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Interpretation #5840

Original Request

  • Date: August 28, 2008
  • Requested By: Tom Hogarth
  • Requester E-Mail: hogarth@palmbeach.k12.fl.us
  • Code Version: 2004
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description: Building
  • Chapter: 10
  • Section: 1009
  • Topic: Clear space at stair landing

  • Question: Is it the intent of 1009.4 (or any related section)to provide for a minimum clear depth of landing in the direction of travel at the top of a straight run of stair beyond the swing of the door that opens over the landing?

Answer on 08/28/2008 at 9:26 AM

No, this section does not state a minimum dimension for
the run (depth) of the landing. 1009.4, requires the
landing width be as wide as the required stair width. It
also says the landing in the direction of travel must be
equal to the width of the stair, but then goes on to say
that on a straight run the landing does not have to exceed
48" in the direction of the path of travel.

Commentary:

Also refer to Code Section 1008.1.5 Landings at doors. Landings shall have a width not less than the width of the stairway or the door, whichever is the greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a required dimension by more than 7 inches (178 mm). When a landing serves an occupant load of 50 or more, doors in any position shall not reduce the landing to less than one- half its required width. Landings shall have a length measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). Exception: Landing length in the direction of travel in Group R-3 as applicable in Section 101.2 and Group U and within individual units of Group R-2 as applicable in Section 101.2 , need not exceed 36 inches (914 mm).