1.9 Particular hazards in
corridors and stairways used
as escape routes
Items that are a source of fuel, pose an ignition
risk, or are combustible and likely to increase
the fire loading or spread of fire, should not be
located on any corridor or stairway that will be
used as an escape route. Such items include:
• portable heaters, e.g. bottled gas (LPG)
or electric radiant heaters and electric
convectors or boilers;
• gas cylinders for supplying heaters;
• cooking appliances; and
• unenclosed gas pipes, meters, and other
fittings.
However, depending on the findings of your risk
assessment and where more than one escape
route is available, items such as those below
may be acceptable if the minimum exit widths
are maintained and the item presents a
relatively low fire risk:
• non-combustible lockers;
• vending machines;
• small items of electrical equipment
(e.g. photocopiers); and
• small coat racks and/or small quanities of
upholstered furniture which meets BS 7176
or the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)
50 (Safety) Regulations 1988.