Question

Which of the ten general principles of fire protection is absolutely most important and why?

Answer 1

Basic Principles of fire ptotection:

1. Fire Avoidance: Reducing the possibility of accidental ignition of construction materials, as well as fittings and fixtures. This implies, keeping separate heat sources and materials which might ignite readily through proper planning.

2. Fire Detection: Principles of Mechanical Fire Detection makes use of manual and automatic (electric/ electronic) methods of informing the occupants in charge that a fire has occurred in a given location. Fire alarm systems must be accessible in all zones especially in fire-prone areas.

3. Fire Growth Restriction: Principles Aimed at ensuring that the growing fire is extinguished immediately and at providing adequate time for firemen to arrive, control the fire and evacuate the occupants.

4. Fire Containment:

Assumes that measures to control a growing fire may not be successful, hence its maximum size needs to be restricted both to reduce the risk and to allow effective firefighting.

5. Fire Control:

Provides access to a building, especially in high rise buildings, for fire brigades. Is fully-equipped with firefighting equipment, service elevator, stair and lobby. Provides a sufficiently secure operating base and a rest area in between firefighting operations.

6. Smoke Control:

Measures which can assist to some extent occupants in the fire zone but are particularly needed for others in adjacent areas or compartments.

7. Escape Provisions:

Cover a range of passive or active systems which permit the occupants to move or be moved to a place of safety within or to the outside of a building.