NFPA_101-_Chapter_7.pdf

Chapter 7 Means of Egress

7.1 General.

7.1.1 * Application. Means of egress for both new and existing buildings shall comply with this chapter. (See also 4.5.3.)

7.1.2 Definitions.

7.1.2.1 General. For definitions see Chapter 3 Definitions.

7.1.2.2 Special Definitions. A list of special terms used in this chapter follows:

(1) Accessible Area of Refuge. See 3.3.22.1.

(2) Accessible Means of Egress. See 3.3.172.1.

(3) Area of Refuge. See 3.3.22.

(4) Common Path of Travel. See 3.3.47.

(5) Electroluminescent. See 3.3.67.

(6) Elevator Evacuation System. See 3.3.68.

(7) Elevator Lobby. See 3.3.69.

(8) Elevator Lobby Door. See 3.3.62.1.

(9) Exit. See 3.3.83.

(10) Exit Access. See 3.3.84.

(11) Exit Discharge. See 3.3.85.

(12) Externally Illuminated. See 3.3.146.1.

(13) Fire Exit Hardware. See 3.3.135.1.

(14) Horizontal Exit. See 3.3.83.1.

(15) Internally Illuminated. See 3.3.146.2.

(16) Means of Egress. See 3.3.172.

(17) Panic Hardware. See 3.3.135.2.

(18) Photoluminescent. See 3.3.209.

(19) Ramp. See 3.3.221.

(20) Self-Luminous. See 3.3.241.

(21) Severe Mobility Impairment. See 3.3.246.

(22) Smokeproof Enclosure. See 3.3.257.

7.1.3 Separation of Means of Egress. See also Section 8.2.

7.1.3.1 Exit Access Corridors. Corridors used as exit access and serving an area having an occupant load exceeding 30 shall be separated from other parts of the building by walls having not less than a 1-hour fire resistance rating in accor- dance with Section 8.3, unless otherwise permitted by one of the following:

(1) This requirement shall not apply to existing buildings, pro- vided that the occupancy classification does not change.

(2) This requirement shall not apply where otherwise pro- vided in Chapters 11 through 43.

7.1.3.2 Exits.

7.1.3.2.1 Where this Code requires an exit to be separated from other parts of the building, the separating construction shall meet the requirements of Section 8.2 and the following:

(1)*The separation shall have a minimum 1-hour fire resis- tance rating where the exit connects three or fewer stories.

(2) The separation specified in 7.1.3.2.1(1), other than an existing separation, shall be supported by construction having not less than a 1-hour fire resistance rating.

(3)*The separation shall have a minimum 2-hour fire resis- tance rating where the exit connects four or more sto- ries, unless one of the following conditions exists:

(a) In existing non-high-rise buildings, existing exit stair enclosures shall have a minimum 1-hour fire resistance rating.

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2015 Edition Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

shall be the relative danger of the start and spread of fire, the danger of smoke or gases generated, and the danger of explo- sion or other occurrence potentially endangering the lives

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

MEANS OF EGRESS

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(b) In existing buildings protected throughout by an ap- proved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in ac- cordance with Section 9.7, existing exit stair enclo- sures shall have a minimum 1-hour fire resistance rating.

(c) The minimum 1-hour enclosures in accordance with 28.2.2.1.2, 29.2.2.1.2, 30.2.2.1.2, and 31.2.2.1.2 shall be permitted as an alternative to the require- ment of 7.1.3.2.1(3).

(4) Reserved.

(5) The minimum 2-hour fire resistance–rated separation required by 7.1.3.2.1(3) shall be constructed of an as- sembly of noncombustible or limited-combustible mate- rials and shall be supported by construction having a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating, unless otherwise permitted by 7.1.3.2.1(7).

(6)*Structural elements, or portions thereof, that support exit components and either penetrate into a fire resistance–rated assembly or are installed within a fire resistance–rated wall assembly shall be protected, as a minimum, to the fire resistance rating required by 7.1.3.2.1(1) or (3).

(7) In Type III, Type IV, and Type V construction, as defined in NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction (see 8.2.1.2), fire retardant–treated wood enclosed in non- combustible or limited-combustible materials shall be permitted.

(8) Openings in the separation shall be protected by fire door assemblies equipped with door closers complying with 7.2.1.8.

(9)*Openings in exit enclosures shall be limited to door as- semblies from normally occupied spaces and corridors and door assemblies for egress from mailto:licensing@nfpa.org the enclosure, un- less one of the following conditions exists:

(a) Vestibules that separate normally unoccupied spaces from an exit enclosure shall be permitted, provided the vestibule is separated from adjacent spaces by corridor walls and related opening protectives as re- quired for the occupancy involved but not less than a smoke partition in accordance with Section 8.4.

(b) In buildings of Type I or Type II construction, as defined in NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction, (see 8.2.1.2) fire protection– rated door assemblies to normally unoccupied building service equipment support areas as addressed in Section

7.13 shall be permitted, provided the space is sepa- rated from the exit enclosure by fire barriers as re- quired by 7.1.3.2.1(3).

(c) Openings in exit passageways in mall buildings as provided in Chapters 36 and 37 shall be permitted.

(d) In buildings of Type I or Type II construction, as defined in NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction, (see 8.2.1.2) existing fire protection– rated door assemblies to interstitial spaces shall be permitted, provided that such spaces meet all of the following criteria:

i. The space is used solely for distribution of pipes, ducts, and conduits.

ii. The space contains no storage.

iii. The space is separated from the exit enclosure in accordance with Section 8.3.

(e) Existing openings to mechanical equipment spaces protected by approved existing fire protection– rated door assemblies shall be permitted, provided that the following criteria are met:

i. The space is used solely for non-fuel-fired mechani- cal equipment.

ii. The space contains no storage of combustible mate- rials.

iii. The building is protected throughout by an ap- proved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in ac- cordance with Section 9.7.

(10) Penetrations into, and openings through, an exit enclo- sure assembly shall be limited to the following:

(a) Door assemblies permitted by 7.1.3.2.1(9) (b)*Electrical conduit serving the exit enclosure

(c) Required exit door openings

(d) Ductwork and equipment necessary for indepen- dent stair pressurization

(e) Water or steam piping necessary for the heating or cooling of the exit enclosure

(f) Sprinkler piping

(g) Standpipes

(h) Existing penetrations protected in accordance with 8.3.5

(i) Penetrations for fire alarm circuits, where the cir- cuits are installed in metal conduit and the penetra- tions are protected in accordance with 8.3.5

(11) Penetrations or communicating openings shall be pro- hibited between adjacent exit enclosures.

(12) Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the exit access side of the exit enclosure and shall be protected in accordance with 8.3.5.6.

7.1.3.2.2 An exit enclosure shall provide a continuous pro- tected path of travel to an exit discharge.

7.1.3.2.3 * 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 designated, as an area of refuge. (See also 7.2.2.5.3.)

7.1.4 Interior Finish in Exit Enclosures.

7.1.4.1 * Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Exit Enclosures. Interior wall and ceiling finish shall be in accordance with Section 10.2. In exit enclosures, interior wall and ceiling finish materials complying with Section 10.2 shall be Class A or Class B.

7.1.4.2 * Interior Floor Finish in Exit Enclosures. New interior floor finish in exit enclosures, including stair treads and risers, shall be not less than Class II in accordance with Section 10.2.

7.1.5* Headroom.

7.1.5.1 Means of egress shall be designed and maintained to provide headroom in accordance with other sections of this Code, and such headroom shall be not less than 7 ft 6 in. (2285 mm), with projections from the ceiling not less than 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) with a tolerance of −3⁄4 in. (−19 mm), above the fin- ished floor, unless otherwise specified by any of the following:

(1) In existing buildings, the ceiling height shall be not less than 7 ft (2135 mm) from the floor, with projections from the ceiling not less than 6 ft 8

in. (2030 mm) nominal above the floor.

(2) Headroom in industrial equipment access areas as pro- vided in 40.2.5.3 shall be permitted.

7.1.5.2 The minimum ceiling height shall be maintained for not less than two-thirds of the ceiling area of any room or space, provided that the ceiling height of the remaining ceil- ing area is not less than 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm).

7.1.5.3 Headroom on stairs shall be not less than 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) and shall be measured vertically above a plane

2015 Edition Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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parallel to, and tangent with, the most forward projection of the stair tread.

7.1.6 Walking Surfaces in the Means of Egress.

7.1.6.1 General.

7.1.6.1.1 Walking surfaces in the means of egress shall com- ply with 7.1.6.2 through 7.1.6.4.

7.1.6.1.2 Approved existing walking surfaces shall be permitted.

7.1.6.2 Changes in Elevation. Abrupt changes in elevation of walking surfaces shall not exceed 1⁄4 in. (6.3 mm). Changes in elevation exceeding 1⁄4 in.

(6.3 mm), but not exceeding 1⁄2 in. (13 mm), shall be beveled with a slope of 1 in 2. Changes in elevation exceeding 1⁄2 in. (13 mm) shall be considered a change in level and shall be subject to the requirements of 7.1.7.

7.1.6.3 Level.

7.1.6.3.1 Walking surfaces shall comply with all of the following:

(1) Walking surfaces shall be nominally level.

(2) The slope of a walking surface in the direction of travel shall not exceed 1 in 20, unless the ramp requirements of

7.2.5 are met.

(3) The slope perpendicular to the direction of travel shall not exceed 1 in 48.

7.1.6.3.2 Vehicle ramps in parking structures, as permitted in 42.8.2.2.6, and not on an accessible means of egress or other accessible element shall be exempt from the provisions of 7.1.6.3.1.

7.1.6.4* Slip Resistance. Walking surfaces in the means of egress shall be slip resistant under foreseeable conditions.

7.1.7 Changes in Level in Means of Egress.

7.1.7.1 Changes in level in means of egress shall be achieved by an approved means of egress where the elevation differ- ence exceeds 21 in. (535 mm).

7.1.7.2 * Changes in level in means of egress not in excess of 21 in. (535 mm) shall be achieved either by a ramp complying with the requirements of

7.2.5 or by a stair complying with the requirements of 7.2.2.

7.1.7.2.1 Where a ramp is used to meet the requirements of 7.1.7.2, the presence and location of ramped portions of walk- ways shall be readily apparent.

7.1.7.2.2 Where a stair is used to meet the requirements of 7.1.7.2, the tread depth of such stair shall be not less than 13 in. (330 mm).

7.1.7.2.3 Tread depth in industrial equipment access areas as provided in 40.2.5.3 shall be permitted.

7.1.7.2.4 The presence and location of each step shall be readily apparent.

7.1.8 * Guards. Guards in accordance with 7.2.2.4 shall be pro- vided at the open sides of means of egress that exceed 30 in. (760 mm) above the floor or the finished ground level below except where guards are specifically exempted by provisions of Chapters 11 through 43.

7.1.9 Impediments to Egress. Any device or alarm installed to restrict the improper use of a means of egress shall be de- signed and installed so that it cannot, even in case of failure, impede or prevent emergency use of such means of egress, unless otherwise provided in 7.2.1.6 and Chapters 18, 19, 22, and 23.

7.1.10 Means of Egress Reliability.

7.1.10.1 * Maintenance. Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free of all obstructions or impediments to full in- stant use in the case of fire or other emergency.

7.1.10.2 Furnishings and Decorations in Means of Egress.

7.1.10.2.1 No furnishings, decorations, or other objects shall obstruct exits or their access thereto, egress therefrom, or vis- ibility thereof.

7.1.10.2.2 No obstruction by railings, barriers, or gates shall divide the means of egress into sections appurtenant to indi- vidual rooms, apartments, or other occupied spaces. Where the authority having jurisdiction finds the required path of travel to be obstructed by furniture or other movable objects, the authority shall be permitted to require that such objects be secured out of the way or shall be permitted to require that railings or other permanent barriers be installed to protect the path of travel against encroachment.

7.1.10.2.3 Mirrors shall not be placed on exit door leaves. Mirrors shall not be placed in or adjacent to any exit in such a manner as to confuse the direction of egress.

7.1.11 Sprinkler System Installation. Where another provi- sion of this chapter requires an automatic sprinkler system, the sprinkler system shall be installed in accordance with the subparts of 9.7.1.1 permitted by the applicable occupancy chapters.

7.2 Means of Egress Components.

7.2.1 Door Openings.

7.2.1.1 General.

7.2.1.1.1 A door assembly in a means of egress shall conform to the general requirements of Section 7.1 and to the special requirements of 7.2.1.

7.2.1.1.2 Every door opening and every principal entrance that is required to serve as an exit shall be designed and con- structed so that the path of egress travel is obvious and direct. Windows that, because of their physical configuration or de- sign and the materials used in their construction, have the potential to be mistaken for door openings shall be made in- accessible to the occupants by barriers or railings.

7.2.1.1.3 Occupied Building.

7.2.1.1.3.1 For the purposes of Section 7.2, a building shall be considered to be occupied at any time it meets any of the following criteria:

(1) It is open for general occupancy.

(2) It is open to the public.

(3) It is occupied by more than 10 persons.

7.2.1.1.3.2 Where means of egress doors are locked in a building that is not considered occupied, occupants shall not be locked beyond their control in buildings or building spaces, except for lockups in accordance with 22.4.5 and 23.4.5, detention and correctional occupancies, and health care occupancies.

7.2.1.2 Door Leaf Width.

7.2.1.2.1* Measurement of Clear Width.

7.2.1.2.1.1 Swinging Door Assemblies. For swinging door as- semblies, clear width shall be measured as follows:

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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(1) The measurement shall be taken at the narrowest point in the door opening.

(2) The measurement shall be taken between the face of the

7.2.1.2.3.2 Door openings in means of egress shall be not less than 32 in. (810 mm) in clear width, except under any of the following conditions:

door leaf and the stop of the frame.

(3) For new swinging door assemblies, the measurement shall

(1) Where a pair of door leaves is provided, one door leaf shall provide not less than a 32 in. (810 mm) clear width be taken with the door leaf open 90 degrees.

(4) For any existing door assembly, the measurement shall be opening.

(2)*Exit access door assemblies serving a room not exceeding taken with the door leaf in the fully open position.

(5) Projections of not more than 4 in. (100 mm) into the door opening width on the hinge side shall not be considered reductions in clear width, provided that such projections are for purposes of accommodating panic hardware or fire exit hardware and are located not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.

(6) Projections exceeding 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) above the floor shall not be considered reductions in clear width.

7.2.1.2.1.2 Other than Swinging Door Assemblies. For other than swinging door assemblies, clear width shall be measured as follows:

(1) The measurement shall be taken at the narrowest point in the door opening.

(2) The measurement shall be taken as the door opening width when the door leaf is in the fully open position.

(3) Projections exceeding 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) above the floor shall not be considered reductions in clear width.

7.2.1.2.2* Measurement of Egress Capacity Width.

7.2.1.2.2.1 Swinging Door Assemblies. For swinging door as- semblies, egress capacity width shall be measured as follows:

(1) The measurement shall be taken at the narrowest point in the door opening.

(2) The measurement shall be taken between the face of the door leaf and the stop of the frame.

(3) For new swinging doors assemblies, the measurement shall be taken with the door leaf open 90 degrees.

(4) For any existing door assembly, the measurement shall be taken with the door leaf in the fully open position.

(5) Projections not more than 31⁄2 in. (90 mm) at each side of the door openings at a height of not more than 38 in. (965 mm) shall not be considered reductions in egress capacity width.

(6) Projections exceeding 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) above the floor shall not be considered reductions in egress capacity width.

7.2.1.2.2.2 Other than Swinging Door Assemblies. For other than swinging door assemblies, egress capacity width shall be measured as follows:

(1) The measurement shall be taken at the narrowest point in the door opening.

(2) The measurement shall be taken as the door opening width when the door leaf is in the fully open position.

(3) Projections not more than 31⁄2 in. (90 mm) at each side of the door openings at a height of not more than 38 in. (965 mm) shall not be considered reductions in egress capacity width.

(4) Projections exceeding 6 ft 8 in. (2030 mm) above the floor shall not be considered reductions in egress capacity width.

7.2.1.2.3 Minimum Door Leaf Width.

7.2.1.2.3.1 For purposes of determining minimum door opening width, the clear width in accordance with 7.2.1.2.1 shall be used, unless door leaf width is specified.

70 ft2 (6.5 m2) and not required to be accessible to per- sons with severe mobility impairments shall be not less than 24 in. (610 mm) in door leaf width.

(3)*Door openings serving a building or portion thereof not required to be accessible to persons with severe mobility impairments shall be permitted to be 28 in. (710 mm) in door leaf width.

(4) In existing buildings, the existing door leaf width shall be not less than 28 in. (710 mm).

(5) Door openings in detention and correctional occupan- cies, as otherwise provided in Chapters 22 and 23, shall not be required to comply with

7.2.1.2.3.

(6) Interior door openings in dwelling units as otherwise pro- vided in Chapter 24 shall not be required to comply with 7.2.1.2.3.

(7) A power-operated door leaf located within a two-leaf open- ing shall be exempt from the minimum 32 in. (810 mm) single-leaf requirement in accordance with 7.2.1.9.1.5.

(8) Revolving door assemblies, as provided in 7.2.1.10, shall be exempt from the minimum 32 in. (810 mm) width requirement.

(9)*Where a single door opening is provided for discharge from a stairway required to be a minimum of 56 in. (1420 mm) wide in accordance with

7.2.2.2.1.2(B), and such door assembly serves as the sole means of exit dis- charge from such stairway, the clear width of the door opening, measured in accordance with 7.2.1.2.2, shall be not less than two-thirds the required width of the stairway.

7.2.1.3 Floor Level.

7.2.1.3.1 The elevation of the floor surfaces on both sides of a door opening shall not vary by more than 1⁄2 in. (13 mm), unless otherwise permitted by 7.2.1.3.5, 7.2.1.3.6, or 7.2.1.3.7.

7.2.1.3.2 The elevation of the floor surfaces required by

7.2.1.3.1 shall be maintained on both sides of the door open- ings for a distance not less than the width of the widest leaf.

7.2.1.3.3 Thresholds at door openings shall not exceed 1⁄2 in. (13 mm) in height.

7.2.1.3.4 Raised thresholds and floor level changes in excess of 1⁄4 in. (6.3 mm) at door openings shall be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1 in 2.

7.2.1.3.5 In existing buildings, where the door opening dis- charges to the outside or to an exterior balcony or exterior exit access, the floor level outside the door opening shall be permitted to be one step lower than that of the inside, but shall be not more than 8 in. (205 mm) lower.

7.2.1.3.6 In existing buildings, a door assembly at the top of a stair shall be permitted to open directly at a stair, provided that the door leaf does not swing over the stair and that the door opening serves an area with an occupant load of fewer than 50 persons.

7.2.1.3.7 Where doors serve spaces that are not normally oc- cupied, the floor level shall be permitted to be lower than that

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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of the door opening but shall be not more than 8 in. (205 mm) lower.

7.2.1.4 Swing and Force to Open.

7.2.1.4.1* Swinging-Type Door Assembly Requirement. Any door assembly in a means of egress shall be of the side-hinged or pivoted-swinging type, and shall be installed to be capable of swinging from any position to the full required width of the opening in which it is installed, unless otherwise specified as follows:

(1) Door assemblies in dwelling units, as provided in Chap- ter 24, shall be permitted.

(2) Door assemblies in residential board and care occupancies, as provided in Chapters 32 and 33, shall be permitted.

(3) Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, horizontal- sliding or vertical-rolling security grilles or door assem- blies that are part of the required means of egress shall be permitted, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

(a) Such grilles or door assemblies shall remain secured in the fully open position during the period of occu- pancy by the general public.

(b) On or adjacent to the grille or door opening, there shall be a readily visible, durable sign in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high on a contrasting back- ground that reads as follows: THIS DOOR TO RE- MAIN OPEN WHEN THE SPACE IS OCCUPIED.

(c) Door leaves or grilles shall not be brought to the closed position when the space is occupied.

(d) Door leaves or grilles shall be operable from within the space without the use of any special knowledge or effort.

(e) Where two or more means of egress are required, not more than half of the means of egress shall be equipped with horizontal-sliding or vertical-rolling grilles or door assemblies.

(4) Horizontal-sliding door assemblies shall be permitted un- der any of the following conditions:

(a) Horizontal-sliding door assemblies in detention and correctional occupancies, as provided in Chapters 22 and 23, shall be permitted.

(b) Special-purpose horizontally sliding accordion or folding door assemblies complying with 7.2.1.14 shall be permitted.

(c) Unless prohibited by Chapters 11 through 43, horizontal-sliding door assemblies serving a room or area with an occupant load of fewer than 10 shall be permitted, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

i. The area served by the door assembly has no high hazard contents.

ii. The door assembly is readily operable from ei- ther side without special knowledge or effort.

iii. The force required to operate the door assem- bly in the direction of door leaf travel is not more than 30 lbf (133 N) to set the door leaf in motion and is not more than 15 lbf (67 N) to close the door assembly or open it to the mini- mum required width.

iv. The door assembly complies with any required fire protection rating, and, where rated, is self- closing or automatic-closing by means of smoke detection in accordance with 7.2.1.8 and is in- stalled in accordance with NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.

v. Corridor door assemblies required to be self- latching have a latch or other mechanism that ensures that the door leaf will not rebound into a partially open position if forcefully closed.

(d) Where private garages, business areas, industrial ar- eas, and storage areas with an occupant load not ex- ceeding 10 contain only low or ordinary hazard con- tents, door openings to such areas and private garages shall be permitted to be horizontal-sliding door assemblies.

(5) Where private garages, business areas, industrial areas, and storage areas with an occupant load not exceeding 10 contain only low or ordinary hazard contents, door open- ings to such areas and private garages shall be permitted to be vertical-rolling door assemblies.

(6) Revolving door assemblies complying with 7.2.1.10 shall be permitted.

(7) Existing fusible link–operated horizontal-sliding or vertical-rolling fire door assemblies shall be permitted to be used as provided in Chapters 39, 40, and 42.

7.2.1.4.2 Door Leaf Swing Direction. Door leaves required to be of the side-hinged or pivoted-swinging type shall swing in the direction of egress travel under any of the following conditions:

(1) Where serving a room or area with an occupant load of 50 or more, except under any of the following conditions:

(a) Door leaves in horizontal exits shall not be required to swing in the direction of egress travel where per- mitted by 7.2.4.3.8.1 or 7.2.4.3.8.2.

(b) Door leaves in smoke barriers shall not be required to swing in the direction of egress travel in existing health care occupancies, as provided in

Chapter 19.

(2) Where the door assembly is used in an exit enclosure, unless the door opening serves an individual living unit that opens directly into an exit enclosure

(3) Where the door opening serves a high hazard contents area

7.2.1.4.3* Door Leaf Encroachment.

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

(1) The door opening provides access to a stair in an existing building.

(2) The door opening meets the requirement of 7.2.1.4.3.2.

7.2.1.4.3.�7 When fully open, any door leaf in a means of egress shall not project more than 7 in. (180 mm) into the required width of an aisle, a corridor, a passageway, or a land- ing, unless the door leaf is equipped with an approved self- closing device and is not required by the provisions of 7.2.1.4.2 to swing in the direction of egress travel.

7.2.1.4.3.�7 Surface-mounted latch release hardware on the door leaf shall be exempt from being included in the maxi- mum 7 in. (180

mm) projection requirement of 7.2.1.4.3.1, provided that both of the following criteria are met:

(1) The hardware is mounted to the side of the door leaf that faces the aisle, corridor, passageway, or landing when the door leaf is in the open position.

(2) The hardware is mounted not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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7.2.1.4.4 Screen Door Assemblies and Storm Door Assem- blies. Screen door assemblies and storm door assemblies used in a means of egress shall be subject to the requirements for direction of swing that are applicable to other door assemblies used in a means of egress.

(1) The hardware for occupant release of the lock is affixed to the door leaf.

(2) The hardware has an obvious method of operation that is readily operated in the direction of egress.

(3) The hardware is capable of being operated with one hand

7.2.1.4.5 Door Leaf Operating Forces.

in the direction of egress.

(4) Operation of the hardware interrupts the power supply

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

(1) The opening forces for interior side-hinged or pivoted- swinging door leaves without closers shall not exceed 5 lbf (22 N).

(2) The opening forces for existing door leaves in existing buildings shall not exceed 50 lbf (222 N) applied to the latch stile.

(3) The opening forces for horizontal-sliding door leaves in detention and correctional occupancies shall be as pro- vided in Chapters 22 and 23.

(4) The opening forces for power-operated door leaves shall be as provided in 7.2.1.9.

7.2.1.4.5.2 The forces specified in 7.2.1.4.5 shall be applied to the latch stile.

7.2.1.5 Locks, Latches, and Alarm Devices.

7.2.1.5.1 Door leaves shall be arranged to be opened readily from the egress side whenever the building is occupied.

7.2.1.5.2 * The requirement of 7.2.1.5.1 shall not apply to door leaves of listed fire door assemblies after exposure to elevated temperature in accordance with the listing, based on labora- tory fire test procedures.

7.2.1.5.3 Locks, if provided, shall not require the use of a key, a tool, or special knowledge or effort for operation from the egress side.

7.2.1.5.4 The requirements of 7.2.1.5.1 and 7.2.1.5.3 shall not apply where otherwise provided in Chapters 18 through 23.

7.2.1.5.5 Key-Operated Locks.

7.2.1.5.5.1* Exterior door assemblies shall be permitted to have key-operated locks from the egress side, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) This alternative is permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 for the specific occupancy.

(2) A readily visible, durable sign in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high on a contrasting background that reads as follows is located on or adjacent to the door leaf: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED WHEN THE BUILD- ING IS OCCUPIED.

(3) The locking device is of a type that is readily distinguish- able as locked.

(4) A key is immediately available to any occupant inside the building when it is locked.

7.2.1.5.5.2 The alternative provisions of 7.2.1.5.5.1 shall be permitted to be revoked by the authority having jurisdiction for cause.

7.2.1.5.6 Electrically Controlled Egress Door Assemblies. Door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be electrically locked if equipped with approved, listed hard- ware, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

directly to the electric lock and unlocks the door assembly in the direction of egress.

(5)*Loss of power to the listed releasing hardware automati- cally unlocks the door assembly in the direction of egress.

(6) Hardware for new installations is listed in accordance with ANSI/UL 294, Standard for Access Control System Units.

7.2.1.5.7 Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, key operation shall be permitted, provided that the key cannot be removed when the door leaf is locked from the side from which egress is to be made.

7.2.1.5.8 * Every door assembly in a stair enclosure serving more than four stories, unless permitted by 7.2.1.5.8.2, shall meet one of the following conditions:

(1) Re-entry from the stair enclosure to the interior of the building shall be provided.

(2) An automatic release that is actuated with the initiation of the building fire alarm system shall be provided to unlock all stair enclosure door assemblies to allow re-entry.

(3) Selected re-entry shall be provided in accordance with 7.2.1.5.8.1.

7.2.1.5.8.1 Door assemblies on stair enclosures shall be per- mitted to be equipped with hardware that prevents re-entry into the interior of the building, provided that all of the fol- lowing criteria are met:

(1) There shall be not less than two levels where it is possible to leave the stair enclosure to access another exit.

(2) There shall be not more than four stories intervening be- tween stories where it is possible to leave the stair enclo- sure to access another exit.

(3) Re-entry shall be possible on the top story or next-to-top story served by the stair enclosure, and such story shall allow access to another exit.

(4) Door assemblies allowing re-entry shall be identified as such on the stair side of the door leaf.

(5) Door assemblies not allowing re-entry shall be provided with a sign on the stair side indicating the location of the nearest door opening, in each direction of travel, that allows re-entry or exit.

7.2.1.5.8.2 The requirements of 7.2.1.5.8, except as provided in 7.2.1.5.8.3, shall not apply to the following:

(1) Existing installations in buildings that are not high-rise buildings as permitted in Chapters 11 through 43

(2) Existing installations in high-rise buildings as permitted in Chapters 11 through 43 where the occupancy is within a building protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7

(3) Existing approved stairwell re-entry installations as per- mitted by Chapters 11 through 43

(4) Stair enclosures serving a building permitted to have a single exit in accordance with Chapters 11 through 43

(5) Stair enclosures in health care occupancies where other- wise provided in Chapter 18

(6) Stair enclosures in detention and correctional occupan- cies where otherwise provided in Chapter 22

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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7.2.1.5.8.3 When the provisions of 7.2.1.5.8.2 are used, signage on the stair door leaves shall be required as follows;

(1) Door assemblies allowing re-entry shall be identified as such on the stair side of the door leaf.

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

7.2.1.5.9 If a stair enclosure allows access to the roof of the building, the door assembly to the roof either shall be kept locked or shall allow re-entry from the roof.

7.2.1.5.10 * A latch or other fastening device on a door leaf shall be provided with a releasing device that has an obvious method of operation and that is readily operated under all lighting conditions.

7.2.1.5.10.1 The releasing mechanism for any latch shall be located as follows:

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

(2) Not more than 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor

7.2.1.5.10.�7 The releasing mechanism shall open the door leaf with not more than one releasing operation, unless other- wise specified in 7.2.1.5.10.3, 7.2.1.5.10.4, or 7.2.1.5.10.6.

7.2.1.5.10.�7 * Egress door assemblies from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided with devices, including automatic latching devices, that require not more than one additional releasing operation, provided that such device is operable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and is mounted at a height not exceeding 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor.

7.2.1.5.10.�7 Existing security devices permitted by 7.2.1.5.10.3 shall be permitted to have two additional releasing operations.

7.2.1.5.10.�7 Existing security devices permitted by 7.2.1.5.10.3, other than automatic latching devices, shall be located not more than 60 in.

(1525 mm) above the finished floor.

7.2.1.5.10.�7 Two releasing operations shall be permitted for existing hardware on a door leaf serving an area having an occupant load not exceeding three, provided that releasing does not require simultaneous operations.

7.2.1.5.11 Where pairs of door leaves are required in a means of egress, one of the following criteria shall be met:

(1) Each leaf of the pair shall be provided with a releasing device that does not depend on the release of one leaf before the other.

(2) Approved automatic flush bolts shall be used and ar- ranged such that both of the following criteria are met:

(a) The door leaf equipped with the automatic flush bolts shall have no doorknob or surface-mounted hardware.

(b) Unlatching of any leaf shall not require more than one operation.

7.2.1.5.12* Devices shall not be installed in connection with any door assembly on which panic hardware or fire exit hard- ware is required where such devices prevent or are intended to prevent the free use of the leaf for purposes of egress, unless otherwise provided in 7.2.1.6.

7.2.1.6* Special Locking Arrangements.

7.2.1.6.1 Delayed-Egress Locking Systems.

7.2.1.6.1.1 Approved, listed, delayed-egress locking systems shall be permitted to be installed on door assemblies serving low and ordinary hazard contents in buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic fire detec- tion system in accordance with Section 9.6 or an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Sec- tion 9.7, and where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, pro- vided that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) The door leaves shall unlock in the direction of egress upon actuation of one of the following:

(a) Approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7

(b) Not more than one heat detector of an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accor- dance with Section 9.6

(c) Not more than two smoke detectors of an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accor- dance with Section 9.6

(2) The door leaves shall unlock in the direction of egress upon loss of power controlling the lock or locking mechanism.

(3)*An irreversible process shall release the lock in the direc- tion of egress within 15 seconds, or 30 seconds where ap- proved by the authority having jurisdiction, upon applica- tion of a force to the release device required in 7.2.1.5.10 under all of the following conditions:

(a) The force shall not be required to exceed 15 lbf (67 N).

(b) The force shall not be required to be continuously applied for more than 3 seconds.

(c) The initiation of the release process shall activate an audible signal in the vicinity of the door opening.

(d) Once the lock has been released by the application of force to the releasing device, relocking shall be by manual means only.

(4)*A readily visible, durable sign in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high and not less than 1⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) in stroke width on a contrasting background shall be located on the door leaf adjacent to the release device in the direc- tion of egress, and shall read as follows:

(a) PUSH UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS, DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS, for doors that swing in the direction of egress travel

(b) PULL UNTIL ALARM SOUNDS, DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS, for doors that swing against the direction of egress travel

(5) The egress side of doors equipped with delayed-egress locks shall be provided with emergency lighting in accor- dance with Section 7.9.

7.2.1.6.1.2 The provisions of 7.2.1.6.2 for access-controlled egress door assemblies shall not apply to door assemblies with delayed-egress locking systems.

7.2.1.6.2* Access-Controlled Egress Door Assemblies. Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with elec- trical lock hardware that prevents egress, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) A sensor shall be provided on the egress side, arranged to unlock the door leaf in the direction of egress upon de- tection of an approaching occupant.

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

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(2) Door leaves shall automatically unlock in the direction of egress upon loss of power to the sensor or to the part of the access control system that locks the door leaves.

(3) Door locks shall be arranged to unlock in the direction of egress from a manual release device complying with all of the following criteria:

(a) The manual release device shall be located on the egress side, 40 in. to 48 in. (1015 mm to 1220 mm) vertically above the floor, and within 60

in. (1525 mm) of the secured door openings.

(b) The manual release device shall be readily accessible and clearly identified by a sign that reads as follows: PUSH TO EXIT.

(c) When operated, the manual release device shall re- sult in direct interruption of power to the lock — independent of the locking system electronics — and the lock shall remain unlocked for not less than 30 seconds.

(4) Activation of the building fire-protective signaling system, if provided, shall automatically unlock the door leaves in the direction of egress, and the door leaves shall remain unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system has been manually reset.

(5) The activation of manual fire alarm boxes that activate the building fire-protective signaling system specified in 7.2.1.6.2(4) shall not be required to unlock the door leaves.

(6) Activation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire de- tection system, if provided, shall automatically unlock the door leaves in the direction of egress, and the door leaves shall remain unlocked until the fire-protective signaling system has been manually reset.

(7) The egress side of access-controlled egress doors, other than existing access-controlled egress doors, shall be provided with emergency lighting in accordance with Section 7.9.

7.2.1.6.3 Elevator Lobby Exit Access Door Assemblies Lock- ing. Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, door assem- blies separating the elevator lobby from the exit access re- quired by 7.4.1.6.1 shall be permitted to be electrically locked, provided that all the following criteria are met:

(1) The lock is listed in accordance with ANSI/UL 294, Stan- dard for Access Control System Units.

(2) The building is protected throughout by a fire alarm system in accordance with Section 9.6.

(3) The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7.

(4) Waterflow in the sprinkler system required by 7.2.1.6.3(3) is arranged to initiate the building fire alarm system.

(5) The elevator lobby is protected by an approved, supervised smoke detection system in accordance with Section 9.6.

(6) Detection of smoke by the detection system required by 7.2.1.6.3(5) is arranged to initiate the building fire alarm system and notify building occupants.

(7) Initiation of the building fire alarm system by other than manual fire alarm boxes unlocks the elevator lobby door assembly.

(8) Loss of power to the elevator lobby electronic lock sys- tem unlocks the elevator lobby door assemblies.

(9) Once unlocked, the elevator lobby door assemblies re- main unlocked until the building fire alarm system has been manually reset.

(10) Where the elevator lobby door assemblies remain latched after being unlocked, latch-releasing hardware in accor- dance with 7.2.1.5.10 is affixed to the door leaves.

(11) A two-way communication system is provided for com- munication between the elevator lobby and a central control point that is constantly staffed.

(12) The central control point staff required by 7.2.1.6.3(11) is capable, trained, and authorized to provide emer- gency assistance.

(13) The provisions of 7.2.1.6.1 for delayed-egress locking sys- tems are not applied to the elevator lobby door assemblies. (14)*The provisions of 7.2.1.6.2 for access-controlled egress door assemblies are not applied to the elevator lobby door assemblies.

7.2.1.7 Panic Hardware and Fire Exit Hardware.

7.2.1.7.1 Where a door assembly is required to be equipped with panic or fire exit hardware, such hardware shall meet all of the following criteria:

(1) It shall consist of a cross bar or a push pad, the actuating portion of which extends across not less than one-half of the width of the door leaf.

(2) It shall be mounted as follows:

(a) New installations shall be not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.

(b) Existing installations shall be not less than 30 in. (760 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the floor.

(3) It shall be constructed so that a horizontal force not to exceed 15 lbf (66 N) actuates the cross bar or push pad and latches.

7.2.1.7.2 * Only approved fire exit hardware shall be used on fire protection-rated door assemblies. New panic hardware and new fire exit hardware shall comply with ANSI/UL 305, Standard for Safety Panic Hardware, and ANSI/BHMA A156.3, Exit Devices.

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

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

7.2.1.8 Self-Closing Devices.

7.2.1.8.1 * A door leaf normally required to be kept closed shall not be secured in the open position at any time and shall be self-closing or automatic-closing in accordance with 7.2.1.8.2, unless otherwise permitted by 7.2.1.8.3.

7.2.1.8.2 In any building of low or ordinary hazard contents, as defined in 6.2.2.2 and 6.2.2.3, or where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, door leaves shall be permitted to be automatic-closing, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) Upon release of the hold-open mechanism, the leaf be- comes self-closing.

(2) The release device is designed so that the leaf instantly releases manually and, upon release, becomes self- closing, or the leaf can be readily closed.

Copyright 2015 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Licensed, by agreement, for individual use and download on November 3, 2015 to Jesse.W.Schmidt. No other reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without written permission of NFPA. For inquires or to report unauthorized use, contact licensing@nfpa.org.

101–56 LIFE SAFETY CODE

(3) The automatic releasing mechanism or medium is acti- vated by the operation of approved smoke detectors in- stalled in accordance with the requirements for smoke detectors for door leaf release service in NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.

(4) Upon loss of power to the hold-open device, the hold- open mechanism is released and the door leaf becomes self-closing.

(5) The release by means of smoke detection of one door leaf in a stair enclosure results in closing all door leaves serv- ing that stair.

7.2.1.8.3 The elevator car doors, and the associated hoistway enclosure doors, at the floor level designated for recall in ac- cordance with the requirements of 9.4.3 shall be permitted to remain open during Phase I Emergency Recall Operation.

7.2.1.9 * Powered Door Leaf Operation.

7.2.1.9.1 * General. Where means of egress door leaves are operated by power upon the approach of a person or are pro- vided with power-assisted manual operation, the design shall be such that, in the event of power failure, the leaves open manually to allow egress travel or close when necessary to safe- guard the means of egress.

7.2.1.9.1.�7 The forces required to manually open the door leaves specified in 7.2.1.9.1 shall not exceed those required in 7.2.1.4.5, except that the force required to set the leaf in mo- tion shall not exceed 50 lbf (222 N).

7.2.1.9.1.�7 The door assembly shall be designed and installed so that, when a force is applied to the door leaf on the side from which egress is made, it shall be capable of swinging from any position to provide full use of the required width of the opening in which it is installed. (See 7.2.1.4.)

7.2.1.9.1.�7 A readily visible, durable sign in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high on a contrasting background that reads as follows shall be located on the egress side of each door opening:

IN EMERGENCY, PUSH TO OPEN

7.2.1.9.1.�7 Sliding, power-operated door assemblies in an exit access serving an occupant load of fewer than 50 that manually open in the direction of door leaf travel, with forces not exceeding those required in 7.2.1.4.5, shall not be re- quired to have the swing-out feature required by

7.2.1.9.1.2. The required sign shall be in letters not less than 1 in. (25 mm) high on a contrasting background and shall read as follows:

IN EMERGENCY, SLIDE TO OPEN

7.2.1.9.1.�7 * In the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a two-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32

in. (810 mm) single-leaf requirement of 7.2.1.2.3.2(1), provided that the clear width of the single leaf is not less than 30 in.