What is the minimum width, in inches, for egress stairways?

The minimum width for egress stairways is 44 inches. This dimension is grounded in safety codes, particularly those defined by the International Building Code (IBC), which aims to ensure that adequate space is available for occupants to exit a building swiftly and safely in emergencies.

The requirement for a minimum width of 44 inches allows for efficient two-way traffic during egress, accommodating the potential for multiple people using the stairway at once. The width also helps to reduce the risk of congestion and improve overall accessibility for individuals who may have mobility issues or those helping others during an evacuation.

Wider stairways, such as those exceeding the minimum requirement, may be specified for buildings that anticipate high occupancy loads or unique conditions; however, 44 inches serves as the standard baseline for safety in egress stairway design.