9. Appendices - Parliament of NSW · Spec C2.5 Clause C2.6 ~- Clause C2.10 Clause 0.11 Clause C2.12 Clause C2.13 BCA Requirement The roof is not required to achieve an FRL. Internal

NSW Fire Brigades Research Report - Low cost rental accommodation

9. Appendices

9.1 Appendix A - Sketch plan of Typical Low-cost Rental Accommodation Building Design

NFB103399 Page 20 of 58


9.2 Appendix B - BCA Assessment

NFB103399 Page 21 of 58

BCA Clause

Clause A3.2

Clause C1.2

Clause C1.l

Clause A l . l

Clause At.t

Clause 3.1, Spec C1 .I

Table 3, Spec C1.l

'lause 3'2' Spec C1 .I

BCA Requirement

The building is classified as Class 3 under the BCA.

The building has a Rise in Stories of 5.

The building is to be constructed to Type A construction.

The building has an Effective Height of >12 m and <25 m.

Each residential accommodation room within the building is considered to be a Sole-occupancy unit (SOU).

The external walls of the building are to be non-combustible.

Loadbearing internal wails and load bearing fire wails are to be constructed of concrete or masonry.

Non-loadbearing: Internal walls that are required to be fire resisting: and Lift, ventilating, pipe, garbage or similar shaft that is not for the discharge of hot products of combustion,

must be of non-combustible construction.

Loadbearing external wails of the building are to achieve a Fire-resistance Level (FRL) of not less than 90130130.

Non-loadbearing external walls of the building are not required to achieve an FRL.

Fire walls within the building are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190.

lnternal fire-resisting wails to lift and stair shafts are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -190190 if non-loadbearing.

lnternal walls that bound public corridors, public lobbies and the like are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -160160 if non-loadbearing.

lnternal walls between or bounding SOUs are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -160160 if non-loadbearing.

lnternal walls of ventilating, pipe, garbage, and like shafts not used for the discharge of hot products of combustions are to achieve an FRL of not iess than 90190190 if loadbearing and - I90190 if non-loadbearing.

Other loadbearing internal walls, internal beams, trusses and columns are to achieve an FRL of not less than 901-I-.

Floors within the building are to achieve an FRLof not less than 90190190.

The ground floor of the building is not required to achieve an FRL.


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BCA Clause

'lause 3'5' Spec C1.l

Clause 3.7, Spec C1.l

Clause C1.10

Clause 2, Spec C2.5

Clause C2.6

~-

Clause C2.10

Clause 0 .11

Clause C2.12

Clause C2.13

BCA Requirement

The roof is not required to achieve an FRL.

Internal walls and columns in the storey immediately below the roof, other than fire walls and shaft walls, may have an FRL of 60160160.

The fire hazard properties of floor materials, floor coverings, wall and ceiling lining materials are to comply with Specification Cl.lOa of the BCA.

The fire hazard properties of other materials are to comply with Specification C1.10 of the BCA.

Smoke-proof walls required by Clause C2.14 of the BCA to divide public corridors of 40m in length into intervals of not more than 40 m must comply with the following:

Be non-combustible and extend to the underside of- - The floor above; or - A non-combustible roof covering; or - A ceiling having a resistance to the incipient spread of fire to the space

above itself for not less than 60 min. Not incorporate any glazed areas unless the glass is safety glass as defined in AS1288. Only have doorways which are fitted with smoke doors complying with Specification C3.4. Have all the openings around penetrations and junctions of the smoke-proof wall and the remainder of the building stopped with non-combustible material to prevent the free passage of smoke. Incorporate smoke dampers where air-handling ducts penetrate the wall unless the duct forms part of a smoke hazard management system required to continue air movement through the duct during a fire.

Vertical separation is required between openings in different stories. A spandrel of non- combustible material that has an FRL of not less than 60160160 or a slab or other horizontal non-combustible construction with an FRL of not less than 60160160.

The lift shaft is required to be separated off from the remainder of the building by enclosure in a shaft in which the walls have the relevant FRL prescribed by Spec C1.l

Openings for lift landing doors and services are to be protected in accordance with the DTS provisions of Part C3.

The stairway and lift are to be in separate shafts.

The lift motor room is to be separated from the remainder of the building by construction having an FRL of not less than 1201120/120, except from the lift shaft where an FRL of not less than 1201-1- is to be achieved.

Any doorway in this construction is to be protected by a self-closing -H20130 fire door.

Electricity substations are to be located external to the building.


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BCA Clause

Clause C2'14

Clause C3.8

'lause C3'11

Clause C3'12

Clause C3.13

Clause C3.15

Clause D l .3

Clause D1.4

Clause D l .5

BCA Requirement

Public corridors of more than 40 m in length are to be divided into intervals of not more than 40 m with smoke-proof walls in accordance with Clause 2 of Specification C2.5 of the BCA.

The doorways to the fire-isolated stairways are to be provided with self-closing -160130 fire doors,

The doorways to the SOUs and doorways to common areas opening to a public corridor, public lobby or the like are to be protected with self-closing or automatic closing -160130 fire doors.

Penetrations in floors and ceilings (where an FRL is required) for services are to be protected in a shaft complying with Spec C1.l or in accordance with Clause C3.15 of the BCA.

Openings to ventilating, pipe, garbage or other service shaft must be protected by: If it is within a sanitary compartment - a door or panel which is non-combustible; . A self-closing -160130 fire door or hopper; An access panel having an FRL of not less than -160130; or . if the shaft is a garbage shaft - a door or hopper of non-combustible construction.

if fire collars or other protection method is installed to protect penetrations for services in a building element that is required to achieve an FRL, the fire collar or other protection method is to achieve the required FRL.

One exit is required from each storey of the building. The building is provided with 2 exit stairways that service each storey of the building.

The 2 exit stairways are to be fire isolated.

The entrance doorway from the SOUs is not to be greater than 6 m from an exit or a point at which travel in different directions to 2 exits is available or 20 m from a single exit serving the storey at the level of egress to a road or open space.

No point on the floor of a room which is not within a SOU is to be more than 20 m from an exit or from a point at which travel in different directions to 2 exits is available.

The exits are to be uniformly distributed around or within the storey Served by the exits and in positions where unobstructed access to at least 2 exits is readily available from all points on the floor including lift lobby areas.

Alternative exits are to be not less than 9 m apart.

Alternative exits are to be not greater than 45 m apart.

Alternative exits are to be located so that alternative paths of travel do not converge such that they become less than 6 m apart.


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BCA Clause

Clause D1.6

Clause D l .7

D1.10

'lause

Clause D1.16

Clause D1.17

Clause D2.2

BCA Requirement

The required exits or the path of travel to an exit is to have an unobstructed height throughout of not less than 2 m, except that the height of any doorway may be reduced to not less than 1980 mm.

The required exits or the path of travel to an exit is to have an unobstructed width of not less then 1 m, except that the width of any doorway may be reduced to 750 mm.

All access doors to the fire isolated stairs is to be from a public corridor, public lobby or the like.

Each fire-isolated stairway is to discharge directly to open space.

Exit doors are to be provided with suitable barriers to prevent vehicles blocking them where required.

An unobstructed 1 m path of travel from the exit to the road is to be provided.

Where an exit discharges at a level different to that of the road, access to the road is to be via: A ramp having a gradient not greater than 13; or Astairway complying with the DTS provisions of the BCA.

The discharge points of alternative exits are to be located as far apart as practical.

The number of people occupying the building is to be calculated in accordance with sub-clause (c) that is, by ''any other suitable means of assessing its capacity".

Ladders are to be used to provide egress from the plant room as it has a floor area of less than 100 m2 in lieu of a stairway.

The ladders are to be contained within the fire isolated stairway shaft.

The ladders are to comply with AS 1657 and AS 1735.2 as the access and egress will be provided from a plant room and a lift machine room.

Access to lift pits will be provided through the lowest landing doors as the lift pit depth is less than m,

The fire-isolated stairways are to be constructed: . Of non-combustible material; and So that if there is a local failure it will not cause structural damage to, or impair the fire-resistance of, the shaft.



BCA Clause

Clause D2.7

'lause D2'8

Clause D2.9

Clause D2.13

Clause D2.14

'lause D2'15

BCA Requirement

Access to service shafts and services other than fire-fighting or detection equipment, is not to be provided from the fire-isolated stairways.

An opening to any chute or duct intended to convey hot products of combustion from a boiler, incinerator, fire place or the like, Is not to be located in any part of a required exit or any corridor, hallway, lobby or the like leading to a required exit.

Gas or other fuel services must not be installed in a required exit.

The following services, if enclosed by non-combustible construction or a fire protective covering with doorways suitably sealed against smoke spreading from the enclosure, may be installed in any corridor, hallway, lobby or the like leading to a required exit or a required exit ,except for fire isolated exits:

Electricity meters, distribution boards or ducts; or . Central telecommunications distribution boards or equipment; or Electrical motors or other motors serving equipment in the building.

The space below the fire-isolated stairs is not to be enclosed to form a cupboard or similar enclosed space.

The width of the stairways is to be a minimum of 1 m wide measured between all obstructions such as handrails, balustrades or other barriers and the like and extend, without interruption, for a height of not less than 2 m measured vertically above the nosings of the stairway.

The stairways are to have: Not more than 18 risers nor less than 2 risers in each flight; Risers and goings complying with the DTS provisions of the BCA; Risers and goings that are constant throughout each flight; Risers which do not have any openings that would allow a 125 mm sphere to pass through the treads; . Treads which have a non-slip finish; Treads of solid construction; and No winders in lieu of a landing.

The landings of the stairway are to have a maximum gradient of 1:50.

Each landing is to be: Not less than 750 mm long; and Provided with a non-slip finish throughout.

The threshold of the doorways is not to incorporate a step from the door sill to the external finished surface level which is greater than 190 mm.


BCA Requirement I

Clause D2.16

The balustrade if required are to comply with: Have a height of not less than 1 m; Not have any openings that would permit the passage of a 125 mm sphere; No horizontal elements between 150 mm and 760 mm above the floor of the balcony that would facilitate climbing where the floor is more than 4 m above the ground surface.

I Openable windows that are 4 m above the ground surface are to be provided with a balustrade with a height of not less than 865 mm above the floor.

Handrails are to be provided to each of the stairways following the inside wall of the stairs that D2'17 is continuous with no obstructions that will break a hand hold. I I Fixed platforms, walkways, sta'rways, ladder ana any going ana r'ser, lana'ng, hanara ,

Cla~se D2.18 bal~strade or otner oarr'er artacheo thereto is to comply w'tn AS 1657 where it 's prov'dea to I I

Clause D2.20

Clause D2.19

All swinging doors in a required exit or forming part of a required exit are to swing in the direction of egress.

access the plant and lift machinery rooms.

All doorways serving as a required exit or forming part of a required exit are to be swinging doors,

Clause D2.21

Clause D2.23

All doors in a required exit, forming part of a required exit or in a path of travel to a required exit are to be provided with lever type door handles that are readily openable without a key from the side of the door that faces the person seeking egress.

The following doors are exempt from the above: The doors to the SOUs; and The door to and the doors within the managers residence

The following sign is to be provided on both sides of the doors accessing the fire-isolated stairways:

"Fire Safety Door Do not obstruct Do not keep open"

The following sign is to be provided on both sides of the doors discharging from the fire-isolated stairways:

"Fire Safety Door - Do not obstrucl'

I The signs are to be 20 mm in height in a coiour contrasting to that of the background,

I Clause E l 3 / Fire hydrant coverage is to be provided to the building in accordance with AS 2419.1 I

N FBI03399 Page 26 of 58


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BCA Clause

Clause E l .4

Clause E1.6

Clause E1.9

Clause E2.2, Table E2.2a

Clause 2, Spec E2.2a




BCA Requirement

Fire hose reels are to be installed to serve the whole building as internal fire hydrants will be required to be installed in this instance to achieve compliance with AS 2419.1 for the fire hydrants.

Fire hose reels are to be installed in accordance with AS 2441.

Fire hose reels are to be located internally within 4 m of an exit.

Portable fire extinguishers are to be installed in accordance with AS 2444.

During the construction of the building not less than one fire extinguisher to suit Class A, B and C fires and electrical fires must be provided at all times on each storey adjacent to each required exit or temporary stairway or exit.

After the building has reached an effective height of 12 m: The required fire hydrant and fire hose reels must be operational in at least every story that is covered by the roof or the floor structure above, except the 2 uppermost storeys; and Any required booster connections must be installed.

Any air handling system which does not form part of a smoke hazard management system that recycles air from one SOU to another SOU or room not within an SOU must:

Be designed and installed to operate as a smoke control system in accordance with ASINZS 1668.1; or . The foilowing-

- incorporate smoke dampers where air handling ducts penetrate any elements separating the SOUs served; and

- Be arranged such that the air-handling system is shut down and the smoke dampers are activated to close automatically by smoke detectors complying with Clause 4.10 of ASINZS 1668.1

The building is to be provided with a smoke detection and alarm system complying with Specification E2.2a.

A smoke detection system complying with Clause 4 of Specification E2.2a of the BCA is to be installed in the building.

A smoke detection system complying with AS 1670.1 is to be installed in the building.

The smoke detection system is to activate a building occupant warning system complying with Clause 3.22 of AS 1670.1.

The smoke detection system is to be connected to a fire station or fire station dispatch centre in accordance with AS 1670.3.


The doors to the SOUs are not required to be provided with illuminated exit signage.

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9.3 Appendix C - BCA Requirements following Application of Concessions


DTS BCA Clause

Table 3, Spec C1'l

Table 3, Spec C1.l

Table 3, Spec C1.l

Table 3' Spec C1.l

Clause Ct.10

BCA Requirement (BCA Assessment - Appendix D)

external Of the building are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90130130.

Internal fire-resisting walls to lift and stair shafts are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -190190 if non-loadbearing.

Internal walls that bound public corridors, public lobbies and the like are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -160160 if non-loadbearing.

Internal walls between or bounding SOUs are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and - I60160 if non-loadbearing.

Internal walls of ventilating, pipe, garbage, and like shafts not used for the discharge of hot products of combustions are to achieve an FRL of not less than 90190190 if loadbearing and -190190 if non-loadbearing,

Other loadbearing internal walls, internal beams, trusses and columns are to achieve an FRL of not less than 901-I-.

Floors within the building are to achieve an FRLof not less than 90190190.

The fire hazard properties of floor materials, fioor coverings, wall and ceiling lining materials are to comply with Specification Cl.1Oa of the BCA.

BCA Requirements following the application of the Concessions

The FRLfor a loadbearing external wall is now only required to be tested from the outside,

The FRL required to be achieved by: internal fire-resisting walis to lift and stair shafts; lnternal walls that bound public corridors, public lobbies and the like; internal walls between or bounding SOUs; and Internal walls of ventilating, pipe, garbage, and like shafts not used for the discharge of hot products of combustion,

Has been reduced to 60160160 for loadbearing walls and - 1-1- for non-loadbearing walls provided the non- loadbearing wali is constructed as follows: . It is lined on each side with a standard grade

plasterboard not less than 13 mm thick or similar non-combustible material; and It extends-

- To the underside of a ceiling lined with standard grade plasterboard not less than 13 mm thick or a material with at least an equivalent level of fire protection; or

- To the underside of a non-combustible roof covering; and

Any insulation installed in the cavity of the wall is non-combustible; and Any construction joint, space or the like between the top of the wall and the floor, ceiiing or roof is smoke sealed with intumescent putty or other suitable material.

The FRL required to be achieved by other loadbearing internal walls has been reduced to not less than 601-I-.

The FRL required to be achieved by floors has been reduced to not less than 60160160.

There is a reduction in requirements for the fire hazard properties of floor materials, fioor coverings, wail and ceiling materials detailed in Specification C l .lOa as a sprinkler system is to be installed in the building.


NFB103399 Page 30 of 58

DTS BCA Clause

Clause C2.6

Clause C3.11

Clause E1.5

Clause 2, Spec E l .5

Clause 7, Spec E l .5

Clause 8, Spec E1.5

BCA Requirement (BCA Assessment - Appendix D)

Vertical separation is required between openings in different stories. A spandrel of non-combustible material that has an FRL of not less than 60160160 or a slab or other horizontal non-combustible construction with an FRL of not less than 60160160.

The doorways to the SOUs and doorways to common areas opening to a public corridor, public lobby or the like are to be protected with self- closing or automatic closing -160130 fire doors.

A sprinkier system is not required to be installed in the building

A sprinkler system is not required to be installed in the building



BCA Requirements following the application of the Concessions

Vertical separation is not required as a sprinkler system is to be installed in the building.

The doorways to the SOUs and doorways to common areas opening to a public corridor, public lobby or the like may now be protected with a solid core door not less than 35 mm thick fitted with a self-closing device.

A sprinkler system is to be installed in accordance with Specification E l .5 of the BCA.

A sprinkier system complying with AS 21 18.4 is to be installed in the building

The sprinkler system is to have at least, a reliable grade 3 water supply.

The sprinkier system is to activate the building occupant warning system complying with Clause 6 of Specification E2.2a of the BCA that was required to be installed in the building under the DTS provisions of the BCA.


9.4 Appendix D - Fire Engineered Alternative Solutions

NFB103399 Page 31 of 58

Issue

1

BCA Requirement

An FRL of not less than 90160160 is required to be achieved by loadbearing external walls and 901-I-that are1.5 m from a fire source feature.

An FRL of not less than - 160160 is required for non- loadbearing parts of external walls 1.5 m from a fire source feature.

The lift motor room is required to be separated from the remainder of the building by construction having an FRL of not less than 12011201120, except from the lift shaft where an FRL of not less than 1201-1- is to be achieved.

Any doorway in this construction is to be protected by a self-closing - H 20130 fire door.

The doorways to the fire- isolated stairways are to be provided with self-closing - I60130 fire doors.

DTS BCA Clause

3, Spec C1.l

Clause C2.12

Clause C3.8

BCA Performance Provision

CPl & CP2

Cpl & CP2

& CP2

Alternative Solution

It is proposed to reduce the FRL of loadbearing external wails of the building to 60160160 and loadbearing external columns to 601-1- that are 1.5 m from a fire source feature with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

it is proposed to reduce the FRL of non-loadbearing parts external walls of the building to -1-1- that are 1.5 m from a fire source feature with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

It is proposed to reduce the FRL of construction separating the lift motor room from the remainder of the building to 60160160 and 601-1- for the construction separating the lift shaft and lift motor room with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

It is proposed to protect any doorway in this construction with a self-closing - 160130 fire door with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

It is proposed to solid core doors not less than 35 mm thick fitted with a self- closing device to the fire isolated with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.


NFB103399 Page 32 of 58

Issue Clause

'lause D1.5

'lause

Clause E1.4

BCA Requirement

exits are to be greater than 45 m apart.

Plant rooms with ladders complying with AS 1657 andlor AS 1735.2 for egress are not to have a floor area that is greater than 100 mz.

Fire hose reels are to be installed to serve the whole building as internal fire hydrants will be required to be installed in this instance for the fire hydrants to achieve compliance with AS 2419.1.

Fire hose reels are to be installed in accordance with AS 2441.

Fire hose reels are to be located internally within 4 m of an exit.

BCA Performance Provision

DP4 & EP2.2

DP2

EP1.l

Alternative Solution

It is proposed to extend the travel distance between alternative exits to 90 m by the provision of smoke walls that divide the corridors into intervals not more than 40 m in length, with travel from any point to an exit not to require travel through not more than 2 consecutive intervals of these corridors to gain direct access to an exit from the storey, and installing a sprinkler system throughout the building.

It is proposed to increase the floor area of the plant room to 200 mz and still use ladders complying with AS 1657 andlor AS 1735.2 to provide egress from the plant room.

It is proposed to provide secure portable fire extinguishers in lieu of fire hose reels throughout the building.


Alternative Solution 1 - Fire Resistance Levels

Brief

It is proposed to reduce the FRL of loadbearing external walls of the building to 60160160 and loadbearing external columns to 601-1- that are 1.5 m from a fire source feature with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

It is proposed to reduce the FRL of non-loadbearing parts external walls of the building to -1-1- that are 1.5 m from a fire source feature with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this reporl.

BCA DTS Provisions and Relevant Performance Requirements

The BCA DTS provision governing the Fire Resistance Level is Table 3, Spec C1.l

A Fire Resistance Level (FRL) of not less than 90160160 is required to be achieved by loadbearing external walls and 901-/-that arel.5 m from a fire source feature.

An FRL of not less than -160160 is required for non-loadbearing parts of external walls 1.5 m from a fire source feature.

The relevant performance requirements are nominated as CP1 and CP2.

Analysis Methodology

The formulation of the alternative solution will be achieved through the following methodology:

A0.5 (b) (i) ''complies with the Performance Requirements"

The proposed alternative solution will be assessed against the performance provisions using BCA section:

A0.9 (b) (ii) "such other Verification Methods as the appropriate authority accepts for determining compliance with the Performance Requirements".

The methodology undertaken for the assessment of fire separation is a qualitative and quantitative approach and considers the following key sub system in accordance with the International Fire Engineering Guidelines:

Sub system C - Fire Spread & Impact & Control

The calculation of radiation on the boundary of the proposed building was analysed using radiant heat limitations set out in the BCA verification CV1.

NFB103399 Page 33 of 58


Acceptance Criteria

The alternative solution is considered to be acceptable if the analysis of the Performance Requirement of the BCA indicates an equal or better approach where the life safety of occupants is not reduced.

The BCA verification method CV1 has been used to determine the acceptance of the external opening within 3 m from the boundary for this building, where the avoidance of the spread of fire between buildings on adjoining allotments is verified where it is calculated that:

a. a building will not cause heat flux in excess of those set out in column 2 of Table CVl at locations within the boundaries of an adjoining property set out in column 1 of Table CVl where another building may be constructed; and

b. when located at the distances from the allotment boundary set out in column 1 of Table CV1, a building is capable of withstanding the heat flux set out in column 2 of Table CVl without ignition.

1 m lrom bounda~ I 40

3 m from bounda~ I 20

The alternate solution design is considered to be acceptable if the comparative analysis indicates an equal or better approach with respect to the BCA DTS building design for fire spread between buildings.

6 m from boundary

However, for fire spread from this building to the adjacent building the radiant heat flux levels are not to exceed the those set out in column 2 at the distance set out in column 1 of Table CV1. Based on calculation methods detailed in section 1.5, should the heat flux level be less than 80 kWlm2 at the boundary, the radiation level I m, 3m and 6m will be satisfied.

10

NFB103399 Page 34 of 58


- Analysis

Intent

According to the Guide to the BCA, the intent of the CP2 is to provide means in which the spread of fire between buildings is avoided. Accordingly building elements must be appropriate to avoid the spread of fire, taking into consideration the matters listed in CP2.

Fire Incidents

The following summary indicates the relative quantity of real fires investigated. 14

8 : to - $ 8 d 600 =

d g 600 .- 8 " LG c

400 376 561 2 4 .- > 200 c 2

0 0 1 & 2 Family Apartments Offices 1 8 2 Family Apartments Omcss Dwellings Dwellings

The above-presented fire occurring data is a collection of United States fire services' statistical data between 1983 to 1991'. Similar trends were observable in Australia when comparing with the US data, therefore, it is assumed that the US data are relevant to Australia. Between 1983 to 1991, there were 1,519,848 fires and 13,036 civilian fatalities in 1 and 2 Family dwellings. However, there were 27,679 fires and 31 civilian fatalities in offices, which is a significant difference. There were fewer deaths in office buildings compared with houses and apartments.

1 National Fire incident Reporting System. Federal Emergency Management Agency. "Fires in Offices", 1983- 1991, USA.

NFB103399 Page 35 of 58


Effect of Sprinklers on Fire Growth

The building is protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system, which is expected to suppress, or at least control, the fire growth. The activation of the automatic fire sprinkler system is also expected to have a cooling effect on the hot smoke.

Sprinkler Reliability

The table below summarises numerous studies of the reliability of fire sprinkler systems.

Powers, R. W.

Richardson, J.K.

2 Marryat. H.W. Fire: A Century of Automatic Spr ndier Proleclon n A ~ s t a a and hew Zea and 1886-1986. ALstra an F:re Protection Association. Melbo~rne. A~stralia. 1988.

Maybee. W.W. "Summary of Fire Protection Progams in the U.S. Department of Energy - Calendar Year 1987." U.S. Department of Energy. Frederick. MD. August 1988. Australian Building Codes Board. 'international Fire Engineering Guidelines'. Edition 2005. March 2005. Australian Buiiding Codes Board, "Fire Safety Engineering Guidelines". Edition 2001. Finucane, M, and Pickney. D. "Reliability of Fire Protection and Detection Systems." United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, University of Edinburgh, Scotland. Powers. R.W. 'SpCndier Experience in hign-Rse Bu'dings (1969-1979).' SFPE Technology Report 79-1. Soc'ety

. of F're Protecton Engineers. Boston. MA. 1979. Milne. W.D. "Automatic Sprinkler Protection Record," Factors in Special Fire Risk Analysis, Chapter 9, pp. 73-89. Linder. K.W. "Field Probability of Fire Detection Systems." Balanced Design Concepts Workshop, NiSTiR 5264, R.W. Bukowski (Ed.). Building and Fire Research Laboratory. National Institute of Standards and Technology,

10 September 1993.

11 Richardson, J.K. "The Reliability of Automatic Sprinkler Systems," Canadian Building Digest, Voi. 238. July 1985.

12 NFPA. "Automatic Sprinkler Performance Tables. 1970 Edition." Fire Journal. July 1970. pp. 35-39. Kook, K.W. "Exterior Fire Propagation in a High-Rise Building," Master's Thesis. Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Worcester. MA, November 1990.

I3

$ 4 Miller, M.J. "Reliability of Fire Protection Systems," Loss Prevention ACEP Technical Manual. 8. 1974. Taylor. K.T. "Ofice Building Fires ... A Case for Automatic Fire Protection." Fire Journal, 84 (1). JanuaryIFebruary 1990, pp. 52-54.



Fire sprinkler system reliability ranges from 81.3% to 99.5%, which is a significant range of performance. It must be noted that the higher reliability of fire sprinklers reported by Marryat2 of 99.5% reflect fire sprinkler systems where inspections, testing and maintenance 'exceeded normal expectations' and is applicable generally to installations in Australia and New Zealand. The lower reliability estimates of 81.3%14 as well as some of the higher values of 87.6%'" appear to reflect significant biases in data in terms of small number of fire incidents and the lack of differentiation between fire sprinklers and other fire suppression systems.

Sprinkler Performance

The NSW Fire Brigades Annual Statistical Report for 200112002 provides data on the reliability of sprinklers in buildings fires, as detailed below.

performance- Extinguished fire

Prevented spread, but did

Based on this data, it is evident that the majority of fires notified to the NSWFB are in the categories where the fire did not spread and are therefore confined to the room of origin. Clearly the presence of sprinklers reduces very substantially the likelihood of fire spread beyond the room of origin. It is noted that virtually all of the fires that spread beyond the room

room oispace'of lire origin

Other

Total

of origin, in both residential and commercial buildings, spread through the building and a small but significant proportion of these spread beyond the building of origin.

8 3

Studies by Mawhinney et aP suggest that the temperatures expected remote from the area of sprinkler operation are below 100%, which is not expected to adversely affect occupants' ability to exit given the relatively short egress distance to outside. This is supported by findings from Building Control Commission and Warrington Fire Research19ased on fire tests involving enclosures up to 3.6 m high with fires shielded from sprinkler discharge. The findings

1 264

16 Mawhinney J.R. and Tamura G.T.. The Effect of Automatic Sprinkler Protection on Smoke Control Systems, ASHWE Transactions, Vol. 100. No. 1. pp. 494-513. 1994.

16 Building Control Commission and Warrington Fire Research, 'Fire Resistant Barriers and Structures', August 2000.

NFB103399 Page 37 of 58

0 1

2

171

7 0

0

136

16 5

4 2837

15 6

0

369

6 4

2

158

5 1

3 222

0 1

57 21

1

257

13

4414


conservatively assumed that the temperatures outside the immediate area of operation of the sprinkler system do not exceed 100% and within the area of operation are below 200% except in the immediate vicinity of the flames.

On this basis, a fire within a building where fire sprinklers operate is unlikely to reach flashover conditions. Therefore, failure of any unprotected building elements is also considered to be unlikely as temperatures are not considered to be severe enough to affect the building's structural capacity where fire sprinklers are able to control or suppress a fire.

Causes of Failure

As discussed earlier, fire sprinklers are expected to successfully control a fire in majority of the cases. Although the risk of failure of fire sprinkler systems is considered to be relatively low, the NFPA has summarised the causes of unsatisfactory fire sprinkler performance as detailed below based on cases reported from 1925 and 1969.

D - inadequate performance by spn'nkler system itself A - Failure lo maintain operation

6% status of System 52%

C - Defects affecting but not lnwidng sprinkler system

16%

B - Failure to assure adequacy of system for complete cowrage

of current hazard 22%

The major causes of unsatisfactory fire sprinkler performance have been reorganised and grouped, as depicted above. Although the principal causes Identified are similar for this US study to those identified by Marryattz, the percentages are not. For example, the water shut off was identified by Marryatt as being 8% only as compared to 35.4% by the NFPA. This is a reflection of the higher standard of maintenance and valve supervision requirement for fire

NFB103399 Page 38 of 58


sprinkler systems in Australia and New Zealand, which tends to result in higher values for fire sprinkler reliability.

Therefore, with better procedures in place to ensure operational status of the system is maintained, in particular when the building is occupied, the reliability of successful fire sprinkler intervention is further enhanced (i.e. the failure rate can be reduced in half or by 52%). If the fire sprinkler system is designed to the correct hazard classification and provides protection to all areas of the building, this failure rate can be reduced by a further 22%.

A review of statistics concerning the causes of fires in one and two family dwellings during 1993194" reveals the following causes of fires:

Cooking materials Appliances Heating Electrical Distribution Other Equipment Incendiary/suspicious Smoking Children Playing Unknown Exposure Other

British Standard PD 7974-3:2003 section 9.4.5 indicates that an automatic fire sprinkler system will reduce the heat flux to 50% of its value. Following this principle, the heat release rate projected from the subject building to the adjacent property is calculated and represented below.

The above table details that the installation of sprinklers with a reduction of 50% of the heat release rate provides a sufficient cause to reduce the distance between the external wall of the building and the boundary to 1.5 m in lieu of 3 m.

On boundary

1 m from boundary

3 m from boundary

6 m from boundary

I 7 Beaver, P. and Britton. M., Research into cost effective fire safety measures for residential buildings. Building

Control Commission. Feb 1999.


80

40

20

10

On boundary

1 m from boundary

3 m from boundary

6 m from boundary

40 20

10

5


The table is graphically represented below. The radiant heat received at the boundary from the subject building with automatic fire sprinklers based on CV1 is approximately 16 kW/m2. The radiant heat received at the adjacent building (4.5 m) is approximately 7 kWIm2. Should the adjacent building be a similar building the subject alternative solution building would receive approximately 10 kWIm2 of radiation. Should the adjacent building be a residential Class l a building where the walls are 900 mm from the boundary, the radiation received (at 2.1 m) is approximately 12 kWIm2.

0 1 2 3 1 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Distance (m)

It is noted that Drysdale states the thermal effect from radiant heat flux at various as tabled below.

A limiting value of 12.5 kWIm2 is considered to be the limiting radiant heat flux to be received at the adjacent building. This radiant heat flux is typical of wood being ignited by pilot ignition after prolonged exposure. Based on the above evaluation all radiant heat levels are below the limiting value of 12.5kW/m2 set by Drysdale. It is important to note that the limiting value is based on exposure for greater than 20 minutes and directly to openings such as windows. Where the radiation is not exposed to openings the risk of fire spread is reduced.

In addition given the use and function of the building, the fuel load characteristics of each compartment are considered to be at least equivalent or less than that of a Class l a occupancy. As such the only limitation that the BCA specifies for a Class l a building is that any openings be set back 900 mm from the boundary line.



According to the Guide to the BCA, the installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system in accordance with AS 2118 is considered to prevent the fire reaching the stage at which 'Ylashover" occurs (i.e. total involvement of a room's contents in a fire), thus reducing the risks to occupants.

According to AS 2118 automatic fire sprinklers provide an important level of protection for the occupants of a building together with protection to the environment by minimizing the effects that a major structural fire could have''.

It is considered likely that due to the use and nature of the balcony that the likely fire source feature maybe a potted plant or seating. Should a fire incident occur and burning has become established the fire is likely to burn itself out without involving other items of combustible material, particularly if the item first ignited is in an isolated position.

Further to the above analysis, the BCA recognises that a sprinkler protected building is sufficient to prevent vertical fire spread and spandrels (a physical means of separation) is not required. Given the BCA acknowledgement of sprinklers with concessions as well as non- requirement of physical barriers and the detailed benefits, the installation of sprinklers provides significant benefits to the building and occupants safety.

Discussion

The above analysis has detailed that the current building design provides sufficient protection between compartment areas and between buildings such that the likely spread of fire between buildings is minimised. The limiting boundary measurement of 3 m has been used. In the event that the adjacent building is to be closer than 3 m, additional protection is to be provided to the openings of the adjacent building as per the DTS requirements or performance requirements of the BCA.

The above analysis sets the benchmark for several other alternative solutions and will be referenced for alternative solutions other than that detailed above.

18 AS 21 18.1-1999 Automatic fire sprinkler systems

NFB103399 Page 41 of 58


CP2

(a) A building must have elements which will,

Application: The building is provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system which

NFB103399 Page 42 of 58


(vi) its proximity to otherproperty; and The alternate soiution with proposed measures are considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire protection as a BCA OTS

. . I and the proposed alternate soiution.

(v) the number of storeys in the buildino: and

alternaive solution. However, any intervention by thdfire brigade is considered to further reduce the likelihood of any lire spread between

No alternate solution proposed.

(vii) any active fire safely systems installed in the building; and

(vlii) the size of any fire compartment; and

lixj fire briaade intervention: and

design.

The building is installed with an automatic fire sprinkler system, smoke detection and building occupant warning system. The automatic lire sprinkler system is above the requirements of the BCA.


Fire briaade intervention has not been considered as Dart of the

Conclusion

(x) other elements they support; and

(xi) the evacuation time.

It has been demonstrated that proposed external wall FRL satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements CPI and CP2.

buildings.


No alternate solution orooosed.



Alternative Solution 2 - Fire Resistance Level Lift Motor Room

Brief

It is proposed to reduce the FRL of construction separating the lift motor room from the remainder of the building to 60160160 and 601-1- for the construction separating the lift shaft and lift motor room with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

It is proposed to protect any doorway in this construction with a self-closing -160130 fire door with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.

This alternative solution only applied to lift motor rooms located at the topmost level of the building.


The BCA DTS provision is Clause C2.12. The lift motor room is required to be separated from the remainder of the building by construction having an FRL of not less than 120/1201120, except from the lift shaft where an FRL of not less than 1201-1- is to be achieved. Any doorway in this construction is to be protected by a self-closing -1120130 fire door.

The relevant performance requirement is nominated as CPI and CP2



A0.5 (b) (i) 'tomplies with the Performance Requirements"




Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control

Acceptance Criteria




Analysis

The above assessment details the significance of an automatic fire sprinkler system within the building and the ability of the sprinkler system to limit fires primarily to the object of fire origin, area of fire origin and, at most, the compartment of fire origin with the ability of the automatic fire sprinkler system to wet the surrounding area and to reduce the hot layer temperature limiting the potential for flashover within the compartment.

The lift motor room is assumed to be located at the top of the building. The remainder of the building has a typical fire resistance level of load bearing elements of 60160160, given the nature of the fire resistance level to the remaining lower supporting levels, a consistent fire resistance level is nominated to be applied throughout the building including the lift motor room.

In addition to the above, the lift motor room and remainder of the building is protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system. It is considered that the fire safety systems and the fire and smoke compartmentation provide sufficient measures to the degree necessary for occupant safety.

Discussion

The above analysis has detailed that the reduction of FRL separation between the lift motor rooms and the additional fire safety systems maintain sufficient protection to the building occupants that the likely spread of fire from the plant room is minimised. It is considered that the concessions provided by the installation of the automatic fire sprinkler system are suitable and do not increase the risk of life safety to the occupants.

CP1 A building must have elements which will, to the degree necessary, maintain structural stability during a fire appropriate to:

(i) the function or use of the building; and

The building is a Single Occupancy Unit class 3 building and no alternate solution is proposed for change in use.

~,

(iii) the potential fire intensify; and

(iv) the lire hazar& and

(vil its ~roximitv to otherproperk and

(viii) the size of any fire compartment; No alternate solution proposed. and

fiil the fire load: and 1 The fire load is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS buildina and - the proposed alternate solution.

The potential fire intensity is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed alternate solution.

The fire hazard is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed alternate solution.

The installed fire safelv svstems includina automatic fire s~rinklers . . . . ..

(vii) any active fire safety systems installed in the building; and

(x) /;re arigadeinle~entlon; an0 I Fire or:gaoe , ' lntervenr , ' on has no1 been consiaerea as part of tne a temal ve so1.t on. However, any inte~enion by tne I re origade is

provides an equivaleni level of safety. -

The building is installed with an automatic fire sprinkler system, smoke detection and building occupant warning system. The automatic fire sorinkler svstem is above the reauirements of the BCA.

cons~dered to furlher reduce the likelihood of anyfire spread within 01 1 fromihe building.

fxl other elements thev suooort: and I No alternate solution orooosed.

(xi) the evacuation lime. I No alternate solution proposed.



CP2

(a) A building must have elements which will, to the degree necessary, avoid the spread of fire- to exits; and

(v) to sole-occupancy units and public corridors; and

Application: CPZ(a)(ii) only applies to a Class 2 or 3 building

or Class 4 part.

(vi) between buildings; and

(vii) in a building

The building is provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system which based on the eval.at:on wi I'm I lhe spread of t re from the companment of f.re or g'n.

The building is provided with an automatic lire sprinkler system which based on the evaluation will limit the soread of fire from the compartment of lire origin.

The alternate solution with proposed measures are considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

The alternate solution with proposed measures are considered to provide at least an equivalent level of lire protection as a BCA DTS desion.

(b) Avoidance of the spread of fire referred to in (a) must be appropriate to.

(i) the function or use of the building; anrl

(ii) the fireload; and


(iv) the fire haran$ and

(v) the number of storeys in the building; and

(vi) its proximity to otherproperty; and


(viii) the size of any fire compariment; and

The buildino is a Class 3 buildina and no alternate solution is orooosed - , . for change h use.

The fire load is considered lo be the same for a BCA DTS buildina and - the proposed alternate solution.

The potential fire intensity is considered to be the same lor a BCA DTS buildina and the orooosed alternate solution. - . . The lire hazard is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed aiternate solution.


The alternate solution with proposed measures are considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

The buildino is installed with an automatic lire sorinkler svstem. smoke detection and building occupant warning system. The auiomatic fire sprinkler system is above the requirements of the BCA.


fx) other elements thev suooort: and I No alternate solution orooosed.

(ix) fire brigadeintervention; and

(xi) the evacuation time. I No alternate solution proposed.

Fire brigade intervention has not been considered as part of the alternative solution. However, any intervention by the fire brigade is considered to further reduce the likelihood of any fire spread between

Conclusion

It has been demonstrated that proposed external wall FRL satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements CP1 and CP2.

NFB103399 Page 46 of 58


Alternative Solution 3 - Fire Isolated Stairway Doors

Brief

It is proposed to install solid core doors not less than 35 mm thick fitted with a self-closing device to the fire isolated stairways with the installation of a sprinkler system and in line with the concessions discussed in Section 4.3 of this report.


The BCA DTS provision is Clause C3.8. The doorways to the fire-isolated stairways are to be provided with self-closing -160130 fire doors.

The relevant performance requirements are nominated as CP1 and CP2



A0.5 (b) (i) 'tomplies with the Performance Requirements"




Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control Sub system E - Occupant Evacuation and Control

Acceptance Criteria


Analysis

The construction of the building means that the fire isolated stairs are separated from the surrounding apartments by a minimum of non-combustible construction.

The provision of a fire door on the fire isolated stairs does not provide a greater level of safety for occupants when the bounding construction of the stair is at a reduced level.

The proposed alternative solution in conjunction with the additional fire safety systems including the installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system is considered to provide the



occupants with an acceptable level of safety with the total bounding construction of the stair being uniform.

Given the fuel load within the building, the separation between the fire isolated stair and the single occupancy unit presents the greatest threat yet is only protected by non-combustible construction, whereas the corridor is considered to be relatively sterile and not contain an equivalent level of fire hazard and fuel loads of the single occupancy units, in addition the provision of a fire door would provide a greater level of safety to the area of least risk.

Given the risk levels as well as the provision of automatic fire sprinklers, the proposed uniform level of protection around the entire fire isolated stair by having non-combustible walls and a solid core door is considered to provide a uniform level of protection which is equivalent to the greatest risk within the building.

Discussion

The above analysis has detailed that the provision of a solid core door to the fire isolated stair and the additional fire safety systems maintain sufficient protection to the building occupants that the likely spread of fire to compromise the occupants is minimised. It is considered that the concessions provided by the installation of the automatic fire sprinkler system are suitable and do not increase the risk of life safety to the occupants.

CP1 A building must have elements which will, to the degree necessary, maintain structural stabiiiqduring a fire appropriate to:

li) the function or use of the buiidina: I The buiidina is a Sinale Occuoancv Unit class 3 buiidina and no . . . , and " I aiternale soj.ion 's i;roposea tor change n .se

( I) the hre load and I The llre loao s cons~dered to be the same tor a BCA DTS b~ d no ana . .


(iv) the fire hazad and

(vi) its proximity to ofher properfy; and


(viii) the size of any fire compartment; and

(ix) fire brigade intervention; and


- the proposed alternate solution.

The potential fire intensity is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS buiiding and the proposed alternate solution.

The tire hazard is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed alternate solution.

The installed fire safety systems including automatic fire sprinklers provides an equivalent level of safety.

The building is installed with an automatic tire sprinkler system, smoke detection and building occupant warning system. The automatic fire sprinkler system is above the requirements of the BCA. No alternate solution proposed.

Fire brigade intervention has not been considered as part of the alternative solution. However, any intervention by the fire brigade is considered to further reduce the likelihood of any tire spread within or from the building.

(x) other elements they support; and I No alternate solution proposed.

(xi) the evacuation lime. No alternate solution proposed.


Application:

Conclusion

It has been demonstrated that proposed external wall FRL satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements CP1 and CP2.



Alternative Solution 4 - Alternative Exits

Brief

It is proposed to extend the travel distance between alternative exits to 90 m by the provision of smoke walls that divide the corridors into intervals not more than 40 m in length, with travel from any point to an exit not to require travel through not more than 2 consecutive intervals of these corridors to gain direct access to an exit from the storey, and installing a sprinkler system throughout the building.


The BCA DTS provision is Clause D l .5. Alternative exits are to be not greater than 45 m apart.

The relevant performance requirements are nominated as DP4 and EP2.2



A0.5 (b) (i) "complies with the Performance Requirements"


A0.9 (c) "Comparison with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provision".


Sub system B - Smoke Development and Spread and Control Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control Sub system E - Occupant Evacuation and Control

Acceptance Criteria


Analysis

The building is provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system. Based on the analysis in alternative solution 1 above, the automatic fire sprinkler system is expected to limit the fire to the object of origin, the area of origin or at most the compartment of fire origin. Given this protection the greatest threat to occupants remote of the fire origin is the smoke from the fire.

The BCA requires the corridors to be a maximum of 45 m apart with two exits no more than 40 m apart.



The alternative solution proposes to maintain this level of protection and travel distance within the corridors. The fire isolated exits are provided with non-combustible construction and solid core doors which provide significant protection from the smoke.

It is proposed to have the 90 m corridor separated into two compartments separated by a smoke door resulting in a corridor of 45 m with the exits no greater than 40 m.

The travel distance to an exit for the occupants is deemed to be equivalent given the provision of the smoke door Drovidina an eauivalent level of ~rotection to the exits within the buildina and providing an equai level 2 safety. In addition the building is provided with an automatk fire sprinkler system which exceeds the requirements of the BCA and provides a greater level of protection to the occupants where the greatest threat to occupants remote of the fire is the smoke.

The corridor is considered to be equivalent to two corridors abutting one another. The BCA permits up to 100 occupants per exit on a single level. Given the nature and use of the building the BCA limit of 100 occupants per exit on a single level is to be maintained.

Discussion

With a reduced number of occupants, equivalent egress provisions, additional fire safety systems including the automatic fire sprinkler system, the alternative solution is deemed equivalent

DP4 Exits must be provided from a buiiding to allow occupants to evacuate safely, with their number, location and dimensions being appropriate to:

(a) the travel distance; and The travel distance to an exit for the occupants is deemed to be eau~valent alven the ~rovision of the smoke door beina eaual to the

(b) the number, mobility and other characteristics of occupants; and

(d) the height of the building; and The building is considered to be a low-rise building with no alternative solut~ons proposed and as such deemed to be eauivalent. I

exits withinihe building and providing an equivalent [&el bf safety.

The number of occupants are to remain within the limits of the exits (i.e. 100 persons per exit).

(c) the function or use of the building; and

The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.


. .

(e) whether the exit is from above or below ground level.

The building is a Class 3 building and no alternate solution is proposed for change in use and as such deemed equivalent.

NSW Fire Briaades Research Reoort - Low cost rental accommodation

(a) in the event of a lire in a b, d ng me cono'tions on any evac.at;on route m.st oe mainta:ned for the perioa of t me occupants lake to evacuate !he part of the bu'la'ng ol the ou Id ng so tnat:

(1) the temperature will not endanger The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent human life: and I level of orotection as a BCA DTS desian.

(ii) the level of visibility will enable the evacuation route to be determined; and

(iii) the level of toxicity will not endanger human life

(iii) the travel distance and other The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent characteristics of the building; and level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

The alternate solution Is considered to provide at least an equivalent level of protection as a BCA DTS design.

The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent level of protection as a BCA DTS design.

(b) The period of time occupants take to evacuate referred to in (a) must be appropriate to:

l iv l the fire load: and I The alternate solution is considered to orovide at least an eauivalent

(i) the number, mobility and other characteristics of the occupants; and

(ii) the function of use of the building; and

. , .. . . . . . . . . -. , -. . - I level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

(vl the ootential fire intensitv: and I The alternate solution Is considered to provide at least an equivalent

The number of occupants are to remain within the limits of the exits 100 Persons Per exit).

The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

> , , . I level of fire protection as a BCA DTS design.

(viiil fire briaade intervention I Fire brigade intewention has not been considered as part of the

(vi) the fire hazard; and

(vil) any active fire systems installed in the building; and

a ternaive sol~t'on. however, any 'nle~ent:on by the fire br:gaae s cons aered lo lunner reaxe tne I nel nood of any fire spread w thin or

The alternate solution is considered to provide at least an equivalent level of fire orotection as a BCA DTS desian.

The building is installed with an automatlc tire sprinkler system, smoke detection and building occupant warning system. The automatic fire sprinkler system is above the requirements of the BCA.

I from the building.

Conclusion It has been demonstrated that proposed floor area satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements DP4 and EP2.2.

NFB103399 Page 52 of 58

~- -~~ ~~- -~ - - ~~~~ ~p


Alternative Solution 5 - Plant Room area

Brief

It is proposed to increase the floor area of the plant room to 200 m2 in lieu of 100 m2 and still use ladders complying with AS 1657 andlor AS 1735.2 to provide egress from the plant room.


The BCA DTS provision governing the Clause D1.16. Plant rooms with ladders complying with AS 1657 andlor AS 1735.2 for egress are not to have a floor area that is greater than 100 m2.

The relevant performance requirement is nominated as DP2







Sub system A- Fire Initiation, Development and Control Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control Sub system E - Occupant Evacuation and Control

Acceptance Criteria


Analysis

The nature of a Plant Room is such that for the majority of the time, occupant numbers are expected to be nil. The only time occupants are expected to enter these rooms is during inspections and maintenance carried out by qualified personnel. Again, even at this time, numbers are expected to be minimal.

It is expected that the occupants entering the plant room will be authorised staff or professional maintenance staff carrying out duties such as inspection and maintenance of equipment and systems operations. The staff in the building and general public that may be in the building are not expected to access the plant room. Therefore, it is assumed those in the plant room will be able-bodied and familiar with their surroundings.



Alternative Solution 5 - Plant Room area

Brief

It is proposed to increase the floor area of the plant room to 200 m2 in lieu of 100 m* and still use ladders complying with AS 1657 andlor AS 1735.2 to provide egress from the plant room.


The BCA DTS provision governing the Clause D1.16. Plant rooms with ladders complying with AS 1657 and/or AS 1735.2 for egress are not to have a floor area that is greater than I00 m2.

The relevant performance requirement is nominated as DP2







Sub system A- Fire Initiation, Development and Control Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control Sub system E - Occupant Evacuation and Control

Acceptance Criteria


Analysis

The nature of a Plant Room is such that for the majority of the time, occupant numbers are expected to be nil. The only time occupants are expected to enter these rooms Is during inspections and maintenance carried out by qualified personnel. Again, even at this time, numbers are expected to be minimal.

It is expected that the occupants entering the plant room will be authorised staff or professional maintenance staff carrying out duties such as inspection and maintenance of equipment and systems operations. The staff in the building and general public that may be in the building are not expected to access the plant room. Therefore, it is assumed those in the plant room will be able-bodied and familiar with their surroundings.



Discussion

The above analysis has detailed that the increase of plant area and the additional fire safety systems provides sufficient protection to the building occupants that the likely spread of fire from the plant room is minimised. It is considered that the concessions provided by the installation of the automatic fire sprinkler system are suitable and do not increase the risk of life safety to the occupants.

DP2 So that oeoole can move salelv to and within a buildina. it must have:

(a) walking Surfaces with Safe gradients; and

(b) any doors installed to avoid the risk of occuoants:

(c) any stairways and ramps with: The alternate solution is considered lo be at leas1 equivalent lo a BCA DTS desion.

The alternate solution is considered to be al least equivalent to a BCA DTS design.

The alternate solution is considered lo be at least equivalent to a BCA DTS design. . . . ..

(i) having their egress impeded; or

(ii) being trapped in the building: and

The alternate solution is considered to be at least equivalent to a BCA DTS design.

The alternate solution is considered to be at least equivalent to a BCA DTS desion.

(i) slip-resistant walking surfaces on-

(A) ramps; and

(6) stairway treads on or near the edge of the nosing: and


(ii) suitable handrails where necessary to assist and provide stability to people using the stairway or ramp; and

(iii) suitable landings to avoid undue fatigue; and

door does not create a" obstruction; and

The alternate solution is considered to be al least equivalent to a BCA DTSdesign.


(iv) landings where a door opens from or onto the stairway or ramp so that the

(v) in the case of a stairway, suitable safe The alternate solution is considered to be at least equivalent to a BCA passage in relation to the nature, DTSdesign. volume and freauencv of likelv usage.

The alternate solution is considered to be at least equivalent to a BCA DTSdesign.

Conclusion

It has been demonstrated that proposed floor area satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements DP2.



Alternative Solution 6 - Fire Hose Reels

Brief

It is proposed to provide secure portable fire extinguishers in lieu of fire hose reels throughout the building.


The BCA DTS provision is E l .4 Fire hose reels.

The relevant performance requirement is nominated as EP1 .l.





A0.9 (c) 'Comparison with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provision".


Sub system A - Fire Initiation, Development and Control Sub system C - Fire Spread and Impact and Control Sub system E - Occupant Evacuation and Control

Acceptance Criteria

The alternative solution is considered to be acceptable if the comparative analysis of the Performance Requirement of the BCA indicates an equal or better approach where the life safety of occupants is not reduced.

Analysis

In accordance with the Guide to the BCA, the intent of fire hose reels is to enable, where appropriate, a building's occupants to undertake initial attack on a fire.

It is not proposed to install fire hose reels within the building. It is proposed that secured portable fire extinguishers be installed in lieu of the fire hose reels.

It is considered that the installation of the fire hose reels is not appropriate as they have the potential to be used remote from their location resulting in the hose being an obstruction to evacuating occupants or breaching the single occupancy unit's compartment.

NFB103399 Page 56 of 58


Hose reels are designed to fight Class A fires only. Class A fires include Paper, Textiles, Wood, most Plastics and Rubber. The application of water on to a Class B flammable liquid or Class E electrical fire is highly dangerous.

For the fire hose reels to be used safely and effectively occupants must be fully trained firstly in the use of the hose reel and also have the ability to recognise a Class A fire. The effective training of occupants is compromised by the highly transient nature of the occupants. Guardian or caretaker staff that receive little or no training will not be equipped to safely attack a fire even in its insipient stages.

A better, more risk-based approach is the use of locationlrisk specific portable extinguishers. This limits the chances of the wrong extinguishing medium being used and also prevents any occupant attempting to attack a fire that is too large and that is better left for the sprinklers or fire service intervention.

In addition occupants are likely to travel through smoke zones and into the single occupancy unit with the fire hose reel which will compromise the intent of the smoke compartment and result in a breach of the compartmentation.

There are several fire safety systems installed within the building including a smoke detection system as well as an automatic fire sprinkler system which are expected to alert occupants to a fire as well as mitigate the growth and spread of fire respectively.

The fire engineered solution for these premises is based upon the protection of the occupants through the use of smoke compartments, horizontal evacuation and a sprinkler system. Occupants are expected to concentrate on evacuation and not attacking fires.

Dragging hose reels across the floor to attack a fire is likely to hamper occupant evacuation. The discarded hose reel would cause trip hazards and compromising occupant safety.

Hose reels taken through smoke doors could seriously compromise the integrity of the designed smoke and fire compartments. The same compartments that are included to safe guard the occupants whilst evacuating.

Hose reels are designed and for use as a first aid firefighting tool for the building staff occupants. Internal hose reels are not designed for use by the attending fire service during firefighting operations.

The Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authority Council's Urban Operations Group, a group representative of the views of all of the Australian fire services, take the position that internal hose reels should not be used by the attending fire service personnel.

If the hose reels are not used by the professional firefighters and they are not safely used by the untrained and unaware occupants, they become an unsafe and unnecessary expense.

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Discussion

Based on the qualitative assessment, the use of portable fire extinguishers in lieu of the fire hose reel should not adversely effect the fire safety or intervention means by occupants in the event of a fire. The installation of portable fire within the building is 'Yo the degree necessary to allow occupants to safely undertake initial attack on a fire."

EPI .I A fire hose reel system must be installed to the degree necessary to allow occupants to safely undertake initial attack on a fire appropriate to:

(i) the size of any fire compartment; and

(ii) the function or use of the building and

(ii:) any active fire safety systems installed in the building; and

Conclusion

no alternate solution is proposed for change in use.

The tire load is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed alternative solution.

The alternat:ve sol~tion proposes automatic fire sprinklers whicn :s above the BCA DTS prov:sions.

(iv) the fire hazard; and

It has been demonstrated that proposed installation of portable fire extinguishers satisfies the BCA Performance Requirements EPl .I.

The fire hazard is considered to be the same for a BCA DTS building and the proposed alternative solution.

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Documents

9. Appendices - Parliament of NSW · Spec C2.5 Clause C2.6 ~- Clause C2.10 Clause 0.11 Clause C2.12 Clause C2.13 BCA Requirement The roof is not required to achieve an FRL. Internal