FIRE SAFETY

 

Fire safety risk assessment is the first step to understand vulnerability of the occupants and also to identify the status of elements of building that determines fire and life safety. Therefore, fire safety audit forms the basis for any further action.

 

Having determined the risk, foremost objectives is to ensure life safety and safe egress of occupants from the building. Incidents of stampede reflect on failure of egress planning. The planning principles for various spaces, location and sizing of staircases, ramps need to be coupled with the provisions in building to ensure that spread of heat and smoke is contained in a compartment. This also requires that the incidence of occurrence of fire is prevented proactively.

 

In an event of fire, it is prudent that the protection measures are provided to protect spread of fire by installations using various common agents, including water and foam.

 

While the generic principles of prevention, protection and life safety are important, it is equally important to undertake special measures in special buildings, such as high-rise buildings, buildings for large congregations and buildings that cater to the people with limited capabilities (e.g. healthcare buildings).

 

In addition to the general guidance, it is vital that the access is provided to the technical literature which is of direct relevance to the persons involved in practice while the expert advise is yet to be resorted.

 

Refer to this section to Know your risk; Life safety and egress planning; Fire prevention; Fire protection; Requirements for special buildings; and, Technical literature.