Exit obstruction

[Inspector 102]

We have a 2 story building where the second required stairway is not intended as an access to the second floor, exit only in emergency. At the bottom of the stairs, the powers to be want to place a cheap plastic chain across the opening with a small sign hanging indicating "exit only". I have indicated to them that this would be an obstruction of a required exit and prohibited by building and fire codes. Has anyone had situations like this where an acceptable barrier was provided. Cannot put a door here because of landing requirements. The plastic chain would be the cheapest available so that anyone could break through it if needed. Would you accept a freestanding sign on a post as indicated in 1003.3.2 (2006 IBC). Otherwise 1006.6 still applies.

 

[steveray]

Freestanding sign...yes, plastic chain outside manuvering and landing clearances for door with "opening" that would meet egress dimensions...yes....Full blockage...no

 

[cda]

Swing gate???

 

[Inspector 102]

Never even considered a swing gate at this location. Will review area. One problem is there is a ramp located on one side of the opening to meet 1003.5. Would this ramp prohibit the swing gate or does the landing provisions of 1008.1.5 not apply?

 

[steveray]

Swing gate would have to comply with manuvering clearances for doors in series methinks.... and that would eat up alot of real estate...

 

[mjesse]

Swing gate is fairly common, Ok by me provided it swings in the direction of egress travel

Chain - No way

Sign - Ok, but probably won't deter people from going up.

 

[fatboy]

Swing gate in direction of travel...........

 

[steveray]

Stair door is already going to be in the direction of travel......Gate will be tough to do...

 

[Frank]

Plastic chain with dog clips to obviously and easily opened should not be a problem

 

[zigmark]

It would seem that a sign adjacent to the stairs saying "employees or exit only" would be as equally effective as the the proposed solutions. How about a door/gate at the landing at the top of the flight of stairs?

ZIG