Fire Exits

[mick607]

Do all Fire Exits require ramped access/egress or is there an exception based on the height of the existing lip.  IE Can we be retrospective in recommending a ramp?

[nearlythere]

Yes. You can recommend anything. Getting someone to do it is a little different but at least you have covered your butt.

[kurnal]

Exit doors should open outwards over a smooth level platform at least the width of the door or a ramp conforming to building regs. Thats the goal. Having said that the building regs approved document B does recommend that a single step on the line of a door is permissible. It needs a risk assessment view over who will use the door- numbers, mobility, day or night etc.

[jokar]

Some individuals with walking difficulties find it hard to negotiate ramps and slopes and therefore both steps and a ramp where possible should be utilised.

[slubberdegullion]

Provisions for those people who may need a ramp should always be considered in the first instance, whether retrospective or new-build.

However, there are many existing buildings where a ramp is just not feasible due to the existing configuration of the exit - for example, there may not be room to fit it in.

In such cases some other provision should be made to ensure that all those who may need to use an exit are able to do so safely.  And an example here might be the allocation of a member of staff to assist people at a certain exit during an evacuation.

Of course, it may be the case that an exit is never likely to have a disabled person making his or her escape through it (for example, a plant area where no unique facility exists requiring access for all).  If that is the case then there is no need for a ramped egress route.

Stu

[afterburner]

Mick, my understanding is that if the management of the building allow / permit access for persons with mobility problems, the fire exit provisions have to meet the needs of these persons. So, if such special needs persons have access they need egress. If normal able bodied occupants needs several exits in case of fire then so do the persons with whatever difficulties. Being retrospective therefore hinges on whether the building was originally designed and constructed with no special provison for persons with mobility problems and has then become a building where access has been provided. (Probably to meet the requirements of the DDA). This compliance issue then defaults to the fire risk assessment to determine the needs and provisons. Therefore retrospective findings are essential.
to date I have had no problems in giving the retrospective advice, but as Nearlythere correctly says  "Getting someone to do it is a little different"!