Approximately 75 percent of fire victims die due to the toxic effects of smoke as it migrates throughout a building; oftentimes in areas far removed from the area of fire origin. Dependence on automatic fire sprinklers, without providing effective smoke control along paths of emergency egress, exposes occupants to unnecessary danger. Smoke sealed stairwells and hallways solve this problem. However, even smoke-sealed stairwells and hallways won’t do their jobs if not maintained. Below are seven things building managers must do to maintain tenant safety during a fire evacuation.
- Keep openings and egress paths clear — Sometimes, a stopgap solution to storage of excess supplies is to place them next to a door and stock them later. Safety can be affected since this may allow the spread of smoke and fire.
- Replace or repair broken or worn door hardware — Loose exits that could fail, corroded hinges that could snap, or worn levers that can catch on clothing should be replaced or repaired.
- Ensure proper fire rating on doors — Where necessary, replace damaged doors with doors that have proper fire ratings and never close out a project without an inspection and commissioning process.
- Replace broken door seals — A door that might close but not seal properly may allow smoke and fire to penetrate an opening much quicker.
- Maintain doors so that they close properly — A door that doesn’t close or that can’t be latched will not prevent the spread of smoke. Fixing a broken door can involve replacing a broken latch and adjusting hinges or could require closer repair or replacement.
- Ensure designated fire exits are clearly marked — If not, lives could be threatened, particularly in smoke-filled hallways.
- Conduct regular audits and inspections — The smallest infraction can endanger the safety of your occupants. An annual fire door and means of egress door inspection schedule is recommended.
