Protected Escape Routes: Metalwork Requirements Overview

What makes an escape route protected

A protected escape route keeps people moving safely while fire and smoke are kept out of the path for a set period. In practice this usually means an enclosed stair or corridor separated from the rest of the building by fire-resisting construction, with self-closing doors that open in the direction of escape.

Metalwork is often the element that makes or breaks this protection. Steel stairs, door frames, glazed screens and ventilation grilles all carry fire ratings, and each must be specified as part of a tested assembly rather than chosen on appearance alone.

Fire-rated doors and frames

Doors on escape routes are typically steel or metal-clad assemblies with a rating matched to the wall they sit in. The frame, hinges, seals and closer all contribute to the rating, so swapping one component can invalidate the whole assembly.

• Specify the complete tested assembly, not the leaf alone.
• Include smoke seals and intumescent strips where required.
• Confirm swing direction and panic hardware with the egress plan.

Ask the supplier for documentation linking each door to its certified assembly.

Stairs, landings and handrails

Steel stairs on escape routes must be sized for the expected occupancy and built to carry live loads with margin. Treads should resist slipping, and nosings must be clearly visible.

Handrails should be graspable and continuous where the code requires it, mounted at a height and with a clearance from the wall that allows a secure grip. Israeli railing requirements are set out in standard SI 1142, but exact dimensions should be verified with the engineer for each project.

Guardrails and openings

Guardrails along open edges of stairs and landings need to resist the loads defined by the code and prevent a small object or a child from passing through. Infill patterns, post spacing and anchorage all affect performance.

Glass infill is a popular choice in modern buildings. It should be specified with the correct glass type and fixing system so that it performs under impact and does not become a hazard in a fire.

Coordinating metalwork with the egress plan

Metalwork decisions affect the overall egress strategy, including travel distances, door widths and the number of exits. Early coordination avoids costly redesign later in the project.

• Share door schedules and stair details with the fire consultant early.
• Check that clear widths are maintained after frames, handrails and fixings are added.
• Record every fire-rated component in a single schedule.

Finishes, maintenance and inspection

Corrosion and wear can reduce the performance of steel components over time. Hot-dip galvanizing and powder coating extend service life, particularly in coastal or humid conditions, and make maintenance easier.

Escape routes must stay clear and functional throughout the life of the building. Specify hardware that is durable, easy to inspect, and simple for building management to maintain, and include inspection points in the handover documents.

Frequently asked questions

Do all escape stairs need to be made of steel?

Not necessarily, since the material depends on the fire resistance and structural requirements of the building. Steel is common because it can achieve the required ratings and load capacity. Your fire engineer will confirm the appropriate material for each stair.

Can I change a fire door's hardware after installation?

Changes can affect the tested rating, so any substitution should be checked against the certified assembly. Replacing components with non-approved parts may compromise protection. Always verify with the supplier and fire consultant first.

Where can I find the exact handrail and guardrail dimensions?

Israeli railing requirements are referenced in standard SI 1142, but exact values should be confirmed for your specific project. Your structural or fire engineer can advise on the correct figures. Do not rely on general rules of thumb.

When should metalwork be reviewed in the design process?

Review metalwork during schematic design, when the egress strategy is first set, and again during detailed design. Early input prevents conflicts between door swings, stair widths and fire ratings. Late changes are usually more expensive to resolve.

Common mistakes to avoid

Architects often select metalwork for appearance without checking the tested fire rating of the complete assembly. Overlooking how frames, seals and hardware affect clear width and rating can also cause failed inspections.

Our recommendation

Share your egress plan and door schedule with the metalwork manufacturer early, and request documentation for every fire-rated assembly. Confirm exact dimensions and ratings with your fire engineer before fabrication begins.

Summary

Protected escape route metalwork includes fire-rated doors, stairs, handrails and guardrails that must work together as tested assemblies. Early coordination with the fire engineer and manufacturer keeps designs compliant and avoids costly changes.

Related guides

• Access Control Hardware Compatible with Emergency Egress
• Smoke Control Considerations for Metal Stairwell Enclosures
• Security Gates for Residential Entrances: Design Options
• Fire-Rated Metal Door Frames: Key Design Principles
• Anti-Climb Design for Perimeter Fencing
• Door Closer and Self-Closing Mechanisms for Fire-Rated Doors
• All models in this category