BFB draws attention to the applicable regulations in stairwells
Stairwells and house entrances in apartment buildings must be clear and safe to use at all times, as they serve as vital escape and rescue routes in the event of a fire. The Fire Prevention Advisory Service (BFB) therefore reminds people of the applicable fire safety regulations.
In the event of a fire, stairwells, corridors and building entrances become escape routes for residents. In turn, they are escape routes for the fire department, ambulance service or police. It is therefore important that these places are safe and free of flammable materials. The tragic events in Crans-Montana have led to many inquiries to the BFB Fire Prevention Advisory Service. It therefore draws attention to the applicable fire safety regulations.
These regulations apply to escape routes in apartment buildings:
- Building entrances, stairwells, intermediate landings, niches, storage spaces under stairs, corridors and forecourts must be kept clear and safe to use at all times. They may not be used for any other purpose. An apartment may not be extended into the stairwell.
- The passage width must not be restricted and must be at least 1.20 m.
- Building entrance doors must be able to be opened at any time without a key. If they provide access to more than 10 residential units, they must open in the direction of escape.
- Items such as baby carriages, bicycles, furniture and wardrobes do not belong in the stairwell.
- No storage of combustible materials such as waste paper, firewood or gas cylinders.
- Additional fittings, ceiling and wall coverings, decorations, floor coverings, large pictures etc. made of flammable materials are not permitted.
- Do not place any open fires, such as candles.
- Extinguishing equipment must be unobstructed at all times and must be maintained periodically in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Owners and tenants are responsible for ensuring that the regulations are complied with. In the event of irregularities, the BFB recommends that tenants seek a discussion with the building owner or property management; in the case of condominiums, the owners' meeting is responsible. They must ensure that safety in the building is maintained.
is guaranteed at all times.
The BFB provides more safety information and a leaflet «Fire safety in stairwells» at bfb-cipi.ch/staircase.
