Chapter 12. Special Structures and Design Features

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What height is typically defined as a high-rise building according to model building codes?

50 feet

75 feet (correct)

100 feet

60 feet

What special protection problems do increases in building height create for high-rise buildings?

Increased elevator speed

Reduced coordination of resources

Dependence on safety features of the building (correct)

Decreased occupancy and activities

What makes exterior access difficult for high-rise buildings beyond the reach of aerial equipment?

Limited number of occupants

Less coordination needed

Shorter building height

Inaccessibility to staging and fire floors (correct)

Why do modern high-rise buildings often lack operable windows?

To increase HVAC efficiency Signup and view all the answers

What innovation made high-rise buildings possible at the end of the 19th century?

Steel-frame construction Signup and view all the answers

In early high-rise construction, what did open stairwells and elevator shafts permit?

Vertical travel of smoke and fire Signup and view all the answers

Why do taller high-rise buildings with larger populations face challenges during evacuation under fire conditions?

More difficult and time-consuming evacuations Signup and view all the answers

Why does the fire department need assistance from the engineering staff during emergency operations in modern high-rise buildings?

To help with building operations Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect of fire protection in high-rise buildings according to the text?

Standpipes Signup and view all the answers

What was the main form of fire protection in early high-rise buildings?

Standpipe systems Signup and view all the answers

Which NFPA standard mandates the use of pressure-reducing valves for standpipe systems?

NFPA 14 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a pressure-reducing valve in a standpipe system?

To decrease water pressure Signup and view all the answers

Where are standpipe risers and hose valves typically located in buildings?

In stairwells Signup and view all the answers

Why are pressure-reducing valves necessary in standpipe systems?

To maintain consistent water pressure at different heights Signup and view all the answers

What function do automatic sprinklers serve in fire protection?

Suppress fires automatically Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for the use of standpipe systems in tall buildings?

To provide quick deployment of hoselines during firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

Why is preplanning essential for firefighters in buildings with partitions or rack storage?

To ensure the safety of firefighters and facilitate navigation Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended safety measure for firefighters entering areas with partitions or rack storage?

Enter with a hoseline or a rope and tagline system Signup and view all the answers

Why are modern elevators considered critical for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

To facilitate access to upper floors Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of modern codes related to elevator use for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

Introducing dedicated elevators for fire department use Signup and view all the answers

Why is careful decision making required when using elevators during a fire event?

To ensure firefighters remain below the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters be aware of when considering elevator use during an emergency?

The location of protected stairs in relation to the elevator Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters never use an elevator that has been exposed to water during a fire event?

Water may damage the elevator machinery Signup and view all the answers

When should firefighters consider using elevators during an emergency?

If the fire is below the 5th floor Signup and view all the answers

What type of water supply is required in high-rise buildings located in seismic zones?

Secondary on-site water supply in the form of a storage tank Signup and view all the answers

Since the mid-1970s, what systems have high-rise buildings been required to have?

Automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems Signup and view all the answers

What is one typical feature found in a fire command center in high-rise buildings?

Central/status panel for smoke management systems Signup and view all the answers

What is a means of vertical extension in a high-rise building mentioned in the text?

Exterior fire spread Signup and view all the answers

In high-rise buildings, what type of structures are required to be enclosed to prevent vertical fire and smoke spread?

Elevator shafts and stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What systems are typically monitored by the fire alarm system in high-rise buildings?

Waterflow switches and detection devices Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT required to be monitored through the fire alarm system in high-rise buildings?

Smoke detectors in individual residential units Signup and view all the answers

To prevent disorientation during a fire emergency, what must high-rise buildings have according to building codes?

Visible exit signs, emergency lighting, and fire safety plans Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the Phase I Operation of elevators in buildings?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which type of elevators are exempt from Phase I Operation requirements?

Freight elevators Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Phase I Operation during a fire?

To prevent civilian deaths in elevators during fires Signup and view all the answers

In what situation does Phase II Operation override Phase I Operation?

To allow firefighters to use elevators Signup and view all the answers

What poses challenges for firefighters in limited access buildings?

Obstructed emergency access openings and limited access for firefighting and evacuation Signup and view all the answers

What are the requirements for fire safety in underground buildings?

Emergency access openings and ventilation systems Signup and view all the answers

What are membrane structures constructed with and what do they use for shaping?

Thin, waterproof fabric; air pressure Signup and view all the answers

What are the fire safety requirements for covered malls?

Sprinklers, fire-resistive separations between stores, and smoke control systems Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining factor of a high-rise building according to model building codes?

Exceeding 80 feet in height Signup and view all the answers

Why are modern high-rise buildings often constructed without operable windows?

To ensure proper ventilation with HVAC systems Signup and view all the answers

What impact does an increase in building height have on the safety of occupants and firefighters?

Enhances safety features of the building itself Signup and view all the answers

Why were early high-rise buildings usually limited to residential or office use?

Limitations in building technology Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge faced by firefighters in high-rise buildings beyond the reach of aerial equipment?

Difficulty in accessing staging and fire floors Signup and view all the answers

Why do taller high-rise buildings with larger populations pose difficulties during evacuation under fire conditions?

More time-consuming evacuations Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters arrange to meet someone involved with the engineering staff during emergency operations in modern high-rise buildings?

For assistance with building operations Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial reason for firefighters to preplan the building layout in high-rise buildings with partitions or rack storage?

To locate the nearest protected stairs in relation to the elevator Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters always enter areas with partitions or rack storage with a hoseline or rope and tagline system?

To ensure safety and avoid disorientation Signup and view all the answers

When should firefighters consider using an elevator during an emergency in a high-rise building?

When evacuating occupants from below the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters be aware of when considering elevator use during an emergency in high-rise buildings?

The operation of actual local elevator systems Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary consideration for firefighters using elevators during high-rise building emergencies?

Determining the location of operable windows for ventilation Signup and view all the answers

Why are modern elevators considered vital for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

To provide direct access to all floors for firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge for firefighters responding to emergencies in buildings with partitions or rack storage?

Preventing disorientation caused by partitions Signup and view all the answers

Why do elevators in high-rise buildings require careful decision-making during fire events?

To avoid using elevators below ground level Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Phase I Operation of elevators in buildings?

To restrict elevator use during fires to prevent civilian deaths Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a standpipe system in high-rise buildings?

Facilitating rapid deployment of hoselines for firefighting Signup and view all the answers

Why is the pressure-reducing valve important in a standpipe system?

To reduce the amount of water pressure to protect firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What challenges do limited access buildings pose for firefighters according to the text?

Obstructed emergency access openings Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes membrane structures mentioned in the text?

Thin, waterproof fabric construction with air pressure shaping Signup and view all the answers

What has been the impact of automatic sprinklers on fire-related incidents?

Reduced the number of fire-related deaths and property damage Signup and view all the answers

What problem can arise with standpipe systems due to building height?

Variation in pressure due to building height Signup and view all the answers

Why are freight elevators exempt from Phase I Operation requirements?

As they are designed for carrying goods, not passengers Signup and view all the answers

What fire safety requirement is specific to covered malls according to the text?

Fire-resistive separations between stores Signup and view all the answers

Why are modern fire protection features often missing in older buildings?

Cost prohibitive to retrofit buildings Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of NFPA® 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems?

Ensure proper installation and maintenance of standpipe systems Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential feature of standpipe systems in tall buildings?

Pressure-reducing valves for water regulation Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor that determines the dependence on standpipes in high-rise buildings?

The height of the building Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of elevator operation is overridden by Phase II Operation in buildings?

Allowing firefighters to use elevators with a key switch Signup and view all the answers

What is a common challenge faced by firefighters in underground buildings as mentioned in the text?

Heat and smoke venting problems Signup and view all the answers

Why are periodic tests necessary for pressure-reducing valves in standpipe systems?

To verify proper maintenance and settings Signup and view all the answers

What type of water supply is required in high-rise buildings located in seismic zones?

Secondary on-site water supply in the form of a storage tank Signup and view all the answers

Which systems are required in high-rise buildings since the mid-1970s?

Automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems Signup and view all the answers

What do model building codes typically require in high-rise buildings for fire safety?

Voice alarm systems and monitored smoke detectors in residential units Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the fire command center in high-rise buildings?

Fire department two-way telephone system panel Signup and view all the answers

What is a means of vertical extension in a high-rise building according to model building codes?

Enclosed vertical shafts such as elevator shafts Signup and view all the answers

Why should high-rise buildings have clearly visible exit signs according to building codes?

To prevent disorientation during emergency evacuations Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT monitored through the fire alarm system in high-rise buildings?

Smoke detectors in individual residential units Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue related to high-density storage in buildings?

Obstructed penetration of water from overhead sprinklers Signup and view all the answers

How can vertical fire travel through racks be described?

A potential hazard associated with steel members of the racks Signup and view all the answers

What factor can negatively impact the effectiveness of ceiling-mounted sprinklers in buildings?

Obstructions from building elements Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the collapse of steel members of racks during a fire?

Affecting the stability of the entire structure Signup and view all the answers

How does obstructed penetration of water from overhead sprinklers impact fire safety?

Reduces the effectiveness of fire protection systems Signup and view all the answers

Chapter 12. Special Structures and Design Features

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Questions and Answers

What height is typically defined as a high-rise building according to model building codes?

What special protection problems do increases in building height create for high-rise buildings?

What makes exterior access difficult for high-rise buildings beyond the reach of aerial equipment?

Why do modern high-rise buildings often lack operable windows?

What innovation made high-rise buildings possible at the end of the 19th century?

In early high-rise construction, what did open stairwells and elevator shafts permit?

Why do taller high-rise buildings with larger populations face challenges during evacuation under fire conditions?

Why does the fire department need assistance from the engineering staff during emergency operations in modern high-rise buildings?

What is a crucial aspect of fire protection in high-rise buildings according to the text?

What was the main form of fire protection in early high-rise buildings?

Which NFPA standard mandates the use of pressure-reducing valves for standpipe systems?

What is the purpose of a pressure-reducing valve in a standpipe system?

Where are standpipe risers and hose valves typically located in buildings?

Why are pressure-reducing valves necessary in standpipe systems?

What function do automatic sprinklers serve in fire protection?

What is the main reason for the use of standpipe systems in tall buildings?

Why is preplanning essential for firefighters in buildings with partitions or rack storage?

What is a recommended safety measure for firefighters entering areas with partitions or rack storage?

Why are modern elevators considered critical for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

What is a key feature of modern codes related to elevator use for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

Why is careful decision making required when using elevators during a fire event?

What should firefighters be aware of when considering elevator use during an emergency?

Why should firefighters never use an elevator that has been exposed to water during a fire event?

When should firefighters consider using elevators during an emergency?

What type of water supply is required in high-rise buildings located in seismic zones?

Since the mid-1970s, what systems have high-rise buildings been required to have?

What is one typical feature found in a fire command center in high-rise buildings?

What is a means of vertical extension in a high-rise building mentioned in the text?

In high-rise buildings, what type of structures are required to be enclosed to prevent vertical fire and smoke spread?

What systems are typically monitored by the fire alarm system in high-rise buildings?

What is NOT required to be monitored through the fire alarm system in high-rise buildings?

To prevent disorientation during a fire emergency, what must high-rise buildings have according to building codes?

What triggers the Phase I Operation of elevators in buildings?

Which type of elevators are exempt from Phase I Operation requirements?

What is the purpose of Phase I Operation during a fire?

In what situation does Phase II Operation override Phase I Operation?

What poses challenges for firefighters in limited access buildings?

What are the requirements for fire safety in underground buildings?

What are membrane structures constructed with and what do they use for shaping?

What are the fire safety requirements for covered malls?

What is the defining factor of a high-rise building according to model building codes?

Why are modern high-rise buildings often constructed without operable windows?

What impact does an increase in building height have on the safety of occupants and firefighters?

Why were early high-rise buildings usually limited to residential or office use?

What is a challenge faced by firefighters in high-rise buildings beyond the reach of aerial equipment?

Why do taller high-rise buildings with larger populations pose difficulties during evacuation under fire conditions?

Why should firefighters arrange to meet someone involved with the engineering staff during emergency operations in modern high-rise buildings?

What is a crucial reason for firefighters to preplan the building layout in high-rise buildings with partitions or rack storage?

Why should firefighters always enter areas with partitions or rack storage with a hoseline or rope and tagline system?

When should firefighters consider using an elevator during an emergency in a high-rise building?

What should firefighters be aware of when considering elevator use during an emergency in high-rise buildings?

What is a primary consideration for firefighters using elevators during high-rise building emergencies?

Why are modern elevators considered vital for firefighters in high-rise buildings?

What is a significant challenge for firefighters responding to emergencies in buildings with partitions or rack storage?

Why do elevators in high-rise buildings require careful decision-making during fire events?

What is the purpose of Phase I Operation of elevators in buildings?

What is the primary function of a standpipe system in high-rise buildings?

Why is the pressure-reducing valve important in a standpipe system?

What challenges do limited access buildings pose for firefighters according to the text?

What distinguishes membrane structures mentioned in the text?

What has been the impact of automatic sprinklers on fire-related incidents?

What problem can arise with standpipe systems due to building height?

Why are freight elevators exempt from Phase I Operation requirements?

What fire safety requirement is specific to covered malls according to the text?

Why are modern fire protection features often missing in older buildings?

What is the purpose of NFPA® 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems?

What is an essential feature of standpipe systems in tall buildings?

What is a key factor that determines the dependence on standpipes in high-rise buildings?

What aspect of elevator operation is overridden by Phase II Operation in buildings?

What is a common challenge faced by firefighters in underground buildings as mentioned in the text?

Why are periodic tests necessary for pressure-reducing valves in standpipe systems?

What type of water supply is required in high-rise buildings located in seismic zones?

Which systems are required in high-rise buildings since the mid-1970s?

What do model building codes typically require in high-rise buildings for fire safety?

What is a key feature of the fire command center in high-rise buildings?

What is a means of vertical extension in a high-rise building according to model building codes?