Means of Egress
The continuous and unobstructed path of travel from any point in a building to a public way — exit access, exit, and exit discharge.
In Detail
Means of egress is the complete path of travel from any occupied point in a building to a public way (street, alley, yard). NFPA 101 defines three components: exit access (the portion leading to an exit, such as corridors and aisles), the exit itself (a protected path providing a way to the exit discharge, such as enclosed stairwells, exit passageways, or exterior doors), and exit discharge (the path from the exit to the public way). Requirements include minimum width, maximum travel distance to an exit, minimum number of exits per floor, illumination, exit signage, door hardware (panic hardware in assembly occupancies), and prohibition of obstructions. Means of egress violations are among the most serious fire code violations and are frequently cited during inspections. Regular assessment ensures occupant safety and code compliance.
Related Terms
NFPA 101
The Life Safety Code — the standard addressing building features that protect occupants during fire and similar emergencies.
Emergency Lighting
Battery-backed lighting systems that illuminate exit paths during power failures, required in all commercial buildings.
Fire Door Inspection
Annual inspection of fire-rated door assemblies to verify they will function properly to contain fire and smoke spread.
AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction)
The organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing fire codes and approving fire protection systems in a given jurisdiction.