This part of BS 5588 provides guidance, additional to that in the other parts of BS 5588. for designers, the building construction team and building managements on incorporating into new buildings, or buildings that are being altered, measures that enable disabled people to be assisted to safety in the event of a fire. It applies to all buildings except single-family dwelling houses, flats and maisonettes and buildings used as a house in multiple occupation.
This part of BS 5588 is not applicable to buildings purpose built for disabled people, including Health Care Premises which are covered by specific guidance documents issued by Government Departments and NHS Estates.
NOTE 1 These are usually provided with means of escape that are more comprehensive than those recommended in this part of BS 5588.
People with learning difficulties are not catered for in this standard as they need to be treated no differently from children or the very elderly with regards to their needs.
NOTE 2 Application of this standard to existing buildings is covered in Annex A.