IS 14435:1997 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for fire safety in educational institutions. This code provides guidelines for fire prevention, life safety, and fire protection specifically for educational institutions. It covers requirements for means of egress, fire detection and alarm systems, firefighting arrangements, and specific safety measures for areas like laboratories, libraries, and auditoriums.
Code of practice for fire safety in educational institutions
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
| Parameter | IS Value | International | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sprinkler System Requirement (New Buildings) | Required for buildings >15m in height or with large basements (>200 sq.m). | Required in all new educational occupancy buildings, regardless of height. | NFPA 101: 2024 |
| Fire Drill Frequency | Once every two months for the first two years, then once every six months. | One drill must be conducted each month the school is in session. | NFPA 101: 2024 |
| Minimum Corridor Width | 2.0 m for educational buildings. | Minimum 72 inches (1.83 m) for corridors serving an occupant load of 50 or more. | IBC: 2024 |
| Maximum Travel Distance (to single exit, non-sprinklered) | 22.5 m (as per National Building Code of India) | 75 ft (approx. 23 m) | NFPA 101: 2024 |
| Occupant Load Factor (Classroom Area) | 1.8 sq.m per person (as per NBC). | 20 sq ft net (approx. 1.86 sq.m) per person. | IBC: 2024 |
| Minimum Staircase Width | 1.5 m for educational buildings (as per NBC). | Minimum 44 inches (1.12 m) if serving an occupant load of 50 or more. | IBC: 2024 |
| Door Swing in Egress Path | Doors shall open in the direction of exit. | Required to swing in the direction of egress travel when serving an occupant load of 50 or more. | NFPA 101: 2024 |