ship’s ladders shall not be used as an element of a means of egress. ship’s ladders shall be permitted provided that a required means of egress stairway or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a means of egress is not required DRAWING 62. The clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm) PHOTO 63.
Exception: ship’s ladders are allowed to be used as an element of a means of egress for lofts, mezzanines and similar areas of 200 gross square feet (18.6 m²) or less that do not provide exclusive access to a kitchen or bathroom.