§ 18-242. Refuge area.

(a)

Generally. A required refuge area for buildings in underground spaces shall have enclosing walls of four-hour fire resistive construction. The entrance and exit shall be through a vestibule. Doors to both the vestibule and to the refuge areas shall have a 1½-hour fire resistive rating and be provided with closing devices. No other openings shall be permitted in the walls of the refuge area.

(b)

Vestibule size. The vestibule shall have minimum dimensions of 44 inches (1118 mm) in width and 72 inches (1829 mm) in direction of travel.

(c)

Vestibule ventilation. The vestibule shall be provided with an exhaust fan for the purpose of removing any smoke which might be admitted during entry from the street. Such exhaust shall empty into the street in order to make the refuge area as smoke proof as possible.

(d)

Utilities. Emergency lighting, ventilation and communication systems shall be provided for the refuge area, to be available in case of emergency.

(Ord. No. 040477, § 1, 8-12-04; Ord. No. 071193, § 1, 1-3-08; Ord. No. 120375, § 1, 5-24-12)