maximum exit access travel distance

• Company News

Consulting Services

• Fire Protection, Life Safety, and Accessibility Code Consulting
• Healthcare Specialty Consulting
• NFPA 241, Construction Fire Safety, Permitting and Turnover Consulting
• Laboratory / Industrial / Hazardous Chemical Compliance Consulting
• Battery & Energy Storage System Fire Safety

Inspection, Testing & Commissioning

• Fire Door Testing and Inspections
• Firestop Special Inspections
• Life Safety System Re-Commissioning & Retro-Commissioning
• NFPA 3, Fire Protection System Commissioning and NFPA 4 Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety System Testing
• Smoke Control Special Inspections

System Design

• Fire Alarm System Design
• Performance-Based Design
• Smoke Control System Design
• Fire Protection System Design
• Third Party Reviews

Measuring Exit Access Travel Distances

Back to Insights

October 10, 2022 by Nick Ostrowski

The exit access configuration within a building is impacted by multiple code requirements to ensure that occupants can safely reach an exit and continue to the exit discharge. One of the major limitations that is required to be evaluated when configuring the exit access arrangement is Exit Access Travel Distance. Exit Access Travel Distances are limitations that identify the maximum distance from any point of a story to an exit. These are measured along the exit path from the most remote point of a story along the natural and unobstructed path of horizontal and vertical egress travel to the entrance to an exit (2015 IBC 1017.3). An exit can include exterior exit doors at the level of exit discharge, interior exit stairways and ramps, exit passageways, exterior exit stairs and ramps and horizontal exits.

Although IBC Section 1017.3 and NFPA 101 Section 7.6 outline how this measurement is taken, there are some common questions raised specific to this process given the different components exit access configurations consist of. The following include a few clarifications to address some these misconceptions while measuring Exit Access Travel Distances:

• Travel Distances are measured to the nearest exit , not all exits. The most remote point on the floor is required to be within the exit access travel distance limitations to any one exit on the floor.
• Often, travel distances change throughout the design of a project. Introducing new furniture or wall partitions for a tenant fitout or alternate furniture layout on a floor may obstruct an existing exit access path. As a result, the new exit access path could exceed the maximum travel distance beyond what is permitted. As design changes take place, it should be confirmed that compliant exit access travel distances are maintained.
• If an exit access stairway or ramp is provided along the path of travel, the Exit Access Travel Distance includes the travel down the exit access stairway/ ramp. The measurement along exit access stairways is required to be made on a plane parallel and tangent to the stair tread nosing’s in the center of the stair and landings. The measurement along ramps is required to be made on the walking surface in the center of the ramp and landings.

It is important to understand how to measure exit access travel distances. If you have any questions on or concerns about this information, please contact our office at [email protected] .

Application of any information provided, for any use, is at the reader’s risk and without liability to Code Red Consultants. Code Red Consultants does not warrant the accuracy of any information contained in this blog as applicable codes and standards change over time. The application, enforcement and interpretation of codes and standards may vary between Authorities Having Jurisdiction and for this reason, registered design professionals should be consulted to determine the appropriate application of codes and standards to a specific scope of work.

• Codes and Standards

The IBC’s modification to exit access travel distance

Understanding the international building code’s increase for group f-1 and s-1 occupancy..

The 2015 International Building Code includes a key modification, increasing the length of exit access travel distance from 250 ft to 400 ft (if it meets specific criteria) for buildings containing Group F-1 and/or S-1 occupancy.

This change is significant to the design industry, building owners and occupants of large distribution and manufacturing facilities. Understanding the code’s implications for your existing and future facilities will ensure you’re properly prepared. A brief timeline of exit access travel distance

• 1994: In the 1994 Uniform Building Code, the exit access travel distance in a building protected with a fire sprinkler system was typically 200 ft. The exit access travel distance could be increased to 400 ft when facilities storing or manufacturing noncombustible products were provided with smoke/heat vents in addition to the fire sprinkler system.
• 1997: In the 1997 Uniform Building Code, this section was revised to allow this increase to apply to all warehouses and factories if they were protected with a fire sprinkler system and smoke/heat vents. This exit access travel distance increase resulted in larger buildings with open, undivided areas. A typical warehouse ranged from 600 to 700 ft wide. As buildings continued to grow, 600 ft became the narrow dimension for a warehouse, with many buildings exceeding 1000 ft in length.
• 2009/2012: The 2009/2012 editions of the International Building Code were revised to eliminate the 400 ft exit travel distance for large Group S-1 warehouses and large Group F-1 manufacturing facilities equipped with smoke and heat vents. This change was made because thermally activated vents were judged not to warrant such an increase.

The effects of eliminating the 400 ft exit travel distance

Due to the 400 ft loss, designers had to modify new warehouse and manufacturing facilities’ proportions or incur the cost of providing additional exits. And while it was clear to many in the industry that the original rationale for 400 ft was faulty, eliminating the requirement in its entirety was not an option.

The industry focused on ways to increase the travel distance for large buildings containing Group F-1 and/or S-1 occupancy.

Task group 400

An industry group in California came together as "Task Group 400" and conducted a fire modeling study, which demonstrated that the vast volume of large buildings could be used to contain smoke.

The group’s report was reviewed by the California State Fire Marshal’s Office and presented to the California Building Standard Commission, requesting a reinstatement of the 400 ft travel distance without any special protection, provided all of the following are met:

1. The portion of the building classified as Group F-1 or S-1 is limited to one story in height.

2. The minimum height from the finished floor to the bottom of the ceiling or roof slab or deck is 24 ft.

3. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1.

The exit access travel distance reversal was successfully passed, and California adopted an amended version of the 2009 International Building Code as the 2010 California Building Code.

California’s code change was later adopted into the 2015 edition of the International Building Code – the model code for most states.It should be noted that, although code no longer requires smoke and heat vents for this travel distance increase, vents or mechanical smoke removal system, are still required by Section 910.3 and 910.4  for Group S-1 and F-1 buildings of more than 50,000 sq ft. There are exceptions, however, for frozen food warehouses and areas with specific types of sprinkler systems.

Sonja Antunovic-Curcic has over 15 years of experience in architectural design. She has a strong technical background and ability to effectively transform challenges into opportunities. Her experience involves design of new buildings, expansions or alterations to existing buildings. This article originally appeared on Stellar Food for Thoughts . Stellar is a CFE Media content partner. Edited by Joy Chang, digital project manager, CFE Media, [email protected]

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our WTWH Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Click here to start this process.

• Use NFPA 3 for new, existing buildings
• Reviewing the 2014 NEC
• Fire and life safety: Six trends that matter to engineers

Related Resources

Privacy overview.

Means of Egress

Exiting is one of the most critical requirements of building codes. It comprises three main categories:. exit access, exit, and exit discharge (Figure 11.3).

Arrangement of exits is specified by code. They should be located as far apart from one another as possible so that if one is blocked in an emergency, the other(s) can still be reached. The code states that when two or more exits are required, they must be placed a distance apart equal to and not less than one-half the length of the longest diagonal dimension within the building or area to be served, as measured in a straight line between the exits. This is known as the half-diagonal rule and is shown diagram-matically in Figure 11.4).

The codes limit the length of travel distance from within a single space to an exit-access corridor. This is defined as the maximum distance and cannot exceed 200 feet (61 m) in an unsprinklered building and 250 feet (76.25 m) in a sprinklered building (Figure 11.5). There are exceptions to the rule, such as when the last portion of the travel distance is entirely within a 1-hour-rated exit corridor. Basically, codes classify travel distances into two types: The first relates to the length of travel distance from within a single space to the exit-access corridor (also known as the common path of travel), and the second

regulates the length of travel distance from anywhere in a building to the floor or building's exit. Typically, however, if the travel distance within a tenant space exceeds 75 feet (22.9m), an additional exit is required, even if it is not required by the occupant load.

Codes usually allow a room to have a single exit through an adjoining or intervening room, provided that it affords a direct and unobstructed means of travel to an exit corridor or other exit and as long as the total stipulated maximum travel distances are not exceeded. Exiting is not permitted through kitchens, storerooms, rest rooms, closets, or spaces used for similar purposes. Codes normally categorize foyers, lobbies, and reception rooms constructed as required for corridors with a one-hour-rated wall as intervening rooms, thereby allowing them to be used for exit purposes.

Typically, corridor construction must be of 1-hour fire-resistive construction when serving an occupant load of 10 or more in R-1 and I occupancies and when serving an occupant load of 30 or more in other occupancies. The 1-hour-rated corridors must extend through the ceiling to the rated floor or roof above unless the ceiling of the entire story is 1-hour-rated. Where a duct penetrates a fire-rated corridor, a fire damper that closes automatically upon detection of heat or smoke so as to restrict the passage of flame must be provided.

There are different types of stairs including straight run, curved, winder, spiral, scissor, etc. Exit stairs should be wide enough to allow for two people to descend side by side with no sudden decrease in width along the path of travel. Stairs must also adhere to specific code and accessibility requirements and be constructed in a manner and using materials consistent with the construction type of the building. Typically, new stairs are required to have a minimum width of 44 inches, an 11-inch tread depth, and a maximum riser height of 7 inches (Figure 11.6). Handrails and guardrails are likewise regulated.

Escalators and moving walkways, like elevators, are not usually allowed as a means of egress and should not be taken into account as such in egress calculations, although there may be some exceptions, in which case they must be provided with standby power and must comply with emergency operation and signaling-device requirements.

Requirements for residential exiting (individual dwelling units and single-family houses) are not as strict as for commercial occupancies. Codes typically have a subclassification specifically for dwelling units. The International Residential Code (IRC) is specifically designed for one- and two-family houses. The designer must verify which code is applicable to a particular project.

The IRC requires at least one regulated exterior door per residence with minimum dimensions of 30 inches x 80 inches. Bedrooms located on upper floors typically require an emergency means of egress for these areas—which can usually be an operable window as long as it is not more than 44 inches from the floor. Stair and ramp dimensions are also regulated but are not as strict as those for commercial use. One handrail is normally required in residential stairs and ramps.

Continue reading here: Accessibility Guidelines

Was this article helpful?

Recommended Books

• The Codes Guidebook for Interiors
• Building Codes Illustrated: A Guide to Understanding the 2018 International Building Code
• Building Codes and Regulations Simplified
• Building Codes and Standards: A Guide for Architects, Engineers, and Contractors

Related Posts

• Types of Occupancy - Building Codes
• Dimensioning Floor Plans - Construction Drawings
• Fire Safety Codes - Interior Designers
• Exit Passageways - National Buildings
• Means Of Egress - Interior Design

Readers' Questions

Which of the following statements about interior means of egress?

Providing clear and unobstructed paths for occupants to exit a building in case of an emergency is crucial for interior means of egress. Ensuring that interior doors along egress paths open in the direction of egress is important for facilitating a swift and safe evacuation. Emergency lighting and exit signs should be installed along interior means of egress to help occupants navigate the space during low visibility conditions. Interior means of egress should be regularly maintained and inspected to ensure that all exits are easily accessible and functional in case of an emergency.

How is the maximum occupancy for a building determined and based on interior square feet and exits?

The maximum occupancy for a building is determined by a combination of factors, including the interior square footage and available exits. Building codes and regulations, which may differ between jurisdictions, generally determine the maximum occupancy limits. These codes consider a variety of factors to ensure the safety and well-being of occupants in case of emergencies. One important factor is the size of the building, typically measured in square footage. Different types of buildings have specific requirements based on their use, such as residential, commercial, or assembly spaces like theaters or stadiums. These codes outline the area per person that must be maintained to allow for safe occupancy. Additionally, the number and design of exits are crucial for determining the maximum occupancy. The building code specifies the minimum number of exits required based on the size and layout of the building. This ensures that there are sufficient means of egress in case of emergencies like fires or other hazards. The codes also consider the travel distance to exits and their capacity to prevent overcrowding and facilitate a safe evacuation. It is important for building owners and operators to comply with these codes and regulations to ensure the safety of occupants. Failing to meet the maximum occupancy requirements can result in penalties and potentially jeopardize the wellbeing of those within the building.

What does egress stand for?

Egress does not stand for a specific acronym. The term "egress" refers to the act of exiting or going out of a place, such as a building or vehicle. It is often used in the context of emergency exits or evacuation routes.

What is an engress cordoor?

I'm sorry, but I couldn't find any information about an "engress cordoor". It is possible that it may be a misspelling or an uncommon term. If you have any additional details or context, I would be happy to try and help further.

How to solve for one half diagonal rule?

The one half diagonal rule is a relationship that exists between the lengths of the sides of a right triangle and the length of its hypotenuse. It states that the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. To solve for the length of one of the sides using the one half diagonal rule, you can follow these steps: Identify the right triangle you are working with. Assign variables to the lengths of the two shorter sides and the hypotenuse. Let's say the two shorter sides are represented by a and b, and the hypotenuse is c. Write down the one half diagonal rule equation as: c^2 = a^2 + b^2. Substitute the known values into the equation. If you know the lengths of the hypotenuse and one of the shorter sides, plug in those numbers. Rearrange the equation to solve for the unknown side. In this case, if you want to solve for side a, the equation would become: a = sqrt(c^2 - b^2) or b = sqrt(c^2 - a^2). Use a calculator if needed to find the square root and calculate the value of the unknown side. Finally, write down the value of the unknown side. It is important to remember that the one half diagonal rule only applies to right triangles, where one angle is 90 degrees.

How many exits are required for fire code?

The number of exits required for fire code depends on various factors, such as the occupancy classification of the building, its size, and its layout. Generally, fire codes require buildings to have at least two exits. However, larger buildings or buildings with a higher occupant load may be required to have more exits to ensure the safety of occupants during an emergency. It is important to consult with the local fire department or fire code officials to determine the specific requirements for your building.

What does egress mean in real estate?

In real estate, egress refers to the legal right to enter and exit a property from a specific route or access point. It is essentially the means of exiting a property and accessing public or private areas, such as roads, streets, or other properties. The presence of proper egress is essential to ensure safe and convenient access to and from a property, and it is typically a requirement for building permits and zoning regulations.

What is the minimum number of codecompliant exits required in any room?

According to the International Building Code (IBC) and most local building codes, the minimum number of code-compliant exits required in any room depends on various factors such as the occupancy classification, occupant load, and the distance to an exit. Generally, for most types of occupancies, including assembly areas, offices, and classrooms, at least two exit doors are required. These exits should be remote from each other and provide direct access to a safe exit route. If the occupant load exceeds a certain number (typically 50), additional exits may be required to ensure a safe egress for all occupants. However, it is important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on local building codes and regulations. It is recommended to consult with the local building authority or a qualified professional for accurate information based on the specific circumstances and location.

When three exits are required for a room, how should these exits be located?

When designing a room with three required exits, it is important to consider the layout and functionality of the space. Here is a suggestion on how these exits could be located: Primary Exit: The primary exit should be easily accessible and visible. It is often located near the entrance or the most frequently used area of the room. This exit should be wide enough to accommodate the expected number of occupants and should lead to a safe evacuation route. Secondary Exit: The secondary exit should be located opposite to the primary exit, preferably on another side of the room. This ensures that occupants have multiple options to escape in case of emergencies, such as blocked pathways or obstructions near one exit. The secondary exit should also be visible and easily reachable. Emergency Exit: The emergency exit should be strategically placed and easily distinguishable from the primary and secondary exits. It is usually located on another side of the room, away from the main flow of traffic, and should lead directly to a safe outdoor area. This exit may have additional safety features like fire-rated doors, emergency lighting, and directional signage. Considerations: - Try to avoid placing exits in close proximity to each other to prevent congestion during evacuation. - Ensure that exits are compliant with local building codes, safety regulations, and accessibility standards. - Position exits at appropriate locations to cater to the specific room layout, furniture placement, and traffic flow patterns within the space. - Install additional safety features such as fire extinguishers, emergency alarms, and clear evacuation signage to enhance occupant safety. It is recommended to consult with a professional architect or building engineer to ensure compliance with building and safety regulations when determining the exact placement of exits in a room.

How many exits are required in a commercial building?

The number of exits required in a commercial building depends on several factors such as the size of the building, its occupancy classification, and local building codes and regulations. Generally, commercial buildings are required to have a sufficient number of exits to ensure the safe evacuation of occupants during an emergency. Building codes typically specify that commercial buildings must have a minimum number of exits based on the total floor area, the number of occupants, and the travel distance from any point in the building to an exit. These codes aim to provide enough exit capacity to accommodate the maximum occupancy of the building in case of an emergency. It is best to consult with local building authorities or a professional architect or engineer to determine the specific number of exits required for a particular commercial building based on the applicable codes and regulations in the area.

How to measure stair width for egress?

To measure the stair width for egress, you can follow these steps: Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the inner edges of the handrails or guardrails on each side of the stairwell. This will give you the actual width of the stairway. Make sure to measure at several points along the staircase, including the top, middle, and bottom of the stairs, as well as any landings or platforms, if applicable. This is important to determine if the stair width remains consistent throughout. Take note of any protruding elements, such as newel posts, balusters, or other architectural features that may reduce the effective width of the stairs. Subtract the measurement of these elements from the overall width to obtain the clear width of the stairwell. Measure the width of each stair tread individually, from the nosing (front of the step) to the riser (vertical part of the step). This measurement should be consistent across all the stairs. Calculate the total number of stairs by counting each individual step or riser. This will help you determine the overall dimensions and capacity requirements for egress safety. Remember that specific building codes or regulations may have requirements for minimum stair width, tread depth, riser height, or other measurements related to egress safety. It is important to refer to local building codes or consult with a professional architect or building inspector to ensure compliance with these regulations.

What is the meaning of egress?

Egress is a noun that refers to the act or means of going out or exiting a place. It can also refer to a path or way out of a place, such as a doorway, gate, or exit.

What is the minimum width of an exit route?

The minimum width of an exit route depends on various factors and regulations such as the type of building, occupancy load, number of occupants, and local building codes. However, as a general guideline, the minimum width of an exit route is usually around 28 to 36 inches (71 to 91 cm) for most buildings. It is essential to check with local building authorities and follow applicable codes and regulations to ensure compliance and optimize safety.

What determines the number of emergency exits a building has to have?

The number of emergency exits a building must have is determined by building codes and regulations set by local authorities or government agencies. These codes and regulations vary depending on the type, size, occupancy, and intended use of the building. The main considerations taken into account include: Occupancy load: The number of people expected to be in the building at any given time. Buildings with a larger occupancy load generally require more emergency exits for efficient evacuation. Square footage: The total area or size of the building. Larger buildings may require more emergency exits to ensure safe and timely evacuation. Building type: Different types of buildings have specific requirements. For example, high-rise buildings typically have more stringent regulations due to their height and the potential difficulties in evacuation. Layout and travel distance: The arrangement and design of the building, including its floor plan and distances to emergency exits. There are typically limits on the maximum travel distance one must travel to reach an exit from any location within a building. Occupant load factor: This is the ratio of the actual number of occupants to the design occupant load. The occupant load factor is used to determine the minimum number of exits required based on the number of people in the building. It is essential for building owners and designers to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies and to obtain proper certifications and permits.

Which type of door is usually required as an exit door in a means of egress?

A type of door that is usually required as an exit door in a means of egress is called an "egress door." Egress doors are specifically designed and regulated to provide a safe and efficient exit route during emergency situations. They are typically equipped with panic hardware, which allows easy and quick egress by simply pushing on the door without requiring any special knowledge or effort to operate. Egress doors must also comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations to ensure the wellbeing of occupants during an emergency evacuation.

Is a large room an egress opath?

No, a large room is not considered an egress path. An egress path refers to a designated route or means of exit from a building in case of an emergency or fire, such as a hallway, corridor, stairway, or doorway. A large room may have multiple exits or access points, but it is not itself an egress path.

How to calculate number of exits required?

The number of exits required can vary depending on the building occupancy, floor area, and fire safety codes and regulations specific to your location. Here are steps to calculate the number of exits required in a building: Determine the Occupant Load: Identify the maximum number of people that can occupy the building or individual spaces within the building. This can be based on the intended use, such as office, retail, or assembly, and is usually provided by building codes or fire safety regulations. Determine the Required Width: Estimate or look up the required minimum width for exits in your local building codes or fire safety regulations. This information is usually provided in inches per occupant. Calculate the Required Exit Width: Multiply the occupant load by the required width per occupant to find the total exit width required. For example, if the occupant load is 100 and the required width is 0.2 inches per occupant, the required exit width would be 100 x 0.2 = 20 inches. Determine the Number of Exits: Divide the required exit width by the width of each exit door or stairway. This will give you the number of exits required. For example, if the required exit width is 20 inches and each exit door or stairway has a width of 40 inches, the number of exits required would be 20 in ÷ 40 in = 0.5 exits. Round up the Number of Exits: Since you can't have half of an exit, round up the number of exits required to the nearest whole number. In this example, the required number of exits would be rounded up to 1 exit. It is important to consult your local building codes or fire safety regulations for specific requirements and considerations as they may vary depending on the location and type of building.

Can a longest diagonal exit the tenant suite?

Yes, a tenant suite can have a longest diagonal exit. This can be used as an emergency exit.

What is an egress chart?

An egress chart is a diagram or map showing the various exits from a building, such as doors, fire exits and emergency exits. It provides information to occupants about the best way to evacuate the building in case of emergency.

Are there any code requirements for an egress drawing?

No, there are no specific code requirements for an egress drawing. However, egress drawings must comply with applicable building codes and any applicable local codes or regulations. In addition, egress drawings should clearly show details such as the number and width of exit routes, exit sign placement, emergency lighting and exit signage, and any other features that are critical to safe and efficient egress.

• Search forums

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.

Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.

• Welcome to the new and improved Building Code Forum. We appreciate you being here and hope that you are getting the information that you need concerning all codes of the building trades. This is a free forum to the public due to the generosity of the Sawhorses, Corporate Supporters and Supporters who have upgraded their accounts. If you would like to have improved access to the forum please upgrade to Sawhorse by first logging in then clicking here: Upgrades
• Commercial Codes
• Commercial Building Codes

Egress travel distance for two exits

• Thread starter Thread starter Mech
• Start date Start date Aug 26, 2010

SILVER MEMBER

• Aug 26, 2010

IBC 2006 / 9 From the most remote point, one must travel a distance less than the common path of egress travel before choosing which route to take to exit a building. Must both exits, measured from the most remote point, be within the maximum travel distance? I am thinking the answer is yes.  

BRONZE MEMBER

The travel distance is to ONE EXIT. If the travel is say 200-ft to an (mono) EXIT then the EXITS can be 400-ft apart as the crow flies. I go from the remote point in a room to the exit by using a L-shape out of the first room then the rest of the way can be a route that is as straight as possible if there are no items in the way to go around to the exit. Then from the adjacent room that the first was checked you go the other way to the second exit. You do not have to have both rooms to reach the same exit. I hope this makes sense, I can draw it better than describe it.  

Builder Bob

Basically yes............ As always, this is a ROT and your specific application may vary from other AHJ interpretations.  

I know the travel distance is to one exit. Must the second exit also have a travel distance less than the maximum allowed? Suppose the maximum allowable travel distance is 200 ft. If I exit a room and turn right, assume the first exit is 198 ft from the most remote point in that room. 198 < 200 - exit is good. If I exit that same room and turn left, assume the only other exit is 250 ft from the most remote point in that room. 250 > 200. Does this qualify as a second exit for this room since the travel distance exceeds the maximum allowed? BTW Examiner, one more post and I bet you'll achieve "silver" member status!!!  

1016.1 : "The maximum length of exit access travel...to AN ... exit". Just make sure every portion that needs two exits is within the required travel distance to at least one of the exits.  

Platinum Member

deleted. a duplicate appeared  

As others stated, ONE exit is required within the allowable travel distance. The travel distance to the second, third, or fourth exit(s) is not regulated.  

and if the fire blocks the exit within the allowable travel distance?  

• Aug 27, 2010

Then you die in a building that meets code. Or you move calmly but briskly a little further to get to the second exit.  

If you are in one room and from that room's the exit travel is max you are ok. Even if you have another EXIT farther away. If that one room meets the max travel distance and the adjacent room does not then the adjacent room must have AN exit within the required EXIT TRAVEL DISTANCE. There are only a few instances where you can have one exit and that is limited to travel distane less than the normal EXIT Travel, story height and occupant load. You will most always have two eixts and each room in a building with two EXITS must reach AN (ONE) (Mono) EXIT within the required travel distance.  

peach said: and if the fire blocks the exit within the allowable travel distance? Click to expand...

Mech - Valid concerns, however, the codes are a minimum... what you are posing or suggesting were certainly be desired but cannot be required by the minimums of the code.