Designing for Safety: How APS Impacts Egress, Fire Code & Building Flow

When most developers and architects hear “automated parking,” they think of space savings. What they don’t always realize is how dramatically APS impacts life safety design, egress planning, and code compliance.

Harding APS systems don’t just change how vehicles move—they change how buildings work.

No Human Occupancy = Less Risk

Traditional garages require active fire suppression, clear pedestrian egress, ventilation systems, and high visibility. But APS systems:

  • Don’t have people walking inside

  • Sometimes stairs are required for fire access

Often allow alternative fire protection strategies with local AHJs

This makes APS safer by default and easier to justify to permitting officials.


Built to Code from the Start

All Harding APS systems are designed to comply with:

  • UL 508A industrial control panels

  • NFPA 88A parking structure requirements

  • NEC Article 625 for EV charging

We proactively communicate with local fire marshals, permitting departments, and plan reviewers to ensure smooth approvals.

Integrate Safety with Simplicity

By removing the need for humans to navigate parking structures, APS allows your design team to rethink life safety layouts, reduce complexity, and create smarter and safer buildings.