Interpretation #6957

Published March 20, 2012

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Original Request

Code Version
2010
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
4
Section
403.5.1
Topic
hi-rise stair separation

Question

Is it the intent of section 403.5.1 to require, in all high-rise buildings, that a min. separation distance between exit stair enclosures be measured in a direct line between the nearest points of the enclosures, irrespective of the exit door locations, and that this requirement supercedes all other exit separation requirements in the code (ie: 1015.2.1 exceptions 1, 2 & 3)?

Answer Published 03/20/2012 at 10:28 AM

Yes, this is a specific requirement for high rise
construction.

Commentary

The provisions were part of the response to the problems noted in the Twin Towers collapse.