Fire Technology – Fire Protection Equipment and Systems

• Identify and describe various types and uses of fire protection systems
• Describe the basic elements of a public water supply system as it relates to fire protection.

The purpose of this course is to increase the safety of building occupants and emergency responders by streamlining fire service interaction with building features and fire protection systems. The information in this manual will assist readers to better understand the needs of the fire service when they are called upon to operate in or near the built environment (figure 1.1). 

The codes and standards governing buildings and fire protection systems are well understood by designers. However, many portions of these codes and standards allow design variations or contain only general performance language. The resulting flexibility permits the selection of different design options. Some of these options may facilitate fire service operations better than others.

The particular needs and requirements of the fire service are typically not known thoroughly by persons not associated with these operations. This book discusses how the fire service interacts with different building features and it suggests methods for streamlining such interaction. To provide the most effective protection, fire service personnel should be considered as users of building features and fire protection systems. While far less frequent than mechanical events or other failures, fire can cause greater destruction in terms of property loss, disruption of operations, injury, and death.

Designers routinely consider the needs and comfort of building occupants when arranging a building’s layout and systems. Within the framework of codes and standards, design options may be exercised to benefit a particular owner, tenant, or user. For example, a building code would typically dictate the minimum number of lavatories and water fountains. However, the location, distribution, and types of such facilities are left to the designer in consultation with the client.

Readers of this document must understand its limitations. It is meant as an introduction to the systems and equipment that first responders will interact with. For example, the topic of emergency radio communications can be extensive; however, its treatment here is limited to the equipment in buildings that can support radio communications. Likewise, there are entire standards and books written about sprinkler, standpipe, and fire alarm design. However, this document covers only portions of those systems with which the fire service interacts and suggests design details that will help streamline or support fire service operations.

• OSHA 3256-07N Fire Service Features of Buildings and Fire Protection Systems. Authored by: Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Provided by: Department of Labor. Located at: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/3256-07N-2006-English.html#1purpose. License: Public Domain: No Known Copyright