K and H Construction is Portland’s leading fire escape service and testing provider that can take care of all your fire escape needs.
K and H Construction Services is your trusted partner in ensuring the reliability and safety of your fire escape systems. At K and H Construction, we specialize in conducting fire escape load testing, recertifications, and repairs, providing you with the peace of mind that your emergency egress routes are up to the highest standards. We work closely with the engineer and follow all engineer calculations and plans to assess the load-bearing capacity of your fire escapes with precision and accuracy. We understand the critical role these structures play in emergency situations, and our commitment to excellence ensures that your fire escape systems are not only compliant with regulations but also prepared to handle the unexpected. Choose K and H Construction for thorough, reliable, and efficient services that prioritize the safety of your occupants. Safeguard your building with confidence, because when it comes to fire escape load testing, we’re the name you can trust.
Portland City Code (PCC) Title 31, 31.20.080
The fire inspector shall determine whether or not the fire escape is an “imminent hazard” based upon key visual indicators. Key visual indicators include missing pieces, deformation of joints due to rust development, loose or absent connections between pieces, or degraded connections to the structure.
Routine Maintenance:
When a fire escape shows signs of rust, paint deterioration, or requires minor repairs, such as incidental welding or the replacement of nuts and bolts, the fire inspector shall cite the owner or responsible party to make the necessary repairs. Generally, a permit is not required for minor repairs and routine fire escape services or maintenance. . NOTE: the Fire Marshal’s Office shall be notified prior to taking the fire escapes out of service for maintenance or repairs.
Other Fire Escape issues:
Fire escapes found to be in a condition that constitutes a significant hazard to building occupants and/or firefighters at any time shall be cause for immediate attention. In addition to citing the owner or representative to make the repairs, Inspectors may want to consider a Stipulated Agreement due to the extended time frame sometimes necessary to complete some of this work; i.e. permit process, time of year and weather conditions can impact when and how some repairs can be made.
Requests for Removal of Existing Fire Escape Services:
Request for removal shall be completed under benefit of permit through the Bureau of Development Services. NOTE: in addition to the standpipe requirements, the number and arrangement of exits shall comply with the current Oregon Structural Specialty Code. An alternative to a code compliant exiting system may be granted through a building code appeal.
Our team is knowledgeable and has over ten years’ experience working in the industry. Our goal is to keep every fire escape in safe working order.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Do I need to hire an engineer to draw the plans for my building?
A: No, we can take care of that process for you, and it is included in the price.
Q: If I already have plans drawn, can I provide them and forgo K and H’s engineer?
A: Yes, if the plans are certified and relevant to the work we are doing.
Q: Do you travel outside of Portland?
A: Yes, we do travel to other cities in Oregon.
Q: Is a down payment required?
A: Yes, we require 30% down at the time of signing the contract. Down payment must be accepted before our engineer starts plans and/or plans are submitted to the city.
Q: When is the remaining amount due?
A: Once the affidavit is submitted to the city.
Q: Can you paint fire escapes?
A: Yes, for an additional price we can paint your fire escape. An additional estimate will be provided.
Please reach out to us for your Fire Escape Services.