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NYC Building Code

§ 408.5.1 — § 408.5.1

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What is NYC BC § 408.5.1?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the conditions under which floor openings within a housing unit are allowed without a shaft enclosure. The criteria include unobstructed observation by supervisory personnel, adequate means of egress capacity, a maximum height difference of 23 feet between cell tiers, and limited travel requirements for egress. Applies to building owners managing housing units.

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

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408.5.1 Floor openings.

BC § 408.5.1

Openings in floors within a housing unit are permitted without a shaft enclosure provided all of the following conditions are met: 1. The entire normally occupied areas so interconnected are open and unobstructed so as to enable observation of the areas by supervisory personnel; 2. Means of egress capacity is sufficient for all occupants from all interconnected cell tiers and areas; 3. The height difference between the floor levels of the highest and lowest cell tiers shall not exceed 23 feet (7010 mm); and 4. Egress from any portion of the cell tier to an exit or exit access door shall not require travel on more than one additional floor level within the housing unit.

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