Vertical vs Horizontal fire travel in a basement: A study of two types of fire spreading behaviour in the basement.
The behaviour of fire in basements can vary depending on various factors such as ventilation, fuel sources, and the layout of the space. Generally, vertical travel of fire in basements can occur through stairwells, shafts, or open areas, while horizontal travel may happen through interconnected rooms or corridors. Vertical travel may be more rapid due to the stack effect, where hot air rises and draws cooler air from lower levels, aiding fire spread. Horizontal travel may be influenced by the layout and barriers within the basement. Both vertical and horizontal travel paths should be considered in fire safety planning and mitigation strategies.
How to tackle vertical fire travel in basement ?
To tackle vertical fire travel in a basement, consider the following measures:
1. Fire-rated barriers: Install fire-rated barriers such as walls and doors to compartmentalize the basement into smaller areas, limiting the spread of fire vertically.
2. Fireproof stairwells: Ensure that stairwells leading from the basement are constructed with fire-resistant materials and equipped with fire doors to prevent the upward spread of flames.
3. Smoke management systems: Implement smoke management systems such as smoke curtains or smoke ventilation systems to control the movement of smoke and heat vertically in the event of a fire.
4. Fire suppression systems: Install fire suppression systems such as sprinklers in the basement area to suppress the fire and prevent its vertical progression.
5. Regular inspections and maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of fire protection systems and ensure that they are well-maintained to effectively tackle vertical fire travel.
6. Emergency egress: Ensure that there are clear and accessible emergency egress routes from the basement area to allow occupants to evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
7. Education and training: Educate occupants about fire safety procedures and conduct training drills to ensure that they are prepared to respond appropriately in the event of a fire emergency in the basement.
By implementing these measures, you can effectively tackle vertical fire travel in a basement and enhance the overall fire safety of the building.
Stopping horizontal fire travel in basement?
To stop horizontal fire travel in a basement, consider the following strategies:
1. Fire-rated walls and doors: Install fire-rated walls and doors to compartmentalize the basement into smaller areas, limiting the lateral spread of fire.
2. Sealing penetrations: Seal any penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings with fire-resistant materials to prevent the passage of flames and smoke between different areas of the basement.
3. Firestops: Install firestops at penetrations such as pipes, cables, and ducts to prevent the horizontal spread of fire and smoke along these pathways.
4. Sprinkler systems: Install sprinkler systems throughout the basement area to quickly suppress any fires that do occur and prevent their lateral spread.
5. Proper storage: Store flammable materials in designated areas with proper ventilation and separation from other materials to minimize the risk of fire spread.
6. Regular maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of fire protection systems and structural elements to ensure they are in good working condition and can effectively prevent the horizontal spread of fire.
7. Emergency exits: Ensure that there are clear and accessible emergency exits spaced throughout the basement area to allow occupants to evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
By implementing these measures, you can effectively stop horizontal fire travel in a basement and improve overall fire safety in the building.
In the next blog we will discuss about structural elements in the basements and their fire resistance rating as per the OBC. Stay tuned…..
Thank you,
Amandeep Pathak
Permit Canada