Survey of the Means of Egress Provisions in the Construction Codes of the City of New York

Forensic investigations of slip, trip, and fall incidents along the means of egress, and in particular on stairs, often prompt a review of the applicable codes and standards that were in effect at the time of construction, at the time of subsequent renovation, and/or at the time of the incident. Similarly, rehabilitation following a fire, flood, or collapse, as well as the change in building use, change in occupancy or some combination, often prompts a similar investigation of the applicable codes and standards. Often these may involve codes and standards from various editions. Navigating the various editions of the codes, construction parameters, and the changes in industry practices over time can be challenging. This paper aids designers, building officials, forensic engineers/architects, attorneys, and other professionals in that effort for construction within the City of New York. This paper surveys the Building Codes of the City of New York and its adopted reference standards. It is a guide for navigating the historical editions and for identifying the applicable provisions pertaining to construction parameters of the means of egress, and in particular stair treads and risers, handrails, and slip resistance.