Emergency exit window: Window as 2nd escape route

Emergency exit windows can save lives in an emergency. As a second escape route, they allow people to escape from the building if the stairwell or doors are no longer passable. In this article, you will find out when windows are permitted as emergency exits, which regulations apply to emergency exit windows and what needs to be taken into account during planning.

Important: Sun protection systems such as Roller Shutters or External Venetian Blinds can also be integrated in such a way that the second escape route is guaranteed at all times.

Let us advise you:

An emergency exit window is a window that serves as a second escape route in the event of a fire or emergency - especially in rooms that are not directly connected to a corridor with two structural escape routes. It provides an additional escape route to the outside or access to the room for the fire department.

The regulations for emergency exit windows are set out in the state building regulations. DIN 18065 applies as a guide, supplemented by requirements from DIN 18015 (for electrical systems) and the state building regulations (LBO) of the respective federal state:

Note: Additional requirements may apply depending on the federal state. It is therefore essential to consult the responsible building authority.

Not every window may be used as an emergency exit window. It is permitted if:

• it leads directly to the outside (e.g. first floor or accessible with a rescue ladder),

• it meets the above dimensions,

• it can be opened without restriction and without tools,

• any existing sun protection can be opened manually - e.g. using an emergency crank or automatic opening function in the event of a power failure.

If a window is fitted with an external sun protection system such as a Roller Shutters or external blinds, it must be ensured that the escape route is not blocked.

This can be ensured with the following measures:

• Emergency release by hand crank

• Emergency power supply (e.g. via battery with solar drive)

• Integration into a Smart Home system with automatic unlocking in the event of an alarm

• Activation via smoke detector or fire alarm control panel

ROMA systems meet these requirements for maximum security in an emergency and convenience in everyday life. Thanks to intelligent technology and sophisticated control concepts, ROMA products can be planned in such a way that they reliably open the second escape route in the event of a fire.

Whether it's a new build or renovation: planning an emergency exit window must be done professionally and at an early stage. In addition to the structural conditions, the integration of technical components - such as sun protection, insect screens or Smart Home - also plays a role.