APPRAISAL OF SUITABILITY OF FIRE ESCAPE PROCEDURES IN BUILDINGS FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED
No Thumbnail Available
Date
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Description
Background and Aim
Fire escape and emergency evacuation procedures are essential considerations in the design and maintenance of buildings. However, for
individuals living with disabilities, particularly mobility impairment, it is important that extra fire safety considerations are made to enable them
easily exit buildings in the event of a fire outbreak.
The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order [1] places the responsibility of providing comprehensive fire risk assessments, including safe escape
plans for all users, on the person in charge of commercial buildings. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, aims to create inclusive, safe,
and sustainable human settlements. The United Nations (UN) Disability and Development Report [2] highlights the need for accessible housing
(SDG target 11.1) and equal housing access for individuals with disabilities (Article 9).
However, the SDG 11 lacks explicit mention of fire safety and escape protocols. Martin [3] advocates for integrating fire perspectives in the
implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex fire-related issues.
This study is crucial towards achieving SDG 11, promoting equality, and improvement of housing conditions for differently-abled individuals [3].
The aim of this study was to examine fire escape procedures dispatched in buildings to ascertain their suitability for the physically challenged
in the event of a fire outbreak, with a view to identify areas for enhancement.
Keywords
NA Architecture