface rust. The steel grating has more surface rust, but is still structurally sound.
140 Christopher Lane o Feeding Hills MA 01030
Tel. 413.786.6334 0 Fax. 413.786.6512