Building Design and Safety

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Questions and Answers

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

  • To move people and materials horizontally
  • To move people and objects up and down the structure (correct)
  • To enclose the building with two-hour fire-rated walls
  • To provide aesthetics and ease of passage

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

  • To increase the aesthetic appeal of the stairway
  • To reduce the risk of fire and smoke infiltration (correct)
  • To decrease the number of stairs in the building
  • To provide additional storage space

What is the result of fire in an occupancy space?

  • Heat and gases are compressing
  • Heat and gases are expanding (correct)
  • Heat and gases are eliminated
  • Heat and gases are neutralized

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

<p>People movers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of building codes regulating stairways?

<p>To provide safe and continuous passage (C)</p> 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?

<p>Building stairways (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Enclosed stairwell with fire-rated walls and doors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To withstand a direct fire assault for a prescribed period (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide a means of escape for occupants during a fire (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To facilitate the search for life and fire during emergency operations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To enable the IC to make announcements during an incident response (B)</p> 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?

<p>Distance varies depending on occupancy and structure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To review the building's occupancy and distance to exits (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It marks the furthest point from which an occupant can safely escape (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To limit the migration of contaminating smoke into stair shafts (A)</p> 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?

<p>To enhance the safety of occupants during an evacuation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To comply with modern building and fire codes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To enable occupants to travel across a protected space to another location (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>U-shaped stairs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of quarter landing stairs?

<p>They provide a small rest break in the climb (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are straight-run stairs limited in their use?

<p>They are not approved for use as exit stairs (A)</p> 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?

<p>Return stairs (D)</p> 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?

<p>To create a welcoming atmosphere (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Straight-run stairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To accommodate evacuation challenges (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Evacuation challenges (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Slower-than-normal firefighting operations are required due to safety concerns (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To meet code requirements for two means of egress from a floor area (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>The evacuees may have to pass through the fire to reach an exit (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is stairwell identification and labeling important in scissor stairs?

<p>To prevent confusion between the two stairwells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It can impede evacuees from reaching an exit door (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They can pose a significant danger for those traveling downward (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Smoke can travel up the stairs and affect upper floors (B)</p> 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?

<p>The instructions may cause confusion due to the scissor stairs design (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To prevent people from crossing over the railings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of scissor stairs?

<p>They have two individual sets of stairs that crisscross (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To increase airflow up and off the floor level (D)</p> 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?

<p>L-shaped stairs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To vent contaminants and hinder smoke from entering the stairwell (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They take up too much floor space (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>15 feet (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Scissor stairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern with winder stairs?

<p>Tripping hazards (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Increasing the risk of smoke contamination (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of fire tower stairs?

<p>They are preferred for evacuation during a fire incident (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They were mandatory in pre-1960 building codes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It provides a convenient means for employees to travel between floors without leaving their office space (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They can allow fire and smoke to travel to other floors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide fire protection and prevent the spread of fire (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Maisonette (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To ensure firefighters are familiar with the building's layout (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To capture and activate a smoke detector device (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It represents a viable means for occupant evacuation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>The authority having jurisdiction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They can create firefighter challenges and confusion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide firefighters with a more detailed understanding of the building's layout (A)</p> 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?

<p>The area of vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of the opening (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To prevent smoke from spreading between floors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They made it difficult for attackers to ascend in single-file fashion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To connect multiple levels within a single apartment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It helps occupants to navigate the building during emergencies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To protect openings between stories (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of spiral stairs in lighthouses?

<p>To access high levels in a limited space (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It allows occupants to access all levels within a single apartment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To review the building's layout and design (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide firefighting hose lines for the entire building (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It is a decorative feature that does not compromise fire safety (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To inhibit fire from extending into the stairwells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They can be designed to utilize a limited plot and afford greater floor area (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>The open tread risers expose a greater area to fire and heat (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To devise a battle plan for the attacking firefighters (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It permits the use of spiral stairways as a component in the means of egress (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To access the fire from the lowest level (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It may not provide direct access to the fire (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To keep the hose from slipping back down onto the floor (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To ensure firefighters encounter the fire on the same floor or on an upper floor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide an alternate means of egress. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>1911 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They are prone to degradation due to atmospheric air and climate conditions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It may delay fire operations, and the fire may expand greatly. (B)</p> 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?

<p>It allows for a secondary means of egress. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Every 5 years (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They provide an alternate means of access to the fire area or the floor above. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To meet OSHA requirements (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Fire-proof (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>On the C side, or the rear of the building. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To highlight the exit paths during an emergency (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It may be prone to degradation due to atmospheric air and climate conditions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Every 5 years (C)</p> 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?

<p>It was overloaded with people trying to escape. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To evaluate the structural integrity of the fire escape stairway (A)</p> 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?

<p>They were installed as a secondary means of egress. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Because it may obstruct the SCBA equipment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To document the findings of the examination (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It requires regular examinations of fire escape stairways (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Comply with both the minimum egress requirements and the building code that applied at the time of construction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of emergency stop buttons on escalators?

<p>To stop the escalator motors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Truss (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To be used as a stairway during an emergency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Car rails (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To evacuate people quickly during an emergency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>Having a good working knowledge of escalator operations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It provides information about the building's layout and design (B)</p> 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?

<p>To shut down the power to the escalators during an emergency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>The risk of injury from moving stairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique feature of destination control elevator systems?

<p>Floor selection is chosen from a lobby keypad for a specific floor destination (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide emergency personnel with access to the elevator system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It reduces the risk of entrapment and injury during firefighting operations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>ASME A17.1 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>It provides a guide for emergency personnel responding to elevator emergencies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>They can travel vertically and horizontally without the need for cables (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To demonstrate the feasibility of cableless elevator systems (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To ensure that elevator systems are designed with firefighter safety in mind (D)</p> 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?

<p>To improve safety and accessibility for firefighters and emergency personnel (B)</p> 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?

<p>It reduces the risk of injury or entrapment during firefighting operations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>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 (B)</p> 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?

<p>To highlight the last exit door onto a public way (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>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 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To easily maneuver around equipment, low-hanging objects, and other obstacles (D)</p> 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?

<p>Photoluminescence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To develop a city standard for the installation of photoluminescent exit path markings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To show where the exit path markings should be placed for stairwells, obstructions within a stairwell, intermediate and final exit doors, and signage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

<p>To provide minimum requirements for photoluminescent exit path markings in high-rise buildings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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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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