Enkeltutgang

Enkeltutgang is a Norwegian term that translates literally to “single exit.” It is used in the context of building safety and fire protection to specify the requirement that a certain space or area must have at least one designated exit route available for occupants to evacuate safely in case of emergency. The concept is grounded in fire safety engineering and is a key component of the Byggteknisk forskrift (BTF), the Norwegian building code that sets out criteria for structural design, fire safety, and occupancy.

The term is applied most commonly to residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, but may also be relevant in public venues such as cinemas or sport facilities. An enkeltutgang must be designed so that it is unobstructed, clearly marked, and accessible to all occupants, including those with limited mobility. Requirements cover the minimum width of the exit corridor, the size and clearance of the exit door, the presence of automatic fire doors, and the installation of clear signage or directional lighting. The code also dictates structural fire resistance for the door and its frame, as well as a fire door’s ability to remain closed during a fire event.

Planning for an enkeltutgang involves coordination with fire engineers, architects, and local building authorities. Successful compliance is verified by fire safety inspections during construction and at regular intervals thereafter. In practice, a single exit may be combined with multiple smaller access points across a building, but each individual space (for example, a dormitory room or a workshop) must have at least one such exit. Failure to meet the enkeltutgang requirements can result in penalties, mandatory remedial work, or denial of occupancy permits.