In what direction should exit doors swing in the case of egress?

Exit doors should swing outward in the case of egress to ensure safe and efficient evacuation during emergencies. This is based on safety regulations and building codes designed to facilitate a quick exit in potentially hazardous situations, such as fires or other emergencies.

When doors swing outward, they do not obstruct the flow of people exiting the building, allowing for a clear and direct path to safety. If exit doors swung inward, they could create bottlenecks during an evacuation, making it difficult for individuals to leave quickly, especially if the crowd becomes panicked or if individuals are attempting to exit simultaneously.

Outward-swinging doors can also be easier to operate for individuals who may have difficulty managing the door in the midst of a chaotic situation, as pulling open a door usually requires less coordination than pushing one inward. Additionally, this design helps to ensure that the doors can be opened without needing to move backward, which is critical in crowded conditions.

In summary, the requirement for exit doors to swing outward is a crucial safety feature that enhances egress capability during emergencies, ensuring that all individuals can evacuate effectively and as quickly as possible.