Fire protection should be part of initial design

Planning and designing a new building is a complex task and those involved are responsible for developing safe working and living environments for the future tenants of the building.

According to leading fire protection specialist Wormald, one element of the planning stage which needs careful consideration is the building's fire protection solution, which must be designed in accordance with the Building Act 2004 and the New Zealand Building Code.

Consulting a fire engineer or fire specialist in the early stages of design will ensure all necessary considerations are addressed and an effective and tailored fire protection solution is designed for a particular building.

However, according to Wormald, many contractors don't realise the importance of involving the fire specialist at the design stage.

"Being contacted after the initial design and plans are finalised makes it difficult to plan a customised fire protection solution," says Martin Robertson, fire sprinkler design manager with Wormald.

"Engaging with the fire specialist at an early stage can add real value in identifying what is required, both to suit the particular building and to meet regulations."

In new building design, fire safety considerations include, how particular building materials will respond to fire, how smoke and fire will spread in the event of a fire, the number of emergency exits required, the type of fire protection systems required, which building materials should be used in construction to slow fire growth, and the location of fire alarm control panels and sprinkler control valves.

Although investing in fire safety solutions can be expensive, it is a wise investment to help to minimise the risk of fire and to protect life and property. Wormald's Martin Robertson says that simply choosing the minimum fire protection equipment to meet regulations may not be enough.

"To be adequately prepared, you need to forward plan and consider the loss which could be caused if a fire was to occur. There are many building design advantages when installing fire protection systems including reduced egress requirements, increased fire compartment sizes, less fire walls and greater use of materials with high flame spread, such as timber paneling. Consulting your fire protection specialist will help achieve a customised fire protection solution."

As well as regulation, when deciding on the most suitable fire protection solutions, considerations include size and type of building, materials being handled on the premises and what the building will be used for, such as offices or materials storage.

This article was provided by Wormald, specialists in fire protection.

Wormald provides a range of specialist fire protection solutions, special hazards, foam suppression systems, water spray and mist systems, pre-action and deluge Systems. Wormald will review building plans in order to help identify the most suitable fire protection solution.

For further information about Wormald's wide range of products and services:
Call: 08004WORMALD
Visit: www.wormald.co.nz