Why Are Fire Exits Always Stairs in Buildings?

Safety and Reliability: Fire exits are often stairs due to inherent safety reasons and the reliability they provide. Stairwells are made of strong materials like steel, which make them less likely to fail under extreme conditions such as fire. Elevators, on the other hand, can be a major safety risk if they malfunction or lose power during an emergency. Fire stairs are meticulous about safety and compliance with building codes that mandate the use of non-combustible materials in construction.

Why Staircases Over Elevators?

Automatic Emergency Measures: Elevators can be equipped with a calling system that responds to heat, which is problematic in case of fire. If an elevator is passing a floor on fire, it may stop at that floor and open its doors, leaving the passengers in danger. Similarly, elevators may lose power during a fire, leaving people trapped and potentially stranding them in the building. In such scenarios, elevators can be dangerous.

Another significant issue with elevators in fire incidents is the risk of smoke and flames entering through the elevator shaft. This makes the shaft a giant chimney that can lead to the spread of fire and smoke, making the elevator a trap. Therefore, stairs are a safer option as they do not rely on electricity or any form of control that can fail in a fire.

Fire Department's Perspective

Firefighter Accessibility: Firefighting equipment often requires heavy machinery that cannot be easily moved up and down elevators. Stairs allow firefighters to move quickly from one floor to another with their equipment, which is crucial during a fire. The weight and mobility of firefighting devices are major concerns when using elevators, making stairs the preferred choice for both safety and efficiency.

Building Design and Outdoors Options

Building Construction Specifications: Stairs are not limited to the entrance level. Many high-rise buildings have stairs that lead from one floor to another, not just to the ground level. Some buildings also have outdoor fire escapes or staircases that provide direct access to the ground level, further enhancing safety. These alternatives reduce the reliance on elevators, ensuring a safer environment for building occupants and firefighters.

While the primary choice in most buildings is stairs, especially for underground levels, there can be exceptions. For instance, buildings designed with specific codes might have fire exits that lead directly to the ground level or lower floors. This decision is based on the specific building design, fire codes, and the overall safety considerations for the building's occupants.

Conclusion

In summary, fire exits are designed with stairs for multiple reasons including safety, reliability, and ease of use during emergencies. Stairs provide a dependable and safe path for both occupants and firefighters during a fire. Elevators, while convenient in normal circumstances, can become problematic and dangerous in an emergency, making stairs the preferred choice for fire exits.