Entry and exit aids
Entry and exit aids
What is a roof parapet?
Definition
In architecture, a parapet is an elevation of the exterior wall beyond the edge of the roof designed to conceal the roof. It frames the flat roof. The term parapet is sometimes also used for an upstand at the edge of the flat roof. In the past, the parapet was very high; nowadays we still call it a parapet if it projects 30 to 50 cm above the top storey ceiling.
What is the purpose of a parapet?
Why a parapet?
Besides aesthetic aspects, today there are practical considerations too: the parapet primarily serves to keep accumulated water and precipitation away from the house façade and stop it flowing down. The flat roof parapet also retains gravel and substrate applied as a flat roof covering or as a green area on the flat roof. In addition, waterproofing for the flat roof is attached to the wall overhang of the parapet. However, the parapet is also used as a balustrade or railing to guard against fall hazards. The railing height for the construction sector is specified by national building regulations. These generally require at least 90 cm up to fall heights of 12 m and at least 110 cm for fall heights of more than 12 m. In national workplace legislation, the minimum railing height is 100 cm, or 110 cm for fall heights above 12 m.
What is a roof parapet bridge?
Climbing aid
A roof parapet bridge is a type of entry and exit aid for fixed ladders on buildings (emergency ladders or maintenance ladders). It is designed to provide safe crossing over fire walls or parapets. Depending on the model, design or requirement, two ladder elements are connected by a platform and made safe by railings. Safety doors can provide additional safety, depending on the height of the parapet.
