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The goal behind the design of installing smoke control and management systems is to reduce the amount of smoke that is produced during an incident involving a fire. The NFPA stated on its website that “Studies have shown that most fire deaths are not caused by burns at all but instead by smoke inhalation. Smoke can be quite hazardous, and its effects stretch far beyond just being toxic. Smoke obstructs light and limits occupant visibility.” These designs are to promote life safety, property protection, and regulatory compliance.
Buildings such as high-rises can benefit from the use of smoke control systems. The advantage of requiring a smoke control and management system is that it preserves life safety and by means of providing an environment the occupants to escape as the smoke moves through the space. High-rises, atriums, correctional facilities, stages/platforms or similar structures are known to use these systems. A common disadvantage would first be the cost in addition to the complexity of the installation. The maintenance, cost, and testing may be presented as an added burden to a company.
The necessity for Fire-rated doors with magnetic door closers that are connected to the fire alarm system is required for maintaining safe evacuation routes. Fire Detection Shop stated on there website that “Their key feature is the ability to automatically release doors when a fire alarm activates, ensuring immediate closure to contain fire and smoke. These devices eliminate the dangerous practice of manually propping doors open, which compromises building safety.” Door closers and Panic hardware are required in high-rise buildings. A fire alarm activation ensures that occupants can evacuate quickly in a safe manner.
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Wet and dry chemical agents have some advantages in fire suppression, but there are some limitations with their functions. They have a limited range for attacking a fire when compared to other methods, such as water hoses. Some of the chemical agents have been known to contaminate the environment and expose chemical agents to the operator of the equipment. The remnants or residues can potentially expose others who to harmful materials. In addition, those same chemical agents can corrode equipment and structures after their use. According to Engineered Corrosion Solutions’ website they mentioned that “Because of the excess available oxygen, dry pipe sprinkler systems corrode substantially faster than wet pipe systems unless a nitrogen-based corrosion control system is implemented.” This has an effect that may be costly for maintenance and its availability.
Having discharge tests for fire suppression systems should be done according to local guidelines and within the parameters of the leading authority. Testing the fire extinguishers takes into account the local regulations, manufacturer recommendations, the specific application of the system, its age, and any changes that have been made. Impact Fire stated on their website that “Regular inspections allow for early detection of any damage, deterioration, or malfunctioning parts in fire extinguishers. This proactive approach enables prompt repairs or replacements, ensuring the extinguishers are in optimal working condition when needed.” Following these standards can contribute to a safety environment for the staff and occupants.
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Suppression systems that use water are known to be very effective in preventing the spread of fire for many companies owning structures and their occupants. Frequent water flow testing is very important in ensuring that a water-based fire protection system functions correctly when needed. NFPA stated on its website that “It has been seen that in 79 percent of incidents in which sprinklers failed to operate, the system had been accidentally shut off, damaged, or had a lack of maintenance. This is a reason why the inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of a fire sprinkler system is so crucial.” Corrosion and sedimentation can occur over time and may affect the system’s performance. This can be dangerous for firefighters who need water immediately. Testing the water supply also ensures that the necessary flow and pressure requirements are met so proper fire suppression can be carried out.
NFPA 25 provides some good information for setting inspection standards. However, there are other standards that provide guidelines for the inspection and testing. NFPA 22 is considered for water tanks. Kord Fire protection highlighted on their website that “Water tanks need to be able to withstand forces from harsh weather and natural disasters, such as snow, wind, and earthquakes, as well as hold up to the load of the water they store.” This is critical because some of these events may require water themselves as an intervention for emergencies.
NFPA 13 covers the design and installation of sprinkler systems. NFPA 14 highlights the installation and maintenance of standpipe systems. NFPA 20, provides guidelines for the installation and maintenance of fire pumps. Standards such as these are put into place to make sure that water-based fire protection systems are properly maintained and ready to be used when necessary.
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Both organizations have an aim for safety and effectiveness in the industry. The ICC code development process consists of 9 steps (about 3 years) to complete. The ICC process allows anyone to submit changes to the codes, which can ensure a more thorough product upon completion. Their process encourages public hearings and a collaboration of ideas. A disadvantage to the ICC is that regardless of the public’s comments, only the active governmental members are allowed to vote for final decisions. The ICC mentioned on its website that “Many inquiries on the status of ICC Standards are routinely received by staff.” These actions tend to influence what is actually carried out in the end. My suggestion for improving their organizational methods would be to flesh out the less important redundancies that may be covered by overlapping professions to make the process quick and efficient.
The NFPA is a much faster process. They have the advantage of completing their process in only 4 steps. That allows interested parties to submit changes to already existing committies for approving new standards. The NFPA says on its website that “ NFPA Technical Committees and Panels serve as the principal consensus bodies responsible for developing and updating all NFPA codes and standards.” Depending on the document type and code cycle, the NFPA code development process may take between 101-141 weeks. The NFPA has a lack of transparency with their committee decisions and uses of new technological developments in the process.
My suggestion for improving their organizational methods would be to continue to reevaluate their steps and their criterias by considering recent research and input from departments that willing to volunteer call data. This may include new findings within the field of Fire Science. Yes, the process is faster but there will always be more room for accuracy
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High-rise fire incidents present special challenges due to the height of these structures. There is a potential for a higher rate of fire spread that would not occur in smaller buildings. Due to these buildings being high above ground, there is a factor of managing access and egress as well. Reaching the seat of the fires and evacuating occupants can become difficult if the areas being attacked by fire in the preceding floors.
Many changes in the layout of the building, stored materials, and fire protection systems are developing increasing challenges for planning, containment and suppression efforts. The frequent occurrence of renovations without proper codes being applied has increased the risk of injury for the occupants and firefighters. National Firefighter Corps. stated on its website that “This fact becomes even more relevant when regarding the top floors of taller buildings, where the spread of heat and smoke can make finding safety more difficult for trapped inhabitants.” This added factor has presented a unique challenge.
However, there has been a rise in enforcing fire codes, proper preplanning, and the evolving fire techniques that have been incorporated by many departments. These steps, while considering data from new research, may close the gap in the complexity of these new buildings and fire safety.
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Preplanning before fire incidents is a good way for firefighters to safe and ready during events that involve concrete and metal materials. Many buildings, garages, warehouses and stored organic materials supplies are in structures that need to be reviewed during preplanning. Steel frame/limited combustible buildings are constructed in different ways that provide different kinds of support. Operating on roofs may present several components to consider before an event: The age, materials and the pitch of the roof should be reviewed as well. Firefighter Nation mentions on its website that “Panelized roof systems have been around for many years and are constructed both conventionally and of lightweight materials. Regardless of style, it’s imperative that you first identify the structural members considered to be “safe zones” and work from these areas for the duration of the operation. The identification of safe methods before a problem arises is effective way of keeping fire crew safe. Ventilating a roof can be a challenge when the structure is being attacked by a fire. The internal structure may be constructed with different materials than what is shown on the outside (like a garage). In Florida, firefighter face the challenge of reinforced material due to storm preparations. After a storm, some repairs may not be up to standards, that may present new risks.
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The “new and improved” materials used in Florida have presented new challenges. The use of modern furnishing contribute to the challenges face by firefighters due to their flame spread rating, the rate and smoke passage. Fire Engineering has stated on its website that “In its Life Safety Code (NFPA 101), the NFPA notes that lightweight construction can lead to faster fire growth and spread and earlier collapse of the building structure.” The smoke produced from the burning materials has caused the smoke to interfere with the visual components of combating a fire. With these changes in smoke has added another aspect of danger for the occupants.
More synthetic materials have been used across the world but other countries have used measures to limit the types of materials used. The CDC in partnership with NIOSH mentioned on its website that “New construction technology such as engineered wood floor joists may fail sooner than traditional construction methods.” Research is still being conducted on a more safe and cost cost-effective methods of construction.Although, the field of firefighting has evolved, the use of lightweight materials which is widely used by builders are mostly sought after primarily to cut down on cost and stay within budget. The transportation and actual construction have been known to be quicker to meet deadlines for construction companies, the business, and other interested parties. However, these lightweight materials are also known to burn a lot faster than the prior materials that are used. This causes a severe reduction in time for firefighters to contain and suppress a fire. Other countries have used much heavier materials that have reduced the speed of which they would compromise the structure of buildings.
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Florida has a unique concern of Hurricanes which can bring a significant amount of flooding and wind damage to buildings and other structures. Windows and doors must be rated to withstand a certain measure of force from the wind to ensure safety. The soil and it contents must be able to withstand the load of the homes and buildings, especially during times of extra rain. Sinkholes are also a concern due to erosion and the type of soil, dirt, and stone. Basements also rarely exist in Florida home designs.
In California, there more measurements taken for wildfires and earthquakes. Designs and construction for these places would ensure fire-resistant or non-combustible precautions are put into place. The Western Fire Chiefs Association website mentioned that “Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles are highly fire-resistant and are a very common material among homes in the U.S.” Fuel for fires are regulated with water sources that are kept relatively closer to residential areas. The foundations and structures of the buildings must be able to withstand the violent shaking of frequent earthquakes.
Places like Washington and Minnesota would have to deal with the harsh winters. The snow load and its freezing temperatures must be accounted for. As mentioned in the Chapter 3 Structural Design Features of Buildings video, which highlights that “the force of gravity is the most common of load on a structure” (2:22). Basements may be prevalent in these areas. There are also considerations for additional or larger heat sources to maintain comfortable temperatures.
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With many documented tragedies that have been associated with fire in public structures, it seems that the best way to put into practice what we have learned is by focusing on prevention. Many times, the ability of the occupants to vacate the premises is hindered by improper designs and/or inspections. The means of egress is very important for every person within a structure.
Fire Inspectors should make sure hallways and pathways are free from any obstacles. Items that block the pathways can impede quick evacuation for its occupants. These exits must not be obstructed. Clear routes are essential for safe and efficient evacuation. Exit doors must work properly and code compliant. Fire Inspectors should check that they are not locked and swing in the direction of travel. Functional doors are crucial for providing a primary means of escape. Many times panic hardware is recommended or required to be used on exit doors.
The exit sign should be visible and well-lit. Fire Inspectors ensure these lights are clearly marked and visible even in low light or during power outages. Compliant exit signs help guide occupants to the nearest exit, preventing confusion during evacuation. Fire Inspectors must ensure that the emergency lighting is operational. These lights should provide enough light to illuminate the way to the proper exits. Accessibility features for physically challenged individuals is very important as well. Facilities must have features like ramps, wide doorways, and audible/visual alarms that are sufficient to garner attention.
The path of egress itself is made up of different components. The NFPA website reminded us when it said, “As a reminder, the means of egress is made up of three parts: the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge. Exit access includes all travel within occupied areas of the building leading up to an exit. Exits are those portions of the means of egress that are separated from other building spaces, protecting the space from the effects of fire, such as an enclosed exit stair or a door to the outside. Exit discharge is the travel leading from the exit to the public way (designated and approved point of safety.)” These elements ensure a practical plan is put into place in the event of an emergency.
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There are some key differences between Fire Protection Systems and Fire Notification Systems. Fire Trace International mentioned on their website that “Fire suppression systems, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems are all types of fire protection systems that help with fire detection and protecting building occupants and equipment.” A Fire Notification System is different in that it alerts people of a fire.
Fire Notification Systems play an important role in notifying all the occupants in a structure of a fire. Smoke Detectors detect smoke and sound an alarm to alert it’s occupants. Multiple fire alarm systems are installed in many facilities. These devices contain manual pull stations, audible alarms, and strobing lights to alert individuals of a fire. Concerning fire alarm systems, NFPA states on its website that “ A fire alarm system can notify the occupants and in some cases on site emergency forces of an emergency. Notification is provided via visible and audible notification appliances. The visible notification is typically provided via strobes, and audible notification is provided by either speakers, which can provide different tones and voice signals, or horns, which can only provide a single sound.” Public Address Systems or (PA Systems) allow for verbal instructions to be given to occupants during an emergency. As noted in one of the course videos, the majority or all the individuals do not adhere to fire alarms alone; only when clear instructions come from a leading individual, do they vacate the area.
A Fire Protection Systems is the component that provides the actual suppression of a fire. These systems come in many forms. Sprinkler Systems release water when a fire is detected, helping to control or extinguish the fire. This function happens automatically. Fire Extinguishers are portable devices that can be used by an individual to put out small, manageable fires. They are used for class A, B and or C fires. In other cases, Fire Suppression Systems may employ agents such gas or foam to suppress fires, often used in areas where water damage from sprinklers would cause more damage and encourage spreading. Whether it’s Fire Notification or Fire Protection, both play a role in helping people stay safe from fire-related events.
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Hi Romy,
I like that you highlighted the point that hospitals require smoke control to protect vulnerable patients who may not be able to evacuate quickly. It can easily be seen why this is very crucial to have for people who are sick, injured, and the staff members who are present. The NFPA mentioned on its website that “Smoke can also be very hot, burning the interior of your lungs. Luckily, in the event of a fire, smoke control systems can help occupants avoid smoke when evacuating a building.” With the changing landscape of building designs, furniture, and the type of items that are being stored, the smoke that is developing is becoming more lethal to exposed individuals.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciate how you mentioned that smoke control systems are especially useful in high-rise buildings, atriums, large shopping malls, and assembly occupancies because they help guide smoke away from people and allow for safe exits. The are public places where every occupant that enters the building assumes that safety measures such as these have been met. NFPA highlighted this point on their website that “To maintain tenability within a buildings egress path, smoke control systems must be properly designed, installed and tested in accordance with NFPA 92. This system is part of an overall life safety plan that helps ensure the well-being of building occupants.” It is good that the methods and designs with these devices are well-regulated.
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Hi Romy,
I appreciate the point you brought out that performing a discharge test every few years is essential to ensure the system’s reliability and effectiveness. Sometimes this can be overlooked. Safety Culture also highlighted on their website that “The US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 10 mandates that portable fire extinguishers must undergo an initial inspection upon installation and monthly thereafter to detect any maintenance or accessibility issues.” This is a great standard to enforce when preserving life and property are involved.
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Hi Rodney,
I agree with your point that dry chemicals can create visibility issues and leave corrosive residues that may damage equipment, while wet chemicals can create slippery surfaces and require extensive cleanup. This consequence of using this method can also make for a dangerous scene, depending on what items are lying around. National Firefighter Corp. mentioned on their website that “When the liquid comes into contact with cooking oils and fats, it reacts to produce foam, subsequently cooling the affected area and preventing the fire from reigniting.” While this option may be effective in some circumstances, it may not be the case for others.
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Hi Romy,
I like that you highlight that regular testing of fire protection systems is essential to ensure they function correctly when needed. It is true that over time, issues like clogs, leaks, or mechanical failures can develop, which could compromise the system’s effectiveness during a fire. NFPA stated on its website that “In some cases it may be as simple as restoring a valve to the correct position. In other cases there may be additional investigations required or the need to replace components.” It may seem like common sense to check the system for these things, but sometimes it may be overlooked. This kind of protection requires a proactive approach, which is why I believe these standards are very important.
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Hi Michael,
I appreciate that you highlighted the other standards that correspond to NFPA 25, such as NFPA 13, for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 22, for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection, and NFPA 24, for Fire Service Water Mains. It’s good that we have these additional measures to ensure the safety of these structures. NFPA quoted a report on its website when it mentioned “Sprinkler systems are exceptionally reliable, such that the chance of dying in a fire is reduced by 90 percent when sprinklers are installed in a building, according to the NFPA® research report “U.S. Experience with Sprinklers.” This report also shows that property damage in dollars is reduced by up to 2/3 depending on occupancy type when sprinklers are present.” We can see the importance of enforcing these standards when public safety and property damage is a concern.
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Hi Romy,
I like the comment you made about how the NFPA’s code development process is consensus-based, encouraging public participation at every step and ensuring diverse input. I think this is crucial for moving forward with new developments. NFPA stated on their website that “One of the most notable features about NFPA’s standards development process is that it is a full, open, consensus-based process.” It is a feature that should be considered my all the organizations that are involved with public safety.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciated how you highlighted that each group tries to include the right people, but there’s room for improvement. This is a concept that should always be put into practice by any organization and is even more relevant for the Fire Service. ICC mentioned on its website that “Participation of the various stakeholders in an equitable, accessible and responsive environment is key in developing a consensus standard for recognition as an American National Standard.” The input should also consider the ideas of the leading industry experts.
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Hi Jairo,
Thank you for highlighting that changes in building configurations, materials, and fire protection systems lack of proper oversight, have compromised the safety of occupants and responding firefighters. It is known that cost, convenience has become more of a driving factor for how these buildings are being constructed. The high-rises are no different in following with the current trends. However, the National Firefighter Corp. mentioned a promising perspective when they mentioned, “ Fortunately, thanks to research efforts, some of these issues are now in the process of being resolved with field-tested equipment and refined tactics.” As new safe and effective ideas are implemented, this may lead to major progress in the field of fire safety.
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Hi Joel,
It was good that you highlighted that automatic sprinkler systems are now common in high-rise buildings, aiding in controlling and suppressing fires. The enforcement of fire safety has made a difference in what is actually being installed in the buildings. National Firefighter Corps mentioned on its website, “Traditionally, fire departments met the challenge by delivering water from the lower floors to the areas above through vertical “high-rise nozzles’. Unfortunately, the early models were large and heavy, forcing firefighters to lean out of windows to attach nozzles to windowsills.” It is great to see that other methods are being used.
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Hi Franklin,
I appreciate that you mentioned that in Florida, firefighters face unique challenges such as high humidity, rapid weather changes. Florida is different in its topography and location on the map. Due to the factors that you mentioned, homes and buildings are being built accordingly. They are meant to protect and preserve the people and property but present a challenge to fire behavior and predict the right measures to take to ensure safety. Firefighter Nation highlighted this thought (in regard to roofs in particular) when it mentioned on its website that “ As companies gain confidence in working on top of these roofs and identifying structural members, operations will naturally become safer and more efficient.” Planning a head is essential in managing the materials and methods that are used in Florida.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciate that you brought out the fact that the biggest threats include rapid fire spread due to synthetic materials, early structural collapse, and toxic smoke. Although the uses of these materials are cost effective, they pose major risk to firefighters and its occupants. Firefighter Nation mentioned on its website that “It’s always good to check and recheck what we do in the fire service, so use as many techniques as possible for identifying the safe zones on these roofs.” This is very important for rescue operations to be done safely.
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Hi Franklin,
I appreciate the information that you brought out about the spread of the fires due to the lightweight construction. It seems that the idea of saving money and scheduling deadlines has affected the safety of how some if these structures are built. Firerescue1 quoted NFPA in its website when it stated ” The NFPA states that, “Although these materials reduce construction costs and have consistently demonstrated equivalent or even superior quality under non-fire conditions, the same cannot be said when these materials are exposed to fire loading during a residential structure fire. The result is progressive structural collapse due to the failure of these lightweight structures, resulting in firefighter injuries and death.” It seems that if this is a factor, some of the consequences can be prevented if we adjust the materials and methods that is being used.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciate how you brought out the point that high humidity and hurricane-resistant features like impact windows and reinforced doors make ventilation and entry more difficult. We often think of the comfort and safety these features add to our home, but many of us forget the effects these changes may have on our buildings and homes during a fire emergency. Firehouse mentioned in their website that “In test done by a fire department in Florida, it took a firefighter equipped with the usual hand tools over five minutes to exit a hurricane window. If these windows are found, interior operations must be adjusted.” This additional time can make a difference for someone’s survival.
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Hi Franklin,
I appreciate that you highlighted some of the factors, such as hurricane winds and water intrusion. Tri-Town Construction website mentioned that “The state responded with some of the nation’s strictest standards, designed to safeguard lives, reduce property loss, and help communities recover faster after major storms.” In some cases, like certain trees, water accumulation can be easier to reduce with the right structures (like drainage and landscape design).
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Hi Rodney,
I like that you highlighted that Florida construction codes have mandated wind-load compliance and flood mitigation. With rising prices in materials and shipping, I would imagine the safety in these areas of building and designing would be overlooked. The Tri-Town Constructions website mentioned that “Years of destruction made one thing clear: in Florida, building codes cannot be optional.” It would work well if we can keep improving on the codes and standards despite the cost because the potential loss of life is a far greater consequence.
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Hi Romy,
I appreciate your response to the assignment. I appreciate the fact that you highlighted the importance of emergency lighting among your other answers. Even thou many people have flashlights in their cellphones, in moments of emergency, the immediate path to escape during an emergency takes primary precedence. It would be difficult without adequate lighting, especially for those who are impaired mentally and physically.
Occupational Health & Safety highlighted its importance when it mentioned, “Emergency lighting maintenance is more than just a safety task. It is a legal requirement that affects how well your facility meets OSHA and fire code standards. Regular emergency lighting checks help confirm that lights will work during a power outage or emergency, giving people a safe way to exit the building. Skipping these inspections can lead to fines, safety hazards, and even legal action after an incident.” Clearly, this is a matter that is taken very seriously by regulating authorities.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciate your response to the assignment. I appreciate the fact that you highlighted the occupancy load and the egress capacity among your other answers. It is one of the most important items for Fire Inspectors to inspect in a facility. Interestingly, many places renovate or change their layout based on what best suit their needs, but sometimes little consideration is given to fire safety. FireAlarm.com stated, “Occupant load is an important concept when it comes to fire safety and code requirements. Depending on your occupant load, you may be required to install sprinklers, conduct certain risk analysis studies, and / or you may have to provide additional means of egress for your occupants.” We can see that occupant load and the egress capacity work well hand in hand.
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Hi Romy,
Thank you for your response to the assignment. I appreciate how you highlighted that it is essential to recognize the importance of the systems and that they are maintained properly. We have seen many horrible tragedies that could have been prevented by using these tools proactively. Alarm Masters Security and Fire mentioned on their website that “The combination of these systems ensures a robust emergency response that prioritizes your safety in life-threatening situations.” It is even more important in public places where people assume that local business and municipalities have done their due diligence in maintaining these systems.
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Hi Rodney,
I appreciate how you mentioned the fact of using Clean Agents Systems for fire protection. When there is fire, water is usually the fire thing people think about (if they decide to fight the fire). There are some circumstances where adding water would make it a lot worse such as situations that involve really hot metals. Removing a component of the Fire Triangle still appears to be the most effective approach on fire any type of fires. The NFPA has stated, “Often times sprinkler systems are the required, go-to solution for protecting people and property against fire hazards. While they do an excellent job at this, sometime there is a need to quickly suppress a fire and protect high value sensitive items and this is where clean agents come into play, they have the ability to protect these assets by extinguishing fires without damaging equipment in the area.” Using this concept has allowed an alternative approach to fight fire when water is not recommended.
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