Your Safety is our Priority

Building and fire codes at local, state, and federal levels are critical in ensuring fire escape safety. The International Fire Code (IFC) provides a detailed framework for these regulations, emphasizing the protection of public health, safety, and welfare against fire hazards. In 2011, the IFC was significantly revised with a focus on fire escape safety. A key change was the increased focus on maintenance, requiring fire escape systems to be inspected, painted, and certified by qualified professionals every five years. This amendment addresses the deteriorating condition of many fire escapes, ensuring they remain safe and functional in emergencies.

Although the International Fire Code (IFC) issues updated guidelines, their implementation by local governments is inconsistent. Numerous municipalities face delays in revising their building and fire codes, with some updates taking more than ten years. Such delays can result in a discrepancy in fire escape safety standards, making buildings vulnerable to hazards. Even in the absence of legal infractions, an antiquated code might not reflect the latest safety improvements.

Having an emergency fire escape, especially in multi-story homes or businesses is mandatory in most, if not all, building code regulations. Not only do these buildings have an internal staircase that is intended for use of emergency when elevators are unsafe, such as in the event of an internal fire, but they must also have external fire escape stairs in order to stay within safety codes. Regulations for fire escape stairs state that they must only be used in emergency situations and not for storing or recreational use. This applies to the balcony emergency ladder as well as internal and external fire exit stairs in businesses. The fire escape stair regulations are put in place to ensure that all homes and businesses are following a standard, proven set of rules and regulations to keep the public safe. This holds all parties equally accountable in the chance that emergency ladders or fire stairs are not used properly and there are consequences.

For emergency fire ladders and staircases, homeowners and business proprietors must consider several factors to maintain them and ensure they meet code requirements. Conducting fire escape inspections is vital to identify necessary maintenance to guarantee safety and compliance.

When evaluating your fire escape system’s safety, there are a few things you should focus on. First, look closely at the fire escape steps and railings. These components should be rust-free and appear connected. Make note of any rusted parts or sections that look like they are structurally compromised. Next, look for any instances of missing or flaking paint.

While you may think a well painted fire escape system is for aesthetics, it is an important part of maintaining a safe fire escape system. Due to the nature of fire escape systems a fresh coat of paint helps to ensure water and air do not allow the steel of the fire escape to rust. Another potential issue is water damage at the points where the fire escape is fixed to the building's exterior walls. Water infiltration can compromise not only the fire escape's integrity but also the building's structure. Therefore, it's advised to seal all points of attachment to the building with hydraulic cement or silicone to prevent such issues.

Most fire escapes consist of flat steel bars that are either bolted or welded together, which are then affixed to a metal frame. When inspecting your fire escape system, be vigilant for any gaps in the bars or deterioration of the paint. Examine the connections and bolts for signs of rust or flaking paint. Document any irregularities and arrange for a professional fire escape inspection.