1 of 49 bsd apc revision course 2010 a review on fire safety code - provision of means of escape in...

1 of 49BSD APC Revision Course 2010

A Review on Fire Safety Code - A Review on Fire Safety Code - Provision of Means of Escape In Case Of Fire Provision of Means of Escape In Case Of Fire

19961996

by Mr. Junkers Lamby Mr. Junkers Lam

Senior Building SurveyorSenior Building Surveyor

of of

Buildings DepartmentBuildings Department(17 Aug 2010)(17 Aug 2010)

BSD APC Revision Course 20102 of 49

Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996

ContentsContents

I.I. IntroductionIntroduction

II.II. BackgroundBackground

III.III. Requirements of Means of EscapeRequirements of Means of Escape

IV.IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoPs and PNAPs)Miscellaneous (Related CoPs and PNAPs)


Fire

Escape


I. IntroductionI. Introduction

Fire safety in a building is determined by a number of Fire safety in a building is determined by a number of factors, one of which is factors, one of which is adequateadequate means of escape means of escape


I.I. Introduction (Cont’d)Introduction (Cont’d)Building Authority’s PowerBuilding Authority’s Power


Buildings OrdinanceBuildings Ordinance– – s.16(1)(d)&(i)s.16(1)(d)&(i)

Building (Planning) RegulationsBuilding (Planning) Regulations-B(P)R41(1): satisfactory MoEB(P)R41(1): satisfactory MoE

-B(P)R41(2)B(P)R41(2): building with second staircase as MoE: building with second staircase as MoE

StatutoryStatutory

Non-Non-statutorystatutory

CoP for the Provision ofCoP for the Provision ofMeans of Escape In Case Of Fire 1996Means of Escape In Case Of Fire 1996

-GuidelinesGuidelines


II.II. BackgroundBackground

Requirements had not much changes Requirements had not much changes sincesince its first its first publication in publication in 19591959

Code reprinted in 1986 only covered typos/mistakes Code reprinted in 1986 only covered typos/mistakes and amendments in PNAPsand amendments in PNAPs

Review in 1989Review in 1989 was considered as parallel exercise was considered as parallel exercise with review of other regulations e.g. FRC and MoAwith review of other regulations e.g. FRC and MoA




III. III. Requirements of Means of EscapeRequirements of Means of Escape

1.1. Use of the CodeUse of the Code Provide Provide guidanceguidance for compliance of Building Authority(BA)’s for compliance of Building Authority(BA)’s

requirementsrequirements

2.2. ObjectivesObjectives Protect occupants from effects of fire by Protect occupants from effects of fire by adequateadequate means of means of

escapeescape

3.3. Two Approaches to Fire SafetyTwo Approaches to Fire Safety Prescriptive provisions (i.e. this CoP)Prescriptive provisions (i.e. this CoP) Alternative approach (e.g. Fire engineering approach)Alternative approach (e.g. Fire engineering approach)



4.4. Interpretations – Some Key ItemsInterpretations – Some Key Items ““BasementBasement” – below the lower or lowest ground storey with ” – below the lower or lowest ground storey with

anyany required exit route in required exit route in upwardupward direction direction ““Direct distanceDirect distance” – notional path from any part of a room to ” – notional path from any part of a room to

center of exit door of roomcenter of exit door of room ““Exit routeExit route” – route or means of passage to a place of safety ” – route or means of passage to a place of safety

outside building except revolving door, lift and escalatoroutside building except revolving door, lift and escalator ““Ground StoreyGround Storey”; “”; “MaisonetteMaisonette” & “” & “Usable Floor AreaUsable Floor Area” etc” etc

5.5. ApplicationApplication The code applies to The code applies to all buildings exceptall buildings except domestic building of domestic building of

(i) (i) 3 main domestic storeys 3 main domestic storeys; ;

(ii) (ii) 13m in highest floor 13m in highest floor level; and level; and

(iii) (iii) single-family occupancysingle-family occupancy Provisions in CoP Provisions in CoP shall not overruleshall not overrule other regulations other regulations



6.6. Special Hazard OccupancySpecial Hazard Occupancy Protected lobby is required if area of special hazard opens into Protected lobby is required if area of special hazard opens into

any exit route of adjoining normal-hazard occupancy any exit route of adjoining normal-hazard occupancy <MoE 6.1><MoE 6.1>

7.7. Assessment of AccommodationAssessment of Accommodation 2 methods to assess the number of persons (i.e. total 2 methods to assess the number of persons (i.e. total

population) within a building: (a) by population) within a building: (a) by calculationcalculation < Table 1, MoE < Table 1, MoE 7>7> or (b) by or (b) by actual countingactual counting <note (vi) of Table 1, MoE 7><note (vi) of Table 1, MoE 7>

Calculation of capacity depends on: -Calculation of capacity depends on: - Usable floor area Usable floor area (UFA);(UFA); Intended Intended useuse of premises; and of premises; and Prescribed Prescribed factorfactor for such use for such use

<Table 1, MoE 7><Table 1, MoE 7> Capacity of special premises (e.g. hospitals, hotels, places of Capacity of special premises (e.g. hospitals, hotels, places of

public entertainment etc) may be assessed by BA on the basis of public entertainment etc) may be assessed by BA on the basis of detailed layout plans detailed layout plans <note (ii) of Table 1, MoE 7><note (ii) of Table 1, MoE 7>


8.8. General Requirements of Exit RoutesGeneral Requirements of Exit Routes

Each storey should be provided with such exits and exit Each storey should be provided with such exits and exit routes as required by this Code routes as required by this Code <MoE 8.1><MoE 8.1>

Every exit route at ground level should lead to: -Every exit route at ground level should lead to: - Street; orStreet; or Open areaOpen area

with with unobstructedunobstructed access and door that can be readily access and door that can be readily opened from inside without the use of key(s) opened from inside without the use of key(s) <MoE 8.2><MoE 8.2>




8.8. General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)

MoE 8.2 may not be complied with if exit staircase leads to MoE 8.2 may not be complied with if exit staircase leads to open area at upper floors (e.g. open area at upper floors (e.g. podium levelpodium level) unless the ) unless the staircase should staircase should lead to an exit routelead to an exit route at such floor which at such floor which should : - should : - <MoE 8.3 and Diagram 7><MoE 8.3 and Diagram 7>

be adequately defined by permanent features;be adequately defined by permanent features; lead to street or open area (place of ultimate safety); lead to street or open area (place of ultimate safety); have the same MoE and FRC requirements as the have the same MoE and FRC requirements as the

exit staircaseexit staircase

Adequate artificial lighting of Adequate artificial lighting of min 30 lux min 30 lux at floor level; and at floor level; and backed up by an backed up by an emergency lightingemergency lighting system of system of min 2 luxmin 2 lux <MoE 8.4><MoE 8.4>



8.8. General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)

No exit route should discharge into a No exit route should discharge into a private laneprivate lane unless unless such lane is such lane is <MoE 8.5>:<MoE 8.5>: - -

properly paved;properly paved; free from permanent obstruction; andfree from permanent obstruction; and BA is satisfied with integrity of the lane as MoE BA is satisfied with integrity of the lane as MoE

(e.g. (e.g. Right of WayRight of Way))

Final point of discharge should be separated from Final point of discharge should be separated from adjoining exit routes or other accommodations with adjoining exit routes or other accommodations with min.min. 450mm450mm return along / projection from the return along / projection from the frontage frontage <MoE 8.6><MoE 8.6>



8. 8. General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)General Requirements of Exit Routes (Cont’d)

Clear height is of Clear height is of min.min. 2000mm2000mm with projection of with projection of sprinkler heads sprinkler heads <MoE 8.7>:-<MoE 8.7>:-

Max. 90mmMax. 90mm horizontally from side wall; and horizontally from side wall; and

Max. 105mmMax. 105mm vertically under ceiling vertically under ceiling

Door at final point of discharge Door at final point of discharge should set backshould set back with a with a distance distance not less than the widthnot less than the width of exit route if there is of exit route if there is a drop in level. If the drop consists of a a drop in level. If the drop consists of a single stepsingle step, it , it should be should be clearly visibleclearly visible. . <MoE 8.8><MoE 8.8>


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 19969.9. Buildings with a Single StaircaseBuildings with a Single Staircase

Single staircase may be permitted if : - Single staircase may be permitted if : - Building is Building is not more than 6 storeysnot more than 6 storeys <MoE 9.1><MoE 9.1>; ; (Dwg. 1)(Dwg. 1) Floor level of uppermost storey is Floor level of uppermost storey is not more than 17mnot more than 17m from from

ground level ground level <MoE 9.1><MoE 9.1>;; Only use as Only use as domestic or officedomestic or office (except ground storey may (except ground storey may

be used as shop or carparking) be used as shop or carparking) <MoE 9.2 (a)><MoE 9.2 (a)>;; Access for rescue ladder/appliance at ground level Access for rescue ladder/appliance at ground level <MoE <MoE

9.2 (b)>9.2 (b)>;; and and Comply with Comply with usable floor area limitationusable floor area limitation (highest floor (highest floor

13m13m with UFA with UFA not exceedingnot exceeding 250m250m22; if ; if >13m>13m then then 150m150m22 maxmax) ) <MoE 9.2 (c) & (d)><MoE 9.2 (c) & (d)>

If highest floor If highest floor >13m>13m, the , the staircasestaircase should be :- should be :- provided with aprovided with a protected lobby protected lobby at each floor;at each floor; continued continued to the roof; andto the roof; and adequate refuge areaadequate refuge area should be provided at should be provided at roof roof <MoE <MoE

9.2 (e)>9.2 (e)>


Dwg.1 – Single staircase buildingDwg.1 – Single staircase building

6 storeys6 storeysmax. ormax. or

17m17mmax.max.


G/FG/F

5/F5/F

4/F4/F

3/F3/F

2/F2/F

1/F1/F



10.10. Exits from RoomsExits from Rooms

For room with For room with more than 3 personsmore than 3 persons, following , following requirements should be complied with :- requirements should be complied with :- <Table 2, MoE 10.1>:-<Table 2, MoE 10.1>:-

Min. no. of exit doors (from room)/exit routes (from Min. no. of exit doors (from room)/exit routes (from storey); storey);

Min. total width of exit doors/routes; andMin. total width of exit doors/routes; and

Min. width of each exit door/route Min. width of each exit door/route (Dwg. 2 and 3)(Dwg. 2 and 3)

Every exit door Every exit door exit route which is exit route which is independentindependent of any of any other exit routes other exit routes <MoE 10.2><MoE 10.2>


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Dwg.2 – Min. width of exit door (750)/exit route (1050)Dwg.2 – Min. width of exit door (750)/exit route (1050)


Dwg.3 – Min. width of exit route (1050)Dwg.3 – Min. width of exit route (1050)


1050


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 199610.10. Exits from RoomsExits from Rooms (Cont’d)(Cont’d)

For capacity For capacity under 200under 200 persons persons, exit doors may give , exit doors may give access to a access to a singlesingle corridor or balcony approach having corridor or balcony approach having escape in escape in more thanmore than oneone direction direction <MoE 10.2><MoE 10.2>

e.g. e.g. referring toreferring to Table 2 Table 2 on the requirements of exits:-on the requirements of exits:-

(a)(a) room/storey with room/storey with 31 - 20031 - 200 persons => persons => 22 exit doors/routes exit doors/routes

(b) room/storey with (b) room/storey with 201 – 300201 – 300 persons => persons => 22 exit doors/routes exit doors/routes

(c) room/storey with (c) room/storey with 301 – 500301 – 500 persons => persons => 22 exit doors/routes exit doors/routes

(In all these 3 cases, min no. of exit doors/routes is the (In all these 3 cases, min no. of exit doors/routes is the same ‘2’. However, apart from the Min Total Width and Min same ‘2’. However, apart from the Min Total Width and Min Width of Each exit door/route are different, only exit doors Width of Each exit door/route are different, only exit doors in case in case (a)(a) may give access to a single corridor or balcony may give access to a single corridor or balcony approach having escape in more than one direction) approach having escape in more than one direction)



10.10. Exits from Rooms (Cont’d)Exits from Rooms (Cont’d)

(If 2 or more doors are provided) For door of width over (If 2 or more doors are provided) For door of width over 1.51.5 times of width of the narrowest door, such surplus portion of times of width of the narrowest door, such surplus portion of width should be excluded in calculation of total door width width should be excluded in calculation of total door width <MoE 10.3>, <MoE 10.3>, e.g.: -e.g.: -

DoorDoor D1D1 D2D2 D3D3

Width (mm)Width (mm) 750750 850850 12001200

Total widthTotal width = D1 + D2 + = D1 + D2 + 1.5 x D11.5 x D1 (as D3 > 1.5x D1)(as D3 > 1.5x D1)

= 750 + 850 + (750+375)= 750 + 850 + (750+375)

= = 27252725 mmmm

• [Where D1 + D2 + D3 = 750 + 850 + 1200 = [Where D1 + D2 + D3 = 750 + 850 + 1200 = 28002800 mm] mm]



11.11. Exits from StoreysExits from Storeys

Min. Min. 2 exit routes2 exit routes should be provided for should be provided for each storeyeach storey of of building except buildings permitted to have single building except buildings permitted to have single staircase staircase <MoE 11.1>. <MoE 11.1>. Provided that : (a) Provided that : (a) maisonettemaisonette – – should apply should apply to only oneto only one of the storeys; (b) where 2 or of the storeys; (b) where 2 or more exit routes vary in width, width over more exit routes vary in width, width over 1.5 times1.5 times of of width of the narrowest exit route, such width of the narrowest exit route, such surplussurplus portion of portion of width should be width should be excludedexcluded in calculation of min total width in calculation of min total width

People should be able to gain access to min. one of the People should be able to gain access to min. one of the other staircases (i.e. other staircases (i.e. interchangeableinterchangeable) (if two or more ) (if two or more exits are required) exits are required) (Dwg.4) (Dwg.4) <MoE 11.2>:<MoE 11.2>: - -

At each floor; orAt each floor; or

At refuge floor At refuge floor andand the roof (if provided) the roof (if provided)

Not applicableNot applicable in Domestic or composite buildings in Domestic or composite buildings not exceeding 15not exceeding 15 storeys storeys


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Dwg.4 – Staircases not interchangeableDwg.4 – Staircases not interchangeable

(OK if not exceeding 15 storeys)(OK if not exceeding 15 storeys)



12.12. Exits at Ground StoreyExits at Ground Storey

Every staircase should be separated from remainder of the Every staircase should be separated from remainder of the building with continuous enclosing walls at ground storey building with continuous enclosing walls at ground storey <MoE 12.1> <MoE 12.1> provided that (a) when served by provided that (a) when served by 2 or more 2 or more staircasesstaircases, a cloakroom, lavatory, WC, caretaker’s office, , a cloakroom, lavatory, WC, caretaker’s office, fire control room or caretaker’s counter fire control room or caretaker’s counter may open offmay open off; and ; and (b) when served by (b) when served by 3 or more staircases3 or more staircases, , oneone in every 3 in every 3 such staircases such staircases may dischargemay discharge through fire resisting doors through fire resisting doors to a to a hall or shoppinghall or shopping arcadearcade subject to compliance with subject to compliance with MoE 8.2 & 8.4.MoE 8.2 & 8.4.

If exit route from ground storey forms also that from a If exit route from ground storey forms also that from a staircase staircase <MoE 12.2><MoE 12.2>, the min. width of such exit route: -, the min. width of such exit route: -

Min. width = Min. width = ½½ the width required for the width required for exit from G/Fexit from G/F ++ the the widthwidth required for staircase from required for staircase from upper floorsupper floors; and that, if ; and that, if any, from the any, from the basementsbasements


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 199613.13. Access to Staircase(s) within a BuildingAccess to Staircase(s) within a Building

Complied with min. FRC requirements for Complied with min. FRC requirements for separationseparation of of every staircase every staircase <MoE 13.1><MoE 13.1>

In case of Single-Staircase Building, MoE 9 appliesIn case of Single-Staircase Building, MoE 9 applies <MoE <MoE 13.2>13.2>

Different directionDifferent direction in approaching in approaching each staircaseeach staircase provided provided that deadends (Direct Distance +Travel Distance that deadends (Direct Distance +Travel Distance 18m) will 18m) will be permitted under MoE 14.3(b) & be permitted under MoE 14.3(b) & Min. distanceMin. distance between 2 between 2 staircases is staircases is 6m6m (if 2 or more staircases are required) (if 2 or more staircases are required) <MoE <MoE 13.3>13.3>

Access to an alternative staircase should not pass through Access to an alternative staircase should not pass through one staircase enclosure one staircase enclosure <MoE 13.4><MoE 13.4>



13.13. Access to Staircase(s) within a Building (Cont’d)Access to Staircase(s) within a Building (Cont’d)

Where internal access is provided:-Where internal access is provided:-

no door opening on to an internal common corridor should at no door opening on to an internal common corridor should at any part of its swing reduce the min required width of such any part of its swing reduce the min required width of such corridor corridor <MoE 13.5 (a)><MoE 13.5 (a)>

Protected lobby should be provided to each and every staircase Protected lobby should be provided to each and every staircase unless unless <MoE 13.5 (b)>:<MoE 13.5 (b)>: - -

It is an open-sided staircase;It is an open-sided staircase;

Highest floor of single staircase building is Highest floor of single staircase building is 13m 13m; or; or

Highest floor of building with at least 2 staircases is Highest floor of building with at least 2 staircases is 20m20m

Such protected lobby should be a Such protected lobby should be a commoncommon area and an area and an integralintegral part of the staircasepart of the staircase



14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD)14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD)

Limitation of TD & Sum of TD+DD depends on: -Limitation of TD & Sum of TD+DD depends on: -

Arrangement of exit routes; andArrangement of exit routes; and

Use of premisesUse of premises

Exit route is categorized into 3 major arrangements: -Exit route is categorized into 3 major arrangements: -

Balcony approachBalcony approach (Dwg. 5)(Dwg. 5) or internal corridor with or internal corridor with ventilation;ventilation;

Internal corridorInternal corridor without ventilation without ventilation

Storey Storey partitioned into roomspartitioned into rooms but exit route is not along but exit route is not along balcony approach or internal corridorbalcony approach or internal corridor



Dwg.5 – Balcony approachDwg.5 – Balcony approach

Staircase

StaircaseBalcony Approach



14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD) (Cont’d)14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD) (Cont’d)

Limitation of distance is imposed on 3 dimensions:-Limitation of distance is imposed on 3 dimensions:-

Max. DDMax. DD (any part of room to exit door) (any part of room to exit door) (Dwg. 6)(Dwg. 6) ; ;

Max. TDMax. TD (exit door of room to a staircase or point of (exit door of room to a staircase or point of discharge to a place of ultimate safety); anddischarge to a place of ultimate safety); and

Max. sumMax. sum of DD + TD of DD + TD

Table 3Table 3 – for single-staircase buildings – for single-staircase buildings

Table 4Table 4 – for buildings with 2 or more staircases – for buildings with 2 or more staircases


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Dwg.6 – Dead End Situation in a RoomDwg.6 – Dead End Situation in a Room

(Max. DD is15m if less than 30(Max. DD is15m if less than 30oo; otherwise 18m ); otherwise 18m )



14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD) (Cont’d)14. Direct Distance (DD) and Travel Distance (TD) (Cont’d)

Max. distance between 2 staircases is Max. distance between 2 staircases is 48m48m (if 2 or more (if 2 or more staircases are required) staircases are required) <MoE 14.3 (c)> (MoE 13.3 refers)<MoE 14.3 (c)> (MoE 13.3 refers)

For open plan, Max DD For open plan, Max DD 30m if 2 exit routes 30m if 2 exit routes; ; 18m if 18m if only 1 exitonly 1 exit route or 2 exit routes but forming angle less route or 2 exit routes but forming angle less than 30than 30oo (i.e. deadend in storey)(i.e. deadend in storey) <MoE 14.4> <MoE 14.4>

For room with the only exit is through another room i.e. For room with the only exit is through another room i.e. inner roominner room <MoE 14.5><MoE 14.5> :- :-

Max. capacity is 30;Max. capacity is 30;

No access through special hazard area;No access through special hazard area;

Vision panel should be provided except toiletVision panel should be provided except toilet

Angle between 2 or more required exit doors should be of Angle between 2 or more required exit doors should be of min. 30min. 30°° <MoE 14.6><MoE 14.6>



15.15. Discharge Value (Discharge Value (DVDV) and Width of Staircase) and Width of Staircase

Assessment of discharge value (Assessment of discharge value (DVDV) of a staircase ) of a staircase depends on 3 key factors depends on 3 key factors <MoE 15.3 and 15.4>:<MoE 15.3 and 15.4>: - -

Whether Building is non-sprinklered Whether Building is non-sprinklered (Table 5)(Table 5) or or

sprinklered sprinklered (Table 6);(Table 6);

No. of storeys served by such staircase; andNo. of storeys served by such staircase; and

Width of the staircaseWidth of the staircase

Table 5Table 5 – for non-sprinklered buildings – for non-sprinklered buildings

Table 6Table 6 – for sprinklered buildings – for sprinklered buildings



15.15. Discharge Value (Discharge Value (DVDV) and Width of Staircase (Cont’d)) and Width of Staircase (Cont’d)

The discharge value tables are formulated on the following The discharge value tables are formulated on the following basis: -basis: -

Total evacuation conceptTotal evacuation concept

Evacuation time (from a storey to a protected area)Evacuation time (from a storey to a protected area)

– – within within 2.5 mins2.5 mins.. for for non-sprinklerednon-sprinklered buildings; buildings;

– – within within 5.0 mins5.0 mins.. for for sprinkleredsprinklered buildingsbuildings

Flow rate (descending): Flow rate (descending): 80 persons/meter width/min80 persons/meter width/min..

Staircase capacity (temporarily housed in staircase Staircase capacity (temporarily housed in staircase during evacuation) : during evacuation) : 3.5 ~3.9 person/m3.5 ~3.9 person/m22


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 199615.15. Discharge Value (Discharge Value (DVDV) and Width of Staircase (Cont’d)) and Width of Staircase (Cont’d)

A defined reduction factor should be multiplied to the A defined reduction factor should be multiplied to the discharge value of staircase discharge value of staircase <MoE 15.5 and 15.6><MoE 15.5 and 15.6> :- :-

Factor of Factor of 0.80.8 if exit is of if exit is of upward upward direction; ordirection; or

Factor of Factor of 0.70.7 if it is a if it is a scissors scissors staircasestaircase

For special buildings (e.g. sport arenas, stadia & convention For special buildings (e.g. sport arenas, stadia & convention centres etc) having a total capacity of centres etc) having a total capacity of not less thannot less than 10,000 10,000 personspersons,, the Total Width of staircases should be the Total Width of staircases should be 1.2 times1.2 times that required under Table 2 according to the capacity of the that required under Table 2 according to the capacity of the area concerned area concerned <MoE 15.8><MoE 15.8> . This kind of special buildings . This kind of special buildings having a total capacity of having a total capacity of not less than 10,000 personsnot less than 10,000 persons may may necessitate special consideration, e.g. Fire Engineering necessitate special consideration, e.g. Fire Engineering Approach may be the only viable means to a satisfactory Approach may be the only viable means to a satisfactory standard of a fire safety. standard of a fire safety. <MoE 15.9><MoE 15.9>



16. Doors in relation to Exits16. Doors in relation to Exits

Exit door of a room with capacity Exit door of a room with capacity over 30over 30 should open in should open in the direction of exit ; have the direction of exit ; have a vision panela vision panel if opens both if opens both ways. ways. <MoE 16.1><MoE 16.1>

If it is needed to secure an exit door against entry from If it is needed to secure an exit door against entry from outside, locking device must be capable of being outside, locking device must be capable of being readily readily opened from inside without a keyopened from inside without a key, also be capable of , also be capable of automatic release upon actuation of a sensor or power automatic release upon actuation of a sensor or power failure. failure. <MoE 16.2><MoE 16.2>

Every door opening onto landing of a staircase should Every door opening onto landing of a staircase should not reduce the effective radiusnot reduce the effective radius of such landing at any of such landing at any point of its swing point of its swing <MoE 16.3> <MoE 16.3> (Dwg. 7)(Dwg. 7)

Min. width of exit door from a room of capacity > 3 is Min. width of exit door from a room of capacity > 3 is 750mm750mm <MoE 16.4><MoE 16.4>


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Dwg.7 – Door opening onto landing of a staircaseDwg.7 – Door opening onto landing of a staircase



17.17. Construction of StaircasesConstruction of Staircases

Requirements of staircase Requirements of staircase <MoE 17.2><MoE 17.2> (Photo. 1, 2 and 3):-(Photo. 1, 2 and 3):-

Min. 2 RisersMin. 2 Risers and and max. 16 Risersmax. 16 Risers for each flight ; and for each flight ; and

Min.Min. 225mm wide225mm wide and and max. 175mm highmax. 175mm high for treads for treads

Requirements of Requirements of schoolschool and and place of public place of public entertainmententertainment are much are much more stringentmore stringent

Clear height of staircase is of min. Clear height of staircase is of min. 2000mm2000mm <MoE 17.4><MoE 17.4>

If width If width exceeds 1800mmexceeds 1800mm, , central handrailcentral handrail is required to is required to separate it in sections, each section should not be less than separate it in sections, each section should not be less than 1050mm in width.1050mm in width. <MoE 17.5> <MoE 17.5>

Handrail should be provided on each side of staircase at a Handrail should be provided on each side of staircase at a height between height between 850mm850mm and and 1100mm1100mm <MoE 17.6><MoE 17.6>



Photo.1 – Non-compliance of Photo.1 – Non-compliance of steps geometrysteps geometry in heritage building in heritage building

Riser : 180mm ht (>175mm) Riser : 180mm ht (>175mm) and 200mm wide (<225mm)and 200mm wide (<225mm)

Not acceptableNot acceptable


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Photo.2 – MOE staircase Photo.2 – MOE staircase with winderswith winders in heritage building in heritage building



Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Photo.3 – MOE staircase with Photo.3 – MOE staircase with more than 16 stepsmore than 16 steps in heritage building in heritage building

Total: 21 steps Total: 21 steps (>16 steps)(>16 steps)




18.18. RampsRamps

Ramp forming part of an exit route should Ramp forming part of an exit route should not be steepernot be steeper than than 1:121:12 <MoE 18><MoE 18>

19.19. Lift LobbiesLift Lobbies

Access to Access to exit routeexit route should be provided to every should be provided to every lift lift lobbylobby without any obstruction and lockable door. without any obstruction and lockable door.

<MoE 19><MoE 19>



20.20. BasementsBasements

At least At least 2 exits2 exits should be provided for every “genuine should be provided for every “genuine basement” basement” <MoE 20.1><MoE 20.1>

No staircaseNo staircase serving floors above ground storey should serving floors above ground storey should be continued to a basement be continued to a basement <MoE 20.2><MoE 20.2>

Sufficient Sufficient directional and exit signsdirectional and exit signs should be provided should be provided for indication of exit direction for indication of exit direction <MoE 20.3><MoE 20.3>

Min.Min. oneone exit exit should discharge should discharge independentlyindependently from from other exits to a place of ultimate safety other exits to a place of ultimate safety <MoE 20.4><MoE 20.4>



21.21. Refuge FloorsRefuge Floors

Refuge floor should be provided in Refuge floor should be provided in all buildings exceeding 25all buildings exceeding 25 storeys in height above the lowest ground storey storeys in height above the lowest ground storey <MoE 21.1>,<MoE 21.1>, at a at a height: -height: -

Not more than Not more than 20 storeys20 storeys for industrial building; or for industrial building; or

Not more than Not more than 25 storeys25 storeys for non-industrial building for non-industrial building

from other refuge floor or above street or open area from other refuge floor or above street or open area (excluding mechanical floors)(excluding mechanical floors)

MoE 21.1 is not applicable to MoE 21.1 is not applicable to domestic or compositedomestic or composite building (not building (not exceeding 40 storeys) exceeding 40 storeys) <MoE 21.5>,<MoE 21.5>, but: - but: -

Main roof should be a refuge floor if such types of building is Main roof should be a refuge floor if such types of building is between 26-storey to 40-storey in height (inclusively)between 26-storey to 40-storey in height (inclusively)



21.21. Refuge Floors (Cont’d)Refuge Floors (Cont’d)

Requirements are divided into 2 groups according to nature Requirements are divided into 2 groups according to nature of such refuge floor: -of such refuge floor: -

Genuine refuge floor (not on roof) Genuine refuge floor (not on roof) <MoE 21.2 ><MoE 21.2 > ; or ; or

Main roof as refuge floor Main roof as refuge floor <MoE 21.3><MoE 21.3>

General restrictions on refuge floors e.g. : -General restrictions on refuge floors e.g. : -

Net refuge area = Net refuge area = min. 50%min. 50% of GFA of typical floor; of GFA of typical floor;

Min. dimension is of Min. dimension is of 50%50% greater than width of widest greater than width of widest staircase serving such floor; andstaircase serving such floor; and

All staircases should be All staircases should be discontinueddiscontinued at refuge floor at refuge floor

Signs should be provided as per requirements Signs should be provided as per requirements <MoE <MoE 21.4>21.4>



Places of Public Entertainment (PPE)Places of Public Entertainment (PPE)

Para. 22 ~ 34 are additional requirements on MoE Para. 22 ~ 34 are additional requirements on MoE provisions to all Places of Public Entertainmentprovisions to all Places of Public Entertainment

Including Including permanent and temporarypermanent and temporary buildings buildings having PPEhaving PPE

These requirements are transferred from the These requirements are transferred from the updated Places of Public Entertainment updated Places of Public Entertainment Regulations (formerly PNAP 194 / now Regulations (formerly PNAP 194 / now PNAP PNAP APP-81 APP-81 refers)refers)



Places of Public Entertainment (PPE)Places of Public Entertainment (PPE)

MoE for PPE are more stringent since: -MoE for PPE are more stringent since: -

(a)(a) Places of Places of PublicPublic Entertainment Entertainment not familiar with the layout, not familiar with the layout, don’t know where are the exitsdon’t know where are the exits

(b)(b) Places of Public Places of Public EntertainmentEntertainment focus on the stage or the focus on the stage or the performance, less attentive to other signs, warnings, etc.performance, less attentive to other signs, warnings, etc.

(c)(c) Large Large population population crowded & people tend to follow otherscrowded & people tend to follow others

(d)(d) Very often, special lighting & sound effects Very often, special lighting & sound effects people people become less cautious to the emergence of fire / smoke / become less cautious to the emergence of fire / smoke / flash / sparkle etc flash / sparkle etc belated reaction belated reaction higher risk higher risk

[Detailed requirements refer to CoP][Detailed requirements refer to CoP]


Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996Review on CoP for Means of Escape 1996IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoPs and PNAPs)IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoPs and PNAPs)

ReferenceReference TitleTitle Date of Date of Current IssueCurrent Issue

PNAP 54PNAP 54

(APP-14)(APP-14)

Cinemas Cinemas and Other Places of Public Entertainment and Other Places of Public Entertainment in in Non-domestic Buildings or Composite BuildingsNon-domestic Buildings or Composite Buildings

Apr 10Apr 10

PNAP 117PNAP 117

(APP-43)(APP-43)

Licensing of Child Care Centres, Kindergartens and Licensing of Child Care Centres, Kindergartens and RestaurantsRestaurants

Aug 96Aug 96

PNAP 169PNAP 169

(APP-65)(APP-65)

Natural Lighting to Staircases – Building (Planning) Natural Lighting to Staircases – Building (Planning) Regulation 40Regulation 40

Mar 03Mar 03

PANP 179PANP 179

(APP-73)(APP-73)

Service LanesService Lanes Nov 95Nov 95

PANP 194PANP 194

(APP-81)(APP-81)

Places of Public Entertainment (Amendment) Places of Public Entertainment (Amendment) Regulation 1996 and Associated Legislative Regulation 1996 and Associated Legislative AmendmentsAmendments

Jun 96Jun 96




PNAP 195 PNAP 195 (APP-82)(APP-82)

Code of Practice for the Provision of Means of Code of Practice for the Provision of Means of Escape in Case of Fire 1996Escape in Case of Fire 1996

Jun 96Jun 96

PNAP 202PNAP 202

(APP-85)(APP-85)

Application of the Revised Fire Safety CodesApplication of the Revised Fire Safety Codes Oct 96Oct 96

PNAP 204PNAP 204

(APP-87)(APP-87)

Guide to Fire Engineering ApproachGuide to Fire Engineering Approach Mar 98Mar 98

PNAP 210PNAP 210

(APP-92)(APP-92)

Amendments and Clarification to Code of Practice for Amendments and Clarification to Code of Practice for the Provision of Means of Escape in case of Fire the Provision of Means of Escape in case of Fire 19961996

Aug 97Aug 97

PNAP 212PNAP 212

(APP-94)(APP-94)

Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Ordinance, Cap Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Ordinance, Cap 502502

Oct 07Oct 07

IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoP and PNAP) IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoP and PNAP) (Cont’d)(Cont’d)




PNAP 253PNAP 253(APP-119)(APP-119)

Stair-well and Open Wells In School and Other Stair-well and Open Wells In School and Other Buildings Used by YoungstersBuildings Used by Youngsters

May 01May 01

PNAP 257PNAP 257(APP-121)(APP-121)

Amendment to Code of Practice for Provision of Amendment to Code of Practice for Provision of Means of Escape in case of Fire 1996 (MoE Code)Means of Escape in case of Fire 1996 (MoE Code)

Jun 01Jun 01

PNAP 258PNAP 258

(APP-122)(APP-122)

Provision of Sky Garden in Refuge FloorProvision of Sky Garden in Refuge Floor Dec 01Dec 01

PNAP 302PNAP 302

(APP-145)(APP-145)

Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance, Cap 572Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance, Cap 572 Oct 07Oct 07

IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoP and PNAP) (Cont’d)IV. Miscellaneous (Related CoP and PNAP) (Cont’d)


MoEMoE

FRCFRC

MoAMoA


IV.IV. Miscellaneous Miscellaneous

( Main ( Main Conceptual Conceptual Objectives of the 3 Fire Safety CoPObjectives of the 3 Fire Safety CoP))



Thank You !Thank You !

Thank you for your patience!Thank you for your patience!

Email :Email : [email protected]@bd.gov.hk

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