SYDNEY - AussieJournal -- Stair pressurisation is a fire safety system designed to keep stairwells free from smoke during a fire emergency. When a fire alarm is activated, the system automatically switches on, using mechanical fans to force fresh air into the stairwell. This creates higher air pressure inside the stairwell compared to surrounding areas of the building.

The pressure difference is what helps prevent smoke from entering through door gaps and openings, maintaining a clearer and more breathable escape path for building occupants.

At the same time, the system must be carefully balanced to ensure doors remain easy to open, allowing people to move safely and efficiently through the stairwell during an evacuation.

Why stair pressurisation matters in the workplace

During a fire, smoke is often the greatest danger rather than the flames themselves. Smoke can spread rapidly throughout a building, reducing visibility, impacting air quality and making evacuation more difficult.

In workplace environments, where multiple people may need to evacuate at once, safe and accessible exit routes are critical. In multi-storey buildings, stairwells are the main evacuation pathway, but without protection they can quickly become filled with smoke and unsafe to use.

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Stair pressurisation systems are designed to prevent this from happening. By helping keep smoke out of the stairwell, they support a clear and breathable escape route so employees and visitors can exit the building as safely and efficiently as possible.

A properly operating system also helps support a more orderly evacuation, reduces panic and improves overall building safety during an emergency.

Supporting compliance and ongoing safety

Stair pressurisation is not only considered best practice, but is also required in many buildings under the Building Code of Australia, particularly in situations where smoke hazard management is necessary.

These systems must be installed and maintained in accordance with relevant Australian Standards, including routine testing to confirm they are operating as intended.

Like any mechanical fire safety system, ongoing maintenance is essential. System performance relies on maintaining the correct airflow, air pressure and balance throughout the building. Regular servicing helps ensure the system will perform effectively during an emergency, when reliable operation matters most.

To discuss stair pressurisation within your building, learn more on our website and contact our team - https://coralfire.com.au/stair-pressurisation/.