1003.3.4 Clear width.

Protruding objects shall not reduce the minimum clear width of accessible routes.

1003.4 Floor surface.

Walking surfaces of the means of egress shall have a slip-resistant surface and be securely attached.

1003.5 Elevation change.

Where changes in elevation of less than 12 inches (304.8 mm) exist in the means of egress, sloped surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), ramps complying with Section 1012 shall be used. Where the difference in elevation is 6 inches (152.4 mm) or less, the ramp shall be equipped with handrails or floor finish materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.

   Exceptions: At locations that are not required to be accessible by Chapter 11:

      1.   A single step with a maximum riser height of 7 inches (177.8 mm) is permitted for buildings with occupancies in Groups F, H, R-2, R-3, S and U at exterior doors.

      2.   A step with a single riser or a stair with two risers and a tread is permitted where the risers and treads comply with Section 1011.5, the minimum depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and not less than one handrail complying with Section 1014 is provided within 30 inches (762 mm) of the centerline of the normal path of egress travel on the step or stair.

      3.   A step is permitted in aisles serving seating that has a difference in elevation less than 12 inches (304.8 mm) provided that the risers and treads comply with Section 1029.13 and the aisle is provided with a handrail complying with Section 1029.15.

Throughout a story in a Group I-2 occupancy, any change in elevation in portions of the means of egress that serve nonambulatory persons shall be by means of a ramp or sloped walkway.

1003.6 Means of egress continuity.

The path of egress travel along a means of egress shall not be interrupted by a building element other than a means of egress component as specified in this chapter. Obstructions shall not be placed in the minimum width or required capacity of a means of egress component except projections permitted by this chapter. The minimum width or required capacity of a means of egress system shall not be diminished along the path of egress travel.

1003.7 Elevators, escalators and moving walks.

Elevators, escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component of a required means of egress from any other part of the building.

   Exceptions:

      1.   Elevators used as a component of an accessible means of egress in accordance with Section 1009.4.

      2.   Elevators permitted to be used for occupant self-evacuation pursuant to Sections 403.5.2 and 403.6.2.