Fire Safety and Design Principles
Purpose Built Buildings
A purpose-built building is designed and constructed from the ground up with a specific use or function in mind. This means that every aspect of its design, materials, and construction methods is tailored to meet the needs and regulations related to its intended use.
These buildings are designed with a high degree of compartmentation between each apartment. Compartmentation restricts smoke and fire to the apartment of origin for a specified amount of time. What is Fire compartmentation? Ultimately it allows a fire to be contained and therefore easier to control. With a fire that’s been contained, occupants of the building can safely evacuate while fire crews can extinguish the fire in a controlled area without fear of it spreading rapidly and causing further damage.
What is fire compartmentation?
Ultimately it allows a fire to be contained and therefore easier to control. With a fire that’s been contained, occupants of the building can safely evacuate while fire crews can extinguish the fire in a controlled area without fear of it spreading rapidly and causing further damage.
There are many different types of fire compartmentation such as:
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Buildings are constructed using different materials designed to reduce the spread of fire such as the use of brick and concrete
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Are a passive fire safety measure provided to close a concealed space against penetration of smoke and flame or provided to restrict the movement of smoke or flame within a space. This could be within a roof space or within a wall cavity.
Non-purpose Built Buildings
A non-purpose-built building, also known as a converted or adapted building, was originally designed for a different use such as an office block and has been modified to serve a new function such as a residential building. This means it may not have been constructed with the same specific fire safety considerations as a purpose-built structure.
These buildings may need significant retrofitting to meet current fire safety standards. Fire detection and suppression systems might need to be added or upgraded.
- Statistically, there is a low probability of fire spreading beyond the flat where it broke out.
- Very few fires start in communal areas and escape routes.
Building Evacuation Strategies
There are two main types of evacuation strategies: Stay put (also known as defend in place) and Simultaneous Evacuation.
‘Stay put’ Policy
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Simultaneous Evacuation
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Where Can I Find My Building Evacuation Strategy?
Your buildings evacuation strategy will be detailed within the Fire Action Notices that are located throughout your building and next to fire exits.
Your buildings evacuation strategy will also be detailed within the specific POD Fire Safety Information Pack.
Residents’ Responsibilities
- You should familiarise yourself with your building’s emergency procedures.
- Early warning of fires saves lives. You should ensure that you have working detectors in your apartment.
- You should keep fire compartmentation intact within your apartment. Removing or changing doors and making holes in walls and ceilings in apartments can facilitate and speed up smoke and fire spread throughout the building.
