An egress window is a type of window that is installed in a basement or below-grade level of a building, typically used as an emergency exit in case of fire or other emergencies. Egress windows are usually larger than standard basement windows and are designed to provide an opening that is large enough for a person to climb out of.
In the context of basement bedrooms in Ontario, egress windows are particularly important for safety reasons. In Ontario, the Building Code requires that any basement bedroom must have at least one egress window that meets specific requirements. These requirements include:
– The window must have a minimum width of 380mm (15 inches) and a minimum height of 550mm (22 inches).
– The window must have a minimum net clear opening of 0.35 square meters (3.77 square feet).
– The bottom of the window must not be higher than 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) above the floor.
– The window must be designed to be easily opened without the use of tools or keys.
– The window must have a ladder or steps that can be easily accessed from the window well to allow for safe egress in an emergency.
These requirements are designed to ensure that occupants of a basement bedroom have a safe means of escape in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Without an egress window, occupants could become trapped in the basement and be at risk of serious injury or death.
In terms of measurements, the minimum net clear opening of an egress window in Ontario must be at least 0.35 square meters, and the bottom of the window must not be higher than 1.5 meters above the floor.