Commentary;
"This section specifies the conditions where an exterior ramp or stairway can be used as a required exit. Exterior exit stairways are not permitted for Group I-2 since quick evacuation of nonambulatory patients from buildings is impractical. Some of the patients may not be capable of self-preservation and, therefore, may require assistance from the staff. The period of evacuation of nonambulatory patients could become lengthy.
With the exception of outdoor stadiums (see Section 1026.1), exterior ramps or stairways are not allowed to be a required exit in buildings that exceed six stories or 75 feet in height due to the hazard of using such a ramp or stairway in poor weather. Some persons may not be willing to use such a stair due to vertigo. When confronted with a view from a great height, vertigo sufferers can become confused, disoriented and dizzy. They could injure themselves, become disoriented or refuse to move (freeze). In a fire situation, they could become an obstruction in the path of travel, possibly causing panic and injuries to other users of the exit."
Francis
