Posted By A Campbell New cabinets have been placed close to a fire evacuation route and would like to ask if anyone would know the minimum width is required for an evacuation route? I have seen 750mm for up to 50 people somewhere but unsure. Many Thanks Tony

Posted By MLong I was always under the impression that an espace route minimum anywhere was 1110mm. You learn something new everyday when you come on here :o)

Posted By MLong Oops! Thanks for pointing that out, the spell check should include 'use of wording' checks!

Posted By Crim 750mm can accommodate 80 in high risk 100 in normal risk 120 in lower risk premises. 1050mm can accommodate 160 in higher risk 200 in normal risk 240 lower risk premises. What are the cabinets used for, there should be no storage on fire exit routes?

Posted By Decimomal Bit long winded..... Para/Section/Part 14 (1)of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 states: Where necessary, in order to safeguard the safety of relevant persons, the responsible person must ensure that routes to emergency exits from premises and the exits themselves are kept clear at all times. 14 (2) goes on to state requirements that must be complied with in respect of premises where necessary (whether due to the features of the premises, the activity carried out there, any hazard present or any other relevant circumstances) in order to safeguard the safety of relevant persons..... One of these conditions is that the number , distribution of emergency routes and exits must be adequate having regard to the use, equipment and dimensions of the premises and the maximum number of persons who may be present there at any one time. The Government guide to fire safety risk assessments for offices and shops offers the following guide to determine the general capacities of escape routes: The minimum width of an escape route should not be less than 750mm unless it is for use by less than five people in part of your premises. Crim has provided the relevant dimensions. Sarah V - the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the relevant 'Regulation' except it is not a Regulation but an Order if that makes sense. (I always try to avoid quoting Regulations etc directly, as this can alienate people - I prefer the softly softly approach where I can). The bottom line is that emergency exit routes should not be obstructed by anything that may impede peoples evacuation. This would include filing cabinets, photocopiers, vending machines, tea and coffee making facilities and Christmas trees!!