In buildings with required accessible floors, what must the accessible means of egress include?

In buildings with required accessible floors, the accessible means of egress must include an elevator. This is crucial for compliance with accessibility standards, which aim to ensure that individuals with disabilities can safely exit a building during an emergency. Elevators provide a reliable means of vertical transportation for those who cannot use stairs, including individuals in wheelchairs or those with mobility impairments.

While ramps may also be included in accessible routes for certain scenarios, they do not typically substitute for an elevator in multi-story buildings where accessible floors are present. Stairways and fire escapes, while important for general egress, do not provide the necessary access for individuals who cannot navigate stairs. Thus, the requirement for an elevator is key to ensuring comprehensive accessibility in emergency situations.