Notausgang

Notausgang is the German term for an emergency exit, a marked passage or door that provides a safe egress from a building during emergency conditions such as a fire or other hazard. Emergency exits are designed to enable rapid evacuation and are distinguished from ordinary doors by their hardware, signaling, and regulatory requirements.

Regulatory context and design features vary by country, but most codes require Notausgänge to be clearly marked, illuminated, and kept free of obstructions. They typically have doors with hardware that allows immediate opening from the inside, such as a push bar or panic device, and may specify the direction of swing, minimum width, and fire-resistance ratings. Signage often follows international conventions, using the Notausgang designation or the corresponding pictogram to indicate the exit route.

Notausgänge can be interior or exterior. Interior exits commonly lead to stairwells or corridors that bypass occupied areas, while exterior exits open to a safe area outside the building. They are intended to be accessible to all occupants, including people with disabilities, and may incorporate accessibility features where required by law. In many jurisdictions, audible alarms or visual indicators accompany the exit system to assist during evacuations.

Maintenance and inspection are essential to ensure effectiveness. Doors and hardware must function reliably, lighting and signage must be visible, and pathways to the Notausgang must remain unobstructed. Regular drills and safety reviews are often part of building safety programs to ensure occupants can locate and use emergency exits promptly.