Couvre-Feu

See section 2 of AD B for Dwelling Houses and diagram 4 - for an exit route to be accepted into an enclosed courtyard or garden the depth of back garden should exceed the height of the house above ground level or where a rear extension is provided the height of the extensions (whichever is greater). Bear in mind this is only if your access route to the front door is unacceptable - i.e. you have to pass through a risk room in order to exit the property - if you pass through a normal hallway the premises should be fine. Do you mind if I ask why you're raising this as its come up a few times recently?

Emily this is a hazard but one with very little potential for harm; I agree with your risk reduction measures but don't believe you need to supply a CO2 extinguisher. With respect to a door this would normally be expected on a commercial kitchen but what you are describing is a staff tea room.

John Yes it can - maybe somebody needs to explain the issues to the installer and I'm sure they'll agree it can be changed.

Hi Becky the easiest option in my opinion would be to raise the door handles to approximately head height for an adult therefore out of reach of the children. Are you able to modify the building - i.e. the easiest option would be to remove the push bars and replace with a standard door handle at about 1.5 - 1.8 metres.

George, really too many variables in 'commercial premises with accommodation above' to give you any sound advice - it would depend on height, separation, occupancy type, etc. and may need anything from no system to a full BS5839 Part 1 system. To be honest with a risk of this type you should get professional advice.

Rebek - how old are the children here? There are a number of security solutions you can employ such as simply raising the door handle if the children are small to electro-magnetic systems linked to the fire alarm system. It will all depend on the age/dependence of the children and your budget.

Jacques, The only UK regulation is that you must be equipped with appropriate fire fighting equipment and that it is easily accessible, simple to use and indicated by signs - the BS is more detailed but is only guidance. Your own risk assessment should determine whether floor standing in trays is acceptable.

You should look at the LACORS (freely available to download) guidance on housing fire safety for the grade of system you should be using and this will depend on a number of factors such as number of storeys etc. - dependent on that grade the power circuit may be the lighting circuit but you would need to consult BS 5839 Part 6 for guidance on the circuit.

Tom some final exit doors need to be fire resisting where they lead onto or under external escapes with people escaping from above.