Building Design and Safety

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of stairways in a high-rise building?

To move people and objects up and down the structure

What is the purpose of enclosing stairwells in walls with at least a two-hour fire rating?

To reduce the risk of fire and smoke infiltration

What is the result of fire in an occupancy space?

Heat and gases are expanding

What type of transportation system is used in large footprint buildings?

People movers Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of building codes regulating stairways?

To provide safe and continuous passage Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the continuous and uninterrupted passage from one floor or story to another in a building?

Building stairways Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between early high-rise stairways and modern stairways?

Enclosed stairwell with fire-rated walls and doors Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of doors having at least a one-hour fire rating in stairways?

To withstand a direct fire assault for a prescribed period Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of an enclosed stairway in a high-rise building?

To provide a means of escape for occupants during a fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of maintaining stair shafts free of smoke and obstructions during fire operations and evacuation?

To facilitate the search for life and fire during emergency operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of smoke blockers/curtains in high-rise building firefighting operations?

To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to have each stairwell uniquely identified and labeled in a high-rise building?

To enable the IC to make announcements during an incident response Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum distance an occupant would have to travel to an exit in a high-rise building with full sprinkler system protection?

Distance varies depending on occupancy and structure Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of reviewing the building information card during a high-rise building incident response?

To review the building's occupancy and distance to exits Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of portable fan equipment in high-rise building firefighting operations?

To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'point of no return' in a high-rise building incident response?

It marks the furthest point from which an occupant can safely escape Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of in-house smoke management equipment in high-rise building firefighting operations?

To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ensure that stair identification markings, instruction signs, emergency lighting, and smoke management systems are present and functional in a high-rise building?

To enhance the safety of occupants during an evacuation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why open stairwells are not typically found in high-rise buildings?

To comply with modern building and fire codes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a transfer hallway within a stairwell?

To enable occupants to travel across a protected space to another location Signup and view all the answers

What type of stair design is characterized by a 180° turn in the walk line?

U-shaped stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of quarter landing stairs?

They provide a small rest break in the climb Signup and view all the answers

Why are straight-run stairs limited in their use?

They are not approved for use as exit stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a stair design that ascends or descends one flight to a landing between floors and then continues to another landing?

Return stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a grand open stairway in the main entrance of a high-rise building?

To create a welcoming atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What type of stair design is characterized by a straight run from the base to the terminus point?

Straight-run stairs Signup and view all the answers

Why may a variance be requested by the architect for an open stairway beyond the mezzanine level?

To accommodate evacuation challenges Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when a lobby area has been compromised from an all-hazard emergency?

Evacuation challenges Signup and view all the answers

What is a major concern with straight-run stairs in firefighting operations?

Slower-than-normal firefighting operations are required due to safety concerns Signup and view all the answers

Why are scissor stairs designed within the core of the building?

To meet code requirements for two means of egress from a floor area Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue with scissor stairs during an evacuation?

The evacuees may have to pass through the fire to reach an exit Signup and view all the answers

Why is stairwell identification and labeling important in scissor stairs?

To prevent confusion between the two stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What is a drawback of having scissor stairs behind an elevator shaft?

It can impede evacuees from reaching an exit door Signup and view all the answers

Why are scissor stairs considered a vertical challenge in high-rise buildings?

They can pose a significant danger for those traveling downward Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue with scissor stairs in terms of smoke travel?

Smoke can travel up the stairs and affect upper floors Signup and view all the answers

What is a concern with broadcasting evacuation instructions to civilians during a fire in a high-rise building with scissor stairs?

The instructions may cause confusion due to the scissor stairs design Signup and view all the answers

Why are scissor stairs designed with a wall separating the stairs?

To prevent people from crossing over the railings Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of scissor stairs?

They have two individual sets of stairs that crisscross Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of opening stairway doors on hot and humid days?

To increase airflow up and off the floor level Signup and view all the answers

Which type of stairway is characterized by a change in direction, leading users left or right of where they were on the floor above or below?

L-shaped stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the intermediate space in a fire tower stair?

To vent contaminants and hinder smoke from entering the stairwell Signup and view all the answers

Why are fire tower stairs not commonly found in modern high-rise buildings?

They take up too much floor space Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance required between stairway doors in a scissor stair configuration?

15 feet Signup and view all the answers

Which type of stairway is prohibited from sharing a common wall, floor, or ceiling?

Scissor stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with winder stairs?

Tripping hazards Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of having both stairway doors temporarily fixed in an open position during a fire?

Increasing the risk of smoke contamination Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of fire tower stairs?

They are preferred for evacuation during a fire incident Signup and view all the answers

Why are fire tower stairs still found in older high-rise buildings?

They were mandatory in pre-1960 building codes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of having an access stairway within a business occupancy?

It provides a convenient means for employees to travel between floors without leaving their office space Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with open access stairways passing through multiple floors?

They can allow fire and smoke to travel to other floors Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of closely spaced sprinkler heads in an access stair installation?

To provide fire protection and prevent the spread of fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe a multifloor dwelling unit with access/convenience stairs?

Maisonette Signup and view all the answers

Why is pre-incident planning and the development of a battle plan highly recommended for multifloor dwelling units?

To ensure firefighters are familiar with the building's layout Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a draft curtain at the ceiling level in an access stair installation?

To capture and activate a smoke detector device Signup and view all the answers

What is the main benefit of having a fire tower in a high-rise building?

It represents a viable means for occupant evacuation Signup and view all the answers

What is the authority responsible for dictating the type of fire protection required for an access stair installation?

The authority having jurisdiction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with multifloor dwelling units in high-rise buildings?

They can create firefighter challenges and confusion Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of including information about access stairs on a building information card?

To provide firefighters with a more detailed understanding of the building's layout Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary requirement for exit access stairways and ramps in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system?

The area of vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of the opening Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a draft curtain in exit access stairways and ramps?

To prevent smoke from spreading between floors Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of spiral stairs in castle turrets during medieval times?

They made it difficult for attackers to ascend in single-file fashion Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of interior stairs in multilevel apartment units?

To connect multiple levels within a single apartment Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of properly identifying and labeling stairwells in high-rise buildings?

It helps occupants to navigate the building during emergencies Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of closely spaced sprinklers in exit access stairways and ramps?

To protect openings between stories Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary challenge faced by firefighters in multilevel apartment units with interior stairs?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of spiral stairs in lighthouses?

To access high levels in a limited space Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of having apartments on multiple levels with interior stairs?

It allows occupants to access all levels within a single apartment Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of reviewing the building information card during a high-rise building incident response?

To review the building's layout and design Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of installing a dry standpipe riser in attic spaces?

To provide firefighting hose lines for the entire building Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the open spiral staircase in the Ansonia Hotel?

It is a decorative feature that does not compromise fire safety Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of installing fire-rated doors in stairwells?

To inhibit fire from extending into the stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of using spiral stairs in high-rise residential buildings?

They can be designed to utilize a limited plot and afford greater floor area Signup and view all the answers

What is the concern with using spiral stairs in high-rise buildings?

The open tread risers expose a greater area to fire and heat Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of reviewing the building information card during a high-rise building incident response?

To devise a battle plan for the attacking firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 2015 International Building Code, New Jersey edition Section 1011.10?

It permits the use of spiral stairways as a component in the means of egress Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of stretching a hoseline up a spiral staircase?

To access the fire from the lowest level Signup and view all the answers

What is the concern with entering a dwelling unit from the main entry floor?

It may not provide direct access to the fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a hose strap when stretching a hoseline up a spiral staircase?

To keep the hose from slipping back down onto the floor Signup and view all the answers

When gaining entrance to a multifloor apartment, why is it best to enter on the lowest floor?

To ensure firefighters encounter the fire on the same floor or on an upper floor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of exterior open cage stairs and fire escapes in high-rise buildings?

To provide an alternate means of egress. Signup and view all the answers

In which year did a fire occur in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory, resulting in more than 146 fatalities?

1911 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with exterior open cage stairs and fire escapes?

They are prone to degradation due to atmospheric air and climate conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a fire escape failing while firefighters are advancing into the fire area?

It may delay fire operations, and the fire may expand greatly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the small yard or space with access to an alley or street in the Garment District of Manhattan?

It allows for a secondary means of egress. Signup and view all the answers

According to the 2015 International Building Code, how often should a fire escape examination be conducted?

Every 5 years Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using exterior open cage stairs during fire operations?

They provide an alternate means of access to the fire area or the floor above. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a cage on a fixed ladder that is taller than 24 ft?

To meet OSHA requirements Signup and view all the answers

What is the term that is no longer used in NFPA publications because it is considered misleading?

Fire-proof Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location of exterior open cage stairs in high-rise buildings?

On the C side, or the rear of the building. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of photoluminescent exit path markings in stairwells?

To highlight the exit paths during an emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with using a dry standpipe associated with exterior open cage stairs?

It may be prone to degradation due to atmospheric air and climate conditions. Signup and view all the answers

When should a fixed ladder be examined for structural adequacy and safety?

Every 5 years Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary factor that contributed to the failure of the exterior fire escape during the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire?

It was overloaded with people trying to escape. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a registered design professional examining a fire escape stairway?

To evaluate the structural integrity of the fire escape stairway Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why exterior open cage stairs and fire escapes are still in existence in many older urban environments?

They were installed as a secondary means of egress. Signup and view all the answers

Why may a caged ladder present difficulties for firefighters wearing SCBA equipment?

Because it may obstruct the SCBA equipment Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an inspection report after a fire escape stairway examination?

To document the findings of the examination Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 2015 International Fire Code regarding fire escape stairways?

It requires regular examinations of fire escape stairways Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary requirement for means of egress in existing buildings?

Comply with both the minimum egress requirements and the building code that applied at the time of construction Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of emergency stop buttons on escalators?

To stop the escalator motors Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary component of an escalator that serves as a mechanical structure?

Truss Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of an escalator in emergency situations?

To be used as a stairway during an emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary component of an elevator system that moves in guide rails?

Car rails Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of occupant evacuation elevators (OEEs)?

To evacuate people quickly during an emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern for firefighters when responding to an escalator incident?

Having a good working knowledge of escalator operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of reviewing the building information card during a high-rise building incident response?

It provides information about the building's layout and design Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of noting the floor location of the electric service panels during a building visit or inspection?

To shut down the power to the escalators during an emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern for firefighters when dealing with escalators during a fire incident?

The risk of injury from moving stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique feature of destination control elevator systems?

Floor selection is chosen from a lobby keypad for a specific floor destination Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a key access panel in a destination control elevator system?

To provide emergency personnel with access to the elevator system Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having a good working knowledge of elevator operations for firefighters?

It reduces the risk of entrapment and injury during firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the code that regulates elevator safety in the United States?

ASME A17.1 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the ASME A17.4 code?

It provides a guide for emergency personnel responding to elevator emergencies Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using cableless elevator cars controlled by powerful magnets?

They can travel vertically and horizontally without the need for cables Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Edge East Side Berlin high-rise building project?

To demonstrate the feasibility of cableless elevator systems Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for firefighters to participate in the development of elevator codes and standards?

To ensure that elevator systems are designed with firefighter safety in mind Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of having multiple elevator cars in lower, middle, and upper elevator banks in a high-rise building?

To improve safety and accessibility for firefighters and emergency personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having a good understanding of elevator operations during a fire or all-hazard incident?

It reduces the risk of injury or entrapment during firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of photoluminescent exit path markings in stairwells?

To aid in evacuation from buildings in the event of failure of both the power and back-up power to the lighting and illuminated exit signs Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the door frame markings at the exit discharge level in photoluminescent exit path markings?

To highlight the last exit door onto a public way Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of the 2015 International Fire Code, Section 1025 Luminous Egress Path Markings?

To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of photoluminescent exit path markings in stairwells?

They will aid in evacuation from buildings in the event of failure of both the power and back-up power to the lighting and illuminated exit signs Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of installing photoluminescent markings in mechanical spaces?

To easily maneuver around equipment, low-hanging objects, and other obstacles Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the ability of a material to store incident electromagnetic radiation and release it in a form of visible light?

Photoluminescence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the NYC Local Law 26 of 2004?

To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the NYC DOB task force?

To develop a city standard for the installation of photoluminescent exit path markings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the illustrations in the NYC Local Law 26 of 2004?

To show where the exit path markings should be placed for stairwells, obstructions within a stairwell, intermediate and final exit doors, and signage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the 2015 International Fire Code, Section 1025 Luminous Egress Path Markings?

To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Transportation Systems and Travel Routes

There are various transportation systems in high-rise buildings to move people, materials, and objects, including stairways, elevators, escalators, and people movers.
These systems are regulated by building codes and are designed to provide a continuous and uninterrupted passage from one floor to another.

Stairs

Stairways are the oldest transportation system in high-rise buildings and have evolved over time.
Early stairways were open and spacious, but later codes required stairwells to be enclosed in walls with fire-resistant materials to prevent fire and smoke from spreading.
Enclosed stairways are vital for occupant evacuation and provide a protected space for firefighters to operate.
Stairways can serve as a water supply depot for standpipe/sprinkler riser operations and a transport system for other support operations.

Enclosed versus Open Stairwells

Early 20th-century high-rise buildings had open stairwells, but modern codes require stair enclosures throughout the building.
Open stairwells are still allowed in some buildings, but they can be compromised by all-hazard emergencies.

Transfer Hallways

A transfer hallway is a floor space within an enclosed stairwell that redirects occupants to another physical location, enabling them to reconnect to the same stairwell.
Transfer hallways are usually short and may be located around mechanical equipment rooms or in new buildings attached to existing structures.

Return Stairs

Return stairs are constructed to be entered at one level and then ascend or descend to a landing between floors, returning to the same general location but one floor up or down.
Examples of return stair designs include U-shaped stairs, half-turn stairs, and switchback stairs.

Straight-Run Stairs

Straight-run stairs are simply stairs with a straight run from the base to the terminus point.
They may be designed with landings at each floor, but are generally not approved for use as exit stairs due to tripping hazards.

Scissor Stairs

Scissor stairs are designed to meet code requirements for two means of egress from a floor area, with core entry/exit points in close proximity.
However, this design can be flawed, as occupants may have to pass through the core area to reach an exit door, which can be impeded by a fire.
Scissor stairs can be problematic during fire and emergency operations, as they require firefighters to understand the stairwell configuration and labeling.

L-Shaped Stairs

L-shaped stairs will deposit users in a different geographic location than the one they entered on, leading up or down and also left or right of where they were on the floor above or below.

Winder Stairs

Winder stair designs are usually not permitted for high-egress stairs but may be used as access stairs between floors occupied by the same firm or occupant.
They are conducive to tripping hazards, similar to circular stairs.

Fire (Smoke) Tower Stairs

Fire tower stairs are designed in a separate enclosed tower or stair-shaftway tower within or external to the building.
They provide a preferred evacuation route for a fire incident, as the intermediate space vents contaminants and prevents smoke from entering the enclosed stairwell.### High-Rise Buildings: Understanding the Vertical Challenges
High-rise buildings present unique challenges for firefighters, including complex stairway systems and access issues.

Multifloor Dwelling Unit-Access/Convenience Stairs

Multifloor dwelling unit-access/convenience stairs can be found in tower blocks and high-rise buildings.
These stairs can span two or more floors and may be referred to as maisonettes.
The stairs can be designed with an open or enclosed configuration, and may be located within a wall or against a wall.
Firefighters may encounter difficulties in defining the exact fire location, connecting to the closest water source, and performing life safety searches.

Spiral (Circular) Stairs

Spiral stairs are not designed for tall building evacuation, but are used as high-rise access/convenience stairs within dwelling units.
Spiral stairs have been used for thousands of years, including in the construction of Solomon's temple.
They are used in lighthouses, religious structures, and museums, and are often used for artistic design rather than function.
The stair construction materials can be metal, wood, stone, or glazing, and may be open, exposing a greater area to fire and heat.

Exterior Open Cage Stairs and Fire Escapes

Exterior open cage stairs and fire escapes were used as a second means of egress in older buildings.
They are often located on the rear or side of the building and may be used by firefighters to gain alternate access to the fire area.
Exterior open cage stairs and fire escapes are constructed of ferrous metals and may be subject to degradation and failure.

Fixed Ladders

Fixed ladders are used to gain access from one level to another, often in mechanical equipment rooms or roof access closets.
According to OSHA regulations, if a fixed ladder is taller than 24 ft, it is required to have a cage that meets OSHA requirements.

Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings

Photoluminescent exit path markings were first used in the World Trade Center after the 1993 bombing.
They are used to highlight exit paths within stairwells, and are often marked on steps, landings, and handrails.
The NYC Department of Buildings enacted Local Law 26 in 2004 to require photoluminescent exit path markings for both existing and new office buildings.### Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings
Photoluminescent exit path markings are designed to aid in evacuation from buildings in the event of power failure and back-up power to lighting and illuminated exit signs.
Markings are charged by exposure to light and emit luminance after the activating light source is unavailable.
They provide luminescent signs and outlines of the egress path, stairs, handrails, and obstacles to aid occupants in dark conditions.

Luminous Egress Path Markings (2015 International Fire Code)

Approved luminous egress path markings are required in high-rise buildings of Groups A, B, E, I, M, and R-1 occupancies.
Markings must be provided in accordance with Sections 1025.1 through 1025.5.

Means of Egress for Existing Buildings (2015 International Fire Code)

Means of egress in existing buildings must comply with minimum egress requirements when specified in Table 1103.1.
The building code that applied at the time of construction must be considered, and the most restrictive provision shall apply.

Escalators

Escalators are commonly used in office buildings, hotel lobbies, and public buildings.
Major components of escalators include landings, comb plate, truss, tracking system, step, and handrail.
Emergency stop buttons can be located below or adjacent to the handrails at both the top and bottom levels of the escalator.
Escalators can be used as evacuation stairs in emergency stop mode.

Elevator Systems

An elevator is a hoisting and lowering mechanism that moves in guide rails and serves two or more landings.
Conventional elevator systems consist of a hoistway, machine room, pit area, car rails, and governor system.
Elevator banks at the lobby level should indicate bank identification, car numbers, and floors served.
Destination control elevator systems use a lobby keypad for floor selection, and no floor selection buttons are available to occupants within the elevator car.
Recent technological developments include cableless elevator cars controlled by powerful magnets.

Codes and Standards for Elevator Safety

U.S. codes: American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) A17.1, A17.2, A17.3, and A17.4.
Canada: CSA B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
Note: ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, is combined for U.S./Canadian use.

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Test your knowledge of stairways and safety features in high-rise buildings. Learn about the importance of fire ratings, evacuation systems, and building codes.