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What is NYC BC § 407.5.1?

Quick Answer

This section mandates the provision of refuge areas within each smoke compartment to accommodate occupants and care recipients from adjoining compartments. The size requirements are specified based on the number of care recipients and other occupants. Applies to building owners responsible for compliance with fire safety regulations.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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407.5.1 Refuge area.

BC § 407.5.1

Refuge areas shall be provided within each smoke compartment. The size of the refuge area shall accommodate the occupants and care recipients from the adjoining smoke compartment. Where a smoke compartment is adjoined by two or more smoke compartments, the minimum area of the refuge area shall accommodate the largest occupant load of the adjoining compartments. The size of the refuge area shall provide the following: 1. Not less than 30 net square feet (2.8 m 2 ) for each care recipient confined to bed or stretcher.

2.Not less than 6 square feet (0.56 m 2 ) for each ambulatory care recipient not confined to bed or stretcher and for other occupants. Areas or spaces permitted to be included in the calculation of refuge area are corridors, sleeping areas, treatment rooms, lounge or dining areas and other low-hazard areas.

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