Another landing question

[bill1952]

Would you allow a single step between two stair landings? This happens to be an assembly aisle stair, but I think per code it's same as any stair.

 

[steveray]

1003.5 Elevation change. Where changes in elevation of
less than 12 inches (305 mm) exist in the means of egress,
sloped surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than
one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope),
ramps complying with Section 1012 shall be used. Where
the difference in elevation is 6 inches (152 mm) or less, the
ramp shall be equipped with either handrails or floor finish
materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.
Exceptions:
1. Steps at exterior doors complying with Section
1010.1.4.
2. A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a
tread is permitted at locations not required to be
accessible by Chapter 11 where the risers and
treads comply with Section 1011.5, the minimum
depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and not
less than one handrail complying with Section
1014 is provided within 30 inches (762 mm) of the
centerline of the normal path of egress travel on
the stair.
3. A step is permitted in aisles serving seating that
has a difference in elevation less than 12 inches
(305 mm) at locations not required to be accessible
by Chapter 11, provided that the risers and
treads comply with Section 1030.14 and the aisle
is provided with a handrail complying with
Section 1030.16.

 

[bill1952]

Exception 2 would seem to allow it.

 

[bill1952]

I seem to be failing at buying the commentaries to the IBC, so maybe Monday, but is there any commentary on this section and its exceptions?

 

[steveray]

Exception 2 would seem to allow it.

Only if it is not required to be accessible...

 

[bill1952]

Not required to be accessible.

I like the Life Safety Code annex for same requirement: don't do this unless you have to, be very careful, especially in public areas, and extra attention to lighting, handrails, and marking is warranted.