Which type of doors must swing in the direction of egress travel when serving an area with an occupant load of 50 or more persons?

The requirement for doors to swing in the direction of egress travel in areas with an occupant load of 50 or more persons is primarily grounded in safety regulations. Pivot or side-hinged swinging doors are designed to quickly and efficiently allow occupants to exit a space during an emergency. Their swing direction directs movement towards the nearest exit path, which is crucial for preventing congestion and facilitating a faster evacuation.

In contrast, other door types, such as sliding doors and revolving doors, may not provide the same level of ease in egress. Sliding doors typically require a lateral movement that can be obstructed, especially in crowded conditions. Bi-fold doors can complicate egress as they may not open wide enough to accommodate many individuals simultaneously. Revolving doors also pose a challenge because they can significantly slow down the evacuation process, and some models do not allow for quick or straightforward exit in the event of an emergency.

Thus, the operation and design of pivot or side-hinged swinging doors make them the suitable choice for ensuring safety and compliance with egress requirements in spaces with a substantial number of occupants.