Example of Assignmen T

fire engineering brief
Building Fire Safety and Compliance
Page 1 of 23
Contents
1
2
Contents......................................................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1
Background ............................................................................................................................. 3
2.2
Summary of issues.................................................................................................................. 3
2.3
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................ 3
3
Scope of project ............................................................................................................................ 4
3.1
General.................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2
Methodologies ......................................................................................................................... 4
3.3
Purpose ................................................................................................................................... 4
3.4
Scope and basis...................................................................................................................... 4
3.5
Limitations ............................................................................................................................... 5
3.6
Assumptions............................................................................................................................ 5
4
Relevant stakeholders .................................................................................................................. 6
5
Building characteristics ............................................................................................................... 6
6
Site and floor plan (1:1000) .......................................................................................................... 7
7
Occupant characteristics ............................................................................................................. 8
8
General Objectives........................................................................................................................ 9
8.1
Building regulatory objectives ................................................................................................. 9
8.2
Other regulatory/non regulatory objectives ........................................................................... 11
9
Hazards ........................................................................................................................................ 11
10
Preventative and protective measures ................................................................................. 12
11
Trial designs for evaluation ................................................................................................... 13
11.2 Management and Use ........................................................................................................... 13
11.3 Commissioning and testing ................................................................................................... 13
12
Acceptance criteria and related matters............................................................................... 13
12.1 Qualitative Assessments ....................................................................................................... 13
12.2 Quantitative Assessments..................................................................................................... 13
12.3 Safety Factor ......................................................................................................................... 14
12.4 Approaches ........................................................................................................................... 14
12.5 Methods of analysis, sensitivity, redundancy ........................................................................ 14
12.6 Fire scenarios, design fires and modelling............................................................................ 14
13
Alternative Solution 1 (Excessive compartment size) ........................................................ 15
13.1 Relevant information ............................................................................................................. 15
13.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 15
14
Alternative Solution 2 (Excessive distance between alternative exits)............................. 16
14.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 16
15
Alternative Solution 3 (Inadequate aggregate exit width)................................................... 17
15.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 17
16
Alternative Solution 4 (Operation of latch to roller shutters) ............................................. 18
16.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 18
17
Alternative Solution 5 (Fire shielding to external fire hydrants) ...................................... 19
17.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 19
18
Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates)................................ 20
18.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 20
19
Alternative Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some exits) ..................................................... 22
19.2 Assessment........................................................................................................................... 22
Page 2 of 23
Introduction
2.1
Background
2.1.1
This fire engineering report has been prepared to demonstrates that the proposed single
level shopping centre at Lot 158 Western Suburbs Rd, Wollongong will comply with the
relevant performance requirements in the Building Code of Australia - BCA2011 even though
the building will not comply with certain deemed to satisfy (DTS) provisions in BCA2015.
2.1.2
The proposed building will accommodate two majors (Major 1 and Major 2), a mini major, a
number of speciality shops, a food court and small kiosks.
2.1.3
The building has a floor area of more than 19 000 m, is served by two public roads, and has
multiple access and egress points around the perimeter of the building. The proposed
construction comprises a reinforced concrete ground floor slab, a steel portal frame
(loadbearing columns incorporated into the external wall, loadbearing internal columns, roof
beams and bracing), lightweight metal cladding to the external walls and roof, and glazed
infill panels as required. None of the proposed building elements will achieve a fire resistance
level.
2.1.4
The building will be served by a sprinkler system complying with AS 2118.1-1999, external
fire hydrants protected by internal wall wetting drenchers, an automatic fire detection and
alarm system complying with Specification E2.2a, fire hose reels, dedicated smoke exhaust
to the two majors, the mini major, the mall areas (and the food court, portable fire
extinguishers complying with AS 2444-2001, and emergency lighting and exit signs
complying with AS2293.1-2003.
2.1.5
The Fire Engineering Report in Sections 13 to 18 has been developed by a practising

mechanical engineer from Fire One Pty Ltd Fire One Pty Ltd using the Fire Engineering
Brief contained in Sections 3 to 12.
2.2
Summary of issues
2.2.1
The building will not comply with the following DTS provisions in BCA2011:
(a)
Excessive compartment size (C2.2, Table C2.2)
(b)
Excessive distance between some alternative exits (D1.4)
(c)
Inadequate aggregate exit width for building (D1.6)
(d)
Operation of latch to roller shutters and to most tenancies (D2.21)
(e)
Fire shielding to external fire hydrants will not comply (E1.3)
(f)
Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates will not comply (E2.2, Table E2.2b)
(g)
Excessive travel to some exits (D1.4)
2.3
Executive Summary
2.3.1
The Fire Engineering Report in Sections 13 to 18 demonstrate the following:

(a)
Alternative Solution 1 (Excessive compartment size):

(i)
The building is equivalent to a large isolated building and is considered to

satisfy CP1, CP2 and CP9
(ii)
The egress from the building is considered to satisfy DP4 and DP5, to the
degree necessary, for the reasons as outlined commencing on page 22 in
Alternative Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some exits)
(iii)
The smoke hazard management system serving the building is considered to

satisfy EP2.2 and CP9, to the degree necessary, for the reasons as outlined
commencing on page 20 in Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced
exhaust rates).
Page 3 of 23
(b)
Alternative Solution 2 (Excessive distance between alternative exits):

(i)
(c)
Alternative Solution 3 (Inadequate aggregate exit width):

(i)
(d)
The proposal to use roller shutters as part of the exit system satisfies DP2 to
the degree necessary.
Alternative Solution 5 (Fire shielding to external fire hydrants):

(i)
(f)
The proposal to provide 25.5 m of aggregate exit width in lieu of the 34 m

required by D1.6 satisfies DP4, DP6 and EP2.2 to the degree necessary.
Alternative Solution 3 (Operation of roller shutters):

(i)
(e)
The proposal to allow a distance between some alternative exits of up to

90 metres in lieu of the 60 m required by D1.4 satisfies DP4, CP9 and EP2.2 to
the degree necessary.
Performance requirements EP1.3 and CP9 are satisfied to the degree

necessary, subject to the hydrants system complying with E1.3 and AS 2418
except as modified by the requirements in 17.2.3.
Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates):

(i)
Performance requirements EP2.2, CP9 and DP4 are satisfied to the degree
necessary, subject to all areas having a floor area greater than 500 m
being provided with a dedicated smoke exhaust system with the exhaust
rates as shown in Table 7.
Scope of project
3.1
General
3.1.1
A single level shopping centre is proposed to be constructed on Lot 168 Western Suburbs
Rd, Newcastle. The proposed building will not comply with the deemed to satisfy (DTS)
provisions in the Building Code of Australia (BCA2015) listed in 3.4.2 below.
3.2
Methodologies
3.2.1
The Fire Engineering Report commencing in Section 13 below has been developed using
both qualitative and quantitative analysis as recognised by A0.9 and A0.6 of BCA2014, and
in accordance with this Fire Engineering Brief.
3.3
Purpose
3.3.1
The purpose of this Fire Engineering Brief is to document the process to facilitate discussion
with the relevant stakeholders so that the Fire Engineering Brief and this fire engineering
report can be finalised.
3.4
Scope and basis
3.4.1
The Alternative Solution in this fire engineering report has been prepared to address
compliance with the performance requirements in the BCA2014. The report has been
prepared using the following documentation:
(a)
The Building Code of Australia 2015 (BCA)
(b)
The International Fire Engineering Policy 2001, (IFEG)
(e)
Minutes of fire engineering brief meetings on 1 July, 1 August, and 1 September 15.
Page 4 of 23
3.4.2
The non-compliances with the DTS provisions are summarised as follows:

(a)
Excessive compartment size (C2.2, Table C2.2)
(b)
Excessive travel to some exits (D1.4)
(c)
Excessive distance between some alternative exits (D1.4)
(d)
Inadequate aggregate exit width for building (D1.7)
(e)
Operation of roller shutters and to most tenancies (D2.21)
(f)
Fire shielding to external fire hydrants will not comply (E1.3)
(g)
Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates will not comply (E2.2, Table E2.2b).
3.5
Limitations
3.5.1
This report is limited to the development of an alternative solution addressing noncompliances with the DTS provisions identified in 3.1 above, and does not address
compliance with, or the suitability of, the following:
(a)
Other DTS provisions in the BCA, or Property protection
(b)
Any structural elements or geotechnical matters relating to the building
(c)
Occupational, Health and Safety matters
(d)
Fire services (Section D of BCA2015) design or operation
(e)
Mechanical, electrical, security or lift systems
(f)
The Disability Discrimination Act or Part D3 of the BCA
(g)
Energy or water authority requirements
(h)
Local LEPs, DCPs or other local planning policies and/or guidelines
3.5.2
The Fire Engineering Brief and Fire Engineering Report will not need to be reviewed
whenever alterations and additions are carried out to the building subject to the alternative
solution.
3.5.3
This Fire Engineering Report does not provide approval for construction, and is not a
Part 4A compliance certificate under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 2015 or
Regulation 2000.
3.6
Assumptions
3.6.1
The following assumptions have been made in developing the Fire Engineering Brief and
Fire Engineering Report:
(a)
That the building will otherwise comply with the DTS provisions
(b)
That the owner/insurer accept that the building will be damaged in the event of fire
(c)
That the recommendations in the Fire Engineering Report will be implemented
(d)
That the building will be constructed in accordance with the plans, specifications and
other documentation referred to in the scope of the Fire Engineering Brief.
Page 5 of 23
Relevant stakeholders
4.1.1
The relevant stakeholders are provided in Table 1 (Relevant Stakeholders) below.

Table 1 (Relevant Stakeholders)
Building Owner
Shopping Centres Pty Ltd
BCA Design Consultant
BCA matters Pty Ltd
Fire Engineer
Fire One Pty Ltd
Building characteristics
5.1.1
The building characteristics are provided in Table 2 below.

Table 2 (Building characteristics)
Building Class/use of premises
Class 5 shopping centre
Type of construction/effective height
Type C/over than 25 metres
Location
Internal floor to ceiling height
5 metres
Proximity to other buildings &

boundaries, and buildings of high
importance
5 m from Northern and Eastern boundaries

20 m from Western boundary
25 m from front boundary
Proximity to other hazards
Not known at this time
Emergency services access, site

access, location of FIP, hydrant &
sprinkler booster/tanks
The building fronts two public roads. Access to fire

control centre adjacent the main entry is available
via the main Southern entry to the building. The
room containing the sprinkler valve and other
relevant services is located adjacent the fire
control centre
Building and general layout
Standard shopping centre format
Rise in Storeys
Levels contained
Multi-storey
Total floor area/volume
19 200 m/96 000 m
Access and Egress
Building is served by 21 exits. Roller

shutters will be fitted to all tenancies
discharging to food court or mall
Hidden voids
There are no hidden voids except for ceiling voids
Openings, shafts, ducts and

atriums, ventilation, HVAC, air
handling
No shafts or ducts, no atriums; Building is

naturally and mechanically ventilated
Page 6 of 23
Occupant characteristics
7.1.1
The occupant characteristics are provided in Table 3 below.

Table 3 (Occupant Characteristics)
Characteristics
Description
Distribution
The population in the building will represent a

cross section of the general public including
men, women and children. Most occupants
will be reasonably familiar with the building
design as they will enter and exit the main
entry points, as well as be generally familiar
with the mall and car parking areas.
Population numbers will be based on Table
D1.18 in BCA2014.
Some customers may not have English as a
first language, may not speak English at all,
may not recognise an emergency, may
respond differently to an emergency or may
exhibit unexpected responses in an
emergency due to cultural differences.
All emergency signage, warning and
informational signs and recorded messages
required by this report are noted as being in
English. It is not considered reasonable or
desirable to provide multiple language signs
and messages as this may confuse
occupants.
It is probable that the majority of occupants
will understand English and emergency
instructions. Other occupants be informed by
the behaviour of other occupants and will
follow visual cues.
In the event of a direct threat from a fire, the
occupants will self-evacuate as a normal
response to the visual, auditory and olfactory
cues of encroaching fire or smoke.
State
The occupants will be asleep and ambulatory
Physical and mental attributes
Typical for the general population
Level of assistance
required/available
Assistance may be required for mobility impaired

persons. There is no assistance other than from
related occupants and friends
Emergency training, occupant

(group) roles
Centre management must develop and implement

an emergency plan and the staff shall be trained in
the emergency plan.
The emergency plan for the centre must
recognise the local cultural diversity, and
Shopping Centre staff must have skills to help
communicate an emergency to occupants
Activity at outbreak of fire
The occupants will primarily be focused on

shopping or relates uses. Staff will be focused on
shopping or related uses.
Building familiarity
The occupants will be familiar with the building
Page 7 of 23
General Objectives
8.1
Building regulatory objectives
8.1.1
The main noncompliance issues are the Functional Statements and relevant performance
requirements that will be subject to an alternative solution. The following clauses in the BCA
are relevant:
(a)
A0.4 (Compliance with the BCA)
(b)
A0.5 (Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions)
(c)
A0.7 (Meeting the Performance Requirements)
(d)
A0.8 (Alternative Solutions)
(e)
A0.9 (Assessment Methods)
(f)
A0.10 (Relevant Objectives)
8.1.2
A0.4 (Compliance with the BCA) states that A Building Solution will comply with the BCA if
it satisfies the Performance Requirements.
8.1.3
A0.5 (Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions) states that Compliance with the Performance

Requirements can only be achieved by
(a)
complying with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions; or
(b)
formulating an Alternative Solution which

(i)
complies with the Performance Requirements; or
(ii)
is shown to be at least equivalent to the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions; or
8.1.4
A0.7 (Meeting the Performance Requirements) states that A Building Solution which complies
with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions is deemed to comply with the Performance
Requirements
8.1.5
A0.8 (Alternative Solutions) states that:
8.1.6
(a)
An Alternative Solution must be assessed according to one or more of the

Assessment Methods
(b)
An Alternative Solution will only comply with the BCA if the Assessment Methods
used to determine compliance with the Performance Requirements have been
satisfied
(c)
The Performance Requirements relevant to an Alternative Solution must be

determined in accordance with A0.10.
A0.9 (Assessment Methods) states that The following Assessment Methods, or any
combination of them, can be used to determine that a Building Solution complies with the
Performance Requirements:
(a)
Evidence to support that the use of a material, form of construction or design meets a
Performance Requirement or a Deemed-to-Satisfy Provision as described in A2.2
(b)
Verification Methods such as
(c)
(i)
the Verification Methods in the BCA; or
(ii)
such other Verification Methods as the appropriate authority accepts for

determining compliance with the Performance Requirements.
Expert Judgement.
Page 8 of 23
8.1.7
8.1.8
A0.10 (Relevant Requirements) states that In order to comply with the provisions of A1.5 (to
comply with Sections A to J inclusive) the following method must be used to determine the
Performance Requirement or Performance Requirements relevant to the Alternative Solution:
(a)
Identify the relevant Deemed-to-Satisfy Provision of each Section or Part that is to be

the subject of the Alternative Solution
(b)
Identify the Performance Requirements from the same Sections or Parts that are
relevant to the identified Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
(c)
Identify Performance Requirements relevant to any aspects of the Alternative Solution

proposed or that are affected by the application of the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions,
that are the subject of the Alternative Solution.
The relevant DTS provisions and performance requirements subject to the alternative
solutions in this report are contained in Table 4 below.
Table 4 (DTS provisions and relevant performance requirements)
Non compliance
A0.10 (a)
A0.10 (b) (c)
Assessment
Methodology
Subsystem
1. Excessive
compartment size
C2.2,
Table C2.2
CP2, CP1,
CP9, EP2.2,
DP4, DP5
Qualitative/quantitative
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-E,
SS-F
2. Excessive travel to
some exits
D1.5
DP4, DP5,
CP9, EP2.2
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-D,
SS-E, SS-F
3. Excessive
distance between
some alternative
exits
D1.5
DP4, CP9,
EP2.2
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-E
4. Inadequate
aggregate exit
width for building
D1.7
DP4, DP6,
EP2.2
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-D,
SS-E
5. Use of roller
shutters to some
doorways
D2.20
DP2, DP4,
EP2.2
Qualitative
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-E
6. Operation of latch
to roller shutters
and to most
tenancies
D2.22
DP2, DP4,
EP2.2
Qualitative
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-E
7. Fire shielding to
external fire
hydrants will not
comply
E1.3
EP1.3, CP9
Qualitative
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-C,
SS-F
8. Provide an
automatic smoke
exhaust system or
automatic smoke
and heat vents
with reduced
exhaust rates
E2.2,
Table E2.2b
EP2.2, CP9,
DP4
A0.5(b)(i), A0.9 (b)(ii)
SS-B, SS-D,
SS-E, SS-F
Page 9 of 23
8.2
Other regulatory/non regulatory objectives
8.2.1
This fire engineering report does not address:

(a)
Environmental protection
(b)
Occupational health and safety
(c)
Fire services
(d)
Dangerous goods
(e)
Land use and other planning matters
(f)
Limiting structural and fabric damage
(g)
Limiting building contents and equipment damage
(h)
Maintaining continuity of business operations and financial viability
(i)
Safeguarding community interests and infrastructure.
Hazards
9.1.1
The hazards that will be present in the building will be offset by six sub-systems of
preventative and protective measures. These sub systems include:
(a)
Sub-System A- Fire Detection, Warning and Suppression
(b)
Sub-System B Smoke Development and Spread and Control
(c)
Sub-System C Fire Spread and Impact and Control
(d)
Sub-System D Fire Initiation and Development and Control
(e)
Sub-System E Occupant Evacuation and Control
(f)
Sub-System F Fire Services Intervention
9.1.2
Details of the sub systems subject to an alternative solution are listed in Table 4 above.
9.1.3
It is clear from research that fire in retail premises does not present a significant risk to life.
There were 86 deaths in 77,996 retail fires over 10 years in the USA and only two fatal fire
incidents in NSW.
9.1.4
In NSW the comparable figure for retail premises is 0.79 deaths per 1,000 fires, but since
this is based on only two fatal fire incidents, the figure must be used with caution. The
Australia fatality rate in residential buildings is 7.08 per 1,000 fires.
9.1.5
There is a general trend, for the numbers of civilian deaths and injuries to increase with the
size of the fire. In fact it is shown in the analysis given in Analysis of US Retail Fires that if
some means all fires could be confined to the object first ignited, the civilian fatality rate
would probably fall by a factor of nine.
9.1.6
The following possible ignition sources are identified as possible fire hazards:
9.1.7
(a)
Electrical distribution system faults
(b)
Electrical equipment and appliance faults including display lighting
(d)
Mechanical air conditioning equipment
(e)
Smoking activities and discharge of cigarette butts
It is recommended that a non-smoking policy be implemented within the shopping centre,

which would eliminate this as a possible fire ignition source with the centre. The most likely
ignition source is electrical distribution and electrical appliances malfunctioning and cooking
activities.
Page 10 of 23
9.1.8
36% of all reported fires in shops in the USA are due to heat from electrical equipment
arcing or overloading, and 15% are due to fuel fired or powered objects. Equipment of one
sort or another (electrical and otherwise) is involved in at least 50% of all fire starts with 39%
of these being associated with electrical distribution equipment, 22% with heating and air
conditioning, 17% with appliances, 7% with service and maintenance equipment, and 10%
with cooking. Thus it is reasonable to require that electrical installations are inspected
annually to ensure that existing electrical installations are compliant.
9.1.9
Sprinklers are a significant part of a good fire safety design and their effectiveness is very
important. Depending on assumptions made in interpretation of the Australian Fire Incident
Statistics the reliability of sprinkler system is quoted in the range of 98-99%. In reality it is
more likely to be 95-99%.
9.1.10
Subject to adequate positioning of sprinkler heads in relation to higher racking, and the
absence of partial sprinklering, the efficacy of sprinklers can be taken as close to 100%.
10
Preventative and protective measures
10.1.1
The preventative and protective measures for the building are provided in Table 5 below.
Table 5 (Preventative/protective measures)

Sub-system
Details
SS-A - Fire initiation,

development and control
A sprinkler system is proposed. The mall areas will be

relatively sterile in relation to combustible materials as
there are no kiosks in the mall areas
SS-B - Smoke development,

spread and control
Smoke development and spread will be high due to

tiled floor coverings in all areas, including all retail
areas, an internal ceiling height of 6 m, and dedicated
smoke exhaust system in various areas, and the
sprinkler system
SS-C - Fire detection, warning

and suppression
Fire spread will be controlled by smoke exhaust

systems
SS-D - Fire spread, impact

and control
The building will be provided with smoke and

thermal detection to the extent considered
necessary, will be protected by sprinklers, and will
be provided with a sound system and intercom
system for emergency purposes complying where
applicable with AS 2441.1
SS-E - Occupant evacuation

and control
Occupants may choose to stay in the building until

Fire NSW arrive unless directed to leave an area
subject to fire by the fire warden, or may choose to
evacuate to open space or to a safe refuge in another
part of the building as directed by the fire warden
The detection system and a sound system and
intercom system for emergency purposes will facilitate
occupant egress, and early response by Fire NSW
SS-F - Fire Services

Intervention
Fire NSW will be provided with external fire hydrants,

booster connection, and a fire control room, and
systems in the building will be connected to a fire
alarm monitoring system connected to a fire station or
fire station dispatch centre in accordance with
AS 2441.1
Page 11 of 23
11
Trial designs for evaluation
11.1.1
Trial designs may incorporate measures which are not required by the relevant DTS
provisions which may ultimately be required to compensate for the areas of noncompliance
with the DTS provisions. Trial designs should never incorporate redundancies to compensate
for potential failures of components of the fire safety system of the trial design, and the
quantification of these redundancies should be carried out by using the sensitivity studies.
11.2
Management and Use
11.2.1
It is of prime importance that an emergency evacuation plan is developed and implemented

for the building, and that staff are trained in the implementation of the emergency plan. Fire
drills and a system of fire wardens are necessary to support this.
11.2.2
The fire engineering in this report is based on the assumption that a fire alert tone will initiate
a trained staff response in the event of a fire, and that subsequent alarms will be followed by
a timely execution of the emergency evacuation plan by the staff, and an orderly evacuation
of staff and customers to open space, or to a safe place inside the building that is remote
from areas subject to fire.
11.3
Commissioning and testing
11.3.1
All fire safety measures are to be maintained and tested in accordance with AS 1851 and
the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 2005, or other appropriate standards
applicable to the systems as installed.
11.3.2
Testing and certification of fire safety measures must be carried out on a three monthly
basis.
12
Acceptance criteria and related matters
12.1
Qualitative Assessments
12.1.1
The acceptance criteria for qualitative assessments are the equivalence to a DTS provision
or the collective agreement of the stakeholders. The IFER only allow for quantitative
approaches and states that "the methods chosen will be appropriate to the approach used".
12.2
Quantitative Assessments
12.2.1
The following acceptance criteria are proposed for the assessment of the alternative
solutions compliance with the performance requirements of the IFEGs.
12.2.2
The acceptance criteria will be to demonstrate that fire safety is adversely affected and that
the occupants may safely evacuate the building.
12.2.3
The limiting condition for radiation is assumed to be 3.5 kW/m.
12.2.4
The toxicity of combustion products varies widely according to the properties of the fuel. The
limiting conditions for all toxic products (asphyxiants and irritants) are unlikely to be exceeded
for up to 30 minutes if the smoke optical density is equivalent to a visibility distance of
5 m.
12.2.5
Dense smoke may obscure exit paths, slowing or preventing escape. Visibility would be
considered satisfactory for all areas in the building large enclosures if the smoke optical
density is equivalent to a visibility distance of 5 m.
12.2.6
In considering the role of Fire NSW it is important to estimate the time at which the officers
will be effective in limiting the spread of the fire and reducing the heat output of the fire in the
enclosure of fire origin. This response time is variable and is a function of the time at which
the alarm is received at the fire station, the travel time to the building, the set up time
once the officers have arrived, and the time to impact the fire.
12.2.7
While Fire NSW will be available to assist evacuation through search and rescue of
occupants, this action is not relied upon for occupant evacuation or property protection.
Page 12 of 23
12.3
Safety Factor
12.3.1
The fire engineering in this report dealing with excessive travel to some alternative exits
(D1.4), excessive distance between some exits (D1.5), inadequate aggregate exit width for
building (D1.6) and operation of latch to roller shutters to tenancies (D2.22) involves
comparing Required Safe Evacuation Time (ASET) and Available Safe Evacuation Time
(RSET).
12.3.2
This Fire Engineering Brief requires that RSET must be greater than ASET plus an
agreed safety factor. The agreed safety factor is 1.1.
12.4
Approaches
12.4.1
The Guidelines state that in selecting the approaches to be used to analyse the groups of
issues or single issues identified in the analysis strategy, a number of decisions need to be
made. The analysis in this fire engineering report will be carried out applying qualitative and
quantitative methodologies. Deterministic tools will be used to support the quantitative
methodologies.
12.5
Methods of analysis, sensitivity, redundancy
12.5.1
The fire engineering will consider sensitivities (e.g. modifying or changing design inputs to
test the robustness of the outputs), redundancies (e.g. considering what would happen if
one or more of the critical sub systems failed) and uncertainty (e.g. some fire safety
equipment may have uncertainties associated with stated performance characteristics.
12.6
Fire scenarios, design fires and modelling
12.6.1
Where necessary, fire and smoke modelling will be based on f -squared fires. For a Fire
Engineered performance approach, the fire growth characteristics are probably more critical
than ultimate fire size as evacuation or fire brigade intervention is probable before the peak
heat release rate is attained. In the absence of fire growth characteristics for a particular fire
load, it is common practice in fire engineering to use a t fire scenario.
12.6.2
Modelling will be undertaken using deterministic tools including Computational Fluid

Dynamics program Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS version 5) and the zone model CFAST,
both produced by the American Government Agency and the National Institute of Standards
and Technology (NIST).
12.6.3
ASET and RSET will be determined using the modelling, subject to the acceptance criteria.
Page 13 of 23
13
Alternative Solution 1 (Excessive compartment size)
13.1
Relevant information
13.1.1
The Class 5 residential building has a rise in storeys (C1.3) of one (1) and a preliminary
Type of construction (Table C1.1) of Type C. The floor area and volume (C2.3, Table
C2.3) is excessive (19 200 m/96 000 m) and the building is not considered a large isolated
building.
13.1.2
The relevant provisions subject to the alternative solution are as follows:

(a)
Performance requirements CP1, CP9, EP2.2, DP4 and DP5 (b)

SS-B, SS-E, and SS-F are the relevant sub systems.
13.1.3
A qualitative assessment is proposed.
13.2
Assessment
13.2.1
13.2.2
The acceptance criteria are to demonstrate equivalence with the DTS provisions for a large
isolated building. For Alternative Solution 1 the only area of noncompliance with the DTS
provision for a large isolated building (the DTS provision used for equivalence purposes) is
that the access road around the Northern and Eastern sides of the building are required to
be 6 m wide, but are only 5 m wide.
13.2.3
It is assumed that NSW Fire & Rescue will be able to gain access around the perimeter of
the Northern and Eastern sides of the building using the 5 m wide access road. Based on
this assumption it is considered that the proposal to allow a fire compartment size greater
than permitted by Table C2.2 satisfies the relevant performance requirements, to the degree
necessary, for the following reasons:
(a)
The building is equivalent to a large isolated building and is considered to satisfy CP1,
CP2 and CP9
(b)
The egress from the building is considered to satisfy DP4 and DP5, to the degree
necessary, for the reasons as outlined commencing on page 22 in Alternative
Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some exits)
(c)
The smoke hazard management system serving the building is considered to satisfy
EP2.2 and CP9, to the degree necessary, for the reasons as outlined commencing on
page 20 in Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates).
Page 14 of 23
14
Alternative Solution 2 (Excessive distance between alternative exits)
14.1
14.1.1
The distance between some alternative exits exceeds the 60 m allowed pursuant to D1.4
The distance between some alternative exits in some areas will be up to 90 metres.
14.1.2

(a)
Performance requirements are DP4 and EP2.2
(b)
SS-B and SS-E are the relevant sub systems.
14.2
Assessment
14.2.1
A quantitative assessment is proposed.
14.2.2
The smoke and egress modelling carried out to address Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke
exhaust with reduced exhaust rates) and Alternative Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some
1
exits) assumed that the number of persons deemed to be accommodated was 5 200 , that
2
the proposed aggregate exit width is 20 m , and that no point on a floor was more than
30 m from an exit, or a point from which travel in different directions to 2 exits was available.
The modelling also demonstrated that a distance between some alternative exits of up to
90 metres was irrelevant, and that the exits allowed occupants to evacuate safely to open
space or to a safe place inside the building.
14.2.3
The modelling outcomes demonstrated that the relevant performance requirements are
satisfied where not less than 20 m of exit width is provided, and where the various areas in
the building are provided with dedicated smoke exhaust with the smoke exhaust rates
required by Alternative Solution 6 (see Section 18 of this fire engineering report).
14.2.4
It is considered that the proposal to allow a distance between some alternative exits of up to
90 metres in lieu of the 60 m required by D1.5 satisfies DP4, CP9 and EP2.2 to the degree
necessary.
A more conservative population of 5 200 in lieu of 4 990 persons was assumed for modelling purposes
A more conservative exit width of 20 m in lieu of 25.5 m was assumed for modelling purposes
Page 15 of 23
15
Alternative Solution 3 (Inadequate aggregate exit width)
15.1
15.1.1
The aggregate exit width for the building is less than required pursuant to D1.6 for the
number of persons deemed to be accommodated (4 990 persons) pursuant to D1.15. The
required exit width is 34 m; the proposed exit width is 25.5 m.
15.1.2

(a)
Performance requirements are EP2.2
(b)
SS-B, SS-D, SS-E are the relevant sub systems.
15.2
Assessment
15.2.1
A quantitative assessment is proposed.
15.2.2
The smoke and egress modelling carried out to address Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke
exhaust with reduced exhaust rates) and Alternative Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some
3
exits) assumed that the number of persons deemed to be accommodated was 5 200 , and
4
that the proposed aggregate exit width is 20 m .
15.2.3
The modelling outcomes demonstrated that the relevant performance requirements are
satisfied where not less than 20 m of exit width is provided, and where the various areas in
the building are provided with dedicated smoke exhaust with the smoke exhaust rates
required by Alternative Solution 6 (see Section 18 of this fire engineering report).
15.2.4
It is considered that the proposal to provide 25.5 m of aggregate exit width in lieu of the
34 m required by D1.6 satisfies DP4, DP6 and EP2.2 to the degree necessary.
A more conservative population of 5 200 in lieu of 4 990 persons was assumed for modelling purposes
A more conservative exit width of 20 m in lieu of 25.5 m was assumed for modelling purposes
Page 16 of 23
16
Alternative Solution 4 (Operation of latch to roller shutters)
16.1
16.1.1
The operation of some latches to roller shutters will not comply with D2.21. The building is
served by 21 exits, each 1.5 m wide. No fire isolated exits are proposed. Roller shutters will
be fitted to the front of all tenancies where the tenancies discharge directly onto the food
court or mall area
16.1.2

(a)
Performance requirements are DP2, DP4
(b)
SS-B and SS-E are the relevant sub systems.
16.2
Assessment
16.2.1
16.2.2
The latches to the roller shutters fitted to the front of all tenancies with a floor area more
than 200 m will not comply with D2.21, which requires that roller shutters in the path of
travel to a required exit must be readily openable without a key from the side that faces a
person seeking egress, by a single hand downward action or pushing action on a single
device which is located between 900 mm and 1.2 m from the floor.
16.2.3
The roller shutters are fitted to the main entry and egress points to these large tenancies,
and customers will enter and exit via these doorways as they are familiar with the access
points.
16.2.4
Performance requirement DP1 addresses the issue of certain doors in buildings. It is

considered that fitting latches to the subject roller shutters discharging directly onto the food
court or mall areas satisfies performance requirement DP2 for the following reasons:
16.2.5
(a)
The roller shutters and latches are locked in an open position during normal operating
hours
(b)
It is unlikely that customers will be in the tenancy when the roller shutters and latches
are locked
(c)
Staff or cleaners lawfully inside the tenancy "after hours" will have access to keys to
unlock the shutter in the event of an emergency and in any event have access to
other exits
(d)
In the event of fire after hours cleaners and staff will know where the exits serving the
tenancy are located.
It is considered that the proposal to use roller shutters as part of the exit system satisfies
DP1 to the degree necessary.
Page 17 of 23
17
Alternative Solution 5 (Fire shielding to external fire hydrants)
17.1
17.1.1
The shielding to some external fire hydrants will not comply with E1.3 or AS 2463 which
require that external hydrants must be located so that Fire Brigade professionals connecting
a hose to the hydrant risers are protected from a fire in the building by a radiation buffer
zone. This buffer can be provided either by locating the hydrant at least 10 m from the
building, or by locating the hydrant at less than 10 m and behind a fire resisting barrier. The
barrier can form part of the external wall of the building, and would need to achieve a fire
resistance level not less than 90/90/90, and extend not less than 2 m each side of the
hydrant and 3 m high from ground level.
17.1.2
All of the external hydrants will be located adjacent external walls that will not achieve a fire
resistance level of 90/90/90.
17.1.3

(a)
Performance requirements are EP1.3 and CP9
(b)
SS-B, are the relevant sub systems.
17.2
Assessment
17.2.1
17.2.2
The location of fire hydrants was discussed during the FEB process. Fire & Rescue NSW
indicated that their officers would prefer to use external hydrants fitted with two lengths of
hose (i.e. 30 m hose + 30 m hose + 10 spray) rather than rely on one length of hose (i.e.
30 m hose + 10 spray) fitted to an internal hydrant.
17.2.3
It was agreed during the FEB that the external hydrants could be located adjacent external
walls or doorways that do not achieve a fire resistance level not less than 90/90/90, as the
building was protected by a sprinkler system, subject to the fire hydrant system being
enhanced as follows:
17.2.4
(a)
Hydrants must be located adjacent to each exit from the building to ensure that the
10 spray from the hydrant can reach all points on the floor
(b)
Additional exits must be provided from the rear of Major 1, the mini major, and in
other tenancies bounded by an external wall, as necessary, to ensure that the
10 spray from the hydrant can reach all points on the floor
(c)
Internal wall wetting drenchers must be provided to the inside of external walls
providing shielding to fire hydrants, with each shielding wall area being not less than
2 m each side of the hydrant and 3 m high from ground level
It is considered that performance requirements EP1.3 and CP9 are satisfied to the degree
necessary, subject to the hydrants system complying with E1.3 and AS 2419.1, except as
modified by the requirements in 17.2.3 above.
Page 18 of 23
18
Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates)
18.1
18.1.1
The original proposal was to develop an alternative solution to demonstrate that the building
would not need to be served by a smoke exhaust system to comply with the relevant
performance requirements. This proposal was amended during the initial Fire Engineering
Brief process when it became apparent that some form of dedicated smoke exhaust system
was required to all areas with a floor area greater than 500 m.
18.1.2
The proposal does not comply with E2.2, Table E2.2b or Specification E2.2b, which requires
that a smoke exhaust system is provided throughout the building with smoke exhaust rates
greater than those proposed as part of the alternative solution.
18.1.3

(a)
Performance requirements are EP2.2, CP9 and DP4
(b)
SS-B, SS-D, SS-E and SS-F are the relevant sub systems.
18.2
Assessment
18.2.1
A qualitative and quantitative assessment is proposed.
18.2.2
The various areas were modelling using individual smoke exhaust systems with the
extraction rates as shown in Table 6 below.
Table 6 (Smoke exhaust rates)
Area
Floor area (m)
Smoke exhaust rate
M3
500 m
NIL
M1
1 200 m
10 m/second
M2
1 100 m
10 m/second
Mini major
1 200 m
10 m/second
Food court
2 500 m
20 m/second
Major 2
3 900 m
25 m/second
Major 1
6 000 m
30 m/second
18.2.3
An FDS model has been built for each of these areas to determine the effectiveness of the
mechanical exhaust in maintaining tenable conditions in accordance with the acceptance
criteria referred to in Section 12 (Acceptance criteria and related matters). The exhaust
points were limited to one ceiling exhaust point for each area.
18.2.4
For the purposes of establishing ATES, the model will run for approximately 30 minutes, or
twice the evacuation time. It is assumed that the fire will achieve flashover if the enclosure
temperature reaches 750C.
18.2.5
Smoke detectors and thermocouples were inserted in the model at 2 m above the relevant
floor level to allow the smoke obscuration and temperature profiles at this height to be
determined.
18.2.6
The fire modelled for the analysis in each area was a medium growth t-squared fire that is
sprinkler controlled and that grows to 1MW.
18.2.7
The outputs of the modelling for ASET and REST and the actual resultant safety factor are
provided in Table 7 below.
Page 19 of 23
Table 7 (ASET/RSET comparison)

Area
Exhaust rate
ASET
RSET
Safety factor
Acceptable
M3
NIL
300 s
200 s
1.5
Yes
M1
10 m/s
500 s
420 s
1.2
Yes
M2
10 m/s
560 s
480 s
1.2
Yes
Mini major
10 m/s
425 s
300 s
1.4
Yes
Food court
20 m/s
550 s
420 s
1.3
Yes
Major 2
25 m/s
450 s
360 s
1.3
Yes
Major 1
30 m/s
450 s
420 s
1.1
Yes
18.2.8
The time required for Fire NSW to carry out search and rescue, and fire fighting operations,
was not included in the RSET calculation.
18.2.9
The outputs in Table 7 demonstrate that ASET exceeds RSET in each area by a safety
factor of not less than the agreed 1.1.
18.2.10
It is considered that performance requirements EP2.2, CP9 and DP4 are satisfied to the
degree necessary, subject to all areas having a floor area greater than 500 m being
provided with a dedicated smoke exhaust system with the exhaust rates as shown in
Table 7.
The limiting factor when assessing ASET for each area was the time available prior to the onset of
untenable conditions due to toxicity (The factors forming part of the ASET analysis are temperature,
toxicity and visibility)
ASET/RSET = the actual safety factor as shown in column 3. The agreed safety factor is 1.1
The ASET/RSET comparison is considered acceptable where the safety factor is equal to or greater
than 1.1 (the agreed safety factor is 1.1)
Page 20 of 23
19
Alternative Solution 7 (Excessive travel to some exits)
19.1
19.1.1
Pursuant to D1.5 no point on a floor must be more than 20 m from an exit, or a point from
which travel in different directions to 2 exits is available, in which case the maximum
distance to one of those exits must not exceed 40 m. An alternative solution is proposed for
the following reasons:
(a)
Some points on the floor inside some of the smaller tenancies is more than 20 m from
an exit, and from a point from which travel in different directions to 2 exits is available
(b)
Travel distance to some exits exceeds the 40 m allowed pursuant to D1.4. The travel
distance in some areas will be in excess of 60 metres
19.1.2
The building is served by 21 exits as shown on page 7, each 1.5 m wide, no fire isolated
exits are proposed, and roller shutters will be fitted to the front of all tenancies where the
tenancies discharge directly onto the food court or mall areas.
19.1.3

(a)
Performance requirements DP4 and EP2.2
(b)
SS-B, SS-D, are the relevant sub systems.
19.2
Assessment
19.2.1
A qualitative/quantitative assessment is proposed.
19.2.2
The egress modelling will be based on the following assumptions:

(a)
ASET was determined using the FDS CFD modelling and the outcome was subjected
to the acceptance criteria
(b)
RSET will be determined from the time it takes from fire initiation required for
occupants to reach a place of safety. RSET comprises a number of components as
follows:
(c)
19.2.3
(i)
Cue period or detection phase (Pc) The time of a cue that indicates the
occurrence of a fire. The cue is from the smoke detectors installed throughout
the building. The smoke detection is assumed to be based on the temperature
difference of 13C above ambient (T = 13C) and a low RTI as suggested in
IFEG
(ii)
Response period (Pr) The time at which occupants having received a cue
and recognise it as an indication of a fire from the occupant warning system. It
is assumed this response time to be 30 seconds
(iii)
Delay period (Pd) The time at which occupants begin the evacuation
movement, which occurs after a delay during which occupants carry out other
actions (including no action). It is assumed this occupant coping time to be
30 seconds
(iv)
Movement period (Pm) The time when occupants reach a safe area or
evacuate the building. The travel speed is assumed to be 2 m/second.
RSET = Pc + Pr + Pd + Pm
The design group for modelling comprise:

(a)
Staff distributed throughout the building who are aged 18 to 65, but there is a
tendency towards the younger end of the range and a majority is female. The staff are
mobile, are expected to move at an average speed of travel. The hearing and visual
ability is in the normal range for the population. The staff are trained in emergency
evacuation and is likely to respond with little panic in an emergency. The staff will not
require additional assistance in an emergency and will be familiar with the store and
exits.
Page 21 of 23
(b)
Customers distributed throughout the building but not in the back of house areas.
The age of the customers is expected to be in the normal range for the population,
including accompanied children. The customers will be mobile, although some
customers will have mobility issues and may move at the lower range of the expected
speed of travel. The hearing and visual ability is in the normal range for the
population. The customers are likely to be reasonably familiar with the building and
main entrances to the various tenancies. This is likely to be the exit that most
customers will use in the event of an emergency.
(c)
The three malls and the food court are considered relatively safe places for staff and
customers egressing from a tenancy, as each mall area and the food court are
protected by a sprinkler system and by a dedicated smoke exhaust system (see
Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates) on page 20
below).
19.2.4
Determining ASET involves modelling each area (Major 1, Major 2, mini major, M1, M2, M3
and food court as shown on the plan on page 7) using an appropriate design fire. The
design fire is assumed to be located in each area and is a t-squared medium growth fire that
peaks on sprinkler activation and then levels off to a constant heat release rate. This is a
conservative assumption as most fires are extinguished by sprinklers.
19.2.5
The outputs in Table 7 demonstrate that ASET exceeds RSET in each area by a safety
factor of not less than the agreed 1.1.
19.2.6
It is considered that performance requirements DP4, DP5, CP9 and EP2.2 are satisfied to
the degree necessary, subject to all areas having a floor area greater than 500 m being
provided with a dedicated smoke exhaust system with the exhaust rates as shown in
Table 7 above.
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fire engineering brief

Building Fire Safety and Compliance

Building Fire Safety and Compliance

The Fire Engineering Report in Sections 13 to 18 has been developed by a practising

Excessive compartment size (C2.2, Table C2.2)

Excessive distance between some alternative exits (D1.4)

Inadequate aggregate exit width for building (D1.6)

Operation of latch to roller shutters and to most tenancies (D2.21)

Fire shielding to external fire hydrants will not comply (E1.3)

Excessive travel to some exits (D1.4)

The Fire Engineering Report in Sections 13 to 18 demonstrate the following:

Alternative Solution 1 (Excessive compartment size):

The building is equivalent to a large isolated building and is considered to

The smoke hazard management system serving the building is considered to

Building Fire Safety and Compliance

Alternative Solution 2 (Excessive distance between alternative exits):

Alternative Solution 3 (Inadequate aggregate exit width):

Alternative Solution 5 (Fire shielding to external fire hydrants):

The proposal to provide 25.5 m of aggregate exit width in lieu of the 34 m

Alternative Solution 3 (Operation of roller shutters):

The proposal to allow a distance between some alternative exits of up to

Performance requirements EP1.3 and CP9 are satisfied to the degree

Alternative Solution 6 (Smoke exhaust with reduced exhaust rates):

Scope and basis

The Building Code of Australia 2015 (BCA)

The International Fire Engineering Policy 2001, (IFEG)

Building Fire Safety and Compliance

The non-compliances with the DTS provisions are summarised as follows:

Excessive compartment size (C2.2, Table C2.2)

Excessive travel to some exits (D1.4)

Excessive distance between some alternative exits (D1.4)

Inadequate aggregate exit width for building (D1.7)

Operation of roller shutters and to most tenancies (D2.21)

Fire shielding to external fire hydrants will not comply (E1.3)

Other DTS provisions in the BCA, or Property protection

Any structural elements or geotechnical matters relating to the building

Occupational, Health and Safety matters

Fire services (Section D of BCA2015) design or operation

Mechanical, electrical, security or lift systems

The Disability Discrimination Act or Part D3 of the BCA

Energy or water authority requirements

Local LEPs, DCPs or other local planning policies and/or guidelines

That the recommendations in the Fire Engineering Report will be implemented

Building Fire Safety and Compliance

The relevant stakeholders are provided in Table 1 (Relevant Stakeholders) below.

Shopping Centres Pty Ltd

BCA Design Consultant

BCA matters Pty Ltd

Fire One Pty Ltd

The building characteristics are provided in Table 2 below.

Class 5 shopping centre

Type of construction/effective height

Type C/over than 25 metres

Proximity to other buildings &

5 m from Northern and Eastern boundaries

Proximity to other hazards

Not known at this time

Emergency services access, site

The building fronts two public roads. Access to fire

Building and general layout

Standard shopping centre format

Total floor area/volume

19 200 m/96 000 m