Fire Protection Systems in High-Rise Buildings

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary objective of an active fire protection system in a tall building?

To provide increased life safety measures for occupants and first responders (correct)

To minimize property damage

To decrease the response time of the fire department

To reduce the frequency of false alarms

What is the functionality of the fire alarm control panel (FACP) in an active fire protection system?

To recall all elevator bank cars in a Phase II mode

To activate the fire pump and sprinkler system only

To identify the location of the device that has activated and make an appropriate announcement (correct)

To automatically shut down the entire HVAC system

What is one of the benefits of an active fire protection system in a high-rise building?

Eliminating the need for stairwell pressurization

Increased water pressure in the sprinkler system

Reduced installation costs

Providing information to firefighters about device activations and system status (correct)

What occurs when a lobby or elevator machine room smoke detector and sprinkler waterflow alarm is activated?

The stairwell pressurization system is activated, and the affected floor fire doors are closed Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred location for the fire command center (FCC) in a high-rise building?

In the main lobby entrance Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fire alarm control panel (FACP) voice communication system?

To make an appropriate announcement when a device has activated Signup and view all the answers

What is activated when a smoke detector and sprinkler waterflow alarm is triggered in a high-rise building?

The stairwell pressurization system, floor fire doors, and elevators in Phase I mode Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to clearly identify the location of the FACP in a high-rise building?

So that the location is included in the preincident fire and battle plans Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) in a high-rise building?

To notify the fire and emergency services of a potential problem Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of the FACP's data display window in a fire situation?

It identifies the type of initiating device, floor number, and room location Signup and view all the answers

What is a common fear that occupants might experience during a fire alarm activation?

Fear of the unknown and uncertainty Signup and view all the answers

How might fire protection systems be inadvertently hampered?

By taking the FAS offline without justification Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the Fire Command Center (FCC)?

To display a fire alarm activation on the alarm panel Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential problem with the replacement parts installed in fire protection systems?

They are not the right size or functioning differently than original parts Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the incident commander (IC) in a fire situation?

To verify the situation and announce an all-clear signal if necessary Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential frustration for occupants during a fire alarm activation?

Being unable to rapidly get where they need to go Signup and view all the answers

What is a way to prevent a recurrence of a fire incident?

By determining what went wrong and what needs to be done to prevent a recurrence Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fire protection systems' automated operations?

To lessen the initial fire and smoke movement Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended location for the secondary FACP?

On a floor other than the lobby floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the two-way voice communication capability at the FCC?

To notify occupants and support fire department/brigade operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the average life cycle of a fire alarm and detection system (FAS)?

15 years Signup and view all the answers

Where can the fire department/brigade plug-in phone be found?

In the stairwell by the standpipe riser or elevator lobby Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the floor red warden phone?

To support fire department/brigade operations Signup and view all the answers

Where can the FCC be posted?

In a room off the lobby or below grade in a separate room Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge firefighters may face in high-rise residential occupancies?

Having to interact with occupants coming down the stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the blast-resistant window in the FCC?

To provide a clear view of the lobby area Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fire alarm control panel (FACP)?

To receive and identify an initiating alarm device activation Signup and view all the answers

What may compromise a building lobby?

All-hazard threats Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Fire Alarm Activation System in high-rise buildings?

To notify the occupants of a potential fire hazard Signup and view all the answers

Why is it not recommended to take the FACP system offline during normal business hours?

Because it may interfere with normal business operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of unwarranted fire alarm activations in tall buildings?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to address FACP malfunctions in high-rise buildings?

Increase the frequency of routine fire alarm inspections Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having a preventive maintenance program in place for FACP systems?

It reduces the risk of FACP malfunctions Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of unwarranted fire alarm activations in high-rise buildings?

It may cause disruption to business operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a one-way voice communication system in high-rise buildings?

To inform occupants of a potential fire hazard Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to address unwarranted fire alarm activations in high-rise buildings?

Identify and address the root cause of the activation Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having a functional FACP system in high-rise buildings?

It provides an early warning system for occupants Signup and view all the answers

Why do some fire departments/brigades reduce their response to unwarranted fire alarm activations in high-rise buildings?

Because they want to prioritize responses to actual emergencies Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when it comes to fire alarm devices in high-rise buildings?

The devices may trigger false alarms, leading to business interruptions and losses Signup and view all the answers

According to NFPA 3, how often should fire alarm devices be cleaned in ambient tall building conditions?

Every six months Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of pre-scripted messages in FACP automatic voice messaging systems?

To provide clear instructions to building occupants Signup and view all the answers

What type of FACP voice communication system is used in some high-rise buildings?

Two-way Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the on-duty fire and life safety director's manual announcement before the fire department's arrival?

To provide clear instructions to building occupants Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of scripted building announcements during a fire emergency?

To deter independent actions that would place occupants in harm's way Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended interval for cleaning fire alarm devices in high-rise buildings?

Every six months Signup and view all the answers

What type of system adjusts according to the pressure differential within the stairwell to maintain an acceptable pressure?

Pressurization system Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a fixed system in a fire alarm and signaling code?

To detect fires Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the pre-incident fire plan for staged evacuations?

Several floors that would be identified Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a fixed stairwell pressurization system in a tall building?

To maintain a smoke-free environment in the stairwell Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential limitation of a single injection system in a tall building?

It may be affected by numerous open stairwell doors Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to calibrate a stair pressurization system accurately?

To prevent excessive door-opening force Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum airflow allowed into the stairwell, according to NFPA 14?

30 pounds of force Signup and view all the answers

What was the goal of the research conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)?

To establish the optimal fan size, design performance, and fan positions for portable equipment Signup and view all the answers

Why are multiple injection systems considered a better design for tall buildings?

They can supply air from numerous locations throughout the stairwell Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location for the supply inlets in a stairwell pressurization system?

Every three to five floors Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of notifying tenants of a fire alarm in a tall building?

To allow tenants to prepare for the arrival of the fire department Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of stairwell pressurization systems in tall buildings?

They provide a smoke-free environment for occupants to evacuate Signup and view all the answers

Why were fixed stairwell pressurization systems not commonly installed in buildings constructed before the early 1970s?

They were not yet developed as a technology Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of locating standpipe outlet connections in occupancy or public corridors in high-rise buildings in Canada?

To prevent smoke from migrating into the stairwells Signup and view all the answers

According to NFPA 14, what is the primary standard for installing standpipe and hose systems?

Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems Signup and view all the answers

Why might a local AHJ require a person to be licensed by the fire department/brigade?

To perform testing and inspection of standpipe systems Signup and view all the answers

What is a common nickname for standpipe systems?

Fire hydrants in the sky Signup and view all the answers

Where are standpipe hose connection vertical riser systems typically located in high-rise buildings in the United States?

In one or more enclosed stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a door locked from the stair side is activated by an automatic fire detection system?

It is deemed as openable from the stair side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the stair re-entry signs in high-rise buildings?

To indicate that re-entry is provided only during fire emergencies. Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for a central monitoring station in some large metropolitan areas?

It must obtain a license from the fire department with periodic renewal. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of arranging telephone communication lines in separate paths in a central monitoring station?

To ensure a single point of failure does not cause the second communication path to fail. Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having standardization of high-rise building fire alarm control panels?

It provides a consistent layout for firefighters. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the manual FACP operation for the firefighters' smoke control system?

To enable firefighters to control the smoke control system. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the fire alarm control panel in a high-rise building?

To transmit a fire alarm signal to a remote off-site monitoring central station. Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for stairway doors in high-rise buildings according to the New York City Building Code 2008?

They must be openable from the stair side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'Acknowledgement' button on a fire alarm control panel?

To acknowledge a fire alarm signal. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fire alarm control panel in a high-rise building during a fire situation?

To transmit a fire alarm signal to a remote off-site monitoring central station. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the research findings in fire and emergency services?

To enhance the effectiveness of fire operations and provide increased life safety Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the ventilation support group in the FDNY?

To set up portable equipment to pressurize stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the firefighters' smoke control system (FSCS) panels in a lobby fire control center?

To manually control the HVAC system Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern for building owners and managing agents in tall buildings?

Security and safety in and on their property Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the operational guide posted near the FCC?

To assist firefighters with manual operation of the smoke control system Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location of stairwell reentry doors?

In tall buildings within a multitenant occupancy Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of pressurizing stairwells in a fire emergency?

To make the protected premises safer for building occupants Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern for the Incident Commander (IC) in a tall building fire emergency?

Evacuation and the effective use of stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of NFPA 5000: Building Construction and Safety Code?

To establish standards for fire safety and emergency response Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of having an operational guide for the FSCS near the FCC?

It ensures the proper operation of the smoke control system Signup and view all the answers

On which floor levels must a reentry floor with an automatic fail-safe door lock be provided?

Every fourth floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the signage on the stair side of the door in a stairwell reentry system?

To indicate the location of the nearest door that permits reentry Signup and view all the answers

In a stairway reentry system, what happens when the locks on the secured doors are released?

The doors are openable from the occupancy side Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern addressed by the code changes following the MGM fire?

The need for reentry capability Signup and view all the answers

In an automatic elevator bank recall Phase 1 system, what happens when specific detection devices activate?

The elevators return to the terminal floor Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to clearly identify the location of the reentry floors in a building?

To ensure that occupants can find the reentry floors during a fire emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the firefighter's service key in an automatic elevator bank recall Phase 1 system?

To release the elevators for firefighter use Signup and view all the answers

What is a common challenge faced by the fire service during a fire emergency?

Difficulty in accessing the means of egress due to security measures Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the stairway reentry system in a building?

To allow stairwell doors to be openable from the occupancy side Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of the Phase 1 automatic elevator recall system during a fire emergency?

The elevators return to the terminal floor and are available for firefighter use Signup and view all the answers

What action should the central station take upon receipt of a supervisory signal that is not prearranged?

Communicate immediately with the persons designated by the subscriber and notify the fire department, law enforcement agency, or both when required by the authority having jurisdiction Signup and view all the answers

What type of signal is transmitted to the central station when a valve supervisory signal is received and the protected premises are not occupied?

Supervisory signal Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the standard emergency service interface in NFPA 72?

To provide a common design and operation for annunciators, information display systems, and controls for emergency service personnel Signup and view all the answers

What should the central station do upon receipt of a trouble signal or other signals pertaining solely to the matters of equipment maintenance of the alarm systems?

Communicate immediately with the persons designated by the subscriber Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action taken by the central station upon receipt of a supervisory signal that is not prearranged?

Communicate with the persons designated by the subscriber Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the remote station fire alarm system?

To transmit alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals from one or more protected premises to a remote supervision location Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the central station upon receipt of a supervisory signal?

To communicate with the persons designated by the subscriber Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the standard emergency service interface in NFPA 72?

To provide a common design and operation for annunciators, information display systems, and controls for emergency service personnel Signup and view all the answers

What action should the central station take upon receipt of a trouble signal?

Communicate immediately with the persons designated by the subscriber Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the remote supervision location in a remote station fire alarm system?

To take appropriate action upon receipt of alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Active Fire Protection Systems

In tall buildings, active fire protection systems (AFPS) play a crucial role in ensuring occupant safety by providing increased life safety measures for owners, occupants, visitors, contractors, and firefighters.
AFPS accomplish the following:
- Automatically trigger the fire alarm system (FAS) before the arrival of the fire department or emergency services.
- Activate the FAS and annunciate the detection of a fire condition at the fire alarm control panel (FACP) when it has the capability.
- Identify the location of the device that has activated and make an appropriate announcement over the FACP voice communication system.

Functions of Active Fire Protection Systems

AFPS will activate the following:
- Fire pump and sprinkler system waterflow alarm.
- FAS smoke control system connected to the HVAC system, shutting down the affected area and closing the smoke dampers.
- Stairwell pressurization; release stairwell reentry doors, and when connected to the FAS, the floor fire doors; recall the affected elevator bank cars in a Phase I mode when a lobby or elevator machine room smoke detector and sprinkler waterflow alarm is activated.
- The building's fire extinguishing system when present.

Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)

The FACP provides information on device activations and the status of different building systems, allowing firefighters to assess the situation and respond accordingly.
The FACP area is the preferred location for the fire command center (FCC) when it is located in or near the main lobby entrance.
The FACP notifies the fire and emergency services that a potential problem has developed at the building location and notifies occupants of the need to take action.

Challenges and Frustrations

Occupants may experience fear, uncertainty, and frustration when the fire alarm system is activated, including:
- Fear of the unknown and uncertainty concerning what they are experiencing.
- Trepidation at having to leave their belongings.
- Aggravation with other occupants leaving too slowly and impeding the escape efforts.
- Confusion from directions to do something that is counterintuitive to them.
Firefighters may experience challenges and frustrations, including:
- Delay as they go up the stairs due to overcrowding.
- Interacting with occupants coming down the stairs as firefighters try to get up the stairs while carrying heavy equipment.

Fire Command Center (FCC)

The FCC displays a fire alarm activation on the alarm panel, provides emergency voice communications to the occupants, and serves as an interior command post when circumstances allow.
The FCC may be posted by a competent fire and life safety director or be unattended until the fire department/brigade arrives.
The location of the FCC must be clearly indicated on the preincident fire plan.

Fire Alarm Activation System

A functional FACP that is online is the first line of defense as an early warning system, especially in a tall building environment.
Taking the building FACP system off-line for any period during normal business occupancy hours is not a viable solution for addressing problems with the system.
Unwarranted/unnecessary fire alarms may occur due to defects in the alarm or control panel, improper maintenance, or ordinary occurrences such as burnt microwave food or cigarette smoke.

Maintenance and Cleaning

The maintenance and cleaning frequency of the FACP system depends on the type of equipment and the ambient conditions.
An ambient tall building condition may dictate a six-month interval to clean the fire alarm devices (smoke, HVAC duct detector) rather than an annual cleaning.### High-Rise Buildings: Understanding the Vertical Challenges

Fire Alarm and Control Systems

Fire alarm systems in high-rise buildings are crucial for protecting life and property.
NFPA 5000: Building Construction and Safety Code, 2003, Section 55.2.5, requires a fire alarm and control system to actuate automatically and control functions to make the protected premises safer.
Stairwell or elevator shaft pressurization is one of the functions that can be actuated by the fire alarm panel.

Stairwell Pressurization

Stairwell pressurization is essential to ensure that stairwells are safe for occupants to evacuate during a fire.
NFPA 14: Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, limits the maximum airflow allowed into the stairwell to 30 pounds of force, to allow children and elderly occupants to exit.
Portable equipment can be used to achieve stairwell pressurization, and the FDNY has a unit dedicated to ventilation support.

Firefighters' Smoke Control System (FSCS)

FSCS is a system that allows firefighters to manually control the HVAC system to pressurize or exhaust the stairwell.
The system is typically located in the fire command center and may have different operational guides for different buildings.

Reentry Doors

Reentry doors in tall buildings are usually locked on the stairwell side to prevent unauthorized access.
However, these doors must be openable from the occupancy side to allow occupants to exit during a fire.
The stairway reentry system allows stairwell doors to be openable from the occupancy side but locked from the stairwell side.

Code Segments

NFPA 5000: Building Construction and Safety Code, 2003, Section 55.2.5, requires stairwell or elevator shaft pressurization to be actuated by the fire alarm panel.
NFPA 92: Standard for Smoke-Control Systems, 2021, provides guidelines for smoke control systems in buildings.
New York City Building Code 2008, Section 403.12, requires stairway doors to be openable from the stair side during a fire emergency.

Central Monitoring Station

A central monitoring station is a system that transmits fire alarm signals to a remote off-site monitoring center.
The alarm signal may be an alarm device activation, a supervisory signal, or a trouble signal.
The central monitoring station will notify the premises and the fire department if a signal is received.

Standardization of High-Rise Building Fire Alarm Control Panels

Each fire alarm manufacturer has its own system, which can be challenging for firefighters to operate.
Standardization of fire alarm control panels is necessary to ensure that firefighters can understand and operate the systems efficiently.

Standpipe/Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe systems are used to deliver a water supply for manual firefighting operations in tall buildings.
NFPA 14: Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, provides guidelines for the installation of standpipe systems.

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Test your knowledge of active fire protection systems in tall buildings, including fire alarm control panels, benefits, and evacuation procedures.