The motivation for occupants’ adoption of hidden emergency exits in buildings

Purpose: This study investigated the adaptation of hidden emergency exits in buildings. Lives and properties are lost globally due to fewer or no emergency exits in buildings in case of a disaster. The hidden exits are an alternative means to rescue occupants if the main exit is blocked. Design/methodology/approach: Structural equation modelling was used to model the effect of system features, capability and the occupant’s motivation to adopt the hidden emergency exit. A quantitative research approach was used to find out the adaptation of a hidden emergency exit in buildings using the technology acceptance model. This study adopted a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used for selecting building occupants in the Ejisu Municipality. The population of the study comprised 31,094 dwelling units. The sample size is 379, with a response rate of 72.8%, which is 276 participants. Findings: From the findings, the design variables, which are position, identification by users and number of exits recommended and security variables, had a substantial influence on perceived ease of use. Security, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use had a significant influence on the intention to use hidden emergency exits. The hypothesis was not rejected. Practical implications: The government, through the architects’ professional body, should amend the national building regulations to incorporate the system and design features of this study. Developers should consider the system and design features in the design and construction of buildings. Originality/value: The model of the effect of system features, capabilities and occupants’ motivation to use hidden emergencies is provided. This study adds to the theories of emergency exits in buildings for safe evacuation. This study will improve safety, security and the fast evacuation of lives and properties in buildings.