Fire and Life Safety Occupency

Fire Protection Requirements for Assembly Occupancy:

Assembly Occupancies

Fire and life safety requirements for assembly occupancies, such as theaters, auditoriums, and stadiums, must adhere to stringent standards

to ensure occupant safety. The Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC), NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), NFPA 5000 (Building

Construction and Safety Code), International Fire Code (IFC), Bangladesh Labor Law, and ILO guidelines provide comprehensive

frameworks for these requirements.

 

Key Requirements:

 

  1. Emergency Lighting:

    • Emergency lighting must be provided to illuminate exit paths, stairways, and exits during power failures.

    • According to NFPA 101, emergency lighting must activate within 10 seconds of power loss and operate for a minimum of 90 minutes.

    • BNBC mandates emergency lighting in all assembly spaces with a capacity exceeding 100 occupants.

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  2. Egress Signage:

    • Exit signs must be clearly visible, illuminated, and marked with the word "EXIT" or an approved symbol.

    • NFPA 101 requires photoluminescent or electrically illuminated signs with a minimum luminance of 5-foot candles.

    • Exit routes must be clearly marked and unobstructed, with directional signage provided where exits are not immediately visible.

  3. Fire Protection:

    • Assembly occupancies must have fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and, if required, automatic sprinkler systems as per NFPA 101 and BNBC.

    • IFC mandates fire-resistant construction materials and compartmentalization to prevent fire spread.

  4. Occupant Load and Egress Capacity:

    • BNBC and NFPA 101 specify maximum occupant loads based on floor area and seating arrangements.

    • Adequate exits must be provided, with a minimum of two exits for spaces accommodating 50 or more people.

  5. Compliance with Labor Laws:

    • Bangladesh Labor Law and ILO guidelines emphasize safe working conditions, including fire safety measures for employees in assembly occupancies.

  6. Regular Inspections and Maintenance:

    • Fire safety systems, including emergency lighting and exit signage, must be inspected and maintained regularly as per BNBC and NFPA standards.