N.Y. Multiple Residence Law § 59: Ventilation for shafts

§ 59. Ventilation for shafts. 1. There shall be provided in the roof

directly over each stair, fire-stair, dumbwaiter, elevator or similar

shaft which extends to or within one story of a roof, a ventilating

metal skylight of the cross-sectional area of such shaft. Such skylight

need not, however, exceed twenty square feet in area. Where an existing

skylight is smaller than the dimensions or area prescribed in this

subdivision, no structural change shall be required, but a ventilating

metal skylight fitting the existing opening in the roof shall be

sufficient. Every skylight shall be glazed with plain glass in the roof

of such skylight and shall be equipped with metal screens over and under

the skylight. In lieu of a skylight a window of the same area at the top

story shall be accepted.

2. Whenever there is a flooring of solid construction at the top of

any enclosed stair, fire-stair, elevator or similar shaft, openings

shall be left near the top of such shaft for ventilation. Such openings

shall provide at least two hundred eighty-eight square inches of

unobstructed ventilation and shall communicate directly with the outer

air, or be otherwise ventilated in accordance with the provisions of the

local building code.

3. It shall be unlawful to discharge into any such shaft any

inflammable or volatile gases, liquids or other thing or matter which

would endanger life.