Building Construction Chapter 2 Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following factors influences fire behavior?

Basic building classifications

Occupancy classifications

Fire or fuel load

All of the above (correct)

What does IBC initially classify structures by?

The materials used in their construction

What is the classification for Type I construction?

Fire resistive (correct)

Noncombustible

Wood Frame

Heavy Timber

These classifications can help firefighters determine the _________ of structural collapse under fire.

likelihood Signup and view all the answers

What are the building classifications based on?

Materials used in construction and fire resistance ratings required for structural components Signup and view all the answers

What does NFPA 220 detail?

The requirements for each of the classifications and subclassifications Signup and view all the answers

How is the fire resistance designated in NFPA 220?

By a three-digit code Signup and view all the answers

Type I construction is classified by the presence of:

Noncombustible structural components Signup and view all the answers

How does the addition of fire resistance affect structural integrity?

Increases it during a fire Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of variation in fire resistance for Type I construction regarding roof deck and construction?

One to two hours Signup and view all the answers

What is concrete classified as?

An inherently noncombustible material with good thermal insulating properties Signup and view all the answers

In Type II construction, in addition to steel and concrete block, what materials can be used?

Aluminum and glass Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical use of combustible materials in Type I construction?

Roof coverings and interior finishes Signup and view all the answers

Match the following Type I construction applications with their fire resistance durations.

Bearing walls, columns and beams = 2-4 hours Floor construction = 2 or 3 hours Roof deck = 1 to 2 hours Interior partitions enclosing stairwells = 1 or 2 hours Signup and view all the answers

Reinforced concrete can fail under intense fire.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is Type II-A (protected) construction's requirement for structural fire resistance?

One hour Signup and view all the answers

What is the key characteristic of Protected Non-combustible construction?

Similar to Type I but with a lower requirement for fire resistance Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fire Behavior Influences

Firefighter safety relies on understanding factors affecting fire behavior, including building classifications and fire resistance attributes.
Key influences on fire behavior include occupancy classifications, fire load, and basic building classifications.

IBC Classifications

The International Building Code (IBC) classifies structures primarily based on construction materials.

Building Classifications

Five major classifications guide fire protection and building code enforcement:
- Type I: Fire resistive
- Type II: Noncombustible or protected noncombustible
- Type III: Exterior protected (typically masonry)
- Type IV: Heavy timber
- Type V: Wood frame

Importance of Classifications

Classifications assist firefighters in evaluating the likelihood of structural collapse and occupant safety during fires.

Building Code Classifications

Building classifications are determined by the materials used in construction and the fire resistance ratings of structural components.

NFPA 220 Standards

NFPA 220, the Standard on Types of Building Construction, outlines requirements for construction classifications and subclassifications.

Fire Resistance Code

NFPA 220 uses a three-digit code for each classification:
- 1st digit: Fire resistance in hours for exterior bearing walls
- 2nd digit: Fire resistance for structural frames or columns supporting multiple floors
- 3rd digit: Fire resistance for floor construction

Type I Classification

Type I construction requires noncombustible structural components that meet specific fire resistance ratings.

Impact on Structural Integrity

Increased fire resistance contributes to enhanced structural integrity during fire events.

Fire Resistance Examples (Type I)

Type I construction fire resistance variations include:
- Bearing walls, columns, beams: 2-4 hours
- Floor construction: 2 or 3 hours
- Roof deck and supporting construction: 1-2 hours
- Interior partitions for stairwells and corridors: Typically 1-2 hours, as specified by local code
- Partitions separating occupancies: As specified by local code

Function of Type I Components

Fire-resistive components in Type I structures do not extinguish fires but transfer and radiate heat from the fire.

Characteristics of Concrete

Concrete is acknowledged for its noncombustibility and excellent thermal insulation properties, enhancing fire resistance.

Concrete Assembly Variations

The type of concrete assembly affects overall fire resistance, despite its inherent noncombustible qualities.

Reinforced Concrete Vulnerability

Reinforced concrete structures can fail under extreme conditions, such as explosions or prolonged intense fires.

Allowances for Combustible Materials (Type I)

Building codes often allow limited combustible materials in Type I buildings for:
- Roof coverings
- Interior finishes
- Door frames, window sashes, and others

Type II Construction

Type II structures may include aluminum and glass in limited structural roles alongside steel and concrete.

Roof Fire Resistance Provisions

Certain building codes may waive fire resistance ratings for roofs over 20 feet above the floor for specific occupancies.

Type II-A Requirements

Type II-A (protected) structures necessitate a minimum fire resistance of one hour for structural components.

Protected Non-combustible Definition

Protected non-combustible structures are akin to Type I but have relatively lower fire resistance requirements.

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Description

Test your knowledge on key concepts from Chapter 2 of Building Construction. This quiz focuses on the basics of fire conditions, building classifications, and the materials used in construction. Perfect for students in construction management or fire safety courses.