Exterior Exit Stairways in S-2 Occupancies

[Carmen Lopez]

Exterior exit stairways in S-2 Occupancy I have an existing marine/container terminal. Trucks 60 feet in length operate loading/unloading in a 3 story open platform (aprox. 210 feet by 65 feet). There is only one exterior exit stairway used to access each floor and as a means of egress. My interpretation would be:1. Based on NFPA 101-2009 Section 7.2.2.6.3 I would either:a. provide a secondary stair, then no protection neededb. provide a supervised automaitic sprinkler system, then no protection neededc. provide 1hr protection, 10 feet from open stair2. Based on NFPA 101-2009 - Sections 42.8.1.3 and 42.8.2.2.3:a. I interpret thisopen structure as an open parking structure (except there is no parking, only truck maneuvering), therefore can leave it unprotectedThank you for any information you can provide.View attachment 767

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[FM William Burns]

Based on NFPA 101-2009 Section 7.2.2.6.3 I would either:a. provide a secondary stair, then no protection needed

b. provide a supervised automaitic sprinkler system, then no protection needed

c. provide 1hr protection, 10 feet from open stair

In accordance with 7.2.2.6.3.1 (Correct)

2. Based on NFPA 101-2009 - Sections 42.8.1.3 and 42.8.2.2.3:a. I interpret thisopen structure as an open parking structure (except there is no parking, only truck maneuvering), therefore can leave it unprotected

Basically it is an open structure’s operating “platform” similar to what is seen in:

3.3.254.7* Open Structure. A structure that supports equipment and operations not enclosed within building walls.

A.3.3.254.7 Open Structure. Open structures are often found in oil refining, chemical processing, or power plants.

That’s how I would interpret it and classify the structure based on what was explained. Therefore it would not require protection other than fire resistive stair construction which it appears is there based on photo also see the access from roofs or other buildings section.

 

[Carmen Lopez]

Thanks again.

My other doubt is, if it would need a secondary means of egress, which I think it can remain with one stair since the travel distance permitted is 300' (NFPA 101 Table 42.8.2.6.1). Also in NFPA 88A 2009 Section 4.1.4, the vehicular ramp can be permitted to serve in lieu of the second means of egress. In this case the vehicular ramps are curved ramps, and each lead directly to the ground level. I think if they are correctly marked and identified can be used as a secondary means of egress, in case we need it. Thanks in advanced.

 

[FM William Burns]

I concur and sorry, thought there would be more exposure and opinion expressed...and again welcome to the forum.