7.8.2.50                 EXITS:

  1.             The facility shall have at least two (2) approved exits, that do not involve windows and which are remote from each other.
  2.             Facilities with ten (10) or more residents shall have each exit clearly marked with lighted signs having letters at least six (6) inches high and at least three-quarters (3/4) of an inch wide.  Exit signs shall be visible at all times.
  3.             Facilities with three (3) or fewer residents shall have a flashlight that is immediately available for use in lieu of electrically interconnected emergency lighting.
  4.             Exits shall be clear of obstructions at all times.
  5.             Exits, exit paths, or means of egress shall not pass through hazardous areas, garages, storerooms, closets, utility rooms, laundry rooms, bedrooms, or spaces subject to locking.
  6.             For facilities with four (4) or more residents, sliding doors are not acceptable as a required exit.  EXCEPTION:  Assisted living facilities with three (3) or fewer residents may have sliding doors as required exits.
  7.             When the yard gate(s) is part of the exit access and is locked, the gate shall be connected to the fire protection system and release upon activation of the fire/smoke system or shall have the ability to be unlocked at the gate site.

[7.8.2.50 NMAC – Rp, 7.8.2.51 NMAC, 1/15/2010]