Today, we're continuing our discussion on NFPA 101's 

Life Safety Code.

View our blog - https://mightylinetape.com/a/blog/understanding-exit-access-the-crucial-path-to-safety-nfpa-101

Specifically, we'll be covering the Means of Egress component known as Exit 

Access, which is the path leading to an Exit.

And in a later podcast, we'll be talking about the remaining two components, 

Exit, and Exit Discharge. So stay tuned!



NFPA defines Exit Access as "That portion of a means of egress that leads from

an occupied area to a building exit." 

Here are two examples of Exit Access: One, corridors that are commonly 

separated by one or two-hour fire rated wall construction. And, two, walking 

surfaces located within the occupancy that allow for unobstructed travel, and 

provide slip-resistance under foreseeable conditions.

It is also essential that exit travel distances comply with the Life Safety Code. 

These factors should include occupancy load; nature of the fire load; occupancy 

risk. Whether or not materials such as hazardous chemicals are involved in 

storage, as well as other significant factors.

Building construction and the number of floors also play a significant role in 

determining exit travel distances.

Other building systems that can impact travel distance may include detection 

and alarm systems and automatic sprinkler systems. So be sure to consult the 

Life Safety Code for those details as well.

The key point to understand is that Exit Access must be clearly designated, and 

delineated, and understood by employees and users of the building. 

Also, safe routes of egress need to be included in emergency plans, and ideally 

illustrated so that employees are able to see, review, and understand paths of 

travel to exits.

Equally important is that there be planning, preparedness, and drills so that 

everyone understands the safe means of egress from buildings.



And finally, delineating aisles intended for emergency egress is an essential part

of the emergency planning process, and importantly, will be greatly appreciated

by all employees and building occupants.

We look forward to seeing you again in our future edition of Mighty Line

Learn more at https://mightylinetape.com/