Fire Protection
Fire Protection and Firefighting Arrangements for Public Assembly Buildings, Offices
and Auditoriums
Passive Fire Protection:
• Compartmentation: Divide the building into fire compartments with fire-resistant walls
and doors to contain fire and allow safe evacuation.
• Escape Routes: Clearly mark and illuminate escape routes with emergency exit signs. Stairs
should be enclosed and have self-closing fire doors.
• Fire-resistant Materials: Use fire-resistant materials for building elements like walls,
floors, and ceilings to delay fire spread and provide evacuation time.
Active Fire Protection Systems:
• Fire Alarm System: Install and maintain a functioning fire alarm system with audible
alarms and strobe lights for early fire warning.
• Sprinkler System: Consider automatic sprinkler systems to extinguish or suppress fires,
reducing damage and aiding evacuation (depending on building size and type).
• Fire Extinguishers: Place portable fire extinguishers of the appropriate type (water, foam,
dry chemical) strategically for trained staff to use on small fires.
Planning and Training:
• Fire Evacuation Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan outlining escape routes, designated
assembly points, and staff procedures during a fire.
• Staff Training: Train staff on fire safety procedures, including extinguisher use, fire alarm
operation, and evacuation assistance.
• Regular Drills: Conduct regular fire drills to familiarize occupants with the evacuation plan
and ensure a smooth response in a fire situation.
Additional Considerations:
• Fire Detection Systems: Install smoke detectors, heat detectors, and fire alarm systems
throughout the building.
• Emergency Lighting and Signage: Provide emergency lighting for escape routes and
clearly mark exits with illuminated signs.
• Fire Doors and Compartmentation: Install fire-rated doors and walls to
compartmentalize the building and prevent fire/smoke spread. Regularly inspect and maintain
fire doors.
• Accessibility for Firefighters: Ensure easy access for firefighters to hydrants, standpipes,
and fire department connections. Maintain clear access routes for firefighting equipment.
• Building Construction and Materials: Use fire-resistant materials and construction
techniques to minimize fire spread. Regularly inspect and maintain building systems to prevent
fire hazards.
• Code Compliance: Ensure the building meets all relevant fire safety codes and regulations.
Work with fire safety professionals for regular inspections and addressing deficiencies.
Specific Requirements by Building Type:
• Public Assembly Buildings:
o Adequate and regularly maintained fire extinguishers.
o Maintained hose reel hoses and nozzles.
o Fire clearance from the Chief Fire Officer after implementing fire protection measures
and escape routes.
o Annual renewal of fire clearance.
• Offices (with 500+ occupants or 100+ per floor):
o Require a Fire Safety Plan (FSP) covering fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and fire
protection measures.
• Auditoriums:
o Strategically placed fire extinguishers.
o Fire clearance from the Chief Fire Officer after implementing fire protection measures.
o Proper means of access/escape for occupants.
o Compliance with fire safety provisions as per building plans.
Remember:
• Regular maintenance of fire protection systems is crucial.
• Training and adherence to fire safety guidelines are essential for fire prevention and
management.
• Consult local building codes and fire safety regulations for specific requirements.
