Which of the following can be considered an exit?

An exit is defined as a means of egress that provides a safe path out of a building during an emergency. Exterior stairways fit this definition because they lead directly outside the building and provide a safe escape route. These stairways are often designed to be accessible during an emergency, making them a vital component of a building's exit strategy.

Open hallways can serve as pathways to exits but do not qualify as exits themselves, as they do not lead directly outside without passing through additional exits. Windows, while they can offer potential escape routes, are not officially recognized as exits because they might not meet safety and accessibility standards required for egress. Interior offices, similarly, are part of the building's layout and do not provide a direct way out; they often require traversing additional spaces to reach an exit.

Thus, the designation of exterior stairways as an exit is supported by their function in facilitating direct escape from a building, playing a pivotal role in ensuring occupant safety during emergencies.