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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