means of egress parts

Means of Egress

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The means of egress, as outlined in the International Building Code (IBC), are essential for ensuring safe and efficient evacuation from buildings during emergencies. These requirements stipulate not just the existence of exit paths but also their design, number, and dimensions, which vary across different buildings. A well-structured egress route is crucial for guiding occupants from any occupied area to the exterior swiftly and safely. Compliance with these building codes and safety standards is vital, as it safeguards lives during critical situations. This introductory guide explores the intricacies of egress pathways, their importance in emergency preparedness, and the regulations that govern their implementation.

What is means of egress?

A means of egress is a continuous, clear path from any occupied portion of a building, structure or space to a public way, such as an outdoor sidewalk. A means of egress consists of three parts: exit access, exit, and exit discharge.

Means of egress

A means of egress consists of three parts:

  1. The exit access – path within the building that leads to an exit
  2. The exit – doors to the outside, enclosed exit stairways, and horizontal exits
  3. The exit discharge – the route from the exit to the public way

Part 1: Exit Access

Exit access is defined as a corridor, hallway, or path in a room to an exit. When the IBC talks about “accessible,” it means that somebody in a wheelchair can use whatever thing they are referring to. Therefore, an “accessible space” means that a person in a wheelchair can enter and exit that space via an “accessible means of egress” (i.e. walkway, ramp, or elevator).

Accessible spaces must have two accessible means of egress, and they are typically required to be no less than 36″ wide.

For Non-accessible spaces, which are floors above or below the ground floor, the accessible pathway must lead to an exit stairway, elevator, or horizontal exit. These areas serve as an Area of Refuge where emergency responders will come to help people in wheelchairs.

The required number of means of egress is determined by occupant load:

Occupant LoadRequired Means of Egress
<5002
500-9993
>1,0004
*Exception: Buildings that have a low occupant load, such as mercantile spaces, only require one exit.

Part 2: Exit

The exit consists of an exit stairway or elevator with standby power. The exit is separated from other interior spaces by fire-resistant construction. Refer to the IBC stair and handrail specifications sheet and the refuge areas to ensure your means of egress are compliant.

Part 3: Exit Discharge

The exit discharge consists of either an accessible route, such as an ADA ramp or walkway, or a stair and platform with a refuge area. Can be inside the building such as the main lobby or outside to an egress court, courtyard, alley, or public way. A public way is defined as an area outside the building between the exit discharge and a public street with a minimum clearance height and width of at least 10 feet.


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