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CHAPTER 5 MEANS OF EGRESS Ramp. A walking surface that has a slope steeper than 1 in 20.
Severe Mobility Impairment. The ability to move to stairs
SECTION 5-1 GENERAL but not the ability to use the stairs.
5-1.1* Application. Means of egress for both new and existing Smokeproof Enclosure.* A stair enclosure designed to limit
buildings shall comply with this chapter. (See also Chapter 1.) the movement of products of combustion produced by a fire.
5-1.2 Definitions. 5-1.3 Separation of Means of Egress. (See also Section 6-2.)
Accessible Area of Refuge. An area of refuge that complies 5-1.3.1* Exit Access Corridors. Corridors used as exit access
with the accessible route requirements of CABO/ANSI A117.1, and serving an area having an occupant load of more than 30 shall be
American National Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings separated from other parts of the building by walls having a 1-hr fire
and Facilities. resistance rating in accordance with 6-2.3.
Accessible Means of Egress.* A path of travel, usable by a Exception No. 1: Existing buildings, provided the occupancy
person with a severe mobility impairment, that leads to a public
classification does not change.
way or an area of refuge. (See 5-5.4.)
Area of Refuge.* (See 5-2.12.) An area of refuge is either: Exception No. 2: As provided in Chapters 8 through 31.

(a) A story in a building where such building is protected 5-1.3.2 Exits.

throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system
5-1.3.2.1 Where an exit is required in this Code to be separated
installed in accordance with Section 7-7 and has at least two acces-
from other parts of the building, the separating construction shall
sible rooms or spaces separated from each other by smoke-resisting
meet the requirements of Section 6-2 and the following:
partitions, or
(a)* The separation has at least a 1-hr fire resistance rating
Exception to (a): Two accessible rooms or spaces shall not be re-
where the exit connects three stories or less; and
quired as permitted in Chapters 8 through 31.
(b)* The separation has at least a 2-hr fire resistance rating
(b) A space, in a path of travel leading to a public way, that is where the exit connects four or more stories. It shall be constructed
protected from the effects of fire, either by means of separation from of an assembly of noncombustible or limited-combustible materi-
other spaces in the same building or by virtue of location, thereby als and shall be supported by construction having at least a 2-hr fire
permitting a delay in egress travel from any level. resistance rating; and
Common Path of Travel.* That portion of exit access that is Exception No. 1 to (b): In existing non-high-rise buildings exist-
traversed before two separate and distinct paths of travel to two ex- ing exit stair enclosures shall have not less than a 1-hr fire resistance
its are available. Paths that merge are common paths of travel. rating.
Elevator Evacuation System. A system, including a vertical Exception No. 2 to (b): In existing buildings protected throughout
series of elevator lobbies and the associated elevator lobby doors,
by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accor-
an elevator shaft(s), and a machine room(s) that provides protection
from fire effects for elevator passengers, people waiting to use ele- dance with Section 7-7, existing exit stair enclosures shall have not
vators, and elevator equipment, to allow use of elevators for egress. less than a 1-hr fire resistance rating.

Elevator Lobby. A space from which people directly enter an Exception No. 3 to (b): One-hr enclosures in accordance with
elevator car(s) and to which people directly leave an elevator car(s). 16-2.2.1.2, 17-2.2.1.2, 18-2.2.1.2, and 19-2.2.1.2.
Elevator Lobby Door. A door between an elevator lobby and (c) Openings therein are protected by fire door assemblies
another building space that is not the elevator shaft. equipped with door closers complying with 5-2.1.8; and
Exit.* That portion of a means of egress that is separated from (d) Openings in exit enclosures are limited to those necessary
all other spaces of the building or structure by construction or for access to the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and cor-
equipment in accordance with 5-1.3.2 to provide a protected way ridors, and for egress from the enclosure; and
of travel to the exit discharge.
Exception to (d): Exit passageways in covered mall buildings as
Exit Access. That portion of a means of egress that leads to an provided in Chapters 24 and 25.
exit.
(e) Penetrations into and openings through an exit enclosure as-
Exit Discharge. That portion of a means of egress between sembly are prohibited except for electrical conduit serving the
the termination of an exit and a public way. stairway, required exit doors, duct work and equipment necessary
Horizontal Exit.* A way of passage from one building to an for independent stair pressurization, water or steam piping neces-
area of refuge in another building on approximately the same level, sary for the heating or cooling of the exit enclosure, sprinkler pip-
or a way of passage through or around a fire barrier to an area of ing, and standpipes; and
refuge on approximately the same level in the same building that Exception No. 1 to (e): Existing penetrations protected in accor-
affords safety from fire and smoke originating from the area of in-
dance with 6-2.3.2.4.
cidence and areas communicating therewith. (See 5-2.4.)
Means of Egress.* A continuous and unobstructed way of Exception No. 2 to (e): Penetrations for fire alarm circuits shall
travel from any point in a building or structure to a public way con- be permitted within enclosures where fire alarm circuits are in-
sisting of three separate and distinct parts: (a) the exit access, stalled in metallic conduit and penetrations are protected in accor-
(b) the exit, and (c) the exit discharge. dance with 6-2.3.2.4.

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(f) Penetrations or communicating openings are prohibited be- not, even in case of failure, impede or prevent emergency use of
tween adjacent exit enclosures. such means of egress.
5-1.3.2.2 An exit enclosure shall provide a continuous protected Exception No. 1: As provided in 5-2.1.6.
path of travel to an exit discharge.
Exception No. 2: As provided in Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15.
5-1.3.2.3* An exit enclosure shall not be used for any purpose
that has the potential to interfere with its use as an exit and, if so 5-1.9 Means of Egress Reliability.
designated, as an area of refuge. (See also 5-2.2.5.3.) 5-1.9.1* Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free
5-1.3.3 Exit Passageways. An exit passageway that serves as a of all obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of
discharge from a stair enclosure shall have the same fire resistance fire or other emergency.
rating and opening protective fire protection rating as that required
5-1.9.2 Furnishings and Decorations in Means of Egress.
for the stair enclosure, and shall be separated from other parts of
the building in accordance with 5-1.3.2. 5-1.9.2.1 No furnishings, decorations, or other objects shall be
placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom, or visibil-
Exception No. 1: Fire windows in accordance with 6-2.3.2.3 in- ity thereof.
stalled in such a separation in a building protected throughout by
an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in 5-1.9.2.2 There shall be no obstructions by railings, barriers, or
accordance with Section 7-7. gates that divide the open space into sections appurtenant to indi-
vidual rooms, apartments, or other uses. Where the authority hav-
Exception No. 2: Existing fixed wired glass panels in steel sash in ing jurisdiction finds the required path of travel to be obstructed by
such a separation in a building protected throughout by an ap- furniture or other movable objects, the authority shall be permitted
proved, automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with to require that they be fastened out of the way or shall be permitted
Section 7-7. to require that railings or other permanent barriers be installed to
protect the path of travel against encroachment.
5-1.4 Interior Finish in Exits. The flame spread of interior fin-
ish on walls and ceilings shall be limited to Class A or Class B in 5-1.9.2.3 Mirrors shall not be placed on exit doors. Mirrors shall
exit enclosures in accordance with Section 6-5. (See Chapters 8 not be placed in or adjacent to any exit in such a manner as to con-
through 31 for further limitations.) fuse the direction of egress.

5-1.5 Headroom. Means of egress shall be designed and main- SECTION 5-2 MEANS OF EGRESS COMPONENTS
tained to provide headroom as provided in other sections of this
Code, and shall be at least 7 ft 6 in. (2.3 m) with projections from 5-2.1 Doors.
the ceiling at least 6 ft 8 in. (2 m) nominal height above the finished 5-2.1.1 General.
floor. Headroom on stairs shall be a minimum of 6 ft 8 in. (2 m),
and shall be measured vertically above a plane parallel to and tan- 5-2.1.1.1 A door assembly in a means of egress shall conform to
gent with the most forward projection of the stair tread. the general requirements of Section 5-1 and to the special require-
ments of this subsection. Such an assembly shall be designated as a
Exception No. 1: In existing buildings, the ceiling height shall door.
not be less than 7 ft (2.1 m) from the floor with no projection below
a 6 ft 8 in. (2 m) nominal height from the floor. 5-2.1.1.2 Every door and every principal entrance that is required
to serve as an exit shall be designed and constructed so that the way
Exception No. 2: Industrial equipment access as provided in of egress travel is obvious and direct. Windows that, because of
Chapter 28. their physical configuration or design and the materials used in
their construction, have the potential to be mistaken for doors shall
5-1.6 Changes in Level in Means of Egress. be made inaccessible to the occupants by barriers or railings.
5-1.6.1 Changes in level in means of egress shall be either by a 5-2.1.1.3* For the purposes of Section 5-2, a building shall be
ramp or a stair where the elevation difference is more than 21 in. considered to be occupied at any time it is open for general occu-
(53.3 cm). pancy, open to the public, or at any other time it is occupied by
more than 10 persons.
5-1.6.2* Changes in level in means of egress not more than 21 in.
(53.3 cm) shall be either by a ramp or by a stair complying with the 5-2.1.2 Egress Width.
requirements of 5-2.2. The presence and location of ramped por-
tions of walkways shall be readily apparent. The minimum tread 5-2.1.2.1* In determining the egress width for a doorway for pur-
depth of such stair shall be 13 in. (33 cm), and the presence and lo- poses of calculating capacity, only the clear width of the doorway
cation of each step shall be readily apparent. when the door is in the full open position shall be measured. Clear
width shall be the net, unobstructed width of the door opening
5-1.7 Guards. Guards in accordance with 5-2.2.4 shall be pro- without projections into such width.
vided at the open sides of means of egress that are more than 30 in.
(76 cm) above the floor or grade below. 5-2.1.2.2 Door openings in means of egress shall be at least 32 in.
(81 cm) in clear width. Where a pair of doors is provided, at least
5-1.8 Construction Quality, Impediments to Egress. one of the doors shall provide at least a 32-in. (81-cm) clear width
5-1.8.1 Means of egress components shall be of substantial, reli- opening.
able construction and shall be built or installed in a skillful manner. Exception No. 1: Exit access doors serving a room not larger
5-1.8.2 Any device or alarm installed to restrict the improper use than 70 sq ft (6.5 sq m) and not required to be accessible to persons
of a means of egress shall be designed and installed so that it can- in wheelchairs shall be at least 24 in. (61 cm) in door width.

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Exception No. 2: In existing buildings, the door width shall be at Exception No. 3: Horizontal sliding doors complying with 5-
least 28 in. (71 cm). 2.1.14.
Exception No. 3: As provided in Chapters 14 and 15. Exception No. 4: Doors to private garages and industrial and
storage areas with an occupant load of not more than 10, where
Exception No. 4: Interior doors as provided in Chapter 21. such garages and industrial and storage areas contain low or ordi-
Exception No. 5: A power-operated door leaf located within a nary hazard contents.
two-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-in. (81-cm) Exception No. 5: Revolving doors complying with 5-2.1.10.
single-leaf requirement in accordance with Exception No. 2 to 5-
Exception No. 6: Existing fusible link-operated horizontal slid-
2.1.9.
ing or vertical rolling fire doors where permitted in Chapters 8
through 31.
5-2.1.3 Floor Level. The elevation of the floor surfaces on both 5-2.1.4.2 Doors required to be side-hinged or pivoted-swinging
sides of a door shall not vary by more than 1/2 in. (13 mm). The ele- type shall swing in the direction of egress travel where serving a
vation shall be maintained on both sides of the doorway for a dis- room or area with an occupant load of 50 or more.
tance at least equal to the width of the widest leaf. Thresholds at
doorways shall not be more than 1/2 in. (13 mm) in height. Raised Exception No. 1: Doors in horizontal exits shall not be required
thresholds and floor level changes more than 1/4 in. (6.4 mm) at to swing in the direction of egress travel where exempted in 5-
doorways shall be bevelled with a slope not steeper than 1 in 2. 2.4.3.6.
Exception No. 1: In one- and two-family dwellings and in exist- Exception No. 2: Smoke barrier doors as provided in Chapter 13.
ing buildings where the door discharges to the outside or to an ex-
5-2.1.4.3 Doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel
terior balcony or exterior exit access, the floor level outside the where used in an exit enclosure or where serving a high hazard
door shall be permitted to be one step lower than the inside, but not contents area.
more than 8 in. (20.3 cm) lower.
Exception: Doors from individual living units that open directly
Exception No. 2: In one- and two-family dwellings and existing into an exit enclosure.
buildings, a door at the top of a stair shall be permitted to open di-
rectly at a stair provided the door does not swing over the stair and 5-2.1.4.4* During its swing, any door in a means of egress shall
leave unobstructed at least one half of the required width of an
the door serves an area with an occupant load of fewer than 50
aisle, corridor, passageway, or landing, nor project more than 7 in.
persons. (17.8 cm) into the required width of an aisle, corridor, passageway,
5-2.1.4 Swing and Force to Open. or landing, when fully open. Doors shall not open immediately
onto a stair without a landing. The landing shall have a width at
5-2.1.4.1* Any door in a means of egress shall be of the side- least equal to the width of the door. (See 5-2.1.3.)
hinged or pivoted-swinging type. The door shall be designed and
Exception: In existing buildings, a door providing access to a
installed so that it is capable of swinging from any position to the
full use of the opening in which it is installed. stair shall maintain an unobstructed width of a stair or landing of
at least 22 in. (55.9 cm) and, when open, project not more than 7
Exception No. 1: Sliding doors as provided in Chapters 14 and in. (17.8 cm) into the required width of a stair or landing.
15, and doors as provided in Chapter 21.
5-2.1.4.5 The forces required to fully open any door manually in
Exception No. 2: Where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31, hor- a means of egress shall not be more than 15 lbf (67 N) to release the
izontal sliding or vertical rolling security grilles or doors that are latch, 30 lbf (133 N) to set the door in motion, and 15 lbf (67 N) to
part of the required means of egress shall be permitted, provided open the door to the minimum required width. Opening forces for
interior side-hinged or pivoted-swinging doors without closers
that
shall not be more than 5 lbf (22 N). These forces shall be applied at
(a) They remain secured in the full open position during the pe- the latch stile.
riod of occupancy by the general public; and Exception No. 1: The opening force for doors in existing build-
(b) On or adjacent to the door, there is a readily visible, durable ings shall not be more than 50 lbf (222 N) applied to the latch stile.
sign in letters at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) high on a contrasting back- Exception No. 2: Horizontal sliding doors as provided in Chap-
ground that reads: ters 14 and 15.
“THIS DOOR TO REMAIN OPEN WHEN Exception No. 3: Power-operated doors as provided in 5-2.1.9.
THE BUILDING IS OCCUPIED”; and
5-2.1.4.6 Screen doors and storm doors used in a means of egress
(c) Doors or grilles are not brought to the closed position when shall not swing against the direction of egress travel where doors
the space is occupied; and are required to swing in the direction of egress travel.
(d) Doors or grilles are operable from within the space without 5-2.1.5 Locks, Latches, and Alarm Devices.
the use of any special knowledge or effort; and
5-2.1.5.1 Doors shall be arranged to be opened readily from the
(e) Where two or more means of egress are required, not more egress side whenever the building is occupied. Locks, if provided,
than half of the means of egress are equipped with horizontal slid- shall not require the use of a key, a tool, or special knowledge or ef-
ing or vertical rolling grilles or doors. fort for operation from the inside of the building.

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Exception No. 1: As provided in Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15. Exception:* Egress doors from individual living units and guest
rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided
Exception No. 2: Exterior doors shall be permitted to have key-
with devices that require not more than one additional releasing
operated locks from the egress side, provided that
operation, provided such device is operable from the inside without
(a) This exception is permitted in Chapters 8 through 31 for the the use of a key or tool and is mounted at a height not more than 48
specific occupancy; and in. (122 cm) above the finished floor. Existing security devices shall
(b) On or adjacent to the door, there is a readily visible, durable be permitted to have two additional releasing operations. Existing
sign in letters at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) high on a contrasting back- security devices other than automatic latching devices shall not be
ground that reads: located more than 60 in. (152 cm) in height above the finished
floor. Automatic latching devices shall not be located more than 48
“THIS DOOR TO REMAIN OPEN WHEN in. (122 cm) above the finished floor.
THE BUILDING IS OCCUPIED”; and
(c) The locking device is of a type that is readily distinguishable 5-2.1.5.4 Where pairs of doors are required in a means of egress,
each leaf of the pair shall be provided with its own releasing de-
as locked; and
vice. Devices that depend upon the release of one door before the
(d) A key is immediately available to any occupant inside the other shall not be used.
building when it is locked.
Exception: Where exit doors are used in pairs and approved au-
This exception shall be permitted to be revoked by the authority tomatic flush bolts are used, the door leaf having the automatic
having jurisdiction for cause. flush bolts shall have no doorknob or surface-mounted hardware.
Exception No. 3: Where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31, key The unlatching of any leaf shall not require more than one opera-
operation shall be permitted, provided the key cannot be removed tion.
when the door is locked from the side from which egress is to be
5-2.1.5.5* Devices shall not be installed in connection with any
made. door on which panic hardware or fire exit hardware is required,
5-2.1.5.2* Every stair enclosure door shall permit reentry from provided such device prevents or is intended to prevent the free use
the stair enclosure to the interior of the building, or an automatic of the door for purposes of egress.
release shall be provided to unlock all stair enclosure doors to per- Exception: As otherwise provided in 5-2.1.6.
mit reentry. Such automatic release shall be actuated with the initi-
ation of the building fire alarm system. 5-2.1.6 Special Locking Arrangements.
Exception No. 1: Selected doors on stair enclosures shall be per- 5-2.1.6.1 Delayed Egress Locks. Approved, listed, delayed
mitted to be equipped with hardware that prevents reentry into the egress locks shall be permitted to be installed on doors serving low
interior of the building, provided that and ordinary hazard contents in buildings protected throughout by
an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system installed
(a) There are at least two levels where it is possible to leave the in accordance with Section 7-6, or an approved, supervised auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 7-7,
stair enclosure; and
and where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31, provided that
(b) There are not more than four stories intervening between
stories where it is possible to leave the stair enclosure; and (a) The doors unlock upon actuation of an approved, supervised
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 7-
(c) Reentry is possible on the top or next to top story permitting 7, or upon the actuation of any heat detector or not more than two
access to another exit; and smoke detectors of an approved, supervised automatic fire detec-
(d) Doors permitting reentry are identified as such on the stair tion system installed in accordance with Section 7-6; and
side of the door; and (b) The doors unlock upon loss of power controlling the lock or
(e) Doors not permitting reentry shall be provided with a sign locking mechanism; and
on the stair side indicating the location of the nearest door, in each (c) The doors unlock upon disablement of the automatic fire de-
direction of travel, permitting reentry or exit. tection system, sprinkler system, or the means of sprinkler system
supervision protecting the building area served by the door(s); and
Exception No. 2: Stairs serving not more than four stories.
(d) An irreversible process releases the lock within 15 sec upon
Exception No. 3: Existing installations as permitted in Chapters 8 application to the release device required in 5-2.1.5.3 of a force that
through 31. shall not be required to exceed 15 lbf (67 N) nor required to be con-
tinuously applied for more than 3 sec. The initiation of the release
Exception No. 4: Stair enclosures serving a building permitted to process shall activate a signal in the vicinity of the door to ensure
have a single exit in accordance with Chapters 8 through 32. those attempting to egress that the system is functional. Once the
door lock has been released by the application of force to the re-
Exception No. 5: As provided in Chapters 12 and 14. leasing device, relocking shall be by manual means only; and
5-2.1.5.3* A latch or other fastening device on a door shall be Exception to (d): Where approved by the authority having juris-
provided with a releasing device having an obvious method of op- diction, a delay of not more than 30 sec shall be permitted provided
eration under all lighting conditions. The releasing mechanism for that reasonable life safety is ensured.
any latch shall be located not more than 48 in. (122 cm) above the
finished floor. Doors shall be openable with not more than one re- (e)* On the door adjacent to the release device, there is a readily
leasing operation. visible, durable sign in letters at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) high and at

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least 1/8 in. (0.3 cm) in stroke width on a contrasting background that Exception No. 2: Listed and approved devices that hold the latch
reads: in the retracted position shall be permitted on fire exit hardware.
“PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS. 5-2.1.8* Self-Closing Devices. A door designed to normally be
DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS”. kept closed in a means of egress shall be a self-closing door and
5-2.1.6.2 Access-Controlled Egress Doors. Where permitted in shall not be secured in the open position at any time.
Chapters 8 through 32, doors in the means of egress shall be per- Exception: In any building of low or ordinary hazard contents, as
mitted to be equipped with an approved entrance and egress access defined in 4-2.2.2 and 4-2.2.3, or where approved by the authority
control system, provided that having jurisdiction, doors shall be permitted to be automatic-clos-
(a) A sensor is provided on the egress side arranged to detect an ing, provided that
occupant approaching the doors and the doors are arranged to un- (a) Upon release of the hold-open mechanism, the door be-
lock upon detection of approaching occupant or loss of power to
comes self-closing; and
the sensor; and
(b) The release device is designed so that the door instantly re-
(b) Loss of power to that part of the access control system that
leases manually and upon release becomes self-closing, or the
locks the doors automatically unlocks the doors; and
door closes by some simple or readily obvious operation; and
(c) The doors are arranged to unlock from a manual release de-
vice located 40 in. (102 cm) to 48 in. (122 cm) vertically above the (c) The automatic releasing mechanism or medium is activated
floor and within 5 ft (1.5 m) of the secured doors. The manual re- by (1) the operation of an approved, automatic smoke detection
lease device shall be readily accessible and clearly identified by a system installed in accordance with Section 7-6 to protect the en-
sign that reads: tire building, designed and installed to provide for actuation of the
system promptly so as to preclude the generation of heat or smoke
“PUSH TO EXIT”.
sufficient to interfere with egress before the system operates, or
When operated, the manual release device shall result in direct (2) the operation of approved smoke detectors installed in such a
interruption of power to the lock—independent of the access con- way as to detect smoke on either side of the door opening, as de-
trol system electronics—and the doors shall remain unlocked for at tailed in NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code. The above systems
least 30 sec; and shall be permitted to be zoned where approved by the authority
(d) Activation of the building fire-protective signaling system, having jurisdiction; and
if provided, automatically unlocks the doors, and the doors remain (d) Any fire detection system or smoke detector is provided with
unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system has been manu- such supervision and safeguards as are necessary to ensure reli-
ally reset; and ability of operation in case of fire (see also Section 7-6); and
(e) Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire detec- (e) Upon loss of power to the hold-open device, the hold-open
tion system, if provided, automatically unlocks the doors and the mechanism is released and the door becomes self-closing; and
doors remain unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system
has been manually reset. (f) The release by means of smoke detection of one door in a
stair enclosure results in closing all doors serving that stair.
5-2.1.7 Panic Hardware and Fire Exit Hardware.
5-2.1.9* Power-Operated Doors. Where required doors are op-
5-2.1.7.1 Panic hardware and fire exit hardware consist of a door- erated by power upon the approach of a person or doors with
latching assembly incorporating a device that releases the latch power-assisted manual operation, the design shall be such that in
upon the application of a force in the direction of egress travel. Fire the event of power failure, the door opens manually to permit
exit hardware additionally provides fire protection where used as egress travel or closes where necessary to safeguard the means of
part of a fire door assembly. egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not
be more than required in 5-2.1.4.5 except that the force required to
5-2.1.7.2 Where a door is required to be equipped with panic or
set the door in motion shall not be more than 50 lbf (222 N). The
fire exit hardware, such releasing device shall
door shall be designed and installed so that when a force is applied
(a) Consist of bars or panels, the actuating portion of which ex- to the door on the side from which egress is made, it shall be capa-
tends across at least one half of the width of the door leaf, at least ble of swinging from any position to the full use of the required
30 in. (76 cm) and not more than 44 in. (112 cm) above the floor; width of the opening in which it is installed. (See 5-2.1.4.) On the
and egress side of each door, there shall be a readily visible, durable
(b) Cause the door latch to release when a force that shall not be sign that reads:
required to exceed 15 lbf (67 N) is applied. “IN EMERGENCY PUSH TO OPEN”.
5-2.1.7.3 Only approved panic hardware shall be used on doors The sign shall be in letters not less than 1 in. (2.5 cm) high on a
that are not fire doors. Only approved fire exit hardware shall be contrasting background.
used on fire doors. Exception No. 1: Sliding, power-operated doors in exit access
5-2.1.7.4 Required panic hardware and fire exit hardware shall serving an occupant load of fewer than 50 that manually opens in
not be equipped with any locking device, set screw, or other ar- the direction of door travel with forces not more than required in 5-
rangement that prevents the release of the latch when pressure is 2.1.4.5 shall not be required to have a swing-out feature. The re-
applied to the releasing device. Devices that hold the latch in the re- quired sign shall state “In Emergency Slide to Open”.
tracted position shall be prohibited on fire exit hardware.
Exception No. 1: As provided in Chapters 14 and 15.

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Exception No. 2:* In the emergency break-out mode, a door leaf (a) Revolving doors are not given credit for more than 50 per-
located within a two-leaf opening shall be exempt from the mini- cent of the required egress capacity, and
mum 32-in. (81-cm) single-leaf requirement of 5-2.1.2.2 provided (b) Each revolving door is credited with not more than 50 per-
the clear width of the single leaf is at least 30 in. (76 cm). sons capacity, and

Exception No. 3: For a biparting sliding door in the emergency Exception to (b): Revolving doors with at least a 9-ft (2.7-m) di-
break-out mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening ameter shall be permitted egress capacity based on the clear open-
shall be exempt from the minimum 32 in. (81 cm) single-leaf re- ing width provided.
quirement of 5-2.1.2.2 if a minimum of 32 in. (81 cm) clear opening (c) Revolving doors are capable of being collapsed into a
is provided by all leafs broken out. book-fold position when a force of not more than 130 lbf (578 N)
is applied to wings within 3 in. (7.6 cm) of the outer edge.
Exception No. 4: Doors complying with 5-2.1.14.
5-2.1.10.3 Revolving doors not used as a component of a means
Exception No. 5: As provided in Chapters 14 and 15. of egress shall have a collapsing force of not more than 180 lbf
(800 N).
5-2.1.10 Revolving Doors.
Exception: Revolving doors, provided the collapsing force is re-
5-2.1.10.1 Revolving doors shall comply with the following:
duced to not more than 130 lbf (578 N) where:
(a) Revolving doors shall be capable of being collapsed into a
(a) There is a power failure or power is removed to the device
book-fold position; and
holding the wings in position, and
Exception to (a): Existing revolving doors where approved by the (b) There is an actuation of the automatic sprinkler system
authority having jurisdiction. where such system is provided, and
(b) When in the book-fold position, the parallel egress paths (c) There is actuation of a smoke detection system that is in-
formed shall provide an aggregate width of 36 in. (91 cm); and stalled to provide coverage in all areas within the building that are
within 75 ft (23 m) of the revolving doors, and
Exception to (b): Existing revolving doors where approved by the
authority having jurisdiction. (d) There is the actuation of a clearly identified manual control
switch in an approved location that reduces the holding force to not
(c) Revolving doors shall not be used within 10 ft (3 m) of the more than 130 lbf (578 N).
foot or top of stairs, or escalators. Under all conditions, there shall
be a dispersal area acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction 5-2.1.11 Turnstiles.
between the stairs or escalators and the revolving door; and 5-2.1.11.1 Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one
(d) The revolutions per minute (rpm) of revolving doors shall direction or are used to collect fares or admission charges shall be
not exceed values in the following table: placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress.
Exception No. 1: Approved turnstiles not more than 39 in. (99
Power Driven-Type Manual-Type Speed cm) high that turn freely in the direction of egress travel shall be
Inside Diameter Speed Control (rpm) Control (rpm) permitted where revolving doors are permitted in Chapters 8
through 31.
6 ft 6 in. (2 m) 11 12
7 ft 0 in. (2.1 m) 10 11 Exception No. 2: Where turnstiles are approved by the authority
7 ft 6 in. (2.3 m) 9 11
having jurisdiction and permitted in Chapters 8 through 31, each
8 ft 0 in. (2.4 m) 9 10
8 ft 6 in. (2.6 m) 8 9 turnstile shall be credited for 50 persons capacity provided such
9 ft 0 in. (2.7 m) 8 9 turnstiles:
9 ft 6 in. (2.9 m) 7 8
10 ft 0 in. (3.0 m) 7 8
(a) Freewheel in the egress direction when primary power is
lost, and freewheel in the direction of egress travel upon the man-
ual release by an employee assigned in the area; and
(e) Each revolving door shall have a conforming side-hinged (b) Are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required
swinging door in the same wall as the revolving door and within 10
egress width; and
ft (3 m) of the revolving door.
(c) Are not more than 39 in. (99 cm) high and have a clear
Exception No. 1 to (e): Revolving doors shall be permitted with- width of at least 161/2 in. (41.9 cm).
out adjacent swinging doors for street floor elevator lobbies pro-
vided no stairways or doors from other parts of the building 5-2.1.11.2 Turnstiles more than 39 in. (99 cm) high shall meet the
requirements for revolving doors.
discharge through the lobby and the lobby has no occupancy other
than as a means of travel between elevators and street. 5-2.1.11.3 Turnstiles in or furnishing access to required exits
shall provide at least 161/2 in. (41.9 cm) clear width at and below a
Exception No. 2 to (e): Existing revolving doors where the num- height of 39 in. (99 cm) and at least 22 in. (55.9 cm) clear width at
ber of revolving doors is not more than the number of swinging heights above 39 in. (99 cm).
doors within 20 ft (6.1 m).
5-2.1.12 Doors in Folding Partitions. Where permanently
5-2.1.10.2 Where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31, revolving mounted folding or movable partitions divide a room into smaller
doors shall be permitted as a component in a means of egress, pro- spaces, a swinging door or open doorway shall be provided as an
vided that exit access from each such space.

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Exception No. 1: The swinging door shall not be required, and the Table 5-2.2.2.1(a) New Stairs
partition shall be permitted to enclose the space completely, pro-
vided that Minimum width clear of all obstructions, 44 in. (112 cm); 36 in. (91 cm)
except projections where total occupant load of all
(a) The subdivided space is not used by more than 20 persons at not more than 31/2 in. (8.9 cm) at or below stories served by stairways is
any time; and handrail height on each side fewer than 50
(b) The use of the space is under adult supervision; and Maximum height of risers 7 in. (17.8 cm)
(c) The partitions are arranged so that they do not extend Minimum height of risers 4 in. (10.2 cm)
Minimum tread depth 11 in. (27.9 cm)
across any aisle or corridor used as an exit access to the required Minimum headroom 6 ft 8 in. (203 cm)
exits from the story; and Maximum height between landings 12 ft (3.7 m)
(d) The partitions conform to the interior finish and other re- Landing (See 5-2.1.3 and 5-2.1.4.4.)
quirements of this Code; and
(e) The partitions are of an approved type, have a simple Exception No. 1:* Existing stairs in existing buildings shall be
method of release, and are capable of being opened quickly and permitted to remain in use provided they meet the requirements for
easily by experienced persons in case of emergency. existing stairs shown in the table for existing stairs. Where ap-
proved by the authority having jurisdiction, existing stairs shall be
Exception No. 2: Where a subdivided space is provided with at
permitted to be rebuilt in accordance with the Table 5-2.2.2.1(b)’s
least two means of egress, the swinging door in the folding parti-
dimensional criteria for existing stairs and in accordance with
tion shall not be required, and one such means of egress shall be
other Code requirements in 5-2.2 for stairs.
permitted to be equipped with a horizontal sliding door complying
with 5-2.1.14.
Table 5-2.2.2.1(b) Existing Stairs
5-2.1.13 Balanced Doors. If panic hardware is installed on bal-
anced doors, the panic hardware shall be of the push-pad type, and Class A Class B
the pad shall not extend more than approximately one half the 44 in. 44 in.
width of the door measured from the latch side. [See 5-2.1.7.2(a).] (112 cm) (112 cm)
Minimum width clear of all
5-2.1.14 Horizontal Sliding Doors. Horizontal sliding doors obstructions, except projections not 36 in. (91 cm) where total
shall be permitted in means of egress, provided that more than 31/2 in. (8.9 cm) at or below occupant load of all stories served
handrail height on each side by stairways is fewer than 50
(a) The door is operable by a simple method from either side
without special knowledge or effort; and Maximum height of risers 71/2 in. 8 in.
(19.1 cm) (20.3 cm)
(b) The force, applied to the operating device in the direction of
egress, required to operate the door is not more than 15 lbf (67 N); Minimum tread depth 10 in. 9 in.
and (25.4 cm) (22.9 cm)
(c) The force required to operate the door in the direction of Minimum headroom 6 ft 8 in. 6 ft 8 in.
door travel is not more than 30 lbf (133 N) to set the door in motion (203 cm) (203 cm)
and 15 lbf (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum re-
Maximum height between landings 12 ft 12 ft
quired width; and
(3.7 m) (3.7 m)
(d) The door is operable with a force not more than 50 lbf (222
N) when a force of 250 lbf (1110 N) is applied perpendicularly to Landing (See 5-2.1.3 and 5-2.1.4.4 .)
the door adjacent to the operating device; and
Exception to (d): Horizontal sliding exit access doors serving an Exception No. 2: Industrial equipment access as provided in
area having an occupant load of fewer than 50. Chapter 28.
(e) The door assembly complies with the fire protection rating 5-2.2.2.2 Monumental Stairs. Monumental stairs, either inside
and, where rated, is self-closing or automatic-closing by smoke or outside, shall be permitted as a component in a means of egress
detection in accordance with 5-2.1.8, and is installed in accor- where all the requirements for stairs are met.
dance with NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Fire Windows.
5-2.2.2.3 Curved Stairs. Curved stairs shall be permitted as a
5-2.2 Stairs. component in a means of egress provided the minimum depth of
tread is 11 in. (27.9 cm) at a point 12 in. (30.5 cm) from the nar-
5-2.2.1 General. Stairs used as a component in the means of
rower end of the tread, and the smallest radius is at least twice the
egress shall conform to the general requirements of Section 5-1 and
stair width.
to the special requirements of this subsection.
Exception: Existing curved stairs shall be permitted provided the
Exception No. 1: Aisle steps provided in Chapters 8 and 9.
minimum depth of tread is 10 in. (25.4 cm) and the smallest radius
Exception No. 2: Existing noncomplying stairs where approved is at least twice the stair width.
by the authority having jurisdiction.
5-2.2.2.4 Spiral Stairs. Where permitted in Chapters 8 through
5-2.2.2 Dimensional Criteria. 31, spiral stairs shall be permitted as a component in a means of
egress, provided that
5-2.2.2.1 Standard Stairs. Stairs shall be in accordance with
Table 5-2.2.2.1(a). (a) The occupant load served is not more than 5, and

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(b) The clear width of the stairs is at least 26 in. (66 cm), and smallest riser or between the largest and smallest tread shall not be
(c) The height of risers is not more than 91/2 in. (24.1 cm), and more than 3/8 in. (1 cm) in any flight.
(d) Headroom is at least 6 ft 6 in. (198 cm), and Exception: Where the bottom riser adjoins a sloping public way,
(e) Treads have a minimum depth of 71/2 in. (19.1 cm) at a point walk, or driveway having an established grade and serving as a
12 in. (30.5 cm) from the narrower edge, and landing, a variation in height of the bottom riser of not more than 3
(f) All treads are identical. in. (7.6 cm) in every 3 ft (91 cm) of stairway width shall be permit-
ted.
5-2.2.2.5* Winders. Where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31,
winders shall be permitted in stairs. Winders shall have a mini- 5-2.2.4 Guards and Handrails.
mum tread depth of 6 in. (15.2 cm) and a minimum depth of tread
of 11 in. (27.9 cm) at a point 12 in. (30.5 cm) from the narrowest 5-2.2.4.1* Guards. Means of egress that are more than 30 in.
edge. (76 cm) above the floor or grade below shall be provided with
guards to prevent falls over the open side.
Exception: Existing winders shall be permitted to remain pro-
vided they have a minimum tread depth of 6 in. (15.2 cm) and a 5-2.2.4.2* Handrails. Stairs and ramps shall have handrails on
minimum depth of tread of 9 in. (22.9 cm) at a point 12 in. (30.5 both sides. In addition, handrails shall be provided within 30 in. (76
cm) of all portions of the required egress width of stairs. The re-
cm) from the narrowest edge.
quired egress width shall be along the natural path of travel. (See
5-2.2.3 Stair Details. also 5-2.2.4.5.)
5-2.2.3.1 Construction. Exception No. 1: On existing stairs, handrails shall be provided
within 44 in. (112 cm) of all portions of the required egress width of
5-2.2.3.1.1 All stairs serving as required means of egress shall be
of permanent fixed construction. stairs.

Exception: Stairs serving seating that is designed to be reposi- Exception No. 2: If part of a curb separating a sidewalk from a
tioned in accordance with Chapters 8 and 9. vehicular way, a single step or a ramp shall not be required to have
a handrail.
5-2.2.3.1.2 Each stair, platform, and landing in buildings required
in this Code to be of Type I or Type II construction shall be of non- Exception No. 3: Existing stairs, existing ramps, stairs within
combustible material throughout. dwelling units and within guest rooms, and ramps within dwelling
units and guest rooms shall have a handrail on at least one side.
Exception No. 1: Handrails.
5-2.2.4.3 Continuity. Required guards and handrails shall con-
Exception No. 2: Existing stairs.
tinue for the full length of each flight of stairs. At turns of stairs, in-
5-2.2.3.2 Landings. Stairs and intermediate landings shall con- side handrails shall be continuous between flights at landings.
tinue with no decrease in width along the direction of egress travel.
Exception: On existing stairs, handrails shall not be required to
In new buildings, every landing shall have a dimension measured in
direction of travel equal to the width of the stair. be continuous between flights of stairs at landings.

Exception: Landings shall be permitted to be not more than 4 ft 5-2.2.4.4 Projections. The design of guards and handrails and
(122 cm) in the direction of travel provided the stair has a straight the hardware for attaching handrails to guards, balusters, or walls
shall be such that there are no projections that might engage loose
run.
clothing. Openings in guards shall be designed to prevent loose
5-2.2.3.3* Tread and Landing Surfaces. Stair treads and land- clothing from becoming wedged in such openings.
ings shall be solid, uniformly slip resistant, and free of projections
5-2.2.4.5* Handrail Details.
or lips that could trip stair users. If not vertical, risers shall be per-
mitted to slope under the tread at an angle of not more than 30 de- (a) Handrails on stairs shall be at least 34 in. (86 cm) and not
grees from vertical, however, the permitted projection of the nosing more than 38 in. (96 cm) above the surface of the tread, measured
shall not be more than 11/2 in. (3.8 cm). vertically to the top of the rail from the leading edge of the tread.
Exception: Noncombustible grated stair treads and landings as Exception No. 1 to (a): The height of required handrails that
provided in Chapters 8, 9, 14, 15, and 28. form part of a guard shall be permitted to be not more than 42 in.
(107 cm) measured vertically to the top of the rail from the leading
5-2.2.3.4* Tread Slope. Tread slope shall not be more than 1/4 in.
per ft (2 cm per m) (a slope of 1 in 48). edge of the tread.

5-2.2.3.5* Riser Height and Tread Depth. Riser height shall Exception No. 2 to (a): Existing required handrails shall be at
be measured as the vertical distance between tread nosings. Tread least 30 in. (76 cm) and not more than 38 in. (96 cm) above the up-
depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of per surface of the tread, measured vertically to the top of the rail
the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the from the leading edge of the tread.
tread’s leading edge, but shall not include bevelled or rounded tread
surfaces that slope more than 20 degrees (a slope of 1 in 2.75). At Exception No. 3 to (a):* Additional handrails that are lower or
tread nosings, such bevelling or rounding shall not be more than 1/2 higher than the main handrail shall be permitted.
in. (1.3 cm) in horizontal dimension. (b)* New handrails shall provide a clearance of at least 11/2 in.
5-2.2.3.6 Dimensional Uniformity. There shall be no variation (3.8 cm) between the handrail and the wall to which it is fastened.
more than 3/16 in. (0.5 cm) in the depth of adjacent treads or in the (c)* Handrails shall have a circular cross section with an out-
height of adjacent risers, and the tolerance between the largest and side diameter of at least 11/4 in. (3.2 cm) and not more than 2 in. (5

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cm). New handrails shall be continuously graspable along the en- and at least 50 percent of the number and capacity of exits on the
tire length. story of exit discharge shall be independent of such enclosures.
Exception No. 1 to (c): Any other shape with a perimeter dimen- 5-2.2.5.2* Exposures. Where nonrated walls or unprotected
sion of at least 4 in. (10.2 cm), but not more than 61/4 in. (15.9 cm), openings enclose the exterior of a stairway and the walls or open-
and with the largest cross-sectional dimension not more than 21/4 in. ings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of not
(5.7 cm) shall be permitted provided that edges are rounded so as more than 180 degrees, the building enclosure walls within 10 ft (3
to provide a minimum radius of 1/8 in. (0.3 cm). m) horizontally of the nonrated wall or unprotected opening shall
be constructed as required for stairway enclosures including open-
Exception No. 2 to (c): Handrail brackets or balusters attached ing protectives. Construction shall extend vertically from the
to the bottom surface of the handrail, which do not project horizon- ground to a point 10 ft (3 m) above the topmost landing of the stairs
tally beyond the sides of the handrail within 1 in. (2.5 cm) of the or to the roofline, whichever is lower.
bottom of the handrail and which have edges with 1/8 in. (0.3 cm)
Exception No. 1: Existing stairways.
minimum radius, shall not be considered to be obstructions to
graspability. Exception No. 2: The fire resistance rating of the separation ex-
tending 10 ft (3 m) from the stairs shall not be required to be more
(d) New handrail ends shall be returned to the wall or floor or
shall terminate at newel posts. than 1 hour with openings having a 3/4-hr fire protection rating.
(e) New handrails that are not continuous between flights shall 5-2.2.5.3* Usable Space. There shall be no enclosed, usable
extend horizontally, at the required height, at least 12 in. (30.5 cm) space within an exit enclosure, including under stairs, nor shall any
beyond the top riser and continue to slope for a depth of one tread open space within the enclosure be used for any purpose that has
beyond the bottom riser. the potential to interfere with egress.
Exception to (e): Where approved by the authority having juris- Exception: Enclosed usable space shall be permitted under stairs
diction because of space limitations and within dwelling units, the provided the space is separated from the stair enclosure by the
horizontal extension at the top of the flight shall not be required same fire resistance as the exit enclosure. Entrance to such en-
provided that the handrail extends, at the required height, to a closed usable space shall not be from within the stair enclosure.
point directly above the top riser. (See also 5-1.3.2.3.)
5-2.2.5.4* Stair Identification Signs. Stairs serving five or
5-2.2.4.6 Guard Details. more stories shall be provided with signage within the enclosure at
(a) The height of guards required in 5-2.2.4.1 shall be measured each floor landing. The signage shall indicate the story, the termi-
vertically to the top of the guard from the surface adjacent thereto. nus of the top and bottom of the stair enclosure, and the identifica-
(b) Guards shall be at least 42 in. (107 cm) high. tion of the stair. The signage also shall state the story of, and the
direction to, exit discharge. The signage shall be inside the enclo-
Exception No. 1 to (b): Existing guards within dwelling units sure located approximately 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor landing in a
shall be at least 36 in. (91 cm) high. position that is readily visible when the door is in the open or
closed position.
Exception No. 2 to (b): As provided in Chapters 8 and 9.
5-2.2.5.5 Egress Direction Signs. Wherever an enclosed stair
Exception No. 3 to (b):* Existing guards on existing stairs shall requires travel in an upward direction to reach the level of exit dis-
be at least 30 in. (76 cm) high. charge, signs with directional indicators indicating the direction to
(c)* Open guards shall have intermediate rails or an ornamental the level of exit discharge shall be provided at each floor level land-
pattern such that a sphere 4 in. (10.1 cm) in diameter shall not pass ing from which upward direction of travel is required. Such sig-
through any opening up to a height of 34 in. (86 cm). nage shall be readily visible when the door is in the open or closed
position.
Exception No. 1 to (c): The triangular openings formed by the
riser, tread, and bottom element of a guardrail at the open side of a Exception No. 1: Where signs required by 5-2.2.5.4 are provided.
stair shall be of such size that a sphere 6 in. (15.2 cm) in diameter Exception No. 2: Stairs that extend not more than 1 story below
shall not pass through the triangular opening. the level of exit discharge where the exit discharge is clearly obvi-
Exception No. 2 to (c): In detention and correctional occupancies, ous.
in industrial occupancies, and in storage occupancies, the clear dis-
5-2.2.6 Special Provisions for Outside Stairs.
tance between intermediate rails measured at right angles to the
rails shall not be more than 21 in. (53.3 cm). 5-2.2.6.1 Access. Where approved by the authority having juris-
diction, outside stairs shall be permitted where leading to roofs of
Exception No. 3 to (c): Approved existing open guards. other sections of the building or an adjoining building, where the
5-2.2.5 Enclosure and Protection of Stairs. construction is fire resistive, where there is a continuous and safe
means of egress from the roof, and where all other reasonable re-
5-2.2.5.1 Enclosures. All inside stairs serving as an exit or exit quirements for life safety are maintained. (See also 5-7.6.)
component shall be enclosed in accordance with 5-1.3.2. All other in-
side stairs shall be protected in accordance with 6-2.4. 5-2.2.6.2 Balconies. Balconies to which egress doors lead shall
be approximately level with the floor of the building.
Exception: In existing buildings, where a two-story exit enclosure
connects the story of exit discharge with an adjacent story, the exit Exception: In existing buildings located in climates where balco-
shall be required only to be enclosed on the story of exit discharge nies are subject to accumulation of snow or ice, one step, not more

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 101–35

than 8 in. (20.3 cm), shall be permitted below the level of the inside 5-2.3.4 Vestibule. Where a vestibule is provided, the doorway
floor. into the vestibule shall be protected with an approved fire door as-
sembly having a 11/2-hr fire protection rating, and the fire door as-
5-2.2.6.3* Visual Protection. Outside stairs shall be arranged to sembly from the vestibule to the stair shall have at least a 20-min
avoid any impediments to the use of the stairs by persons having a fire protection rating. Doors shall be designed to minimize air leak-
fear of high places. For stairs more than three stories in height, any age and shall be self-closing or shall be automatic-closing by actu-
arrangement intended to meet this requirement shall be at least 4 ft ation of a smoke detector within 10 ft (3 m) of the vestibule door.
(1.2 m) in height.
5-2.3.5 Discharge. Every smokeproof enclosure shall discharge
5-2.2.6.4 Separation and Protection of Outside Stairs. Out- into a public way, into a yard or court having direct access to a pub-
side stairs shall be separated from the interior of the building by lic way, or into an exit passageway. Such exit passageways shall be
walls with the fire resistance rating required for enclosed stairs without openings other than the entrance from the smokeproof en-
with fixed or self-closing opening protectives. This construction closure and the door to the outside yard, court, or public way. The
shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 ft (3 m) above exit passageway shall be separated from the remainder of the build-
the topmost landing of the stairs or to the roofline, whichever is lower, ing by a 2-hr fire resistance rating.
and at least 10 ft (3 m) horizontally.
5-2.3.6 Access. Access to the stair shall be by way of a vestibule
Exception No. 1: Outside stairs serving an exterior exit access or by way of an exterior balcony.
balcony that has two remote outside stairways or ramps.
Exception: Smokeproof enclosures consisting of a pressurized
Exception No. 2: Outside stairs serving not more than two adja- stair enclosure complying with 5-2.3.9.
cent stories, including the story of exit discharge, shall be permit-
5-2.3.7 Natural Ventilation. Smokeproof enclosures using nat-
ted to be unprotected where there is a remotely located second exit.
ural ventilation shall comply with 5-2.3.3 and the following:
Exception No. 3: In existing buildings, outside stairs serving not (a) Where access to the stair is by means of an open exterior
more than three adjacent stories, including the story of exit dis- balcony, the door assembly to the stair shall have a 11/2-hr fire pro-
charge, shall be permitted to be unprotected where there is a re- tection rating and shall be self-closing or shall be automatic-clos-
motely located second exit. ing by actuation of a smoke detector. Openings adjacent to such
exterior balconies shall be protected in accordance with 5-2.2.6.5;
Exception No. 4: The fire resistance rating of the separation ex- and
tending 10 ft (3 m) from the stairs shall not be required to be more
(b) Every vestibule shall have a minimum net area of 16 sq ft (1.5
than 1 hr with openings having a 3/4-hr fire protection rating.
sq m) of opening in an exterior wall facing an exterior court, yard,
5-2.2.6.5 Protection of Openings. All openings below an out- or public space at least 20 ft (6.1 m) in width; and
side stair shall be protected with an assembly having a 3/4-hr fire (c) Every vestibule shall have a minimum dimension of at least
protection rating: the required width of the corridor leading to it and a minimum di-
mension of 72 in. (183 cm) in the direction of travel.
(a) Where located in a court, the smallest dimension of which is
not more than one third its height, or 5-2.3.8 Mechanical Ventilation. Smokeproof enclosures by
(b) Where located in an alcove having a width not more than mechanical ventilation shall comply with 5-2.3.3 and the
one third its height and a depth more than one fourth its height. following:

5-2.2.6.6* Water Accumulation. Outside stairs and landings (a) Vestibules shall have a minimum dimension of 44 in. (112
shall be designed to minimize water accumulation on their sur- cm) in width and 72 in. (183 cm) in direction of travel; and
faces. (b) The vestibule shall be provided with at least one air change
per minute, and the exhaust shall be 150 percent of the supply. Sup-
5-2.2.6.7 Openness. Outside stairs shall be at least 50 percent ply air shall enter and exhaust air shall discharge from the vestibule
open on one side and shall be arranged to restrict the accumulation through separate tightly constructed ducts used only for those pur-
of smoke. poses. Supply air shall enter the vestibule within 6 in. (15.2 cm) of
5-2.3 Smokeproof Enclosures. the floor level. The top of the exhaust register shall be located not
more than 6 in. (15.2 cm) down from the top of the trap and shall be
5-2.3.1 General. Where smokeproof enclosures are required in entirely within the smoke trap area. Doors, when in the open posi-
other sections of this Code, they shall comply with 5-2.3. tion, shall not obstruct duct openings. Controlling dampers shall be
Exception: Existing smokeproof enclosures where approved by permitted in duct openings if needed to meet the design require-
the authority having jurisdiction. ments; and
(c) To serve as a smoke and heat trap and to provide an upward
5-2.3.2 Performance Design. The appropriate design method moving air column, the vestibule ceiling shall be at least 20 in.
shall be any system that meets the definition of smokeproof enclo- (50.8 cm) higher than the door opening into the vestibule. The
sure. The smokeproof enclosure shall be permitted to be created by height shall be permitted to be decreased where justified by engi-
using natural ventilation, by using mechanical ventilation incorpo- neering design and field testing; and
rating a vestibule, or by pressurizing the stair enclosure.
(d) The stair shall be provided with a dampered relief opening
5-2.3.3 Enclosure. A smokeproof enclosure shall consist of a at the top and supplied mechanically with sufficient air to discharge
continuous stair enclosed from the highest point to the lowest point at least 2500 cu ft/min (70.8 cu m/min) through the relief opening
by barriers having 2-hr fire resistance ratings. Where a vestibule is while maintaining a minimum positive pressure of 0.10 in. water
used, it shall be within the 2-hr rated enclosure and shall be consid- column (25 Pa) in the stair relative to the vestibule with all doors
ered part of the smokeproof enclosure. closed.

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5-2.3.9 Stair Pressurization. 5-2.4 Horizontal Exits.

5-2.3.9.1* Smokeproof enclosures by stair pressurization shall 5-2.4.1* General. Horizontal exits shall be permitted to be sub-
utilize an approved engineered system with a minimum design stituted for other exits to the extent that the total egress capacity of
pressure difference across the barrier of 0.05 in. water column the other exits (stairs, ramps, doors leading outside the building)
(12.5 Pa) in sprinklered buildings or 0.10 in. water column (25 Pa) shall be at least half that required for the entire area of the building
in nonsprinklered buildings, and shall be capable of maintaining or connected buildings provided no horizontal exits exist.
these pressure differences under likely conditions of stack effect or
wind. The pressure difference across doors shall not be more than Exception: As provided in Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15.
that which permits the door to begin to be opened by a force of 30
5-2.4.2 Fire Compartments.
lbf (133 N) in accordance with 5-2.1.4.5.
5-2.4.2.1 Every fire compartment for which credit is allowed in
5-2.3.9.2 Equipment and ductwork for stair pressurization shall
connection with a horizontal exit shall have, in addition to the hor-
be located
izontal exit or exits, at least one exit, but not less than 50 percent of
(a) Exterior to the building and directly connected to the stair- the required number and capacity of exits, that is not a horizontal
way by ductwork enclosed in noncombustible construction; or exit. Any fire compartment not having an exit leading outside shall
(b) Within the stair enclosure with intake and exhaust air di- be considered as part of an adjoining compartment with an exit
rectly to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by a 2-hr fire-re- leading to the outside.
sistive rating; or Exception: As provided in Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15.
(c) Within the building if separated from the remainder of the
building, including other mechanical equipment, by a 2-hr fire-re- 5-2.4.2.2 Every horizontal exit for which credit is given shall be
sistive rating. arranged so that there are continuously available paths of travel
leading from each side of the exit to stairways or other means of
Exception to (c): Where the building, including the stairway en- egress leading to outside the building.
closure, is protected throughout by an approved, supervised auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 7-7, 5-2.4.2.3 Wherever either side of the horizontal exit is occupied,
the fire resistance rating shall be at least 1 hr. the doors used in connection with the horizontal exit shall be un-
locked from the egress side.
In any case, openings into the required fire resistance rating
shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and Exception: As provided in Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15.
shall be protected by self-closing fire protection-rated devices in 5-2.4.2.4 The floor area on either side of a horizontal exit shall
accordance with 6-2.3.2.3. be sufficient to hold the occupants of both floor areas, providing
5-2.3.10 Activation of Mechanical Ventilation Systems. at least 3 sq ft (0.28 sq m) clear floor area per person.
5-2.3.10.1 For both mechanical ventilation and pressurized stair Exception: Special floor area requirements as provided in Chap-
enclosure systems, the activation of the systems shall be initiated ters 12, 13, 14, and 15.
by a smoke detector installed in an approved location within 10 ft
(3 m) of the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. 5-2.4.3 Fire Barriers.
5-2.3.10.2 The required mechanical systems shall operate at the 5-2.4.3.1 Fire barriers separating buildings or areas between
activation of the smoke detectors in 5-2.3.10.1 and by manual con- which there are horizontal exits shall have a 2-hr fire resistance rat-
trols accessible to the fire department. The required system also shall ing and shall provide a separation continuous to ground. (See also
be initiated by the following, if provided: 6-2.3.)
(a) Water flow signal from a complete automatic sprinkler sys- Exception: Where a fire barrier provides a horizontal exit in any
tem, and story of a building, such fire barrier shall not be required on other
(b) General evacuation alarm signal. (See 7-6.3.5.) stories provided:
5-2.3.11 Door Closers. The activation of an automatic-closing (a) The stories on which the fire barrier is omitted are separated
device on any door in the smokeproof enclosure shall activate all from the story with the horizontal exit by construction having a fire
other automatic-closing devices on doors in the smokeproof enclo- resistance rating at least equal to that of the horizontal exit fire bar-
sure. rier; and
5-2.3.12 Standby Power. Standby power for mechanical venti- (b) Vertical openings between the story with the horizontal exit
lation equipment shall be provided by an approved, self-contained and the open fire area story are enclosed with construction having
generator set to operate whenever there is a loss of power in the a fire resistance rating at least equal to that of the horizontal exit
normal house current. The generator shall be located in a room fire barrier; and
having a minimum 1-hr fire resistance-rated separation from the re-
mainder of the building. The generator shall have a minimum fuel (c) All required exits, other than horizontal exits, discharge di-
supply adequate to operate the equipment for two hours. rectly to the outside.
5-2.3.13 Testing. Before the mechanical equipment is accepted 5-2.4.3.2 Where fire barriers serving horizontal exits terminate at
by the authority having jurisdiction, it shall be tested to confirm outside walls and the outside walls for a distance of 10 ft (3 m) on
that the mechanical equipment is operating in compliance with each side of the horizontal exit are at an angle of less than 180 de-
these requirements. All operating parts of the system shall be tested grees, the outside walls shall have a 1-hr fire resistance rating with
3
semiannually by approved personnel, and a log shall be kept of the /4-hr fire protection rating opening protectives for a distance of 10 ft
results. (3 m) on each side of the horizontal exit.

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Exception: Existing horizontal exits. 5-2.4.4.4 Where the bridge or balcony serves as a horizontal exit
in both directions, doors shall be provided in pairs, swinging in op-
5-2.4.3.3 Fire barriers forming horizontal exits shall not be pene-
posite directions. Only the door swinging in the direction of egress
trated by ducts.
travel shall be counted in determination of egress capacity.
Exception No. 1: Existing penetrations protected by approved
Exception No. 1: If the bridge or balcony has sufficient floor area
and listed fire dampers.
to accommodate the occupant load of either connected building or
Exception No. 2: In buildings protected throughout by an ap- fire area on the basis of 3 sq ft (0.28 sq m) per person.
proved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accor-
Exception No. 2: In existing buildings, doors on both ends of the
dance with Section 7-7.
bridge or balcony shall be permitted to swing out from the building
Exception No. 3: Duct penetrations as permitted in Chapters 14 where approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
and 15 that are protected by combination fire dampers/smoke leak-
age-rated dampers that meet the smoke damper actuation require- Exception No. 3: Horizontal exit door swing as provided in
Chapters 13 and 15.
ments of 6-3.5.
5-2.4.4.5 The bridge or balcony floor shall be approximately
5-2.4.3.4 Any opening in such fire barriers, shall be protected as
level with the building floor and, in climates subject to the accumu-
provided in 6-2.3.2.3.
lation of snow and ice, shall be protected to prevent the accumula-
5-2.4.3.5 Doors in horizontal exits shall comply with 5-2.1.4. tion of snow and ice.
Exception: Sliding doors as provided in Chapters 28 and 29. Exception: In existing buildings in climates where balconies or
bridges are subject to the accumulation of snow or ice, one step,
5-2.4.3.6 Swinging fire doors shall be permitted in horizontal ex-
not more than 8 in. (20.3 cm), shall be permitted below the level of
its, provided:
the inside floor.
(a) They swing in the direction of egress travel; and
5-2.4.4.6 All wall openings, in both of the connected buildings or
(b) Where a horizontal exit serves areas on both sides of a fire
fire areas, any part of which is within 10 ft (3 m) of any bridge or
barrier, there are adjacent openings with swinging doors, opening
balcony as measured horizontally or below, shall be protected with
in opposite directions, with signs on each side of the fire barrier in-
fire doors or fixed fire window assemblies having a 3/4-hr fire pro-
dicating the door that swings with the travel from that side; or
tection rating.
Exception to (b): Sleeping room areas in detention and correc-
Exception No. 1: Where bridges have solid sides at least 6 ft (183
tional occupancies shall be exempt from the sign requirement.
cm) in height, such protection of wall openings shall not be re-
(c) They are of any other approved arrangement provided that quired.
doors always swing with any possible egress travel.
Exception No. 2: Existing bridges and balconies where approved
Exception No. 1: Horizontal exit door swing as provided in by the authority having jurisdiction.
Chapters 13 and 15.
5-2.5 Ramps.
Exception No. 2: Horizontal exit doors in corridors no greater
5-2.5.1 General. Every ramp used as a component in a means of
than 6 ft (183 cm) wide in existing buildings.
egress shall conform to the general requirements of Section 5-1 and
5-2.4.3.7* Doors in horizontal exits shall be designed and in- to the special requirements of this subsection.
stalled to minimize air leakage. 5-2.5.2 Dimensional Criteria. Ramps shall be in accordance
5-2.4.3.8* All fire doors in horizontal exits shall be self-closing with Table 5-2.5.2.
or automatic-closing in accordance with 5-2.1.8. Horizontal exit
doors located across a corridor shall be automatic-closing in accor- Table 5-2.5.2 New Ramps
dance with 5-2.1.8.
Exception: Where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, Minimum width clear of all 44 in. (112 cm)
obstructions, except
existing doors in horizontal exits shall be permitted to be self-clos- projections not more than
ing. 31/2 in. (8.9 cm) at or below
handrail height on each side
5-2.4.4 Bridges and Balconies.
Maximum slope 1 in 12 for > 6 in. (>15.2 cm) rise
5-2.4.4.1 Each bridge or balcony utilized in conjunction with
1 in 10 for > 3 in. (> 7.6 cm) and ≤ 6
horizontal exits shall have guards and handrails in conformity with in. (≤ 15.2 cm) rise
the requirements of 5-2.2.4. 1 in 8 for ≤ 3 in. (≤ 7.6 cm) rise
5-2.4.4.2 Every bridge or balcony shall be at least as wide as the Maximum cross slope 1 in 48
door leading to it and at least 44 in. (112 cm) wide for new con-
struction. Maximum rise for a single ramp run 30 in. (76 cm)

5-2.4.4.3 Where the bridge or balcony serves as a horizontal exit

in one direction, the door shall be required to swing only in the di- Exception No. 1: Aisle ramps as permitted in Chapters 8 and 9.
rection of egress travel. Exception No. 2: Existing ramps shall be permitted to remain in
Exception: Horizontal exit door swing as provided in Chapters use or be rebuilt provided they meet the requirements shown in the
13 and 15. table for existing ramps.

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Existing Ramps 5-2.5.5 Enclosure and Protection of Ramps. Ramps in a re-

quired means of egress shall be enclosed or protected as a stair in
Class A Class B accordance with 5-2.2.5. The use of Exceptions No. 2 and 3 to 5-
2.2.6.4 shall be prohibited.
Minimum width 44 in. (122 cm) 30 in. (76 cm)
Maximum slope 1 in 10 1 in 8 5-2.5.6 Special Provisions for Outside Ramps.
Maximum height between landings 12 ft (3.7 m) 12 ft (3.7 m)
5-2.5.6.1 Floor Level. Balconies or landings to which doors
Exception No. 3: Existing Class B ramps with slopes not steeper lead shall be approximately level with the floor of the building.
than 1 in 6 shall be permitted to remain in use where approved by Exception: In existing buildings located in climates where balco-
the authority having jurisdiction. nies or landings are subject to accumulation of snow or ice, one
Exception No. 4: Existing ramps with slopes no steeper than 1 in step, not more than 8 in. (20.3 cm), shall be permitted below the
10 shall not be required to be provided with landings. level of the inside floor.

Exception No. 5: Industrial equipment access as provided in 5-2.5.6.2* Visual Protection. Outside ramps shall be arranged
Chapter 28. to avoid any impediments to their use by persons having a fear of
high places. For ramps more than three stories in height, any ar-
Exception No. 6: Ramps providing access to vehicles, vessels, rangement intended to meet this requirement shall be at least 4 ft
mobile structures, and aircraft shall not be required to comply with (122 cm) in height.
the maximum slope or maximum rise for a single ramp run. 5-2.5.6.3* Water Accumulation. Outside ramps and landings
5-2.5.3 Ramp Details. shall be designed to minimize water accumulation on their sur-
faces.
5-2.5.3.1 Construction.
5-2.6* Exit Passageways.
(a) All ramps serving as required means of egress shall be of
permanent fixed construction. 5-2.6.1* General. Exit passageways used as exit components
(b) A ramp used as a means of egress in a building more than shall conform to the general requirements of Section 5-1 and to the
three stories in height, or in a building of any height of noncom- special requirements of this subsection.
bustible or fire-resistive construction, shall be constructed of an 5-2.6.2 Width. The width of an exit passageway shall be ade-
assembly of noncombustible or limited-combustible material. The quate to accommodate the aggregate required capacity of all exits
ramp floor and landings shall be solid and without perforations. discharging through it.
5-2.5.3.2 Landings. Exception No. 1:* Where an exit passageway serves occupants of
(a) Ramps shall have landings at the top, bottom, and at doors the level of exit discharge as well as other stories, capacity shall
opening onto the ramp. The slope of the landing shall not be not be required to be aggregated.
steeper than 1 in 48. Every landing shall have a dimension mea-
sured in the direction of travel at least the width of the ramp. Exception No. 2: As permitted in Chapters 24 and 25, an exit
passageway in a covered mall building shall be permitted to ac-
Exception to (a): Landings shall be permitted to be not more than 4 commodate occupant loads independently from the covered mall
ft (122 cm) in the direction of travel provided the ramp has a straight and the tenant spaces. (See Exception to 24-2.2.7 and Exception to
run. 25-2.2.7.)
(b) Any changes in travel direction shall be made only at land- 5-2.6.3 Floor. The floor shall be solid and without perforations.
ings. Ramps and intermediate landings shall continue with no de-
crease in width along the direction of egress travel. 5-2.7 Escalators and Moving Walks. Escalators and moving
walks shall not constitute a part of the required means of egress.
Exception to (b): Existing ramps shall be permitted to change di-
rection without a landing. Exception: Previously approved escalators and moving walks in
existing buildings.
5-2.5.3.3 Slip Resistance. Ramps and landings shall have slip-
resistant surfaces. 5-2.8 Fire Escape Stairs.
5-2.5.3.4 Drop-Offs. Ramps and landings with drop-offs shall 5-2.8.1 General.
have curbs, walls, railings, or projecting surfaces that prevent peo-
ple from traveling off the edge of the ramp. Curbs or barriers shall 5-2.8.1.1 Fire escape stairs shall comply with the provisions of 5-
be at least 4 in. (10.1 cm) in height. 2.8.
5-2.5.4 Guards and Handrails. Guards complying with 5-2.2.4 Exception: Existing noncomplying fire escape stairs shall be per-
shall be provided for ramps. Handrails complying with 5-2.2.4 mitted where approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
shall be provided along both sides of a ramp segment steeper than 1
in 20. The height of handrails and guards shall be measured verti- 5-2.8.1.2 Fire escape stairs shall not constitute any of the re-
cally to the top of the guard or rail from the walking surface adja- quired means of egress.
cent thereto.
Exception No. 1: Fire escape stairs shall be permitted on existing
Exception: Guards and handrails provided for ramped aisles in buildings as permitted in Chapters 8 through 32 but shall not con-
accordance with Chapters 8 and 9. stitute more than 50 percent of the required means of egress.

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Exception No. 2: New fire escape stairs shall be permitted to be Table 5-2.8.4(b) Replacement Fire Escape Stairs
erected on existing buildings only where the authority having juris-
diction has determined that outside stairs are impractical (see 5- Serving More Than Serving 10 or
2.2). New fire escape stairs shall not incorporate ladders or access 10 Occupants Fewer Occupants
windows, regardless of occupancy classification or occupant load Minimum widths 22 in. (55.9 cm) clear Same
served. between rails

5-2.8.1.3 Fire escape stairs of the return platform-type with su- Minimum horizontal 22 in. (55.9 cm) Same
perimposed runs or the straight run-type with a platform that con- dimension of any landing
or platform
tinues in the same direction shall be permitted. Either type shall be
permitted to be parallel to or at right angles to buildings. Either Maximum riser height 9 in. (22.9 cm) Same
type shall be permitted to be attached to buildings or erected inde-
Minimum tread, 10 in. (25.4 cm) Same
pendently of buildings and connected by walkways.
exclusive of nosing
5-2.8.2 Protection of Openings. Fire escape stairs shall be ex-
Tread construction Solid, 1/2-in. Same
posed to the smallest possible number of window and door open- (1.3-cm) dia.
ings. Each opening shall be protected with approved fire door or perforations
fire window assemblies where the opening or any portion of the permitted
opening is located as follows.
Winders None Permitted subject to
(a) Horizontally. If within 15 ft (4.5 m) of any balcony, plat- 5-2.2.2.5
form, or stairway constituting a component of the fire escape stair.
Spiral None Permitted subject to
(b) Below. If within three stories or 35 ft (10 m) of any bal- 5-2.2.2.4
cony, platform, walkway, or stairway constituting a component of
the fire escape stair or within two stories or 20 ft (6 m) of a plat- Risers None None
form or walkway leading from any story to the fire escape stair. Maximum height 12 ft (3.7 m) Same
(c) Above. If within 10 ft (3 m) of any balcony, platform, or between landings
walkway as measured vertically or of any stair tread surface as
Headroom, minimum 6 ft 8 in. (203 cm) Same
measured vertically.
(d) Top Story. Protection for wall openings shall not be re- Access to escape Door or casement Windows providing
quired where stairs do not lead to the roof. windows 24 in. × 6 ft a clear opening of at
6 in. (61 cm × 198 least 20 in. (50.8
(e) Court. Any wall facing a court served by a fire escape stair cm) or double hung cm) in width, 24 in.
where the least dimension of the court is not greater than one third windows 30 in. × 36 (61 cm) in height,
of the height to the uppermost platform of the fire escape stair mea- in. (7 cm × 91 cm) and 5.7 sq ft (0.53
sured from the ground. clear opening sq m) in area
(f) Alcove. Any wall facing an alcove served by a fire escape Level of access opening Not over 12 in. (30.5 Same
stair where the width of the alcove is not greater than one third or cm) above floor;
the depth more than one fourth of the height to the uppermost plat- steps if higher
form of the fire escape stair measured from the ground. Discharge to ground Swinging stair Same
Exception: The provisions of 5-2.8.2 shall be permitted to be mod- section permitted if
approved by
ified by the authority having jurisdiction in consideration of auto- authority having
matic sprinkler protection, low hazard occupancy, or other special jurisdiction
conditions.
Capacity, number of 0.5 in. (1.3 cm) per 10
5-2.8.3 Access. persons person, if access by
door; 1.0 in. (2.5 cm)
5-2.8.3.1 Access to fire escape stairs shall be in accordance with per person if access
5-2.8.4 and 5-5.1.2. by climbing over
windowsill
Exception: Where permitted in the existing occupancy chapters
of this Code, access to fire escape stairs shall be permitted by way
of windows. Screening or storm windows shall be prohibited where
they restrict free access to the fire escape stair. Windows shall be
arranged and maintained so as to be easily opened.
5-2.8.3.2 Fire escape stairs shall extend to the roof in all cases windowsill level and no lower than 8 in. (20.3 cm) below the floor
where the roof is subject to occupancy or provides an area of safe level or 18 in. (45.7 cm) below the windowsill.
refuge. 5-2.8.4 Stair Details. Fire escape stairs shall comply with the
Exception: If the roof has a pitch of 1 to 6 or less, fire escape lad- requirements of Table 5-2.8.4(a) and subsequent sections. Replace-
ders in accordance with 5-2.9 or alternating tread devices in ac- ment of fire escape stairs shall comply with the requirements of Ta-
ble 5-2.8.4(b).
cordance with 5-2.11 shall be provided for access to the roof.
5-2.8.3.3 Access to a fire escape stair shall be directly to a bal-
cony, landing, or platform and shall be no higher than the floor or

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Table 5-2.8.4(a) Fire Escape Stairs Exception: Existing handrails on existing fire escape stairs shall
be permitted provided the height is not be more than 42 in. (107
Serving More Than Serving 10 or cm).
10 Occupants Fewer Occupants
5-2.8.5.2 Replacement fire escape stairs in occupancies serving
Minimum widths 22 in. (55.9 cm) clear 18 in. (45.7 cm) clear more than 10 occupants shall have visual enclosures to avoid any
between rails between rails
impediments to stair use by persons having a fear of high places.
Minimum horizontal 22 in. (55.9 cm) clear 18 in. (45.7 cm) clear For stairs more than three stories in height, any arrangement in-
dimension of any tended to meet this requirement shall be at least 42 in. (107 cm) in
landing or platform height.
Maximum riser 9 in. (22.9 cm) 12 in. (30.5 cm) 5-2.8.6 Materials and Strength.
height
5-2.8.6.1 Noncombustible materials shall be used for the con-
Minimum tread, 9 in. (22.9 cm) 6 in. (15.3 cm) struction of all components of fire escape stairs.
exclusive of nosing
5-2.8.6.2 The authority having jurisdiction shall be permitted to
Minimum nosing or 1 in. (2.5 cm) No requirement
projection
approve any existing fire escape stair that has been shown by load
test or other satisfactory evidence to have adequate strength.
Tread construction Solid 1/2-in. (1.3-cm) Flat metal bars on edge
diameter perforations or sq bars secured 5-2.8.7* Swinging Stairs.
permitted against turning, spaced
5-2.8.7.1 A single swinging stair section shall be permitted to ter-
11/4 in. (3.2 cm) max. on
centers minate fire escape stairs over sidewalks, alleys, or driveways where
it is impractical to make the termination with fire escape stairs.
Winders None Permitted subject to
capacity penalty 5-2.8.7.2 Swinging stair sections shall not be located over doors,
over the path of travel from any other exit, or in any locations
Risers None No requirement where there are likely to be obstructions.
Spiral None Permitted subject to 5-2.8.7.3 Width of swinging stair sections shall be at least that of
capacity penalty the fire escape stairs above.
Maximum height 12 ft (3.7 m) No requirement 5-2.8.7.4 Pitch of swinging stair sections shall be no steeper than
between landings
that of the fire escape stairs above.
Headroom, minimum 6 ft 8 in. (203 cm) Same
5-2.8.7.5 Guards and handrails, in accordance with 5-2.2.4, shall
Handrail height 42 in. (107 cm) Same be provided and shall be similar in height and construction to those
used with the fire escape stairs above. Guards and handrails shall
Access to escape Door or casement Windows providing a
windows 24 in. × 6 ft clear opening of at
be designed to prevent any possibility of injury to persons where
6 in. (61 cm × 198 least 20 in. (50.8 cm) stairs swing downward. Minimum clearance between moving sec-
cm) or double hung in width, 24 in. (61 tions and any other portion of the stair system where hands have
windows 30 in. × 36 cm) in height, and 5.7 the potential to be caught shall be 4 in. (10.2 cm).
in. (76 cm × 91 cm) sq ft (0.53 sq m) in
clear opening area 5-2.8.7.6 If the distance from the lowest platform to ground is at
least 12 ft (3.7 m), an intermediate balcony not more than 12 ft (3.7
Level of access Not over 12 in. (30.5 Same m) from the ground and at least 7 ft (2.1 m) in the clear underneath
opening cm) above floor; steps shall be provided, with width at least that of the stairs and length at
if higher least 4 ft (1.2 m).
Discharge to ground Swinging stair section Swinging stair, or
5-2.8.7.7 Swinging stairs shall be counterbalanced about a pivot,
permitted if approved ladder if approved by
by authority having authority having and cables shall not be used. A weight of 150 lb (68 kg) located one
jurisdiction jurisdiction step from the pivot shall not cause the stairs to swing downward,
and a weight of 150 lb (68 kg) located one quarter of the length of
Capacity, number of 0.5 in. (1.3 cm) per 10; if winders or ladder the swinging stairs from the pivot shall positively cause the stairs to
persons person, if access by from bottom balcony, swing down.
door; 1.0 in. (2.5 cm) 5; if both, 1
per person if access by 5-2.8.7.8 The pivot for swinging stairs shall be of a corrosion-re-
climbing over sistant assembly or have clearances to prevent sticking due to cor-
windowsill rosion.
5-2.8.7.9* Devices shall not be installed to lock a swinging stair
section in the up position.
5-2.8.8 Intervening Spaces.
5-2.8.8.1 Where approved by the authority having jurisdiction,
5-2.8.5 Guards, Handrails, and Visual Enclosures.
fire escape stairs shall be permitted to lead to an adjoining roof
5-2.8.5.1 All fire escape stairs shall have walls or guards and that is crossed before continuing downward travel. The direction
handrails on both sides in accordance with 5-2.2.4. of travel shall be clearly marked, and walkways with guards and
handrails complying with 5-2.2.4 shall be provided.

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5-2.8.8.2 Where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, (a) Access to unoccupied roof spaces as permitted in 5-2.8.3.2;
fire escape stairs shall be permitted to be used in combination with (b) A second means of egress from storage elevators as permit-
inside or outside stairs complying with 5-2.2, provided a continu- ted in Chapter 29;
ous safe path of travel is maintained.
(c) A means of egress from towers and elevated platforms
5-2.9 Fire Escape Ladders. around machinery or similar spaces subject to occupancy by no
more than three persons all capable of using the alternating tread
5-2.9.1 General. Fire escape ladders shall only be permitted if device; or
providing
(d) A secondary means of egress from boiler rooms or similar
(a) Access to unoccupied roof spaces as permitted in 5-2.8.3.2; spaces subject to occupancy by no more than three persons all ca-
or pable of using the alternating tread device.
(b) A second means of egress from storage elevators as permit- 5-2.11.2 Alternating tread devices shall comply with the
ted in Chapter 29; or following:
(c) A means of egress from towers and elevated platforms
around machinery or similar spaces subject to occupancy by no (a) Handrails provided on both sides of alternating tread de-
more than three persons all capable of using the ladder; or vices in accordance with 5-2.2.4.5; and
(d) A secondary means of egress from boiler rooms or similar (b) The clear width between handrails at least 17 in. (43.2 cm)
spaces subject to occupancy by no more than three persons all ca- and not more than 24 in. (61 cm); and
pable of using the ladder; or (c) Headroom at least 6 ft 8 in. (2 m); and
(e) Access to the ground from the lowest balcony or landing of (d) The angle of the device between 50 and 68 degrees to hori-
a fire escape stair for very small buildings as permitted in 5-2.8.4 zontal; and
where approved by the authority having jurisdiction. (e) The height of the riser not more than 9.5 in. (24.1 cm); and
5-2.9.2 Construction and Installation. (f) Treads having a minimum projected tread depth of 5.8 in.
(14.7 cm) measured in accordance with 5-2.2 with each tread pro-
5-2.9.2.1 Fire escape ladders shall comply with ANSI A14.3, viding 9.5 in. (24.1 cm) of depth including tread overlap; and
Safety Code for Fixed Ladders.
(g) A minimum distance of 6 in. (15.2 cm) provided between
Exception No. 1: Existing ladders complying with the edition of the stair handrail and any other object; and
this Code that was in effect when the ladders were installed shall (h) The initial tread of the stair beginning at the same elevation
be permitted where approved by the authority having jurisdiction. as the platform, landing, or floor surface; and
Exception No. 2: Fixed industrial stairs complying with ANSI (i) The alternating treads not laterally separated by more than 2
in. (5.0 cm); and
A1264.1, Safety Requirements for Workplace Floor and Wall Open-
ings, Stairs and Railing Systems, minimum requirements for fixed (j) The occupant load served not more than three.
stairs shall be permitted where fire escape ladders are permitted in 5-2.12 Areas of Refuge.
accordance with Chapter 28.
5-2.12.1 General. An area of refuge used as part of a required
5-2.9.2.2 Ladders installed with a pitch of not more than accessible means of egress in accordance with 5-5.4, or used as a
75 degrees shall be prohibited. part of any required means of egress, shall conform to
5-2.9.2.3 Combustible ladders shall be prohibited. (a) The general requirements of Section 5-1, and
5-2.9.3 Access. The lowest rung of any ladder shall not be more (b) The special requirements of 5-2.12.2 and 5-2.12.3.
than 12 in. (30.5 cm) above the level of the surface beneath it. Exception to (b): Areas of refuge consisting of stories of build-
5-2.10 Slide Escapes. ings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 7-7. (See 5-
5-2.10.1 General. 1.2.)
5-2.10.1.1 A slide escape shall be permitted as a component in a
5-2.12.2 Accessibility.
means of egress where permitted in Chapters 8 through 31.
5-2.10.1.2 Each slide escape shall be of an approved type. 5-2.12.2.1 Required portions of an area of refuge shall be acces-
sible from the space they serve by an accessible means of egress.
5-2.10.2 Capacity.
5-2.12.2.2 Required portions of an area of refuge shall have ac-
5-2.10.2.1 Slide escapes, where permitted as required means of cess to a public way, without requiring return to the building spaces
egress, shall be rated at a capacity of 60 persons. through which travel to the area of refuge occurred, via an exit or
an elevator.
5-2.10.2.2 Slide escapes shall not constitute more than
25 percent of the required egress capacity from any building or 5-2.12.2.3* Where the exit providing egress from an area of ref-
structure or any individual story thereof. uge to a public way, in accordance with 5-2.12.2.2, includes stairs,
the minimum clear width of landings and stair flights, measured
Exception: As permitted in Chapter 28.
between handrails and at all points below handrail height, shall be
5-2.11* Alternating Tread Devices. 48 in. (122 cm).
5-2.11.1 Alternating tread devices complying with 5-2.11.2 shall Exception No. 1: Areas of refuge created by horizontal exits in
be permitted if providing accordance with 5-2.4.

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Exception No. 2: For stairs where egress is in the descending di- 5-2.12.3.4* Each area of refuge shall be separated from the re-
rection, a minimum 37-in. (94-cm) clear width, measured at and mainder of the story by a barrier with at least a 1-hr fire resistance
below handrail height, shall be permitted if approved alternative rating, unless a greater rating is required in other provisions of this
measures are provided that do not require carrying occupied Code. Such barriers, and any openings in them, shall minimize air
wheelchairs on the stairs. leakage and retard the passage of smoke. Doors in such barriers
shall have at least a 20-min fire protection rating, unless a greater
Exception No. 3: Existing stairs and landings that provide a min- rating is required in other provisions of this Code, and shall be ei-
imum 37-in. (94-cm) clear width, measured at and below handrail ther self-closing or automatic-closing in accordance with the Excep-
height, shall be permitted. tion to 5-2.1.8. Ducts shall be permitted to penetrate such barriers,
unless prohibited in other provisions of this Code, and shall be pro-
Exception No. 4: A minimum 37-in. (94-cm) clear width, mea- vided with smoke-actuated dampers or other approved means to re-
sured at and below handrail height, shall be permitted in buildings sist the transfer of smoke into the area of refuge.
protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprin- Exception No. 1: Buildings protected throughout by an approved,
kler system in accordance with Section 7-7. supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
5-2.12.2.4* Where an elevator provides access from an area of Section 7-7.
refuge to a public way, in accordance with 5-2.12.2.2, the elevator Exception No. 2: Existing barriers with a minimum 30-min fire
shall be approved for fire fighter service as provided in Section 211 resistance rating shall be permitted.
of ASME/ANSI A17.1, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
The power supply shall be protected against interruption from fire 5-2.12.3.5 Each area of refuge shall be identified by a sign stat-
occurring within the building but outside the area of refuge. The el- ing: “AREA OF REFUGE” that conforms to the requirements of
evator shall be located in a shaft system meeting the requirements CABO/ANSI A117.1, American National Standard for Accessible
for smokeproof enclosures in accordance with 5-2.3. and Usable Buildings and Facilities, for such signage and displays
Exception No. 1: The smokeproof enclosure shall not be required the international symbol of accessibility. Signs also shall be located
at each door providing access to the area of refuge. Signs also shall
for areas of refuge that are more than 1000 sq ft (93 sq m) in size
be installed at all exits not providing an accessible means of egress,
and are created by a horizontal exit meeting the requirements of 5- as defined in 5-1.2, and where necessary to indicate clearly the di-
2.4. rection to an area of refuge. Signs shall be illuminated as required
for exit signs where exit sign illumination is required.
Exception No. 2: The smokeproof enclosure shall not be required
in a building that is protected throughout by an approved, super- 5-2.12.3.6 Tactile signage complying with CABO/ANSI A117.1,
vised automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Sec- American National Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings
tion 7-7. and Facilities, shall be located at each door to an area of refuge.

Exception No. 3: Elevators complying with 5-2.13. 5-2.13 Elevators.

5-2.12.2.5 The area of refuge shall be provided with a two-way 5-2.13.1* General. An elevator complying with the require-
communication system for communication between the area of ref- ments of Section 7-4 and this subsection shall be permitted to be
uge and a central control point. The door to the stair enclosure or the used as a second means of egress from towers as defined in 32-
elevator door and the associated portion of the area of refuge that 1.3.2, provided that
the stair enclosure door or elevator door serves shall be identified (a) The tower and any attached structure is protected through-
by signage. (See 5-2.12.3.5.) out by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in ac-
5-2.12.2.6* Instructions for summoning assistance, via the two- cordance with Section 7-7; and
way communication system, and written identification of the area (b) The tower is subject to occupancy by not more than 90 per-
of refuge location shall be posted adjacent to the two-way commu- sons; and
nication system. (c) Primary egress discharges directly to the outside; and,
5-2.12.3 Details. (d) There are no high hazard content areas in the tower or at-
5-2.12.3.1* Each area of refuge shall be sized to accommodate one tached structure; and
wheelchair space of 30 in. × 48 in. (76 cm × 122 cm) for each 200 oc- (e) 100 percent of the egress capacity shall be provided inde-
cupants or portion thereof, based on the occupant load served by the pendent of the elevators;
area of refuge. Such wheelchair spaces shall maintain the width of a (f) An evacuation plan shall be implemented specifically in-
means of egress to at least that required for the occupant load served, cluding the elevator. As a part of that plan, staff personnel shall be
and at least 36 in. (91 cm). trained in operation and procedures for elevator emergency use in
5-2.12.3.2* For any area of refuge no greater than 1000 sq ft (93 normal operating mode prior to fire fighter recall.
sq m) in size, it shall be demonstrated by calculation or test that 5-2.13.2 Elevator Evacuation System Capacity.
tenable conditions are maintained within the area of refuge for a
period of 15 min when the exposing space on the other side of the 5-2.13.2.1 The elevator car shall have a capacity of at least eight
separation creating the area of refuge is subjected to the maximum persons.
expected fire conditions.
5-2.13.2.2 The elevator lobby shall have a capacity of at least 50
5-2.12.3.3 Access to any designated wheelchair space in an area percent of the occupant load of the area served by the lobby. The
of refuge shall not be through more than one adjoining wheelchair capacity shall be calculated by using 3 sq ft (0.28 sq m) per person
space. and shall also include one wheelchair space of 30 in. × 48 in. (76

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cm × 122 cm) for each 50 persons, or fraction thereof of the total oc- culations shall be made applying the gross area figure to the
cupant load served by that lobby. gross area of the portion of the building devoted to the use for
which the gross area figure is specified and applying the net area
5-2.13.3 Elevator Lobby. On every floor served by the elevator
figure to the net area of the specific use for which the net area
there shall be an elevator lobby. Barriers forming the elevator lobby
figure is specified.
shall have a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hr and shall be ar-
ranged as a smoke barrier in accordance with Section 6-3. 5-3.1.3 The occupant load permitted in any building or portion
5-2.13.4 Elevator Lobby Doors. Elevator lobby doors shall thereof shall be permitted to be increased from that number estab-
have a fire protection rating of at least 1 hr and the maximum trans- lished for the given use in accordance with 5-3.1.2, where all other
mitted temperature end point shall not exceed 450°F (250°C) requirements of this Code are also met, based on such increased
above ambient at the end of 30 min of the fire exposure specified in number. The authority having jurisdiction shall be permitted to re-
6-2.3.2.1, and shall be self-closing doors or automatic-closing quire an approved aisle, seating, or fixed equipment diagram to
doors in accordance with 5-2.1.8. substantiate any increase in occupant load and shall be permitted to
require that such diagram be posted in an approved location.
5-2.13.5 Door Activation. The elevator lobby doors shall close
in response to a signal from a smoke detector located directly out- 5-3.1.4 Where exits serve more than one story, only the occupant
side the elevator lobby adjacent to or on each door opening. Closing load of each story considered individually need be used in comput-
of lobby doors in response to a signal from the building fire alarm ing the capacity of the exits at that story, provided required egress
system shall be permitted. Closing of one elevator lobby door by capacity of the exit shall not be decreased in the direction of egress
means of smoke detector or a signal from the building fire alarm sys- travel.
tem shall result in closing of all elevator lobby doors serving that el- 5-3.1.5 Where means of egress from stories above and below
evator evacuation system. converge at an intermediate story, the capacity of the means of
5-2.13.6* Water Protection. Building elements shall be used to egress from the point of convergence shall be at least the sum of the
restrict water exposure of elevator equipment. two.
5-2.13.7* Power and Control Wiring. Elevator equipment, el- 5-3.1.6 Where any required egress capacity from a balcony or
evator communications, elevator machine room cooling and eleva- mezzanine passes through the room below, that required capacity
tor controller cooling, shall be supplied by both normal and shall be added to the required egress capacity of the room in which
standby power. Wiring for power and control shall be located and it is located.
properly protected to ensure at least 1 hr of operation in the event 5-3.2* Measurement of Means of Egress. Width of means of
of a fire. egress shall be measured in the clear at the narrowest point of the
5-2.13.8* Communications. Two-way communication systems exit component under consideration.
shall be provided between elevator lobbies and a central control Exception: Projections not more than 31/2 in. (8.9 cm) on each
point and between elevator cars and a central control point. Com- side are permitted at and below handrail height.
munications wiring shall be protected to ensure at least 1 hr of op-
eration in the event of fire. 5-3.3 Egress Capacity.
5-2.13.9* Elevator Operation. Elevators shall be provided with 5-3.3.1 Egress capacity for approved components of means of
fire fighter service in accordance with ASME/ANSI A17.1, Safety egress shall be based on the following table:
Code for Elevators and Escalators.
5-2.13.10 Maintenance. Where an elevator lobby is served by Level Components
only one elevator car, the elevator evacuation system shall have a Stairways and Ramps
program of scheduled maintenance during times of building shut- (in. per person) (in. per person)
down or low building activity. Repairs shall be performed within [cm per person] [cm per person]
24 hr of breakdown.
Board and Care 0.4 [1.0] 0.2 [0.5]
5-2.13.11 Earthquake Protection. Elevators shall have the ca- Health Care
pability of orderly shut downs during earthquakes at locations Sprinklered 0.3 [0.8] 0.2 [0.5]
Health Care
where such shutdown is an option of ASME/ANSI A17.1, Safety
Nonsprinklered 0.6 [1.5] 0.5 [1.3]
Code for Elevators and Escalators. High Hazard Contents 0.7 [1.8] 0.4 [1.0]
5-2.13.12 Signage. (See 5-10.4.3.) All Others 0.3 [0.8] 0.2 [0.5]

SECTION 5-3 CAPACITY OF MEANS OF EGRESS 5-3.3.2 The required capacity of a corridor is the occupant load
utilizing the corridor for exit access divided by the required number
5-3.1 Occupant Load.
of exits to which the corridor connects, but shall be at least the re-
5-3.1.1 The total capacity of the means of egress for any story, quired capacity of the exit to which the corridor leads.
balcony, tier, or other occupied space shall be sufficient for the oc-
5-3.4 Minimum Width.
cupant load thereof.
5-3.4.1 The minimum width of any means of egress shall be that
5-3.1.2* The occupant load in any building or portion thereof required for a given egress component in Chapter 5 or Chapters 8
shall be at least the number determined by dividing the floor area through 31, and shall be at least 36 in. (91 cm).
assigned to that use by the occupant load factor in accordance
with Chapters 8 through 28 and Chapter 30 and 31. Where both Exception No. 1:* The minimum width of exit access formed by
gross and net area figures are given for the same occupancy, cal- furniture and movable partitions, serving not more than six people,

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and not more than 50 ft (15 m) in length, shall be at least 18 in. SECTION 5-5 ARRANGEMENT OF MEANS OF EGRESS
(45.7 cm) at and below 38 in. (96 cm) height or 28 in. (71 cm)
5-5.1 General.
above 38 in. (96 cm) height, provided the minimum 36 in. (91 cm)
for new and 28 in. (71 cm) for existing are provided without moving 5-5.1.1 Exits shall be located and exit access shall be arranged so
permanent walls. that exits are readily accessible at all times.
Exception No. 2: Doors as provided for in 5-2.1.2. 5-5.1.2* Where exits are not immediately accessible from an open
floor area, safe and continuous passageways, aisles, or corridors
Exception No. 3: In existing buildings, the minimum width shall leading directly to every exit shall be maintained and shall be ar-
be at least 28 in. (71 cm). ranged to provide access for each occupant to at least two exits by
Exception No. 4: Aisles and aisle accessways as provided in separate ways of travel. Exit access corridors shall provide access to
at least two approved exits without passing through any intervening
Chapters 8 and 9.
rooms other than corridors, lobbies, and other spaces permitted to
Exception No. 5: Industrial equipment access as provided in be open to the corridor.
Chapter 28. Exception No. 1: Where a single exit is permitted in Chapters 8
5-3.4.2 Where a single exit access leads to an exit, its capacity in through 31.
terms of width shall be at least equal to the required capacity of the
exit to which it leads. Where more than one exit access leads to an Exception No. 2: Where common paths of travel are permitted
exit, each shall have a width adequate for the number of persons it for an occupancy in Chapters 8 through 31, such common paths of
accommodates. travel shall be permitted but shall not be more than the limit speci-
fied.
SECTION 5-4 NUMBER OF MEANS OF EGRESS Exception No. 3: Existing corridors that require passage through
5-4.1 General. a room to access an exit shall be permitted to continue to be used,
5-4.1.1 The minimum number of means of egress from any bal- provided that
cony, mezzanine, story, or portion thereof shall be two. (a) Such arrangement is approved by the authority having juris-
Exception No. 1: Where a single means of egress is permitted in diction; and
Chapters 8 through 32. (b) The path of travel is marked in accordance with Section 5-
Exception No. 2: A mezzanine or balcony shall be permitted to 10; and
have a single means of egress provided the common path of travel (c) Doors to such rooms comply with 5-2.1; and
limitations of Chapters 8 through 31 are met. (d) Such arrangement is not prohibited by the occupancy chap-
5-4.1.2 The minimum number of separate means of egress from ter.
any story or portion thereof shall be as follows:
Exception No. 4: Corridors that are not required to be fire resis-
Occupant load more than 500 but not more than 1000 — 3 tance-rated shall be permitted to discharge into open floor plan ar-
Occupant load more than 1000 — 4 eas.
Exception: Existing buildings as permitted in Chapters 8 through 5-5.1.3 Where more than one exit is required from a building or
31. portion thereof, such exits shall be remotely located from each
5-4.1.3 Accessible means of egress, in accordance with 5-5.4, not other and shall be arranged and constructed to minimize the possi-
utilizing elevators shall be permitted to serve as any or all of the re- bility that more than one has the potential to be blocked by any one
quired minimum number of means of egress. fire or other emergency condition.
5-4.1.4 Only the occupant load of each story considered individ- 5-5.1.4* Where two exits or exit access doors are required, they
ually shall be required to be used in computing the number of shall be placed at a distance from one another equal to and at least
means of egress at that story, provided that the required number of one half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of
means of egress shall not be decreased in the direction of egress the building or area to be served, measured in a straight line be-
travel. tween the nearest edge of the exit doors or exit access doors. Where
exit enclosures are provided as the required exits and are intercon-
5-4.1.5 Doors other than the hoistway door and the elevator car nected by a corridor conforming to the requirements of 5-1.3.1, exit
door shall be prohibited at the point of access to an elevator car. separation shall be permitted to be measured along the line of travel
Exception: Doors that are readily openable from the car side within the corridor.
without a key, tool, special knowledge, or special effort. Where more than two exits or exit access doors are required, at
least two of the required exits or exit access doors shall be arranged
5-4.1.6 Elevator lobbies shall have access to at least one exit. to comply with the above. The other exits or exit access doors shall
Such exit access shall not require the use of a key, tool, special be located so that if one becomes blocked, the others shall be avail-
knowledge, or special effort. able.
Exception No. 1: In buildings protected throughout by an ap-
proved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accor-
dance with Section 7-7, the minimum separation distance between
two exits or exit access doors measured in accordance with 5-5.1.4

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shall be at least one third the length of the maximum overall diago- 5-5.3.3 Exterior exit access balconies shall be separated from the
nal dimension of the building or area to be served. interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required
for corridors.
Exception No. 2: In existing buildings, where more than one exit
or exit access door is required, such exits or exit access doors shall Exception No. 1: Where the exterior exit access balcony is served
be permitted to be remotely located in accordance with 5-5.1.3. by at least two remote stairs that are accessed without any occu-
pant needing to travel past an unprotected opening to reach one of
5-5.1.5* Interlocking or scissor stairs shall be permitted to be the stairs.
considered separate exits if enclosed in accordance with 5-1.3.2
and separated from each other by 2-hr fire resistance-rated non- Exception No. 2: Where dead ends on the exterior exit access do
combustible construction. There shall be no penetrations or com- not exceed 20 ft (6.1 m).
municating openings, whether protected or not, between the stair
enclosures. 5-5.3.4 A permanent, reasonably straight path of travel shall be
maintained throughout the required exterior exit access.
5-5.1.6* Exit access shall be arranged so that there are no dead
ends in corridors. 5-5.3.5 There shall be no obstructions of any kind that divide the
open space into sections appurtenant to individual rooms, apart-
Exception: Where dead ends are permitted in Chapters 8 through ments, or other subdivisions.
31, such dead ends shall be permitted but shall not be more than
5-5.3.6 Exterior exit access shall be arranged so that there are no
the limit specified. dead ends in excess of those provided in Chapter 8 through 32.
5-5.1.7 Exit access from rooms or spaces shall be permitted to be 5-5.3.7 Exterior exit access shall comply with the requirements
through adjoining or intervening rooms or areas, provided such ad- of the Code as to width and arrangement.
joining rooms are accessory to the area served. Foyers, lobbies, and
reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not be 5-5.3.8 An exterior exit access shall have solid, substantially
construed as intervening rooms. Exit access shall be arranged so level floors and shall have guards that are at least equivalent to
that it shall not be necessary to pass through any area identified un- those required in 5-2.2.4 on unenclosed sides more than 30 in. (76
der Protection from Hazards in Chapters 8 through 32. cm) above the floor or grade below.
5-5.2 Impediments to Egress. (See also 5-1.8.2 and 5-2.1.5.) 5-5.3.9 Where accumulation of snow or ice is likely because of
the climate, the exterior exit access shall be protected by a roof.
5-5.2.1 In no case shall access to an exit be through kitchens,
storerooms, restrooms, workrooms, closets, bedrooms or similar 5-5.3.10 The materials of construction shall be as permitted for
spaces, or other rooms subject to locking. the building served.
Exception No. 1: Exit access shall be permitted to pass through 5-5.4 Accessible Means of Egress.
rooms or spaces subject to locking as provided in Chapters 12, 13, 5-5.4.1 Areas accessible to people with severe mobility impair-
14, and 15. ment shall have at least two accessible means of egress (see defini-
tion of Accessible Means of Egress in 5-1.2). Access shall be
Exception No. 2: Exit access shall be permitted to pass through
provided to a minimum of one accessible area of refuge or one ac-
storerooms as provided in Chapters 24 and 25. cessible exit discharge within the allowable travel distance.
5-5.2.2* Exit access and exit doors shall be designed and ar- Exception No. 1: Existing buildings.
ranged to be clearly recognizable. Hangings or draperies shall not
be placed over exit doors or located to conceal or obscure any exit. Exception No. 2: Exit access travel along the accessible means of
Mirrors shall not be placed on exit doors. Mirrors shall not be egress shall be permitted to be common for the distances permitted
placed in or adjacent to any exit in such a manner as to confuse the as common paths of travel.
direction of exit.
Exception No. 3: A single accessible means of egress shall be per-
Exception: Curtains shall be permitted across means of egress mitted from buildings or areas of buildings permitted to have a sin-
openings in tent walls if gle exit.
(a) Distinctly marked in contrast to the tent wall so as to be rec- Exception No. 4: The authority having jurisdiction shall be per-
ognizable as means of egress, and mitted to allow a reduction in the number of accessible means of
(b) Installed across an opening that is at least 6 ft (1.8 m) in egress based on an analysis of the fire protection system, the physi-
width, and cal arrangement of the space, the facility operation, and determi-
nation that such means provide the most direct route from the
(c) Hung from slide rings or equivalent hardware so as to be
accessible area.
readily moved to the side to create an unobstructed opening in the
tent wall of the minimum width required of door openings. Exception No. 5: Health care occupancies protected throughout
by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in
5-5.3 Exterior Ways of Exit Access. accordance with Section 7-7.
5-5.3.1 Exit access shall be permitted to be by means of any exte-
5-5.4.2 If two accessible means of egress are required, the exits
rior balcony, porch, gallery, or roof that conforms to the require-
serving these paths shall be placed at a distance from one another
ments of this chapter.
not less than one half the length of the maximum overall diagonal
5-5.3.2 The long side of the balcony, porch, gallery, or similar dimension of the building or area to be served, measured in a
space shall be at least 50 percent open and shall be arranged to re- straight line between the nearest edge of the exit doors or exit ac-
strict the accumulation of smoke. cess doors. Where exit enclosures are provided as the required exits

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and are interconnected by a corridor conforming to the require- SECTION 5-7 DISCHARGE FROM EXITS
ments of 5-1.3.1, exit separation shall be permitted to be measured
along the line of travel within the corridor. 5-7.1* All exits shall terminate directly at a public way or at an
exterior exit discharge. Yards, courts, open spaces, or other por-
Exception No. 1: Buildings protected throughout by an approved, tions of the exit discharge shall be of required width and size to
supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section provide all occupants with a safe access to a public way.
7-7.
Exception No. 1: Interior exit discharge as permitted in 5-7.2.
Exception No. 2: Where the physical arrangement of means of
Exception No. 2: Rooftop exit discharge as permitted in 5-7.6.
egress prevents the possibility that access to both accessible means
of egress will be blocked by any one fire or other emergency condi- Exception No. 3: Means of egress shall be permitted to terminate
tion as approved by the authority having jurisdiction. in an exterior area of refuge as provided in Chapters 14 and 15.
5-5.4.3 Each required accessible means of egress shall be contin- 5-7.2 Not more than 50 percent of the required number of exits,
uous from each accessible occupied area to a public way or area of and not more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity, shall
refuge in accordance with 5-2.12.2.2. be permitted to discharge through areas on the level of exit dis-
charge, provided:
5-5.4.4 Where an exit stair is used in an accessible means of
egress, it shall comply with 5-2.12.2.3 and shall either incorporate Exception: One hundred percent of the exits shall be permitted to
an accessible area of refuge within an enlarged story-level landing discharge through areas on the level of exit discharge as provided
or shall be accessed from an accessible area of refuge. in Chapters 14 and 15.

5-5.4.5 To be considered part of an accessible means of egress, (a) Such discharge leads to a free and unobstructed way to the
exterior of the building, and such way is readily visible and identi-
an elevator shall be in accordance with 5-2.12.2.4
fiable from the point of discharge from the exit; and
(b) The level of discharge is protected throughout by an ap-
5-5.4.6 A smoke barrier, in accordance with Section 6-3, that ad-
proved, automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
ditionally has a minimum 1-hr fire resistance rating, and a horizon-
Section 7-7, or the portion of the level of discharge used for this
tal exit, in accordance with 5-2.4, to be considered part of an
purpose is protected by an approved, automatic sprinkler system
accessible means of egress, shall discharge to an accessible area of
installed in accordance with Section 7-7 and separated from the
refuge in accordance with 5-2.12.
nonsprinklered portion of the floor by a fire resistance rating meet-
5-5.4.7 Accessible stories that are four or more stories above or ing the requirements for the enclosure of exits (see 5-1.3.2.1); and
below a story of exit discharge shall have at least one elevator com-
plying with 5-5.4.5. Exception to (b): If the discharge area is a vestibule or foyer
meeting all of the following:
SECTION 5-6 MEASUREMENT 1. The depth from the exterior of the building shall not be more
OF TRAVEL DISTANCE TO EXITS
than 10 ft (3 m) and the length shall not be more than 30 ft (9.1 m),
5-6.1* The travel distance in any occupied space to at least one and
exit, measured in accordance with the following requirements, 2. The foyer shall be separated from the remainder of the level
shall not be more than the limits specified in this Code (see 5-6.4).
of discharge by construction providing protection at least the
5-6.2* The travel distance to an exit shall be measured on the equivalent of wired glass in steel frames, and
floor or other walking surface along the centerline of the natural
3. The foyer serves only as means of egress and includes an exit
path of travel starting from the most remote point subject to occu-
pancy, curving around any corners or obstructions with a 1-ft (0.3- directly to the outside.
m) clearance therefrom, and ending at the center of the doorway or (c) The entire area on the level of discharge shall be separated
other point at which the exit begins. Where measurement includes from areas below by construction having a fire resistance rating at
stairs, the measurement shall be taken in the plane of the tread nos- least that required for the exit enclosure.
ing.
Exception to (c): Levels below the level of discharge shall be per-
Exception: Travel distance measurement shall be permitted to
mitted to be open to the level of discharge in an atrium in accor-
terminate at a smoke barrier as provided in Chapter 15.
dance with 6-2.4.6.
5-6.3* Where open stairways or ramps are permitted as a path of
travel to required exits, the distance shall include the travel on the 5-7.3 The exit discharge shall be arranged and marked to make
stairway or ramp and the travel from the end of the stairway or clear the direction of egress to a public way. Stairs shall be ar-
ramp to an outside door or other exit in addition to the distance ranged so as to make clear the direction of egress to a public way.
traveled to reach the stairway or ramp. Stairs that continue beyond the level of exit discharge shall be in-
terrupted at the level of exit discharge by partitions, doors, or other
5-6.4 Travel distance limitations shall be as provided in Chapters effective means.
8 through 32 and for high hazard areas in accordance with Section
5-11. Exception: Stairs that continue one-half story beyond the level of
exit discharge shall not be required to be so interrupted where the
5-6.5 Where any part of an exterior exit is within 10 ft (3 m) hor- exit discharge is obvious.
izontal distance of any unprotected building opening, as permitted
in the Exceptions to 5-2.2.6.4 for outside stairs, the travel distance 5-7.4 Doors, stairs, ramps, corridors, exit passageways, bridges,
to the exit shall include the length of travel to ground level. balconies, escalators, moving walks, and other components of an

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exit discharge shall comply with the detailed requirements of this to be used as an emergency source to the extent permitted under
chapter for such components. Section 5-9.
5-7.5 Signs. (See 5-2.2.5.4 and 5-2.2.5.5.) SECTION 5-9 EMERGENCY LIGHTING
5-7.6 Where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, exits 5-9.1 General.
shall be permitted to be accepted, provided that
5-9.1.1* Emergency lighting facilities for means of egress shall
(a) They discharge to the roof or other sections of the building be provided in accordance with this section for
or adjoining buildings, and
(b) The roof has a fire resistance rating at least the equivalent of (a) Every building or structure where required in Chapters 8
that required for the exit enclosure, and through 32, and
(c) There is a continuous and safe means of egress from the (b) At doors equipped with delayed egress locks, and
roof, and (c) The stair shaft and vestibule of smokeproof enclosures. A
(d) All other applicable requirements for life safety are main- standby generator that is installed for the smokeproof enclosure
tained. mechanical ventilation equipment shall be permitted to be used for
such stair shaft and vestibule power supply.
SECTION 5-8 ILLUMINATION OF MEANS OF EGRESS For the purposes of this requirement, exit access shall include
5-8.1 General. only designated stairs, aisles, corridors, ramps, escalators, and pas-
sageways leading to an exit. For the purposes of this requirement,
5-8.1.1* Illumination of means of egress shall be provided in ac- exit discharge shall include only designated stairs, ramps, aisles,
cordance with this section for every building and structure where
walkways, and escalators leading to a public way.
required in Chapters 8 through 32. For the purposes of this require-
ment, exit access shall include only designated stairs, aisles, corri- 5-9.1.2 Where maintenance of illumination depends upon chang-
dors, ramps, escalators, and passageways leading to an exit. For the ing from one energy source to another, there shall be no apprecia-
purposes of this requirement, exit discharge shall include only des- ble interruption of illumination during the changeover. Where
ignated stairs, aisles, corridors, ramps, escalators, walkways, and emergency lighting is provided by a prime mover-operated electric
exit passageways leading to a public way. generator, a delay of not more than 10 sec shall be permitted.
5-8.1.2 Illumination of means of egress shall be continuous dur- 5-9.2 Performance of System.
ing the time that the conditions of occupancy require that the 5-9.2.1* Emergency illumination shall be provided for a period
means of egress be available for use. Artificial lighting shall be em- of 11/2 hr in the event of failure of normal lighting. Emergency light-
ployed at such places and for such periods of time as required to ing facilities shall be arranged to provide initial illumination that is
maintain the illumination to the minimum criteria values herein at least an average of 1 ft-candle (10 lux) and a minimum at any
specified. point of 0.1 ft-candle (1 lux) measured along the path of egress at
Exception: Automatic, motion sensor-type lighting switches shall floor level. Illumination levels shall be permitted to decline to 0.6
be permitted within the means of egress, provided that switch con- ft-candle (6 lux) average and a minimum at any point of 0.06 ft-
trollers are equipped for fail-safe operation, illumination timers candle (0.6 lux) at the end of the emergency lighting time duration.
are set for a minimum 15 min duration, and the motion sensor is A maximum-to-minimum illumination uniformity ratio of 40 to 1
shall not be exceeded.
activated by any occupant movement in the area served by the
lighting units. 5-9.2.2* The emergency lighting system shall be arranged to pro-
vide the required illumination automatically in the event of any in-
5-8.1.3* The floors and other walking surfaces within an exit and terruption of normal lighting, such as any failure of public utility or
within the portions of the exit access and exit discharge designated other outside electrical power supply; opening of a circuit breaker
in 5-8.1.1 shall be illuminated to values of at least 1 ft-candle (10 or fuse; or any manual act(s), including accidental opening of a
lux) measured at the floor. switch controlling normal lighting facilities.
Exception: In assembly occupancies, the illumination of the 5-9.2.3 Emergency generators providing power to emergency
floors of exit access shall be at least 0.2 ft-candle (2 lux) during pe- lighting systems shall be installed, tested, and maintained in accor-
riods of performances or projections involving directed light. dance with NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby
Power Systems. Stored electrical energy systems where required in
5-8.1.4* Any required illumination shall be arranged so that the
this Code shall be installed and tested in accordance with NFPA
failure of any single lighting unit shall not leave any area in dark-
111, Standard on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby
ness.
Power Systems.
5-8.1.5 The equipment or units installed to meet the requirements
5-9.2.4* Battery-operated emergency lights shall use only reli-
of Section 5-10 shall be permitted also to serve the function of illu-
able types of rechargeable batteries provided with suitable facilities
mination of means of egress, provided that all requirements of Sec-
for maintaining them in properly charged condition. Batteries used
tion 5-8 for such illumination are met.
in such lights or units shall be approved for their intended use and
5-8.2 Sources of Illumination. shall comply with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code ® .
5-8.2.1* Illumination of means of egress shall be from a source 5-9.2.5 The emergency lighting system shall be either continu-
of reasonably ensured reliability. ously in operation or shall be capable of repeated automatic opera-
tion without manual intervention.
5-8.2.2 Battery-operated electric lights and other types of porta-
ble lamps or lanterns shall not be used for primary illumination of 5-9.3 Periodic Testing of Emergency Lighting Equipment.
means of egress. Battery-operated electric lights shall be permitted A functional test shall be conducted on every required battery-

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powered emergency lighting system at 30-day intervals for a mini- exit access and shall be essentially continuous, except as inter-
mum of 30 sec. An annual test shall be conducted for a 11/2-hr dura- rupted by doorways, hallways, corridors, or other such architec-
tion. Equipment shall be fully operational for the duration of the tural features. The system shall operate continuously or at any time
test. Written records of visual inspections and tests shall be kept by the building fire alarm system is activated. The activation, duration,
the owner for inspection by the authority having jurisdiction. and continuity of operation of the system shall be in accordance
with 5-9.2.
Exception: Self-testing/self-diagnostic, battery-operated emer-
gency lighting equipment that automatically performs a minimum 5-10.2* Size of Signs.
30-sec test and diagnostic routine at least once every 30 days and in-
5-10.2.1 Externally illuminated signs required by 5-10.1 and 5-
dicates failures by a status indicator shall be exempt from the 30-day
10.4.1.1 shall have the word “EXIT” or other appropriate wording
functional test, provided a visual inspection is performed at 30-day in plainly legible letters not less than 6 in. (15.2 cm) high with the
intervals. principal strokes of letters not less than 3/4 in. (1.9 cm) wide. The
word “EXIT” shall have letters of a width not less than 2 in. (5 cm),
SECTION 5-10 MARKING OF MEANS OF EGRESS except the letter “I,” and the minimum spacing between letters
shall be not less than 3/8 in. (1 cm). Signs larger than the minimum
5-10.1 General.
established in this paragraph shall have letter widths, strokes, and
5-10.1.1 Means of egress shall be marked in accordance with this spacing in proportion to their height.
section where required in Chapters 8 through 32.
Exception No. 1: Approved existing signs.
5-10.1.2* Exits shall be marked by an approved sign readily visi-
ble from any direction of exit access. Exception No. 2: Existing signs having the required wording in
plainly legible letters not less than 4 in. (10.2 cm) high.
Exception: Main exterior exit doors that obviously and clearly
are identifiable as exits. Exception No. 3: Marking required by 5-10.1.3 and 5-10.1.7.
5-10.1.3 At each door into an exit stair enclosure, tactile signage
stating and complying with CABO/ANSI A117.1, American Na- 5-10.2.2* Internally illuminated signs required by 5-10.1 and 5-
tional Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 10.4.1.1 shall have the word “EXIT” or other appropriate wording
shall be installed adjacent to the latch side of the door 60 in. (152 in letters legible from a distance of at least 100 ft (30 m) under all
cm) above the finished floor to the centerline of the sign. normal and emergency lighting conditions (30 ft-candle and 1 ft-
candle, respectively). Internally illuminated signs shall be listed in
Exception: Existing buildings, provided the occupancy classifi- accordance with UL 924, Standard for Safety Emergency Lighting
cation does not change. and Power Equipment.
5-10.1.4* Access to exits shall be marked by approved, readily Exception No. 1: Approved existing signs.
visible signs in all cases where the exit or way to reach it is not
readily apparent to the occupants. Sign placement shall be such Exception No. 2: Existing signs having the required wording in
that no point in the exit access corridor is more than 100 ft (30 m) legible letters not less than 4 in. (10.2 cm) high.
from the nearest sign. Exception No. 3: Marking required by 5-10.1.3 and 5-10.1.7.
Exception: Signs in exit access corridors in existing buildings
shall not be required to meet the 100-ft (30-m) distance require- 5-10.3* Illumination of Signs.
ments. 5-10.3.1* Every sign required by 5-10.1.2 or 5-10.1.4 shall be
suitably illuminated by a reliable light source. Externally and inter-
5-10.1.5* Where floor proximity exit signs are required in Chap- nally illuminated signs shall be legible in both the normal and
ters 8 through 32, exit signs shall be placed near the floor level in emergency lighting mode.
addition to those signs required for doors or corridors. These signs
shall be sized and illuminated in accordance with 5-10.2 and 5- 5-10.3.2* Externally illuminated signs shall be illuminated by
10.3. The bottom of the sign shall be at least 6 in. (15.2 cm) nor not less than 5 ft-candles (54 lux) and shall employ a contrast ratio
more than 8 in. (20.3 cm) above the floor. For exit doors, the sign of not less than 0.5.
shall be mounted on the door or adjacent to the door with the near-
est edge of the sign within 4 in. (10.2 cm) of the door frame. 5-10.3.3* The visibility of an internally illuminated sign shall be
the equivalent of an externally illuminated sign that complies with
5-10.1.6* Every sign required in Section 5-10 shall be located 5-10.3.2.
and of such size, distinctive color, and design as to be readily visi-
ble and shall provide contrast with decorations, interior finish, or Exception No. 1: Approved existing signs.
other signs. No decorations, furnishings, or equipment that impairs Exception No. 2:* Listed self-luminous or electroluminescent
visibility of an exit sign shall be permitted, nor shall there be any signs that provide evenly illuminated letters shall have a minimum
brightly illuminated sign (for other than exit purposes), display, or
object in or near the line of vision of the required exit sign of such luminance of 0.06 footlamberts (0.21 cd/sq m) as measured by a
a character as to detract attention from the exit sign. color-corrected photometer. New signs shall be located such that
the viewing distance along the path of egress is not more than the
5-10.1.7* Where floor proximity egress path marking is required sign’s marked rating.
in Chapters 8 through 32, a listed and approved floor proximity
egress path marking system that is internally illuminated shall be 5-10.3.4* Every sign required to be illuminated by 5-10.3 shall
installed within 8 in. (20.3 cm) of the floor. The system shall pro- be continuously illuminated as required under the provisions of
vide a visible delineation of the path of travel along the designated Section 5-8.

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Exception:* Illumination for signs shall be permitted to flash on 5-10.5 Testing and Maintenance.
and off upon activation of the fire alarm system. 5-10.5.1 Exit signs shall be visually inspected at maximum 30-
5-10.3.5 Where emergency lighting facilities are required by the day intervals for operation of the illumination sources.
applicable provisions of Chapters 8 through 32 for individual occu- 5-10.5.2 Exit signs connected to or provided with a battery-oper-
pancies, the exit signs shall be illuminated by the emergency light- ated emergency illumination source, where required in 5-10.3.5,
ing facilities. The level of illumination of the exit sign shall be at shall be tested and maintained in accordance with 5-9.3.
the levels provided in accordance with 5-10.3.2 or 5-10.3.3 for the
required emergency lighting time duration as specified in 5-9.2.1, SECTION 5-11 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR
but shall be permitted to decline to 60 percent of the illumination OCCUPANCIES WITH HIGH HAZARD CONTENTS
level at the end of the emergency lighting time duration.
Exception: Approved self-luminous signs. (See Section 4-2.)
5-11.1* In all cases where the contents are classified as high haz-
5-10.4 Specific Requirements. ard, exits of such types and numbers shall be provided and ar-
5-10.4.1 Directional Signs. ranged to permit all occupants to escape from the building or
structure or from the hazardous area thereof to the outside or to a
5-10.4.1.1* A sign complying with 5-10.2 reading “EXIT,” or a place of safety with a travel distance of not more than 75 ft (23 m),
similar designation with a directional indicator showing the direc- measured as required in 5-6.2.
tion of travel shall be placed in every location where the direction
of travel to reach the nearest exit is not apparent. Directional signs 5-11.2 Egress capacity for high hazard contents areas shall be
shall be listed. based on 0.7 in./person (1.8 cm/person) for stairs or 0.4 in./person
(1.0 cm/person) for level components and ramps in accordance
5-10.4.1.2* Directional Indicator. The directional indicator with 5-3.3.1.
shall be located outside of the EXIT legend, not less than 3/8 in. (1 cm)
from any letter, and shall be permitted to be integral to or separate 5-11.3 At least two means of egress shall be provided from each
from the sign body. The directional indicator shall be of a chevron building or hazardous area thereof.
type as shown in Figure 5-10.4.1.2 and shall be identifiable as a di- Exception: Rooms or spaces not more than 200 sq ft (18.6 sq m)
rectional indicator at a minimum distance of 40 ft (12.2 m) at 30 ft- and having an occupant load of not more than three persons and a
candle and 1 ft-candle average illumination on the floor representing travel distance to the room door of not more than 25 ft (7.6 m).
normal and emergency lighting levels respectively. The directional
indicators shall be located at the end of the sign for the direction in- 5-11.4 Means of egress shall be arranged so that there are no
dicated. dead ends in corridors.
Exception: Approved existing signs. Exception: Spaces meeting the requirements of the Exception to 5-
11.3.
5-11.5 Doors serving high hazard contents areas with occupant
loads of more than five shall be permitted to be provided with a
latch or lock only if it is panic hardware or fire exit hardware com-
plying with 5-2.1.7.

SECTION 5-12 MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT ROOMS,

BOILER ROOMS, AND FURNACE ROOMS

Figure 5-10.4.1.2 Chevron-type indicator. 5-12.1 Mechanical equipment rooms, boiler rooms, furnace
rooms, and similar spaces shall be arranged to limit common path
5-10.4.2* Special Signs. Any door, passage, or stairway that is of travel to not more than 50 ft (15 m).
neither an exit nor a way of exit access and that is located or ar- Exception: A common path of travel not more than 100 ft (30 m)
ranged so that it is likely to be mistaken for an exit shall be identi- shall be permitted:
fied by a sign reading “NO EXIT.” Such sign shall have the word
“NO” in letters 2 in. (5 cm) high with stroke width of 3/8 in. (1 cm) (a) In buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised
and the word “EXIT” in letters 1 in. (2.5 cm) high, with the word automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 7-7,
“EXIT” below the word “NO.” or
(b) In mechanical equipment rooms with no fuel-fired equipment,
Exception: Approved existing signs.
or
5-10.4.3 Elevator Signs. Elevators that are a part of a means of (c) In existing buildings.
egress (see 5-2.13.1) shall have the following signs, with minimum
letter height of 5/8 in. (1.6 cm), in every elevator lobby: 5-12.2 Stories used exclusively for mechanical equipment, fur-
naces, or boilers shall be permitted to have a single means of egress
(a)* Signs that indicate that the elevator can be used for egress where the travel distance to an exit on that story is not more than the
including any restrictions on use, and common path of travel limitations of 5-12.1.
(b)* Signs that indicate the operational status of elevators.

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1997 Edition