Pennsylvania Code
Title 34 - LABOR AND INDUSTRY
Part I - Department of Labor and Industry
Chapter 15 - GRANDSTANDS
RULES OF CONSTRUCTION
Section 15.14 - Design and workmanship

(a) The design of grandstands shall conform to the best modern engineering practice; the design or method of construction shall be in accordance with established principles of mechanics. Prior to granting approval of portable and foldable grandstands, the Department may require that tests be performed under the supervision of a nationally recognized testing laboratory in the presence of a representative of the Department. The test shall be performed upon a full-size, complete structural unit of the grandstand, having the maximum number of rows on which approval is desired. The grandstand being tested shall be loaded, vertically and horizonally, with not less than 1 1/2 times the loads prescribed in § 15.17 (relating to materials). After removal of the loads, no member of the grandstand may show permanent deformation, nor may the connections or bolt holes show permanent deformity.

(b) Workmanship shall be of such quality as to produce in construction the full strength intended by the designer.

(c) A portable grandstand shall be self-contained, including parts necessary to withstand and restrain forces which may develop during human occupancy. The strength, stability or safety of the structure may not depend upon stakes, curbs, walls or other external objects. A foldable grandstand, if permanently attached to the wall of a building, may depend upon the wall for resistance to horizontal loads, but not for the support of vertical loads.

(d) A grandstand may not be occupied until all parts have been securely assembled in accordance with the approved design and specifications.

(e) Grandstands shall be so designed that the maximum expansion, contraction, settlement or misalignment which may occur during the life of the grandstand will not cause stresses in excess of those specified, nor jeopardize the strength or stability of the structure or the safety of its occupants. The owner shall provide and maintain proper bearing surface for outdoor installations.

(f) The owner of a building in which grandstands are to be used shall provide walls and floors of sufficient strength to withstand the loads and stresses caused by the grandstand when loaded, as specified in § 15.17.