Tanlaw Mill External Fire Escape Replacement
Project Overview
The University of Buckingham engaged Assesmont Group Ltd to carry out a BS 8210:2020‑compliant inspection of the external fire‑escape staircase at Tanlaw Mill. During the assessment, we identified significant deterioration, safety concerns and several previous repairs that did not meet current standards. As a result, the University instructed us to remove the existing structure and deliver a fully engineered replacement staircase.
Inspection Methodology (BS 8210:2020)
Our Fire Escape Inspection & Reporting Service follows BS 8210:2020, ensuring a consistent and thorough review of welds, treads, landings, fixings, balustrades and protective coatings. Additionally, we examined the condition of the steelwork beneath older paint systems to identify hidden deterioration.
Key Issues Identified
During the inspection, several critical issues became clear:
- Severe corrosion across treads, landings, handrails and structural steelwork.
- Delaminated landing plates creating uneven surfaces and trip hazards.
- Unsafe balustrades, including cut sections patched with Unistrut and missing fixings at the building interface.
- Incorrect and insecure tread fixings, particularly at the top landing.
- Hidden deterioration beneath old paint systems, indicating deeper structural decline.
Consequently, the staircase was deemed unsafe, non‑compliant and beyond repair.
Recommended Action: Full Staircase Replacement
Given the extent of the deterioration, repair was not a viable option. Therefore, Assesmont recommended a full staircase replacement designed to meet modern safety and durability standards.
Our Engineering Solution
We removed the entire existing structure and installed a new, purpose‑built steel staircase. Furthermore, all components were fabricated to ensure long‑term performance in external environments.
New Staircase Specification
Assesmont removed the entire existing structure and installed a new, purpose‑built steel staircase, fabricated to modern standards and designed for long‑term durability.
New Installation Included
- New landing frames (150 × 75 PFC)
- New stringers (180 × 10mm flat bar)
- New durbar treads with welded cleats
- New half‑landing and top landing plates
- New balustrade system with SHS posts, solid infill bars and engineered rails
- Powder‑coated or galvanised finish for enhanced corrosion protection
- GA drawings, RAMS, delivery, installation and Grade 8.8 fixings
Additionally, all works were completed in continuous visits to minimise disruption to the University.
Outcome
The University now benefits from a safe, compliant and robust fire‑escape staircase designed to meet modern standards and withstand long‑term external exposure. This project demonstrates Assesmont’s combined capability in BS 8210:2020 inspections, structural reporting and full‑scope steelwork replacement.