Question 1

What is the Egress standard?

Accepted Answer

The Egress standard defines the minimum requirements a window must meet to be considered an emergency exit, especially in case of fire. An Egress-compliant window allows a person to exit quickly and unaided, and emergency services to enter easily if needed. In Quebec, these requirements come from the Construction Code and primarily apply to bedrooms.

Question 2

Why is the Egress standard essential?

Accepted Answer

During a fire, doors can become impassable in seconds due to smoke, heat, or structural collapse. A window then becomes the only possible escape route. A non-compliant window might be too small for an adult to pass through, too high to reach, blocked by its mechanism, or require tools to open. The Egress standard aims to eliminate these risks.

Question 3

In which rooms is the Egress standard mandatory?

Accepted Answer

The Egress standard is mandatory in all bedrooms without exception. An exception applies if the bedroom already has a patio door, garden door, or any door leading directly outside, as this door acts as the primary escape route.

Question 4

What are the technical requirements of the Egress standard?

Accepted Answer

The Egress standard requires a minimum clear opening area of 3.77 square feet (0.35 m²), with minimum dimensions of 15 inches by 15 inches on each side. The window must also open easily from the inside without tools, keys, or special knowledge.

Question 5

What types of windows comply with the Egress standard?

Accepted Answer

Casement windows are among the best options for meeting the Egress standard due to their large clear opening. Double-hung windows can also comply if they are larger and their mechanism allows for sufficient clear opening. Basement sliders, if large enough (typically 60 in x 30 in), can also be compliant. Awning windows and 'climbing over' windows are generally not compliant.

Question 6

What is the maximum height for the bottom of an Egress window from the floor?

Accepted Answer

The bottom of the window must not be more than 44 inches from the floor to ensure accessibility for children, the elderly, or people with reduced mobility.

Fenêtres Modulo

Fenêtres Modulo