What is the minimum aisle width that should be maintained inside all buildings?

The minimum aisle width that should be maintained inside all buildings is designed to ensure safe and efficient movement of people, especially in the event of an emergency. An aisle width of 30 inches provides a reasonable balance between space efficiency and accessibility. This width allows individuals to navigate comfortably without obstruction while minimizing the risk of congestion.

Aisles narrower than this can lead to safety hazards, especially in crowded situations or during evacuations, as they may not accommodate wheelchair users or those with mobility aids. Additionally, building codes and regulations often specify such widths to comply with safety standards, ensuring that egress routes can handle the expected traffic.

In contrast, wider aisles like 36 inches or 42 inches may be beneficial in certain contexts, especially in high-traffic areas or for accommodating larger equipment or furniture, but 30 inches remains the minimum standard in many building codes to maintain safety without compromising space usability.