2.3.1 General
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.1 : General
STAIRCASE IDENTIFICATION
Staircase identification is required for all buildings (except PG 1) regardless of the height of the building.
Staircase identification is to facilitate firefighting operation. It also enables the user of the staircase to orientate his location or whereabouts. This would help to alleviate any fear of disorientation by a person using the staircase during a fire emergency.
REQUIREMENT ON STAIRWAY NUMBERING SYSTEM
a. The numbering system is composed of square signs of at least 30cm x 30cm located, or painted, on the wall surface adjacent to the door on the stairway side.
b. A sign should be located at each level landing in the stairway. The bottom of the sign should be located not less than 1.5m above the floor of the staircase landing. The sign should be placed adjacent to the door and shall be visible with the door opened or closed.
c. The block-lettered sign may be of any colour that will contrast with the colour scheme of the stairway.
(1) The height of the large number(s) in the middle of the sign denoting the storey should be a minimum of 12.5cm.
Section
Figure 2.3.1 - 1 : Location of sign in scissor exit staircases
Figure 2.3.1 - 2 : Example 1
25th storey of a staircase that extends from the 1st storey to the 30th storey of a 30-storey building.
The stairway terminates at the roof.
This is the ‘A’ Staircase in the building.
(2) The number(s) and/or letter(s) at the top of the sign denoting the upper and lower terminations of the stairway should be a minimum of 2.5cm.
Identification of staircases in the building should be indicated in alphabetical and/or numeric order. The lettering height should be 2.5cm minimum, e.g., Staircase A, and located at the bottom of the sign.
Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.1 - 3
The intent of this provision is to provide vital egress information to the occupants of a building and to firefighters. To reduce information overload to occupants during emergency egress, a sign indicating the floor level and the direction to the exit discharge is permitted to be placed as a separate sign with another sign indicating the floor level, the terminus of the top and bottom of the stair enclosure, and the identification of the stair.
Amendment History
| 2.3.1 |
1 Mar 2021 |
1 Sep 2021 |
Revised/Clarification |
General a. Means of escape shall be provided for all buildings by one or more of the facilities listed herein. Access and exit facilities not specifically covered in this Code shall not be used without the approval of the SCDF. Required exits shall be kept readily accessible, and doors shall be openable and unobstructed at all times during the occupancy of the building. b. Exit staircase signage ………………….. |
1 Mar 2021 |
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a. Means of escape shall be provided for all buildings by one or more of the facilities listed herein. Access and exit facilities not specifically covered in this Code shall not be used without the approval of the SCDF. Required exits shall be kept readily accessible, and doors shall be openable and unobstructed at all times during the occupancy of the building. Any future grille gate/door swing from units/service shaft into the common areas shall be indicated with dotted lines on building plans to show the egress requirements are met, despite the door swing.
Amendment History
| 2.3.1a. |
1 Mar 2021 |
1 Sep 2021 |
Revised/Clarification |
General a. Means of escape shall be provided for all buildings by one or more of the facilities listed herein. Access and exit facilities not specifically covered in this Code shall not be used without the approval of the SCDF. Required exits shall be kept readily accessible, and doors shall be openable and unobstructed at all times during the occupancy of the building. b. Exit staircase signage ………………….. |
1 Mar 2021 |
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b. Exit staircase signage
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.1b
The signs facilitate awareness of one's location for building occupants and firefighters within the enclosed stairway. This would help to alleviate any fear of disorientation by a person using the exit staircase during a fire
emergency.
(1) Exit staircases serving all buildings (except PG I) shall be provided with a signage not smaller than 300 x 300mm and be within the stairwell at each storey landing.
(2) The signage shall contain the following information:
(a) the storey number, at least 125mm in height; and
(b) an identification of the staircase in alphabetical and/or numeric form, at least 25mm in height.
(3) The letters and numbers on the sign can be of any colour that provides contrast with the background colour.
(4) The signage shall be located such that it is visible when the door is in the open position and also visible to any person moving up or down the staircase.
c. Fire escape plan
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.1c
The fire escape plan serves to orientate and guide the building
occupants and public on the egress routes during an emergency.
These plans should be placed at common areas where the public and occupants of the building are most likely to frequent or use and can locate them easily. Such locations include common corridors, lobbies etc.
Amendment History
| 2.3.1c. (2 Mar 2020) |
2 Mar 2020 |
2 Mar 2020 |
Clarification |
Fire escape plan A fire escape plan shall be provided for all buildings except PG I and displayed in common lobbies or lift lobbies such that they are easily viewable by the building occupants and the general public passing through these common areas. The fire escape plan shall have legible lettering and the fire escape routes made clear to the viewer. It shall clearly show the layout of the floor in the correct orientation and highlight the escape routes (in relation to viewer’s location), escape corridors and exit staircases using appropriate colours, directional signs and words. Other information required on the plan are for firefighting and evacuation purposes and shall include the locations of the following: (1) Fire lifts; (2) Evacuation lifts; (3) PWD holding points; (4) Hose reels; (5) Fire extinguishers; (6) Manual alarm call points; and (7) Rising mains. |
2 Mar 2020 |
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(1) A fire escape plan shall be provided for all buildings except PG I and displayed in common lobbies or lift lobbies such that they are easily viewable by the building occupants and the general public passing through these common areas. The fire escape plan shall have legible lettering and the fire escape routes made clear to the viewer. It shall clearly show the layout of the floor in the correct orientation and highlight the escape routes (in relation to viewer’s location), escape corridors and exit staircases using appropriate colours, directional signs and words. The information required on the plan are only for firefighting and evacuation purposes and shall include the locations of the following:
(f) Manual alarm call points; and
(2) For ensuring legibility of the fire escape plan for buildings with large floor areas, partial plan showing minimally 2 escape routes is acceptable. The plan shall show the egress paths to at least 2 remotely located exits/exit staircases, including the PWD holding points.
a. Fire resistance
Exit passageways that serve as a means of escape or required exits from any building or storey of a building shall have the requisite fire resistance as specified under Cl.3.3.
b. Internal exit passageway
An internal exit passageway which serves as required exit of a building shall comply with the following requirements:
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.2b. : Exit passageways
The word exit used in the term exit passageway helps to distinguish the difference between an exit passageway and an ordinary passageway or corridor. An exit passageway is an exit; it provides a path of travel offering the same level of protection and safety that is required on an enclosed exit stair. An exit passageway is a versatile feature, because it can be used to extend an exit, or, as in done in many cases, it can be used to bring an exit closer to where the occupants are located.
External exit passageway is not common in building under PG II owing to the restrictive requirements of high level ventilation of 1.8m above the finished floor level of passageway and the provision of fire doors opening into the passageway.
Figure 2.3.2b. -1 : Exit passageway used to connect exit staircase with exterior of building
Figure 2.3.2b. - 2 : This layout is not acceptable as the nos of door openings within an internal exit passageway has go beyond 2.
Figure 2.3.2b. - 3 : Exit passageway with fire-rated enclosures & fire-rated door
Exit passageway A on the first floor - the level of exit discharge – opens at one end to a five-storey exit stair enclosure and at the other end to a door to the outside. This exit passageway also serves as a horizontal continuation of, and discharge for, the stair enclosure. In serving as a discharge for the exit stair, the exit passageway must provide the same degree of protection required of the stair enclosure.
The exit passageway B, on the fourth floor, is used to provide the safety of an exit occupants travelling to the exit stair enclosure. This exit passageway might have been built to meet the travel distance limitation.
(1) it shall be enclosed with construction complying with the provisions of Cl.3.3;
(2) the enclosure walls shall have not more than two exit doors, excluding the final discharge door and exit staircase door, opening into the exit passageway;
(3) exit doors opening into an exit passageway shall have fire resistance rating as required for exit doors opening into exit staircases, be fitted with automatic self-closing device and comply with the requirements of Cl.3.9.2 for fire resisting doors;
(4) the minimum width and capacity of exit passageway shall comply with the requirements as provided in Table 2.2A;
(5) changes in level along an exit passageway requiring less than two risers shall be via a ramp complying with the provisions under Cl.2.3.8;
and
(6) if the exit staircase which connects to the internal exit passageway is pressurised, the internal exit passageway shall also be pressurised to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7.
c. External exit passageway
An external exit passageway can be used as a required exit in lieu of an internal exit passageway. It shall comply with the following requirements:
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.2c
An exit passageway provides the same level of protection from the effects of fire and smoke as an exit staircase. It is an extension of an exit staircase. An exit passageway can be provided when the travel distance from the occupied space to the exit staircase exceeds the permissible travel distance.
(1) any ventilation openings on the external wall between the exit passageway and the rest of the floor space shall be of non-combustible construction, fixed at a level of at least 1.8m, measured from the finished floor level of the passageway to the sill level of the openings and such ventilation openings shall be located not less than 3m from any opening of an exit staircase;
(2) it is exempted from the limitations of a maximum of two exit doors opening into the exit passageway;
(3) it can be roofed over provided the depth of the roofed over portion does not exceed 3m to avoid smoke logging;
(4) it can be enclosed on the open side by only a parapet wall of not less than 1m and not more than 1.1m in height and the vertical height of the unobstructed ventilation opening measured from the parapet wall up to the top edge of the opening or eaves of overhang shall not be less than 1.2m; and
(5) exit doors opening into an external exit passageway shall have fire resistance rating of at least ½-hr and shall be fitted with an automatic self- closing device.
d. Ventilation
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.2d
An internal exit passageway is an extension of an exit staircase and shall be adequately ventilated to prevent smoke-logged during a fire
emergency. Where natural ventilation is not possible, mechanical ventilation shall be provided.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.2d. : Exit passageways
Figure 2.3.2d
Natural ventilation shall be provided to all internal exit passageway. Window openings (W) shall not be less than 15% of the floor area of internal exit passageway shown above. Where internal exit passageway cannot be naturally ventilated, mechanical ventilation shall be provided to comply with Chapter 7. The number of exit doors opening into the internal exit passageway shall not exceed two.
Note : It is uncommon to design means of escape using internal exit passageway for buildings under PG II.
(1) All internal exit passageways shall be naturally ventilated by fixed ventilation openings in an external wall, such ventilation openings being not less than 15% of the floor area of the exit passageway.
(2) Internal exit passageways that cannot be naturally ventilated shall be mechanically ventilated to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7.
a. Internal exit staircase
(1) Staircase enclosure
An internal exit staircase which serves as the required exit of the building shall be enclosed with construction complying with the provisions of Cl.3.8.
The enclosure walls of an internal exit staircase, excluding the final discharge, shall not have more than two exit doors opening into the exit staircase shaft at each storey.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3a.(1)
The number of door opening into an exit staircase shall be controlled so as to minimise the risk of the staircase integrity being breached. These fire doors shall be closed fully in order to act as an effective barrier against the spread of fire and smoke.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3a.(1) :Exit staircase
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=712f3fa6_1 "Fg.2.3.3a(1)")
Figure 2.3.3a.(1)
This is a 5-storey building. Entry to exit staircase shall be via smoke-stop lobby.
No unprotected openings of occupancy area within 1.5m horizontally from window opening of internal staircase. See Cl.3.8 for requirements
on the provision of protected shaft.
(2) Approached via external exit passageway or external corridor
Where an internal exit staircase is directly approached from an external exit passageway or external corridor, such enclosure between the staircase and the external exit passageway or external corridor is not required.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3a.(2) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=7b39f39_1 "Fg.2.3.3a(2)-1")
Figure 2.3.3a.(2) - 1 : Cross-ventilated exit staircase of industrial slab block with external corridor approach
Exit staircase is cross-ventilated & maintained under smoke-free condition at all times. Unprotected openings of the apartment or maisonette units are not facing (as shown in above figure) or ventilating into the exit staircase enclosure.
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=dba0b0f3_1 "Fg.2.3.3a(2)-2")
Figure 2.3.3a.(2) - 2 : Cross-ventilated exit staircase of commercial block with external corridor approach
Cross ventilation provided to staircase will help to disperse smoke more readily. No unprotected openings from the shop units should face or ventilate into the exit staircase enclosure. The rear portion of shop unit C shall have 3m blank wall next to the staircase, otherwise smoke could be channelled into the staircase where there is a fire in the shop.
(3) Unprotected openings
There shall be no unprotected openings of occupancy area or combustible material/construction within 1.5m horizontally or within 3m vertically below any opening including final discharge openings located in the external walls of the internal exit staircase.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3a.(3)
The minimum separation distances between openings of an internal exit staircase and nearby unprotected openings shall be maintained. This is to reduce the risk of smoke and fire spreading into the internal exit staircase
during a fire emergency.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3a.(3) - Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=5bbd58de_1 "Fg.2.3.3a(3)-1")
Elevation
Figure 2.3.3a.(3) - 1: Unprotected openings of external wall to staircase
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=6631ecf2_1 "Fg.2.3.3a(3)-2")
Elevation
Figure 2.3.3a.(3) - 2: Unprotected openings of external wall to staircase
(a) Single storey basement car park
Exit staircases, including exit ramps in compliance with Cl.2.3.8a. & Cl.2.3.8b., serving the single storey basement of PG II to VII buildings are not required to be protected with fire-rated enclosures, provided the travel distances in the car park measured to the exit doors at
ground level comply with Table 2.2A.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3a.(4)(a)
The reasons for the relaxation are:
1. The car parking areas are provided with either automatic fire alarm or sprinkler system.
2. Car parking areas are usually not occupied, except during the times when people are parking or retrieving their cars.
3. Adequate ventilation for smoke, either by natural means or smoke purging.
4. Only single basement floor is involved.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3a.(4)(a) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly 2.3.3(a)(iv)(1) |
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(b) Standalone car park
Doors to exit staircases of standalone car park buildings that are without any commercial activities or non-ancillary usage can be omitted, provided that all of the following conditions are complied with:
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3a.(4)(b)
Fire safety engineering simulations using typical model of a 3-storey car park building were carried out to evaluate whether the fire-rated doors to the exit staircases could be omitted. The result was convincing as it
indicated that occupants are able to escape safely to the exit staircases without being subject to untenable conditions in terms of temperature and
visibility. The rationale of stipulating exit opening size is to avoid total
removal of the staircase enclosures. Other supporting reasons include cross ventilation and low occupancy.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3a.(4)(b) : Exit staircase
( No illustration )
Fire modelling using a typical model of a 3-storey car park building to evaluate whether the fire-rated doors to exit staircases within the MSCP could be permitted. The results gathered from the study indicated that occupants are able to escape safely from the staircases without being subject to untenable conditions in terms of temperature and visibility.
To qualify for the omission of the fire-rated doors in standalone car park building, the exit staircase must be positioned as remotely from one another as possible. The rationale of stipulating exit opening size is to avoid total removal of the staircase enclosures. In addition, the car park buildings must be without commercial activity or non-ancillary usage. The 3m buffer separation distance between the exit door and the nearest car park lot is intended to provide unobstructed movements to occupants getting in and out of the staircase. The omission of fire door to exit staircases is a relaxation and will eliminate maintenance aspects.
(i) The car park building shall not exceed five storeys above ground. It shall not consist of any basement storey, and shall not be connected to any other building, except by open-sided covered link-way.
(ii) At least two exit staircases shall be provided to serve every upper storey. The two staircases shall be located as remotely from one another as practicable. The exit openings to the staircases at each storey shall have a clear width of not more than 1m or less than 850mm and a clear height of not more than 2m. The staircases shall be ventilated by fixed openings in the external walls, such openings being of area not less than 10% of the floor area per floor of the staircase. Exit staircase and occupancy area shall not share the same air well or void for lighting and ventilation.
(iii) Every storey shall be provided with cross ventilation. The building shall be open-sided having not less than 50% of the sides (front, rear and sides elevations) permanently open, with such openings being evenly distributed around the perimeter walls, excluding perimeter walls to air well, so as to provide effective cross ventilation to all parts of the car parking decks.
(iv) No part of the floor space shall be more than 12m from the openings on the perimeter walls of the building or air wells. Air wells where provided for this purpose shall have a superficial plan area of not less than 10m², and have a minimum dimension on plan of 2m, open vertically to the sky for its full height.
(v) The travel distance within each car parking deck shall comply with Table 2.2A. For upper
storeys, the travel distance requirement shall be measured to a position where the exit door to the staircase would have been installed if otherwise required.
(vi) The separation distance between the nearest edge of exit opening to exit staircase and the nearest edge of any vehicle parking lot shall not be less than 3m.
b. External exit staircase
Amendment History
| 2.3.3b. |
1 Mar 2022 |
1 Mar 2022 |
Clarification |
External exit staircase (1) An exit staircase can qualify as an external exit staircase if no part of it is recessed more than 3m from the building façade and has: (a) minimum two adjacent sides abutting an external space; or (b) one of its longest sides abutting the external space. |
1 Mar 2022 |
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(1) An exit staircase can qualify as an external exit staircase provided it complies with Cl.1.4.49.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3b.(1) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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(2) An external exit staircase can be used as required exit in-lieu of internal exit staircase provided:
(a) it complies with the requirements for exit staircase, and
(b) there is no unprotected opening, or combustible material/construction within 3m horizontally or within 3m vertically below, or adjacent or facing it.
Exception:
In a building designed with external corridor access, the access to the external exit staircase can be by means of the open-sided external corridor adjoining the occupancy areas, subject to the following:
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3b.(2)(b)
The minimum separation distances between openings of an external exit staircase and nearby unprotected openings shall be maintained. This is to reduce the risk of smoke and fire spreading into the internal exit staircase
during a fire emergency.
Comparing to the internal exit staircase, a horizontal separation distance of 3m is mandated. This is because an external exit staircase has less protected enclosure.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3b.(2)(b) : Exit Staircase
(b)-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=def0a5fd_1 "Fg.2.3.3b(2)(b)-1")
Elevation
Figure 2.3.3b.(2)(b) - 1
(b)-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=4ffa76ba_1 "Fg.2.3.3b(2)(b)-2")
Figure 2.3.3b.(2)(b) - 2
Requirements on setback requirements under Cl.3.5 shall be used to determine the separation distance between building’s openings at A and staircase’s openings at B, subject to minimum 3m.
Heat radiation from a fire through external window in part of the building at (A) would affect occupants escaping down the external staircase at (B). To avoid this situation, the separation distance between that part of the building and the staircase shall comply with the separation requirements under Cl.3.5.
Cl.3.5 would prescribe the separation distance between that part of the building (A) and the external staircase (B) in accordance with the amount of unprotected openings provided in the external wall to part of the building (A).
Alternatively, to omit the unprotected openings in the external wall of staircase (B) facing part of the building (A).
(b)-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=ed647d7_1 "Fg.2.3.3b(2)(b)-3")
Figure 2.3.3b.(2)(b) - 3
(No illustration)
Figure 2.3.3b.(2)(b) - 4
(i) the external corridor shall be served by at least two exit staircases; and
(ii) unobstructed ventilation openings shall be provided along the long side of the external corridor above the parapet or balustrade; and
(c) its final discharge leads directly to an external space.
(3) Fire-rated doors to the external exit staircases shall be provided unless the conditions given in Cl.2.3.3a(4) are fully complied with.
(1) All exit staircases shall discharge at ground level directly into:
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3c.(1) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=7e640bec_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(1)-1")
Left Figure : Section
Right Figure : Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.3c.(1) - 1
Note : This relaxation follows the exemption for sprinkler provision for external open-sided linkways not exceeding 5m in width. There shall be strictly no commercial activities or storage within these areas.
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=d231f5f0_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(1)-2")
Section
Figure 2.3.3c.(1) - 2
-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=48962741_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(1)-3")
Section
Figure 2.3.3c.(1) - 3
Exit staircase is provided with discharge into unenclosed bridge leading to safe exterior space at ground level.
PROVISION OF ADEQUATE SEPARATION BETWEEN COMMERCIAL SPACES AND EXIT PATH
Currently, the code allows minimum 50% of the staircase exits in a sprinkler-protected building to be discharged through the ground level circulation space, which must be within 10m from exterior safe area. As there is possibility that part of the circulation space is used for commercial activities such as shops and kiosks, the SCDF conducted a study on the effect of radiation from a fire involving such commercial activities on occupants evacuating pass them. The intent of the study is therefore to look into the provision of an adequate separation between commercial activities on provision of an adequate separation between commercial spaces and the escape path such that radiation from the shop/kiosk fire would not jeopardize the occupants’ safety.
The SCDF has conducted the study through the use of CFD modelling. In the study, a sprinkler controlled 5MW shop fire was adopted. The study is confined to radiation from fire at the shop and it is assumed that the building is installed with engineered smoke control system. The study found that a minimum of 10m separation distance is needed between the commercial activities and the designated escape, as illustrated below.
-4.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=dde8c6f3_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(1)-4")
Figure 2.3.3c.(1) - 4
Standard distance between shop and designated escape route
Amendment History
| 2.3.3c.(1) |
15 Mar 2021 |
15 Mar 2021 |
Revised |
Discharge All exit staircases shall discharge at ground level directly into: (a) an external space, or (b) an open-sided external corridor with no commercial activity and is not more than 5m from the building eave line, or (c) an open-to-sky corridor having minimum width of 1.2m and two-way escape paths leading to an external space. Any unprotected openings along the corridor shall not be located lower than 1.8m from the floor level. |
15 Sep 2020 |
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(a) an external space, or
(b) an open-sided external corridor with no commercial activity and is not more than 5m from the building eave line, or
(c) an open-to-sky corridor having minimum width of 1.2m. and two-way escape paths leading to an external space. Any unprotected openings along the corridor shall not be located lower than 1.8m from the floor level.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3c.(1)(c) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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(d) an air well of size complying with Table 1.4.2 and with discharge point at the grade level having at least 2 separated egress routes with direct access through circulation space to the building
external.
(2) In a sprinkler-protected building, a maximum of 50% of the total number of exit staircase can be discharged directly to the ground level covered circulation space provided all of the following are complied with:
(a) The discharge point of the exit staircase into the ground level circulation space shall be within sight of and with direct access to an external space.
(b) The maximum distance between the discharge point of an exit staircase and the external space shall not exceed 10m.
(c) Where there are commercial activities e.g. shops or kiosks/carts located along one side or both sides of the designated escape passageway leading to an external space, a minimum separation distance of 10m shall be maintained between the commercial activities and the designated escape passageway. The circulation space shall also be installed with engineered smoke control system. Alternatively, the commercial activities shall be fire compartmented with walls and doors of minimum 1-hr fire resistance rating.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3c.(2)(c)
A study on the effect of radiation from a fire involving such commercial
activities on occupants evacuating pass them was initiated. In the study, a sprinkler controlled 5MW shop fire was adopted. The study concluded that a minimum of 10m separation distance is needed between the commercial activities and the designated escape route to ensure the radiation is at the
acceptable level along the escape path.
(d) The clear width of the exit doors leading to an external space shall be adequate to receive the occupant load in the 1st storey circulation space and the total number of people discharging from the internal exit staircases.
(3) In the case of a PG II residential building not fitted with an automatic sprinkler system, at least 50% of the total number of exit staircases shall discharge to an external space and the remaining exit staircase can be discharged to the ground level covered circulation space provided the following are complied with:
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3c.(3) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=62d0f0d3_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(2)-1")
Figure 2.3.3c.(3) - 1 : Spaces consisting exit discharge
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=4262e4e3_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(2)-2")
Figure 2.3.3c.(3) - 2
Building occupants with path of travel from the termination of an exit to a public way. This path of travel might be inside the building, or outside. Where an exit opens onto an alley, court, or yard, a safe path of travel is to be provided to a public way or some equivalent safe area. This portion of the means of egress is the exit discharge.
Forms of exit discharge are shown in Figure 2.3.3c.(3) - 1 as shaded areas.
(a) the ground level covered circulation space shall be free of any commercial activity;
(b) the discharge point into the ground level circulation space shall be within sight of and provided with at least two alternative routes to an external space;
(c) the maximum distance between the discharge point of an exit staircase and the external space shall not exceed 10m;
(d) there shall not be more than four residential units opening into the designated escape passageway at grade level into which the exit staircase discharges; and
(e) the discharge point of an exit staircase shall be effectively cross- ventilated such that:
(i) each end has at least 50% permanent openings; and
(ii) no part of the circulation space shall be more than 10m from the openings on the perimeter walls of the building or air well.
(4) There shall be no unprotected openings of occupancy area or combustible material/construction within 3m from discharge point of the exit staircase (both internal and external). This distance can be reduced to 1.5m if the unprotected openings are along the same plane of the staircase exit.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3c.(4)
The specification of minimum distance between exit staircase discharge and nearby unprotected opening serves to minimize the risk of evacuees being affected by fire and smoke emitting from openings close to the staircase discharge. These distances specified have been validated through fire engineering study.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3c.(4) : Exit staircase
(e)(iii)-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=5e30dfb3_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(2)(e)(iii)-1")
Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.3c.(4) - 1
If an unprotected opening was next to the exit staircase, a separate distance of 3m was required. However, this distance can be reduced to 1.5m horizontal distance if the unprotected openings are along the same plane of the staircase exit.
(e)(iii)-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=64facd88_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(2)(e)(iii)-2")
Figure 2.3.3c.(4) - 2
(e)(iii)-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=55eb8caf_1 "Fg.2.3.3c(2)(e)(iii)-3")
Figure 2.3.3c.(4) - 3
(5) There shall be no obstruction or any object encroaching, including any door swinging, onto the egress path at the discharge point of the exit staircase. The width of the egress path at the discharge point shall not be less than the width of the exit staircase.
d. Minimum width and capacity
The minimum width and capacity of exit staircases shall be as specified in Table 2.2A, and
such staircases shall comply with all of the following:
(1) Winders
Winders are not permitted in any building other than for access staircases in a residential unit and in such cases, there shall be not more than one winder per 90° turn.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3d.(1)
A winder is a tapered tread used to change the direction of a stairway. As it introduces a sudden change in the stair geometry, a winder could cause unwary occupants to trip and fall.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(1) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=381cd5cf_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(1)-1")
Figure 2.3.3d.(1) - 1
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=23ff99fb_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(1)-2")
Figure 2.3.3d.(1) -2
Winders are only permitted in access staircase within the residential unit. They shall not be provided in exit staircase. Winder is a tapered tread used to change the direction of a stairway. As it introduces a sudden change in the stair geometry, winder could cause unwary occupants to trip and thus winder is not permitted in non-residential building.
(2) Treads for circular staircase
Where a circular staircase is used as an exit staircases or access staircase in PG I & II buildings, the width of treads measured at the narrower end shall be not less than 100mm in residential buildings and 125mm in other buildings and at a distance of half metre from the narrower end shall be not less than 225mm in residential buildings and 250mm in other buildings. Such staircase shall not be more than 10m in height.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(2) : Exit staircase
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=c992330d_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(2)")
Figure 2.3.3d.(2) : Circular staircase
Circular staircases are not recommended for use as exit staircases due to their varying tread size, which can cause escaping occupants to lose footing and falling more frequently than straight run staircases. However, it may be permitted with limitations
as provided for under Cl.2.3.7, or otherwise consented by the SCDF.
(3) Landings
The minimum clear width and length of a landing, where there is a change in direction, shall not be less than the clear width of the exit staircase.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3d.(3)
In view that BCA does not have any specific requirements for staircase landings, risers, treads and headroom for specific usages or spaces and has removed them from its code. These requirements are reinstated in this edition of the Fire Code to ensure the exit staircases meet minimum requirements for safe evacuation of occupants and access by firefighters for rescue and firefighting.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3d.(3) to (5) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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(4) Risers and treads
The height of the riser for any exit staircase shall not be more than 175mm and depth of tread shall not be less than:
(a) 225mm within residential units and 275mm for common areas of residential buildings;
(b) 250mm for PG VI and VIII buildings; and
(c) 275mm for all other buildings.
(5) Headroom
The clear headroom shall be at least 2m measured from the pitch line of the exit staircase or finished floor level of the landing to the underside of any obstruction.
(6) Handrails
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3d.(6)
Handrail provides support for occupants using the staircase. It also serves as a guide when smoke enters the staircase in a quantity sufficient to interfere with one’s vision, or when the exit staircase emergency lighting system fails. Staircase of not more than 1.25m in width is not too wide and evacuees using it can easily reach the handrail for support/guidance if necessary.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(6) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=bd551318_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(6)-1")
Figure 2.3.3d.(6) - 1
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=5981925c_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(6)-2")
Figure 2.3.3d.(6) - 2
Handrail provides support for people using the stair. It also serves as a guide when smoke enters the stairway in a quantity sufficient to interfere with ones vision or when the stair lighting system fails. Handrail may be constructed of timber or metal with plastic finish.
(a) Every exit staircase shall have handrails on both sides. For exit staircases with only 1.25m or less in width, a handrail can be provided only at one side, i.e. the opposite side shall be either wall, parapet or grilles.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3d.(6)(a) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.2.3.3(e)(i) |
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(b) Where the width of the exit staircase exceeds 2m, handrails shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Cl.2.2.8.
(7) Ventilation
All exit staircases shall be ventilated by fixed openings in the external walls, such openings being of area not less than 10% of the floor area per floor of the staircase, or mechanically ventilated to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7. Ventilation
openings fronting an air well, external recessed space or external shall be in accordance with Table 1.4.2.
Mechanical ventilation is not allowed for PG II, except for a staircase storey shelter.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3d.(7)
The minimum ventilation openings stipulated provide effective smoke ventilation for exit staircases. These dimensions have been validated through fire engineering study.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(7) : Exit stiarcase
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=6760ca47_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(7)")
Section
Figure 2.3.3d.(7)
Exit staircase and occupancy area shall not share the same air well or void for lighting and ventilation to prevent smoke from being drawn into the staircase, unless otherwise permitted by the SCDF.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3d.(7) |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Clarification |
All exit staircases shall be ventilated by fixed openings in the external walls, such openings being of area not less than 10% of the floor area per floor of the staircase, or mechanically ventilated to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7. Ventilation openings fronting an air well, external recessed space or external shall be in accordance with Table 1.4.2. An exit staircase and occupancy area shall not share the same air well or void for lighting and ventilation. Mechanical ventilation is not allowed for PG II, except for a staircase storey shelter. |
10 May 2019 |
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(8) Pressurisation
In any building, except PG II for which the habitable height exceeds 24m, any internal exit staircases without provision for natural ventilation shall be pressurised to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7. In a building comprising more than four basement storeys, the exit staircase connecting to the fire lift lobby shall be pressurised.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(8) : Exit staircase
( No illustration )
In addition to the provision of pressurisation, the entry into the internal staircase shall be through a smoke-stop lobby. The smoke-stop lobby acts as a buffer to prevent smoke from getting into the staircase. It is not common to have pressurised staircase for buildings under PG II.
Where the internal exit staircase is pressurised, there shall be a means to activate the pressurisation fan system.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3d.(8) |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Clarification |
In any building for which the habitable height exceeds 24m, any internal exit staircases without provision for natural ventilation shall be pressurised to comply with the requirements in Chapter 7. In a building comprising more than four basement storeys, the exit staircase connecting to the fire lift lobby shall be pressurised. |
10 May 2019 |
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(9) Different modes of ventilation within a single staircase shaft
For buildings exceeding 24m in habitable height, the internal exit staircase can be naturally ventilated at its upper part and mechanically ventilated at its lower part provided this lower part does not exceed 24m in habitable height and there shall not be any intermediate staircase landing door separating the two modes of ventilation. If the lower part exceeds 24m in habitable height, this lower part shall be pressurised instead. For pressurisation of exit staircase, an intermediate staircase landing door is permitted.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.3d.(9)
This clause serves to address different modes of ventilation allowed within a single staircase shaft. Door at landing is only permitted for a partially pressurised internal exit staircase for the purpose of maintaining positive pressure within the staircase.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.3d.(9) : Exit staircase
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=33922a63_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(9)-1")
Section
Figure 2.3.3d.(9) - 1
This is a relaxation towards the mode of ventilation whereby the lower part of exit staircase is mechanically ventilated instead of pressurised. This provision is only possible if the habitable height of the lower part of staircase shaft is less than 24m. No door is required within the staircase shaft to separate different mode of ventilation provision.
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=5a60df0e_1 "Fg.2.3.3d(9)-2")
Section
Figure 2.3.3d.(9) - 2
Lower part of staircase shaft where habitable height exceeding 24m, it shall be pressurised. Door at the mid-landing separating the naturally ventilated and pressurised portion of exit staircase shall be provided to enable effective pressurisation.
Amendment History
| 2.3.3d.(9) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.2.3.3(h) |
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2.3.4 Scissor exit staircase
Scissor exit staircase shall comply with the following:
a. where two separate internal exit staircases are contained within the same enclosure, each exit staircase shall be separated from the other by non- combustible construction having fire resistance for a minimum period equal to that required for the enclosure;
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.4a.-d. : Scissor exit staircase
Figure 2.3.4a.-d.
b. such scissor exit staircases shall comply with all applicable provisions for exit staircase;
c. for exit door openings of scissor exit staircases, the separation distance between the two closer edges of staircase doors shall be at least 7m;
d. where there is only one pair of scissor exit staircases, the door opening into scissor exit staircases shall be spaced at least 1/3 the diagonal dimension of the area to be served in a sprinkler-protected building and ½ the diagonal dimension
in a non-sprinkler-protected building in accordance with Cl.2.3.12; and
e. the ventilation openings of each staircase shall be located on alternate storeys if such openings or windows are serving both staircases on the same wall.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.4e
The purpose of this arrangement of ventilation openings for a scissor exit staircase is to ensure that if one of the staircase if breached, the smoke flowing out from that staircase ventilation opening will not enter into the other staircase.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.4e. : Scissor exit staircase
Section
Figure 2.3.4e. - 1 : Ventilation openings
Ventilation opening sizes are to comply with Cl.2.3.3d(7).
Where there is only one pair of scissor exit staircases, designer shall ensure Cl.2.3.4d. is strictly adhered to. If the minimum 7m is less
than the computed diagonal distance, the designer shall apply the latter diagonal separation distance.
Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.4e. - 2 : Scissor stair
2.3.5 Basement exit staircase
a. Any exit staircase which serves a basement storey of a building, unless otherwise stated in Cl.2.3.3a.(4)(a), shall comply with
all the applicable provisions for exit staircase.
b. Such exit staircase shall not be made continuous with any other exit staircase which serves a non-basement storey of the building.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.5b. : Basement exit staircase
Figure 2.3.5b
c. Separate protected shaft
Basement exit staircases which are vertically aligned with the exit staircases of non-basement storeys shall be separated from such other exit staircases by construction having fire resistance for a minimum period equal to that required for the enclosure.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.5c. : Basement exit staircase
Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.5c
The provision of compartment wall is to separate the basement staircase from the non-basement staircase so that each is located in a separate shaft.
d. Upper storey staircase that continues into basement
Where upper storey staircase is allowed by the SCDF to be continuous with that serving a basement which is naturally ventilated, all of the following shall be complied with:
(1) Entry at basement
The entry into the basement staircase shall be through a protected lobby, or directly from the basement occupancy area provided the door to the basement staircase is at least 1-hr fire-rated.
(2) Barrier
To prevent occupants exiting continuously from upper storeys into the basement storey during an emergency, a physical barrier in the form of a door or gate (self-closing type) shall be provided across the staircase landing at ground level to separate the discharge route of upper storeys from the basement staircase.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.5d.(2)
The barrier serves as a physical restriction to prevent occupants evacuating from upper storeys from continuing into the basement levels. This, with the aid of an exit directional sign, would help to alert occupants in the staircase enclosure that they on the level of exit discharge.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.5d.(2) : Basement exit staircase
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=163d35a4_1 "Fg.2.3.5d(2)")
Figure 2.3.5d.(2) : Interruption of exit stair at level of exit discharge
This can be done by placing a physical barrier, like the gate shown above, to prevent occupants from continuing to the basement in emergency. This, together with the aid of exit directional sign, helps to alert occupants in the stair enclosure that they are on the level of exit discharge.
(3) Smoke-free lobby
A smoke-free lobby shall be provided for entry into the staircase at all storeys, including basement storeys if the staircase serves more than four storeys, including basement storeys.
(4) Signage
Appropriate signage shall be provided inside the staircase enclosure to direct occupants out of the building at ground level.
2.3.6 Hardwood staircase
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.6 : Hardwood staircase
Section
Figure 2.3.6 : Unenclosed staircase
As stringer is considered as part of an element of structure, it shall be of non-combustible material having the necessary fire resistance rating of ½ hour or 1 hour as the case may be under Cl.3.3
Hardwood staircase is allowed to be used as internal access staircase.
a. A hardwood staircase can be used as an internal access staircase in building.
b. Where timber staircases are used in units in PG I and II buildings, which are not under conservation, the structural elements such as the stringer supporting the treads and risers shall be constructed of non-combustible materials.
2.3.7 Spiral staircase
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.7
Spiral staircases are not suited as required exits because they are typically steep and winding, thus causing occupants to take a longer time to complete their descent. The varying thread size also leads to the increased risk of occupants slipping and losing their footings.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.7 : Spiral staircase
Figure 2.3.7
Minimum and maximum dimensions for spiral stairs are shown above. All treads must be identical, and the stair can serve a maximum occupant load of 25 persons. Spiral staircase is slightly different from curved or other geometric staircases, as all its treads must be identical, subject to a height restriction of 10m and being located on the external facade of the building to qualify as exit staircase.
As spiral staircase is very steep and winding, the time taken by occupants to exit downwards during an emergency would be much longer, hence there is a need to limit the occupant load to max. 25 persons. In permitting the spiral staircase to be used as exit staircase in case of fire, and for rescue and firefighting operations by firefighters, the width of the staircase should not be less than 750mm. This width would be just adequate to permit movement of firefighters in full body gear and carrying casualties in moving down the stair.
a. Spiral staircases shall not serve as required exits, unless they comply with all of the following conditions. They shall:
1. be external and unenclosed;
2. serve only mezzanine floors, balconies, or any storey of occupant load not exceeding 25 persons;
3. be constructed of non-combustible materials;
4. have a tread length of at least 750mm; and
5. be not more than 10m high.
b. Spiral staircase shall not be designed as the sole means of escape for buildings under PG I and for PG II maisonettes and penthouses.
2.3.8 Exit ramp
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.8
A ramp can be used for vertical exit similar to that of an exit staircase provided its gradients meet the requirements. This is to prevent accidents as steep or abrupt elevations may cause tripping or hamper movement during evacuation.
Internal and external exit ramps can be used as exits in lieu of internal and external exit staircases subject to compliance with Cl.2.3.3 and
all of the following:
a. Slope
The slope of such exit ramps shall not be steeper than 1 in 10.
b. Changes in direction
Exit ramps shall be straight with changes in direction being made at level platforms or landings only, except that exit ramps having a slope not greater than 1 in 12 at any place can be curved.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.8b. : Exit ramp
Figure 2.3.8b. - 1 : Changes in ramp direction
Figure 2.3.8b. - 2 : Circular ramp
Circular ramp having a gradient not greater than 1:12 is acceptable as an exit ramp.
c. Platform
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.8c. :Exit ramp
Figure 2.3.8c.
(1) Level platforms or landings shall be provided at the bottom, at intermediate levels where required and at the top of all exit ramps.
(2) Level platforms shall be provided at each door opening into or from an exit ramp.
(3) The minimum width and length of a platform or landing shall be not less than the width of the ramp, except that on a straight run ramp, the length of the level platform or landing need not be more than 1m.
d. Guards and handrails
Exit ramps shall have walls, guards or handrails and shall comply with the applicable requirements of Cl.2.3.3d. for exit staircases.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.8d. & g. :Exit ramp
Axonometric Section
Figure 2.3.8d. & g.
Occupants using the exit ramp would be able to travel at a quicker pace to exit directly into the exterior space at grade level. As only one level is involved and that final exit is within sight of exiting occupants, there is no need to protect the
ramp with enclosure walls, provided travel distance is measured to the door at grade level and complies with Table 2.2A.
All exit ramps shall be constructed of non-combustible materials to have the necessary fire resistance rating as exit staircase. Similarly, the width of the exit ramp shall have the adequate exit capacity to receive the occupant load from the floor
space it serves.
e. Surface
All exit ramps shall be provided with non-slip surface finishes.
f. Ventilation
Exit ramps shall be ventilated to comply with the requirements for ventilation of exit staircases.
g. Enclosure exemption
Exit ramps serving as means of escape to only one basement storey need not be protected by enclosure walls.
2.3.9 Exit doors and exit access doors
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9 : Exit doors & exit access doors
Figure 2.3.9 - 1
Exit door opening into the exit staircase must satisfy the following requirements:
1. The dotted lines indicate the space that would be used by occupants exiting in the staircase.
2. Exit doors to Industrial or warehouse units may open inward as shown in Figure 2.3.9 - 1 if the conditions mentioned Cl.2.3.9 can be complied with. However they are normally constructed to open outwards due to its usually larger than 50 occupant load.
3. Exit doors which consist of 2 leaves, the smaller leaf is not required to be provided with sequential door closer if it is bolted in closed position and the clear width of opening of the larger leaf is not less than 850mm.
4. Providing locking devices to exit door to exit staircase would hamper escape, unless there is other means of meeting both security and fire safety requirements. Usually, the final exit door of exit staircases at ground level are allowed to be provided with one-way locking mechanism for security reason, such as panic hardware or push bar opening devices.
5. Provision of one-way locking devices hooked to the alarm system shall not be allowed unless otherwise permitted via waiver applications by the SCDF.
6. In situations where the door of the industrial or warehouse unit opens directly into the staircase enclosure, there would be a need to provide locking devices to the door for security reasons.
Figure 2.3.9 - 2
Door A - One-way locking device is allowed, provided it is linked to the building’s fire alarm system.
Door B & C - One-way locking device allowed (e.g. panic bolt, thumb turn or card access system with provision for unhindered exit in an emergency)
Figure 2.3.9 - 3
Doors A & D - One-way locking device allowed, provided it is linked to building’s fire alarm system. (e.g. panic bolt, thumb turn, card access system with provision for unhindered exit in an emergency)
Door B - One-way locking device allowed (door fitted with vision panel)
Door C - One-way locking device allowed
Door E - Locking device allowed, provided the fire wardens to ensure that persons stranded will be released and intercom system is linked to FCC.
Figure 2.3.9 - 4 : Multi-tenancy with corridor
Doors A & B - One-way locking device allowed provided it is linked to building’s fire alarm system.
Door C - One-way locking device allowed (e.g. panic bolt, thumb turn or card access system with provision for unhindered exit in an emergency).
Door to the exit staircase adjacent to a fire lift shall not be fitted with any form of locking device. This would facilitate the firefighters to gain re-entry at any floor for the purposes of conducting firefighting and rescue operations.
However, for security reasons, doors to exit staircases adjacent to fire lifts and selected re-entry doors to exit staircases are allowed to be fitted with one-way locking device that is linked to the building’s fire alarm system. Upon activation of the fire alarm system, the locking device would be unlocked. It shall be a fail-safe system.
Exit door opening into the exit staircase must satisfy the following requirements:
1. Exit door opening into the exit staircase shall satisfy the requirements above. The dotted lines indicate the space that would be used by occupants exiting in the staircase.
2. Exit doors to units A & B in the Figure 2.3.9 - 1 are shown to open inward. It is allowed if the exit door does not serve a room or space with more than 50 persons.
3. Where an exit door consists of 2 unequal leaves, the smaller leaf may not be required to be provided with sequential closer if it is bolted in closed position, provided the clear width of opening of the larger leaf is not less than 1m, and able to meet the full exit capacity in terms of units of width required.
4. Doors on escape routes
Normally a door used for means of escape should open in the direction of escape. It should always do so : -
a. if it is from a room in which a fire may develop very rapidly e.g. kitchen etc., or
b. if the door is from an area from which more than 50 persons may be required to escape e.g. exit doors to auditorium, multi-purpose hall function room, etc. should be kept unlocked at all times when people are in the building and should be fastened so that they can be immediately opened by persons escaping without the use of a key. The door should be fastened only by means of panic bolt or panic bolt fastening which ensures that it can be readily opened by pressure applied by occupants using the door. Panic bolts and panic latches should be properly maintained at all times.
5. The door should also: -
a. be hung so that, when open, it does not obstruct any escape route;
b. open through not less than 90 degrees; and
c. be provided with a vision panel if it is hung to swing both ways.
6. Self-closing devices for doors
All fire doors except those to cupboards and service ducts should be fitted with self-closing devices to ensure the positive closure of the door. Generally, rising butt hinges are not acceptable. Fire doors to cupboards, service ducts and any vertical shafts linking floors should be kept locked shut when not in use.
Exit doors and exit access doors shall comply with all of the following:
a. Door operation
Exit doors shall be capable of being opened manually, without the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge or effort for operation from the inside of the building. (Not applicable to buildings under PG I & II)
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9a
Occupants of PG I & II buildings are familiar with the floor layouts and exit facilities of their own premises. Hence, there isn’t any need to control how the exit doors of the units should be secured in order not to hamper escape during an emergency.
b. Fire resistance
Exit doors which are required to have fire resistance rating shall comply with the relevant provisions for fire resisting doors under Cl.3.9.2.
c. Door swing
Exit doors and exit access doors shall open in the direction of exit travel in the following situations:
(1) when leading to an area of refuge, exit and exit passageway, or
(2) when used in an exit enclosure, including smoke-free and fire lift lobbies in a building, but excluding doors of individual residential units that open directly into an exit enclosure, or
(3) when serving a high hazard area, or
(4) when serving a room or space with more than 50 persons.
d. Exit door opening
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9d
Doors located along escape routes should preferably swing in the direction of escape to facilitate smooth evacuation. This requirement is especially important for exit access doors serving more than 50 persons and all exit doors.
(1) Opening into exit staircase
Exit doors opening into exit staircases and exit passageways shall not impede the egress of occupants when such doors are swung open.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9d.(1) : Exit doors & exit access doors
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=e5a8d7b3_1 "Fg.2.3.9d(1)")
Figure 2.3.9d.(1)
Doors serving as main entrance into an enclosed stair shall not unduly block the stair landing or the stairs. The door shall not reduce the required width either during its swing or while at rest, i.e. B shall be > A and C shall be < 80mm.
(2) Opening into corridor
All doors which open into the corridor shall not hinder the movement of occupants. When such a door(s) is swung open, the corridor’s clear width shall be at least half of the required clear width as stipulated under Table 2.2A.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9d.(2) : Exit doors & exit access doors
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=b4cfc650_1 "Fg.2.3.9d(2)")
Figure 2.3.9d.(2)
Doors in horizontal exits shall not be required to swing in the direction of egress travel if the occupant load within the unit space is less than 50 persons.
Doors A & B are positioned directly each other. It is to be noted that doors shall not be arranged to swing in a direction that blocks the use of the corridor when both are open.
(3) Opening force
The maximum exit doors and exit access doors opening force shall be 30N at 0° and 20N at 30° opening.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9d.(3) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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e. Vision panel
The fire door to a protected staircase and smoke-free/ fire lift lobby shall be constructed to incorporate a vision panel. The vision panel shall have a clear view size of 100mm width by 600mm height. The vision panel shall have the requisite fire resistance rating and shall not turn opaque when subject to heat. The bottom edge of the vision panel shall be located at 900mm above the finished floor level. The provision of vision panel shall not apply to fire doors of residential apartment or maisonette units.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9e
The main purpose of vision panel is to enable firefighters to appreciate the fire situation within the occupied spaces before entering. It will also help to prevent wheelchair users from being accidentally struck/knocked by the door swing. The revised vision panel mounting height of 1200mm to 900mm was also found to be suitable for use by wheelchair users.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9e. : Exit doors & exit access doors
Figure 2.3.9e.
1. Fire doors with vision panels 60,000 m² shall pass the fire test under BS 476: Part 20 – 23.
2. Fire rated glass doors shall only be permitted in sprinkler-protected buildings. In addition, any oversized (>60,000mm²) glass panels in the doors and fire-rated glass doors shall meet the Class A of the Impact Performance requirements when
subject to test under BS 6206 or AS 2208. To overcome direct heat radiation through the doors, the oversized glass doors or fire-rated glass doors would be required to pass the fire test on insulation requirements under BS 476: Part 20 – 23,
subject to complying with Cl.3.15.13, which prohibits fire rated glass door to protected shafts containing exit staircase and
fire lift. The lowering of vision panel to height not higher than 900mm and top edge lower than 1500mm is in line with the Accessibility Code requirement and enable firefighter to appreciate the situation during a fire emergency.
There is no need to provide vision panel to the entrance door of residential units.
f. Revolving doors
Revolving doors shall not be used as exit doors for required exits.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9f
Owing to the high possibility of jamming, revolving doors cannot be accepted as exit doors for escape purposes. When a revolving door is present, an exit door with an exit sign shall be provided adjacent to it.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9f. : Exit doors & exit access doors
( No illustration )
Revolving doors are not acceptable as exit door as the revolving mechanism would mal-function and the speed of egress is slow.
Due to the risk of jamming, conventional type of revolving doors are not normally allowed as doors for means of escape purposes. Where such door is used, exit door must be clearly indicated with exit sign.
g. Exit door of residential unit
Exit door of each residential unit shall be located at not more than 500mm from the strata-title line to prevent the creation of a large entrance alcove/ corridor. However, in situations where the entrance alcove/corridor leads into an open- sided common
corridor which meets the requirements for smoke-free approach under Cl.9.2.1a.(4)(e) & (f), the separation distance between the entrance alcove/corridor and the nearest exit staircase shall
not be less than 3m.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9g
The purpose of controlling the depth and location of the entrance alcove/corridor is to limit/prevent storage of combustible items within this space and to maintain the integrity of the egress path and the exit staircase(s).
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9g. : Exit doors & exit access doors
Figure 2.3.9g. - 1 : Not acceptable layout
Figure 2.3.9g. - 2 : Acceptable layout
Figure 2.3.9g. - 3
Separation distance between grilles/gate and exit staircase shall not be less than 3m.
h. Door located in a path of travel
(1) Any door located in a path of travel shall be of the side-hinged or pivoted swing type. The door shall be designed and installed so that when swung open, it does not prevent full use of the opening. The minimum clear width of the door opening shall not be less than the required door clear width.
(a) Requirement on door swing shall not apply to buildings under PG I and residential units under PG II.
(b) Locking device
With prior consent from the SCDF, locking of exit doors is permissible at certain rooms or spaces of healthcare occupancies and detention and correctional occupancies.
(c) Sliding doors & roller shutters
Sliding door and roller shutter as listed in Cl.2.3.9h.(2)(a) to (e) below are permitted to be installed across the exit access leading to exits, including the exterior door openings, except in areas stipulated under Cl.2.3.9c.(1) and (3). These doors shall not form part of the fire compartment integrity.
(2) Manually operable sliding doors/roller shutters
(a) Manually operable sliding doors or roller shutters shall be capable of being opened and closed manually from either side of the door. The maximum opening force for sliding doors/roller shutters shall not be more than 30N.
(b) A manually operable sliding door or roller shutter that can remain in closed position during the period of occupation is permitted for rooms or spaces with occupant load not exceeding 50 persons. When opened, it shall not reduce the effective width/height of the doorway leading to the escape route. The sliding door or roller shutter is allowed for room or space that serves more than 50 persons provided it shall remain in the full open position during the period of occupation. A readily discernible sign with the lettering “THIS DOOR TO REMAIN OPEN WHEN THE BUILDING IS OCCUPIED” shall be permanently pasted on both sides of such a sliding door or roller shutter at a height of 1.4m from the finished floor level. The lettering shall be 25mm in height and painted in white on a red background with reflective surface.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9h.(2)(b) : Exit doors & exit access doors
( No illustration )
If the occupant load to a room or space exceeds 50 persons, sliding door or roller shutter located across means of escape shall be kept in the open position during the period when the premise is occupied. The main concern is that extra effort and time would be needed to manually open the roller shutter or sliding door. Alternatively, wicket door can be built into the roller shutter or sliding door.
For warehouse buildings, most of the time the warehouse area would not be occupied unless there is a need to move goods or materials in or out of the building. Also, the actual number of people occupying a warehouse is usually very low.
For the above reasons, when the warehouse area is occupied, selected roller shutters or sliding doors that are not provided with wicket doors and located across means of escape would be kept in the open position to provide the required means of escape in an emergency.
However, should any warehouse building be open to the public for the purpose of Warehouse Sale, all the roller shutters or sliding doors, that are not fitted with wicket doors and located across the means of escape in the warehouse area, are required to be kept in the open position when the premise is occupied.
In areas provided with A/C or MV and the roller shutters or sliding doors are required to be kept in the closed position most of the times, wicket doors shall be incorporated into the roller shutters or sliding doors. Alternatively, a by-pass exit door shall be provided next to the roller shutter or sliding door that is to be kept in the closed position most of the times.
All roller shutters or sliding doors that are not provided with wicket doors and located across means of escape are required to be kept in the open position when premise is occupied.
(c) Wicket door
A wicket door can be incorporated within a roller shutter or sliding door. The wicket door shall be of the swing type having a minimum head height of 2m and a clear width of not less than the required door clear width. The wicket door shall comply with all the requirements of an exit access door, and be clearly marked and readily visible so that the occupants can readily see where the door is. It shall be fitted only with simple fastenings that can be manually operated for ease of escape.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9h.(2)(c) : Exit doors & exit access doors
(c).tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=8fca89b_1 "Fg.2.3.9h(2)(c)")
Axonometric view
Figure 2.3.9h.(2)(c) : Wicket door
Wicket doors are permitted to be incorporated within a roller shutter or sliding door. The wicket doors shall be able to perform the same functions as side hinged door and shall be able to be swung open in the direction of exit travel when used. Wicket doors shall comply with all requirements of exit access door, clearly marked and readily visible.
(d) Sliding door with swing-out feature
A sliding door which can be swung open shall swing in the direction of escape travel when a certain horizontal force is applied to the door. When the sliding door is converted to a swing door, it shall comply with all the requirements of an exit access door. The maximum door opening force shall be 30N at 0° and 20N at 30° opening. A readily visible sign with the letterings “IN EMERGENCY, PUSH TO OPEN” shall be affixed onto the door.
(e) Power operated sliding doors/roller shutters
Power operated automatic sliding doors/roller shutters, shall be linked to the building fire alarm system. The sliding door/ roller shutter shall automatically open to the required width/ height (of door opening) upon the activation of the fire alarm. The automatic sliding door/ roller shutter shall also comply with all of the following:
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9h.(2)(e) : Exit doors & exit access doors
( No illustration )
Members of the public and building owners opined that powered sliding doors, roller shutters and swing doors that belong to unit owners or tenants should not be linked to the building fire alarm system. The main concern is that in the event of false alarm, such doors would be activated to open, thus posing security risk to the unit owners and tenants.
In response to the feedback, it was decided that powered sliding doors, roller shutters and swing doors that belong to the unit owners or tenants are not required to be linked to the building fire alarm system, provided that they are designed fail safe type, installed with manual over-ride, and do not form part of the building’s protection system, for example, smoke control systems.
(i) Fail-safe type
The automatic sliding doors/roller shutters shall be of the fail safe type. Should there be any fault in the electrical or sensor device, or any power failure (either mains or battery powered), these doors shall automatically open and remain in an open position until power is restored.
(ii) Manual override
A manual override mechanism (a device to trigger the immediate opening of sliding doors/roller shutters) shall be provided. The doors shall open and remain open upon activation of this device. This device shall be housed in a break glass box located beside the sliding doors or roller shutters and fixed at a height of 1.2m above the finished floor level. It shall be easily accessible, conspicuous and be free from obstructions. A readily discernible sign with the lettering “EMERGENCY DOOR RELEASE” shall be permanently displayed beside the switch. The letterings shall be of at least 15mm in height.
Exception: Powered sliding doors, roller shutters and swing doors that belong to the unit owners or tenants are not required to be linked to the building fire alarm system, provided they are designed as fail-safe type, installed with manual override, and do not form part of the building’s fire protection system, e.g. smoke control system.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9h.(2)(e)(ii)
The provision of manual override mechanism is an additional measure to ensure occupants can still get out of their unit should the powered-operated door/shutter failed to open its door/shutter on activation of the building fire alarm and/or localised detector.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9h.(2)(e)(ii) |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Change in requirements |
A manual override mechanism (a device to trigger the immediate opening of sliding doors/roller shutters) shall be provided. The doors shall open and remain open upon activation of this device. This device shall be housed in a break glass box located beside the sliding doors or roller shutters and fixed at a height of 1.4m above the finished floor level. It shall be easily accessible, conspicuous and be free from obstructions. A readily discernible sign with the lettering “EMERGENCY DOOR RELEASE” shall be permanently displayed beside the switch. The letterings shall be of at least 15mm in height. |
10 May 2019 |
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i. Exit/exit access door serving spaces of mass occupation
Any exit door or exit access door serving spaces of assembly/mass occupation, namely, auditorium, concert hall, theatre, assembly hall, exhibition hall, conference hall, cinema, stadium, function hall, casino, or any other spaces with an occupant load factor of not greater than 1m2/person and occupant load greater than 50, which has to be kept shut and fastened while the building or part of the building is occupied shall be fitted with ‘panic exit device’. The panic exit device shall operate to open the door when a pressure is applied on the bar in the direction of travel and be appropriately marked ‘Push Bar To Open’ in letters not less than 50mm high.
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9i
The purpose of panic exit device is to provide an intuitive means of escape for spaces housing large crowds to prevent stampede in a panic situation.
j. Locking of doors to exit staircase, smoke-free lobby and fire lift lobby
One-way locking device e.g. panic bolt or thumb turn locking device is not permitted under the following situations:
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9j
The specific doors shall not have locking device so as to enable firefighting crews to have direct and immediate access to occupied spaces. This requirement will cut down unnecessary time wasted on breaking open the locked doors.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9j |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.2.3.9(j) |
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(1) for the exit door between exit staircase and fire lift lobby;
(2) for the exit door between exit staircase and smoke-free lobby/fire lift lobby/ occupancy area on re-entry floor; and
(3) for the exit access door between smoke-free lobby/fire lift lobby and occupancy area on re-entry floor.
k.Access control using electromagnetic/electromechanical locking device
(1) Where access control using electromagnetic/ electromechanical locking device is installed on any exit access door and/or exit door, excluding revolving doors and doors to residential units, such doors shall comply with the requirements stipulated in Table 2.3.9k.(1) - 1 & Table 2.3.9k.(1) - 2.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9.k.(1) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.2.3.9(k) |
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(2) Access control belonging to tenanted spaces
Where the escape route is permitted to go through another occupied space in accordance with Cl.2.2.12b.,
the exit access door within the tenant unit for escape purpose shall release when the alarm on that floor activates.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9k.(2) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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| 2.3.9k.(2) (dated 15 Sep 2020) |
15 Sep 2020 |
15 Sep 2020 |
Clarification |
Access control belonging to tenanted spaces Where access control belonging to tenanted spaces are installed with smart card locking device, magnetic bar, electromechanical locking device and the like to prevent unauthorised access, such locking mechanism shall be arranged to unlock from a manual override device in accordance with Cl.2.3.9k.(1)(b). The manual override device serves as a means for occupant to get out of the occupied space during a fire emergency. Any form of staff access control facilitating daily operation shall not be considered as a substitute for manual override device. Cl.2.3.9k.(1)(a) is not applicable to tenanted spaces. |
15 Sep 2020 |
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(3) Where doors opening into a passenger lift lobby are provided with access control and are locked after normal operation hours, the lobby shall be designed to have direct access to at least one exit staircase to prevent any occupant from being trapped in the lobby when the lifts are recalled to the 1st storey, or other designated floor during fire emergency or building power failure.
l. Staircase re-entry
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Rationale - Clause 2.3.9l
The concept of re-entry floor is originated from the recommendation by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) after the 911 incident. The purpose is to facilitate occupants ability to gain access to another exit staircase should the egress via an exit staircase be blocked off or it being rendered unusable in an emergency situation.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.9l. : Exit doors & exit access doors
Section
Figure 2.3.9l. - 1 : Example of a 9-storey building requiring 1 re-entry point to the exit staircase
Occupant A needs not travel more than 3 floors up to gain re-entry at 8th storey .The main purpose of re-entry door is to allow occupants to re-enter the building space to look for an alternative exit via a common corridor. This need would arise if the evacuation descend in the staircase is being held-up because of locked exit door at 1st storey or other reasons.
Section
Figure 2.3.9l. - 2 : Example of a 10-storey building requiring 1 re-entry point to the exit staircase
Occupant B needs to travel 2 floors down to gain re-entry at 8th storey.
Section
Figure 2.3.9l - 3 : Example of a 11-storey building requiring 1 re-entry point to the exit staircase
Occupant B needs to travel not more than 3 floors down to gain re-entry at 8th storey.
Section
Figure 2.3.9l. - 4 : Example of a 12-storey building requiring more than 1 re-entry point to the exit staircase
Occupant B needs to travel more than 3 floors down to gain re-entry at 8th storey. An additional re-entry point to each exit staircase shall be provided.
Section
Figure 2.3.9l. - 5
For staircase enclosures serving more than seven storeys, more than two unlocked re-entry points are required. This arrangement provides flexibility, especially in office buildings that, for security reasons, might need to prevent re-entry on certain floors. At the same time, the provision ensures that one can re-enter the building without having to travel up or down too many flights of stairs. Any door providing a way out of the staircase enclosure must be identified as such on the stairwell side.
Figure 2.3.9l. - 6 : Staircase re-entry floor
Typical office floor plan – Staircase doors that provide re-entry to the floor space shall be linked to at least one other exit staircase via common corridor.
(1) Every exit staircase enclosure serving more than 7 storeys of a non- residential building, excluding buildings of detention and correctional occupancies, shall allow re-entry from the staircase enclosure to the interior of the building. There shall be at least one level where it is possible to re-enter into the interior of the building from the exit staircase enclosure.
(2) The re-entry points shall be located not more than 6 storeys apart. There shall not be more than three storeys above the highest re-entry door in the building.
(3) Where re-entry is provided from the staircase enclosure, it shall open into a common corridor that is connected directly to at least one other exit staircase.
(4) Exit doors permitting re-entry into the building, shall be identified with a signage “Re-entry door” of at least 50mm lettering height on the staircase side of the exit door.
(5) Where locking is required for doors of smoke-free lobby, fire lift lobby or exit staircase on the re-entry floor, they shall be fitted with an electromagnetic/ electromechanical locking device complying with Cl.2.3.9k.(1). For re-entry floor, manual override device shall be provided on both sides of the door.
Amendment History
| 2.3.9l.(5) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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| 2.3.9l.(5) ( dated 15 Sep 2020) |
15 Sep 2020 |
15 Sep 2020 |
Clarification |
Where locking is required for doors of smoke-free lobby, fire lift lobby or exit staircase on the re-entry floor, they shall be fitted with an electro¬mechanical locking device complying with Cl.2.3.9k.(1). Note: Where the doors of exit staircases, smoke-free lobbies or fire lift lobbies are provided with one-way locking device or electromechanical lock, a signage, though not mandatory, should be provided to warn occupants that they would not be able to re-enter the floor should they exit from it. The signage should be positioned at the entrance into exit staircase, smoke-free lobby or fire lift lobby. |
15 Sep 2020 |
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(6) All non-re-entry floors shall be identified with a sign to show the designated re-entry floors on the staircase side of the exit door.
m. Warning signage for exit doors with one-way lock
Where one-way locking devices or electromagnetic/ electromechanical locking devices are installed at the doors of exit staircases, a signage shall be provided to warn occupants that they would not be able to re-enter the floor should they exit from it. A readily visible sign with the lettering “EXIT ONLY, NO RE-ENTRY TO BUILDING” shall be positioned at the entrance into the exit staircase. This signage shall be applicable for all buildings except PG I & II.
2.3.10 External corridor
Amendment History
| 2.3.10 |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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External corridor shall comply with the following requirements:
a. the vertical height of the unobstructed and uninterrupted ventilation opening measured from the parapet wall/balustrade/grille/railing up to the top edge of the opening or eaves of overhang shall not be less than 1.2m;
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.10a. : External corridor
Figure 2.3.10a. - 1 : Safety barrier above parapet wall/balustrade
Safety barrier of dimension not greater than 50 X 50mm or diameter 50mm is permitted to be installed above the parapet wall/balustrade. Where this dimension is exceeded, the required clearance of 1.2m above the parapet wall/balustrade shall be measured from the top of the safety barrier to the underside of the eaves of overhang. There is no control on the installation height "H" of the safety barrier.
Figure 2.3.10a. - 1 : Example of safety barrier
b. where the external corridor is roofed over, the depth of the covered area/portion shall not exceed 3m;
Amendment History
| 2.3.10b |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Clarification |
|
10 May 2019 |
Download
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c. where any room or space with sleeping risk is located along the corridor, a 1-hr fire resistance rating wall of height not less than 1.1m, measured from the finished floor level of the external corridor to the sill level of the opening, shall be provided along the corridor leading to the exits. Any ventilation openings above the fire-rated wall shall be of non-combustible construction;
d. the door opening into the external corridor need not be fire-rated;
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.10d. : External corridor
Figure 2.3.10d.
As external corridors, mentioned in Cl.2.2.13 and Cl.9.2.1a.(7), would be able to provide good venting for smoke and heat, doors of apartment or maisonette units opening into such external corridors, as shown in Figure 2.3.10d., need not have fire resistance
rating.
e. the provision of parapet wall, or balustrade for an external corridor shall be at least 1m in height and at most 1.5m in height along the outer side of the corridor; and
f. the length of unobstructed and uninterrupted openings above the parapet wall of the external wall shall not be less than 6m and shall abut an external space.
Amendment History
| 2.3.10f |
10 May 2019 |
immediate |
Clarification |
the length of external corridor with unobstructed and uninterrupted openings above the parapet wall shall not be less than 6m and shall abut an external space. |
10 May 2019 |
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2.3.11 Air well
Amendment History
| 2.3.11 |
|
01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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a. The minimum size of an air well shall comply with Table 1.4.2 for ventilation
of:
(1) exit staircases; and
(2) exit passageways (as an extension to an exit staircase).
b. An air well shall have a minimum clear area of 93m2 and minimum width of 6m and without obstruction vertically throughout the airspace for ventilation of:
(1) smoke-free lobby;
(2) external corridor;
(3) external exit passageway;
(4) cross-ventilated corridor/lobby;
(5) common internal corridor stipulated under Cl.9.2.1a.(10)(b); and
(6) internal corridor of hotel, hostel, service apartment, healthcare occupancy, workers’ dormitories and the like.
2.3.12 Remoteness of exits
a. Where more than one exit is required from a building or portion thereof, such exits shall be remotely located from each other and shall be arranged and constructed to minimise the possibility that more than one can be rendered unusable by any one fire or other emergency condition.
b. If two exits or exit access doors are required, they shall be placed at a distance from one another equal to or not less than half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served, measured in a straight line
between the furthest edges of the exit doors or exit access doors (see Diagram 2.3.12b. - 1 to
5), subject to the following:
(1) if the distance between the 2 exits or exit access doors is less than half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served, it shall be considered as a one-way escape arrangement;
(2) the separation distance measured in a straight line between the furthest edges of the doors of the two exits (exit staircases, exit passageways or exit ramps) shall not be less than 7m.; and
(3) for PG II buildings, the separation distance of the exits on the residential floor shall not be less than half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the protected lobby/corridor or external corridor.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.12b. : Remoteness of exits
Left : Figure 2.3.12b. - 1
Right : Figure 2.3.12b. - 2
Left : Figure 2.3.12b. - 3
One-way escape arrangement
The distance between the exit of staircases S1 & S2 is less than half the length of the max. overall diagonal dimension of the building or floor space.
Right : Figure 2.3.12b. - 4
Two-way escape arrangement
Exit separation between the exit staircases S1 & S2 can be based on the travel distance in the exit access corridor enclosed with 1-hr fire-rated walls and ½-hr fire-rated door.
Figure 2.3.12b. - 5 : Remoteness of exit staircase - Arrangement of exits
c. Reduction in exit separation
In buildings protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system which complies with the requirements of Chapter 6, the minimum separation distance between two exits or exit access doors measured in accordance with Cl.2.3.12a.& b. shall be not less than one third the length of the maximum overall diagonal
dimension of the building or area to be served. The separation distance measured in a straight line between the furthest edges of the doors of the two exits (exit staircases, exit passageways or exit ramps) shall not be less than 7m.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.12c. : Remoteness of exits
Figure 2.3.12c.
The minimum separation distance (E1) and door (E2) shall not be less than ⅓ the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building (D).
d. Exit separation measured along exit access corridor
Where two exit staircases, exit passageways or exit ramps are inter-connected by a corridor, exit separation can be measured along the line of travel within the exit access corridor. The exit access corridor connecting the exit staircases, exit passageways
or exit ramps shall be protected by minimum 1-hr fire-rated enclosures. Doors opening into this corridor shall have minimum ½-hr fire resistance rating (see Diagram 2.3.12d.). The separation distance measured along the line of travel within the exit access corridor between the furthest edges of the doors of the two exits (exit staircases, exit passageways or exit ramps) shall
not be less than 7m.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.12d. : Remoteness of exits
Figure 2.3.12d. - 1
Remoteness of exits is measured along 1-hr fire-rated corridor with ½-hr fire doors. In place of measuring physical distance between exit stair enclosures, distance for purposes of determining remoteness is permitted to be measured along a protected corridor, provided the separation distance between the furthest edges of the doors of the two exits is not less than 7m.
Figure 2.3.12d. - 2
When there is only one pair of scissor exit staircase, the door opening into scissor exit staircases shall be spaced at least ⅓ the diagonal dimension of the area to be served in a sprinkler-protected building and ½ the diagonal dimension in a non-sprinkler-protected building in accordance with Cl.2.3.12.
Door opening into scissor exit staircase shall be at least 7m measured as travel distance between the two closer edges of the staircase doors. The line of measurement for scissor exit staircase is measured to the nearest edge instead of furthest edge of the exit doors.
e. One-way travel
(1) A one-way travel or “common path” exists if a floor space is arranged or provided with partitioning works such that occupants within that space are able to travel in only one direction to reach any of the exits or to reach the splitting
point where they have the choice of two or more routes of travel to remote exits.
(2) The travel distance from the most remote point to the splitting point shall not exceed the permissible one-way travel distance allowed in Table 2.2A.
At the splitting point, the angle of divergence between any two alternative routes shall not be less than 90º in order that the routes originating from the splitting point can be considered as two-way travel.
(3) The aggregate travel distances of the one-way travel from the most remote point to the splitting point and the continuous two-way travel from the splitting point to the nearest exit shall not exceed the permissible two-way travel distance allowed
in Table 2.2A.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 2.3.12e. : Remoteness of exits
Figure 2.3.12e.
Remoteness of exits is measured along 1-hr fire-rated corridor with ½-hr fire doors. In place of measuring physical distance between exit stair enclosure, distance for purposes of determining remoteness is permitted to be measured along a protected corridor.