Traditionally buildings are designed to comply with standard fire codes. Even today this can be the best way to deal with a simple building.
For a larger, more complex building the standard codes will usually severely restrict the architects design freedom.
It may even result in a standard of safety that is lower than would be achieved using a fire engineering approach
Where standard fire code guidance works using a ‘one size fits all’ solution, fire engineering takes account of factors such as human
behaviour and the geometry of the specific building to provide a solution tailored to that project.
Many of the projects we have worked on over the last 21 years could not have been built to the project team’s vision without the use of fire engineering. Our Clients know that the work we carry out will give them a building that is both safe and designed to maximise efficiency and flexibility for use.
We are an independent consultancy and our experience and reputation means that the Approving Authorities know that they can rely on our expertise. Our tireless dedication to providing our Clients with the best possible solutions for their building has made us a leader in our field. Our technical work is the foundation to all of this.
Buildings must allow people to move freely at all times and evacuate rapidly in an emergency. Using simulation to optimize the flow of people can result in an enhanced environment and more effective fire safety design in busy and large locations like Office Buildings, Commercial Buildings, Apartments, Shopping Malls, Stadium, Auditoriums, Airports and Stations etc.
We have an immense experience in computer evacuation modelling and has utilized this skill to evaluate the movements that would be otherwise impossible to calculate. By offering a 2D / 3D output, we demonstrate how the built environment works when a high volume of people are present and provide real-time visualisations. By viewing how the geometry will function, we can predict potential issues and work out design solutions to avoid them, for the benefit of our client.
We use evacuation modelling to test and validate building configurations as well as to justify that a design solution is fit for purpose as per the NBC, NFPA and local Fire Authority guidlines. Our team uses the leading simulation software to predict the movement under normal and emergency conditions.
We bring value in reducing time by trialling building configurations without engaging the entire team to commit to design. We evaluate alternative options, reviewing the implications of removing a stair from a building or the effects of a fire scenario on the escape /routes in remote locations.
Evacuation modelling is a small but significant part of our pedestrian modelling expertise. All buildings require safe and efficient evacuation, however, computer modelling allows for much more ergonomic design at earlier stages of a project. Some of the benefits include:
Our evacuation modelling can be completed in accordance with any national or international standard, for example NFPA and NBC and local Fire norms.