In an emergency, fire escapes can save the lives of your tenants, employees, and customers. Unfortunately, over time, rust and corrosion can weaken your fire escape, making it unsafe to use when you need it most. Below are a few indicators that the fire safety equipment on your property needs to be repaired or replaced.

Signs of an Unsafe Fire Escape

Loose Anchorages

To provide a safe exit, fire escapes should be firmly anchored to the building exterior. Over time, metal shrinks and swells, causing the bolts that secure the stairs to come loose. If the connections are severely corroded, the entire assembly may need to be replaced. However, in some cases, the stairs can be secured by tightening or installing new bolts.

Missing Components

Every piece of the fire escape, from the handrails to the treads, should be tight enough to resist movement and fully connected. Look for corrosion at connection points, and steps that shift underfoot. Missing supports, treads, and other pieces always mean a fire escape needs to be repaired.

Fortunately, an experienced welder can often repair localized damage. Loose or damaged stairs, bent handrails, and broken pieces of metal can usually be replaced, fully restoring your fire escape without the expense of demolishing and replacing the existing structure.

Widespread Rust

Because they’re exposed to the elements, fire escapes can quickly develop corrosion, especially if the paint has chipped. Rust will usually be limited to the surface, but it can eat through connections between stair treads and compromise supportive components.

Rusty metal can usually be preserved, but corrosion and old paint must be scraped off of the surface. A technician will then be able to evaluate its structural integrity and repair or replace any damaged pieces before a new coat of weatherproof paint is applied.

Since 1988, the professionals at M & M Welding & Fabrication have provided expert service to building owners throughout North Carolina. Their highly trained technicians use only the most advanced methods in the industry to ensure your fire escape is code-compliant and safe to use. Visit their website for more on their wide range of welding services, get tips and advice on Facebook, or call (336) 885-9353 to discuss your project with a member of their team.