Posted By Fornhelper
Hi all,

Following a review of safety at residential units for young people I was concerned about windows opening fully on the upper floors (2-storey buildings) as there is a history of young persons climbing in / out windows on to ledges etc, having friends climb into rooms undetected by staff etc. The possibility of falls due to boisterous behaviour in rooms or accidentally where the sills are fairly low also concerned me.

I advised that windows were adapted or restricters fitted to allow them to partially open.

On requesting that this was carried out the 'maintenance section' stated that this is not permitted as the kids would not be able to get out in the event of a fire. All our units have alternative fire exits, are fully alarmed and can be exited from upstairs by fire exits linked to external stairways. The young persons and staff are fully aware of the emergency evacuation procedures involved.

On balance between the risk of 'non-escape' in the event of fire and children / young persons being injured due to unauthorised use or accidentally falling from an unrestricted window I believe that restricting the windows from opening is the 'safer' option. (Showing the children how to open in event of an emergency would defeat the purpose !!!)

Would value any opinions or comments

Regards
FH

Posted By Lilian McCartney
If in Scotland the guidance for the new fire Act for this sector is still awaited (I think - cos so much happens when you're not looking!).
Think 'English' guidance is out - possibly still draft.
I noticed the offices draft mentions emergency escape from upper windows for employees only, not visitors. Obviously could be different for residential.
Scottsih Executive website has link to get draft guidance sent ot you by e-mail when out.
Anyway, falling, jumping etc from window has to be considered as well as fire exit. I would have thought children/young people likely to have windows open as far as they can just to frighten the staff if nothing else and then an accident could happen.
I know of a situation where an elderly lady deliberately jumped from her first floor bedroom window. At first the recommendation was that windows shouldn't be openable wide enough to allow this and then was changed to avoid accidently falling out.
Hope this helps

Lilian

Posted By Fornhelper
Thanks folks,

I am based in Scotland and have since spoken with the local community fire safety officer who agrees with our approach. As long as the arrangements for raising the alarm / escape are adequate then they don't have a problem with the restricted opening of windows.

FH