Chapter 14 Means of Egress

During its swing, any door leaf in a means of egress shall leave not less than one-half of the required width of an aisle, a corridor, a passageway, or a landing unobstructed, unless both of the following conditions are met:

1. The door opening provides access to a stair in an existing building.
2. The door opening meets the requirement of 14.5.1.3.2.

[101:7.2.1.4.3.1]

When fully open, any door leaf in a means of egress shall not project more than 7 in. (180 mm) into the required width of an aisle, a corridor, a passageway, or a landing, unless the door leaf is equipped with an approved self-closing device and is not required by the provisions of 14.5.1.2 to swing in the direction of egress travel. [101:7.2.1.4.3.2]

Surface-mounted latch release hardware on the door leaf shall be exempt from being included in the maximum 7 in. (180 mm) projection requirement of 14.5.1.3.2, provided that both of the following criteria are met:

1. The hardware is mounted to the side of the door leaf that faces the aisle, corridor, passageway, or landing when the door leaf is in the open position.
2. The hardware is mounted not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.

[101:7.2.1.4.3.3]

The forces required to fully unlock and unlatch any door leaf manually in a means of egress shall not exceed 15 lbf (67 N) where the door hardware operates by push, pull, or slide, or 28 in.-lbf (3.16 N-m) where the door hardware operates by rotation. [101:7.2.1.4.5.1]

The forces required to fully open any door leaf manually in a means of egress shall not exceed 30 lbf (133 N) to set the leaf in motion, and 15 lbf (67 N) to open the leaf to the minimum required width, unless otherwise specified as follows:

1. The door opening forces for interior side-hinged or pivoted-swinging door leaves without closers shall not exceed 5 lbf (22 N).
2. The door opening forces for existing door leaves in existing buildings shall not exceed 50 lbf (222 N) applied to the latch stile.
3. The door opening forces for horizontal-sliding door leaves in detention and correctional occupancies shall be as provided in Chapters 22 and 23 of NFPA 101.
4. The opening forces for power-operated door leaves shall be as provided in 7.2.1.9 of NFPA 101.

[101:7.2.1.4.5.2]

The forces specified in 14.5.1.5 shall be applied to the latch stile. [101:7.2.1.4.5.3]

The releasing mechanism for locks and latches shall be located as follows:

1. Not less than 34 in. (865 mm) above the finished floor for other than existing installations
2. Not more than 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor

[101:7.2.1.5.3.1]

The operation of the releasing mechanism shall release all latching and all locking devices of the door leaf with not more than one motion in a single linear or rotational direction, unless otherwise specified in 14.5.2.3.4, 14.5.2.3.5, 14.5.2.3.7 or 14.5.2.3.8. [101:7.2.1.5.3.2]

The releasing mechanism for new installations shall be capable of being operated with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate. [101:7.2.1.5.3.3]

Egress door assemblies from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided with devices, including automatic latching devices, that require not more than one additional releasing operation, provided that such device is operable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and is mounted at a height not exceeding 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor. [101:7.2.1.5.3.4]

Existing security devices permitted by 14.5.2.3.4 shall be permitted to have two additional releasing motions. [101:7.2.1.5.3.5]

Existing security devices permitted by 14.5.2.3.4, other than automatic latching devices, shall be located not more than 60 in. (1525 mm) above the finished floor. [101:7.2.1.5.3.6]

Two releasing motions shall be permitted for existing hardware on a door leaf serving an area having an occupant load not exceeding three, provided that releasing does not require simultaneous operations. [101:7.2.1.5.3.7]

Two releasing motions shall be permitted in existing educational occupancies in accordance with 15.2.2.2.4 of NFPA 101 and in existing day care occupancies in accordance with 17.2.2.2.6 of NFPA 101. [101:7.2.1.5.3.8]

Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, key operation shall be permitted, provided that the key cannot be removed when the door leaf is locked from the side from which egress is to be made. [101:7.2.1.5.6.1]

Exterior door assemblies and interior door assemblies to an individual tenant space or to a single tenant space shall be permitted to have key-operated locks from the egress side, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

1. This alternative is permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101 for the specific occupancy.
2. Doors remain unlocked when the building or space is occupied.
3. Doors marked with a readily visible, durable sign in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high on a contrasting background that reads as follows and is located on or adjacent to the door leaf: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THIS SPACE IS OCCUPIED, or THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THE BUILDING IS OCCUPIED, as applicable.
4. The locking device is of a type that is readily distinguishable as locked.
5. A key is immediately available to any occupant inside the building when it is locked.

[101:7.2.1.5.6.2]

The alternative provisions of 14.5.2.6.2 shall be permitted to be revoked by the AHJ for cause. [101:7.2.1.5.6.3]

Door assemblies on stair enclosures shall be permitted to be equipped with hardware that prevents re-entry into the interior of the building, provided that the following criteria are met:

1. There shall be not less than two levels where it is possible to leave the stair enclosure to access another exit.
2. There shall be not more than four stories intervening between stories where it is possible to leave the stair enclosure to access another exit.
3. Re-entry shall be possible on the top story or next-to-top story served by the stair enclosure, and such story shall allow access to another exit.
4. Door assemblies allowing re-entry shall be identified as such on the stair side of the door leaf.
5. Door assemblies not allowing re-entry shall be provided with a sign on the stair side indicating the location of the nearest door opening, in each direction of travel, that allows re-entry or exit.

[101:7.2.1.5.7.1]

The requirements of 14.5.2.7, except as provided in 14.5.2.7.3, shall not apply to the following:

1. Existing installations in buildings that are not high-rise buildings as permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101.
2. Existing installations in high-rise buildings as permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101 where the occupancy is within a building protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3.
3. Existing approved stairwell re-entry installations as permitted by Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101.
4. Stair enclosures serving a building permitted to have a single exit in accordance with Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101.
5. Stair enclosures in health care occupancies where otherwise provided in Chapter 18 of NFPA 101.
6. Stair enclosures in detention and correctional occupancies where otherwise provided in Chapter 22 of NFPA 101.

[101:7.2.1.5.7.2]

When the provisions of 14.5.2.7.2 are used, signage on the stair door leaves shall be required as follows;

1. Door assemblies allowing re-entry shall be identified as such on the stair side of the door leaf.
2. Door assemblies not allowing re-entry shall be provided with a sign on the stair side indicating the location of the nearest door opening, in each direction of travel, that allows re-entry or exit.

[101:7.2.1.5.7.3]

Approved, delayed-egress electrical locking systems shall be permitted to be installed on door assemblies serving low- and ordinary-hazard contents in buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 13.7 or an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3, and where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, provided that the following criteria are met:

1. The delay of the delayed-egress electrical locking system shall deactivate allowing unobstructed egress upon actuation of one of the following:
   1. Approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3
   2. Not more than one heat detector of an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 13.7
   3. Not more than two smoke detectors of an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 13.7
2. The delay of the delayed-egress electrical locking system shall deactivate allowing unobstructed egress upon loss of power controlling the lock or locking mechanism.
3. * An irreversible process shall release the electrical lock in the direction of egress within 15 seconds, or 30 seconds where approved by the AHJ, upon application of a force to the release device required in 14.5.2.3 under all of the following conditions:
   1. The force shall not be required to exceed 15 lbf (67 N).
   2. The force shall not be required to be continuously applied for more than 3 seconds.
   3. The initiation of the release process shall activate an audible signal in the vicinity of the door opening.
   4. Once the electrical lock has been released by the application of force to the releasing device, rearming the delay electronics shall be by manual means only.
4. * A readily visible, durable sign that conforms to the visual characters requirements of ICC A117.1, Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, shall be located on the door leaf adjacent to the release device in the direction of egress, and shall read as follows:
   1. PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS, DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS, for doors that swing in the direction of egress travel
   2. PULL UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS, DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS, for doors that swing against the direction of egress travel
5. The egress side of doors equipped with delayed-egress electrical locking system shall be provided with emergency lighting in accordance with Section 7.9 of NFPA 101.
6. Hardware for new installations shall be listed in accordance with UL 294, Access Control System Units.

[101:7.2.1.6.1.1]

The provisions of 14.5.3.2 for sensor-release of electrical locking systems and 14.5.3.3, for door hardware release of electrically locked egress door assemblies shall not apply to door assemblies with delayed-egress electrical locking systems. [101:7.2.1.6.1.2]

Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with sensor-release electrical locking system hardware provided that all of the following criteria are met:

1. A sensor shall be provided on the egress side, arranged to electrically unlock the door leaf in the direction of egress upon detection of an approaching occupant.
2. Door leaves shall automatically electrically unlock in the direction of egress upon loss of power to the sensor or to the part of the locking system that electrically locks the door leaves.
3. Door locks shall be arranged to electrically unlock in the direction of egress from a manual release device complying with all of the following criteria:
   1. The manual release device shall be located on the egress side, 40 in. to 48 in. (1015 mm to 1220 mm) vertically above the floor, and within 60 in. (1525 mm) of the secured door openings, except as otherwise permitted by 14.5.3.2.1(3)(c).
   2. The requirement of 14.5.3.2.1(3)(a) to locate the manual release device within 60 in. (1525 mm) of the secured door opening shall not apply to previously approved existing installations.
   3. The manual release device shall be readily accessible and clearly identified by a sign that reads as follows: PUSH TO EXIT.
   4. When operated, the manual release device shall result in direct interruption of power to the electrical lock — independent of the locking system electronics — and the lock shall remain unlocked for not less than 30 seconds.
4. Activation of the building fire-protective signaling system, if provided, shall automatically electrically unlock the door leaves in the direction of egress, and the door leaves shall remain electrically unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system has been manually reset.
5. The activation of manual fire alarm boxes that activate the building fire-protective signaling system specified in 14.5.3.2.1(4) shall not be required to unlock the door leaves.
6. Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire detection system, if provided, shall automatically electrically unlock the door leaves in the direction of egress, and the door leaves shall remain electrically unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system has been manually reset.
7. The egress side of sensor-release electrically locked egress doors, other than existing sensor-release electrically locked egress doors, shall be provided with emergency lighting in accordance with Section 14.13.
8. Hardware for new installations shall be listed in accordance with UL 294, Access Control System Units.

[101:7.2.1.6.2.1]

The provisions of 14.5.3.1 for delayed-egress electrical locking systems and 14.5.3.3 for door hardware release of electrically locked egress door assemblies shall not apply to door assemblies with sensor-release of electrical locking systems. [101:7.2.1.6.2.2]

Door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with approved electrical locking systems released by the operation of door hardware provided that all of the following conditions are met:

1. The hardware for egress-side occupant release of the electrical lock is affixed to the door leaf.
2. The hardware has an obvious method of operation that is readily operated in the direction of egress under all lighting conditions.
3. The hardware is capable of being operated with one hand in the direction of egress.
4. Operation of the hardware directly and immediately interrupts the power supply to the electric lock to unlock the door assembly in the direction of egress.
5. * Loss of power to the listed releasing hardware automatically electrically unlocks the door assembly in the direction of egress.
6. Hardware for new installations is listed in accordance with UL 294, Access Control System Units.

[101:7.2.1.6.3.1]

Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, door assemblies separating the elevator lobby from the exit access required by 14.9.1.6.1 shall be permitted to be electrically locked, provided that all the following criteria are met:

1. The electrical locking hardware is listed in accordance with UL 294, Access Control System Units.
2. The building is protected throughout by a fire alarm system in accordance with Section 13.7.
3. The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3.
4. Waterflow in the sprinkler system required by 14.5.3.4.1 is arranged to initiate the building fire alarm system.
5. The elevator lobby is protected by an approved, supervised smoke detection system in accordance with Section 13.7.
6. Detection of smoke by the detection system required by 14.5.3.4.1 is arranged to initiate the building fire alarm system and notify building occupants.
7. Initiation of the building fire alarm system by other than manual fire alarm boxes unlocks the electrical locks on the elevator lobby door assembly.
8. Loss of power to the elevator lobby electrical lock system unlocks the electrical locks on the elevator lobby door assemblies.
9. Once unlocked, the elevator lobby door assemblies remain electrically unlocked until the building fire alarm system has been manually reset.
10. Where the elevator lobby door assemblies remain mechanically latched after being electrically unlocked, latch-releasing hardware in accordance with 14.5.2.3 is affixed to the door leaves.
11. A two-way communication system is provided for communication between the elevator lobby and a central control point that is constantly staffed.
12. The central control point staff required by 14.5.3.4.1 is capable, trained, and authorized to provide emergency assistance.

(101:7.2.1.6.4.1]

Elevator lobby exit access doors equipped with electrical locking systems shall not be required to comply with 14.5.3.1, 14.5.3.2, or 14.5.3.3. [101:7.2.1.6.4.2]

Where a side-hinged, a pivoted-swinging door assembly, or a balanced door assembly is required to be equipped with panic or fire exit hardware, such hardware shall meet all of the following criteria:

1. It shall consist of a cross bar or a push pad, with the length of the actuating portion of the cross bar or push pad not less than one-half of the width of the door leaf measured from the latch stile unless otherwise required by 14.5.3.5.2.
2. It shall be mounted as follows:
   1. New installations shall be not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.
   2. Existing installations shall be not less than 30 in. (760 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.
3. It shall be constructed so that a horizontal force not to exceed 15 lbf (67 N) actuates the cross bar or push pad and latches.

[101:7.2.1.7.1]

Where panic or fire exit hardware is installed on a balanced door assembly or pivoted-swinging door assembly, the panic or fire exit hardware shall be of the push-pad type, and the pad shall extend approximately one-half the width of the door leaf, measured from the latch stile. [101:7.2.1.7.2]

Only approved fire exit hardware shall be used on fire-protection-rated door assemblies. New panic hardware and new fire exit hardware shall comply with UL 305, Panic Hardware, and ANSI/BHMA A156.3, Exit Devices. [101:7.2.1.7.3]

Required panic hardware and fire exit hardware, in other than detention and correctional occupancies as otherwise provided in Chapters 22 and 23 of NFPA 101, shall not be equipped with any locking device, set screw, or other arrangement that prevents the release of the latch when pressure is applied to the releasing device. [101:7.2.1.7.4]

Devices that hold the latch in the retracted position shall be prohibited on fire exit hardware, unless such devices are listed and approved for such a purpose. [101:7.2.1.7.5]

New power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors, and power-operated folding doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10, Power Operated Pedestrian Doors. [101:7.2.1.9.1.1]

New power-assisted swinging doors and low-energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19, Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Doors. [101:7.2.1.9.1.2]

New low-energy power-operated sliding doors and low-energy power-operated folding doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.38, Low Energy Power Operated Sliding and Folding Doors. [101:7.2.1.9.1.3]

The forces required to manually open the door leaves specified in 14.5.5.1 shall not exceed those required in 14.5.1.5, except that the force required to set the leaf in motion shall not exceed 50 lbf (222 N). [101:7.2.1.9.1.4]

The door assembly shall be designed and installed so that, when a force is applied to the door leaf on the egress side, the door leaf shall be capable of swinging from any position to provide full use of the required width of the opening in which it is installed. (See 14.5.1.) [101:7.2.1.9.1.5]

[101:7.2.1.9.1.6]

[101:7.2.1.9.1.7]

In the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a two-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32 in. (810 mm) single-leaf requirement of 7.2.1.2.3.2(1) of NFPA 101, provided that the clear width of the single leaf is not less than 30 in. (760 mm). [101:7.2.1.9.1.8]

For a biparting sliding door assembly in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32 in. (810 mm) single-leaf requirement of 7.2.1.2.3.2(1) of NFPA 101 if a clear opening of not less than 32 in. (810 mm) is provided by all leafs broken out. [101:7.2.1.9.1.9]

Door assemblies complying with 14.5.9 shall be permitted to be used. [101:7.2.1.9.1.10]

The requirements of 14.5.5.1.1 through 14.5.5.1.10 shall not apply in detention and correctional occupancies where otherwise provided in Chapters 22 and 23 of NFPA 101. [101:7.2.1.9.1.11]

Approved turnstiles not exceeding 39 in. (990 mm) in height that turn freely in the direction of egress travel shall be permitted where revolving door assemblies are permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101. [101:7.2.1.11.1.1]

Where turnstiles are approved by the AHJ and permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, each turnstile shall be credited for a capacity of 50 persons, provided that such turnstiles meet all of the following criteria:

1. They freewheel in the egress direction when primary power is lost, and freewheel in the direction of egress travel upon manual release by an employee assigned in the area.
2. They are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress width.
3. They are not in excess of 39 in. (990 mm) in height and have a clear width of not less than 16¹/₂ in. (420 mm).

[101:7.2.1.11.1.2]

Security access turnstiles that impede travel in the direction of egress utilizing a physical barrier shall be permitted to be considered as a component of the means of egress, where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, provided that all the following criteria are met:

1. The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3.
2. Each security access turnstile lane configuration has a minimum clear passage width of 22 in. (560 mm).
3. Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of less than 32 in. (810 mm) shall be given an egress capacity of 50 persons.
4. Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of 32 in. (810 mm) or more shall be given an egress capacity as calculated in accordance with Section 14.8.
5. Each secured physical barrier shall automatically retract or swing to an unobstructed open position in the direction of egress, under each of the following conditions:
   1. Upon loss of power to the turnstile or any part of the access control system that secures the physical barrier.
   2. Upon actuation of a readily accessible and clearly identified manual release device that results in direct interruption of power to each secured physical barrier, remains in the open position for not less than 30 seconds, and is positioned at one of the following locations:
      1. The manual release device is located on the egress side of each security access turnstile lane.
      2. The manual release device is located at an approved location where it can be actuated by an employee assigned to the area.
   3. Upon actuation of the building fire-protective signaling system, if provided, and for which the following apply:
      1. The physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire-protective signaling system is manually reset.
      2. The actuation of manual fire alarm boxes that actuate the building fire-protective signaling system is not required to meet the requirements specified in 14.5.7.1.3(5) (c) (i).
   4. Upon actuation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire detection system, and for which the physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire-protective signaling system is manually reset.

[101:7.2.1.11.1.3]

Goals established under a performance-based program shall provide assurance that the door assembly will perform its intended function. [101:7.2.1.14.2.1]

Technical justification for inspection, testing, and maintenance intervals shall be documented. [101:7.2.1.14.2.2]

The performance-based option shall include historical data. [101:7.2.1.14.2.3]

The total capacity of the means of egress for any story, balcony, tier, or other occupied space shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof unless one of the following conditions exists:

1. The AHJ shall be permitted to establish the occupant load as the number of persons for which existing means of egress is adequate, provided that measures are established to prevent occupancy by a greater number of persons.
2. The egress capacity shall have been previously approved as being adequate.

[101:7.3.1.1.1]

For other than existing means of egress, where more than one means of egress is required, the means of egress shall be of such width and capacity that the loss of any one means of egress leaves available not less than 50 percent of the required capacity. [101:7.3.1.1.2]

The occupant load in any building or portion thereof shall be permitted to be increased from the occupant load established for the given use in accordance with 14.8.1.2 where all other requirements of this Code are also met, based on such increased occupant load. [101:7.3.1.3.1]

The AHJ shall be permitted to require an approved aisle, seating, or fixed equipment diagram to substantiate any increase in occupant load and shall be permitted to require that such a diagram be posted in an approved location. [101:7.3.1.3.2]

The width of any means of egress, unless otherwise provided in 14.8.3.4.1.1 through 14.8.3.4.1.3, shall be as follows:

1. Not less than that required for a given egress component in this chapter or Chapter 7 or Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101
2. Not less than 36 in. (915 mm) where another part of this chapter and Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101 do not specify a minimum width.

[101:7.3.4.1]

Where a single exit access leads to an exit, its capacity in terms of width shall be not less than the required capacity of the exit to which it leads. [101:7.3.4.2]

Where more than one exit access leads to an exit, each shall have a width adequate for the number of persons it accommodates. [101:7.3.4.3]

Each elevator landing and lobby shall have access to at least one exit. [101:7.4.1.6.1]

The elevator landing and lobby exit access required by 14.9.1.6.1 shall not require the use of a key, a tool, special knowledge, or special effort, unless permitted by 14.9.1.6.3. [101:7.4.1.6.2]

Doors separating the elevator lobby from the exit access required by 14.9.1.6.1 shall be permitted to be electronically locked in accordance with 14.5.3.4. [101:7.4.1.6.3]

The minimum number of means of egress for working space about electrical equipment, other than existing electrical equipment, shall be in accordance with 110.26(C) of NFPA 70. [101:7.4.2.1.1]

The method of door unlatching and direction of door swing for working space about electrical equipment, other than existing electrical equipment, shall be in accordance with 110.26(C)(3) of NFPA 70. [101:7.4.2.1.2]

The minimum number of means of egress for working space about electrical equipment, other than existing electrical equipment, shall be in accordance with 110.33(A) of NFPA 70. [101:7.4.2.2.1]

The method of door unlatching and direction of door swing for working space about electrical equipment, other than existing electrical equipment, shall be in accordance with 110.33(A)(3) of NFPA 70. [101:7.4.2.2.2]

Where exits are not immediately accessible from an open floor area, continuous passageways, aisles, or corridors leading directly to every exit shall be maintained and shall be arranged to provide access for each occupant to not less than two exits by separate ways of travel, unless otherwise provided in 14.10.1.1.3 and 14.10.1.1.4. [101:7.5.1.1.1]

Exit access corridors shall provide access to not less than two approved exits, unless otherwise provided in 14.10.1.1.3 and 14.10.1.1.4. [101:7.5.1.1.2]

The requirements of 14.10.1.1.1 and 14.10.1.1.2 shall not apply where a single exit is permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101. [101:7.5.1.1.3]

Where common paths of travel are permitted for an occupancy in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, such common paths of travel shall be permitted but shall not exceed the limit specified. [101:7.5.1.1.4]

Exit access shall be arranged so that there are no dead ends in corridors, unless permitted by, and limited to the lengths specified in, Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101. [101:7.5.1.2.1]

Approved existing corridors that require passage through a room to access an exit shall be permitted to continue to be used, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

1. The path of travel is marked in accordance with Section 14.14.
2. Doors to such rooms comply with 7.2.1 of NFPA 101.
3. Such arrangement is not prohibited by the applicable occupancy chapter in NFPA 101.

[101:7.5.1.2.2]

Corridors that are not required to be fire resistance rated shall be permitted to discharge into open floor plan areas. [101:7.5.1.2.3]

Where more than one exit, exit access, or exit discharge is required from a building or portion thereof, such exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges shall be remotely located from each other and be arranged to minimize the possibility that more than one has the potential to be blocked by any one fire or other emergency condition. [101:7.5.1.3.1]

Where two exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges are required, they shall be located at a distance from one another not less than one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served, measured in a straight line between the nearest edge of the exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges, unless otherwise provided in 14.10.1.3.3 through 14.10.1.3.5. [101:7.5.1.3.2]

In buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3, the minimum separation distance between two exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges, measured in accordance with 14.10.1.3.2, shall be not less than one-third the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served. [101:7.5.1.3.3]

In other than high-rise buildings, where exit enclosures are provided as the required exits specified in 14.10.1.3.2 or 14.10.1.3.3 and are interconnected by not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated corridor, exit separation shall be measured along the shortest line of travel within the corridor [101:7.5.1.3.4]

In existing buildings, where more than one exit, exit access, or exit discharge is required, such exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges shall be exempt from the diagonal measurement separation distance criteria of 14.10.1.3.2 and 14.10.1.3.3, provided that such exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges are remotely located in accordance with 14.10.1.3.1. [101:7.5.1.3.5]

In other than existing buildings, where more than two exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges are required, at least two of the required exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges shall be arranged to comply with the minimum separation distance requirement. [101:7.5.1.3.6]

The balance of the exits, exit accesses, or exit discharges specified in 14.10.1.3.6 shall be located so that, if one becomes blocked, the others are available. [101:7.5.1.3.7]

New interlocking or scissor stairs shall be permitted to be considered only as a single exit. [101:7.5.1.4.1]

Existing interlocking or scissor stairs shall be permitted to be considered separate exits, provided that they meet all of the following criteria:

1. They are enclosed in accordance with Section 14.3.
2. They are separated from each other by 2-hour fire-resistance-rated noncombustible construction.
3. No protected or unprotected penetrations or communicating openings exist between the stair enclosures.

[101:7.5.1.4.2]

Hangings or draperies shall not be placed over exit doors or located so that they conceal or obscure any exit, unless otherwise provided in 14.10.2.2.2. [101:7.5.2.2.1]

Curtains shall be permitted across means of egress openings in tent walls, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

1. They are distinctly marked in contrast to the tent wall so as to be recognizable as means of egress.
2. They are installed across an opening that is at least 6 ft (1830 mm) in width.
3. They are hung from slide rings or equivalent hardware so as to be readily moved to the side to create an unobstructed opening in the tent wall that is of the minimum width required for door openings.

[101:7.5.2.2.2]

Access within the allowable travel distance shall be provided to not less than one accessible area of refuge or one accessible exit providing an accessible route to an exit discharge. [101:7.5.4.1.1]

A single accessible means of egress shall be permitted from buildings or areas of buildings permitted to have a single exit. [101:7.5.4.1.2]

Accessible means of egress shall not be required in health care occupancies protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3. [101:7.5.4.1.3]

Exit access travel along the accessible means of egress shall be permitted to be common for the distances permitted as common paths of travel. [101:7.5.4.1.4]

Where exit enclosures are provided as the required exits specified in 14.10.4.2 and are interconnected by not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated corridor, exit separation shall be permitted to be measured along the line of travel within the corridor. [101:7.5.4.2.1]

The requirement of 14.10.4.2 shall not apply to buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 13.3. [101:7.5.4.2.2]

The requirement of 14.10.4.2 shall not apply where the physical arrangement of means of egress prevents the possibility that access to both accessible means of egress will be blocked by any one fire or other emergency condition as approved by the AHJ. [101:7.5.4.2.3]

Artificial lighting shall be employed at such locations and for such periods of time as are necessary to maintain the illumination to the minimum criteria values herein specified. [101:7.8.1.2.1]

Unless prohibited by Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, automatic lighting control devices shall be permitted to temporarily turn off the illumination within the means of egress, provided that each lighting control device complies with all of the following:

1. In new installations, the lighting control device is listed.
2. The lighting control device is equipped to automatically energize the controlled lights upon loss of normal power and is evaluated for this purpose.
3. Illumination timers are provided and are set for a minimum 15-minute duration.
4. The lighting control device is activated by any occupant movement in the area served by the lighting units.
5. In new installations, the lighting control device is activated by activation of the building fire alarm system, if provided.
6. The lighting control device does not turn off any lights relied upon for activation of photoluminescent exit signs or path markers.
7. The lighting control device does not turn off any battery-equipped emergency luminaires, unit equipment, or exit signs.

[101:7.8.1.2.2]

Energy-saving sensors, switches, timers, or controllers shall be approved and shall not compromise the continuity of illumination of the means of egress required by 14.12.1.2. [101:7.8.1.2.3]

Testing of required emergency lighting systems shall be permitted to be conducted as follows:

1. Functional testing shall be conducted monthly with a minimum of 3 weeks and a maximum of 5 weeks between tests, for not less than 30 seconds, except as otherwise permitted by 14.13.2.1.1(2).
2. The test interval shall be permitted to be extended beyond 30 days with the approval of the AHJ.
3. Functional testing shall be conducted annually for a minimum of 1¹/₂ hours if the emergency lighting system is battery powered.
4. The emergency lighting equipment shall be fully operational for the duration of the tests required by 14.13.2.1.1(1) and 14.13.2.1.1(3).
5. Written records of visual inspections and tests shall be kept by the owner for inspection by the AHJ.

[101:7.9.3.1.1]

Testing of required emergency lighting systems shall be permitted to be conducted as follows:

1. Self-testing/self-diagnostic battery-operated emergency lighting equipment shall be provided.
2. Not less than once every 30 days, self-testing/self-diagnostic battery-operated emergency lighting equipment shall automatically perform a test with a duration of a minimum of 30 seconds and a diagnostic routine.
3. Self-testing/self-diagnostic battery-operated emergency lighting equipment shall indicate failures by a status indicator.
4. A visual inspection shall be performed at intervals not exceeding 30 days.
5. Functional testing shall be conducted annually for a minimum of 1¹/₂ hours.
6. Self-testing/self-diagnostic battery-operated emergency lighting equipment shall be fully operational for the duration of the 1¹/₂ hour test.
7. Written records of visual inspections and tests shall be kept by the owner for inspection by the AHJ.

[101:7.9.3.1.2]

Testing of required emergency lighting systems shall be permitted to be conducted as follows:

1. Computer-based, self-testing/self-diagnostic battery-operated emergency lighting equipment shall be provided.
2. Not less than once every 30 days, emergency lighting equipment shall automatically perform a test with a duration of a minimum of 30 seconds and a diagnostic routine.
3. The emergency lighting equipment shall automatically perform annually a test for a minimum of 1¹/₂ hours.
4. The emergency lighting equipment shall be fully operational for the duration of the tests required by 14.13.2.1.3(2) and 14.13.2.1.3(3).
5. The computer-based system shall be capable of providing a report of the history of tests and failures at all times.

[101:7.9.3.1.3]

Testing of required emergency lighting systems shall be permitted to be conducted in accordance with 7.9.2.4 of NFPA 101. [101:7.9.3.1.4]

Exits, other than main exterior exit doors that obviously and clearly are identifiable as exits, shall be marked by an approved sign that is readily visible from any direction of exit access. [101:7.10.1.2.1]

Horizontal components of the egress path within an exit enclosure shall be marked by approved exit or directional exit signs where the continuation of the egress path is not obvious. [101:7.10.1.2.2]

Tactile signage shall be provided to meet all of the following criteria, unless otherwise provided in 14.14.1.4:

1. Tactile signage shall be located at each exit door requiring an exit sign.
2. Tactile signage shall read as follows: EXIT
3. Tactile signage shall comply with ICC A117.1, Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

[101:7.10.1.3]

The requirements of 14.14.1.3 shall not apply to existing buildings, provided that the occupancy classification does not change. [101:7.10.1.4]

Where floor proximity exit signs are required in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, such signs shall comply with 14.14.3, 14.14.4, 14.14.5, and 14.14.6 for externally illuminated signs and 14.14.7 for internally illuminated signs. Such signs shall be located near the floor level in addition to those signs required for doors or corridors. The bottom of the sign shall be not less than 6 in. (150 mm), but not more than 18 in. (455 mm), above the floor. For exit doors, the sign shall be mounted on the door or adjacent to the door, with the nearest edge of the sign within 4 in. (100 mm) of the door frame. [101:7.10.1.6]

Where floor proximity egress path marking is required in Chapters 11 through 43 of NFPA 101, an approved floor proximity egress path marking system that is internally illuminated shall be installed within 18 in. (455 mm) of the floor. Floor proximity egress path marking systems shall be listed in accordance with UL 1994, Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems. The system shall provide a visible delineation of the path of travel along the designated exit access and shall be essentially continuous, except as interrupted by doorways, hallways, corridors, or other such architectural features. The system shall operate continuously or at any time the building fire alarm system is activated. The activation, duration, and continuity of operation of the system shall be in accordance with 7.9.2 of NFPA 101. The system shall be maintained in accordance with the product manufacturing listing. [101:7.10.1.7]

Every sign required in Section 14.14 shall be located and of such size, distinctive color, and design that it is readily visible and shall provide contrast with decorations, interior finish, or other signs. No decorations, furnishings, or equipment that impairs visibility of a sign shall be permitted. No brightly illuminated sign (for other than exit purposes), display, or object in or near the line of vision of the required exit sign that could detract attention from the exit sign shall be permitted. [101:7.10.1.8]

The bottom of new egress markings shall be located at a vertical distance of not more than 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) above the top edge of the egress opening intended for designation by that marking. Egress markings shall be located at a horizontal distance of not more than the required width of the egress opening, as measured from the edge of the egress opening intended for designation by that marking to the nearest edge of the marking. [101:7.10.1.9]

A sign complying with 14.14.3, with a directional indicator showing the direction of travel, shall be placed in every location where the direction of travel to reach the nearest exit is not apparent. [101:7.10.2.1]

Directional exit signs shall be provided within horizontal components of the egress path within exit enclosures as required by 14.14.1.2.2. [101:7.10.2.2]

Where approved by the AHJ, pictograms in compliance with NFPA 170 shall be permitted. [101:7.10.3.2]

Every sign required by 14.14.1.2, 14.14.1.5, or 14.14.8.1, other than where operations or processes require low lighting levels, shall be suitably illuminated by a reliable light source. Externally and internally illuminated signs shall be legible in both the normal and emergency lighting mode. [101:7.10.5.1]

Externally illuminated signs shall be illuminated by not less than 5 foot-candles (54 lux) at the illuminated surface and shall have a contrast ratio of not less than 0.5. [101:7.10.6.3]

Internally illuminated signs shall be listed in accordance with UL 924, Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment, unless they meet one of the following criteria:

1. They are approved existing signs.
2. They are existing signs having the required wording in legible letters not less than 4 in. (100 mm) high.
3. They are signs that are in accordance with 14.14.1.3 and 14.14.1.6.

[101:7.10.7.1]

The face of a photoluminescent sign shall be continually illuminated while the building is occupied. The illumination levels on the face of the photoluminescent sign shall be in accordance with its listing. The charging illumination shall be a reliable light source as determined by the AHJ. The charging light source shall be of a type specified in the product markings. [101:7.10.7.2]

Special signs, where required by other provisions of this Code, shall comply with the visual character requirements of ICC A117.1, Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities. [101:7.10.8.2]