Exit door under stairs

[Francis Vineyard]

2 Story office; grade level exterior exit door under stairs of 2nd story; does this violate section 1009.9.4 even if it's protected?

1009.9.4Enclosures under exterior stairways.

There shall be no enclosed usable space under exterior exit stairways unless the space is completely enclosed in 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. The open space under exterior stairways shall not be used for any purpose.

Francis

 

[Coug Dad]

How would a door to the outside from an exit stair enclosure violate the code?

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Does an exit under the exterior stairs considered as used for any purpose? Now come to think of all these exterior stairs that zig-zag from one exit to another; it must be okay.

Can have storage if it's protected; so what is any other purpose?

Francis

 

[Coug Dad]

Exit stair enclosures can be used for normal circulation. They cannot be used for storage, vending machines, smoking areas or other uses.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Coug Dad, it's not enclosed!

The section seems to say if you want to use the space then it shall be enclosed a minimum 1-hour protected. But if it's open then you can't use the space at all even if the understair is minimum 1-hour protected; correct?

Thanks for explaining

Francis

 

[cda]

Isn't there a prohibited opening section near stairs ??

 

[Builder Bob]

This section is designed to prohibit installation or use of products/appliances which may impede the use of the exterior means of egress. 9Such as HVAC units, Furnaces, electrical panels, etc.

 

[cda]

I was thinking about 1022.6 and 1022.1 Ibc 2009 edition

 

[codeworks]

i would think it's ok, it is basically exit discharge.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Thanks all; glad I'm not a Fire Marshal for this one.

Francis