Building Structures

Question 1

Building Structures:

Role of ACTF&R in new buildings

Answer 1

To legislate and comment on plans or extensions to building greater than 500m2 of class 2-9. Comment on alternate solutions.

Question 2

Building Structures:

Role of ACTF&R in existing buildings

Answer 2

Has the right of entry to buildings to inspect fire appliances (extinguishers, hose reels, alarm and sprinklers systems) under Emergencies Act 2004. Also to ensure egress is not obstructed.

Question 3

Building Structures:

What is fire resistance level (FRL)

Answer 3

A measure of fire resistance of a building element or material.
Refers to:
Structural adequacy
Structural integrity
Insulation
Seen in minutes as 90/60/60 In order

Question 4

Building Structures:

Considerations to roofs

Answer 4

Roofs are often poorly ventilated and are very vulnerable to a rapid lateral spread of fire.
Can collapse when compromised.
Especially with added weight on top such as water heaters.

Question 5

Building Structures:

Signs of structural collapse

Answer 5

Materials falling from the walls (eg. Spalling).
Distortion of the walls (eg. Bulging).
Cracks in the walls, on observed widening of cracks can mean imminent collapse.
Displacement of the structure members (eg. beams or columns).
Note: Remember if in doubt get out!

Question 6

Building Structures:

Construction features to reduce spread

Answer 6

Fire walls / compartmentation
Protection of openings (minimum distances, fire shutters / doors, drencher systems).
Construction materials used.
Protective shafts.
Self-closing smoke and fire doors.

Question 7

Building Structures:

Some additional safety systems in buildings over 25m

Answer 7

Sprinkler systems
Stair pressurisation
Zone smoke control systems

Question 8

Building Structures:

Some additional safety systems in buildings over 50m

Answer 8

Fire control rooms
Extra water supply provisions to overcome head pressure such as:
Water storage tanks
Pumps in series