Fundamental requirements apply to all buildings intended for human occupancy.
These requirements are summarized here and are addressed in more detail later in this
module.
- There shall be exits sufficient for prompt and convenient escape in an emergency.
- Design of exits and other safeguards should not depend solely on any single safeguard to
protect life.
- Building structures shall not cause danger to occupants during the period necessary for
escape.
- There shall be no locks or devices to prevent emergency egress except in specialized
facilities that have an attendant on-duty, such as mental, penal, or corrective
institutions.
- Means of egress shall be clearly visible and understandable to physically and mentally
capable occupants.
- Any doorway or passageway not constituting an exit or way to reach an exit, but could be
confused as such, shall be clearly marked "Not an Exit."
- Adequate and reliable illumination shall be provided for all exit facilities in every
building or structure equipped for artificial illumination.
- When a fire may not provide adequate warning, fire alarm facilities shall be provided,
where necessary, to warn occupants of the existence of fire.
- Provisions for emergency egress shall not create hazards under normal occupancy
conditions.
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