Width and Capacity (Egress)

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Omar Fernandez

November 06, 2024 02:03

In a code-related question, when you're asked to refer to the minimum dimension or standard, you should use the minimum dimensions specified in the initial statement of the code section or refer to the minimum dimensions outlined within any code exceptions.

For instance, when referring to stairway width as an egress component, the minimum width for stairways is typically 44 inches when the occupant load exceeds 50 people. However, an exception in the code allows for a minimum width of 36 inches if the occupant load is less than 50. In this case, would you consider the minimum width to be 44 inches or 36 inches?

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  Manuel Ignacio Granja Carbo November 06, 2024 17:50

  The minimum is 36". Usually in ARE exams, if they ask, they will give you the occupancy load, or the area to calculate the occupancy load.

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  Yulin Peng December 20, 2024 05:53 (Edited December 20, 2024 05:54)

  Seconding above, agree and think it best to pay close attention to the Question (as I increasingly find the answers themselves embedded in the questions' wording): what's the occupant load? Is it sprinklered or not?

  For less than 50 people, stairway should be a minimum of 36"; if more than 50 people, a minimum of 44".

  With this in mind, I would double check by multiplying the occupant load x .2 or .3 (as stipulated by the given) to make sure it doesn't exceed 36" / 44" and if so to go with the greater number for the final answer.

  For other components of means of egress, the min width would be the occupant load x .15.

  Hope this would suffice to solve this type of questions!

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