Are fire escape stairs allowed as a means of egress in existing buildings?

Fire escape stairs are not generally accepted as a means of egress for existing buildings according to current building codes and safety standards. While historically fire escapes were common in older buildings, modern regulations have evolved to prioritize life safety by requiring more reliable, permanent solutions for egress.

Designing and implementing effective means of egress involves ensuring that escape routes are safe, accessible, and adequately protected from hazards such as fire and smoke. Fire escape stairs can present numerous safety concerns, including their exposure to the elements, potential for structural failure, and the difficulty of ensuring they are kept clear and accessible at all times.

In contemporary building practices, especially for new constructions or significant renovations, fire escape stairs are not considered an acceptable primary means of egress. Instead, the focus is on stairways enclosed within the building, designed to remain safe during a fire event, along with increased visibility and easy access to other exits.

Thus, stating that fire escape stairs are not allowed as a means of egress in existing buildings aligns with the understanding of current building safety regulations.