Code concerning items in a Rated stairwell

[calhebb]

I am looking for the specific IBC or Fire code that prohibits anything in the stairwell that doesn't directly support the stairwell. I know things like handrails, stair treads and even the stand pipe for a sprinkler system are permitted as items that directly support the stairwell, but I need to find the code that stated nothing else is permitted. This is a Rated exit for a commercial building.

Thank you in advance...

Cal

 

[steveray]

1022.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 1022
through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections
1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose
that interferes with its function as a means of egress.

 

[calhebb]

Maybe I can elaborate a bit more to see what the consensus it. The idea was to put a XL LED screen that covers one entire wall at the upper landing. In practice, the screen would just be on the wall and therefore not change egress, but I see 2 issues. 1) The screen would still be added to the stairwell wall and it doesn't directly support the stairwell (it is an unnecessary addition). 2) The screen would encourage some congregation at the upper landing...

So, basically the argument is that the screen does not with the function as an egress..

 

[steveray]

What is the flame spread on the TV?

 

[mtlogcabin]

1003.3.3 Horizontal projections.
Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finished floor shall not project horizontally more than 4 inches (102 mm) into the circulation path.

Depends on the tv and how it is mounted. The flat screen on my desk is 3 inches thick

 

[jj1289]

1023.1 states in part "An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path."

I would interpret this to mean that a TV could not be added and it does not serve the MOE or circulation path.

 

[calhebb]

1023.1 states in part "An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path."

I would interpret this to mean that a TV could not be added and it does not serve the MOE or circulation path.

I agree 1000%

 

[Yikes]

1023.1 states in part "An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path."

I would interpret this to mean that a TV could not be added and it does not serve the MOE or circulation path.

calhebb, you did not say whether the stairway was an "exit access stair" (1019) or an "exit stairway" (1023).

If it is part of "Exit Access" but not the "Exit", then there may be some more leeway on this issue.
Also, if you're really worried about congregating at the stairwell, note that there's nothing that prohibits a stairwell to have windows with a stunning view. Maybe there's a scenario in which the power to the TV can be shut off in event of fire alarm?

 

[bill1952]

What if the display was providing emergency messages, for everyone or maybe just for people with visual impairments?

 

[Genduct]

calhebb, you did not say whether the stairway was an "exit access stair" (1019) or an "exit stairway" (1023).

If it is part of "Exit Access" but not the "Exit", then there may be some more leeway on this issue.
Also, if you're really worried about congregating at the stairwell, note that there's nothing that prohibits a stairwell to have windows with a stunning view. Maybe there's a scenario in which the power to the TV can be shut off in event of fire alarm?

Good Point, seems if the screen doesn't reduce the size of the stairs and hence the number of people it can handle, I can't believe that in an emergency situation, someone would stop to see an infomercial if the bldg was on fire.

 

[steveray]

You shouldn't need much direction once you are in the stairs...that's why we generally don't put exit signs in them.....