Code Question

Code Question: Expert Staff Opinions

International Fire Code
Chapter 10—Means of Egress

SECTION [B] 1003.4
IBC Interpretation No. 16-08
2006 Edition
Issued: 11-05-2008
FI_06_24_08_PRP_01

[B] 1003.4 Floor surface. Walking surfaces of the means of egress shall have a slip-resistant surface and be securely attached.

RELATED SECTION:

[B] 1002.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

EXIT DISCHARGE. That portion of a means of egress system between the termination of an exit and a public way.

MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal egress travel from any occupied portion of a building or structure to a public way. A means of egress consists of three separate and distinct parts: the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge.

Q: Do the requirements of Section 1003.4 of the International Building Code, for the "Walking surfaces of the means of egress…" apply to the exit discharge?

A: Yes. The means of egress includes three separate and distinct parts: the exit access, the exit, and the exit discharge. Therefore, the provisions for the walking surface, in accordance with the provisions of Section 1003.4 of the International Building Code, are applicable to all three parts of the means of egress system, including the exit discharge portion.