What is defined as a means of exit during a fire or emergency?

Egress is defined as the act of exiting a building or space, particularly during a fire or emergency situation. It refers specifically to a safe route or means of leaving a location in order to ensure the safety of individuals. In emergency planning and safety protocols, establishing clear egress paths is crucial to provide occupants with quick and efficient ways to evacuate a building, minimizing risks during dangerous situations.

The term ingress refers to entering a place, which is the opposite of egress. Access generally refers to the ability to approach or enter an area, but it does not specifically pertain to exiting during emergencies. Evacuation encompasses the broader process of leaving a place, particularly under duress, but does not specifically define the routes or means of exit themselves. Therefore, egress is the most precise term related to the means of exit in the context of fire safety and emergencies.