R322.3.7

Section R322.3.7 is titled 'Stairways and ramps' and covers requirements for flood-resistant construction. In coastal flood hazard zones, the requirement to build stairways and ramps which are below the lowest floor elevation, with open or partially open riser and guards, to break away where not the required means of egress, be retractable or able to be raised above the lowest floor elevation without affecting the means of egress system, and/or be designed and constructed to resist flood loads including transfer to the primary structure, as well as only being enclosed with walls designed to break away during flood conditions is established. The purpose of this section is to limit damage and loss to buildings and structures due to flooding, which are constructed in areas prone to such.

The model shows a stairway with partially open risers and guards, which is designed to resist flood loads and not transfer those loads to the main structure, and enclosing walls which will break away during a flood event.