What Is Fire Escape Staircases | Types of Fire Escaping Stairs | What Is the Importance of Fire Escape in the Building | What Are the Fire Staircase Requirements
The High rise buildings should have a minimum of two staircases and fire escape and it should be connected to the public areas and the common areas on the floors or ground.
The route towards the fire escape stairs should be free from any type of obstruction.
The fire escape staircase shall not be taken into consideration while calculating the number of staircases for the building.
The entrance which is provided to the fire escape shall be separate and removed from the internal staircase.
The door which leads a way towards the fire escape staircase should be made from the fire-resistant material.
The fire escape staircase should have handrails of height not less than 1 metre.
The fire escape staircase should be located such that it should have one side of the external wall which has a large opening for the exit.
The spiral fire escape staircase should not be less than 1.5 metres in diameter and should have adequate headroom.
All the fire escape staircase should be directly connected to the ground.
Fire escape staircase should have straight flight not less than 25 metre in width and 25 cm treads and risers not more than 19 cm.
The use of a spiral staircase should be limited to low occupant load and a building height of 9 meters.
The main staircase and the fire escape staircase shall be continuous from the ground floor to the terrace level.
Building Codes and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local building codes and regulations regarding fire safety and emergency egress. These codes dictate specific requirements for stair dimensions, materials, handrails, landing areas, and more.
Location and Placement: Identify the most appropriate location for the fire escape staircase. It should be easily accessible from all areas of the building and should provide a direct path to a safe area outside. Consider factors such as building layout, proximity to exits, and ease of navigation.
Engage a Professional: It is essential to consult with a licensed architect or structural engineer who specializes in fire escape design. They will assess the specific requirements of your building and ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations.
Design and Permitting: Work with the architect or engineer to create a detailed design for the fire escape staircase. This design should consider factors such as the number of floors, building occupancy, maximum capacity, and egress paths. Obtain the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities before beginning construction.
Structural Considerations: Evaluate the structural integrity of the building to determine if any reinforcements or modifications are needed to support the fire escape staircase. The design should account for the additional load imposed by the staircase and its occupants.
Minimum Width: Residential fire escape staircases should typically have a minimum width of 36 inches (91 cm) to allow for the safe passage of occupants during an emergency evacuation.
Treads and Risers: The tread depth and riser height of the stairs should conform to local building codes. Commonly, tread depths range from 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm), and riser heights range from 7 to 8.25 inches (18 to 21 cm). Uniformity in these dimensions is crucial for safe and comfortable climbing.
Handrails: Handrails are required on both sides of the staircase to provide stability and support for users. The height of handrails is typically set between 34 and 38 inches (86 to 96 cm) above the nosing of the treads.
Visual Inspection: Conduct regular visual inspections of the entire fire escape staircase to identify any signs of damage, wear, or deterioration. Look for issues such as rust, corrosion, loose or missing components, cracked steps or treads, and damaged handrails or guardrails.
Cleanliness: Keep the fire escape staircase clean and free from debris, leaves, or other obstructions that may impede evacuation or cause slip hazards. Regularly sweep or hose down the stairs and landings to maintain a clear pathway.
Structural Stability: Check for any signs of structural instability, such as sagging, bending, or movement of the staircase. Ensure that all connections, bolts, and fasteners are secure and tightened appropriately.
Step and Tread Condition: Inspect the condition of the steps or treads. Look for signs of wear, cracks, or loose sections. Repair or replace any damaged steps promptly to prevent tripping hazards.