Fire Escape Testing

The city of Long Beach Fire Department requires a functional load test every 5 years for all existing fire escapes in the city. The objective of the functional load test is to add a representative load for live load (the potential occupants) which may need to utilize a fire escape in the event of a fire. The structural review must be witnessed by a civil engineer including a California registered professional engineer‘s seal (stamp).

The 5-year fire escape test also includes a review of deficiencies, or problems found. Functional testing of the ladder including counter balance and ability to fully engage with the ground below. 

Rigsbee Engineering has the knowledge and experience to complete 5-year fire escape tests and provide the appropriate reporting to the city as required Section 1104.16.5 of the California Fire Code and Long Beach Fire Department requirements.

With safety being a primary concern, we first review the fire escape for substantial structural deficiencies with a drone to ensure our safety prior to accessing the fire escape. The area is closed from pedestrian and vehicular traffic during the extent of the testing. Once the remote visual inspection is complete the team accesses the fire escape to further evaluate the structural integrity of the fire escape. After the in depth visual inspection, the functional load testing is completed. The load remains in place for a time where potential deflection and other indicators of failure are reviewed. Finally functional testing of ladders are completed.

Rigsbee Engineering produces the required Long Beach Fire Department 5-year fire escape document, an accompanying report detailing findings, and advises on the requirements for fire escape service tags to be installed on the fire escape.