Window restrictor on escape window

[Guest Phill]

Hi there

our maintanance man has put a window restricter on the wooden frame of the fire window and on the opening frame for the glass with 20mm screws. How would this affect the fire safety of the window as the screws haven't gone through fully just in to the frame.

Phill

[AnthonyB]

If it's a fire escape window I would remove the restrictor now as otherwise you won't be getting out in a hurry! 

[Tom Sutton]

What do you mean by fire window is it an escape window or fire resistant glazing either way it should not have a restrictor. If it s an escape window AB has answer that, if it is fire resistant glazing then all opening windows should be fixed shut.

[Guest DSwit]

l live in a 11 Storey block of flats and a contractor is going to lock all our windows till the outside work has been done.There is only one way out of my flat through the front door can he make us do this? Bearing in mind they are only on site for 40 hours a week.The job will last several months.

[Tom Sutton]

Escape through windows is not an option for a 11 Storey block of flat except for the ground and first floor however as a last resort, if access through a window is required it will pose no problems with the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS). Most blocks of flats only have a single means of escape in case of fire which is designed at the time of construction.

If you are still concerned contact the local FRS for their advice.  http://www.firesafe.org.uk/uk-fire-rescue-services-details/

[Guest Simon]

Hi does anybody know if putting a single bed in front of a fire exit window is classed as an obstruction as it is not higher than the window sill but prevents clear access to the window itself would have to climb over bed to get to window could somebody please give me information on this

[Tom Sutton]

It is definitely an obstruction but it would depend on if you have any practical options whether or not it is acceptable.