Part D1 Provision for escape

Where a solution is proposed to comply with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions, D1 clarifies that for most buildings compliance with Parts D1, D2 and D3 will achieve compliance with DP1 to DP6, DP8 and DP9. The exceptions to this general rule are set out below.

If the building contains an atrium, it must comply with Part G3 in addition to Parts Parts D1, D2 and D3.

If the building contains an occupiable outdoor area, it must comply with Part G6 in addition to Parts D1, D2 and D3.

A building which comprises a theatre, stage or public hall must comply with Part H1 in addition to Parts D1, D2 and D3.

If the building contains an atrium and one or more of a theatre, stage or public hall, it must comply with Parts D1, D2, D3, G3 and H1.

A building located in an Alpine Area must comply with Part G4 in addition to Parts D1, D2 and D3.

A building associated with public transport services, such as railway stations, bus interchanges, airports and ferry terminals must comply with Part H2 in addition to Parts D1, D2 and D3.

Where a Performance Solution is proposed, the relevant Performance Requirements must be determined in accordance with A2.2(3) and A2.4(3) as applicable. (See commentary on Part A2).

The Part D1 Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions do not apply within a sole-occupancy unit of a Class 2 or Class 3 building and Class 4 parts.

This is because most occupants are familiar with the layout of their unit. The units are small in area compared to sole-occupancy units in other classes of building. They will also have a low level of occupancy and a lower fire load than most commercial and industrial buildings.

Additionally, such units will be separated from the rest of the building by fire-rated construction, or sprinklers will be installed. Except when considering smoke-hazard management matters, the path to the door leading out of sole-occupancy units is not regarded as part of the path of travel to an exit. See Part E2.

Under D1.2(a), all buildings must have at least one exit from each storey. The remainder of D1.2 sets out the circumstances in which more than one exit may be required.

The purpose of regulatory control over the number of exits in a building is to maximise the opportunities for people to have egress from the building in an emergency.

Egress from some buildings can be very difficult (for example, particularly tall or large buildings, or even small buildings which have a complex passageway design). It may be necessary to provide several alternative exits.

While a number of the D1.2 provisions refer to “horizontal exit”, they do not require the installation of a horizontal exit. Rather, where a horizontal exit exists or is proposed, at least two additional exits must be provided. Where there is no horizontal exit, there must still be at least two exits.

The D1.2(b)(i) provision regarding an effective height of 25 metres recognises the effective operating height for fire brigade ladders and other fire-fighting and rescue equipment. Above this height, fire-fighting, rescue and egress problems increase considerably.

C1.5 provides a concession for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings (having a rise in storeys of two), in that if they comply with certain conditions they may be of Type C construction. In order to qualify for that concession such buildings must have at least 2 exits.

This provision recognises that Class 2 and Class 3 buildings constructed in accordance with C1.5 include additional evacuation provisions.

“Basement” is not defined in the BCA. A basement is regarded as a below-ground-level storey not counted in the rise in storeys.

Any basement in excess of the minimum floor area specified in D1.2(c)(i) which has a travel distance to an exit in excess of that specified in D1.2(c)(ii), must have at least two exits. The reason for this is that basements present difficulties in terms of egress and fire-fighting. These include:

• the difficulty in naturally venting smoke from a fire because of the lack of windows; and
• the need for occupants to evacuate in the direction of smoke travel. This is the opposite to upper storeys, where people would be evacuating downwards and the smoke travelling upwards.

D1.2(d)(i) covers Class 9 buildings with a rise in storeys of more than six (additional to the provisions which apply to Class 2 to Class 8 buildings) and Class 9 buildings with an effective height of more than 25 metres (which is the same as for Class 2 to Class 8 buildings, and recognises the effective operating height for fire brigade ladders and other fire-fighting and rescue equipment).

D1.2(d)(i) recognises the emergency egress requirements for Class 9 buildings. Such buildings could contain large numbers of people who may be unfamiliar with the building’s egress provisions. They might also be confused and in various stages of immobility.

D1.2(d)(i) does not refer to “whichever is the lesser”, nor, for that matter, “whichever is the greater”—meaning that both are applicable.

In D1.2(d)(ii)–(vi), and D1.2(e) and (f), the BCA recognises that some Class 9 buildings (patient care areas, aged care buildings, early childhood centres, schools, spectator stands, storeys or mezzanines containing more than 50 people as calculated under D1.13) present difficult evacuation conditions (requiring two exits additional to any horizontal exits) because of such factors as:

• the age and nature of the occupants;
• the density of occupation (for example, occupants per m²); and
• the unfamiliarity of occupants with the emergency evacuation requirements.

There is little point requiring exits if they are not accessible at all times. D1.2(g) requires that occupants must be able to access an exit. Where two or more exits are required, at least two exits (allowing for the fact that one of the exits may be made inaccessible by an emergency, such as a fire) should be accessible.

Such access must not be through another sole-occupancy unit because access to the unit may be locked or barred.

D1.3 and DP5

D1.3 comprises the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for DP5.

Fire-isolated exits are required in multi-storey buildings to enable people to evacuate past a storey on fire. They also help the fire brigade carry out search and rescue and fire-fighting.

Such exits minimise the distance people need to travel in a fire-affected area before accessing a “safe place”, such as a fire-isolated stairway.

Fire-isolated exits may be:

• fire-isolated stairways;
• fire-isolated ramps; and
• fire-isolated passageways connected to fire-isolated stairways or ramps.

D1.3 sets out when stairways and ramps connecting storeys in a building are required to be fire-isolated. This only applies to a stairway or ramp serving as a required exit. Therefore, from the definition of "exit", D1.3 only applies to those providing egress to a road or open space. Combined with the provisions of D1.2 that exits are required from every storey, a stairway or ramp serving as an exit will generally be connecting storeys. However, the term "exit" could also apply to a stairway or ramp from a basement that exits vertically, directly to a road or open space and thus, does not technically connect storeys.

D1.3 only applies to stairways that are required exits and therefore does not apply to stairways between split levels of a single storey of a building or those leading from the front door of a building.

Under certain specified conditions, D1.8 permits the use of external stairways in place of fire-isolated stairways.

D1.3(a)(i) permits Class 2 buildings to have non-fire-isolated exits provided they do not connect, pass through or pass by more than three consecutive storeys, plus an extra storey of any classification under specified conditions. The terms “connect”, “pass through” and “pass by” include the following situations:

• Where the exit provides access to the storey.
• Where the exit passes through the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.
• Where the exit is external to the building, i.e. passes by the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.

With regard to the allowance for 3 storeys, the BCA assumes that residents of Class 2 buildings tend to be long-term occupants, and aware of their surroundings. This makes them likely to be able to exit quickly without the need for fire-isolated exits.

An extra storey of any classification may be included under certain circumstances where the fire risk associated with the extra storey is low. The circumstances are:

• where the extra storey is used for a carpark or other ancillary purposes. In Class 2 buildings a carpark usually represents a low fire risk, and is unlikely to have many occupants for any length of time. The inclusion of the extra storey applies when the building only consists of a Class 2 building and a carpark. The building may also include a Class 3 part, however in such a case, the Class 3 portion of the building would control the number of storeys connected by a non-fire-isolated exit (see comments on D1.3(a)(ii)); and
• where the building contains a sprinkler system. This concession recognises the ability of sprinkler systems to extinguish or contain a fire thereby allowing additional time for occupants to escape; and
• where the exit is separated from the extra storey by walls having an FRL consistent with those required for a public corridor in a Class 2 or 3 building. By having separating walls with an FRL and by preventing any connection to the extra storey for the purpose of providing access to or egress for that storey, the non-fire-isolated exit is protected from the fire risk associated with the extra storey.

D1.3(a)(ii) permits Class 3 buildings to have non-fire-isolated exits provided they do not connect, pass through or pass by more than two consecutive storeys, plus an extra storey of any classification under specified conditions. The terms “connect”, “pass through” and “pass by” include the following situations:

• Where the exit provides access to the storey.
• Where the exit passes through the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.
• Where the exit is external to the building, i.e. passes by the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.

The allowance for two storeys is based on residents of a number of Class 3 buildings being less familiar with the building layout and paths of travel to an exit than residents of a Class 2 building. The differential between Class 2 and Class 3 buildings recognises a higher potential level of risk in Class 3 buildings.

An extra storey of any classification may be included under certain circumstances where the fire risk associated with the extra storey is low. The circumstances are:

• where the extra storey is used for a carpark or other ancillary purposes. In Class 3 buildings a carpark usually represents a low fire risk, and is unlikely to have many occupants for any length of time. The inclusion of the extra storey applies when the building only consists of a Class 3 building and a carpark. The building may also include a Class 2 part, however in such a case, the Class 3 portion of the building would control the number of storeys connected by a non-fire-isolated exit; and
• where the building contains a sprinkler system. This concession recognises the ability of sprinkler systems to extinguish or contain a fire; and
• where the exit is separated from the extra storey by walls having an FRL consistent with those required for a public corridor in a Class 2 or 3 building. By having separating walls with an FRL and by preventing any connection to the extra storey for the purpose of providing access to or egress for that storey, the non-fire-isolated exit is protected from the fire risk associated with the extra storey.

Under D1.3(b)(i), required exits in Class 9a health-care buildings need to be fire-isolated if they connect, pass through or pass by more than two consecutive storeys, or the areas they connect, pass through or pass by include one or more patient care areas. The terms “connect”, “pass through” and “pass by” include the following situations:

• Where the exit provides access to the storey
• Where the exit passes through the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey
• Where the exit is external to the building, i.e. passes by the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.

D1.3(b)(ii) allows an exemption for open spectator stands because of their open nature, which means that the build up of smoke is unlikely.

D1.3(b)(iii) does not apply to:

• a Class 9a building;
• a Class 9c building; or
• an open spectator stand.

D1.3(b)(iii) permits other Class 5–9 buildings to have non-fire-isolated exits provided they do not connect, pass through or pass by more than two consecutive storeys, plus an extra storey of any classification under specified conditions. The terms “connect”, “pass through” and “pass by” include the following situations:

• Where the exit provides access to the storey.
• Where the exit passes through the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.
• Where the exit is external to the building, i.e. passes by the storey but does not necessarily provide access to or egress for the storey.

An extra storey of any classification may be included under certain circumstances where the fire risk associated with the extra storey is low. The circumstances are:

• where the building contains a sprinkler system. This concession recognises the ability of sprinkler systems to extinguish or contain a fire; and
• where the exit is separated from the extra storey by walls having an FRL consistent with those required for a public corridor in a Class 2 or 3 building. By having separating walls with an FRL and by preventing any connection to the extra storey for the purpose of providing access to or egress for that storey, the non-fire-isolated exit is protected from the fire risk associated with the extra storey.

The D1.4 travel distances are based on an assumption of what is considered “reasonable” distances to be travelled by occupants in reaching an exit.

The travel distances specified in D1.4 are measured in accordance with D1.15.

D1.4(a)(i)(A) and (B) require a shorter travel distance, to a single exit, for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings and Class 4 parts than is required for Class 5 to Class 9 buildings.

The distance occupants of sole-occupancy units in Class 2 and Class 3 buildings and Class 4 parts must travel to leave their unit is not part of the distance specified in D1.4. Accordingly, the permitted distance of travel from the point at which the occupant leaves the unit must take account of the time needed for the occupant to reach that point from within the unit.

Distance of travel must factor in the time occupants need to wake up, become alert to their predicament, and exit in a state of confusion.

This process of becoming alert will inevitably require more time to exit. Therefore the distance of travel to an exit should be shorter.

Figure D1.4(1) illustrates various methods of complying with D1.4 for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings.

D1.4(c)(i) sets out the maximum travel distance in Class 5–9 buildings. This includes Class 9c buildings, but excludes Class 9a buildings, which must comply with D1.4(d). (See comments on D1.4(d) for the reason Class 9a buildings are treated differently). The additional travel distance allowed in Class 9c buildings recognises the effectiveness of sprinkler systems that must be installed in these buildings.

The distances specified allow people to evacuate in a reasonable time, assuming that they are not asleep.

In case a fire blocks a path of travel, D1.4(c)(i) requires that alternative routes must be available within 20 metres of the starting point, unless it is possible to reach a single exit within 20 m.

The conditional reference in D1.4(c) to sub-clauses (d), (e) and (f) refers to special provisions for particular types of building.

Figure D1.4(2) illustrates various methods of complying with D1.4 for Class 5 and Class 6 buildings.

D1.4(c)(ii) provides a concession for Class 5 and Class 6 buildings served by a single exit opening onto a road or open space. The concession only applies to the storey at the level of access to a road or open space.

D1.4(c)(ii) uses the phrase "at the level of access to a road or open space". The term "level" does not require the storey to be physically level or flush with the road or open space to obtain the concession, but simply requires that the storey is at a level from which occupants finally leave the building to reach a road or open space. The concession allows a greater travel distance of 30 m in lieu of 20 m to a single exit on the basis that occupants, including customers of a shop, are:

• generally aware of their surroundings in these types of buildings which are typically small shops or offices located at or near ground level;
• familiar with the location of the exit which is typically the main entrance to the shop or office; and
• familiar with the path of travel to reach the exit thereby allowing a prompt and direct egress from the space.

Small shops and offices at or near ground level also tend to have an open plan layout thereby allowing the exit to be easily sighted to permit safe and speedy egress where the space is located in close proximity to the external ground surface such as a road or open space.

The concession is applicable to a number of cases such as to any Class 5 and 6 parts of a building located in a storey at the level of access to a road or open space even though the storey may be served by more than one exit, subject to that part otherwise complying with D1.4(c)(ii).

The concession is also available for Class 5 or 6 parts of a building containing other classifications (refer to A1.0(3)(a)).

The conditional reference in D1.4(c) to sub-clauses (d), (e) and (f) refers to special provisions for particular types of building.

Patient care areas in Class 9a buildings can present particular problems in case of emergency egress. Such areas are likely to be occupied by people who are either fully or partly non-ambulatory, and in many cases confused or incapacitated by drugs and medical and post-operative conditions.

Accordingly, the allowable distance of travel to an exit in the patient care areas of a Class 9a building is less than for Class 5–8 buildings, non-patient care areas of Class 9a buildings, and Class 9b buildings.

D1.4(d) should be read in conjunction with C2.5.

Figure D1.4(1) Distances to exits in Class 2 and Class 3 buildings

Figure D1.4(2) Distance to exits in Class 5 to Class 9 buildings

The construction of an open spectator stand is such that the build up of smoke is unlikely. Greater distances of travel to an exit are therefore permitted.

The concession available for assembly buildings is based on a specific level of fire and smoke separation being provided between the area being evacuated and the circulation space passed through to reach an exit.

To obtain the concession, D1.4(f)(iii) limits the distance of travel through the room being evacuated and across the circulation space outside that room to the exit.

Where a building requires multiple exits, the exits maximise the choices of a person evacuating, in case one exit becomes blocked.

D1.5(a) requires that where multiple exits exist, they must be distributed as uniformly as practicable to improve the level of safety when evacuating.

D1.5 specifies the minimum and maximum permitted distances between alternative exits (for example, two exits may be located next to one another, so long as they are not each other’s alternative in an emergency). Where scissor stairs are used, the shafts will be adjacent and separated by fire-resisting construction. However, the access doors to the alternative scissor stairs must comply with the minimum separation distance.

The minimum distance minimises the risk of fire spreading to block the alternative exit.

The maximum distance between alternative exits minimises the need to travel too far to reach an exit.

If alternative paths of travel converge too closely, both paths can be blocked by the same fire. The minimum distance between the paths of travel aims to negate this.

The minimum convergence distance only comes into operation when the paths of travel have already diverged to that distance. The paths can commence more closely together than the distance specified.

The travel distances specified in D1.5 are measured in accordance with D1.15.

Figure D1.5(1) illustrates the method of measuring the maximum and minimum distances between exits.

Figure D1.5(1) Plan showing method of measuring between exits

Figure D1.5(2) illustrates the convergence prohibition on alternative paths of travel.

Figure D1.5(2) Plan showing converging paths of travel

The D1.6(a) requirement for a minimum unobstructed height of two metres is considered to be a reasonable minimum for most people to safely walk through to gain egress.

D1.6(a) relates to the unobstructed height between a floor and:

• a ceiling; or
• a projection from a ceiling, such as a bulkhead, beam, cable tray, light fitting, pipe, sprinkler head or the like.

It should be noted that in addition to complying with D1.6, exits and paths of travel to exits must comply with the minimum ceiling heights in F3.1.

The reduction to a minimum of 1980 mm for doorways is to allow for a standard door frame.

The required exit and path of travel widths have been determined on the basis of an estimate of the width required to allow the safe exit of a given number of people expected in particular buildings.

D1.6(b) clarifies that the unobstructed width of any exit or path of travel to an exit is to not be less than the dimensions prescribed. These may then be added to achieve the aggregate width that is required.

D1.6(b)(iii) applies to Class 9c buildings. The additional width at doorways is to allow for greater manoeuvrability of beds, mobile baths, wheelchairs, walking frames and other equipment throughout the resident use areas.

Figure D1.6(1) illustrates two examples of how compliance with the corridor width provisions in a Class 9c building may be achieved.

Figure D1.6(1) Method of measuring corridor width in a Class 9c building

Buildings, other than ward and treatment areas of a Class 9a building, accommodating up to 200 people (see D1.6(b) and (c)) require minimum widths of:

• 1 metre for 0 to 100 people;
• 1.25 metres for 101 to 125 people;
• 1.5 metres for 126 to 150 people;
• 1.75 metres for 151 to 175 people; and
• 2 metres for 176 to 200 people.

See Figure D1.6(2).

Above 200 people (see D1.6(d)), there is a division between those buildings which have a change of floor level by way of stairways or ramps with a gradient greater than 1 in 12, and those which do not have such a change in floor level. The reason for this differentiation is that the change in floor level has the potential to create problems at exits, which could cause injuries and delays. The difference can be outlined as follows, and is illustrated in Figure D1.6(2):

• Change in floor level by stairway or ramp greater than 1:12—D1.6(d)(i)
  • 2.5 metres for 201 to 260 people;
  • 3 metres for 261 to 320 people;
  • 3.5 metres for 321 to 380 people;
  • and so on.
• Every other case—D1.6(d)(ii)
  • 2.5 metres for 201 to 275 people;
  • 3 metres for 276 to 350 people;
  • 3.5 metres for 351 to 425 people;
  • and so on.

D1.6(c), (d) and (e) refer to the required width of an exit or path of travel to an exit in terms of an “aggregate unobstructed width”. The exit or path may be less than the total required width (although each must achieve the minimum required width), but when the width of each exit or path is added together, the specified aggregate unobstructed width must be achieved.

Figure D1.6(2) Graph showing required exit widths

The width of a doorway must be clear of all obstructions. This includes door handles or other attachments or any part of the door leaf and any part of the door frame, including the door stop.

D1.6(f)(i) and (ii) provide additional width for doorways in patient care areas to allow for the turning circle of beds, and other egress difficulties, such as those experienced by patients who require ambulatory assistance.

The width of a doorway comprising part of the exit or path of travel is permitted to be 250 mm less than the width of each exit. This allows for the installation of a standard door frame.

In the case of an exit comprising multiple doorways, this concession may be applied to each individual doorway.

Figure D1.6(3) shows alternative examples of the exit door width for a building requiring a total exit width of three metres.

D1.6(f)(iv) applies to Class 9c buildings. The additional width of doorways is to allow for greater manoeuvrability of beds, mobile baths, wheelchairs, walking frames and other equipment throughout resident use areas.

No doorway should be less than 750 mm in width, except doorways which open into toilets and bathrooms. However, minimum width requirements do apply to doorways which provide access to facilities required for people with disabilities (see D3.2 and F2.4).

D1.6(b)(ii) and (c)(ii) specify additional width requirements for the exit and path of travel to allow for the turning circle of beds.

D1.6(e) provides an exception for large open spectator stands to the exit and path of travel width required for other buildings.

Figure D1.6(3) Plan showing examples of exit widths for a building requiring an exit width of 3 m

Under D1.6(g), the required unobstructed width of exit or path of travel must not be reduced in the direction of egress. This provision aims to avoid congestion in an exit or a path of travel to an exit.

Under D1.6(h)(i), the required stairway width must be measured clear of obstructions, including handrails and projecting barriers.

Under D1.6(h)(ii), the required width of a stairway must continue to a height of 2 metres above the stair. This measurement is consistent with other similar BCA requirements.

Figure D1.6(4) illustrates compliance with D1.6(h).

Figure D1.6(4) Method of measuring height and width of a stairway

D1.7(a) requires that a doorway must not open into a fire-isolated exit unless it opens from a public area, a sole-occupancy unit which occupies a whole floor, or a toilet. This is to limit the number of entry points into a fire-isolated exit to retain its fire-resisting performance.

Note that D1.7(a)(i) refers to a “public corridor, public lobby, or the like”. A smoke lobby which serves at least two sole-occupancy units is a “public lobby”, and can open directly into a fire-isolated exit. Figure D1.7(1) illustrates permitted and prohibited entry into a fire-isolated passageway from sole-occupancy units in a shopping centre.

D1.7(b)(i) requires fire-isolated exits to discharge to roads or open spaces. However, there are some exemptions:

• D1.7(b)(ii) sets out the requirements for a fire-isolated exit to discharge into an area within a building (including the requirement that it be open for at least two thirds of its perimeter, to aid smoke ventilation); and
• D1.7(b)(iii) sets out the requirements for a fire-isolated exit to discharge into a covered area outside the building (including the requirement that it be open for at least one third of its perimeter, to aid smoke ventilation).

Figure D1.7(1) Plans showing entry into a fire-isolated passageway in a shopping centre

Figures D1.7(2) and (3) illustrate some of the options available by the use of D1.7.

Figure D1.7(2) Example of discharge of fire-isolated stair complying with D1.7(b)(ii)

Figure D1.7(3) Example of discharge of fire-isolated stair complying with D1.7(b)(iii)

D1.7(c) sets out the FRL and opening protection requirements where the path of travel from the point of discharge of a fire-isolated exit to a road or open space necessitates passes within six metres of any part of the external wall of the building being evacuated. The provision only applies at the level of discharge. So if the exit discharges at ground level, any first storey wall or window would not need protection. The reason is that a fire on the first floor is unlikely to affect people exiting one storey below.

Figure D1.7(4) illustrates when walls and window openings require protection in accordance with D1.7(c).

Figure D1.7(4) Plan showing when walls and windows require protection in accordance with D1.7(c)

D1.7(d) requires the use of a smoke lobby or a pressurisation system to stop the entry of smoke into the fire-isolated exit, if more than two access doorways described in D1.7(a)(i) or (ii) are provided in the same storey. This provision must be read in conjunction with D1.7(a), it does not over-ride it. See Figure D1.7(1).

D1.7(e) requires a ramp where there is any change in level in a fire-isolated passageway in a Class 9 building and that change is less than 600 mm.

Compliance with D1.8 for external stairway or ramp is only required where the external stairway or ramp is proposed as an alternative to a required fire-isolated stairway or ramp. In other words, if a fire-isolated stairway or ramp is not required by the BCA, compliance is not required with D1.8.

The use of an external stairway or ramp is permitted instead of a fire-isolated stairway or ramp up to a height of 25 metres. The reason external stairways or ramps are not permitted above this height is because of:

• the risk that people would suffer vertigo above this level;
• the risk that weather conditions, particularly wind, may become more severe above this height; and
• the need to enable any person who gets into difficulties on the stairway to be rescued by way of fire brigade ladders or other rescue equipment, which generally do not reach above this height.

Fire protection from the external wall of the building near the external exit and any openings in that wall, is required under D1.8(a ) and (b) to ensure that an average person using the exit is afforded adequate protection from flames and radiant heat from a fire within the building.

D1.8(c) provides two separate methods of protecting the external exit from a fire from within the building:

• protect the external wall of the building and any openings in the wall, within the prescribed distances to the exit (see Figure D1.8(1)); or
• protect the exit by shielding construction where the exit is within the prescribed distances to the building (see Figure D1.8(2)).

Figure D1.8(1) Protection of the external exit using the external wall of the building in accordance with D1.8(c)(i)

D1.8(d) provides requirements for the shielding construction and protection of any openings in that construction.

Figure D1.8(2) Protection of the external exit using shielding construction in accordance with D1.8(c)(ii)

D1.9(a) requires that occupants in a required non-fire-isolated stairway or ramp are able to continue all the way down to the level from which egress to a road or open space is available.

D1.9(a) refers to a continuous means of travel comprising flights of stairs and landings. It would generally not be acceptable for an entire or substantial proportion of a storey to be called a “landing”.

The first diagram in Figure D1.9(1) illustrates non-compliance with D1.9(a) because the stair does not provide a continuous path of travel to the level providing egress to a road or open space. The second diagram in Figure D1.9(1) illustrates a method of compliance with D1.9(a).

The distances specified in D1.9 apply only to a required non-fire-isolated stairway or ramp.

Figure D1.9(2) illustrates the method of measuring a travel distance down a stairway.

D1.9(b) and (c) provide requirements for the overall travel distances permitted on non-fire-isolated stairways. Figure D1.9(3) illustrates compliance with D1.9(b) and (c).

D1.9(d) and (e) provide requirements for the travel distance permitted from the base of the non-fire-isolated stairway to the discharge point (note that this distance is part of the distances required under D1.9(b) and (c)). Figure D1.9(4) illustrates compliance with D1.9(d) and (e).

D1.9(f) provides the additional requirements for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings which are required to have 2 or more exits.

Figure D1.9(5) illustrates one method of an exit system in a Class 5–9 building complying with Section D.

Figure D1.9(1) Section showing compliance with D1.9(a)

Figure D1.9(2) Method of measuring travel distance down a stairway

Figure D1.9(3) Method of measuring overall distance of travel via non-fire-isolated stairways

Figure D1.9(4) Plans showing compliance with D1.9(d) and (e) for the discharge of non-fire-isolated stairways

Figure D1.9(5) One method of compliance with Section D

D1.10(a) requires that an exit must not be blocked at the point of discharge.

Barriers (such as bollards) must be installed, if they are necessary to prevent vehicles blocking access to, or discharge from, an exit.

If an exit discharges to an open space, D1.10(b) and (c) require that a safe means of travel be provided from the open space to a road. This means that the following criteria must be satisfied:

• D1.10(b)—to maximise the safety of people moving towards a road during an evacuation, the width of the path of travel from the open space to the road must be at least that required for the exit (and in no case less than one metre).
• D1.10(c)—to minimise the risk from falling or tripping, any stairways or ramps must comply with the rest of the BCA (eg construction of treads, landings etc). This may include the provision of ramps suitable for people with disabilities.

The link between the road and open space must be open to the sky for its length.

D1.10(d) requires that the discharge points of alternative exits be as far apart as possible, so that if the discharge from one of them is blocked, the other will still operate satisfactorily.

D1.10(e) requires that exits from an open spectator stand not discharge to the ground in front of the stand. There may be a large number of people viewing the event from the front of the stand, and they may obstruct the path of those evacuating.

There is also a risk that the front of the stand could be subject to severe heat radiation. Also the only egress to the road from the ground in front of the stand may be through the stand.

Under D1.10(f), only two thirds of the required width of exits from an auditorium, such as a theatre or hall, are to discharge into an entrance foyer where the auditorium can accommodate more than 500 people. This restriction applies because there may be a large number of people in the foyer, possibly waiting for the next show, or to gain access to another auditorium. These people would obstruct the path of the people evacuating.

Originally, provision was made for horizontal exits between fire compartments because some occupants can have difficulty evacuating, particularly those confined to bed or that have a disability.

Subsequently, it was accepted that horizontal exits would be of value in other buildings, where they could overcome problems associated with large fire compartments, eg excessive distances to travel to exits.

The use of horizontal exits can overcome some of the difficulties outlined above, although they need to be used in conjunction with some other form of exit.

In an emergency, the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions require that occupants travel for limited distances before they reach a place of safety. A “place of safety”, in the case of horizontal exits, means the connecting fire compartment to which people will flee.

For a horizontal exit to comply with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of Section D, it must meet the following criteria:

• The distance of travel to the exit must not exceed that specified elsewhere in the BCA.
• The protection for a place of safety from its adjoining fire compartment is provided by a fire wall. The fire wall has a fire rating to match the classification of the fire compartments it divides and is expected to withstand a burnout of the respective areas. This provides an appropriate level of safety to people using the horizontal exit as they may have to remain in the place of safety for an extended period before evacuating via other exits.
• There must be another exit (other than a horizontal exit) from each place of safety entered by way of a horizontal exit. After escaping to the place of safety it should not be necessary to return to the area being evacuated to continue to evacuate from the building. D1.11(c) specifies a limit for the number of horizontal exits in a storey for buildings of other than Class 9a and Class 9c buildings.
• The place of safety must be large enough to temporarily accommodate the people from the area the horizontal exit is being provided for. It is important to note that if there is only one other exit in the fire compartment then the place of safety is to be large enough to accommodate all the occupants of the fire compartment. This is necessary because if the other exit is blocked then all the occupants will be required to exit through the horizontal exit. This is necessary until vertical evacuation is available. Since this accommodation is only for a short period, the areas specified generally only allow for people to stand. However, the larger areas specified for Class 9a health-care buildings and Class 9c buildings allows for patients or residents on beds to be wheeled through the horizontal exit to be accommodated in the place of safety.
• The path to the place of safety is to have dimensions equal to those of the horizontal exit to assist with the smooth evacuation of occupants.
• The swing of the horizontal exit door must be the same as other exit doors. This means that if the area is more than 200 m² (as specified in D2.20(b)), the door is to swing in the direction of egress. If the FRL of the fire wall is three or four hours, two fire doors may be provided to achieve this FRL. In such cases, for both doors to swing in the one direction, a vestibule must be formed, as shown in Figure D1.11.
• To make sure that evacuation is always possible, it is not permitted to have a horizontal exit to a separate sole-occupancy unit. This is because the owner or occupier of the other unit may lock the door for security reasons, barring entry (or exit) in an emergency.
• Where egress is required in either direction, two doors swinging in opposite directions or a 180° swinging door (complying with all BCA requirements including fire and smoke sealing capacities) may be used.

Horizontal exits may be useful as a means of evacuation from many health-care buildings. They can also be an advantage in large floor area buildings which need to be sub-divided by fire walls to reduce the size of the fire compartments. These fire walls can then be penetrated to create horizontal exits.

Figure D1.11 Plan showing doors forming a horizontal exit in a fire wall in accordance with D1.11

D1.12 only applies to:

• escalators;
• moving walkways and travelators;
• non-required non-fire-isolated stairways; and
• non-required non-fire-isolated ramps.

Builders etc may choose to interconnect two or three storeys of a building with a non-required stairway, ramp or the like in accordance with D1.12.

D1.12(a) prohibits the use of a non-required non-fire-isolated stairway or ramp in a patient care area of a Class 9a building and a resident use area of a Class 9c building. The prohibition is because of the difficulties in evacuating bed-ridden, or otherwise mobility-impaired occupants. This prohibition applies to D1.12(d), despite that provision’s general reference to Class 9 buildings.

D1.12(b) allows any number of storeys to be connected in certain buildings as follows:

• The open nature of the construction of an open spectator stand, sports stadium, carpark, atrium, and a stairway or ramp located outside a building is such that the build-up of smoke is unlikely. D1.12(b)(i), (ii) and (iii) permit any number of interconnected floors in such cases.
• In a Class 5 or Class 6 building containing a sprinkler system, D1.12(b)(iv) allows connection of any number of storeys if the interconnecting stairway, ramp, or escalator and the like complies with Specification D1.12.

• While D1.12(b)(ii) refers to atriums, there are additional requirements for atriums in Part G3.

D1.12 restricts the number of storeys which can be interconnected by a non-required non-fire-isolated stairway, ramp or the like. This recognises that an unprotected opening for a stairway, ramp, escalator or the like can lead to the spread of fire or smoke from one floor to another.

The restriction applies if:

• D1.12(c)(i)—a Class 2–9b building (excluding Class 9a) contains a sprinkler system, no more than three consecutive storeys can be linked, one of which storeys must directly egress to a road or open space. This recognises the effectiveness of a sprinkler system in controlling the spread of fire;
• D1.12(c)(ii)—the building is an unsprinklered Class 2 or Class 3 building, two consecutive storeys can be linked, one of which must directly egress to a road or open space. Part D1 does not generally apply to sole-occupancy units in Class 2 or Class 3 buildings, or Class 4 parts, and there is no restriction on an internal non-required non-fire-isolated stairway, ramp or the like linking two storeys in, for example, a two storey penthouse suite; or
• D1.12(d)—in a Class 5 or Class 6 building which does not qualify under D1.12(b)(iv), and in Class 7–9b buildings (excluding a patient care area in a Class 9a, see D1.12(a)), two consecutive storeys can be linked.

Neither storey is required to provide direct egress to a road or open space and there is no requirement for a sprinkler system as part of this provision. As the stairway or ramp is not required by the BCA for emergency evacuation purposes, this provision is in accord with the remainder of the BCA.

D1.13 and Table D1.13 are used to calculate the anticipated number of people in particular types of building.

From these calculations, a number of BCA requirements can be determined within Sections D, E, F and J. The likely number of persons accommodated can affect determinations in relation to a number of matters in the BCA including; exit requirements, hearing augmentation, limitation of the use of stairway platform lifts, sanitary facilities, ceiling heights and the energy efficiency of mechanical ventilation systems.

D1.13 and Table D1.13 are only intended for the purposes of determining BCA requirements which depend on the number of occupants likely to occupy a building or storey. D1.13 and Table D1.13 are not intended to restrict the number of occupants using a building, or to enforce any building use or licensing requirements.

If more accurate information is available on the expected population of a building, it should be used in preference to Table D1.13. This information may include:

• D1.13(b)—if the building is an assembly building or room, its seating capacity can be used; or
• D1.13(c)—where there is limited public access, a statement from the building owner as to the number of occupants who will use the building; or
• D1.13(c)—a study of the number of people using similar buildings. Such a study must include the number of people at various times. As an example, if the building is to be used as a shop, the figures must include the maximum numbers of people expected at peak times (such as before Christmas).

The area per person contained in Table D1.13 for computer rooms applies to rooms housing computer infrastructure such as computer servers and where low occupant numbers occur. These circumstances are similar to those found in switch or transformer rooms. For computer training rooms and office areas containing computers, the area per person for an office or school classroom, as appropriate, should be used.

D1.14 describes the point at which an exit has commenced with respect to both fire-isolated and non-fire-isolated exits.

Figures D1.15(1) and D1.15(2) illustrate methods of measuring the distance of travel specified in the BCA.

The distance of travel to an exit is measured by determining the path a person would walk from the most remote area of the building to the nearest exit.

The maximum distance of travel between required alternative exits is measured by determining the path a person would travel along in a case where a fire blocks the path of travel to the nearest exit. The path of travel to the alternative exit includes passing through the point at which travel in different directions to those exits is available.

Figure D1.15(1) Plan showing measurement of maximum distance of travel between required alternative exits

It is necessary to measure around any walls, or other built obstructions (including a wall, a demountable wall, and permanent fixed seating). See D1.15(f) and (g).

Generally, furniture, cars in a carpark and some non-built or non-fixed obstructions are not taken into account in the calculation of travel distance. However, there may be occasions when such matters must be taken into account.

Figure D1.15(2) and D1.15(3)

Figure D1.15(2) illustrates, by example, the method of measuring the distance of travel for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings and Class 4 parts.

Figure D1.15(2) Plan showing one method of compliance with Section D for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings and Class 4 parts

Figure D1.15(3) illustrates, by example, the method of measuring the distance of travel for Class 5–9 buildings.

Figure D1.15(3) Plan showing one method of compliance with D1.15 for Class 5–9 buildings

Concessions (such as the use of a ladder in lieu of a stairway) are granted for small plant rooms, lift motor rooms and Class 8 electricity network substations for the following reasons:

• the usual occupants of a small plant room, lift motor room or Class 8 electricity network substation are trained personnel familiar with the room’s hazards and layout and are capable of negotiating the service ladders in a safe manner;
• it is reasonable to assume that if the plant or lift motor room is small, so also will be the number of people who will ever occupy it;
• the small size of the room means that there is not a significant distance to travel to gain egress; and
• in the larger rooms which qualify for this concession, and multiple exits are provided, only one needs to be a stair.

Figure D1.16 illustrates some possible methods of using the concessions contained in D1.16.

Figure D1.16 Plans showing use of D1.16