By: Pramod Jain, Creative Architects and Interiors (CAI), Chennai
This is the use of building components to control or limit the impact of fire. For instance, building components such as walls, floors, ceilings, etc. can be designed with
Fire-rated walls and doors are used to contain the fire. They prevent the horizontal passage of fire. The fire rating of the wall may vary from 20 minutes to 4 hours. It is calculated for fire exposure on one or both sides of the wall.
These measures involve taking direct physical action to reduce the spread of fire or the migration of smoke. They include sprinklers, fire hydrants, extinguishers, and smoke detectors. They are often activated either automatically or manually. Fire is graded into different classes depending on the fire-causing agent. Water, CO2, or Dry Chemical Extinguisher is used according to the class of fire. An adequate number of extinguishers are placed in strategic locations for efficient use. Sprinklers are coupled with high-grade sensors of different types depending on the need. The capacity and type of the extinguisher is decided depending on the fire-causing agent.
Several technologies have been developed to make façads more fire safe. Some of the latest trends and technologies include:
Fire-resistant coatings: These coatings are applied to the surface of building materials to improve their fire resistance.
Fire-resistant glazing: This is typically made from heat-strengthened or tempered glass and can include coatings or interlayers that improve its fire resistance. And it is designed to limit the spread of fire and smoke.
Fire-resistant insulation: It is designed to maintain its structural integrity and insulating properties in the event of a fire.
Fire-resistant cladding: They are made from materials like ceramics, metals, and composites. It is used to limit the spread of fire and smoke through the building.
Fire-resistant louvres: Louvres used in the façades are now made with fire-resistant materials and are tested for fire resistance.
Smart Building Automation Systems: These systems detect and respond to fire events in a building by activating alarms, closing fire doors, and shutting off ventilation systems. They also can provide real-time monitoring of the building’s fire safety systems and alert building occupants and emergency responders to potential fire hazards.
It’s important to note that the suitability of these technologies and trends depends on the specific building design, location, and local building codes and regulations.
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