exterior exit stairway 1027.3 (2020 BCNYS)

[PETER CIRILLO]

Can an areaway be used as an exterior exist stair?

 

[classicT]

I suppose it depends on the size of the areaway. How large is it, and would the space be large enough to provide open airflow to prevent the accumulation of smoke. The challenge as I see it is in Sec. 1027.3.

2020 NYBC1027.3 Open Side​

Exterior exit stairways and ramps serving as an element of a required means of egress shall be open on not less than one side, except for required structural columns, beams, handrails and guards. An open side shall have not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2) of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor level and the level of each intermediate landing. The required open area shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent floor or landing level.

 

[PETER CIRILLO]

I suppose it depends on the size of the areaway. How large is it, and would the space be large enough to provide open airflow to prevent the accumulation of smoke. The challenge as I see it is in Sec. 1027.3.

2020 NYBC1027.3 Open Side​

Exterior exit stairways and ramps serving as an element of a required means of egress shall be open on not less than one side, except for required structural columns, beams, handrails and guards. An open side shall have not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2) of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor level and the level of each intermediate landing. The required open area shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent floor or landing level.

I suppose it depends on the size of the areaway. How large is it, and would the space be large enough to provide open airflow to prevent the accumulation of smoke. The challenge as I see it is in Sec. 1027.3.

2020 NYBC1027.3 Open Side​

Exterior exit stairways and ramps serving as an element of a required means of egress shall be open on not less than one side, except for required structural columns, beams, handrails and guards. An open side shall have not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m2) of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor level and the level of each intermediate landing. The required open area shall be located not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent floor or landing level.

Stair and areaway pictured below

 

[classicT]

Any overhangs or openings directly above the stairwell? An elevation is likely to provide more detail.

Also, what occupancy is this?

 

[PETER CIRILLO]

Any overhangs or openings directly above the stairwell? An elevation is likely to provide more detail.

Also, what occupancy is this?

No elevations just yet but, there will be some window openings above the well. It is a small A3 (O.L. = 18 people) occupancy.
Yes, agreed, BCNYS 1023.7 is what is throwing me for a loop here.

 

[classicT]

It is a small A3 (O.L. = 18 people) occupancy.

Keep in mind Sec. 303.1.1; you will actually likely be a Group B occupancy given such a low OL.

2020 NYBC 303.1.1 Small Buildings and Tenant Spaces​

A building or tenant space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons shall be classified as a Group B occupancy.