NFPA 101. (7.2.1.14).pdf

Report on First Revisions with Statement – June 2014 NFPA 101

101 FR222 SAF-MEA

(Entire Document) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: [For emulation in Terra, use the Global Replace feature] Throughout NFPA 101, but in other than Chapter 7, find occurrences where the words "horizontal-sliding doors" are connected to a reference to "7.2.1.14". For example, the phrase might read something like "horizontal-sliding doors complying with 7.2.1.4" or "horizontal-sliding doors, as permitted by 7.2.1.14". Replace those occurrences of the words "horizontal sliding doors" with the words "special purpose horizontally-sliding accordion or folding door assemblies".

Statement: The provisions of 7.2.1.14 are being revised to clarify that the special form of horizontal-sliding door addressed is of the accordion-folding type. The current lack of description misleads users who then try to use standard, solid-leaf sliding doors where the Code's intent is that the door be only of the special form described.

101 FR280 SAF-MEA

(7.1.2.2(13)) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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 3.3.170.1.

(3) Area of Refuge. See 3.3.22.

(4) Common Path of Travel. See 3.3.47.

(5) Electroluminescent. See 3.3.68.

(6) Elevator Evacuation System. See 3.3.69.

(7) Elevator Lobby. See 3.3.70.

(8) Elevator Lobby Door. See 3.3.62.1.

(9) Exit. See 3.3.81.

(10) Exit Access. See 3.3.82.

(11) Exit Discharge. See 3.3.83.

(12) Externally Illuminated. See 3.3.144.1.

(13) Fire Exit Hardware. A type of panic hardware that additionally provides fire protection where used as part of a fire door assembly.

(14) (13) Horizontal Exit. See 3.3.81.1.

(15) (14) Internally Illuminated. See 3.3.144.2.

(16) (15) Means of Egress. See 3.3.170.

(17) Panic Hardware. See 3.3.133.2.

(18) (16) Photoluminescent. See 3.3.207.

(19) (17) Ramp. See 3.3.219.

(20) (18) Self-Luminous. See 3.3.239.

(21) (19) Severe Mobility Impairment. See 3.3.244.

(22) (20) Smokeproof Enclosure. See 3.3.255.

Statement: The action taken by this First Revision is a stop gap measure as the MEA committee was not permitted to revise a definition in Chapter 3 as that chapter is under the purview of the FUN committee. The plan, at the Second Draft preparation meeting, is to get current definition 3.3.133.1 for Fire Exit Hardware revised as follows:

3.3.133.1 Fire Exit Hardware. A door-latching assembly incorporating an actuating member or bar that releases the latch bolt upon the application of a force in the direction of egress travel and that additionally provides fire protection where used as part of a fire door assembly. A type of panic hardware that additionally provides fire protection where used as part of a fire door assembly.

Once the corrected definition is slated to go into Chapter 3, the definition in 7.1.2.2(13) can be changed to read:

(13) Fire Exit Hardware. See 3.3.133.1.

A reference to the definition of Panic Hardware is being added as the term is used in the definition of Fire Exit

Hardware.

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101 FR202 SAF-MEA

(7.1.3.2.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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 resistance 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 resistance rating where the exit connects four or more stories, 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.

(b) In existing buildings protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7, existing exit stair enclosures 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 requirement 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 assembly of noncombustible or limited-combustible materials 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 noncombustible 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 assemblies from normally occupied spaces and corridors and door assemblies for egress from the enclosure, unless 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 required 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 separated from the exit enclosure by fire barriers as required 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) (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), 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) (c) 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 mechanical equipment.

ii. The space contains no storage of combustible materials.

iii. The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with

Section 9.7.

(10) Penetrations into, and openings through, an exit enclosure 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

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(c) Required exit door openings

(d) Ductwork and equipment necessary for independent 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 circuits are installed in metal conduit and the penetrations are protected in accordance with 8.3.5

(11) Penetrations or communicating openings shall be prohibited 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.

Statement: Relative to new 7.1.3.2.1(9)(a), the change allows normally unoccupied areas to be accessed directly from an exit enclosure, if the unoccupied space(s) and exit enclosure are separated by corridor walls as required for the occupancy and, at least, provides the protection offered by a smoke partition. There is often a need to provide access to unoccupied spaces (storage rooms, mechanical rooms) from a stair enclosure where corridors are not provided (e.g., basements or penthouses). The current code text only permits this for existing buildings under specific conditions. This should be allowed for new buildings as well, provided sufficient safeguards are provided.

Relative to new 7.1.3.2.1(9)(b), the normally unoccupied building service equipment support areas addressed in

Section 7.13 pose no greater a hazard than can be effectively protected by the fire rated construction required as a condition of using the new exemption.

101 FR209 SAF-MEA

(7.1.6.3) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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.

Statement: The provision proposed as 7.1.6.3.2 exists in NFPA 5000. The text is needed in NFPA 101 to avoid a conflict between Chapter 7 and Chapter 42.

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101 FR201 SAF-MEA

(7.1.6.4) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.1.6.4* Slip Resistance.

7.1.6.4.1 Walking surfaces shall be slip resistant under foreseeable conditions. The walking surface of each element

7.1.6.4.2 Walking surfaces in the means of egress shall be uniformly slip resistant along the natural path of travel.

Statement: As written, the text is unnecessarily wordy. In addition, the term uniformly implies that the same measurement of slip resistance (not a minimum) must be maintained throughout the means of egress. This is simply impossible, if for no other reason than because of changes in floor coverings. Tile and carpet are unlikely to have the same level of slip resistance, and since exit discharge is included, this provision requires that sidewalks and lawns possess the same measure of slip resistance as quarry tile, terrazzo, and other building floor coverings. And since many occupants will probably exit where they came in, they will often encounter entrance mats that are intended to provide a higher level of slip resistance than other surfaces - must their slip resistance be reduced to achieve uniformity with others? Even on a floor covering of a single material there is substantial variability in slip resistance due to contamination, uneven wear, and other factors. The revisions simplify the language and avoid the imposition of an unreasonable and undefined requirement.

101 FR210 SAF-MEA

(7.1.7.2) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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 walkways shall be readily apparent.

7.1.7.2.2 Where a stair is used meet the requirements of 7.1.7.2, the tread depth of such stair shall be not less than

13 in. (330 mm).

Statement: The proposed text exists in NFPA 5000. The provisions of 7.1.7.2.1 and 7.1.7.2.2 apply only where the ramp or stair involves the small elevation difference addressed in 7.1.7.2. Other ramps and stairs are not required to meet the provisions of 7.1.7.2.1 and 7.1.7.2.2.

101 FR211 SAF-MEA

(7.1.8) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.1.8* Guards. Guards in accordance with 7.2.2.4 shall be provided 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.

Statement: Other sections of the Code exempt guards under certain circumstances. For example, for the 2012 edition, the provisions for assembly occupancy stage areas were revised to provide a guard exemption. See 12/13.2.2.3.1(4). The proposed text is needed to avoid a conflict between chapters.

101 FR212 SAF-MEA

(7.1.10.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.1.10.1* General Maintenance. Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free of all obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency.

Statement: The term maintenance exists in NFPA 5000. It better describes the subject of the requirement of 7.1.10.1 than does the term general.

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101 FR255 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.2.3.2) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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:

(1) Where a pair of door leaves is provided, one door leaf shall provide not less than a 32 in. (810 mm) clear width opening.

(2)* (2) Exit access door assemblies serving a room not exceeding 70 ft2 (6.5 m2) and not required to be accessible to persons with severe mobility impairments shall be not less than 24 in. (610 mm) in door leaf width.

(3)* (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 occupancies, 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 provided 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 opening 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 discharge 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.

Statement: The asterisks are added to note that annex material is being added.

101 FR223 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.3.7) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.3.7 Where doors serve spaces that are not normally occupied, the floor level shall be permitted to be lower than that of the door opening.

Statement: In the case of rooms used specifically for building equipment such as mechanical rooms, electrical equipment rooms or elevator pits, there are times where a change in elevation of more than ½ inch is necessary especially if liquid containment is required. The proposed code change recognizes that there are instances when the change in elevation may need to be provided with more than ½ inch, including vertical distances up to that common with a step.

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101 FR224 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.4.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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 Chapter 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 assemblies 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 occupancy 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 background that reads as follows: THIS DOOR TO REMAIN OPEN WHEN THE

BUILDING 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 under 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) Horizontal-sliding 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 either side without special knowledge or effort.

iii. The force required to operate the door assembly 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 minimum 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 installed 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 areas, and storage areas with an occupant load not exceeding 10 contain only low or ordinary hazard contents, 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 openings 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.

Statement: The mandate that the door remain in the open position when the building is occupied has nothing to do with an individual space within the building that is equipped with such a door. The Business and Mercantile occupancy chapters permit these types of doors/grilles on a means of egress from a tenant space; and Assembly occupancies permit the use of such a door/grille on a means of egress from an assembly occupancy within a mall.

A credit union within an office building that has limited hours would not be allowed to close the door when the credit union is closed if the overall office building is occupied.

The change being made to 7.2.1.4.1(4)(b) is for correlation with changes being made to 7.2.1.14.

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101 FR258 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.5.5.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.5.5.1* 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 BUILDING IS

OCCUPIED.

(3) The locking device is of a type that is readily distinguishable as locked.

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

Statement: The asterisk is added to note the new annex text being added.

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101 FR225 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.6.1.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 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 detection system in accordance with Section 9.6 or an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7, and where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, provided 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 accordance with

Section 9.6

(c) Not more than two smoke detectors of an approved, supervised automatic fire detection system in accordance 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 direction of egress within 15 seconds, or 30 seconds where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, upon application 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 that reads as follows shall be located on the door leaf adjacent to the release device in the direction 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 accordance with Section 7.9.

Statement: The intent of the change is to acknowledge that UL lists delayed egress hardware that can be used on doors that swing in the opposite direction of egress, whereby pulling on the hardware engages the 15 or 30 second timer. As such, the subject signage requirements need to be revised to accommodate the installation of such hardware.

Although most delayed egress hardware is installed on doors that swing in the direction of egress, there is no language currently in this section that actually prohibits installing delayed egress hardware on doors that swing in the opposite direction. If the change were not made, the current language related to "pushing" might be incorrectly interpreted as prohibiting such use.

101 FR213 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.6.3(12)) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: (12) The central control point staff required by 7.2.1.6.3(12)(11) is capable, trained, and authorized to provide emergency assistance.

Statement: Editorial correction of incorrect reference.

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101 FR281 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.7.2) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.7.2* 7.2.1.7.2 Only approved panic hardware shall be used on door assemblies that are not fire-rated door assemblies. Only approved fire exit hardware shall be used on fire-rated 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.

Statement: Fire exit hardware should be permitted to be used on doors that are not fire protection rated. As the accompanying new annex text will explain - the presence of fire exit hardware on a door does not imply the door is required to be a fire protection-rated door.

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101 FR226 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.11) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.11 Turnstiles and Similar Devices.

7.2.1.11.1 Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction or are used to collect fares or admission charges shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, unless otherwise specified in 7.2.1.11.1.1 and 7.2.1.11.1.2 7.2.1.11.1.1, 7.2.1.11.1.2 and 7.2.1.11.1.3.

7.2.1.11.1.1 Approved turnstiles not exceeding 39 in. (990 mm) in height that turn freely in the direction of egress travel shall be permitted where revolving door assemblies are permitted in Chapters 11 through 43.

7.2.1.11.1.2 Where turnstiles are approved by the authority having jurisdiction and permitted in Chapters 11 through

43, each turnstile shall be credited for a capacity of 50 persons, provided that such turnstiles meet all of the following criteria:

(1) They freewheel in the egress direction when primary power is lost, and freewheel in the direction of egress travel upon manual release by an employee assigned in the area.

(2) They are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress width.

(3) They are not in excess of 39 in. (990 mm) in height and have a clear width of not less than 16½ in. (420 mm).

7.2.1.11.1.3* Security access turnstiles that impede travel in the direction of egress utilizing a physical barrier shall be permitted to be considered as a component of the means of egress, where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, provided that all the following criteria are met:

(1) The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with

Section 9.7.

(2) Each security access turnstile lane configuration has a minimum clear passage width of 22 in. (560 mm).

(3) Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of less than 32 in. (810 mm) shall be given an egress capacity of 50 persons.

(4) Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of 32 in. (810 mm) or more shall be given an egress capacity as calculated in accordance with Section 7.3.

(5) Each secured physical barrier shall automatically retract or swing to an unobstructed open position in the direction of egress, under each of the following conditions:

(a) Upon loss of power to the turnstile or any part of the access control system that secures the physical barrier

(b) Upon actuation of a readily accessible and clearly identified manual release device that results in direct interruption of power to each secured physical barrier, remains in the open position for not less than 30 seconds, and is positioned at one of the following locations:

i. The manual release device is located on the egress side of each security access turnstile lane

ii. The manual release device is located at an approved location where it can be activated by an employee assigned to the area.

(c) Upon activation of the building fire protective signaling system, if provided, and for which the following apply:

i. The physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire-protective signaling system is manually reset.

ii. The activation of manual fire alarm boxes that activate the building fire-protective signaling system is not required to meet the requirements specified in 7.2.1.11.1.3(5)(c).

(d) Upon actuation of the building automatic sprinkler or fire detection system, and for which the physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire-protective signaling system is manually reset.

7.2.1.11.2 Turnstiles exceeding 39 in. (990 mm) in height shall meet the requirements for revolving door assemblies in

7.2.1.10 or the requirements of 7.2.1.11.1.3 for security access turnstiles.

7.2.1.11.3 Turnstiles located in, or furnishing access to, required exits shall provide not less than 16½ in. (420 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 in. (990 mm) and at least 22 in. (560 mm) clear width at heights above 39 in.

(990 mm).- Statement: Manufacturers of turnstile devices have expanded into the security access control market and currently have products that have physical barrier leaves that restrict access into and out of buildings. These devices can vary in height and sophistication to address building security concerns that may not meet safety requirements related to the means of egress. Typically, these turnstile devices are located at building entrances and elevator lobbies.

The current requirements for turnstiles apply historically to the “three arm” waist high turnstiles for entertainment or transportation venues and do not apply to the new installations. Currently, the AHJ is left to evaluate these new modern turnstiles to determine compliance with the egress requirements in NFPA 101.

The intent of the revision is to provide guidance to on evaluating these new modern turnstiles. Turnstiles on the market

10Printed on 9/11/2012 can be as narrow as 22 inches. For turnstiles that are less than 32 inches, there are additional capacity issues that need to be considered. The fail safe provisions for overriding the turnstile access restrictions are derived from existing code provisions (e.g., delayed egress locks and forces to open doors).

101 FR228 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.14) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.14 Horizontal-Sliding Special Purpose Horizontally-Sliding Accordion or Folding Door Assemblies. Horizontal-sliding Special purpose horizontally-sliding accordion or folding door assemblies shall be permitted in means of egress, provided that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) The door leaf is readily operable from either side without special knowledge or effort.

(2) The force that, when applied to the operating device in the direction of egress, is required to operate the door leaf is not more than 15 lbf (67 N).

(3) The force required to operate the door leaf in the direction of travel is not more than 30 lbf (133 N) to set the leaf in motion and is not more than 15 lbf (67 N) to close the leaf or open it to the minimum required width.

(4) The door leaf is operable using a force of not more than 50 lbf (222 N) when a force of 250 lbf (1100 N) is applied perpendicularly to the leaf adjacent to the operating device, unless the door opening is an existing horizontal-sliding special purpose horizontally-sliding accordion or folding exit access door assembly serving an area with an occupant load of fewer than 50.

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

Statement: There is confusion in the industry regarding the application of 7.2.1.9 versus 7.2.1.14 and the two sections are incorrectly mixed during design, review, and commissioning. The provisions of 7.2.1.9 specifically apply to normally-closed power-operated sliding doors such as the typical aluminum storefront-style glass door. Paragraph

7.2.1.14 is the correct application for fire protection-rated door assemblies which are often normally-open, accordion-style which are set into a recessed area clear of the means of egress. There is no intent to change the technical aspects of this section, only to clarify the appropriate application.

11Printed on 9/11/2012

101 FR229 SAF-MEA

(7.2.1.15) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.1.15 Inspection of Door Openings.

7.2.1.15.1* Where required by Chapters 11 through 43, the following door assemblies shall be inspected and tested not less than annually in accordance with 7.2.1.15.2 through 7.2.1.15.8:

(1) Door leaves equipped with panic hardware or fire exit hardware in accordance with 7.2.1.7

(2) Door assemblies in exit enclosures

(3) Electrically controlled egress doors

(4) Door assemblies with special locking arrangements subject to 7.2.1.6

7.2.1.15.2 Fire-rated door assemblies shall be inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 80, Standard for Fire

Doors and Other Opening Protectives. Smoke door assemblies shall be inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 105, Standard for Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives.

7.2.1.15.2* 7.2.1.15.3 The inspection and testing interval for fire-rated and nonrated door assemblies shall be permitted to exceed 12 months under a written performance-based program in accordance with 5.2.2 of NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.

7.2.1.15.2.1 Goals established under a performance-based program shall provide assurance that the door assembly will perform its intended function.

7.2.1.15.2.2 Technical justification for inspection, testing, and maintenance intervals shall be documented.

7.2.1.15.2.3 The performance-based option shall include historical data.

7.2.1.15.3 7.2.1.15.4 A written record of the inspections and testing shall be signed and kept for inspection by the authority having jurisdiction.

7.2.1.15.4 7.2.1.15.5 Functional testing of door assemblies shall be performed by individuals who can demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the operating components of the type of door being subjected to testing.

7.2.1.15.5 7.2.1.15.6 Door assemblies shall be visually inspected from both sides of the opening to assess the overall condition of the assembly.

7.2.1.15.6 7.2.1.15.7 As a minimum, the following items shall be verified:

(1) Floor space on both sides of the openings is clear of obstructions, and door leaves open fully and close freely.

(2) Forces required to set door leaves in motion and move to the fully open position do not exceed the requirements in

7.2.1.4.5.

(3) Latching and locking devices comply with 7.2.1.5.

(4) Releasing hardware devices are installed in accordance with 7.2.1.5.10.1.

(5) Door leaves of paired openings are installed in accordance with 7.2.1.5.11.

(6) Door closers are adjusted properly to control the closing speed of door leaves in accordance with accessibility requirements.

(7) Projection of door leaves into the path of egress does not exceed the encroachment permitted by 7.2.1.4.3.

(8) Powered door openings operate in accordance with 7.2.1.9.

(9) Signage required by 7.2.1.4.1(3), 7.2.1.5.5, 7.2.1.6, and 7.2.1.9 is intact and legible.

(10) Door openings with special locking arrangements function in accordance with 7.2.1.6

(11) Security devices that impede egress are not installed on openings, as required by 7.2.1.5.12.

(12) Where required by 7.2.2.5.5.7, door hardware marking is present and intact.

(13) Emergency lighting on access-controlled egress doors and doors equipped with delayed-egress locking systems is present and functioning in accordance with Section 7.9.

7.2.1.15.7* 7.2.1.15.8 Door openings not in proper operating condition shall be repaired or replaced without delay.

Statement: Inspection and testing requirements for fire and smoke doors do not belong in the means of egress chapter. The provisions of 7.2.1.15 deal with inspection of door openings for means of egress doors only; fire and smoke door inspection and testing requirements belong in Chapter 8 since these are requirements the occupancy chapters should not have to "opt in" to do (7.2.1.15 is an "opt-in" program that occupancies can choose to do).

References to NFPA 80 and 105 are being removed from this section, and are being moved to create a new Section 8.8 that addresses inspection and testing of smoke barrier, smoke partition and hazardous area doors (using extracted requirements from NFPA 105) and a new 8.3.3.13 to address inspection and testing requirements for fire doors (per NFPA 80). Given this, all references in 7.2.1.15 that pertain to fire and smoke doors are being deleted. The performance option that permits inspection frequencies to be other than annually are retained and the applicable criteria from NFPA 80 subsection 5.2.2 inserted.

12Printed on 9/11/2012

Relative to new items (12) and (13) in renumbered 7.2.1.15.6, the items are required by their respective provisions in

7.2.2.5.5.7, 7.9 and 7.2.1.6.1.1(5), and 7.9 & 7.2.1.6.2(7) to have additional components or features that should be included in the safety inspections under 7.2.1.15. Adding them to the list of inspection items ensures these items will, where applicable, be included in the inspections.

Relative to the asterisk being added to renumbered 7.2.1.15.7, see the new annex text being added.

101 FR233 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.2.1.2) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.2.1.2* 7.2.2.2.1.2 Minimum New Stair Width. (See also 7.3.3.)

Statement: The minimum width for a stair is the greater of the minimum stated in 7.2.2.2.1.2 and the width necessary to accommodate the floor population as stated in 7.3.3. Many Code users miss 7.3.3, so this new text would provide a cross-reference. Associated annex text is being added.

101 FR214 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.4.4) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.4.4 Direction. For standard stairs, at least one handrail shall be installed at a right angle to the leading edge of the stair treads.

Statement: The proposed text exists in NFPA 5000. Standard stairs that flare in width along the stair run need a handrail that is installed at a right angle to the leading edge of the treads as that is the safest direction for a stair user to follow in traversing the stair run.

101 FR215 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.5.2.4) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.5.2.4 Separation shall not be required between corridors and outside stairs, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The building, including corridors and stairs, is protected throughout by an approved, electrically supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, or, where applicable, NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to and Including Four Stories in Height.

(2) The corridors comply with 7.1.3.1.

(3) The corridors are connected on each end to an outside stair complying with 7.2.2.6.

(4) At any location in the corridor where a change in direction exceeding 45 degrees occurs, a clear opening to the exterior of not less than 35 ft

(3.25 m ), located to restrict the accumulation of smoke and toxic gases, or an outside stair is provided.

Statement: The proposed text exists in NFPA 5000. The option offered, to the core requirement for separation, is useful and technically viable.

13Printed on 9/11/2012

101 FR235 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.5.4.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.5.4.1 New enclosed stairs serving three or more stories and existing enclosed stairs, other than those adddressed in 7.2.2.5.4.1(P), serving five or more stories shall comply with 7.2.2.5.4.1(A) through 7.2.2.5.4.1(M).

(A) The stairs shall be provided with special signage within the enclosure at each floor landing.

(B) The signage shall indicate the floor level.

(C) The signage shall indicate the terminus of the top and bottom of the stair enclosure.

(D) The signage shall indicate the identification of the stair enclosure.

(E) The signage shall indicate the floor level of, and the direction to, exit discharge.

(F) The signage shall be located inside the stair enclosure. approximately 60 in. (1525 mm)

(G) The bottom of the signage shall be located a minimum of 48 in. (1220 mm) above the floor landing and the top of the signage shall be located a maximum of 84 in. (2135 mm) above the floor landing.

(H) The signage shall be in a position that is visible when the door is in the open or closed position.

(I) (G) The signage shall comply with 7.10.8.1 and 7.10.8.2 of this Code.

(J) (H) The floor level designation shall also be tactile in accordance with ICC/ANSI A117.1, American National

Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities.

(K) (I) The signage shall be painted or stenciled on the wall or on a separate sign securely attached to the wall.

(L) (J) The stairway identification letter shall be located at the top of the sign in minimum 1 in. (25 mm) high lettering and shall be in accordance with 7.10.8.2.

(M) (K)* Signage that reads NO ROOF ACCESS and is located under the stairway identification letter shall designate stairways that do not provide roof access. Lettering shall be a minimum of 1 in. (25 mm) high and shall be in accordance with 7.10.8.2.

(N) (L) The floor level number shall be located in the middle of the sign below the stairway identifier in minimum 5 in.

(125 mm) high numbers and shall be in accordance with 7.10.8.2. Mezzanine levels shall have the letter “M” or other appropriate identification letter preceding the floor number, while basement levels shall have the letter “B” or other appropriate identification letter preceding the floor level number.

(O) (M) Identification of the lower and upper terminus of the stairway shall be located at the bottom of on the sign in minimum 1 in. (25 mm) high letters or numbers and shall be in accordance with 7.10.8.2.

(P) Previously approved, existing signage shall not be required to comply with 7.2.2.5.4.1(L) through (O).

Statement: New stairway signage requirements were added to the 2003 edition of the Code detailing dimensional criteria for lettering and location of information on the signage. The existing code language requires that previously approved existing stair signage must be replaced to meet the new requirements. Previously approved stairway signage meeting the Code requirements of the 2000 edition should be permitted to remain. The existing language will adversely affect the healthcare industry as countless facilities across the country have recently provided new stair signage to meeting NFPA 101 2000 edition requirements which is enforced by the Center for medicare/Medicaid Services.

Requiring previously approved existing signage to be replaced again will cause a burden on healthcare facilities many of which have replaced their signage to meet NFPA 101 2000 edition requirements.

The existing language is one of the few instances the Code does not provide a specific dimension which has led to confusion during life safety compliance surveys. Furthermore, the paragraph does not specify if the approximate dimension is to the top of the sign, bottom of the sign, or the middle of the sign. It is assumed the intent of the Code it to ensure the sign is mounted at a height near the eye level of most people. The proposed signage height of 4 to 7 ft above the floor should be near the eye level of most people and accommodate a variety of signage shapes and configurations.

The proposal will also coordinate with the ADA Accessibility Guidelines which require permanent identification signage of an area to be 60 inches above the floor to the centerline of the sign.

Some of the current specificity is not needed and conflicts with other criteria. The revised wording clarifies the required criteria.

14Printed on 9/11/2012

101 FR237 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.5.5.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.5.5.1* 7.2.2.5.5.1 Exit Stair Treads. Exit stair treads shall incorporate a marking stripe that is applied as a paint/coating or be a material that is integral with the nosing of each step.

(A) The marking stripe shall be installed along the horizontal leading edge of the step and shall extend the full width of the step.

(B) The marking stripe shall also meet all of the following requirements:

(1) The marking stripe shall be not more than ½ in. (13 mm) from the leading edge of each step and shall not overlap the leading edge of the step by more than ½ in. (13 mm) down the vertical face of the step.

(2) The marking stripe shall have a minimum horizontal width of 1 in. (25 mm) and a maximum width of 2 in. (51 mm).

(3) The dimensions and placement of the marking stripe shall be uniform and consistent on each step throughout the exit enclosure.

(4) Surface-applied marking stripes using adhesive-backed tapes shall not be used.

Statement: Asterisk added to denote the presence of annex text that is being added.

101 FR220 SAF-MEA

(7.2.2.5.5.7) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.2.5.5.7 Door Hardware Marking. The door hardware for the doors serving the exit enclosure that swing out from the enclosure in the direction of egress travel shall be provided with a marking stripe. The marking stripe shall also meet the following requirements:

(1)* The door hardware necessary to release the latch shall be outlined with an approved marking stripe having a minimum width of 1 in. (25 mm).

(2) Where panic hardware is installed, both of the following criteria shall be met:

(a) The marking stripe shall have a minimum horizontal width of 1 in. (25 mm) and be applied to the entire length of the actuating bar or touch pad.

(b) The placement of the marking stripe shall not interfere with viewing of any instructions on the actuating bar or touch pad.

Statement: The strip in question is mounted vertically, so its width should not be referred to as being horizontal.

101 FR260 SAF-MEA

(7.2.4.3.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.4.3.1* 7.2.4.3.1 Fire barriers separating buildings or areas between which there are horizontal exits shall have a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating, unless otherwise provided in 7.2.4.4.1, and shall provide a separation that is continuous to the finished ground level. (See also Section 8.3.)

Statement: The asterisk notes the presence of the annex material being added.

15Printed on 9/11/2012

101 FR239 SAF-MEA

(7.2.4.3.4) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.4.3.4 Where fire barriers serving horizontal exits, other than existing horizontal exits, terminate at outside walls, and the outside walls are at an angle of less than 180 degrees for a distance of 10 ft (3050

mm) on each side of the horizontal exit, the outside walls shall be protected by one of the following methods:

(a) The outside walls shall have a minimum 1-hour fire resistance rating, with opening protectives having a minimum

¾-hour fire protection rating, for a distance of 10 ft (3050 mm) on each side of the horizontal exit.

(b) One of the outside walls shall have a 2-hour fire resistance rating with opening protectives having a minimum 1 1/2

–hour fire protection rating, for a distance of 10 ft (3050 mm) from termination of the horizontal exit.

Statement: The proposed revision provides an alternate to the existing requirement. The intent is to prevent migration of fire or smoke from one compartment to the next. The proposed 2-hour fire resistance-rated exterior wall on one side will provide such protection and offer design flexibility.

101 FR266 SAF-MEA

(7.2.4.3.5) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.4.3.5* 7.2.4.3.5 Fire barriers forming horizontal exits shall not be penetrated by ducts, unless one of the following criteria is met:

(1) The ducts are existing penetrations protected by approved and listed fire dampers.

(2) The building is protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with

Section 9.7.

(3) The duct penetrations are those permitted in detention and correctional occupancies as otherwise provided in

Chapters 22 and 23 and are protected by combination fire dampers/smoke leakage–rated dampers that meet the smoke damper actuation requirements of 8.5.5.

Statement: The asterisk notes the presence of the annex text being added.

101 FR216 SAF-MEA

(7.2.5.2) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.5.2 Vehicle Ramps. Vehicle ramps in parking structures, as permitted in 42.8.2.2.6, and not an accessible means of egress or other accessible element, shall be exempt from the provisions of 7.2.5.

Statement: The provision proposed as 7.2.5.2 exists in NFPA 5000. The text is needed in NFPA 101 to avoid a conflict between Chapter 7 and Chapter 42.

101 FR240 SAF-MEA

(7.2.8.1.1) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.8.1.1 Fire Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, fire escape stairs shall comply with the provisions of 7.2.8, unless they are approved existing fire escape stairs.

Statement: Not all occupancy chapters allow fire escape stairs. New new health care occupancies, Chapter 18, is an example. As written, 7.2.8.1.1 might be seen as mandatory language that allows fire escape stairs in all occupancies.

16Printed on 9/11/2012

101 FR241 SAF-MEA

(7.2.8.4) Submitter: Technical Committee Means of Egress Recommendation: 7.2.8.4 Stair Details.

7.2.8.4.1…