Telangana relaxes fire safety norms for existing schools and colleges
New guidelines allow for narrower staircases and flexible open space usage for educational institutions in the state.
The Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence Department has eased fire safety requirements for existing schools and junior colleges, according to reports by Urban Acres and Deccan Chronicle. The revised guidelines, issued on Wednesday, will apply to all occupancy No Objection Certificate (NOC) applications submitted from November 10.
Under the new rules, buildings taller than nine metres must have a second staircase regardless of their floor area. For structures under nine metres, a second staircase is required if any floor exceeds 500 square metres. The previous 1.5-metre width standard for additional staircases has been relaxed, with the department now accepting the maximum width possible based on available space.
The department is also allowing institutions to use existing open spaces instead of providing additional land. If setbacks are insufficient, schools must install water shower curtains on sides not facing a road and provide fire brigade inlets. Fire services director general Vikram Singh Mann said the changes address practical difficulties faced by older buildings while maintaining safety measures.
Mandatory requirements remain, including fire extinguishers for every 200 square metres. Depending on building height, institutions must install fire alarms, hose reels, and specific terrace water tanks. Schools must also keep escape routes clear, display evacuation plans, and form safety committees for staff and student training.
Occupancy NOCs issued under these revised rules will be valid for three years. Institutions are required to apply for renewal two months before the certificate expires.