What direction must exit doors swing?

Exit doors in nursing homes and similar facilities must swing outward to facilitate safe and efficient evacuation during emergencies. This is pivotal in ensuring that residents can exit quickly and without obstruction when there is a need to evacuate, especially in situations such as fires or other emergencies.

Outward-swinging doors allow for a larger exit path and minimize the risk of bottlenecks, as individuals can push against the door to exit rather than having to pull it open, which could be more difficult or even impossible if panic ensues or if individuals are clustered near the door. Additionally, outward-opening doors do not impede movement in narrow hallways during a hurried exit, allowing for a smoother flow of people leaving the building.

Regulations and standards in building codes typically mandate this design to enhance safety for all occupants of the nursing home. Properly designed egress routes, including the choice of door swing direction, are vital components of safety planning in any care facility.