I think a rope/cable and a harness with a traction pulley on it would be sufficient. Perhaps they can build them into the stairwells?
Dang! I hate it when it double posts me...
Also, what about putting a big reservoir of water up on the top of the building so that they can get water DOWN in the event of a fire. It would have to be designed to tolerate earthquakes and winds, but should be doable.
> a rope/cable and a harness with a traction pulley on it would be sufficient...
That might do it. My first thought was a fire house pole and a good pair of gloves :) But a thousand people evacuating a building by parachute? Yikes!
Such equipment is for sale now
See http://store.milliondollarideashow.com/esr.html
and http://www.securityprousa.com/rehiribu.html
If you have some mountainering skills, try
http://www.chiefsupply.com/cmc-escape-line-kit.phtml
If you figure 15 ft to a 'story', then a standard rock climbing rope (150 Ft) or an extended version (165 ft) should get you out of a 9 or 10 floor building.
Dont forget your attachment device, harness, 'biners, smoke mask and gloves
Personally, I would not work above the 8th floor.
YMMV