Naturaly Ventilated Fire Fighters Stair case

[ECEEG]

I am currently reviewing an existing building that has 3 escape stairs, one is presuurized and the other 2 are naturally ventilated, my question is what is the minimum area that should be left open in the walls for each floor in order for the escape stair to be safe, is it function of the stair floor area or the stair wall area? What is the reference of the NFPA that should be refered for this part.

Thanks,

 

[EnergyProfessional]

your building code or ASHRAE 62 has some references to natural ventilation (for parking decks etc.) This would be my first place to look. I assume your specific case won't be mentioned. If you are unsure how to classify the staircase, talk to whoever issues the permit.
(I was too lazy and am at home to look that up myself right now)

 

[msquared48]

Personally, I have never come across any naturally vented firefighters.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[desnov74]

This depends on occupancy and building type. Refer to the local building code, either NFPA 101 or IBC code.