1.2 Compartmentation
Compartmentation is the key principle to ensure that there are physical ( or “ passive ”) barriers in place to restrict the movement of fire and smoke within a building . The main objective of compartmentation is to contain a fire within a specific section of a building , limiting the passage of flames and smoke . This then allows more time for occupants to safely evacuate a building and to protect valuable assets . Architects , planners , engineers , and building owners all play a role in ensuring effective and well-designed compartmentation . As a criterion , the fire rating of the firestop system in the fire rated assembly should be greater than or equal to the fire rating of the compartment itself .
Fig . 2 : Horizontal compartments along the height of the building
Fig . 3 : Vertical compartments dividing the floor plan into sections
Compartments help stop the spread of fire , limit the fuel supply and cut off the supply of oxygen . Therefore , the three main components of a fire : heat , fuel , and oxygen . Compartments also protect escape routes , such as corridors and stairs , allowing more time for occupants to safely evacuate the building .
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