Appeal 33444

FIR 2.08 - III. H. a-e

FIR 2.08 - FIRE ESCAPES
III. H. Requests for removal of counterbalance stairs

Requests for removal may be granted by the Fire Marshal when the counterbalance stair can be used by unauthorized persons to enter the building.

To approve removal, the Fire Marshal will judge all the following in the affirmative:

a. Is an automatic sprinkler system installed (minimum coverage = exit way plus at least one head in each room)?

b. Are smoke detectors provided throughout all corridors?

c. Is the existing fire escape structurally sound and adequately maintained?

d. Can a 22’ extension ladder be used to access the lowest fire escape platform?

e. Are all previous appeals and agreements between the city and the building being maintained (Chapter 13, FM 68, FM 41)? f. Is the central stair tower enclosed?

Request to remove the counterbalance stairs on the two Montgomery Residence Hall fire escapes due to repeated incidents of unauthorized access, vandalism, and destruction.

a. Sprinkler system is installed on each floor. There are sprinkler heads in each of the units and throughout the corridors.

B. Hardwired smoke detectors are equipped in all of the corridors and battery powered smoke detectors are equipped in each of the units.

c. Yes, both fire escapes were tested in 2013. We are preparing to have the units inspected, tested, and recertified within the next month. We would like to include the removal of the counterbalance stairs in the scope of work for the contractor.

d. Yes, a 22’ ladder can reach the lower landing of each fire escape.
Actual Height: northside - 10’ and southside - 5’

e. Previous agreements with COP maintained. Central stair tower enclosed: Main interior exit stair is enclosed, secondary stair is exterior.

Security of the residence halls and protection of university property from vandalism and damage are of the utmost importance. Removal of the counterbalance stairs will reduce the ability of individuals to externally access residential room spaces and the building’s roof via the fire escapes. The building's doors and elevator are all secured by card access or physical key. The counterbalance stairs undermine the security systems currently in place in the building. We are requesting permission to remove the counterbalance stairs to improve safety and security for our residents and the building.