Section 1003.4 requires that circulation path surfaces of the means of egress be “slip-resistant,” but no previous definition, method of measurement, quantitative threshold, nor general principles to help the specifier, end-user and code official were provided. Given the Code’s previous lack of criteria for the loosely used term “slip-resistant,” materials are sometimes inappropriately specified causing accidents to occur in circulation paths of the means of egress. This can be especially dangerous for emergency responders who are entering a building for the first time, potentially under conditions with water and limited visibility (smoke).

The term “slip resistant” and the criteria for walkway hard surface flooring used in circulation paths of the means of ingress/egress has now been clearly defined. The published national standard, ANSI A326.3, sets forth a quantitative minimum threshold, means of measurement, and general principles regarding slip resistance for hard surface flooring and is widely specified for hard walkway surfaces including ceramic tile, VCT, LVP, polished concrete, terrazzo, and natural stone. This standard now provides clarity, safety, measurement definitions, methods and transparency.

IFC 2021

Means of Egress: An accessible means of egress, as defined by the IBC, is a “continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any point in a building or facility that provides an accessible route to an area of refuge, a horizontal exit, or a public way.” Where more than one means of egress is required from any accessible space, each accessible portion of the space must be served by at least two accessible means of egress. Accessible spaces can be served by one accessible means of egress only where the IBC permits one means of egress.

CHAPTER 10 - MEANS OF EGRESS

NEW CODE UPDATES INCLUDE

[BE] 1003.4 Slip-Resistant Surface

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

[BE] 1003.5 Elevation Change

Any change in elevation in portions of the means of egress that serve non-ambulatory persons shall be by means of a ramp or sloped walkway .

[BE] 1012.7.1 Ramp Surface

The surface of ramps shall be of slip-resistant materials that are securely attached.

[BE] 1030.12.1 Walking Surface

The surface of aisles, stepped aisles and ramped aisles shall be of slip-resistant materials that are securely attached.