The minimum access code to an exit required by NFPA 101 is?

The minimum access code to an exit required by NFPA 101 is?

• A. 24 inches
• B. 28 inches
• C. 32 inches
• D. 36 inches

Answer: (B)

The rule focuses on ensuring the exit path has enough width for people to pass through safely during an evacuation. NFPA 101 sets a minimum clear width for an exit access doorway, which is 28 inches. This means any exit doorway must provide at least 28 inches of unobstructed opening to meet the standard. A doorway narrower than that would not comply and could create dangerous bottlenecks in an emergency. Doors wider than 28 inches, such as 32 or 36 inches, do meet the requirement and are also acceptable, but they exceed the minimum. A 24-inch opening is below the required minimum and would be noncompliant. In practice, many buildings use wider doors (often to accommodate accessibility needs), but the NFPA 101 minimum remains 28 inches.

The rule focuses on ensuring the exit path has enough width for people to pass through safely during an evacuation. NFPA 101 sets a minimum clear width for an exit access doorway, which is 28 inches. This means any exit doorway must provide at least 28 inches of unobstructed opening to meet the standard. A doorway narrower than that would not comply and could create dangerous bottlenecks in an emergency. Doors wider than 28 inches, such as 32 or 36 inches, do meet the requirement and are also acceptable, but they exceed the minimum. A 24-inch opening is below the required minimum and would be noncompliant. In practice, many buildings use wider doors (often to accommodate accessibility needs), but the NFPA 101 minimum remains 28 inches.