When we talk about fire safety in buildings, the focus is often on detection and suppression systems. But how people safely exit the building during an emergency is equally as important. In most workplaces, particularly multi-storey buildings, stairwells become the primary escape route.
This is where stair pressurisation plays a critical role.
What is stair pressurisation?
Stair pressurisation is a system designed to keep stairwells clear of smoke during a fire. When an alarm is triggered, the system activates automatically, using fans to push fresh air into the stairwell and create a higher air pressure than the surrounding areas.
This pressure difference is what makes the system effective. It prevents smoke from entering the stairwell through door gaps, helping to maintain a clear and breathable escape path for occupants.
At the same time, the system is carefully balanced so doors can still be opened easily, allowing people to move through the space without difficulty.
Why it matters in a workplace
In a fire emergency, it’s often not the flames, but the smoke that poses the greatest risk. Smoke can spread quickly through a building, reducing visibility, affecting air quality and making it difficult for people to find their way out.
In a workplace, multiple people need to evacuate at the same time and safe, accessible exit paths are critical. In a multi-storey building, stairwells are the primary escape route, but without protection, they can quickly fill with smoke and become unsafe to use. Stair pressurisation systems are designed to prevent this. By keeping smoke out of the stairwell, they help maintain a clear, breathable path so employees and visitors can exit the building quickly and safely. A properly functioning system supports an orderly evacuation, reduces panic and helps ensure everyone has the best possible chance of getting out.
Supporting safe evacuation and compliance
Stair pressurisation isn’t just best practice, it’s a requirement in many buildings under the Building Code of Australia, particularly where smoke hazard management is a concern.
These systems must also be installed and maintained in line with Australian Standards, including regular testing to ensure they perform as intended. Ongoing maintenance is essential. Like any mechanical system, performance depends on correct air pressure, airflow and system balance. Regular servicing ensures the system will operate effectively in an emergency, when it matters most.
In any workplace, that peace of mind matters. If you’re unsure whether your stair pressurisation system is compliant or performing as it should, Coral Fire can help with testing, maintenance and expert advice to keep your building safe. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today.
