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Interpretations Request Input

Original Request

  • Request ID: 8503
  • Requested By: Antonio Lopez
  • Requester E-Mail: alopez@insurewhs.com
  • Code Version: 2014
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter: 3
  • Section: 1029
  • Topic: Size of egress
  • Question: In a new construction home, does a bedroom window that is 37 X 47 meet egress requirements? As the code states opening minimum of 24 inches with exception of opening of 5 sqft. As in this case, the window would open to about 23.5 inches but would be at least 5 SQFT in total. Im just not clear.
  • Comment: None

Existing Interpretations and/or Declaratory Statements Related to this request

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Is it the intent of Section 1029 to prohibit any type of overhead roof or ceiling above an exterior deck or balcony adjacent to a emergency egress exit window even if there is clear open atmosphere (unenclosed) directly to a public way from the deck or balcony. And, the deck or balcony is below the fourth story. This section appears unclear to the meaning of "" open directly onto a public way or to a yard or court that opens onto a public way.""

Input Received:

Please note that the requestor is using the Building code section, not the residential code section in this discussion of a new home.
The Code requires a minimum net CLEAR opening of 24" high and a minimum net clear opening width of 20"; with the net clear opening dimensions being the result of normal operation of the opening. Total square footage of that net clear opening is 5.7 sq ft (5 sq ft if on grade level)
Comment - You have to meet all three minimum net clear openings - Height, width and opening for it meet the egress requirements.
Linda Patrick on 01/19/2021 at 1:13 PM
Just a second comment - I did verify this based on the 5th edition. LP
Linda Patrick on 01/21/2021 at 5:15 PM

Answer:

Please note that the requestor is using the Building code section, not the residential code section in this discussion of a new home. The Code requires a minimum net CLEAR opening of 24" high and a minimum net clear opening width of 20"; with the net clear opening dimensions being the result of normal operation of the opening. Total square footage of that net clear opening is 5.7 sq ft (5 sq ft if on grade level)
On 01/27/2021 at 7:23 PM

Commentary:

You have to meet all three minimum net clear openings - Height, width and opening for it to meet the egress requirements.

Comments on Draft:

looks Good
Linda Patrick on 01/27/2021 at 7:39 PM
I agree
Andrew Bruhn on 01/27/2021 at 7:57 PM
I agree; however, I think we should advise the requestor this is not means of egress but an emergency escape and rescue opening.
Joseph Belcher on 01/27/2021 at 8:18 PM
Agree
Robert Reading on 01/27/2021 at 9:29 PM
Agree with Belchers response
Larry Schneider on 02/10/2021 at 1:49 PM
Publish Draft Interpretation