Fire from First Principles

The first chapter provides a brief introduction to the theory of fire safety and introduces the technical terms which the architect will come across from manufacturers and authorities. The main part of the book consists of five chapters examining the five tactics available to the architect to achieve safety: prevention, communications, escape, containment and extinguishment. These are considered as design parameters and are relevant throughout the design process. Consideration of these tactics will ensure that the building not only complies with the legislation, but more importantly, offers a reasonable level of safety.The last chapter summarizes the more detailed information available to the design team and outlines the basic elements of fire safety legislation in the UK. The key bodies and additional sources of advice are also listed, along with glossaries of relevant technical terms.