Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

Does a double hung window with a minimum clear opening of 22 in. x 20 in. meet the requirements for an emergency escape window in a two family dwelling?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if it is made of tempered glass

4. Only if it has a screen

The correct answer is: No

To determine if a double hung window provides an adequate clear opening for emergency escape in a two-family dwelling, it's essential to refer to the code requirements for egress windows. The minimum clear opening requirements for emergency escape and rescue windows as stated in the code typically require a minimum width of 24 inches and a minimum height of 24 inches, with a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet. In this case, while the window measurement of 22 inches by 20 inches may provide a decent size, it falls below the required minimum dimensions for width and height, thus failing to sufficiently meet the criteria for an emergency escape window. Therefore, the window does not meet the necessary building codes for egress requirements in a situation where immediate escape is needed. The other choices regarding tempered glass or screens are irrelevant in this context because the primary issue is with the dimensions of the window itself.