Building Construction and Means of Egress Flashcards

Under the NYC Building Code, stair doors that are locked from the stair side must permit re-entry at least how often?

Answer: Every fourth floor

NYC requires re-entry floors at intervals of no more than four stories (or all doors to unlock on alarm).

What type of stair arrangement places two separate stairways in the same enclosure, crisscrossing each other?

Answer: Scissor stairs

Scissor stairs are two interlocking stairways in one shaft, separated by a fire-rated wall.

A fire tower is a stairway that is entered from the floor by way of what feature?

Answer: An open-air balcony or vestibule open to the outside

Fire towers are accessed through an outdoor balcony or vented vestibule that keeps smoke out of the stair.

A tenant keeps a stair door wedged open with a rubber stop for convenience. Why is this a violation?

Answer: Fire doors must self-close and latch to keep smoke and fire out of the stair

Propped stair doors defeat the stair enclosure and allow smoke to fill the exit route.

What information is typically posted on stairway identification signs at each floor landing?

Answer: Floor number, stair designation, re-entry information, and roof access

Stair signs tell occupants and firefighters where they are and whether they can re-enter or reach the roof.

Stair enclosures in a building four or more stories high generally require what minimum fire-resistance rating?

Answer: 2 hours

Codes require 2-hour rated shaft enclosures for stairs connecting four or more stories.

Doors in a 2-hour rated stair enclosure typically must carry what fire-protection rating?

Answer: 1½ hours (90 minutes)

Openings in 2-hour shaft walls are protected by 90-minute rated fire door assemblies.