What is the minimum net clear opening area of an emergency escape window on a second floor?
- 5.0 square feet
- 5.7 square feet
- 4.0 square feet
- 9.0 square feet
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B. 5.7 square feet
The net clear opening is at least 5.7 square feet, large enough for a firefighter with equipment. Grade-floor and below-grade openings may be 5.0 square feet. Nine square feet is the minimum area of a window well, not of the window.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 3 (Building Planning): emergency escape and rescue openings; minimum opening area
What is the highest the bottom of the clear opening of an emergency escape window may be above the floor?
- 44 inches
- 36 inches
- 48 inches
- 60 inches
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A. 44 inches
The bottom of the clear opening may be no more than 44 inches above the floor so that occupants, including children, can climb out. A higher sill defeats the purpose of the opening even if the window is large enough.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 3 (Building Planning): emergency escape and rescue openings; sill height
What is the minimum clear width of the required egress door of a dwelling, measured with the door open 90 degrees?
- 28 inches
- 32 inches
- 30 inches
- 36 inches
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B. 32 inches
The required egress door provides at least 32 inches of clear width between the face of the door and the stop, and at least 78 inches of clear height. A 36-inch-wide door leaf is what normally achieves this; 36 inches is the nominal door, not the required clear width.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 3 (Building Planning): means of egress; egress door