Understanding the Basics of Accessible Means of Egress

Accessible means of egress ensures that all people, including those with disabilities, can safely evacuate buildings during emergencies. The 2010 ADA Standards reference the International Building Code (IBC) for most requirements, making this a coordinated approach between accessibility and life safety codes.

What is an Accessible Means of Egress?

An accessible means of egress is defined as "a continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any point in a building or facility that provides an accessible route to an area of refuge, a horizontal exit, or a public way." This definition comes directly from the IBC and emphasizes that the path must be unbroken and barrier-free from start to finish.

2010 ADA Standards, Section 106.5

Basic Requirements and Components

Primary Code Reference

The 2010 ADA Standards Section 207.1 states that means of egress shall comply with section 1003.2.13 of the International Building Code (2000 edition and 2001 Supplement) or section 1007 of the International Building Code (2003 edition). This means the ADA adopts the IBC's requirements rather than creating separate standards.

2010 ADA Standards, Section 207.1

Three Essential Components

An accessible means of egress consists of three distinct parts that work together:

Exit Access - The path from any location in a building to an exit

Exits - Doors to the outside, enclosed exit stairways, and horizontal exits

Exit Discharge - The path from an exit to a public way such as a street or alley

How Many Accessible Means of Egress Are Required?

The IBC requires at least two means of egress from all spaces and buildings with few exceptions. For accessible spaces:

• If one means of egress is required, it must be accessible

• If two or more means of egress are required, then two accessible means of egress are required

Some spaces may have only one means of egress if the travel distance is short and occupant load is low. For example, a business occupancy with no more than 30 occupants and a maximum exit access travel distance of 75 feet is permitted to have a single means of egress.

2010 ADA Standards, Section 207.1

Special Considerations for Multi-Story Buildings

Areas of Refuge

On floors above or below the level of exit discharge, accessible means of egress must lead to exit stairways, horizontal exits, or to elevators equipped with standby power. Areas of refuge are fire-resistance rated and smoke protected areas where those unable to use stairs can register a call for evacuation assistance and await instructions or assistance.

Areas of refuge are not required in facilities equipped with a supervised automated sprinkler system. The sprinkler system provides the necessary protection that makes these special areas unnecessary.

Elevator Requirements

In buildings with four or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge, at least one accessible means of egress must be an elevator with standby power and emergency signaling devices. These elevators are designed to remain operational even when regular electrical service is lost and are used by emergency responders for assisted rescue.

Technical Requirements

Width Requirements

An exit access in the ADA cannot be less than 36" wide, although the IBC typically requires it to be wider (48" minimum). The more restrictive requirement applies.

Stairway Requirements

Interior and exterior stairs that are part of a means of egress must comply with requirements in 2010 ADA Standards Sections 210 and 504. This includes specifications for:

• Uniform riser heights and uniform tread depths

• Handrails on both sides with specific height and extension requirements

• Proper nosing specifications

• Visual contrast recommended but not required

2010 ADA Standards, Sections 210 and 504

Signage Requirements

Signs for means of egress must comply with specific ADA requirements:

• Exit doors at exit passageways, exit discharge, and exit stairways must be identified by tactile signs complying with 703.1, 703.2, and 703.5

• Directional signs providing directions to accessible means of egress must comply with visual character requirements in 703.5

2010 ADA Standards, Section 216.4

New Construction vs. Alterations

The IBC requirements for accessible means of egress apply to new construction; accessible means of egress are not required to be added in alterations to existing facilities. However, when alterations do occur to stairs, handrails must be brought into compliance even if the stairs themselves don't need to be upgraded.

Platform Lifts

When platform lifts are permitted as part of an accessible means of egress, standby power must be provided. This ensures the lift remains operational during emergencies when regular power may be lost.

2010 ADA Standards, Section 207.2

Key Exceptions

The 2010 ADA Standards include two important exceptions:

1. Where means of egress are permitted by local building or life safety codes to share a common path of egress travel, accessible means of egress shall be permitted to share a common path of egress travel

2. Areas of refuge shall not be required in detention and correctional facilities

2010 ADA Standards, Section 207.1, Exceptions 1 and 2

Understanding accessible means of egress requires coordination between ADA accessibility requirements and building/fire codes. The goal is ensuring that everyone, regardless of disability, has a safe and reliable way to evacuate buildings during emergencies. The requirements create a comprehensive system that addresses the unique challenges people with disabilities may face during emergency evacuation while maintaining the overall integrity of the building's life safety systems.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney or consultant for advice tailored to your situation.