Section 1101 establishes that accessible means of egress must be provided throughout buildings, permitting persons with mobility, sensory, and cognitive disabilities to evacuate. Accessible routes must have firm, stable surfaces with slopes not exceeding 5 percent. Handrails guide visually impaired occupants along accessible routes. Stairways require handrails on both sides. Elevators provide vertical accessibility, with emergency descent capability. Areas of rescue assistance (refuge areas) provide safe waiting locations for persons who cannot use stairs during elevator-dependent evacuation. Exit signage must be tactile and luminescent for visibility.