An ____________ is a court or yard that provides access to a public way for one or more exits.

An egress court is defined as an outdoor space, such as a court or yard, that serves as a means of access to a public way or street for one or more exits from a building. This feature is typically designed to ensure that occupants have a safe and direct route to exit the structure during an emergency, fulfilling safety regulations and accessibility requirements.

Egress courts are essential in multi-story buildings where direct access to ground level may be obstructed by building design or layout. By providing an open area that connects building exits to the street or a public way, egress courts enhance the safety of occupants, offering a designated path to safety during emergencies.

The other options, such as area of refuge or emergency escape and rescue opening, refer to different safety features focused on providing safe spaces for occupants during emergencies or specific methods for escape, rather than facilitating a direct exit route. Occupant load pertains to the maximum number of individuals allowed within a space for safety and code compliance, which does not relate to access or egress directly.