Introduction
Fire engineering is a practice that provides a framework for developing rational methodology for the design of buildings based upon the application of scientific and engineering principles to achieve life safety and property protection in the event of fire.
The intention of this course is to discuss the proposition, set fire engineering in its historical context, provide examples of the use of fire engineering and demonstrate the relevance of fire engineering as a means of achieveing compliance with the building regulations.
Course Content
• BS 7974 - Introduction, scope, application
BS 7974:2001 Application of fire engineering principles to the design of buildings is the published Code of Practice giving guidance on the practical application of the practice of fire engineering and, as such, provides the designer with guidance as to a disciplined approach to the use of fire engineering in fire safety design.
The intention of the presentation is to introduce the BS 7974 and its eight sub systems. The presentation will describe the way in which the standard provides a framework for producing a structured approach to assessment and design of fire safety in buildings using the philosophy of fire engineering.
• PD-0, Design and framework - scope, background, design approach
This sub system provides greater detail on the structured approach and the main factors involved in a fire engineering study. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the use of fire engineering in building design.
The intention of the presentation is to outline and define terminology, identify ‘jargon’ terms and discuss common misconceptions. The presentation should provide clarity and comprehension of the basic fire safety design process that employs Fire Engineering skills.
• The Qualitative Design Review (QDR) - assessment against criteria relevant to structural engineers
The first stage in any engineering design is to establish the basic parameters of the project. This includes a review of the scheme, identification of any overriding constraints and definition of the design objectives. Key information is gathered to enable detailed evaluation of the designed solution. The QDR process is the means to achieve these elements in the application of fire engineering. It is the bases of all fire engineering design and, as such, is given the appropriate assessment and analysis.
The presentation will discuss the process, consider potential advantages and disadvantages and provide sufficient understanding to allow confidence in attendance and involvement with the process.
• Quantitative analysis - reporting and presentation
Having established design and performance and acceptance criteria, scientific analysis and assessment is required to detail actual design; this proposed design then being assessed against the establish criteria. BS 7974 details six sub systems that provide guidance in the approach and achievement of acceptable design.
Most buildings designed in accordance with the provisions of BS 7974 will be subject to review and approval. It is therefore essential that the findings of the fire engineering study are presented in a form that can be readily understood and thoroughly checked by a third party.
This presentation discusses the process of quantitative analysis and discusses the composition and contents of the report.
Speaker/s
• ROB ELLINGHAM, senior fire engineer. Having started life as an Electronics Technician with Philips UK, Rob spent a few years as a Surveyor and Specifier in the Access Control and CCTV industry before joining the London Fire Brigade (LFB). After serving 6 years as an operational fire fighter Rob transferred into the LFB’s Statutory Fire Safety Division where he gained qualifications through the Fire Service College at Moreton ion Marsh, Gloucestershire and obtained a wealth of experience working as a Fire Safety Officer in West London.
In 2002 Rob was promoted into the LFB’s Fire Engineering Group where he worked until October of 2007 representing the LFB in matters across London that related to the application of Fire Engineering techniques to provide solutions to all manner of building premise. Rob has also represented the Brigade at BSI committees and BRE workshops.
Rob graduated with a first class honours degree in Fire Engineering from the University of Central Lancashire in 2007 and is an Associate Trainer for the Fire Protection Association.
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