Integration of Different Fire Protection/Life Safety Elements into the Building Design Process
Publication: Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction
Volume 14, Issue 4
Abstract
A building constitutes an integrated collection of systems that together provide a controlled environment for its occupants. And as such, in addition to the frames and foundations, such components as fire protection, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineered subsystems are also a vital part of any building. Considering the variety of subsystems that make up of a building, an overall design and construction process would then require a proper planning for integration of these various subsystems into the building. Furthermore, system integration has also long been recognized as the key to an effective and efficient building operation. The integration process of a fire protection subsystem, along with MEP subsystems, within a building is quite challenging indeed and can have a profound impact on client satisfaction. This process becomes especially critical when one considers the integration of technology into the building, including the possibility for future changes in technology and plan for their incorporation at a later time. The objective of this paper is to provide a discussion on the integration of safety and fire protection and several MEP systems into buildings in an effort to achieve the most efficient, economical, and environment friendly design. Specifically, the paper presents an approach that considers technical knowledge, available through codes and standards, as well as one’s experience and professional judgment.
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Acknowledgments
A specific acknowledgment and thanks to my previous student who participate to some interviews. A special acknowledgment and thanks to all interviewees, especially the following expert designers and professionals: Roger Frechette from Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM); Dan Murphy from Engineering Systems Design (ESD); Val Petersons from McGuire Engineers; Chris Rauch; Lou Rossetti; and Dave Sigler. All of them are from Chicago. Without their participation and help this work will not be possible.
References
IBC. (2006). International building code.
Klote, J. H., and Milke, J. A. (2002). Design of smoke management systems, ASHRAE.
Korman, T. M., and Tatum, C. B. (2001). Development of a knowledge-based system to improve mechanical, electrical, and plumbing coordination.
Megri, A. C. (2008). “Primer on fire sprinkler installation for structural engineers,” Pract. Period. Struct. Des. Constr., 13(2), 54–62.
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© 2009 ASCE.
History
Received: Jul 6, 2007
Accepted: Nov 5, 2008
Published online: Oct 15, 2009
Published in print: Nov 2009
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