Calgary’s firefighters union is raising alarms about a concerning housing trend where new apartment buildings are being constructed with only one stairwell for emergency exits. Despite the national building code requiring two stairwells in residential apartment buildings over two storeys, some regions in Canada are pushing to allow exceptions.
Recently, British Columbia modified its building code to permit buildings up to six storeys to have just one stairwell instead of two. Similarly, Edmonton released guidelines earlier this year to facilitate the approval of single-stair housing by employing alternative fire safety solutions, a process that has been available for years, leading to two approved building permits.
Jamie Blayney, president of the Calgary Firefighters Association, expressed worries that Calgary may follow suit. He emphasized the risks of occupying a single stairwell during emergencies, especially with the increasing incidence of rapidly spreading fires.
Blayney’s concerns resonate with firefighters across North America, who are advocating against such housing designs in cities like Vancouver and Los Angeles. On the other hand, proponents argue that in the face of a housing shortage, utilizing a single stairwell can expedite and lower the cost of construction.
Stephen Barnecut, a principal at Gravity Architecture, anticipates the introduction of these developments in Calgary soon. He highlighted the advantages of single-stair housing, including cost savings on stairwells and the potential for more innovative design opportunities that enhance natural light and airflow for residents.
City officials in Calgary stated that while no single-stair proposals have been submitted yet, they are willing to consider such designs if they meet equivalent safety standards as per building codes. The Calgary Fire Department would play a crucial role in assessing the impact on emergency response and ensuring compliance with site-specific conditions.
As discussions continue within the city council, Blayney remains firm in advocating for the safety benefits of two exit stairwells, underscoring the importance of prioritizing residents’ well-being in housing construction decisions.