ASSIGNMENT

Assignment



Building Regulation Issues

Task 2 (M2)

Propose answers to two queries related to interpretation of the building regulations

As Building Information Modelling (BIM) becomes more commonly used by building design teams, usage of the model for code analysis will become more important. Currently, designers use manual or custom-developed methods to check code compliance of a building, but automatic code-compliance checking is coming. The software apparently is still in beta form and cannot be utilized on actual projects yet (Sherry, 2010, P 248).

Query 1: Fire Safety

Fire safety is a complex subject, which to avoid confusion is divided into the following areas: Means of Escape in the Event of Fire: Buildings should be designed so that occupants can escape from any part of the building to a place of safety without assistance. In dwellings, this is relatively straightforward and one would normally expect to see smoke detection, escape windows from habitable rooms above ground floor level etc. Where loft conversions are carried out on buildings of more than one storey, additional measures such as the provision of self-closing devices on doors opening onto the staircase and a half-hours fire protection between the loft rooms and the staircase are necessary.

Surface Spread of Flame: Surface finishes or coverings on walls should not promote the spread of fire in a building. This requirement is most critical on escape routes. In dwellings, this only relates to new work and then only to coverings such as timber cladding or carpet fixed to walls. Fire Resistance of Structure: The structure of buildings should resist the effects of fire including heat and smoke for a reasonable period of time. In dwellings traditional construction materials such as concrete, brickwork and plaster usually provide sufficient fire resistance. However, additional measures may be required where loft conversions are carried out and where ...