Area of Refuge Calculator

Calculate area of refuge requirements for accessible means of egress per IBC Section 1009 and ADA standards.

Building Type

Number of Stories Above Grade

Stories Below Grade

Floor Area per Story (sq ft)

Occupant Load per Floor

Number of Exit Stairways

Building Features

Fully Sprinklered Has Elevator Has Accessible Ramp to Grade High-Rise (75+ ft)

Estimated Wheelchair Users per Floor Default: 1 per 200 occupants minimum

Condition	Refuge Required?
Sprinklered building with 2-way comm	Stair landing OK
Exit to public way at grade	Not required
Horizontal exit provided	Horizontal exit OK
Occupancy < 50	May not be required

Area of Refuge Components

30" x 48" clear floor space for each wheelchair position. Must not reduce required egress width.

Dedicated phone or intercom connecting to fire command center or 24/7 monitoring location.

Tactile signage with Braille, posted instructions, and illuminated exit signs identifying refuge area.