Model: Balcony hatch with telescopic ladder

Applications: Emergency escape from balconies in multi-storey residential buildings, enabling safe evacuation between floors.

• Apartment buildings and residential properties
• Student housing and modular buildings
• Healthcare and assisted living facilities
• Buildings requiring alternative escape routes

Material: Galvanised steel with aluminium cover

Corrosion class: C4H

Colour (RAL): 7035 (light grey)

Dimensions: Installation opening: 620 × 620 mm or 720 × 720 mm

Ladder (extended): 1900 × 450 mm

Operation: Opening from above in case of emergency

Function in case of emergency

In an emergency, the top lid of the hatch is opened. The sealed release handle is then rotated 90° to open the lower hatch. The fire-protective insulation is pushed down, after which the telescopic ladder is lifted from its holder and unfolded. The ladder is then ready for use.

Detailed user instructions are located on the inside of the hatch and become visible when the lid is opened.

Requirements and conditions

The escape hatch is installed in an opening in the balcony floor.

The top lid is designed to withstand normal use, meaning it can be walked on and support light objects. However, in the event of a fire, any items placed on the hatch must be quickly removable. It is therefore recommended not to cover the hatch with large carpets or fixed coverings. If a rug is used, it should allow quick and easy access to the hatch.

The underside of the hatch forms part of the ceiling of the balcony below. The lower balcony can be furnished, provided that this does not obstruct the use of the hatch during evacuation.

If furniture is placed directly beneath the hatch, it must not interfere with the deployment of the ladder or descent from the balcony above. For example, a table approximately 1000 mm high can serve as a stepping platform and be positioned directly below the hatch.

These conditions should be considered both when positioning the hatch and during everyday use of the balcony.

Example drawing

Always read the installation instructions supplied with the delivery carefully before starting installation, as configuration and selected options may affect the installation process.

To ensure correct function and safe installation, the work should be carried out by a qualified installer.

Fixings and fasteners must be adapted to the specific substrate.

What is a balcony escape hatch?

A balcony escape hatch is an emergency exit integrated into the balcony floor, allowing evacuation to the balcony below via a telescopic ladder in case of fire or emergency.

Are balcony escape hatches required by building regulations?

Building regulations require safe means of escape. In some buildings, balcony escape hatches are used as an approved solution to provide an alternative escape route and meet these requirements.

How does a balcony hatch with ladder work in a fire?

The hatch is opened, the lower section is released, and a telescopic ladder is deployed. This allows for quick and safe evacuation to the balcony below.

Can a balcony escape hatch be covered with furniture or flooring?

The hatch can be walked on and light objects may be placed on top, but it must never be obstructed. In an emergency, it must be possible to open the hatch immediately without any obstacles.

How often should a balcony escape hatch be inspected?

Inspection should be carried out in accordance with applicable regulations and included in the building’s fire safety management system. This is typically done during regular fire safety inspections.