Width and Capacity (Egress)
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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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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Looking at the code section shown in the screenshot (1011.2), you've got it right that the standard minimum width for stairways is 44 inches (1118 mm) for higher occupant loads, with an exception allowing 36 inches (914 mm) when serving fewer than 50 occupants.
When answering this type of question on the ARE, the key is to pay close attention to what's being asked! The question fundamentally comes down to understanding "what's the minimum?" In this scenario, since the occupant load is less than 50, the correct minimum width would be 36 inches.
A tip for tackling these questions on the exam:
- Always check for exceptions that might apply to your specific scenario
- Focus on the occupant load as the primary determining factor
- Look for keywords in the question that hint at what they're testing (in this case, "minimum")
I always tell the ARE Bootcampers to imagine people trying to evacuate during an emergency. The code is based on actual human behavior and safety needs - the 44" width allows two people to pass side by side in a pinch, while 36" is more like single-file movement.
I just recorded a whole podcast diving deep into means of egress requirements that covers this exact topic! If you want to learn more about egress width calculations, travel distances, and how these requirements show up on the ARE.
https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/means-of-egress
- Layla
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