Building Codes and Standards Flashcards

What is the minimum net clear opening area for an emergency escape and rescue opening above grade floor level under the IRC?

Answer: 5.7 square feet

IRC R310.2.1 requires 5.7 square feet net clear opening, reduced to 5.0 square feet for grade-floor openings.

What is the maximum sill height for an emergency escape and rescue opening measured from the finished floor under the IRC?

Answer: 44 inches

IRC R310.2.2 limits the bottom of the clear opening to no more than 44 inches above the floor.

Emergency escape openings under the IRC must have a minimum net clear opening height and width of:

Answer: 24 inches high and 20 inches wide

IRC R310.2.1 requires at least 24 inches of clear height and 20 inches of clear width.

A window well serving an egress window must have a minimum horizontal area of 9 square feet and project at least how far from the foundation?

Answer: 36 inches

IRC R310.4.4 requires a 9-square-foot well with a minimum horizontal projection and width of 36 inches.

A window well deeper than what depth requires a permanently affixed ladder or steps under the IRC?

Answer: 44 inches

IRC R310.4.4.1 requires a ladder or steps when the vertical depth of the window well exceeds 44 inches.

Under the IRC, where are smoke alarms NOT specifically required?

Answer: In the attached garage

IRC R314.3 requires smoke alarms in sleeping rooms, outside sleeping areas, and on each story, but not in garages, where nuisance alarms are common.

In new IRC construction, how must multiple smoke alarms within a dwelling unit be arranged?

Answer: They must be interconnected so activation of one activates all

IRC R314.4 requires interconnection so that one alarm activating sounds all alarms in the dwelling.