North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

For occupant loads serving egress, doors must swing in which direction?

1. Away from egress travel

2. With the egress travel

3. Any direction

4. Inward towards the room

The correct answer is: With the egress travel

When considering occupant loads and egress, it is essential for doors to swing in the same direction as egress travel. This design is critical for safety during emergencies, as it allows for a clear and unobstructed path for occupants to exit a building. If a door swings towards the direction of travel, it facilitates a smoother flow of people exiting, especially in panic situations where a high volume of individuals may be trying to evacuate simultaneously. Doors that swing with the egress travel also minimize the risk of bottlenecks and ensure that all individuals can exit quickly and safely. By following this requirement, buildings can better comply with safety codes and standards, which prioritize the welfare of occupants during emergencies. In contrast, doors that swing away from egress travel or inward towards a room may obstruct the flow of people leaving a space and can create dangerous situations during an evacuation. Thus, ensuring that doors swing in the direction of egress travel is vital for effective emergency evacuation planning.