Crash axes and crow bars are required under JAR-OPS Part 1:
"1.795 - Crash Axes and Crowbars
(a) An operator shall not operate an aeroplane with a maximum certificated take-off mass exceeding 5700 kg or having a maximum approved passenger seating configuration of more than 9 seats unless it is equipped with at least one crash axe or crowbar located on the flight deck. If the maximum approved passenger seating configuration is more than 200 an additional crash axe or crowbar must be carried and located in or near the most rearward galley area.
(b) Crash axes and crowbars located in the passenger compartment must not be visible to passengers."
I suspect that this is an ICAO requirement but I don't have a copy of the Annex 6 with me.