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2025 GROUP -1
1. NBC Guidelines for Staircase Design in Auditoriums
🔢 Occupant Load Calculation
Occupant load factor for auditoriums:
0.6 m² per person for seating areas.
Count the maximum number of seats for the total load.
🚪 Exit Width Calculation
According to NBC:
Exit width=Occupant load×Unit width factor
Unit width factor:
0.5 m per 100 persons for staircases.
0.6 m per 100 persons for ramps or horizontal exits.
🪜 Riser & Tread Dimension
Maximum riser height: 150 mm (6 inches)
Minimum tread width: 300 mm (12 inches)
The slope of staircases should not be steeper than 1:2.
🚨 Number of Staircases
At least 2 staircases for up to 500 people.
1 additional staircase for every 500 people beyond that.
📏 2. Newfort’s Rule of Thumb for Auditoriums
Newfort suggests:
1 staircase for every 300 seats for smooth crowd flow.
Exit routes should not be longer than 30 m for any person to reach a staircase or exit.
Separate service staircases for backstage and technical areas.
🔢 3. Example Calculation
Let’s calculate for an auditorium with 1200 seats:
Step 1: Calculate Occupant Load
Seating area: 1200 seats. Occupant load: 1 person per seat → 1200 people.
Step 2: Calculate Exit Width
Using the NBC exit width formula:
Exit width=(1200×0.5)/100 =6.0 m (total exit width)
Step 3: Determine Number of Staircases
Each staircase should be at least 1.5 m wide.
To accommodate 6.0 m of total exit width:
6.0/1.5=4staircases (minimum)
Step 4: Calculate Riser & Tread Count
Floor height: 3.6 m
Riser height: 150 mm (0.15 m)
Number of risers:
3.6/0.15=24 risers
Tread count:
24−1=23
Tread width: 300 mm → staircase run = 23 × 0.3 = 6.9 m.
✅ Final Summary
For a 1200-seat auditorium:
Width of stairs:
Passenger load: Calculate based on the seating capacity and expected peak
traffic.
Peak traffic assumption: Often taken as 20–30% of the total audience capacity
moving within a 5-minute period — especially for exits post-event or
intermissions.
Waiting time: Ideally, waiting time should be capped at 30–40 seconds.
Lift capacity: Lifts can range from 13-person lifts (1000 kg) to 21-person lifts
(1600 kg), depending on the auditorium’s size.
The NBC formula for calculating the number of lifts:
𝑁=(𝑃×𝑇/𝐶×𝑅)
Where:
N = Number of lifts needed
P = Total audience capacity
T = Peak traffic percentage (usually 20–30%)
C = Lift capacity (number of persons per lift)
R = Round trips per hour (usually 80–100 for high-speed lifts)
🎟️ 2. Newfort’s Method:
Newfort’s approach simplifies this by using rules of thumb:
1 lift for every 300–400 seats if the auditorium spans multiple floors.
Ensure at least 1 service lift for backstage or technical support areas.
Large auditoriums (1000+ seats) often require at least 2 passenger lifts plus 1
service lift.
🔢 Example Calculation:
Let’s say an auditorium has:
1200 seats
Peak traffic rate of 25%
Lifts with a capacity of 15 persons
90 round trips per hour
Using NBC’s formula:
𝑁=(1200×0.25)/(15×90)
𝑁=300/1350
≈0.22
Rounding up, you’d need at least 1 lift — but most designs would push for 2 lifts
to ensure smooth flow during high-traffic times like intermissions and exits.
To calculate the number of lifts (elevators) needed for a hotel,
you can use the guidelines provided by the National Building Code
(NBC) and Newfort's book on hotel planning. Let’s break it down
step by step:
🚀 1. NBC Guidelines:
NBC recommends calculating lift requirements based on the following:
Passenger handling capacity: Determine the peak traffic load, often taken as 10–
15% of the hotel’s population moving in a 5-minute period.
Waiting time: Ideally, waiting time should not exceed 30–40 seconds.
Lift capacity: Standard lifts have capacities ranging from 450 kg (6 persons) to 1600
kg (21 persons).
The formula is:
𝑁= (𝑃×𝑇)/(𝐶×𝑅)
Where:
N = Number of lifts needed
P = Total population to be served (usually guest rooms × average guests per room)
T = Peak traffic percentage (10–15%)
C = Lift capacity (number of persons)
R = Round trips per hour (usually about 80–120 for high-speed lifts)
🏨 2. Newfort’s Method:
Newfort’s approach focuses on:
200 rooms
2 guests per room on average
Peak traffic rate of 12%
Lifts with a capacity of 10 persons each
100 round trips per hour
Using NBC's method:
𝑁=(200×2×0.12)/(10×100)
𝑁=48/100=0.48
Rounding up, you’d need at least 1 passenger lift — but to account for service lifts
and redundancy, most hotels would go for 2–3 lifts.
In architectural design, especially for hotels, the planning of ramps
is crucial for accessibility. In India, the *National Building Code
(NBC)* of India outlines guidelines that must be adhered to while
designing ramps in buildings, including hotels. The purpose of ramps
is to provide access to people with disabilities, the elderly, or anyone
who has difficulty using stairs.
1. *Ramp Slope*:
- The recommended slope for ramps is *1:12* (i.e., for every 12 units of horizontal
distance, the ramp rises 1 unit vertically).
- A maximum slope of *1:8* is permitted in some cases for very short ramps or where
the required slope cannot be achieved.
2. *Ramp Width*:
- The minimum width of a ramp should be *1.2 meters* for accessibility, ensuring it is
wide enough for wheelchairs or individuals with mobility aids.
- Ideally, the width should be *1.5 meters* or more to provide better maneuverability,
especially in high-traffic areas.
3. *Landing*:
- The ramp must have level landings at the top and bottom to allow users to rest
and change direction if needed.
- The length of the landing should be *at least 1.5 meters* to accommodate turning
or rest for wheelchair users.
- For long ramps, intermediate landings should be provided at regular intervals,
typically every *9 meters* of ramp length.
4. *Handrails*:
- Handrails should be provided on both sides of the ramp to support users,
particularly the elderly or disabled.
- The handrails should be *between 0.75 meters and 1 meter* in height.
- Handrails should be continuous, with no gaps, and should be easy to grip for
individuals with disabilities.
5. *Surface Finish*:
- The surface of the ramp should be non-slip and firm. Materials like terrazzo or
concrete with a rough texture are commonly used.
- The finish should also be such that it ensures safe navigation in both wet and dry
conditions.
6. *Turning Spaces*:
- If the ramp changes direction, a *turning space* of at least *1.5 meters by 1.5
meters* should be provided to allow easy maneuvering.
7. *Clearances*:
- Ensure that there are no obstacles along the ramp path.
- A *clear headroom height* of at least *2 meters* should be maintained throughout
the ramp length.
8. *Signage*:
- Ramps must be clearly marked with appropriate signage, indicating their purpose for
accessibility. This could include tactile paving, color contrasts, and symbols for visually
impaired individuals.
2. *Parking*:
- Designated parking spaces for disabled guests should be located close to the ramp,
ideally in accessible areas such as near the entrance.
3. *Aesthetic Integration*:
- While functionality is crucial, ramps should also blend aesthetically with the overall
hotel design. For instance, using materials and finishes that match the hotel's theme
while maintaining accessibility.
- The slope ratio required by NBC is 1:12. So, the length of the ramp required would be:
Thus, the ramp must be *12 meters long* to maintain a slope of 1:12.
These guidelines ensure ramps are functional, safe, and comply with the principles of
universal design, making hotels more accessible for all guests.
In the design of *auditoriums, providing accessible ramps is essential for
compliance with architectural standards and building codes, especially for
individuals with disabilities, elderly people, or those with mobility challenges.
The **National Building Code (NBC) of India*, 2016, provides guidelines for
the design of ramps to ensure accessibility in such spaces.
### 3. *Landings*:
- *Level landings* are essential at the top and bottom of the ramp. The landing provides a
resting area for wheelchair users and allows them to turn if needed.
- *Length of landings* should be a minimum of *1.5 meters*.
- For ramps longer than 9 meters, *intermediate landings* should be provided at regular
intervals (usually after every 9 meters of ramp length), and each landing should have a length
of at least *1.5 meters* for easy maneuverability.
### 4. *Handrails*:
- Handrails must be provided on both sides of the ramp for user safety.
- The handrails should be between *0.75 meters and 1 meter* in height, with a continuous,
smooth surface that is easy to grip.
- They should extend *30 cm beyond the top and bottom* of the ramp to provide additional
support for users at the start and end of the ramp.
### 8. *Signage*:
- *Accessible ramps* should be clearly marked with signage to ensure they are easily
identifiable.
- Braille signage and tactile paving at the top and bottom of the ramp should be included
for visually impaired users.
- The signage should indicate the direction and purpose of the ramp, such as "Wheelchair
Access" or "Accessible Entrance."
Thus, the ramp required to overcome a 1-meter rise in the auditorium should be at least *12
meters long*.
Incorporating escalators into auditorium designs requires
adherence to specific guidelines to ensure safety, efficiency, and
compliance with established standards. Both the National Building
Code (NBC) of India, 2016 and Neufert's Architects' Data provide
valuable insights into these requirements.
Inclination: Escalators should have an inclination between 30° and 35° to ensure
user safety and comfort.
Width: Standard escalator widths are 600 mm, 800 mm, and 1000 mm. The
choice depends on the expected passenger traffic and building type.
Handrails: Handrails must be provided on both sides of the escalator for user
support and safety.
Speed: The recommended speed for escalators is 0.5 meters per second (m/s)
to balance efficiency and safety.
Landing Platforms: Adequate landing spaces should be provided at both entry
and exit points of the escalator to facilitate smooth passenger movement.
It's important to note that while escalators enhance vertical circulation, they are
not considered substitutes for ramps or elevators when it comes to accessibility
for individuals with disabilities. The NBC mandates the inclusion of ramps and
elevators to ensure universal accessibility.
Width: The book recommends escalator widths of 600 mm, 800 mm, and 1000
mm, aligning with NBC standards.
Inclination: An inclination angle of 30° is suggested to provide a comfortable and
safe user experience.
Step Dimensions: Standard step widths are 600 mm, 800 mm, and 1000 mm, with
a step height (rise) of 200 mm and a step depth (tread) of 400 mm.
Capacity: The capacity of an escalator depends on its width and speed. For
instance, a 1000 mm wide escalator operating at 0.5 m/s can handle
approximately 4500 persons per hour.
Headroom: A minimum headroom clearance of 2.3 meters is required above the
escalator steps to ensure user safety.
Balustrades: Escalators should be equipped with balustrades on both sides,
typically 900 mm in height, to prevent falls and provide support.
Incorporating escalators into hotel designs requires adherence
to specific guidelines to ensure safety, efficiency, and
compliance with established standards. Both the National
Building Code (NBC) of India, 2016 and Neufert's Architects' Data
provide valuable insights into these requirements.
Width: The book recommends escalator widths of 600 mm, 800 mm, and
1000 mm, aligning with NBC standards.
Inclination: An inclination angle of 30° is suggested to provide a comfortable
and safe user experience.
Step Dimensions: Standard step widths are 600 mm, 800 mm, and 1000 mm,
with a step height (rise) of 200 mm and a step depth (tread) of 400 mm.
Capacity: The capacity of an escalator depends on its width and speed. For
instance, a 1000 mm wide escalator operating at 0.5 m/s can handle
approximately 4500 persons per hour.
Headroom: A minimum headroom clearance of 2.3 meters is required above
the escalator steps to ensure user safety.
Balustrades: Escalators should be equipped with balustrades on both sides,
typically 900 mm in height, to prevent falls and provide support.
There seems to be a misunderstanding regarding escalators and accessibility
requirements in the National Building Code (NBC) of India, 2016. While escalators
are useful for general movement within buildings, they are not considered an
accessibility feature for persons with disabilities, elderly individuals, or people with
mobility impairments.
Key Points Regarding Accessibility & Escalators:
Escalators Are Not a Substitute for Ramps or Elevators
The NBC does not recognize escalators as an accessibility solution because they
cannot be used by wheelchair users or individuals with severe mobility
impairments.
Instead, the NBC mandates ramps and elevators for ensuring accessibility.
Escalator Design Standards in NBC 2016 (Part 8, Section 5)
Inclination: Typically between 30° and 35°.
Width: Standard widths of 600 mm, 800 mm, and 1000 mm.
Handrails: Must be provided on both sides.
Speed: Usually set at 0.5 m/s for safety.
Landing Space: Adequate landing should be provided at entry and exit points.
Mandatory Accessibility Features for Auditoriums (NBC 2016)
Ramps: Minimum 1.2 m wide with a slope not steeper than 1:12.
Elevators: Required in buildings with multiple floors to ensure accessibility.
Handrails & Tactile Indicators: Essential for guiding visually impaired individuals.
Seating Provisions: Wheelchair spaces should be designated within the
auditorium.
1. RAMP
These are used to allow wheeled vehicles such as trolleys, wheelchairs and
buggies to change levels
A ramp when provided should not have a slope greater than 1 in 20 or
maximum of 1 in 12 for short distance upto 900mm
Each ramp shall have at least 1800mm of straight clearance at the bottom
At least one entrance usable by individuals in wheelchairs shall be on a
level that would make the elevators accessible
1. Width of a ramp:
It is determined according to type and intensity of use. One way travel
requires a minimum width of 900mm clear, whereas two-way travel needs
1500mm. Where turns occur at landings adequate space for manoeuvring
wheelchairs must be provided.
2.INTERNAL STAIRCASE:
4 All assembly buildings having area more than 500sqm on each floor shall
have a minimum of two staircases
The minimum width for a staircase in any assembly building shall be 1500
mm
The formula for most staircases of twice the rise plus the going lies between
600 and 630mm will give a suitable relationship
The rise should not exceed 190mm, and the going should not be less than
250mm
• The top of the handrail should be between 900 and 1000mm above the
pitch line
The minimum headroom in a passage under the landing of a staircase and
under the staircase hall be 2.2m
capacity /
load shaft size car size door pit
Type person/kg mm mm
mm mm
general purpose
goods lift , electric
13/1000 2100 x 2100 1400 x 1800 1400 1500
traction ( speed ;
0.5/0.63/1 m/s)
heavy duty goods , 26/ 2000 2600 x 2900 1700 x 2000 1700 1500 - 1800
electric traction 26/2000 2900 x 2500 2000 x 2100 1800 1500 - 1800
1. ELEVATORS
Location:
Passenger lifts should be within a reasonable walking distance from the
furthest part of the floor area served (say. 70 m maximum) and, where they
are the only or main lifts near the entrance. The location of goods and
service lifts will depend on their function, but they should not open into
passenger lift lobbies or public areas
• Planning a passenger lift:
Cul-de-sac or recessed lobbies, are essential to get the maximum
performance from lift groups. Clearly, having called for lift service the
waiting passengers should not have to walk further than necessary to the
responding lift car, and should not be obstructed by passers-by.
capacity /
load shaft size car size door pit
Type person/kg mm mm
mm mm
general purpose
goods lift , electric
13/1000 2100 x 2100 1400 x 1800 1400 1500
traction ( speed ;
0.5/0.63/1 m/s)
heavy duty goods , 26/ 2000 2600 x 2900 1700 x 2000 1700 1500 - 1800
electric traction 26/2000 2900 x 2500 2000 x 2100 1800 1500 - 1800
3. VERTICAL CIRCULATION:
.ESCALATORS:
Escalators are required for continuous mass transportation of people. The standard
dimensions or various depths of an escalator are prescribed in the adjoining table
Transportatio 8000 -
5000 - 6000 7000 - 8000
n 10000
Angle of inclination of an escalator from the horizontal shall not exceed 30deg,
but for risers not exceeding 6m the angle of inclination is permitted to be
increased up to 35deg
• In accordance with a worldwide standard, the width of the step to be used is
60cm (for one person), 80cm (for one-to-two people width) and 100cm (for two
people width). A
100cm step provides ample space for carrying goods Calculation of length in plan
for an escalator:
With 30deg escalator = 1.732 storey height
With 35deg escalator = 1,428 storey height
The landing area of escalators shall have a surface that provides a secure foot
hold for a minimum distance of 0.85 m measured from the roof of the comb feeth
FIRE SAFETY NORMS BY THE NATIONAL CODE OF INDIA
Every building shall be so constructed, equipped, maintained and operated
as to avoid undue danger to the life and safety of the occupants from fire,
smoke, fumes or panic during the time period necessary for escape.
b. Capacity of exits
The unit of exit width, used to measure the capacity of any exit, shall be
500mm.
A clear width of 250mm shall be counted as an additional half unit.
Clear widths less than 250mm shall not be counted for exit width
In an assembly building (convention center), the capacity per storey per
unit width of exit of stairways, ramps and doors is 40, 50 and 60 respectively
The travel distance to an exit from the dead end of a corridor shall not
exceed 30m in case of assembly building
c. Doorways
No exit doorway shall be less than 1000mm in width except assembly
buildings where door width shall not be less than 2000mm. Doorways shall
not be less than 2000mm in height
e. Horizontal exits
For buildings more than 24m in height, refuge area of 15sqm or an area
equivalent to 0.3sqm per person to accommodate the occupants of two
consecutive floors