If a walkout is not covered, what provision is required at the bottom of the walkout's stairway?

The correct answer is related to the requirement for adequate drainage at the bottom of a walkout stairway. In situations where a stairway leads directly to an area where water might accumulate, effective drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling near the entrance. When a walkout does not have coverage, it is particularly vulnerable to rain, melting snow, and other sources of water, which can create slippery and hazardous conditions. Proper drainage involves ensuring that water flows away from the stairway and does not create a hazard for individuals using the stairs.

While options like lighting, hand railing, and landing are important considerations in stairway safety and functionality, they do not specifically address the immediate concern of water drainage. Good lighting can enhance visibility, a hand railing provides support, and a landing gives a proper area to step safely onto; however, none of these features mitigate the risk of water accumulation at the base of the stairs in the absence of a covered walkout. Therefore, focusing on drainage is critical in ensuring the safety and usability of the area beneath the stairs.