User note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [F] will be considered by the International Fire Code Development Committee during the 2016 (Group B) Code Development Cycle. See explanation on page iv.
Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egresssystem as required by this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egresscomponents required to provide an approvedmeans of egressfrom structures and portions thereof.
It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of exitsor the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egressto less than required by this code.
Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be provided for all occupancies and buildings where required by the International Fire Code. Such fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 401.2 and 404 of the International Fire Code.
The general requirements specified in Sections 1003 through 1015 shall apply to all three elements of the means of egresssystem, in addition to those specific requirements for the exit access, the exitand the exit dischargedetailed elsewhere in this chapter.
Protruding objects are permitted to extend below the minimum ceiling height required by Section 1003.2 where a minimum headroom of 80 inches (2032 mm) is provided over any walking surface, including walks, corridors, aislesand passageways. Not more than 50 percent of the ceiling area of a means of egressshall be reduced in height by protruding objects.
Exception:
Door closers and stops shall not reduce headroom to less than 78 inches (1981 mm).
A barrier shall be provided where the vertical clearance is less than 80 inches (2032 mm) high. The leading edge of such a barrier shall be located 27 inches (686 mm) maximum above the floor.
A free-standing object mounted on a post or pylon shall not overhang that post or pylon more than 4 inches (102 mm) where the lowest point of the leading edge is more than 27 inches (686 mm) and less than 80 inches (2032 mm) above the walking surface. Where a sign or other obstruction is mounted between posts or pylons and the clear distance between the posts or pylons is greater than 12 inches (305 mm), the lowest edge of such sign or obstruction shall be 27 inches (686 mm) maximum or 80 inches (2032 mm) minimum above the finished floor or ground.
Exception:
These requirements shall not apply to sloping portions of handrailsbetween the top and bottom riser of stairsand above the ramp run.
Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the floor shall not project horizontally more than 4 inches (102 mm) into the circulation path.
Exception:Handrails are permitted to protrude 41/2 inches (114 mm) from the wall.
Where changes in elevation of less than 12 inches (305 mm) exist in the means of egress, sloped surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), rampscomplying with Section 1012 shall be used. Where the difference in elevation is 6 inches (152 mm) or less, the rampshall be equipped with either handrailsor floor finish materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.
Exceptions:
A single step with a maximum riser height of 7 inches (178 mm) is permitted for buildings with occupancies in Groups F, H, R-2, R-3, S and U at exterior doors not required to be accessible by Chapter 11.
A stairwith a single riser or with two risers and a tread is permitted at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 where the risers and treads comply with Section 1011.5, the minimum depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and not less than one handrailcomplying with Section 1014 is provided within 30 inches (762 mm) of the centerline of the normal path of egress travel on the stair.
A step is permitted in aislesserving seating that has a difference in elevation less than 12 inches (305 mm) at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11, provided that the risers and treads comply with Section 1029.13 and the aisleis provided with a handrailcomplying with Section 1029.15.
Throughout a story in a Group I-2 occupancy, any change in elevation in portions of the means of egressthat serve nonambulatory persons shall be by means of a rampor sloped walkway.
The path of egress travel along a means of egressshall not be interrupted by a building element other than a means of egresscomponent as specified in this chapter. Obstructions shall not be placed in the minimum width or required capacity of a means of egresscomponent except projections permitted by this chapter. The minimum width or required capacity of a means of egresssystem shall not be diminished along the path of egress travel.
In determining means of egressrequirements, the number of occupants for whom means of egressfacilities are provided shall be determined in accordance with this section.
Where the path of egress travel includes intervening rooms, areas or spaces, cumulative occupant loadsshall be determined in accordance with this section.
Where occupants egress from one or more rooms, areas or spaces through others, the design occupant loadshall be the combined occupant loadof interconnected accessory or intervening spaces. Design of egress path capacity shall be based on the cumulative portion of occupant loadsof all rooms, areas or spaces to that point along the path of egress travel.
That portion of the occupant loadof a mezzaninewith required egress through a room, area or space on an adjacent level shall be added to the occupant loadof that room, area or space.
Other than for the egress components designed for convergence in accordance with Section 1005.6, the occupant loadfrom separate stories shall not be added.
The number of occupants shall be computed at the rate of one occupant per unit of area as prescribed in Table 1004.1.2. For areas without fixed seating, the occupant load shall be not less than that number determined by dividing the floor area under consideration by the occupant loadfactor assigned to the function of the space as set forth in Table 1004.1.2. Where an intended function is not listed in Table 1004.1.2, the building officialshall establish a function based on a listed function that most nearly resembles the intended function.
The occupant loadpermitted in any building, or portion thereof, is permitted to be increased from that number established for the occupancies in Table 1004.1.2, provided that all other requirements of the code are met based on such modified number and the occupant loaddoes not exceed one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m2) of occupiable floor space. Where required by the building official, an approvedaisle, seating or fixed equipment diagram substantiating any increase in occupant loadshall be submitted. Where required by the building official, such diagram shall be posted.
Every room or space that is an assembly occupancy shall have the occupant loadof the room or space posted in a conspicuous place, near the main exitor exit access doorwayfrom the room or space. Posted signs shall be of an approved legible permanent design and shall be maintained by the owner or the owner's authorized agent.
For areas having fixed seats and aisles, the occupant load shall be determined by the number of fixed seats installed therein. The occupant loadfor areas in which fixed seatingis not installed, such as waiting spaces, shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.1.2 and added to the number of fixed seats.
For areas having fixed seatingwithout dividing arms, the occupant loadshall be not less than the number of seats based on one person for each 18 inches (457 mm) of seating length.
The occupant loadof seating booths shall be based on one person for each 24 inches (610 mm) of booth seat length measured at the backrest of the seating booth.
Yards, patios, courtsand similar outdoor areas accessible to and usable by the building occupants shall be provided with means of egressas required by this chapter. The occupant loadof such outdoor areas shall be assigned by the building officialin accordance with the anticipated use. Where outdoor areas are to be used by persons in addition to the occupants of the building, and the path of egress travel from the outdoor areas passes through the building, means of egressrequirements for the building shall be based on the sum of the occupant loadsof the building plus the outdoor areas.
Exceptions:
Outdoor areas used exclusively for service of the building need only have one means of egress.
Where a building contains two or more occupancies, the means of egressrequirements shall apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of that space. Where two or more occupancies utilize portions of the same means of egresssystem, those egress components shall meet the more stringent requirements of all occupancies that are served.
The required capacity, in inches (mm), of the means of egressfor any room, area, space or story shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Sections 1005.3.1 and 1005.3.2:
The capacity, in inches, of means of egresscomponents other than stairwaysshall be calculated by multiplying the occupant loadserved by such component by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.2 inch (5.1 mm) per occupant.
The minimum width or required capacity of the means of egressrequired from any story of a building shall not be reduced along the path of egress travel until arrival at the public way.
Where more than one exit, or access to more than one exit, is required, the means of egressshall be configured such that the loss of any one exit, or access to one exit, shall not reduce the available capacity or width to less than 50 percent of the required capacity or width.
Where the means of egressfrom stories above and below converge at an intermediate level, the capacity of the means of egressfrom the point of convergence shall be not less than the largest minimum width or the sum of the required capacities for the stairwaysor rampsserving the two adjacent stories, whichever is larger.
Doors, when fully opened, shall not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half.
Exceptions:
Surface-mounted latch release hardware shall be exempt from inclusion in the 7-inch maximum (178 mm) encroachment where both of the following conditions exist:
The hardware is mounted to the side of the door facing away from the adjacent wall where the door is in the open position.
The hardware is mounted not less than 34 inches (865 mm) nor more than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.
Handrailprojections shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 1014.8. Other nonstructural projections such as trim and similar decorative features shall be permitted to project into the required width not more than 11/2 inches (38 mm) on each side.
Rooms, areas or spaces, including mezzanines, within a storyor basementshall be provided with the number of exitsor access to exitsin accordance with this section.
Two exit access doorwaysare required in boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms where the area is over 500 square feet (46 m2) and any fuel-fired equipment exceeds 400,000 British thermal units (Btu) (422 000 KJ) input capacity. Where two exit access doorwaysare required, one is permitted to be a fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access doorwaysshall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the room.
Machinery rooms larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) shall have not less than two exitsor exit access doorways. Where two exit access doorwaysare required, one such doorway is permitted to be served by a fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access doorwaysshall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the maximum horizontal dimension of the room.
All portions of machinery rooms shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exitor exit access doorway. An increase in exit accesstravel distance is permitted in accordance with Section 1017.1.
Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel, regardless of the occupant loadserved. Doors shall be tight fitting and self-closing.
Rooms or spaces having a floor area larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m2), containing a refrigerant evaporator and maintained at a temperature below 68°F (20°C), shall have access to not less than two exitsor exit access doorways.
Exit accesstravel distance shall be determined as specified in Section 1017.1, but all portions of a refrigerated room or space shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exitor exit access doorwaywhere such rooms are not protected by an approvedautomatic sprinkler system. Egress is allowed through adjoining refrigerated rooms or spaces.
Exception:
Where using refrigerants in quantities limited to the amounts based on the volume set forth in the International Mechanical Code.
Day care facilities, rooms or spaces where care is provided for more than 10 children that are 21/2 years of age or less, shall have access to not less than two exitsor exit access doorways.
The means of egresssystem serving any storyor occupied roof shall be provided with the number of exitsor access to exitsbased on the aggregate occupant loadserved in accordance with this section. The path of egress travel to an exitshall not pass through more than one adjacent story.
Each storyand occupied roof shall have the minimum number of independent exits, or access to exits, as specified in Table 1006.3.1. A single exitor access to a single exitshall be permitted in accordance with Section 1006.3.2. The required number of exits, or exit access stairwaysor rampsproviding access to exits, from any storyor occupied roof shall be maintained until arrival at the exit dischargeor a public way.
Parking garages where vehicles are mechanically parked shall be permitted to have one exit or access to a single exit.
Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall be permitted to have oneexitor access to a singleexit.
Individual single-story or multistory dwelling unitsshall be permitted to have a single exit or access to a single exitfrom the dwelling unitprovided that both of the following criteria are met:
Where one exit, or exit access stairwayor rampproviding access to exitsat other stories, is permitted to serve individual stories, mixed occupancies shall be permitted to be served by single exitsprovided each individual occupancy complies with the applicable requirements of Table 1006.3.2(1) or 1006.3.2(2) for that occupancy. Where applicable, cumulative occupant loadsfrom adjacent occupancies shall be considered in accordance with the provisions of Section 1004.1. In each storyof a mixed occupancy building, the maximum number of occupants served by a single exitshall be such that the sum of the ratios of the calculated number of occupants of the space divided by the allowable number of occupants indicated in Table 1006.3.2(2) for each occupancy does not exceed one. Where dwelling unitsare located on a story with other occupancies, the actual number of dwelling unitsdivided by four plus the ratio from the other occupancy does not exceed one.
Where two exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairwaysor ramps, or any combination thereof, are required from any portion of the exit access, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served measured in a straight line between them. Interlocking or scissor stairwaysshall be counted as one exitstairway.
Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the separation distance shall be not less than one-third of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the area served.
Where access to three or more exitsis required, not less than two exitor exit access doorwaysshall be arranged in accordance with the provisions of Section 1007.1.1. Additional required exitor exit access doorwaysshall be arranged a reasonable distance apart so that if one becomes blocked, the others will be available.
The means of egressserving a room or space shall be illuminated at all times the room or space is occupied. The required illumination at the exit discharge shall illuminate the path of egress travel for a distance not less than 30 feet measured from the center of the exit discharge door.
The means of egressillumination level shall be not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the walking surface.
Exception: For auditoriums, theaters, concert or opera halls, and similar assembly occupancies, the illumination at the walking surface is permitted to be reduced during performances by one of the following methods if the required illumination is automatically restored upon activation of a premises' fire alarm system:
Externally illuminated walking surfaces shall be permitted to be illuminated to not less than 0.2 foot-candle (2.15 lux).
Steps, landings, and the sides of ramps shall be permitted to be marked with self-luminous materials in accordance with Sections 1025.2.1, 1025.2.2, and 1025.2.4 by systems listed in accordance with UL 1994.
In the event of power supply failure in rooms and spaces that require two or more means of egress, an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate all of the following areas:
In the event of power supply failure in buildings that require two or more means of egress, an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate all of the following areas:
The emergency power system shall provide power for a duration of not less than 90 minutes and shall consist of storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Section 2702.
Emergency lighting facilities shall be arranged to provide initial illumination that is not less than an average of 1 footcandle (11 lux) and a minimum at any point of 0.1 footcandle (1 lux) measured along the path of egress at floor level. Illumination levels shall be permitted to decline to 0.6 footcandle (6 lux) average and a minimum at any point of 0.06 footcandle (0.6 lux) at the end of the emergency lighting time duration. A maximum-to-minimum illumination uniformity ratio of 40 to 1 shall not be exceeded. In Group I-2 occupancies, failure of any single lighting unit shall not reduce the illumination level to less than 0.2 foot-candle (2.2 lux).
The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrailsis not required for stairwaysaccessed from a refuge area in conjunction with a horizontal exit.
In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an elevator shall comply with the emergency operation and signaling device requirements of Section 2.27 of ASME A17.1/CSA B44. Standby power shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 27 and Section 3003. The elevator shall be accessed from an area of refugecomplying with Section 1009.6.
The maximum travel distance from any accessible space to an area of refugeshall not exceed the exit accesstravel distance permitted for the occupancy in accordance with Section 1017.1.
Exterior walls separating the exterior area of assisted rescue from the interior of the building shall have a minimum fire-resistance ratingof 1 hour, rated for exposure to fire from the inside. The fire-resistance-rated exterior wall construction shall extend horizontally 10 feet (3048 mm) beyond the landing on either side of the landing or equivalent fire-resistance-rated construction is permitted to extend out perpendicular to the exterior wall 4 feet (1220 mm) minimum on the side of the landing. The fire-resistance-rated construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor level of the area for assisted rescue or to the roof line, whichever is lower. Openings within such fire-resistance-rated exterior walls shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.
The exterior area for assisted rescue shall be open to the outside air. The sides other than the separation walls shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area shall be distributed so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.
Stairwaysthat are part of the means of egressfor the exterior area for assisted rescue shall provide a clear width of 48 inches (1220 mm) between handrails.
A two-way communication system complying with Sections 1009.8.1 and 1009.8.2 shall be provided at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.
Exceptions:
Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators where the two-way communication system is provided within areas of refugein accordance with Section 1009.6.5.
Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with rampsconforming to the provisions of Section 1012.
Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only service elevators that are not designated as part of the accessible means of egressor serve as part of the required accessible routeinto a facility.
Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only freight elevators.
Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving a private residence elevator.
Two-way communication systems shall provide communication between each required location and the fire command centeror a central control point location approvedby the fire department. Where the central control point is not a constantly attended location, a two-way communication system shall have a timed automatic telephone dial-out capability to a monitoring location or 9-1-1. The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals.
Directions for the use of the two-way communication system, instructions for summoning assistance via the two-way communication system and written identification of the location shall be posted adjacent to the two-way communication system. Signage shall comply with the ICC A117.1 requirements for visual characters.
Signage indicating special accessibility provisions shall be provided as shown:
Each door providing access to an area of refugefrom an adjacent floor area shall be identified by a sign stating: AREA OF REFUGE.
Each door providing access to an exterior area for assisted rescue shall be identified by a sign stating: EXTERIOR AREA FOR ASSISTED RESCUE.
Signage shall comply with the ICC A117.1requirements for visual characters and include the International Symbol of Accessibility. Where exit sign illumination is required by Section 1013.3, the signs shall be illuminated. Additionally, visual characters, raised character and braille signage complying with ICC A117.1 shall be located at each door to an area of refugeand exterior area for assisted rescue in accordance with Section 1013.4.
In areas of refugeand exterior areas for assisted rescue, instructions on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted. Signage shall comply with the ICC A117.1 requirements for visual characters. The instructions shall include all of the following:
Persons able to use the exitstairwaydo so as soon as possible, unless they are assisting others.
Information on planned availability of assistance in the use of stairs or supervised operation of elevators and how to summon such assistance.
Directions for use of the two-way communication system where provided.
Means of egressdoors shall meet the requirements of this section. Doors serving a means of egresssystem shall meet the requirements of this section and Section 1022.2. Doors provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall meet the requirements of this section.
Means of egressdoors shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egressdoors. Means of egressdoors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.
The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant loadthereof and shall provide a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm). Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The maximum width of a swinging door leaf shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of egressdoors in a Group I-2 occupancy used for the movement of beds shall provide a clear width not less than 411/2 inches (1054 mm). The height of door openings shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).
Exceptions:
The minimum and maximum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egressin Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies.
Door openings to resident sleeping unitsin Group I-3 occupancies shall have a clear width of not less than 28 inches (711 mm).
Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in area shall not be limited by the minimum width.
Width of door leaves in revolving doors that comply with Section 1010.1.4.1 shall not be limited.
Door openings within a dwelling unitor sleeping unitshall be not less than 78 inches (1981 mm) in height.
Exterior door openings in dwelling unitsand sleeping units, other than the required exitdoor, shall be not less than 76 inches (1930 mm) in height.
There shall not be projections into the required clear width lower than 34 inches (864 mm) above the floor or ground. Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) above the floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm).
Exception:
Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the floor.
Doors serving a bathroom within an individual sleeping unitin Group R-1.
In other than Group H occupancies, manually operated horizontal sliding doors are permitted in a means of egressfrom spaces with an occupant loadof 10 or less.
Pivot or side-hinged swinging doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel where serving a room or area containing an occupant load of 50 or more persons or a Group H occupancy.
The force for pushing or pulling open interior swinging egress doors, other than fire doors, shall not exceed 5 pounds (22 N). These forces do not apply to the force required to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices that hold the door in a closed position. For other swinging doors, as well as sliding and folding doors, the door latch shall release when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force. The door shall be set in motion when subjected to a 30-pound (133 N) force. The door shall swing to a full-open position when subjected to a 15-pound (67 N) force.
Revolving doors shall comply with BHMA A156.27 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Each revolving door shall be capable of breakoutin accordance with BHMA A156.27 and shall provide an aggregate width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
A revolving door shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the foot or top of stairwaysor escalators. A dispersal area shall be provided between the stairwaysor escalators and the revolving doors.
The revolutions per minute (rpm) for a revolving door shall not exceed the maximum rpm as specified in BHMA A156.27. Manual revolving doors shall comply with Table 1010.1.4.1(1). Automatic or power-operated revolving doors shall comply with Table 1010.1.4.1(2).
An emergency stop switch shall be provided near each entry point of power or automatic operated revolving doors within 48 inches (1220 mm) of the door and between 24 inches (610 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) above the floor. The activation area of the emergency stop switch button shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter and shall be red.
Each revolving door shall have a side-hinged swinging door that complies with Section 1010.1 in the same wall and within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the revolving door.
A revolving door used as other than a component of a means of egressshall comply with Section 1010.1.4.1. The breakoutforce of a revolving door not used as a component of a means of egressshall not be more than 180 pounds (801 N).
Exception:
A breakoutforce in excess of 180 pounds (801 N) is permitted if the collapsing force is reduced to not more than 130 pounds (578 N) when not less than one of the following conditions is satisfied:
There is a power failure or power is removed to the device holding the door wings in position.
There is an actuation of a smoke detection system that is installed in accordance with Section 907 to provide coverage in areas within the building that are within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of the revolving doors.
There is an actuation of a manual control switch, in an approved location and clearly identified, that reduces the breakoutforce to not more than 130 pounds (578 N).
Where means of egressdoors are operated or assisted by power, the design shall be such that in the event of power failure, the door is capable of being opened manually to permitmeans of egresstravel or closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not exceed those specified in Section 1010.1.3, except that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50 pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of swinging open from any position to the full width of the opening in which such door is installed when a force is applied to the door on the side from which egress is made. Power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors and power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted swinging doors and low-energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19.
For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1010.1.1, provided a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out.
In other than Group H occupancies, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egressin accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:
The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
The doors shall be openable by a simple method from both sides without special knowledge or effort.
The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device.
The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection ratingand, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.5.9.3, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716.
The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply.
The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised.
The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.
In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exitand shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more means of egressare required, not more than one-half of the exitsor exit access doorwaysshall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.
There shall be a floor or landing on each side of a door. Such floor or landing shall be at the same elevation on each side of the door. Landings shall be level except for exterior landings, which are permitted to have a slope not to exceed 0.25 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
Exceptions:
Doors serving individual dwelling unitsin Groups R-2 and R-3 where the following apply:
A door is permitted to open at the top step of an interior flightof stairs, provided the door does not swing over the top step.
Screen doors and storm doors are permitted to swing over stairsor landings.
In Group R-3 occupancies not required to be Accessible units, Type A unitsor Type B units, the landing at an exterior doorway shall be not more than 73/4 inches (197 mm) below the top of the threshold, provided the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door, does not swing over the landing.
Variations in elevation due to differences in finish materials, but not more than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm).
Exterior decks, patios or balconies that are part of Type B dwelling units, have impervious surfaces and that are not more than 4 inches (102 mm) below the finished floor level of the adjacent interior space of the dwelling unit.
Doors serving equipment spaces not required to be accessible in accordance with Section 1103.2.9 and serving an occupant load of five or less shall be permitted to have a landing on one side to be not more than 7 inches (178 mm) above or below the landing on the egress side of the door.
Landings shall have a width not less than the width of the stairwayor the door, whichever is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a required dimension by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Where a landing serves an occupant loadof 50 or more, doors in any position shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half its required width. Landings shall have a length measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm).
Exception:
Landing length in the direction of travel in Groups R-3 and U and within individual units of Group R-2 need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm).
Thresholds at doorways shall not exceed 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) in height above the finished floor or landing for sliding doors serving dwelling units or 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) above the finished floor or landing for other doors. Raised thresholds and floor level changes greater than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) at doorways shall be beveled with a slope not greater than one unit vertical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope).
Exceptions:
In occupancy Group R-2 or R-3, threshold heights for sliding and side-hinged exterior doors shall be permitted to be up to 73/4 inches (197 mm) in height if all of the following apply:
In Type B units, where Exception 5 to Section 1010.1.5permits a 4-inch (102 mm) elevation change at the door, the threshold height on the exterior side of the door shall not exceed 43/4 inches (120 mm) in height above the exterior deck, patio or balcony for sliding doors or 41/2 inches (114 mm) above the exterior deck, patio or balcony for other doors.
Space between two doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum plus the width of a door swinging into the space. Doors in a series shall swing either in the same direction or away from the space between the doors.
Exceptions:
The minimum distance between horizontal sliding power-operated doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm).
Storm and screen doors serving individual dwelling unitsin Groups R-2 and R-3 need not be spaced 48 inches (1219 mm) from the other door.
Except as specifically permitted by this section, egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices on doors required to be accessible by Chapter 11 shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate.
Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor. Locks used only for security purposes and not used for normal operation are permitted at any height.
Exception: Access doors or gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finished floor or ground, provided the self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices operated by means of a key, electronic opener or integral combination lock.
Locks and latches shall be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of the following exist:
Places of detention or restraint.
In buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant loadof 300 or less, Groups B, F, M and S, and in places of religious worship, the main door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided:
The locking device is readily distinguishable as locked.
A readily visible durable sign is posted on the egress side on or adjacent to the door stating: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THIS SPACE IS OCCUPIED. The sign shall be in letters 1 inch (25 mm) high on a contrasting background.
The use of the key-operated locking device is revocable by the building officialfor due cause.
Where egress doors are used in pairs, approvedautomatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be used, provided that the door leaf having the automatic flush bolts does not have a doorknob or surface-mounted hardware.
Doors from individual dwellingor sleeping unitsof Group R occupancies having an occupant loadof 10 or less are permitted to be equipped with a night latch, dead bolt or security chain, provided such devices are openable from the inside without the use of a key or tool.
Fire doorsafter the minimum elevated temperature has disabled the unlatching mechanism in accordance with listed fire doortest procedures.
Where a pair of doors serves a storage or equipment room, manually operated edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf.
Where a pair of doors serves an occupant loadof less than 50 persons in a Group B, F or S occupancy, manually operated edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf. The inactive leaf shall not contain doorknobs, panic bars or similar operating hardware.
Where a pair of doors serves a Group B, F or S occupancy, manually operated edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf provided such inactive leaf is not needed to meet egress capacity requirements and the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. The inactive leaf shall not contain doorknobs, panic bars or similar operating hardware.
Where a pair of doors serves patient care rooms in Group I-2 occupancies, self-latching edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf provided that the inactive leaf is not needed to meet egress capacity requirements and the inactive leaf shall not contain doorknobs, panic bars or similar operating hardware.
In Group R-4 occupancies, closet doors that latch in the closed position shall be openable from inside the closet, and bathroom doors that latch in the closed position shall be capable of being unlocked from the ingress side.
Electric locking systems, including electromechanical locking systems and electromagnetic locking systems, shall be permitted to be locked in the means of egress in Group I-1 or I-2 occupancies where the clinical needs of persons receiving care require their containment. Controlled egress doors shall be permitted in such occupancies where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or an approvedautomatic smoke or heat detection system installed in accordance with Section 907, provided that the doors are installed and operate in accordance with all of the following:
The door locks shall unlock on loss of power controlling the lock or lock mechanism.
The door locking system shall be installed to have the capability of being unlocked by a switch located at the fire command center, a nursing station or other approved location. The switch shall directly break power to the lock.
A building occupant shall not be required to pass through more than one door equipped with a controlled egress locking system before entering an exit.
The procedures for unlocking the doors shall be described and approved as part of the emergency planning and preparedness required by Chapter 4 of the International Fire Code.
All clinical staff shall have the keys, codes or other means necessary to operate the locking systems.
Emergency lighting shall be provided at the door.
The door locking system units shall be listed in accordance with UL 294.
Exceptions:
Items 1 through 4 shall not apply to doors to areas occupied by persons who, because of clinical needs, require restraint or containment as part of the function of a psychiatric treatment area.
Items 1 through 4 shall not apply to doors to areas where a listed egress control system is utilized to reduce the risk of child abduction from nursery and obstetric areas of a Group I-2 hospital.
Delayed egress locking systems shall be permitted to be installed on doors serving any occupancy except Group A, Group E, and Group H in buildings that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or an approvedautomatic smoke or heat detection system installed in accordance with Section 907. The locking system shall be installed and operated in accordance with all of the following:
The delay electronics of the delayed egress locking system shall deactivate upon actuation of the automatic sprinkler systemor automatic fire detection system, allowing immediate, free egress.
The delay electronics of the delayed egress locking system shall deactivate upon loss of power controlling the lock or lock mechanism, allowing immediate free egress.
The delayed egress locking system shall have the capability of being deactivated at the fire command centerand other approvedlocations.
An attempt to egress shall initiate an irreversible process that shall allow such egress in not more than 15 seconds when a physical effort to exit is applied to the egress side door hardware for not more than 3 seconds. Initiation of the irreversible process shall activate an audible signal in the vicinity of the door. Once the delay electronics have been deactivated, rearming the delay electronics shall be by manual means only.
Exception: Where approved, a delay of not more than 30 seconds is permitted on a delayed egress door.
The egress path from any point shall not pass through more than one delayed egress locking system.
Exception: In Group I-2 or I-3 occupancies, the egress path from any point in the building shall pass through not more than two delayed egress locking systems provided the combined delay does not exceed 30 seconds.
A sign shall be provided on the door and shall be located above and within 12 inches (305 mm) of the door exit hardware:
For doors that swing in the direction of egress, the sign shall read: PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 [30] SECONDS.
For doors that swing in the opposite direction of egress, the sign shall read: PULL UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 [30] SECONDS.
The sign shall comply with the visual character requirements in ICC A117.1.
Exception: Where approved, in Group I occupancies, the installation of a sign is not required where care recipients who because of clinical needs require restraint or containment as part of the function of the treatment area.
Emergency lighting shall be provided on the egress side of the door.
The delayed egress locking system units shall be listed in accordance with UL 294.
Judicial centers under the control of the Administrative Office of the Courts that have an egress door located along the path of travel that enters a judge's suite, chambers, or area shall be allowed to be controlled by delayed egress locks subject to the provisions of Section 1010.1.9.7, items 1 through 8.
Group E day care centers licensed by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services shall be allowed to have egress doors controlled by delayed egress locks subject to the provisions of Section 1010.1.9.7, items 1 through 8.
The electric locks on sensor released doors located in a means of egress in buildings with an occupancy in Group A, B, E, I-1, I-2, I-4, M, R-1 or R- 2 and entrance doors to tenant spaces in occupancies in Group A, B, E, I-1, I-2, I-4, M, R-1 or R-2 are permitted where installed and operated in accordance with all of the following criteria:
The sensor shall be installed on the egress side, arranged to detect an occupant approaching the doors. The doors shall be arranged to unlock by a signal from or loss of power to the sensor.
Loss of power to the lock or locking system shall automatically unlock the doors.
The doors shall be arranged to unlock from a manual unlocking device located 40 inches to 48 inches (1016 mm to 1219 mm) vertically above the floor and within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the secured doors. Ready access shall be provided to the manual unlocking device and the device shall be clearly identified by a sign that reads "PUSH TO EXIT." When operated, the manual unlocking device shall result in direct interruption of power to the lock—independent of other electronics—and the doors shall remain unlocked for not less than 30 seconds.
Activation of the building fire alarm system, where provided, shall automatically unlock the doors, and the doors shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm system has been reset.
Activation of the building automatic sprinkler systemor fire detection system, where provided, shall automatically unlock the doors. The doors shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm systemhas been reset.
The door locking system units shall be listed in accordance with UL 294.
Doors in the means of egressin buildings with an occupancy in Group A, B, E, I-1, I-2, I-4, M, R-1 or R-2 and doors to tenant spaces in Group A, B, E, I-1, I-2, I-4, M, R-1 or R-2 shall be permitted to be locked with an electromagnetic locking system where equipped with hardware that incorporates a built-in switch and where installed and operated in accordance with all of the following:
The hardware that is affixed to the door leaf has an obvious method of operation that is readily operated under all lighting conditions.
The hardware is capable of being operated with one hand.
Operation of the hardware directly interrupts the power to the electromagnetic lock and unlocks the door immediately.
Loss of power to the locking system automatically unlocks the door.
In occupancies in Groups A-2, A-3, A-4, B, E, F, I-2, I-3, M and S within correctional and detention facilities, doors in means of egressserving rooms or spaces occupied by persons whose movements are controlled for security reasons shall be permitted to be locked where equipped with egress control devices that shall unlock manually and by not less than one of the following means:
Interior stairwaymeans of egressdoors shall be openable from both sides without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
Exceptions:
Stairwaydischarge doors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side.
This section shall not apply to doors arranged in accordance with Section 403.5.3.
In stairwaysserving not more than four stories, doors are permitted to be locked from the side opposite the egress side, provided they are openable from the egress side and capable of being unlocked simultaneously without unlatching upon a signal from the fire command center, if present, or a signal by emergency personnel from a single location inside the main entrance to the building.
Stairwayexitdoors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side in Group B, F, M and S occupancies where the only interior access to the tenant space is from a single exitstairwaywhere permitted in Section 1006.3.2.
Stairwayexitdoors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side in Group R-2 occupancies where the only interior access to the dwelling unitis from a single exitstairwaywhere permitted in Section 1006.3.2.
Doors serving a Group A or E occupancy shall be permitted to be electromagnetically locked in accordance with Section 1010.1.9.9.
Electrical rooms with equipment rated 1,200 amperes or more and over 6 feet (1829 mm) wide, and that contain overcurrent devices, switching devices or control devices with exitor exit access doors, shall be equipped with panic hardwareor fire exit hardware. The doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel.
If balanced doorsare used and panic hardwareis required, the panic hardwareshall be the push-pad type and the pad shall not extend more than one-half the width of the door measured from the latch side.
Gates serving the means of egresssystem shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egressshall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.
Exception:
Horizontal sliding or swinging gates exceeding the 4-foot (1219 mm) maximum leaf width limitation are permitted in fences and walls surrounding a stadium.
Panic hardwareis not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m2) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egressfrom safe dispersal areas.
Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress.
Exception:
Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited with a capacity based on not more than a 50-person occupant loadwhere all of the following provisions are met:
Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress travel when primary power is lost and on the manual release by an employee in the area.
Such devices are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width.
Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm) high.
Each device has not less than 161/2 inches (419 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm) and not less than 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights above 39 inches (991 mm).
Where located as part of an accessible route, turnstiles shall have not less than 36 inches (914 mm) clear at and below a height of 34 inches (864 mm), not less than 32 inches (813 mm) clear width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) and shall consist of a mechanism other than a revolving device.
Where serving an occupant loadgreater than 300, each turnstile that is not portable shall have a side-hinged swinging door that conforms to Section 1010.1 within 50 feet (15 240 mm).
Where an incline platform lift or stairway chairlift is installed on stairwaysserving occupancies in Group R-3, or within dwelling unitsin occupancies in Group R-2, a clear passage width not less than 20 inches (508 mm) shall be provided. Where the seat and platform can be folded when not in use, the distance shall be measured from the folded position.
Stairwaysshall have a headroom clearance of not less than 80 inches (2032 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the edge of the nosings. Such headroom shall be continuous above the stairwayto the point where the line intersects the landing below, one tread depth beyond the bottom riser. The minimum clearance shall be maintained the full width of the stairwayand landing.
In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; where the nosingsof treads at the side of a flightextend under the edge of a floor opening through which the stairpasses, the floor opening shall be allowed to project horizontally into the required headroom not more than 43/4 inches (121 mm).
The walkline across windertreads shall be concentric to the direction of travel through the turn and located 12 inches (305 mm) from the side where the windersare narrower. The 12-inch (305 mm) dimension shall be measured from the widest point of the clear stairwidth at the walking surface of the winder. Where windersare adjacent within the flight, the point of the widest clear stairwidth of the adjacent windersshall be used.
Stairriser heights shall be 7 inches maximum (178 mm) and 4 inches (102 mm) minimum. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the nosingsof adjacent treads. Rectangular tread depths shall be 11 inches (279 mm) minimum measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread's nosing. Windertreads shall have a minimum tread depth of 11 inches (279 mm) between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads at the intersections with the walkline and a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm) within the clear width of the stair.
In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; the maximum riser height shall be 81/4 inches (210 mm); the minimum tread depth shall be 9 inches (229 mm); the minimum winder tread depth at the walkline shall be 10 inches (254 mm); and the minimum winder tread depth shall be 6 inches (152 mm). A nosing projection not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) but not more than 11/4 inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairwayswith solid risers where the tread depth is less than 11 inches (279 mm).
See Section 403.1 of the International Existing Building Code for the replacement of existing stairways.
In Group I-3facilities, stairways providing access to guard towers, observation stations, and control rooms, not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) in area, shall be permitted to have a maximum riser height of 8 inches (203 mm) and a minimum tread depth of 9 inches (229 mm).
Stairways providing access into or from swimming pools, spas, or baptisteries with the tread surface entirely below water shall have treads and risers that conform to the following:
Step treads shall have a minimum unobstructed horizontal depth of 10 inches (254 mm) and a minimum unobstructed surface area of 240 square inches (0.15 m2).
Risers shall have a maximum uniform height of 12 inches (305 mm) as measured at the centerline of the tread. The height of the bottom riser shall not vary more than plus or minus 2 inches (51 mm) from the uniform riser height.
Stair treads and risers shall be of uniform size and shape. The tolerance between the largest and smallest riser height or between the largest and smallest tread depth shall not exceed 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) in any flightof stairs. The greatestwinder tread depth at the walkline within any flightof stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).
Where the bottom or top riser adjoins a sloping public way, walkway or driveway having an established grade and serving as a landing, the bottom or top riser is permitted to be reduced along the slope to less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height, with the variation in height of the bottom or top riser not to exceed one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8-percent slope) of stairwidth. The nosingsor leading edges of treads at such nonuniform height risers shall have a distinctive marking stripe, different from any other nosingmarking provided on the stairflight. The distinctive marking stripe shall be visible in descent of the stairand shall have a slip-resistant surface. Marking stripes shall have a width of not less than 1 inch (25 mm) but not more than 2 inches (51 mm).
Nosingsshall have a curvature or bevel of not less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) but not more than 9/16 inch (14.3 mm) from the foremost projection of the tread. Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped under the tread above from the underside of the nosingabove at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical.
Nosingprojections of the leading edges shall be of uniform size, including the projections of the nosing's leading edge of the floor at the top of a flight.
Solid risers are not required for stairwaysthat are not required to comply with Section 1009.3, provided that the opening between treads does not permit the passage of a sphere with a diameter of 4 inches (102 mm).
Solid risers are not required for occupancies in Group I-3 or in Group F, H and S occupancies other than areas accessible to the public. There are no restrictions on the size of the opening in the riser.
There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of landings shall be not less than the width of stairwaysserved. Every landing shall have a minimum width measured perpendicular to the direction of travel equal to the width of the stairway. Where the stairwayhas a straight run the depth need not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm). Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half the required width. When fully open, the door shall not project more than 7 inches (178 mm) into a landing. Where wheelchair spacesare required on the stairwaylanding in accordance with Section 1009.6.3, the wheelchair spaceshall not be located in the required width of the landing and doors shall not swing over the wheelchair spaces.
Stairwaysshall be built of materials consistent with the types permitted for the type of construction of the building, except that wood handrails shall be permitted for all types of construction.
The walking surface of treads and landings of a stairwayshall not be sloped steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in any direction. Stairwaytreads and landings shall have a solid surface. Finish floor surfaces shall be securely attached.
Exceptions:
Openings in stair walking surfaces shall be a size that does not permit the passage of 1/2-inch-diameter (12.7 mm) sphere. Elongated openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the direction of travel.
In Group F, H and S occupancies, other than areas of parking structures accessible to the public, openings in treads and landings shall not be prohibited provided a sphere with a diameter of 11/8 inches (29 mm) cannot pass through the opening.
The walls and soffits within enclosed usable spaces under enclosed and unenclosed stairways shall be protected by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or the fire-resistance rating of the stairway enclosure, whichever is greater. Access to the enclosed space shall not be directly from within the stairway enclosure.
Exception:
Spaces under stairwaysserving and contained within a single residential dwelling unit in Group R-2 or R-3 shall be permitted to be protected on the enclosed side with 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
There shall not be enclosed usable space under exterior exit stairwaysunless the space is completely enclosed in 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. The open space under exterior stairwaysshall not be used for any purpose.
Curved stairways with winder treads shall have treads and risers in accordance with Section 1011.5 and the smallest radius shall be not less than twice the minimum width or required capacity of the stairway.
Exception:
The radius restriction shall not apply to curved stairways in Group R-3 and within individual dwelling units in Group R-2.
A spiral stairwayshall have a 71/2-inch (191 mm) minimum clear tread depth at a point 12 inches (305 mm) from the narrow edge. The risers shall be sufficient to provide a headroom of 78 inches (1981 mm) minimum, but riser height shall not be more than 91/2 inches (241 mm). The minimum stairwayclear width at and below the handrailshall be 26 inches (660 mm).
Decks, patios and walkways that have a single change in elevation where the landing depth on each side of the change of elevation is greater than what is required for a landing do not require handrails.
In Group R-3 occupancies, a change in elevation consisting of a single riser at an entrance or egress door does not require handrails.
In buildings four or more stories above grade plane, one stairway shall extend to the roof surface unless the roof has a slope steeper than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope).
Exception:
Other than where required by Section 1011.12.1, in buildings without an occupied roof access to the roof from the top story shall be permitted to be by an alternating tread device, a ships ladder or a permanent ladder.
Where a stairway is provided to a roof, access to the roof shall be provided through a penthouse complying with Section 1510.2.
Exception:
In buildings without an occupied roof, access to the roof shall be permitted to be a roof hatch or trap door not less than 16 square feet (1.5 m2) in area and having a minimum dimension of 2 feet (610 mm).
Guards shall be provided along stairways and landings where required by Section 1015 and shall be constructed in accordance with Section 1015. Where the roof hatch opening providing the required access is located within 10 feet (3049 mm) of the roof edge, such roof access or roof edge shall be protected by guards installed in accordance with Section 1015.
Alternating tread devices are limited to an element of a means of egress in buildings of Groups F, H and S from a mezzanine not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) in area and that serves not more than five occupants; in buildings of Group I-3 from a guard tower, observation station or control room not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) in area and for access to unoccupied roofs. Alternating tread devices used as a means of egress shall not have a rise greater than 20 feet (6096 mm) between floor levels or landings.
Alternating tread devices shall have a minimum tread depth of 5 inches (127 mm), a minimum projected tread depth of 81/2 inches (216 mm), a minimum tread width of 7 inches (178 mm) and a maximum riser height of 91/2 inches (241 mm). The tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projections of adjacent treads. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading edges of adjacent treads. The riser height and tread depth provided shall result in an angle of ascent from the horizontal of between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and 1.22 rad). The initial tread of the device shall begin at the same elevation as the platform, landing or floor surface.
Exception:Alternating tread devices used as an element of a means of egress in buildings from a mezzaninearea not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) in area that serves not more than five occupants shall have a minimum tread depth of 3 inches (76 mm) with a minimum projected tread depth of 101/2 inches (267 mm). The rise to the next alternating tread surface shall not exceed 8 inches (203 mm).
Ships ladders are permitted to be used in Group I-3 as a component of a means of egress to and from control rooms or elevated facility observation stations not more than 250 square feet (23 m2) with not more than three occupants and for access to unoccupied roofs. The minimum clear width at and below the handrails shall be 20 inches (508 mm).
Ships ladders shall have a minimum tread depth of 5 inches (127 mm). The tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread depth plus the nosing projection is not less than 81/2 inches (216 mm). The maximum riser height shall be 91/2 inches (241 mm).
Permanent ladders shall not serve as a part of the means of egressfrom occupied spaces within a building. Permanent ladders shall be permitted to provide access to the following areas:
Spaces frequented only by personnel for maintenance, repair or monitoring of equipment.
Nonoccupiable spaces accessed only by catwalks, crawl spaces, freight elevators or very narrow passageways.
Raised areas used primarily for purposes of security, life safety or fire safety including, but not limited to, observation galleries, prison guard towers, fire towers or lifeguard stands.
Elevated levels in Group U not open to the general public.
Nonoccupied roofs that are not required to have stairwayaccess in accordance with Section 1011.12.1.
Rampsused as part of a means of egressshall have a running slope not steeper than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent slope). The slope of other pedestrian rampsshall not be steeper than one unit vertical in eight units horizontal (12.5-percent slope).
The slope measured perpendicular to the direction of travel of a rampshall not be steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
The minimum width and required capacity of a means of egressrampshall be not less than that required for corridorsby Section 1020.2. The clear width of a rampbetween handrails, if provided, or other permissible projections shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum.
Means of egressrampsshall not reduce in width in the direction of egress travel. Projections into the required rampand landing width are prohibited. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the clear width to less than 42 inches (1067 mm).
Rampsshall have landings at the bottom and top of each ramp, points of turning, entrance, exits and at doors. Landings shall comply with Sections 1012.6.1 through 1012.6.5.
Landings shall have a slope not steeper than one unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in any direction. Changes in level are not permitted.
Where the rampis not a part of an accessible route, the length of the landing shall not be required to be more than 48 inches (1220 mm) in the direction of travel.
Where changes in direction of travel occur at landings provided between rampruns, the landing shall be 60 inches by 60 inches (1524 mm by 1524 mm) minimum.
Rampsshall be built of materials consistent with the types permitted for the type of construction of the building, except that wood handrailsshall be permitted for all types of construction.
Edge protection complying with Section 1012.10.1 or 1012.10.2 shall be provided on each side of rampruns and at each side of ramplandings.
Exceptions:
Edge protection is not required on rampsthat are not required to have handrails, provided they have flared sides that comply with the ICC A117.1curb ramp provisions.
Edge protection is not required on the sides of ramplandings serving an adjoining ramprun or stairway.
Edge protection is not required on the sides of ramplandings having a vertical dropoff of not more than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) within 10 inches (254 mm) horizontally of the required landing area.
A curb, rail, wall or barrier shall be provided to serve as edge protection. A curb shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height. Barriers shall be constructed so that the barrier prevents the passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (102 mm) of the floor or ground surface.
The floor or ground surface of the ramprun or landing shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a handrailcomplying with Section 1014.
Exitsand exit accessdoors shall be marked by an approvedexit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. The path of egress travel to exitsand within exitsshall be marked by readily visible exit signs to clearly indicate the direction of egress travel in cases where the exitor the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Intervening means of egressdoors within exits shall be marked by exit signs. Exit sign placement shall be such that no point in an exit accesscorridor or exit passagewayis more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance for the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.
Exit signs are not required in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3.
In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.
The bottom of the sign shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm) nor more than 12 inches (305 mm) above the floor level. The sign shall be flush mounted to the door or wall. Where mounted on the wall, the edge of the sign shall be within 4 inches (102 mm) of the door frame on the latch side.
Electrically powered, self-luminousand photoluminescentexit signs shall be listed and labeledin accordance with UL 924 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and Chapter 27. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times.
Every exit sign and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word "EXIT" shall have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (51 mm) wide, except the letter "I," and the minimum spacing between letters shall be not less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Signs larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height.
The word "EXIT" shall be in high contrast with the background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign, the construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron directional indicator cannot be readily changed.
Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. To ensure continued illumination for a duration of not less than 90 minutes in case of primary power loss, the sign illumination means shall be connected to an emergency power system provided from storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Chapter 27.
Exceptions:
Approvedexit sign illumination means that provide continuous illumination independent of external power sources for a duration of not less than 90 minutes, in case of primary power loss, are not required to be connected to an emergency electrical system.
Group I-2Condition 2exit sign illumination shall not be provided by unit equipment battery only.
Handrailheight, measured above stair tread nosings, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm).Handrail height of alternating tread devices and ships ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).
Exceptions:
Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed the maximum height.
In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are associated with a Group R-3 occupancy or associated with individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies; where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, transition at winder treads, transition from handrailto guard, or where used at the start of aflight, the handrail height at the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed the maximum height.
Required handrailsshall comply with Section 1014.3.1 or shall provide equivalent graspability as detailed in Figure 1014.3.
Exception: In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to individual dwelling unitsin Group R-2 occupancies; handrailsshall be Type I in accordance with Section 1014.3.1, Type II in accordance with Section 1014.3.2, or shall provide equivalent graspability.
Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm). Where thehandrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) with a maximum cross-sectional dimension of 21/4 inches (57 mm) and minimum cross-sectional dimension of 1 inch (25 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
Handrailswith a perimeter greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) shall provide a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within a distance of 3/4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and achieve a depth of not less than 5/16 inch (8 mm) within 7/8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile. This required depth shall continue for not less than 3/8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 13/4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) to not greater than 23/4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
Handrail gripping surfaces shall be continuous, without interruption by newel posts or other obstructions.
Exceptions:
Handrails within dwelling units are permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at a turn or landing.
Within a dwelling unit, the use of a volute, turnout, starting easing, or starting newel is allowed over the lowest tread.
Handrail brackets or balusters attached to the bottom surface of the handrail that do not project horizontally beyond the sides of the handrail within 11/2 inches (38 mm) of the bottom of the handrail shall not be considered obstructions. For each 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) of additional handrail perimeter dimension above 4 inches (102 mm), the vertical clearance dimension of 11/2 inches (38 mm) shall be permitted to be reduced by 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
Where handrailsare provided along walking surfaces with slopes not steeper than 1:20, the bottoms of the handrail gripping surfaces shall be permitted to be obstructed along their entire length where they are integral to crash rails or bumper guards.
Stairhandrails within dwelling units shall be permitted to be discontinuous between the top and bottom of a flight of stairs where the ends of the discontinued rails are returned to a wall or post and the maximum distance between the discontinued rails is not greater than 4 inches (102 mm).
Handrailsshall return to a wall, guardor the walking surface or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent flightof stairsor ramprun. Where handrailsare not continuous between flights, the handrailsshall extend horizontally not less than 12 inches (305 mm) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of one tread beyond the bottom riser. At rampswhere handrailsare not continuous between runs, the handrailsshall extend horizontally above the landing 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of rampruns. The extensions of handrailsshall be in the same direction of the flightsof stairsat stairwaysand the rampruns at ramps.
Exceptions:
Handrailswithin a dwelling unitthat is not required to be accessible need extend only from the top riser to the bottom riser.
Handrailsserving aisles in rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes are permitted to comply with the handrail extensions in accordance with Section 1029.15.
Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm). A handrail and a wall or other surface adjacent to the handrailshall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.
On rampsand on ramped aislesthat are part of an accessible route, the clear width between handrailsshall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum. Projections into the required width of aisles, stairwaysand rampsat each side shall not exceed 41/2 inches (114 mm) at or below the handrail height. Projections into the required width shall not be limited above the minimum headroom height required in Section 1011.3. Projections due to intermediate handrailsshall not constitute a reduction in the egress width. Where a pair of intermediate handrailsare provided within the stairwaywidth without a walking surface between the pair of intermediate handrailsand the distance between the pair of intermediate handrailsis greater than 6 inches (152 mm), the available egress width shall be reduced by the distance between the closest edges of each such intermediate pair of handrailsthat is greater than 6 inches (152 mm).
Stairwaysshall have intermediate handrailslocated in such a manner that all portions of the stairwayminimum width or required capacity are within 30 inches (762 mm) of a handrail. On monumental stairs, handrailsshall be located along the most direct path of egress travel.
Guardsshall comply with the provisions of Sections 1015.2 through 1015.7. Operable windows with sills located more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above finished grade or other surface below shall comply with Section 1015.8.
Guardsshall be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment platforms, aisles, stairs, rampsand landings that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Guardsshall be adequate in strength and attachment in accordance with Section 1607.8.
Exception:Guards are not required for the following locations:
Where glass is used to provide a guardor as a portion of the guard system, the guard shall comply with Section 2407. Where the glazing provided does not meet the strength and attachment requirements of Section 1607.8, complying guards shall be located along glazed sides of open-sided walking surfaces.
For occupancies in Group R-3 not more than three stories above grade in height and within individual dwelling unitsin occupancies in Group R-2 not more than three stories above grade in height with separate means of egress, required guardsshall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically from the adjacent walking surfaces or adjacent fixed seating whichever is at the higher elevation.
For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling unitsin occupancies in Group R-2, guardson the open sides of stairsshall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.
For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling unitsin occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guardalso serves as a handrailon the open sides of stairs, the top of the guardshall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edges of the treads.
Along alternating tread devicesand ships ladders, guardswhere the top rail also serves as a handrailshall have height not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm), measured vertically from the leading edge of the device tread nosing.
Required guardsshall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter from the walking surface to the required guardheight.
Exceptions:
From a height of 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm), guardsshall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 43/8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.
The triangular openings at the open sides of a stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter.
At elevated walking surfaces for access to and use of electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or equipment, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
In areas that are not open to the public within occupancies in Group I-3, F, H or S, and for alternating tread devices and ships ladders, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
In assembly seating areas, guards required at the end of aisles in accordance with Section 1029.16.4 shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter up to a height of 26 inches (660 mm). From a height of 26 inches (660 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent walking surfaces,guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter.
Within individual dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies, guards on the open sides of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 43/8 (111 mm) inches in diameter.
Porches and decks that are enclosed with insect screening shall be provided with guards where the walking surface is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below.
Guards shall be provided where various components that require service are located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor, roof or grade below. The guard shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond each end of such components. The guardshall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
Exception:Guardsare not required where permanent fall arrest/restraint anchorage connector devices that comply with ANSI/ASSE Z 359.1 are affixed for use during the entire roof covering lifetime. The devices shall be reevaluated for possible replacement when the entire roof covering is replaced. The devices shall be placed not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) on center along hip and ridge lines and placed not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the roof edge or open side of the walking surface.
Guards shall be provided where the roof hatch opening is located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open side is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor, roof or grade below. The guard shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
Exception:Guardsare not required where permanent fall arrest/restraint anchorage connector devices that comply with ANSI/ASSE Z 359.1 are affixed for use during the entire roof covering lifetime. The devices shall be reevaluated for possible replacement when the entire roof covering is replaced. The devices shall be placed not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) on center along hip and ridge lines and placed not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the roof edge or open side of the walking surface.
The exit accessshall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 1003 through 1015. Exit accessarrangement shall comply with Sections 1016 through 1021.
Egress through intervening spaces shall comply with this section.
Exit accessthrough an enclosed elevator lobby is permitted. Access to not less than one of the required exitsshall be provided without travel through the enclosed elevator lobbies required by Section 3006. Where the path of exit access travel passes through an enclosed elevator lobby, the level of protection required for the enclosed elevator lobby is not required to be extended to the exitunless direct access to an exitis required by other sections of this code.
Egress from a room or space shall not pass through adjoining or intervening rooms or areas, except where such adjoining rooms or areas and the area served are accessory to one or the other, are not a Group H occupancy and provide a discernible path of egress travel to an exit.
Exception:Means of egressare not prohibited through adjoining or intervening rooms or spaces in a Group H, S or F occupancy where the adjoining or intervening rooms or spaces are the same or a lesser hazard occupancy group.
An exit accessshall not pass through a room that can be locked to prevent egress.
Means of egressare not prohibited through stockrooms in Group M occupancies where all of the following are met:
The stock is of the same hazard classification as that found in the main retail area.
Not more than 50 percent of the exit accessis through the stockroom.
The stockroom is not subject to locking from the egress side.
There is a demarcated, minimum 44-inch-wide (1118 mm) aisledefined by full- or partial-height fixed walls or similar construction that will maintain the required width and lead directly from the retail area to the exitwithout obstructions.
Where more than one tenant occupies any one floor of a building or structure, each tenant space, dwelling unitand sleeping unitshall be provided with access to the required exitswithout passing through adjacent tenant spaces, dwelling unitsand sleeping units.
Exception:
The means of egressfrom a smaller tenant space shall not be prohibited from passing through a larger adjoining tenant space where such rooms or spaces of the smaller tenant occupy less than 10 percent of the area of the larger tenant space through which they pass; are the same or similar occupancy group; a discernible path of egress travel to an exitis provided; and the means of egressinto the adjoining space is not subject to locking from the egress side. A required means of egressserving the larger tenant space shall not pass through the smaller tenant space or spaces.
Exit accesstravel distances specified in Table 1017.2 shall be increased up to an additional 100 feet (30 480 mm) provided the last portion of the exit accessleading to the exitoccurs on an exterior egress balcony constructed in accordance with Section 1021. The length of such balcony shall be not less than the amount of the increase taken.
Exit accesstravel distance shall be measured from the most remote point within a story along the natural and unobstructed path of horizontal and vertical egress travel to the entrance to an exit.
Travel distance on exit access stairwaysor rampsshall be included in the exit accesstravel distance measurement. The measurement along stairwaysshall be made on a plane parallel and tangent to the stair tread nosingsin the center of the stairand landings. The measurement along rampsshall be made on the walking surface in the center of the rampand landings.
Aislesand aisle accesswaysserving as a portion of the exit accessin the means of egresssystem shall comply with the requirements of this section. Aislesor aisle accesswaysshall be provided from all occupied portions of the exit accessthat contain seats, tables, furnishings, displays and similar fixtures or equipment. The minimum width or required capacity of aislesshall be unobstructed.
An aisle accesswayshall be provided on not less than one side of each element within the merchandise pad. The minimum clear width for an aisle accesswaynot required to be accessible shall be 30 inches (762 mm). The required clear width of the aisle accesswayshall be measured perpendicular to the elements and merchandise within the merchandise pad. The 30-inch (762 mm) minimum clear width shall be maintained to provide a path to an adjacent aisleor aisle accessway. The common path of egress travelshall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any point in the merchandise pad.
In other than rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes and Group B and M occupancies, the minimum clear aislecapacity shall be determined by Section 1005.1 for the occupant load served, but the width shall be not less than that required for corridors by Section 1020.2.
Exception:
Nonpublic aislesserving less than 50 people and not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 need not exceed 28 inches (711 mm) in width.
In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, floor openings containing exit access stairwaysor rampsthat do not comply with one of the conditions listed in this section shall be enclosed with a shaft enclosure constructed in accordance with Section 713.
Exit access stairwaysand rampsin buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systemin accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where the area of the vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of the stairwayor rampand the opening is protected by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13. In other than Group B and M occupancies, this provision is limited to openings that do not connect more than four stories.
A fire-resistance ratingis not required for corridorsin an occupancy in Group E where each room that is used for instruction has not less than one door opening directly to the exterior and rooms for assembly purposes have not less than one-half of the required means of egressdoors opening directly to the exterior. Exterior doors specified in this exception are required to be at ground level.
The required capacity of corridorsshall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than that specified in Table 1020.2.
Exception: In Group I-2 occupancies, corridorsare not required to have a clear width of 96 inches (2438 mm) in areas where there will not be stretcher or bed movement for access to care or as part of the defend-in-place strategy.
Where more than one exitor exit access doorwayis required, the exit accessshall be arranged such that there are no dead ends in corridorsmore than 20 feet (6096 mm) in length.
Exceptions:
In occupancies in Group I-3 of Condition 2, 3 or 4, the dead end in a corridorshall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
A dead-end corridorshall not be limited in length where the length of the dead-end corridoris less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end corridor.
Corridorsshall not serve as supply, return, exhaust, relief or ventilation air ducts.
Exceptions:
Use of a corridoras a source of makeup air for exhaust systems in rooms that open directly onto such corridors, including toilet rooms, bathrooms, dressing rooms, smoking lounges and janitor closets, shall be permitted, provided that each such corridoris directly supplied with outdoor air at a rate greater than the rate of makeup air taken from the corridor.
Where located within a dwelling unit, the use of corridorsfor conveying return air shall not be prohibited.
Where located within tenant spaces of 1,000 square feet (93 m2) or less in area, utilization of corridorsfor conveying return air is permitted.
Incidental air movement from pressurized rooms within health care facilities, provided that the corridoris not the primary source of supply or return to the room.
Use of the space between the corridorceiling and the floor or roof structure above as a return air plenum is permitted for one or more of the following conditions:
The air-handling system serving the corridoris shut down upon detection of sprinkler water flow where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
The space between the corridorceiling and the floor or roof structure above the corridoris used as a component of an approved engineered smoke control system.
Balconies used for egress purposes shall conform to the same requirements as corridorsfor minimum width, required capacity, headroom, dead ends and projections.
Exterior egress balconies shall be separated from the interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required for corridors.
Exception:
Separation is not required where the exterior egress balcony is served by not less than two stairwaysand a dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an unprotected opening to reach a stairway.
The long side of an egress balcony shall be at least 50 percent open, and the open area above the guardsshall be so distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.
Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distanceof 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to the following:
Exitsshall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exitshall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given level of exitprotection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exitsshall be continuous from the point of entry into the exitto the exit discharge.
Openings in interior exit stairwaysand rampsother than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those necessary for exit accessto the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the enclosure.
Penetrations into or through interior exit stairwaysand rampsare prohibited except for noncombustible refrigerant or hydronic piping necessary for heating or cooling the exit enclosure, equipment and ductwork necessary for independent ventilation or pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway for fire department communication systems, and electrical raceway serving the interior exit stairwayand rampand terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714. There shall not be penetrations or communication openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent interior exit stairwaysand ramps.
Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the interior exit stairwayand rampby ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
Where such equipment and ductwork is located within the interior exit stairwayand ramp, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
Where located within the building, such equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts.
Unitary HVAC equipment utilizing refrigerant or chilled and hot water for cooling and heating, such as fan coil units, shall be permitted to be installed within the exit enclosure. Noncombustible supply, return, and condensate piping required for the operation of the fan coil unit, shall be allowed to penetrate the exit enclosure at one location each.
In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation, and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 716 for shaft enclosures.
Exterior wallsof the interior exit stairwayor rampshall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls. Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the exterior of the stairwayor rampsand the walls or openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), the building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening shall have a fire-resistance ratingof not less than 1 hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection ratingof not less than 3/4 hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the topmost landing of thestairwayorramp, or to the roof line, whichever is lower.
A sign shall be provided at each floor landing in an interior exit stairway and rampconnecting more than three stories designating the floor level, the terminus of the top and bottom of theinterior exit stairway and ramp and the identification of the stairway or ramp. The signage shall also state the story of, and the direction to, the exit discharge and the availability of roof access from the interior exit stairway andramp for the fire department. The sign shall be located 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor landing in a position that is readily visible when the doors are in the open and closed positions. In addition to the stairway identification sign, a floor-level sign in visual characters, raised characters and braille complying withICC A117.1 shall be located at each floor-level landing adjacent to the door leading from theinterior exit stairway and ramp into the corridorto identify the floor level.
Stairway identification signs shall comply with all of the following requirements:
The signs shall be a minimum size of 18 inches (457 mm) by 12 inches (305 mm).
The letters designating the identification of the interior exit stairway and ramp shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) in height.
The number designating the floor level shall be not less than 5 inches (127 mm) in height and located in the center of the sign.
Other lettering and numbers shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in height.
Characters and their background shall have a non-glare finish. Characters shall contrast with their background, with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background.
At landings in interior exit stairwayswhere two or more doors lead to the floor level, any door with direct access to an enclosed elevator lobby shall be identified by signage located on the door or directly adjacent to the door stating "Elevator Lobby." Signage shall be in accordance with Section 1023.9.1, Items 4, 5 and 6.
Exception:
Access is not required by way of a vestibule or exterior balcony for stairwaysand rampsusing the pressurization alternative complying with Section 909.20.5.
The required capacity of exit passagewaysshall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1 but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except that exit passagewaysserving an occupant load of less than 50 shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width. The minimum width or required capacity of exit passagewaysshall be unobstructed.
Penetrations into or through an exit passagewayare prohibited except for equipment and ductwork necessary for independent pressurization, sprinkler piping, standpipes, electrical raceway for fire department communication and electrical raceway serving the exit passagewayand terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m2). Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714. There shall not be penetrations or communicating openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent exit passageways.
The equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the exit passagewayby ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
Where the equipment and ductwork is located within the exit passageway, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or the air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
Where located within the building, the equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts.
In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 716 for shaft enclosures.
Approvedluminous egress path markings delineating the exit path shall be provided in high-rise buildingsof Group A, B, E, I, M, and R-1 occupancies in accordance with Sections 1025.1 through 1025.5.
Exception:
Luminous egress path markings shall not be required on the level of exit dischargein lobbies that serve as part of the exit path in accordance with Section 1028.1, Exception 1.
A solid and continuous stripe shall be applied to the horizontal leading edge of each step and shall extend for the full length of the step. Outlining stripes shall have a minimum horizontal width of 1 inch (25 mm) and a maximum width of 2 inches (51 mm). The leading edge of the stripe shall be placed not more than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) from the leading edge of the step and the stripe shall not overlap the leading edge of the step by not more than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) down the vertical face of the step.
Exception:
The minimum width of 1 inch (25 mm) shall not apply to outlining stripes listed in accordance with UL 1994.
Handrailsand handrail extensions shall be marked with a solid and continuous stripe having a minimum width of 1 inch (25 mm). The stripe shall be placed on the top surface of the handrailfor the entire length of the handrail, including extensions and newel post caps. Where handrailsor handrail extensions bend or turn corners, the stripe shall not have a gap of more than 4 inches (102 mm).
Exception:
The minimum width of 1 inch (25 mm) shall not apply to outlining stripes listed in accordance with UL 1994.
Stair landings and other floor areas within interior exit stairways, interior exit rampsand exit passageways, with the exception of the sides of steps, shall be provided with solid and continuous demarcation lines on the floor or on the walls or a combination of both. The stripes shall be 1 to 2 inches (25 mm to 51 mm) wide with interruptions not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm).
Exception:
The minimum width of 1 inch (25 mm) shall not apply to outlining stripes listed in accordance with UL 1994.
Perimeter demarcation lines shall be placed within 4 inches (102 mm) of the wall and shall extend to within 2 inches (51 mm) of the markings on the leading edge of landings. The demarcation lines shall continue across the floor in front of all doors.
Exception:
Demarcation lines shall not extend in front of exit dischargedoors that lead out of an exitand through which occupants must travel to complete the exit path.
Perimeter demarcation lines shall be placed on the wall with the bottom edge of the stripe not more than 4 inches (102 mm) above the finished floor. At the top or bottom of the stairs, demarcation lines shall drop vertically to the floor within 2 inches (51 mm) of the step or landing edge. Demarcation lines on walls shall transition vertically to the floor and then extend across the floor where a line on the floor is the only practical method of outlining the path. Where the wall line is broken by a door, demarcation lines on walls shall continue across the face of the door or transition to the floor and extend across the floor in front of such door.
Exception:
Demarcation lines shall not extend in front of exit discharge doors that lead out of an exitand through which occupants must travel to complete the exit path.
Where a wall-mounted demarcation line transitions to a floor-mounted demarcation line, or vice versa, the wall-mounted demarcation line shall drop vertically to the floor to meet a complimentary extension of the floor-mounted demarcation line, thus forming a continuous marking.
Obstacles at or below 6 feet 6 inches (1981 mm) in height and projecting more than 4 inches (102 mm) into the egress path shall be outlined with markings not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in width comprised of a pattern of alternating equal bands, of luminous material and black, with the alternating bands not more than 2 inches (51 mm) thick and angled at 45 degrees (0.79 rad). Obstacles shall include, but are not limited to, standpipes, hose cabinets, wall projections and restricted height areas. However, such markings shall not conceal any required information or indicators including but not limited to instructions to occupants for the use of standpipes.
Doors through which occupants must pass in order to complete the exit path shall be provided with markings complying with Sections 1025.2.6.1 through 1025.2.6.3.
The doors shall be identified by a low-location luminous emergency exit symbol complying with NFPA 170. The exit symbol shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height and shall be mounted on the door, centered horizontally, with the top of the symbol not higher than 18 inches (457 mm) above the finished floor.
Door hardware shall be marked with not less than 16 square inches (406 mm2) of luminous material. This marking shall be located behind, immediately adjacent to, or on the door handle or escutcheon. Where a panic bar is installed, such material shall not be less than 1 inch (25 mm) wide for the entire length of the actuating bar or touch-pad.
The top and sides of the door frame shall be marked with a solid and continuous 1-inch- to 2-inch-wide (25 mm to 51 mm) stripe. Where the door molding does not provide sufficient flat surface on which to locate the stripe, the stripe shall be permitted to be located on the wall surrounding the frame.
Luminous egress path markings shall be permitted to be made of any material, including paint, provided that an electrical charge is not required to maintain the required luminance. Such materials shall include, but not be limited to, self-luminousmaterials and photoluminescentmaterials. Materials shall comply with either of the following standards:
UL 1994.
ASTM E2072, except that the charging source shall be 1 footcandle (11 lux) of fluorescent illumination for 60 minutes, and the minimum luminance shall be 30 milicandelas per square meter at 10 minutes and 5 milicandelas per square meter after 90 minutes.
Where photoluminescentexit path markings are installed, they shall be provided with not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) of illumination for not less than 60 minutes prior to periods when the building is occupied and continuously during occupancy.
Horizontal exitsserving as an exitin a means of egresssystem shall comply with the requirements of this section. A horizontal exitshall not serve as the only exitfrom a portion of a building, and where two or more exitsare required, not more than one-half of the total number of exitsor total exitminimum width or required capacity shall be horizontal exits.
Exceptions:
Horizontal exitsare permitted to comprise two-thirds of the required exitsfrom any building or floor area for occupancies in Group I-2.
Horizontal exitsare permitted to comprise 100 percent of the exitsrequired for occupancies in Group I-3. Not less than 6 square feet (0.6 m2) of accessible space per occupant shall be provided on each side of the horizontal exitfor the total number of people in adjoining compartments.
The refuge area of a horizontal exitshall be a space occupied by the same tenant or a public area and each such refuge area shall be adequate to accommodate the original occupant loadof the refuge area plus the occupant loadanticipated from the adjoining compartment. The anticipated occupant loadfrom the adjoining compartment shall be based on the capacity of the horizontal exit doors entering the refuge area.
The capacity of the refuge area shall be computed based on a net floor areaallowance of 3 square feet (0.2787 m2) for each occupant to be accommodated therein.
Exceptions:
The net floor areaallowable per occupant shall be as follows for the indicated occupancies:
Six square feet (0.6 m2) per occupant for occupancies in Group I-3.
Fifteen square feet (1.4 m2) per occupant for ambulatory occupancies in Group I-2.
Thirty square feet (2.8 m2) per occupant for nonambulatory occupancies in Group I-2.
Exception:
The adjoining compartment shall not be required to have a stairwayor door leading directly outside, provided the refuge area into which a horizontal exitleads has stairwaysor doors leading directly outside and are so arranged that egress shall not require the occupants to return through the compartment from which egress originates.
Exterior exit stairwaysand rampsserving as an element of a required means of egressshall be open on not less than one side, except for required structural columns, beams, handrailsand guards. An open side shall have not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2) of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor level and the level of each intermediate landing. The required open area shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent floor or landing level.
Exterior exit stairwaysand rampsshall be separated from the interior of the building as required in Section 1023.2. Openings shall be limited to those necessary for egress from normally occupied spaces. Where a vertical plane projecting from the edge of an exterior exit stairwayor rampand landings is exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), the exterior wall shall be rated in accordance with Section 1023.7.
Separation from the interior of the building is not required where the exterior exit stairwayor rampis served by an exterior exit rampor balcony that connects two remote exterior exit stairwaysor other approvedexitswith a perimeter that is not less than 50 percent open. To be considered open, the opening shall be not less than 50 percent of the height of the enclosing wall, with the top of the openings not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the top of the balcony.
Separation from the open-ended corridorof the building is not required for exterior exit stairwaysor ramps, provided that Items 3.1 through 3.5 are met:
At any location in an open-ended corridorwhere a change of direction exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad) occurs, a clear opening of not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2) or an exterior stairwayor rampshall be provided. Where clear openings are provided, they shall be located so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.
Exitsshall discharge directly to the exterior of the building. The exit dischargeshall be at grade or shall provide a direct path of egress travel to grade. The exit dischargeshall not reenter a building. The combined use of Exceptions 1 and 2 shall not exceed 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of the required exits.
Exceptions:
Not more than 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of interior exit stairwaysand rampsis permitted to egress through areas on the level of discharge provided all of the following conditions are met:
Discharge of interior exit stairwaysand rampsshall be provided with a free and unobstructed path of travel to an exterior exitdoor and such exitis readily visible and identifiable from the point of termination of the enclosure.
Not more than 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of the interior exit stairwaysand rampsis permitted to egress through a vestibule provided all of the following conditions are met:
The required capacity of egress courtsshall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except as specified herein. Egress courtsserving Group R-3 and U occupancies shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width. The required capacity and width of egress courtsshall be unobstructed to a height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
Where an egress courtexceeds the minimum required width and the width of such egress courtis then reduced along the path of exit travel, the reduction in width shall be gradual. The transition in width shall be affected by a guard not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and shall not create an angle of more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) with respect to the axis of the egress courtalong the path of egress travel. The width of the egress courtshall not be less than the required capacity.
Where an egress courtserving a building or portion thereof is less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in width, the egress courtwalls shall have not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction for a distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor of the egress court. Openings within such walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.
A required means of egress shall not discharge directly into a vehicular path unless guards are provided to prevent vehicles from hitting the exit door in its outward opened position and to direct pedestrians in a path running parallel to the vehicular path. The guards shall prevent the exit discharge door from being blocked by movable objects such as dumpsters or parked vehicles.
A building, room or space used for assembly purposes that has an occupant loadof greater than 300 and is provided with a main exit, that main exitshall be of sufficient capacity to accommodate not less than one-half of the occupant load, but such capacity shall be not less than the total required capacity of all means of egressleading to the exit. Where the building is classified as a Group A occupancy, the main exitshall front on not less than one street or an unoccupied space of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in width that adjoins a street or public way. In a building, room or space used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exitor where multiple main exitsare provided, exitsshall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building provided that the total capacity of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required capacity.
In addition to having access to a main exit, each level in a building used for assembly purposes having an occupant loadgreater than 300 and provided with a main exit, shall be provided with additional means of egressthat shall provide an egress capacity for not less than one-half of the total occupant loadserved by that level and shall comply with Section 1007.1. In a building used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exitor where multiple main exitsare provided, exitsfor each level shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width.
In Group A-1 occupancies, where persons are admitted to the building at times when seats are not available, such persons shall be allowed to wait in a lobby or similar space, provided such lobby or similar space shall not encroach upon the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress. Such foyer, if not directly connected to a public street by all the main entrances or exits, shall have a straight and unobstructed corridoror path of travel to every such main entrance or exit.
For balconies, galleries or press boxes having a seating capacity of 50 or more located in a building, room or space used for assembly purposes, not less than two means of egressshall be provided, with one from each side of every balcony, gallery or press box.
The required capacity in inches (mm) of the aislesfor assembly seating without smoke protection shall be not less than the occupant loadserved by the egress element in accordance with all of the following, as applicable:
Not less than 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) of aislecapacity for each occupant served shall be provided on stepped aisleshaving riser heights 7 inches (178 mm) or less and tread depths 11 inches (279 mm) or greater, measured horizontally between tread nosings.
Not less than 0.005 inch (0.127 mm) of additional aislecapacity for each occupant shall be provided for each 0.10 inch (2.5 mm) of riser height above 7 inches (178 mm).
Where egress requires stepped aisledescent, not less than 0.075 inch (1.9 mm) of additional aislecapacity for each occupant shall be provided on those portions of aislecapacity having no handrailwithin a horizontal distance of 30 inches (762 mm).
Ramped aisles, where slopes are steeper than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent slope), shall have not less than 0.22 inch (5.6 mm) of clear aislecapacity for each occupant served. Level or ramped aisles, where slopes are not steeper than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent slope), shall have not less than 0.20 inch (5.1 mm) of clear aislecapacity for each occupant served.
The required capacity in inches (mm) of the aisle for smoke-protected assembly seatingshall be not less than the occupant load served by the egress element multiplied by the appropriate factor in Table 1029.6.2. The total number of seats specified shall be those within the space exposed to the same smoke-protected environment. Interpolation is permitted between the specific values shown. A life safety evaluation, complying with NFPA 101, shall be done for a facility utilizing the reduced width requirements of Table 1029.6.2 for smoke-protected assembly seating.
Exception:
A roof canopy in an outdoor stadium shall be permitted to be less than 15 feet (4572 mm) above the highest aisleor aisle accessway provided that there are no objects less than 80 inches (2032 mm) above the highest aisleor aisle accessway.
The floor area used for contests, performances or entertainment provided the roof construction is more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) above the floor level and the use is restricted to low fire hazard uses.
Press boxes and storage facilities less than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) in area.
Outdoor seating facilities where seating and the means of egressin the seating area are essentially open to the outside.
The required capacity in inches (mm) of aislesshall be not less than the total occupant loadserved by the egress element multiplied by 0.08 (2.0 mm) where egress is by stepped aisleand multiplied by 0.06 (1.52 mm) where egress is by level aislesand ramped aisles.
Exitsand aislesshall be so located that the travel distance to an exitdoor shall be not greater than 200 feet (60 960 mm) measured along the line of travel in nonsprinklered buildings. Travel distance shall be not more than 250 feet (76 200 mm) in sprinklered buildings. Where aislesare provided for seating, the distance shall be measured along the aislesand aisle accesswayswithout travel over or on the seats.
Exceptions:
Smoke-protected assembly seating: The travel distance from each seat to the nearest entrance to a vomitory or concourse shall not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm). The travel distance from the entrance to the vomitory or concourse to a stairway, rampor walk on the exterior of the building shall not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).
Open-air seating: The travel distance from each seat to the building exterior shall not exceed 400 feet (122 m). The travel distance shall not be limited in facilities of Type I or II construction.
The common path of egress travelshall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any seat to a point where an occupant has a choice of two paths of egress travel to two exits.
Where one of the two paths of travel is across the aislethrough a row of seats to another aisle, there shall be not more than 24 seats between the two aisles, and the minimum clear width between rows for the row between the two aislesshall be 12 inches (305 mm) plus 0.6 inch (15.2 mm) for each additional seat above seven in the row between aisles.
Exception:
For smoke-protected assembly seatingthere shall be not more than 40 seats between the two aislesand the minimum clear width shall be 12 inches (305 mm) plus 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) for each additional seat.
Every occupied portion of any building, room or space used for assembly purposes that contains seats, tables, displays, similar fixtures or equipment shall be provided with aislesleading to exitsor exit access doorwaysin accordance with this section.
The minimum clear width for aislesshall comply with one of the following:
Forty-eight inches (1219 mm) for stepped aisleshaving seating on each side.
Exception:
Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the stepped aislesserve less than 50 seats.
Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for stepped aisleshaving seating on only one side.
Exception:
Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between a stepped aislehandrailand seating where a stepped aisledoes not serve more than five rows on one side.
Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped aisleshaving seating on both sides.
Exceptions:
Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the aisleserves less than 50 seats.
Thirty inches (762 mm) where the aisledoes not serve more than 14 seats.
Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for level or ramped aisleshaving seating on only one side.
Exception:
For other than ramped aislesthat serve as part of an accessible route, 30 inches (762 mm) where the ramped aisledoes not serve more than 14 seats.
The aisleshall provide sufficient capacity for the number of persons accommodated by the catchment area served by the aisle. The catchment area served by an aisleis that portion of the total space served by that section of the aisle. In establishing catchment areas, the assumption shall be made that there is a balanced use of all means of egress, with the number of persons in proportion to egress capacity.
Where aislesconverge to form a single path of egress travel, the required capacity of that path shall be not less than the combined required capacity of the converging aisles.
Each end of an aisleshall be continuous to a cross aisle, foyer, doorway, vomitory, concourse or stairwayin accordance with Section 1029.9.7 having access to an exit.
Exceptions:
Dead-end aislesshall be not greater than 20 feet (6096 mm) in length.
Dead-end aisleslonger than 16 rows are permitted where seats beyond the 16th row dead-end aisleare not more than 24 seats from another aisle, measured along a row of seats having a minimum clear width of 12 inches (305 mm) plus 0.6 inch (15.2 mm) for each additional seat above seven in the row where seats have backrests or beyond 10 where seats are without backrests in the row.
For smoke-protected assembly seating, a longer dead-end aisleis permitted where seats beyond the 21-row dead-end aisleare not more than 40 seats from another aisle, measured along a row of seats having an aisle accessway with a minimum clear width of 12 inches (305 mm) plus 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) for each additional seat above seven in the row where seats have backrests or beyond 10 where seats are without backrests in the row.
Transitions where the stairwayis a straight run from the stepped aisleshall have a minimum depth of 22 inches (559 mm) where the treads on the descending side of the transition have greater depth and 30 inches (762 mm) where the treads on the descending side of the transition have lesser depth.
Transitions where the stairwaychanges direction from the stepped aisleshall have a minimum depth of 11 inches (280 mm) or the stepped aisle tread depth, whichever is greater, between the stepped aisleand stairway.
