Annual Fire Escape Service
1032.2.1.2 of the 2022 California Fire Code (CFC) and San Francisco Fire Code Section 908 states that fire escape stairways and balconies must be kept clear, unobstructed, and in good working order at all times. The CFC is a set of regulations that address fire prevention and safety in buildings and structures throughout California. Chapter 10 of the CFC, titled "Means of Egress", covers other requirements for exits, exit accesses, and exit discharges, including:
Keeping these areas free of obstructions or impediments so they can be used immediately in the event of an emergency
Ensuring that security devices affecting means of egress are approved by a fire code official
Make sure that security enclosures, fences, or screening for fire escape stairways are approved by a fire code official and don't impede public access to the egress.
At Great Escape Fire Escape Service we service the following types of ladders:
Accordion
Weight shift
Sectional
Pole
Straight
Our Services provide the following:
Lower, Lubricate, and inspect ladders
Inspect the locking/release mechanism and retracting cable
Wire-brush clean moving part of drop ladders
Lubrication of all moving joints and the retracting cable
Check ladders egress path and landing platforms are free of obstructions
Report any rust forming on the fire escape system
Replace barrel (custom made) and crank
Replace Cable
A Certificate will be issued to the property Owner/Property Manager upon completion of service.
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We drop and lubricate the ladder
We check the path of egress
We visually inspect the entire system
We offer Barrel Replacement (custom made)
We offer cable replacement
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Clear the path of egress. This includes the platforms and landing path from the drop ladder to the street. The path should be completely unobstructed. Fire escapes and drop zones should be always kept clear. This is the law in San Francisco.
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We document any deficiency or areas of concern pertaining to rust, corrosion or malfunction on the fire escape drop ladder.
We offer a referral list for repairs such as Iron Works and Painters.
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Yes, we issue a certificate of inspection/Service and keep it on file so you have a record that the fire escapes have been serviced. The following agencies may look ask for the certificate.
The San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD)
The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (SFDBI)
It is also possible that a Section-604 inspector may ask to see it to complete the 5-year structural affidavit
We also add stickers to the fire escape with month and year of service
