jstefan posted on June 03, 2010 15:08
The aisles, at the sides, center and rear, of the church serve as escape routes during a fire or other life safety events. We want to/must keep them open so that people can exit our building easily and quickly in an emergency. If our aisles are obstructed the church could be liable for any loss or damage to individuals or their personal property if they cannot exit freely.
Therefore bringing chairs into the aisles to sit on when there are empty seats available is not a risk we are willing to take, so we are letting everyone know so that they understand the reason when we ask that the chairs be removed. The two rear doors on the far right and left of the church are exit doors that need to be accessible at all times. There are fire regulations that require the aisles to be clear.
The stairwell near the organ is also an escape route. This needs to be free and clear so that people can exit there and go outside through the fellowship hall. The requirements also state that there can be no flammable materials in that stairwell so that a fire cannot burn in that escape route.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
Howard Karst,
WSDA Risk Officer