Interior exit stairways and ramps must be enclosed and must lead directly to:

Interior exit stairways and ramps are critical components of a building's means of egress, providing a safe route for occupants to exit in case of an emergency. The requirement for these stairways and ramps to be enclosed is primarily focused on maintaining a protected path that minimizes exposure to smoke and fire.

The appropriate destination for these exit pathways is to lead directly to the exterior of the building. This ensures that occupants can evacuate effectively and quickly reach a safe location away from the structure. Leading directly to the outside reduces the risk of occupants becoming trapped and allows for straightforward access to emergency services, which is crucial during an emergency situation.

Choosing the exterior of the building as the endpoint of exit stairways and ramps fulfills safety regulations and best practices in building design, aiming to protect life and provide efficient egress. Routes leading to other areas, like the interior common area or the basement, would be inadequate as they do not provide a direct escape from the building, and could potentially expose occupants to danger or complicate evacuation during emergencies.