Do fire escape stairs count as a means of egress?

Fire escape stairs are indeed considered as parts of a means of egress in relevant building codes and safety standards. A means of egress is defined as a continuous and unobstructed path of travel from any point in a building to a public way. This consists of three distinct parts: the exit access, the exit, and the exit discharge.

Fire escape stairs provide a crucial route for occupants to evacuate a building safely during an emergency, such as a fire. They are specifically designed to allow individuals to escape from upper levels to the ground safely and quickly. Therefore, the assertion that fire escape stairs do not count as a means of egress neglects their essential role in emergency planning and building safety.

The significance of fire escape stairs is highlighted in fire codes, which include provisions for their design, maintenance, and accessibility. They must meet specific structural and safety regulations to ensure they function effectively as a means of egress.

In summary, fire escape stairs are critical components of safety infrastructure in buildings, providing essential egress routes in the event of an emergency.