FARHANA CHOWDHURY

“Pressurizing Techniques
to Manage Fire and
Smoke in High-Rise
Buildings
ARC 078 05934
INDEX

INTRODUCTION

PRESSURIZATION TECHNIQUES

EVIDENCE AND CASE STUDIES

ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES

CONCLUSION
 High-rise buildings, de ned as
those exceeding 75 feet or four
stories, pose unique challenges
during re emergencies due to
their height and structural
complexity. Key risks include the
rapid vertical spread of smoke
through stairwells, elevator
shafts, and HVAC systems,
leading to hazardous conditions
for occupants and re ghters.
A well-designed pressurization system ensures that
Pressurization systems are
stairwells, elevator shafts, and other critical pathways
integral to modern re safety remain free of smoke, facilitating safe evacuation.
strategies, providing smoke This assignment explores these techniques,

control and clear evacuation supported by sketches, case studies, and references
from the Bangladesh National Building Code
routes while supporting
(BNBC), NFPA standards, and other authoritative
re ghting operations. sources.
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 2. Pressurization Techniques

2.1 Stairwell Pressurization

Stairwell pressurization is a method of mechanically maintaining a higher air pressure within stairwells compared to adjacent spaces. This ensures
that smoke cannot in ltrate the escape routes, even if doors are opened. Fans installed at the roof or at various points within the stairwell provide
constant air ow, regulated to maintain a pressure differential of 12.5–50 Pascals (Pa), as per NFPA 92.

Illustration:

2.2 Elevator Shaft Pressurization

Elevator shafts often act as conduits for smoke during res. By pressurizing these shafts, smoke in ltration is prevented, allowing safe use by
re ghters and, in certain cases, by evacuating occupants. However, balancing pressure is critical to avoid interfering with elevator operations.
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 2. Pressurization Techniques

2.3 Compartmentalisation

Compartmentalisation involves using re-rated doors, walls, and oors to isolate smoke and re to speci c areas. Pressurization enhances this
system by ensuring that smoke does not bypass compartments through gaps or openings. This method is particularly effective in containing smoke
on the re oor, reducing its impact on evacuation routes and adjacent spaces.

2.4 Smoke Exhaust Systems

Mechanical exhaust systems complement pressurization by removing smoke from affected areas. These systems are typically installed on re oors
and are designed to create negative pressure, drawing smoke out while maintaining positive pressure in stairwells and other critical pathways.
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 3. Evidence and Case Studies

3.1 Standards and Codes

• BNBC: Section 3.9.5 outlines requirements for stairwell and elevator pressurization, including fan placement, pressure differential ranges, and
system reliability.

• NFPA 92: Provides detailed guidelines on the design and implementation of smoke control systems, emphasizing pressurization in high-rises.

3.2 Case Study: Grenfell Tower Fire, London (2017)

The Grenfell Tower re highlighted the catastrophic consequences of inadequate smoke management. Failure to isolate and exhaust smoke led to
rapid vertical spread, contributing to signi cant casualties. This incident underlined the necessity for robust pressurization and compartmentalization
systems.

3.3 Experimental Validation

Studies by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have shown that stairwell pressurization effectively prevents smoke
in ltration, even in scenarios with multiple door openings. Smoke control systems integrated with advanced sensors further enhance system
responsiveness during emergencies.
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4. Advantages and Challenges

4.1 Advantages

• Enhanced Safety: Clear evacuation routes for occupants and entry points for re ghters.

• Property Protection: Reduced smoke damage to building interiors and sensitive equipment.

• Regulatory Compliance: Meets international and local re safety codes, improving building safety ratings.

4.2 Challenges

• Cost: High installation and maintenance costs, especially in retro tted buildings.

• Operational Complexity: Requires precise calibration to maintain effective pressure without hindering door operation.

• Maintenance: Regular testing and servicing are essential to ensure reliability during emergencies.
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5. Conclusion

Pressurisation systems are indispensable in managing smoke and enhancing re safety in high-rise
buildings. By maintaining smoke-free evacuation routes and supporting compartmentalisation, these
systems protect lives and minimise property damage. Moving forward, advancements in IoT-based
monitoring and automated controls can further enhance the ef ciency of pressurisation techniques.
Adherence to standards such as BNBC and NFPA is crucial for achieving optimal safety outcomes.
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6. References

1. Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC): Comprehensive guidelines on re safety and pressurization requirements.

• BNBC Resources

2. NFPA 92: Standards for smoke control systems by the National Fire Protection Association.

• NFPA Standards

3. NIST Smoke Control Studies: Research on pressurization effectiveness.

• NIST Fire Research

4. Phoenix Fire Department: Practical applications in high-rise re management.

• [Link] fi
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THANK YOU