Which statement about stairway design in egress is correct?

• A. Stairs used as part of egress must be protected, fire-rated as required, have proper width, landing dimensions, and be clearly marked; in certain occupancies, stairways must be pressurized.
• B. Stairs must be decorative.
• C. Stairs must be colored red and have no air pressure requirements.
• D. Stairways do not need to be clearly marked.

Answer: (A)

Stairways used for egress are treated as protected routes that must be built to contain fire and smoke, provide safe passage, and be easy to find. They have to be enclosed or fire-resistance rated as required by the occupancy and fire separation rules, so flames and heat don’t spread into the stairwell. Their width and landing dimensions must meet the minimums based on how many people could be evacuating, ensuring enough space for movement and for turning or descending safely. Clear marking and lighting are essential so occupants can locate and use them, even in smoke conditions. In some occupancies, certain stairways must be pressurized to keep the stairwell tenable, preventing smoke from seeping in and assisting both occupants and responders. Decorative stairs, lack of proper marking, or ignoring air-pressure requirements would not meet the safety standards for means of egress.