Antonio B
Registered User
IRC 2015 - Am I correct in understanding that spiral stairs now qualify as a primary means of egress from an upper level?
They fall within Section R311.7 as mentioned below in R311.4.
Some stairs within 311.7 are specifically excluded such as Alternating Tread Devices (R311.7.11).
However there is no specific exclusion mentioned for spiral stairs. Does that mean they are now included?
R311.4 Vertical Egress
Egress from habitable levels including habitable attics and basements not provided with an egress door in accordance with Section R311.2 shall be by a ramp in accordance with Section R311.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section R311.7.
R311.7.10 Special Stairways
Spiral stairways and bulkhead enclosure stairways shall comply with the requirements of Section R311.7 except as specified in Sections R311.7.10.1 and R311.7.10.2.
R311.7.11 Alternating Tread Devices
Alternating tread devices shall not be used as an element of a means of egress.
They fall within Section R311.7 as mentioned below in R311.4.
Some stairs within 311.7 are specifically excluded such as Alternating Tread Devices (R311.7.11).
However there is no specific exclusion mentioned for spiral stairs. Does that mean they are now included?
R311.4 Vertical Egress
Egress from habitable levels including habitable attics and basements not provided with an egress door in accordance with Section R311.2 shall be by a ramp in accordance with Section R311.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section R311.7.
R311.7.10 Special Stairways
Spiral stairways and bulkhead enclosure stairways shall comply with the requirements of Section R311.7 except as specified in Sections R311.7.10.1 and R311.7.10.2.
R311.7.11 Alternating Tread Devices
Alternating tread devices shall not be used as an element of a means of egress.