Why has fence integration with a segmental retaining wall become such hot topic in recent years?

The International Building Code (IBC) of 2003 has recently been adopted at various levels by 48 states. This code clearly defines that a fence is required where a fall hazard is present. As the code becomes more readily enforced it is easily realized that the construction of a retaining wall creates the very fall hazard that triggers the enforcement of this code. With the primary focus being on wall design and construction it is often not realized that a fence has its own design requirements and to integrate it with the wall those requirements are not achievable with out additional design considerations.