Shafts are used for a variety of reasons, such as for elevators, pipes, mechanical equipment, and even stairs. Expansion or seismic joints must be listed showing that it is designed to prevent the penetration of fire. Pipes, cables, conduits, and similar items must run vertically through the building to allow utilities to reach all areas of the building. Similarly, vertical openings created by expansion or seismic joints are necessary for the structural integrity of a building. Any type of vertical openings created by pipe penetrations must be protected with a listed firestop system or device which must also limit the transfer of smoke. Pipe Penetrations and Expansion or Seismic Joints To limit the spread of fire, smoke, and its effects one of the base requirements of the Life Safety Code is that every floor that separates stories in a building must be constructed as smoke barriers. However, some openings in these smoke barriers are necessary for the functionality of the building while others are for convenience or aesthetics. These openings can provide a pathway for fire and smoke to travel vertically through the building. To minimize the spread of fire and smoke vertically throughout the building, openings in these separations are limited to those specifically identified in the Life Safety Code. Ultimately, they allow the effects of fire to impact occupants on other floors who would otherwise be protected if it weren’t for these openings. In addition to limiting the types of openings, the vertical openings must be protected to minimize the spread of the effects of fire. One of the ways this is done is through building compartmentation. The Life Safety Code, NFPA 101, aims to protect the life safety occupants by minimizing their exposure to fire, smoke, and its effects.
0 kommentar(er)
