Which aspect of building design does the term "egress" concern?

Egress specifically refers to the means of exit from a building, particularly in the context of ensuring safe evacuation during emergencies such as fires, earthquakes, or other hazardous situations. This includes all designated exit routes, such as doors, stairs, and corridors, which must be designed and maintained in compliance with safety codes to facilitate rapid and safe movement away from danger.

The importance of egress in building design cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the safety and well-being of occupants. Proper egress planning includes considerations such as the width of exit routes, the number of exits required based on occupancy load, and visibility during emergencies.

Other aspects mentioned in the choices, such as utility access, façade design, and accessibility for disabled individuals, address important elements of building design but do not specifically pertain to the concept of egress. Utility access focuses on how services like water and electricity can be accessed and maintained, façade design relates to the building's external appearance, and accessibility features ensure that all individuals, including those with disabilities, can navigate the building. However, none of these areas are centered on the safe exit pathways critical for emergency situations, which is the essence of egress in building design.