HMO - Stair gates on single means of escape staircase

[Guest PH88]

Hi, recently visited a HMO which had a bolted stair gates at the top and bottom of the stairs. There is only one staircase which acts as the means of escape for the four flats on the first floor. Anyone else come across this before? My view is that they should be removed as they are compromising the means of escape in the event of an emergency. 

Thank you.

[Tom Sutton]

I would find out why there are bolted stair gates at the top and bottom of the stairs as young children shouldn't be allowed by themselves in the common areas, but there may be other reasons.

[Guest Usha Vara]

On 21/02/2020 at 15:30, Guest PH88 said:

Hi, recently visited a HMO which had a bolted stair gates at the top and bottom of the stairs. There is only one staircase which acts as the means of escape for the four flats on the first floor. Anyone else come across this before? My view is that they should be removed as they are compromising the means of escape in the event of an emergency. 

Thank you.

I agree - I have been asked whether the HMO we look after can have stair gates, I dont think they should as its a fire exit in an emergency and its a common area?  Anyone else have any other views?

[Tom Sutton]

I would agree it is an escape route and stair gates would be an obstruction.