Why does NFPA require multi-story buildings to have at least two exit stairwells and self-closing fire doors?

by Nils Deacon, Manager, Inspections and Rating Services

Buildings over four stories in height are required by NFPA (the National Fire Protection Association) to have two exit stairwells and other fire safety features.

A catastrophic fire event in 2022 showed the need for integrated safety features to be present in apartment buildings. According to NFPA, a space heater in a New York City 19-story building caused a fire that killed 17 people. Open fire doors allowed smoke to spread into stairwells and throughout the interior.

The requirement recognizes the importance of providing a secure means of egress in the event of a fire or other emergency. Residents will need to evacuate while the fire department must have space to operate hoses and perform other emergency work including smoke ventilation. A second stairwell free of smoke and fire department activity is vital.

However, other fire protection features are needed to ensure adequate protection for residents to escape in a fire event. The most effective has proven to be a monitored automatic sprinkler system along with a working, integrated fire alarm system.

DISCLAIMER: This information reflects the interpretation of MSO, Inc. with regard to NFPA Standards and Codes and other code sources. It does not represent these code’s official position on the items discussed.

Mixed use multi-story building