Which of the following is NOT one of the three major components of means of egress?

• A. Exit access
• B. Exit
• C. Fire barrier
• D. Exit discharge

Answer: (C)

Means of egress refers to the continuous path people use to get from an occupied space to safety. It is made up of three major parts: exit access, the portion that leads to an exit (hallways, corridors, doors that bring you toward an exit); the exit itself, the actual means to leave (doors, stairways, ramps); and exit discharge, the area beyond the exit to the exterior or a safe area. A fire barrier is a fire-resistance-rated wall that helps contain fire and separate spaces; while it supports overall life safety, it is not one of the three major components of means of egress. Therefore, fire barrier is the correct choice for NOT being part of the three major components.