3.5 Means of escape

Question 1

The capacity of an escape route is measured by

Answer 1

the number of persons per minute that can pass through the effective usable width (narrowest point) of the escape route.

Question 2

A width of at least 750mm can accommodate up to:

Answer 2

 80 people in higher risk premises  100 people in normal risk premises or  120 people in lower risk premises. An additional 75mm should be allowed for each additional 15 people (or part of 15).

Question 3

A width of at least 1050mm can accommodate up to:

Answer 3

 160 people in higher risk premises  200 people in normal risk premises or  240 people in lower risk premises. An additional 75mm should be allowed for each additional 15 people (or part of 15).

Question 4

Doors on escape routes should: 2

Answer 4

 open in the direction of escape  ideally be fitted with a safety vision panel.

Question 5

At least two exits should be provided if

Answer 5

a room/area is to be occupied by more than 60 people.

Question 6

Escape routes Suggested range of travel distance Where only a single route is provided

Answer 6

12m – Higher fire-risk areas 18m - Normal fire-risk areas 25m – Lower fire-risk areas

Question 7

Escape routes Suggested range of travel distance Where more than one escape route is provided

Answer 7

25m – Higher fire-risk areas 45m - Normal fire-risk areas 60m – Lower fire-risk areas

Question 8

Emergency light fittings should be positioned at or near to (i.e. within 2 metres horizontally): 9

Answer 8

 corridor intersections  each exit door  each change of direction (except on a stairway)  each stairway so that each flight is directly illuminated  changes of floor level  outside final exits  each fire alarm call point  portable fire-fighting equipment  exit and fire safety signs.

Question 9

Notices must be used, where necessary, to provide the following: 3

Answer 9

 instructions on how to use any fire safety equipment  the actions to be taken in the event of fire  help for the fire and rescue service, such as the location of sprinkler valves or electrical cut-off switches.