When is an Elevator Required to be on Emergency Backup power in a Building? Understanding IBC Section 1009.4

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Elevators are essential for accessibility, but in emergencies, especially during power outages, they can become life-critical systems. That’s why the International Building Code (IBC) mandates backup power for certain elevators used as accessible means of egress.

IBC Section 1009.4 specifies when an elevator must be part of the accessible means of egress system and requires it to be connected to an emergency or standby power source. The section applies when an elevator is used to meet the requirements of IBC 1009.2.1, typically in buildings where accessible floors are four or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.

Means of Egress :

A safe and clear path that allows people to move from any part of a building to the outside. It includes three parts:

  1. Exit Access – the path inside the building leading to an exit

  2. Exit – the protected route, like a stairwell or corridor

  3. Exit Discharge – the path from the exit to the outside, such as a sidewalk or street

Accessible Means of Egress 

A safe and clear path designed for people with disabilities to leave the building and reach a safe place outside, such as a public sidewalk or street.

When Is an Elevator Required for Means of Egress?

Under Section 1009.2.1, an elevator is required to be part of the accessible means of egress in buildings where a floor is located four or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.

Key Requirements:

  • At least one elevator must be provided as part of the accessible means of egress.

  • That elevator must comply with Section 1009.4 (which outlines features like standby power and emergency operation).

  • The elevator must serve all floors that are four or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.

Exception (Based on Sprinkler System)

This elevator requirement is not mandatory if the building is protected throughout by a fully automatic sprinkler system that complies with either:

  1. Section 903.3.1.1 – NFPA 13 system (standard full-coverage commercial sprinkler system), or

  2. Section 903.3.1.2 – NFPA 13R system (residential sprinkler system for low-rise residential occupancies).