Why Fire Escape Inspections Fail

Why Fire Escape Inspections Fail

Fire escape inspections do not fail because of how a fire escape looks. Surface-level appearance—such as peeling paint or light rust—rarely determines the outcome of an inspection.

Inspections fail because of structural and safety deficiencies that compromise the fire escape’s ability to perform during an emergency.

Common reasons a fire escape inspection fails include:

• Hidden corrosion beneath paint or coatings that weakens steel members

• Thinning steel caused by long-term rust and moisture exposure

• Failing or loose anchors where the fire escape connects to the building

• Improper past repairs, such as welded patches or replaced parts that don’t meet code

• Non-compliant dimensions or safety features, including incorrect stair width, railing height, or landing size

These problems are often not visible from the ground and may remain unnoticed for years without a professional evaluation.

Why These Issues Are So Dangerous

Fire escapes are designed to support multiple occupants at once during a high-stress emergency. When steel has lost thickness, anchors are weakened, or repairs were done incorrectly, the structure may no longer meet required load standards.

This creates serious risks, including:

• Partial or total collapse

• Detachment from the building

• Failure during evacuation when weight loads are highest

Because these failures can happen suddenly, inspectors treat even early signs of deterioration as serious concerns.

Why Routine Inspections Matter

Many fire escape deficiencies develop slowly over time. Moisture intrusion, freeze-thaw cycles, and corrosion don’t cause immediate failure—but they steadily reduce structural strength.

Routine inspections matter because they:

• Identify problems before they become dangerous

• Reduce the cost of repairs by catching issues early

• Ensure ongoing code compliance

• Protect occupants and limit owner liability

Waiting until visible damage appears often means the structure has already suffered significant deterioration.