Utilize existing non-compliant stairs for proposed addition?

[Mech]

2018 IEBC

A second floor is being added to an existing building. Chapter 11: Additions dictates compliance with the 2018 IBC for new construction. IBC 1009.1 requires 2 accessible means of egress when more than one means of egress is required. One new stairs is proposed which will meet accessibility requirements for egress.

An existing fire wall would allow use of a horizontal exit onto an existing floor; however, the existing stairs egressing from the existing floor are greater than a 7" rise.

Can the existing non-compliant stairs be used as a part of the horizontal exit for the new second floor or must a second compliant stairs be provided?

Thanks!

 

[steveray]

Where did the existing stairs go? Tough without a drawing...

 

[Mech]

We don't really have a drawing yet.

The existing stairs connects the existing first and second floors on the west side of the existing fire wall and will remain. A second floor is proposed on the east side of the fire wall above the existing east side first floor. The existing east side roof is about 35 ft above finished floor, so the second floor can be added without altering the roof. One new stairs and a new elevator are proposed to access the proposed second floor. The elevator will not be used for egress and will most likely never be used at all as the martial arts participants prefer to use stairs instead of an elevator.

On one hand, the east side second floor is an addition, so egress should comply with the IBC. On the other hand, once occupants pass through the fire wall, they have exited the building, although they are in an existing building with non-conforming stairs.

 

[steveray]

Agree with it or not...not sure that 2021 IEBC has that language...Mod to a newer code?