This article discusses NSW apartment security grille fire requirements and explains whether quick-release systems are legally required on bedroom window bars in strata buildings.
Question: I have security grills in place on my bedroom windows that could not be removed during an emergency. Are there fire door regulations to have a quick release system installed to allow for a quick exit if needed?
I am the owner of a NSW ground floor strata apartment which is being rented. There are strata security grills in place on my bedroom windows but they are extremely difficult to remove and certainly cannot be done in case of emergency (fire).
I would like to know if there are legal requirements or fire door regulations to have a quick release system installed to allow for quick exit in the event of an emergency. If there is a legal requirement does the responsibility fall on me, the owner or the strata corporation?
Answer: These Security grills should meet Australian Standard AS5039 of which having keyless emergency egress is highly recommended.
The security grilles have at some point been installed for the security of residents on the ground floor either by the lot owner or the owners corporation. These Security grills should meet Australian Standard AS5039 of which having keyless emergency egress is highly recommended.
Best practice would see these security bars fitted with a quick release system or easily accessible key opening. This is recommended in the Australian Standard but is not a legislative requirement under building codes or fire and emergency planning.
Windows in a bedroom are not considered a path of travel or a required exit under the BCA (Now NCC Sec D1.2) therefore there are no requirements for windows to provide an ease of access in the event of an emergency.
Under Australian Standard 3745-2010 (Planning for Emergencies in Facilities) Owners Corporations, with the exception of townhouses and standalone houses, is to have direct access to an emergency exit or to a passageway leading to at least two different emergency exits.
The building must ensure that all Fire Safety Installations approved at time of construction (and those fitted after) including fire doors are maintained in accordance with Australian Standard 1851.
This post appears in Strata News #443.
Peter Berney
Solutions in Engineering
E: peter@solutionsinengineering.com
P: 1300 136 036
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