I wonder can anyone answer a fire safety question in terms of what is lawful or not in terms of RRFSO. The scenario is such: A manufacturing unit has sufficient escape routes throughout the building. Fire marshals are trained throughout all areas. Weekly Audits are up to date and fire precautions taken throughout all areas. Here is the challenge. The offices are based on a higher level with access by a single staircase. There is no other means of access/egress. The risk assessment identifies there is no second escape route nor windows and the only defence if trapped is fire fighting equipment. There is no way adjustments can be made to provide a second fire escape, space restrictions means the offices can not be relocated. Is this a breach of the law and do the company absolutley have to provide a second exit?

if my understanding is correct, should a fire situation result or have potential to cause people harm, the enforcing authority may hold accountable the responsible person because of the quality of the risk controls. Based on this circumstance where there is an entrapment hazard, what measures can the dutyholder take to satisfy RRFSO but more so, ensure human safety first and foremost? i do not know the building layout here so cannot say if the stairwell has a direct escape but i do know the factory below carries out controlled laser cutting and hot works.

As has already been said much depends on the activities, numbers of people involved, layout and travel distances etc. Can I suggest you have a look at the link below and look at the various senarios for two storey buildings/factories. This may help clarify things for you. http://www.communities.g...ents/fire/pdf/150952.pdf