What is the maximum egress capacity allowed for security turnstiles with a clear passage of less than 32 inches?

The maximum egress capacity allowed for security turnstiles with a clear passage of less than 32 inches is established by fire safety codes and guidelines which are designed to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies. Specifically, NFPA guidelines indicate that openings with a clear width of less than 32 inches typically provide a restricted egress capacity.

For turnstiles or other openings that do not meet the minimum width requirements, the calculated capacity is lower than for wider egress routes. In this case, the established maximum of 50 people reflects the need to ensure that, during an emergency evacuation, individuals can move through these narrow passages without undue delay or congestion. This capacity takes into account both the physical limitations presented by the turnstile and the need for rapid egress to protect occupants in case of a fire or other emergencies.

The capacity values are determined based on safety standards that consider factors like the width available for movement and the potential for bottlenecks in egress routes, making the 50-person limit an appropriate figure for narrow passageways.