Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering · 1979 · 16 citations · 0 references
EngineeringArchitectural EngineeringBuilding ScienceDesign OptimizationFire Protection EngineeringSafety EngineeringFire HazardsFire ModelingFire PreventionFire SafetyFire Safety EngineeringStructural Fire EngineeringBuilding Fire CodesBuilding Fire SafetyFire LoadFire Loss ModelingFire ResistanceFire Risk ModelingFire Safety Engineering DesignSafety Factor
A mathematical model is described that enables the evaluation of the expected fire cost and life losses for buildings. Optimum safety factors for fire loads are derived by minimizing the fire cost expectation, subject to a constraint on expected life losses. A sensitivity study shows the important variables that determine the optimum fire load safety factor. Results are compared with code requirements and suggestions are made for improving fire resistance design from the point of view of safety and cost.