FI Notes

MECHANICAL
VENTILATION &
SMOKE CONTROL
SYSTEM
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally
Introduction
SCOPE
• MV SYSTEM SERVING ESSENTIAL
AREAS/ROOMS
• BASEMENT CARPARK SMOKE CONTROL

SYSTEM
• BASEMENT SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM
Scope of lesson
ESSENTIAL AREAS/ROOMS
• EXIT STAIRCASE & INTERNAL EXIT
PASSAGEWAY
• INTERNAL CORRIDOR IN HOTEL
• SMOKE STOP LOBBY
• FIRE PUMP ROOM
• GENERATOR ROOM
• FIRE COMMAND CENTRE
In general air-conditioning, mechanical ventilation and smoke control systems are to be designed in accordance with the provisions of
the Fire Safety Act 1993, Fire Safety (Building Fire Safety) Regulations 1994, Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings 1997 and
CP 13: 1999 subject to the provisions of Section 27 of the Act.
ESSENTIAL AREAS/ROOMS
Cont’d
• ROOMS INVOLVING USE OF

FLAMMABLE & EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCE
• KITCHEN
In general air-conditioning, mechanical ventilation and smoke control systems are to be designed in accordance with the provisions of
the Fire Safety Act 1993, Fire Safety (Building Fire Safety) Regulations 1994, Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings 1997 and
CP 13: 1999 subject to the provisions of Section 27 of the Act.
PRESSURISATION SYSTEM
FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
General
• For building HH> 24 m, any exit
staircases without provision for NV shall
be pressurized.
• For building with more than 4 basement
storeys, exit staircase connected to fire
fighting lobby in basement storeys shall
be pressurized.

For each exit staircase and internal exit passageway’s mechanical ventilation system :

installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the particular staircase and internal exit passageway;

system shall be of supply mode;

system shall be provided with standby emergency power supply;
EXIT STAIRCASE & INTERNAL
EXIT PASSAGEWAY
• Independent system of supply mode only
• Supply air drawn directly from external
& intake point 5m from exhaust openings
• Supply air shall be conveyed by vertical
duct & discharge at alternate floor
• Ducts runs outside the staircase shall be
enclosed in masonary construction & not
fitted with the fire damper
supply air shall be :

drawn directly from external with intake point not less than 5m from any exhaust discharge openings;

conveyed via a vertical duct extending throughout the staircase height and discharge from adequately distributed outlets (for exit
staircase serves more than 4 storeys);
AIR PRESSURISATION SYSTEM
supply air shall be :

drawn directly from external with intake point not less than 5m from any exhaust discharge openings;

conveyed via a vertical duct extending throughout the staircase height and discharge from adequately distributed outlets (for exit
staircase serves more than 4 storeys);
FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Exit staircase and internal exit passageway shall not be traversed by ducts or air-conditioning pipes serving other areas.
FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Pressurisation level
• Maintain a pressure differential =>50 Pa
between the pressure exit staircase & the
occupied area.
• Pressure gradient shall be such that the
pressure at the exit staircase shall always
be higher than the smoke-stop lobby
PRESSURISATION SYSTEM FOR EXIT
STAIRCASES
FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Pressurisation level (cont’d)
• Force required to open any door against

combined resistance of the pressuring air
and the auto door-closing mechanism = <
110 N at the door handle.
STAIRCASES
FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Engress Velocity
• Maintain an air flow of sufficient velocity
through open doors to prevent smoke entering
into the pressurised area.
• Flow velocity shall be attained when a
combination of 2 doors from any 2 successive
stys & the main discharge door are fully open.
• Magnitude of the velocity averaged over the
full area of each door opening => 1.0 m/s.
f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:
design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

the pressure gradient shall be such that the pressure at the exit staircase shall always be higher to the smoke stop lobby;
STAIRCASES

FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Basement
• For building comprising > 4 basement

storeys, exit staircase connected to fire
fighting lobbies in the basement shall be
pressurised to meet requirement of Fire
Code 97.

STAIRCASES

FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Distribution of Pressurising Air
• Even distribution of supply air injection pts.
• Pressurisation level shall be restored ASAP

when there is a significant change in pressure
diff. due to door opening etc.

FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Installation
• Supply air shall be drawn directly from

external & intake point shall be =>5m
from any exhaust openings.

FOR EXIT STAIRCASES
Installation (cont’d)
• The system shall be activated by the
building fire alarm system.
- Manual remote start/stop switches shall
be provided at FCC.
- Visual indication of the operation status
of the PS shall be provided.

PRESSURISATION OF INTERNAL
CORRIDORS IN HOTEL
If pressurisation is required, then :

Internal staircase pressure >
corridor pressure >
guest room pressure.
Where internal corridors in hotel are required to be pressurised, the pressure within such corridors shall be higher than that in the guest
rooms, the pressure within the internal exit staircase shall be higher than that of the corridors. For internal corridor’s mechanical
ventilation system in hotel:
CORRIDORS IN HOTEL
CORRIDORS IN HOTEL
CORRIDORS IN HOTEL
SMOKE-STOP & FIRE
FIGHTING LOBBY
MV system shall be exclusive to these lobbies and
meet the following :
• In supply mode only & provide 10 air-change/hr when
activated by building fire alarm,
• Supply air drawn directly from external & intake point
=> 5m from exhaust openings,
• Duct runs outside the staircase shall be enclosed or
constructed to give 1 hr fire rating,
• Remote manual start/stop to be provided at FCC.
For each smoke-stop lobby/fire fighting lobby’s mechanical ventilation on each storey:

a. installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the mechanical ventilation smoke-stop lobby/fire fighting lobby;

b. system shall be of supply mode;

c. system shall be provided with standby emergency power supply;

d. system capacity shall be not less than 10 air changes/hour for fire emergency operation;

SMOKE-STOP & FIRE FIGHTING LOBBY
For each smoke-stop lobby/fire fighting lobby’s mechanical ventilation on each storey:

a. installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the mechanical ventilation smoke-stop lobby/fire fighting lobby;

b. system shall be of supply mode;


d. system capacity shall be not less than 10 air changes/hour for fire emergency operation;

ENGINE DRIVEN FIRE PUMPROOM &
GENERATOR ROOM
MV system for the operation of the
equipment shall be independent

external & intake point shall be => 5m
from any exhaust openings. Exhaust air
shall be discharge directly to external &
=> 5m from any intake openings.
For each fire pump room/generator room/fire command centre’s mechanical ventilation system on each storey:

a. installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the particular room;
ENGINE DRIVEN FIRE PUMPROOM &
GENERATOR ROOM
• MV system for the operation of the equipment
shall be independent (cont’d)
• Ducts runs outside the room housing the
equipment shall be enclosed/constructed to give
at least 2 hr fire resistance both internally and
externally.
• No fire damper is allowed in the supply or
exhaust duct.
• Ducts serving other areas shall not pass
For each fire pump room/generator room/fire command centre’s mechanical ventilation system on each storey:

a. installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the particular room;
FIRE COMMAND CENTRE
• ACMV system shall be independent

external & intake point shall be => 5m
from any exhaust openings. Exhaust air
shall be discharge directly to external &
=> 5m from any intake openings.
system shall consist of supply and exhaust mode;


d. supply air shall be drawn directly from external with intake point not less than 5m from any exhaust discharge openings;

e. exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the external with exhaust discharge point not less that 5m from any intake
openings;

FIRE COMMAND CENTRE
• Ducts run outside the FCC shall be
enclosed / constructed to give min. the
same fire rating of the FCC or the room
they traverse, whichever is higher.
• No fire damper is allowed in the supply
or exhaust duct.
through the FCC.



openings;

FIRE PUMP ROOM / GENERATOR ROOM /
FIRE COMMAND CENTRE



openings;

FIRE PUMP ROOM / GENERATOR ROOM /
FIRE COMMAND CENTRE



openings;

ROOMS INVOLVING USE OF FLAMMABLE
& EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCE
• The MV system shall be independent
• The MV system shall be supply &

exhaust and provide 20 air change/hr.

• Exhaust air shall be discharge directly to
external & => 5m from any intake openings.
• Ducts run outside the room shall be enclosed /
constructed to give min. the same fire rating of
the room they serve or the room they traverse,
whichever is higher.
• No fire damper is allowed in the supply or
exhaust duct.
through the rooms


KITCHEN
• Hood & exhaust duct to be => 500mm
from combustible materials
• Exhaust directly to external & => 5m
from any air intakes
• Fire rate exhaust duct running outside
the kitchen
• No fire damper is fitted in kitchen
exhaust duct.
For the mechanical exhaust system of the cooking area in a kitchen:

a. installation shall be an independent system exclusive to the cooking area of each particular kitchen;
KITCHEN

KITCHEN

KITCHEN

KITCHEN
exhaust shall be discharged directly to the external with exhaust discharge point not less than 5m from any air intake openings;

MECHANICAL SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
FOR BASEMENT CAR PARK AREAS
For basement car park > 1,900 q m
• Smoke purging system having 9 air change/hr

• Activated by building alarm system
• Remote manual start-stop at FCC
• Heavy gauge duct (1.2 mm)
• Exhaust fan rating : 250 Degree Celsius @ 2 hrs.
• Secondary source of power supply
For each basement carpark’s (total floor area exceeding 1900m²) smoke purging system:

a. system shall be of supply and exhaust modes;

b. system shall be provided with standby emergency power supply;

c. supply shall be of not less than 9 air-changes/hour purging rate for emergency operation;
SMOKE PURGING SYSTEM FOR
BASEMENT CARPARK



MECHANICAL SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
FOR BASEMENT OCCUPANCIES
(OTHER THAN CAR PARK AREAS)
Engineered Smoke Control System
Design standards : BR 186 & BR 258
• Fire sizes & smoke layer ht
• Smoke reservoir sizes
• Smoke mass flow rate & layer temp
• Replacement air
• Activation/control
• Fan & power supply
• Ductwork, etc



Smoke Layer Height &
Layer Temperature
For each basement (total floor area exceeding 1900m²) smoke control system:

a. system may be in the form of natural ventilator, vent duct or mechanical extraction;

b. when mechanical extraction is required:

i. installation shall be independent system;

ii. system shall be provided with standby emergency power supply;
Smoke Layer




Smoke Reservoir




Smoke Reservoir
mode of ventilation of the system shall be:

a. automatically by the detectors provided at the area served;
b. by a remote manual switch available to fireman at the fire command centre;

c. provided with visual indication of the operation of the system.
Smoke Reservoir


Smoke Reservoir


Replacement Air


Exhaust Fan


OTHER OCCUPANCY AREAS
Smoke detectors shall be provided at return air

stream immediately adjacent to :
• Air Handling Units (AHUs) serving more than

one storey or compartment
• A single unit in excess of 15 000m³/hr
• Any AHU as may be required by the relevant
authority
Fire dampers are to be provided at all non-smoke control duct penetrations of:

a. compartment walls;
b. compartment floors;
c. protected shaft walls.

Smoke detectors shall be provided at return air stream immediately adjacent to:
Air Handling Units (AHUs)


Air Handling Units (AHUs)


Means of Escape
Cpt Lau Heng Hui

Senior Instructing officer
FSITC CDA
Introduce the topic

Introduction
 How we escape?
 Corridor/passageway/
staircase
 Distance to travel
 Explain the requirements
of means of escape
The provisions of this presentation shall serve to express the

intentions for determining the design, construction, protection, location,
arrangement and maintenance of exit facilities to provide safe means of
escape for occupants from all buildings hereafter erected, altered or
changed in occupancy.
Objectives
 To know
 types of Travel distance
 the calculation of OL Vs EC
 types of exit facilities
Explain the objectives of the presentation

DETERMINATION OF EXIT
REQUIREMENTS
Factors affecting the exit requirement are
as follows:
•Type of occupancy (purpose group)
•Floor area
•Occupant Load (OL)
•Capacity of an exit (EC)
•Travel distance to an exit
The determination of exit requirements for a building shall be based upon

the type of use or occupancy of the building, the occupant load, the floor
area, the travel distance to an exit and the capacity of exits
Purpose groups
 PG I Small Residential (eg. bungalow, semi-d,

terrace)
 PG II Other Residential (residential other
than PG I)
 PG III Institution
 PG IV Office
 PG V Shop
 PG VI Factory
 PG VII Places of public resort
 PG VIII Storage
Explain the 8 different purpose groups

OL Vs EC
 occupant load is referring to the pre-
determined max. no ppl expected to be
accommodated by a room/space or a
building.
 exit capacity is referring to the pre-
determined max. no of ppl that allow
the use of the exit staircases or exit
doors.
The determination of exit requirements for a building shall be based upon

the type of use or occupancy of the building, the occupant load, the floor
area, the travel distance to an exit and the capacity of exits
What is multiple occupancy?
•It is where different types of occupant

(eg office, shops, places of public resorts etc),
that are co-located in a premises
(ie floor/building)
•the greatest number of occupants shall

form the basis for determining the exit
requirements.
Where a building or storey of a building or a part of a building is used for

multiple purposes involving different activities at different times, that
purpose or use involving the greatest number of occupants shall form the
basis for determining the exit requirements.
Mixed Occupancy in a Building Clause 2.2.2
If the multi purpose hall is being put at the top the top flr then staircase 2 have to be extended up.
Travel Distance
 What is one way travel & two way
travel?
 What is Dead end?
 Differences if building is with sprinkler
protection?
 How to measure travel distance?
 Maximum exit stair width
 Remoteness of exit door/stair
The maximum travel distance for the respective types of occupancies shall
be not greater than as laid down in Table 2.2A of Fire Code
(a) In the case of a floor area designed with minimum two exits, the
maximum travel distance as given in Table 2.2A shall be applicable.
The maximum travel distance starting from the most remote point in
any occupied space to the nearest exit, shall not exceed the limits
specified in Table 2.2A
What is travel distance?
It is an actual distance that required to travel

from the most remote point in any room or space
to the edge of a door opening directly to:
A. an exit staircase, or
B. an exit passageway, or
C. an open exterior space.
The distance required to be traversed from the most remote point in

any room or space to the edge of a door opening directly to –
an exit staircase, or
an exit passageway, or
an open exterior space,
One Way Travel
 It is a “common path” in a floor space

that is arranged such that occupants
within that space are able to travel in
only one direction to reach any of the
exits or to reach the splitting point
where they have the choice of two or
more routes of travel to remote exits.
A one-way travel or “common path” exists if a floor

space is arranged or provided with partitioning works
such that occupants within that space are able to travel in
only one direction to reach any of the exits or to reach
the splitting point where they have the choice of two or
more routes of travel to remote exits.
Travel Distance
In a large floor area sub-divided into rooms, corridors and so forth,

the travel distance requirements of the foregoing paragraphs of this
clause shall be deemed to be satisfied if the `direct distance' does
not exceed two-third of the maximum travel distance permitted
under Table 2.2A of Fire Code
Direct Distance
DN
DN
In a large floor area sub-divided into rooms, corridors and so forth,

the travel distance requirements of the foregoing paragraphs of this
clause shall be deemed to be satisfied if the `direct distance' does
not exceed two-third of the maximum travel distance permitted
under Table 2.2A,
What is non-simultaneous occupancy?
• It is a place where serve other rooms
and spaces on the same storey but are not
occupied at the same time as such other
rooms or spaces, this are not included in OL
calculations.
• Examples are toilets, locker rooms,

storage rooms, staff canteens, lobbies,
corridors and similar rooms and spaces
Areas that are normally not occupied simultaneously. For example, an office worker is not expected to be at his office and the toilet at the same time. The toilet is
regarded as non simultaneous occupancy.
Non-simultaneous occupancy Clause 2.2.4
The floor areas of toilets, locker rooms, storage rooms, lobbies, corridors
and similar rooms and spaces that serve other rooms and spaces on the
same storey but are not occupied at the same time as such other rooms or
spaces, may be omitted from the occupant load calculations of that storey
of the building on which they are located.
OL And EC
Criteria
 EC > OL (determine the number of exit
staircase, width of the exit door and
staircase)
 Travel Distance (determine the required
number and location of the exit
staircase)
The capacity of exits, exit staircases, exit passageways, corridors, exit

doors and other exit facilities shall be measured in units of width of half
of a metre. The number of persons per unit of width shall be determined
by the type of occupancy and type of exit as listed under Table 2.2A. In
the determination of each exit width, fractions of a unit width less than
250 mm shall not be credited. Where 250 mm or more are added to one
or more full units, half of a unit of width shall be credited.
Capacity of exits
and exit facilities
Where a room or space is required to be provided with two exits, each
exit shall be of sufficient width to accommodate not less than half the
total occupant load.
Occupancy Load (OL) Calculation
Floor Area – non-simultaneous usage

OL =Floor Area the OL Density (or
factor) Fig A
eg. Office
900(m2) / 10(m2/person)= 90
persons
eg. Meeting room
900(m
Building
2) / 1.5(m2/person)= 600
Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally
What is the meaning of 10sqm/person?

Schedule 4
Where to find this?

Fire Code, Chap 1
Fig A
Available in Chapter 1 of Fire Code

Available from Fire Code, Chap2 Table 2.2
Refer to your course notes if letter is too small

Table 2.2A of Fire Code

Per unit of width is 0.5m.

Staircase width
Corridor’s door
width
Normally the corridor’s door width is the limiting factor.

Exit Capacity (EC) Calculation
 Determined by the width of door/corridor and
exit staircase (always round down)
 1 unit = 500mm
 1/2 unit = 250mm
 eg. Exit Door Width = 850mm = 1.5 units

EC = 1.5 units x 80
= 120 persons
 eg. Exit Staircase Width = 1250mm = 2.5
units
EC = 2.5 units x 60
= 150 persons
The number shall always be rounded off to the next lower unit width. 2.2.5 Capacity of exits and exit facilities
The capacity of exits, exit staircases, exit passageways, corridors, exit doors and other exit facilities shall be measured in units of width of one half of a
metre. The type of occupancy and type of exit as listed under Table 2.2A shall determine the number of persons per unit of width. In the determination of
each exit width, fractions of a unit width less than 250 mm shall not be credited. Where 250 mm or more are added to one or more full units, half of a unit of
width shall be credited.
Where a room or space is required to be provided with two exits, each exit shall be of sufficient width to accommodate not less than one half the total
occupant load.
Table 2.2A: Determination of travel
distance and exit capacity Clause 2.2.6
What is travel distance?

It is an actual distance that required to travel from the most remote point in any room or space to the edge of a door opening directly to:
an exit staircase, or
an exit passageway, or
an open exterior space.
What is Direct Distance?

It is a distance measured disregarding/ignoring the furniture or partition.
What is one way travel?

It is where only one direction is available, for eg HDB flat is one way until you reach corridor. However, for those premises only have one staircase (eg HDB point
blk) it means one way travel all the way till ground floor. Otherwise, when you reach corridor it should be 2 way escape
This is how you can organise your premises OL

This is how you can organise your premises EC

Declare OL and EC. EC shall be equal to or bigger than OL for compliance.

Capacity of exits and exit facilities Clause 2.2.5
Single staircase conservation shophouses, office less than 4 sty with OL less than 50 each floor. Those places that need FSM will need to stairs
Reasons: Fire at one of the Staircase or
obstructed
Clause 2.2.5
Uneven EC of staircase is not acceptable.

Measurement of Most remote
Point Clause 2.2.6 (c)
The most remote point from which the travel distance is measured shall be taken as being 400 mm from
the enclosure walls of the room or space.
Clause 2.2.6 (f)
Area of refuge
When a floor area has access to Area of Refuge in compliance with

following requirements in this Clause, the occupant load for which vertical
exits are to be accounted for the floor area may be reduced to half when
one Area of Refuge is provided and to one-third when two or more Areas
of Refuge are provided.
Measurement of Travel Distance
Clause 2.2.6(g)
The maximum travel distance for the respective types of occupancies shall
be not greater than as laid down in Table 2.2A of Fire Code.
Clause 2.2.7
See Table 2.2A
Measurement of clear width
Minimum width
(corridor)
Corridor width minimum is stated in Table 2.2A of Fire Code.

Minimum width(door) Clause 2.2.7
No exit, exit staircase or other exit facilities shall be narrower than

the minimum width requirement as specified under Table 2.2A.
The minimum clear width of an exit door opening shall be not less
than 850 mm.
(b) Exit access doors serving a room with an occupant load of not more
than 2 persons shall not be less than 610mm in clear width.
(c) A single leaf swing door along the means of egress shall not exceed
1250mm in clear width
Maximum Width Clause 2.2.8
The maximum width of exit staircases shall be not more than 2000 mm.
Where staircases exceed 2000 mm in width, handrails shall be used to
divide the staircase into sections of not less than 1000 mm of width or
more than 2000 mm of width.
Clause 2.2.8
Provision of Handrails
The maximum width of exit staircases shall be not more than 2000 mm.
Where staircases exceed 2000 mm in width, handrails shall be used to
divide the staircase into sections of not less than 1000 mm of width or
more than 2000 mm of width.
EXIT
Maximum width of exit staircases
• shall be not more than 2000mman

• any part of excess width of > 2000mm shall
not be taken into account for EC calculation
2.2.8Maximum width of exit staircases shall be not more than 2000mm. Where staircases exceed 2000mm in width, handrails shall be used to divide the staircase into
sections of not less than 1000mm of width or more than 2000mm of width.For the purpose of determining the exit capacity of a staircase that is wider than 2000mm
that forms part of the required means of escape from any storey of the building, that part of its width in excess of 2000mm shall not be taken into account.
Minimum two exits facilities
Clause 2.2.10
Number of exits is determined by OL and travel distance. Type of occupancy is also a consideration.
In-correct arrangement of exits
Example 1 Clause 2.2.10
Tenant C has to pass through Tenant D.
Tenant B has to pass through Tenant D.

SMOKE FREE APPROACH
Building exceeding 4 storey
External approach Smoke stop lobby
Entry at every storey level to an exit staircase of any building or part of a

building of more than four storeys above ground level shall be through:
(a)an external exit passageway or external corridor.
(b) a lobby that is separated from the adjoining areas of the building by
a wall having a fire resistance of at least 1 hour.
Clause 2.2.13
The openings for

natural lighting and ventilation to the corridor shall be so located
that they face and open upon:
(i) the external space; or

(ii) a street, service road or other public space which is open to
the sky; or
(iii) an air-well which opens vertically to the sky and having a
min. width of 6m and a superficial plan area of not less
than 93m², except that for residential occupancy, the
external corridors for smoke free approach shall comply
with the requirements of cl.2.4.8 and 2.4.9, and in the case
of workers’ dormitories and hotel bedrooms being served
by external corridors, such corridors shall comply with
cl.2.9.4 and cl.2.7.2 respectively;
External approach Clause 2.2.13
(external exit passageway)
External exit passageway:

(i) an external exit passageway can be used as a required exit in
lieu of an internal exit passageway.
External exit passageway
Clause 2.2.13
The external wall

between the exit passageway and the rest of the floor space
can have ventilation openings of non-combustible
construction, fixed at or above a level 1.8m, measured from
the finished floor level of the passageway to the sill level of
the openings and such ventilation openings shall be located
not less than 3.0 m from any opening of an exit staircase.
External exit passageway
an external exit passageway may be roofed over provided the

depth of the roofed over portion shall not exceed 3m to
avoid smoke logging
When do we allow single
staircase?
1. For office in shop/factory/warehouse usage only
2. Not more than 4 storey
3. Gross floor area (GFA) not more than 200m2
4. Habitable Height < 15m
5. Non-combustible construction
6. Comply with travel distance
7. Access from fire engine access to building are
complied with.
Clause 2.6.1 of Fire Code explains this provision of 1 single exit staircase.
When is smoke stop lobby
needed?
Building more than 4 storeys
Entry at every storey level to an exit staircase of any building or part of a

building of more than four storeys above ground level.
Features of smoke‑stop lobby
1. Wall have at least 1 hour.
2. Exit door shall have least half an hour fitted with
automatic self‑closing device
3. The floor area of a smoke‑stop lobby shall be not
less than 3m².
4. permanent fixed ventilation openings to external >
15% of floor area of the lobby
5. Opening < 9m from any part of the lobby
6. Emergency to provide 10 air change, normal is 4
air change.
Clause 2.2.13 (b) explains in detail the requirement of SSL.

Features of
Fire fighting lobby
1 Wall shall at least be 1 hour fire resistance
2 Door shall have at least have half an hour fitted
with automatic self-closing device.
3 Area shall at least be 6 m2, no dimension shall be
smaller than 2m
4 Floor gradient shall slope from lift towards lobby
door 1:200.
5 Emergency to provide 10 air change, normal is 4 air
change.
Clause 2.2.13 (b) explains in detail the requirement of FFL. FFL requirements are more stringent than the normal SSLs.
Clause 2.2.13
Smoke stop lobby (Fixed Ventilation Openings)
Features of fire fighting lobby

Smoke stop lobby (Mechanical Ventilation)
Clause 2.2.13
Staircase - 4 air change
SSL – 10 air change

Smoke Stop lobby Clause 2.2.14
Basement Situation (> 4 levels)
Smoke-stop lobbies in basement occupancies shall be required to

comply with the relevant provisions under Cl. 2.2.13(b) and shall be
mechanically ventilated to comply with the requirements in Chapter
7.
Conditions for not having
Smoke Stop Lobby
Building lobby shall be:
 less than 4 storey and fitted with fire
door
 other than purposes group III & VII
 other than linking to a pressurized
internal exit staircase that exceeded
24m
 other than lobby that linked to a fire lift.
The omission of smoke stop lobby to exit staircases shall not

be allowed under the following situations : -
(a) where the building exceeds 4 storeys and belongs to

Purpose Group III and VII;
(b) where the internal exit staircase, which is provided with
pressurization, exceeds the habitable height of 24m;
(c) where the exit staircase is designated as fire fighting
staircase adjacent to a fire lift as required in Chapter 6.
Clause 2.3
EXIT FACILITIES
 Internal exit passageway
 External exit
passageway
 Internal exit staircase
 External exit staircase
Describe the different exit discharge routes

Internal Exit Passageway
Clause 2.3.2 (b)
the enclosure walls of an exit passageway shall have not more

than two exit doors opening into the exit passageway
Clause 2.3.2(c)
External Exit Passageway
See Clause 2.3.2 of Fire Code for detailed explanation.

Internal Staircase & SSL Clause 2.3.3(a)
A pressurized internal staircase that has no means of natural ventilation.

External Staircase Clause 2.3.3 (b)
External staircase that is naturally ventilated.

Clause 2.3.7
Under what condition can we allow the use of spiral staircase.
An external unenclosed staircase

built of non‑combustible materials
having a tread length of at least 750 mm
having an OL not exceeding 25 persons at any floor
not serve more than 10 m habitable height buildings.
Pictorial illustration of spiral staircase

Exit Ramp Clause 2.3.8
Internal and external exit ramps may be used as exits in lieu of internal and
external exit staircases subject to compliance to the applicable
requirements of Cl. 2.3.3. and to the following:
(a) The slope of such exit ramps shall not be steeper than 1 in 10, and
(b) Exit ramps shall be straight with changes in direction being made at
level platforms or landings only, except that exit ramps having a
slope not greater than 1 in 12 at any place may be curved
Door swing not impede the egress
Door swing shall not impede progress of occupants

Q&A
Invite any questions

RECAP
 Purposes group
 OL VS EC
 Travel distance
 Exit
 Smoke stop lobby
Recap and summary

Thank &
You
Finish of presentation.
Introduction
To
Fire Code
CPT Lau Heng Hui
Senior Instructing Officer
FSITC,•CDA
Building Capacity Enhancing Capabilities • Globally
Fire Code stands for Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings. There are although 6 editions so far. The first edition was issued by PWD in 1974 after the
Robinson Fire. The second edition was issued in 1982 by Building Construction Authority. The Fire Safety Bureau was formed in Dec 85 and the first code published
by the Bureau was I 1991. It was a small pink book. Basically the code follow the British Code and Australia Code.
Scope
Introduction
Content of fire Code
Conclusion
Scope of presentation
Introduction
Fire Code
- Code of Practice for Fire
Precautions in Buildings
- 1974, 1982, 1991, 1997, 2002, 2007
Other references
- Codes of Practice
- Standards
Fire Code stands for Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings. There are although 6 editions so far. The first edition was issued by PWD in 1974 after the
Robinson Fire. The second edition was issued in 1982 by Building Construction Authority. The Fire Safety Bureau was formed in Dec 85 and the first code published
by the Bureau was I 1991. It was a small pink book. Basically the code follow the British Code and Australia Code.
 9 Chapters
 General & Definition
Fire Code
 Means of Escape
 Structural Fire Precautions
 Site Planning & External Fire Fighting Provision
 Electrical Power Supplies
 Fire Fighting Systems
 Mechanical Ventilation and Smoke Control System
 Other Systems
 Fire Safety Report
To explain that they are 9 chapters in the Code and go through briefly the content of each chapter. The 9 chapters are as follow:
General & Definition

Means of Escape
Structural Fire Precautions
Site Planning & External Fire Fighting Provision
Electrical Power Supplies
Fire Fighting Systems
Mechanical Ventilation and Smoke Control System
Other Systems
Fire Safety Report
Chapter 1 : General & Definitions
General
- Stipulates other fire safety requirements, eg
- Conservation guidelines
- Standard for Fire Safety in Rapid Transit
System
Definitions
- Definitions of terms, eg
- Basement
- Deadend/travel distance
- Exit passageway, etc
Others
- Purpose Group Table
- Schedule
Chapter 1: General and Definitions
Under the heading of general, it lists the requirements for other fire safety requirements, such as conservation guidelines, Standard for Fire Safety in Rapid Transit
System, etc. All these requirements are stipulated in the Annexes of the Fire Code. QP can design their buildings by following the requirements according to the
guidelines stipulated.
Under Definitions, the code provides the definitions of the terms used in the fire code, such as basement, dead/travel distance, exit passageway, etc
In addition, under chapter 1 table 1.2 A, it also states the purpose group of the buildings. Under schedule, it provide the QP occupant load factors for the calculation of
occupant load for buildings.
Chapter 2
Means of Escape
Chapter 2: Means of escape
To explain what is means of escape

A continuous and unobstructed way of travel from any point in a building or structure to a public way consisting of three separate and distinct parts:
- The exit access
- The exit
- The exit discharge
Illustrate it with a sketch
Explain that under Part I, some of the requirements that the QP needs to take note are travel distance, smoke free approach to exit staircase.
For Part II, the exit , explain the exit refers to door opens to external at ground floor and exit staircase (internal and exit staircase). To explain what is the different between internal and external exit staircase
Part III refers to the discharge of exit staircase. Explain the discharge requirements, such that it must discharge directly to external except for sprinkler buildings.
Means of Escape
A continuous and unobstructed way of travel from any

point in a building or structure to a public way consisting
of three separate and distinct parts:
- The exit access
- The exit

- The exit access
- The exit
Means of Escape
Part II
The Exit
Part I
Part III The Exit Access
The Exit Discharge

- The exit access
- The exit
Part I
- Travel distance
- Smoke free approach to exit staircase
Part II
- Exit
- Internal /External exit staircase
- Door to external
Part III
- Discharge of exit staircase

- The exit access
- The exit
Chapter 3
Structural Fire Precautions
Chapter 3: Structural fire precautions
This chapters focuses on the structure requirements of buildings. It covers the requirements for compartmentation, the required fire resistance rating, the
setback distance arising fro unprotected opening and the material for construction. Under material for construction, emphasize that the use of plastic material is not
allowed. The lesson also covers the flame spread requirements along the surface of building in accordance with Table 3.13 A & B.
Chapter 3
- Compartmentation
- Fire resistance rating
- Setback distance for unprotected Opening
- Material for construction
COMPARTMENT WALL
Fire-rated barrier Performance -

- Non-combustibility test
- Fire resistance test
Compartment wall
Ceiling
Setback distance for unprotected opening
Table 3.13A
Purpose group of Classification of finishes to walls and ceiling relating to flame spread
building
Non-sprinkler protected building Sprinkler protected building
Room, Circulation Smoke- Exit staircase Room, Circulation Smoke-stop/ Exit staircase &
compar space stop /fire & exit compartment space fire fighting exit
I (Small No
t-ment 0 0
fighting N
passageway No control No control 2
lobby 0
passageway
residential) control lobby
II (Other No 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
residential) control
III (Institutional) 1 0 0 N 3* 3* 2 0
IV ( Office) 1 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
V (Shop) 1 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
VI (Factory) 1 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
VII (Place of 1 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
public resort)
VIII (Storage) 1 0 0 N No control No control 2 0
N Non-combustible to comply with BS 476 Pt 4.
3* Applies to Detention facilities and Health-care, including hospital, old-aged homes, nursing homes for mentally or
physically disabled patients.
N/A Not Applicable
Table 3.13B
Purpose group of Material construction (Homogenous)*

building
Non-sprinkler protected building Sprinkler protected building
Internal non-load Circulation Roof covering, Internal non-load Circulation Roof covering,
bearing wall and spaces, e.g. including bearing wall and spaces, e.g. including
I (Small residential) ceiling
Nowithin room,
control common
N supports
1 ceiling
Nowithin
controlroom, common corridor,
No control supports
No control
compartment corridor, compartment passageway, etc
II (Other residential) No control passageway,
N etc 1 No control No control No control
III (Institutional) 0 N 1 3** 3** 3**
IV (Office) 0 N 1 No control No control No control
V (Shop) 0 N 1 No control No control No control
VI (Factory) 0 N 1 No control No control No control
VII (Place of public 0 N 1 No control No control No control

resort)
VIII (Storage) 0 N 1 No control No control No control
* Refer to the entire construction of the element.
0/1/3 The tests of BS 476 Pt 6 and/or Pt 7 shall be conducted with air gap
** Applies to Detention facilities and health-care, including hospital, nursing homes for handicapped, disabled,
aged or persons with mental and/or mobility impairment.
N Non-combustible, including limited combustibility.

Use of Plastic Material
3.15.12 (a)
Composite panels which consist of plastic core shall not be
used either for the construction of internal non-load bearing
walls, ceilings, external walls or as cladding to external walls
of all buildings unless prior approval has been obtained from
the Relevant Authority.
3.15.14
Walls, ceilings, roof covering and finishes shall not contain
any plastic material.
Chapter 4
Site Planning & External
Fire Fighting Provisions
Chapter 4: Site planning and external fire fighting provisions.
This chapter covers the requirements to be provided at the external of building for the purpose of conducting fire fighting and rescue operations. That
includes the non-obstruction of access from the fire engine accessway/access road, the provision of fire access panel and the requirements on the provision of private
hydrant.
Site Planning – Site access for fire
Apparatus
- Adequate driveway width,

turning radii and parking
space on firm, level
surface for fire apparatus
hydrant.
hydrant.
Fire Access Panel
1000mm
150mm
Orange/red
accessway
850mm
Fire Access Panel
accessway
(Eg. Window)
hydrant.
Site Planning – provision of
hydrants
hydrant.
Chapter 5
Electrical Power Supplies
- Installation
- Primary & secondary supplies
Chapter 5: Electrical power supplies
This chapter covers the CPs that have to refer to the installation of power supplies and primary and secondary supplies.
Chapter 6
Fire Fighting Systems
Chapter 6: Fire fighting system
To explain to the trainees what are the type of fire protected system in building. QP needs to make refer to Table 6.3A of the fire code. In addition, what
are the types of fire fighting provisions in buildings. For the provision of water mist system to replace the sprinkler, explain the trainees the concern before installation.
Trainees need to note that installation of water mist system must go through prototype test.
Fire Protection System
- Manual alarm system
- Automatic Detectors
- Sprinkler system
- Water mist system
Fire Fighting Provision
- Dry/wet riser
- Hosereel ,
In general
Manual alarm
-Building < 4 storey
-Building with auto alarm
-Building with sprinkler
Auto alarm
-Buildings > 4 storey
Sprinkler
->24m
-Basement
-Engineered smoke control &
smoke purging system
-Exceeded sizes of
compartmentation
TYPES OF RISING MAINS IN HIGHRISE BUILDING
More than 10m & less than 60m

* Height based on habitable height
- Height based on habitable height

FIRE EXTINGUISHING
SYSTEM FOR KITCHEN
HOOD
WATER MIST SYSTEM
Chapter 7
Mechanical Ventilation
And
Smoke Control Systems
Chapter 7: Mechanical ventilation and smoke control systems
To inform the trainees that this chapters cover the MV and smoke control system in building. It also covers the requirements for use dampers and how
ventilation of exit staircases are provided. Also descripe briefly the concept of provided smoke control system such as engineered smoke control and smoke purging
system in building.
Provision of dampers
Mechanical Ventilation for exit
staircase and smoke control system
system in building.
Basement Engineered Smoke Control
System
system in building.
Smoke purging system
system in building.
Chapter 8
Other Systems
Chapter 8: Other systems
To explain to trainees the requirements of exit sign, directional exit sign and emergency lighting. Also explain what are the differences between public
address system, 1 way voice comms, 2 way voice comms system. Go through briefly the space required for fire command center.
Graphical Symbol Sign Photo Luminescent
Marking
 Signify an escape
route to an area of
safe condition
 Full view of man

moving to left or
right through
doorway
Voice Communication System
- Public Address system

- 1 way voice comms
- 2 way voice comms
-- Fire Command Centre
One-Way Emergency Communication
Two-way Emergency Communication Systems
Size of FCC:
Size of minimum 6m2 free working space
housing terminals and supervisory/control
equipments, etc of fire protection / detection systems.
Chapter 9
Fire Safety Report
Chapter 9: Fire safety report
To explain to the trainees what is fire safety report
A report which gives an overview of the fire safety works, including fire protections and mechanical ventilation systems for a complex building
WHAT’S FIRE SAFETY
REPORT
 A report which gives an overview of the fire
safety works, including fire protections and
mechanical ventilation systems for a complex
building
Qualified Person should submit a BUILDINGS THAT ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT FIRE
report on fire protection and life
safety features when making BP SAFETY REPORT
submission for projects such as:-
 Commercial buildings, including mixed-use
- High rise (over 60m in building height)
commercial buildings  habitable height exceeds 60m, or
-Large commercial buildings (gross floor

 gross floor area > 5000 m² or having a total occupant load > 1000
area greater than 5000sq m or having a persons
occupancy load exceeding 1000 persons)
 Industrial buildings
 gross floor area > 5000 m²
 petroleum/chemical plants and installations involving the use of
flammable and/or explosive materials
 Others
 High-rise buildings in which passive fire protection systems are
used for construction of protected shaft for staircases and/or lift
 Buildings exceeding one storey using fire rated board protection /
intumescent paint for structural steel
 Corrosive atmosphere (Pg VI & VIII)
Conclusion
- Importance for buildings to comply
with fire safety requirements
- occupants
- escape during emergency
- fire fighters
- conduct fire fighting and
rescue operations
Conclusion
ORGANISATION STRUCTURE
ROLES & FUNCTIONS OF
FIRE SAFETY & SHELTER

Introduce the lesson name and self introduction

SCOPE
n INTRODUCTION
n ORGANISATION STRUCTURE
n ROLES AND FUNCTIONS
n CONCLUSION
Go through lesson scope

OBJECTIVES
Be familiar with the
organisation structure of
FSSD and CED
n Be able to understand the

roles and functions of FSSD
and CED
List the objectives of the lesson

Introduction
BRIEF HISTORY
n From 1960s to 1985, Singapore Fire
Brigade tasked to be responsible for
all fire safety enforcement matters
n Before 1985, regulatory matters were

handled by (then) BCD of PWD
History of SCDF
Introduction
BRIEF HISTORY
n From 1985 Fire Safety Bureau was formed
under SCDF
n Introduction of Fire Safety Act 1993
n Meanwhile, a decision was made to harden
9 MRT Stations as CD Shelters (thus, the
formation of the Civil Defence Shelter
Bureau)
After FSB was formed, most government building do not submit plan to FSB and this create problem to current situation where a lot of these building do not comply
with the requirement and because there is no approval given at then, all these building have to comply with current requirements when the building wished to be sold to
private sector. For eg are school, PWD building at somerset, EX HDB HQ building at Jalan Bukit Merah. Those have approval will deemed as complying with
requirement and if there arent any change of use, this building can operate and can be sold anytime.
FSA give us the legal power to act on enforcement, approval of plan, TFP/FSC & FC.
Introduction
Civil Defence Shelter Bureau
n In 1987, a comprehensive shelter
programme was initiated by the
Government to construct shelters at :
– The foot of HDB flats

– Schools
– Community Centres
– Other public buildings
Shelter programme initiated at 1987.

Introduction
n In Sep 1994, it was announced that
Household Shelters would be incorporated
into new HDB households to facilitate
immediate access
n Thus, seizure of void deck shelters
Discuss about the introduction of household shelters in sep 1994.

Introduction
n On 15 Oct 1997, Civil Defence
Shelter Act was approved by
the President (full
implementation in 1998)
Civil Defence Shelter Act

FIRE SAFETY ACT 1993
CIVIL DEFENCE SHELTER ACT 1997
The 2 years where the 2 important Acts were implemented

FIRE SAFETY & SHELTER BUREAU
n In 2000, FSB and CDSB were merged as

one entity (FSSB)
n To serve the public much more effectively

and efficiently
Mainly more on cutting cost.

FIRE SAFETY & SHELTER DEPT.
n In July 2003, FSSB is known as Fire

Safety and Shelter Department
(FSSD)
n After moving into

HQ SCDF
This is to be inline with all the departments under scdf.

VISION
To be a model centre of
excellence in fire-safety
and shelter protection for
a safe and secure
environment
Vision of FSSD
MISSION STATEMENT
n We are the authority in setting,

maintaining and enforcing high fire
safety and CD sheltering standards
to make our buildings safe
n We promote fire safety and CD

sheltering as a way of life for our
community
Mission statement of FSSD

MISSION STATEMENT
n We are pro-business, customer-

oriented, innovative and
professional in providing quality
service through close partnership
with the community
Mission Statement of FSSD

FSSD and CED
n In October 2009, the

enforcement,certification and
licensing functions of FSSD is
incorporated into CED (Central
Enforcement Department)
CED is a new department formed in 2009. Fire safety enforcements and certification are now under the perview of CED instead of FSSD wef Oct 2009.
FSSD
Begin section on FSSD

FSSD ORGANISATION
STRUCTURE
Director FSSD Mr Boo Geok Kwang
Fire Safety Fire Safety Shelter Plans &

Consultation Plans Branch development Customer
Branch Service
Branch
Branch
Mr Heng Chai Liang Mr Lee Wee Keong LTC Cheok Poh Chin
Organisational structure of FSSD (updated Sep 2010) latest.

ROLE OF FSSD
n To ensure adequate:
– provision and maintenance of fire safety
– sheltering measures
– installations in buildings
– in the storage of fire hazardous materials
through prescribing and enforcing policies and
requirements under the respective Acts viz:-
n To formulate and implement fire safety policies, as well as

regulate fire safety standards as expressed in the Fire
Safety Act.
(Provision and maintenance of fire safety) Scheduled enforcement by all stations is a surprise check and balance system to ensure that building are always safe, esp the
escape.
(installation) FC yearly renewal to certify that the public building fire safety are in order. PE is to endorse on the form that the building is ok and submitted to scdf, and
scdf will visit all buildings at least once in 2 years.
ROLE OF FSSD
n The Fire Safety and Shelter Department is the
technical authority in setting, maintaining and
enforcing a standard of fire safety that will make
buildings safe for our community.
n They promote good fire safety practices and address

public concerns with regards to fire hazards.
n They strive to provide prompt, efficient services

through close partnerships with building professionals
and schemes that will help the building industry
become self-reliant.
Roles of FSSD to be explained in this slide.

FSSD is further
categorized into 4 sections.
n 1. Shelter Development Branch
Planning and directing of the

development and
implementation of CD Shelter programme.
n 2. Plans and Customer Service Branch
Co-ordination of the formulation/ review

of legislation procedures, planning of
directives, circulars and guidelines of fire
safety and shelters. Also takes care of the
customer service counter at 1st storey of
HQSCDF.
Highlight role of SDB and PAB

FSSD is further
categorized into 4 sections.
3. Fire Safety Plans Branch (FSP Branch)

Enforcement of provision in the Fire Safety Act.
4. Fire Safety Consultation Branch (FSC

Branch)
Provision of consultation service to architects and
engineers on matters relating to fire safety.
Highlight roles of FSPB and FSCB

FIRE SAFETY &
CONSULTATION BRANCH
(before PAC)
FSC Branch EO Heng Chai Liang
Senior Code development,

Consultant
Consultants Materials & products
Consultant
Assistance

22
Organisational chart of FSCB

FIRE SAFETY &
CONSULTATION BRANCH
FUNCTIONS
n Providing consultation services to architects

and professional engineers prior to actual
plan submission, through scheduled
appointments or walk in consultation.
Consultation comes in many ways, walk-in, appt, email, phone and by post.
Fire Safety Plans Branch
Fire Safety Plans Mr Lee Wee Keong
Branch
Waiver Team Plans & Fees Plans Audit

Verification Team Team
Plan approval within 2 days based on self regulation scheme. Waiver to be processed within 7 working days.
Auditing of plans is 7 days for minor plans and 3 weeks for major plan.
SHELTER DEVELOPMENT
BRANCH
Shelter LTC Cheok Poh Chin
SO Shelter SO Shelter SOShelter

Shelter
Management Project Plans
Plans
SO Shelter SO Special
Development Installation
Organisational chart of SDB

ROLE OF SHELTER BRANCH
The functions of Shelter Br, FSSD are as follows:
n To plan, develop and direct the implementation of

policy and plans related to the CD shelter
programme.
n To establish, implement and review the shelter

requirements and specifications relating to
planning, construction, maintenance and
management of shelters.
n To formulate the CD shelter master plan.

Explain the roles of SDB, FSSD

n To establish the desired protection criteria for
all types of CD shelter.
n To establish and review the legislation,
regulations and guidelines related to shelter
requirements.
n To formulate and implement plans relating to
the development of shelter expertise such as
research, training and acquisition of
consultancy and resource materials.
n To develop doctrines relating to shelter
management and operational readiness.

n To ensure the readiness of shelters by conducting
inspections.
n To provide specialist support to CD Commanders on

the establishment and training of the Shelter
Management Units.
n To provide specialist support on the conduct of shelter

exercises.
n To develop plans and to establish requirements

relating to the conversion of existing building
structures into improvised shelters.

PLANS & CUSTOMER SERVICE
BRANCH
Plans/Policies Plans
Customer
review Store
Service
Team
Centre
Organisational chart of P&CSB

BRANCH
n Co-ordinate the planning and

monitor the implementation of Fire
Safety and Sheltering Policies.
n Co- ordinate the formulation/review

of legislation provisions, planning
directives, circulars and guidelines
for Fire Safety and Shelter Branch.
Role of P&CSB
BRANCH
n Prepare annual and multi-level
budgets and controls expenditure for
the Fire Safety and Shelter projects
n Prepare annual work plans

objectives, outputs and performance
indicators.
n Ensure proper operation of Customer

Service Centre
Role of P&CSB
BRANCH
n Prepare reports and materials on Fire
safety and Shelter matters for
government agencies and media.
n Co-ordinate preparation of publicity

materials and public affair events (with
PAD).
n Co-ordinate IT
initiatives development.
Role of P&CSB
n Collaboration with other Home
Team agencies and departments
from other Ministries
n Listening and working together

with the QPs and the RIs through
dialogue session
Dialogue session are organized by the various body ie SIA, IES, AERES
WE’RE NOT ALONE…
n Close collaboration with relevant professional
bodies through Standing Committees,
Dialogue Sessions and Shelter Discussion
Groups
n Partnering with the community through CSSP
initiatives
n MOU with tertiary institutions (eg: NUS, NTU,
University of Western Sydney, NP, NYP, TP)
Work closely with many other agencies and stat boards. FSSD Seminar is now held once a year.
CED
Begin section on CED

Organization Structure of CED
Office of Director
Central Enforcement Dept
Plans & Prosecution

Enforcement Branch
Branch
Certification Branch Licensing Branch
The structure of CED is as shown

PLANS & PROSECUTION BRANCH
Role of P&PB
ENFORCEMENT BRANCH
These are the functions of the enforcement branch

CERTIFICATION BRANCH
Role of Certification Branch

LICENSING BRANCH
Role of Licensing Branch

Q&A
Invite questions
THE END
End of presentation
ROLES
&
RESPONSIBILITIES
OF
FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
Introduce the topic

FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
With the passing of the FSA ‘93 & Reg
‘94
• Mandatory for owners of designated building to appoint
FSM
• 1 FSM to 1 Bldg
• Appointed by Bldg Owner
• Aim to enhance bldgs fire safety standard
• To impress on owner and mngt to be responsible/ be
involved
Explain that under the 1994 Fire Safety Act, the authority may specify any premises or class of premises owner or occupier to appoint a qualified Fire Safety
Manager, With the appointment, Fire Safety Managers are required to assist building owners or occupier in the performance of his duties under the Fire Safety Act or
any related regulations. Together with the owner, they are to ensure that the fire safety measures and fire safety practices in the premises comply with the regulations
under the Fire Safety Act & Regulations and/or to the standard as specified by the Commissioner.
FSM SCHEME
• Commercial premises (phase 1,2,3 completed) -

about 450 buildings (1994, ‘95, ‘96)
• Industrial premises (phase 1 completed) - 59

(1997 onwards)
• Industrial premises (phase 2) - about 1000

buildings. (In 1998)
• Enforcement - 1st Jan 99
Buildings involved in the FSM scheme

FSM IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
• Conduct training courses
• Discussion / Dialogue with

building owners - ongoing
All public and industrial buildings which have a gross floor area of 5,000 sq metres or more or an occupant load of 1,000 persons or more, are required to have a Fire
Safety Manager. Any industrial building which is classified as a high risk premises, is also required to have a Fire Safety Manager. Examples of buildings that are
required to have Fire Safety Managers (FSM) are shopping centres, hotels, office buildings, factories, warehouses etc. Certain public buildings such as hospitals are
also required to have FSMs. Examples of high risk premises are those that are involved in chemical and petrochemical activities.
DUTIES OF OWNER OR OCCUPIER
• Within 90 days appoint FSM
• Provide FSM facilities, equipment &

information
• Permit FSM to attend courses/training
The owner or occupier of specified premises shall:
Within 90 days from the time the premises are specified or fall within the class of premises specified by the Minister under section 22(1) of the Act, appoint a FSM.
Provide the fire safety manager appointed by him with such facilities, equipment and information as are necessary to enable the fire safety manager to discharge his duties effectively
and efficiently.
Permit the fire safety manager to attend such courses of instruction and receive such training relating to the work of the fire safety manager as may be required by the Commissioner.
Reimburse the fire safety manager for all expenses incurred by him in attending such courses or training.
Not make any deduction from the remuneration of the fire safety manager for being absent from work for the purposes of attending such courses or training.
Within 44 days of the termination appointment of his fire safety manager appoint another person to be his fire safety manager; and
Within 14 days of the appointment or termination of appointment of any fire safety manager notify the Commissioner in writing of such fact.
DUTIES OF OWNER OR OCCUPIER
• Within 14 days appoint another FSM
• Within 14 days inform SCDF
• FSMAS for help
• Advertise (Appoint from ‘open market’)
The owner or occupier of specified premises shall:
Within 90 days from the time the premises are specified or fall within the class of premises specified by the Minister under section 22(1) of the Act, appoint a FSM.
Provide the fire safety manager appointed by him with such facilities, equipment and information as are necessary to enable the fire safety manager to discharge his duties effectively
and efficiently.
Permit the fire safety manager to attend such courses of instruction and receive such training relating to the work of the fire safety manager as may be required by the Commissioner.
Reimburse the fire safety manager for all expenses incurred by him in attending such courses or training.
Not make any deduction from the remuneration of the fire safety manager for being absent from work for the purposes of attending such courses or training.
Within 44 days of the termination appointment of his fire safety manager appoint another person to be his fire safety manager; and
Within 14 days of the appointment or termination of appointment of any fire safety manager notify the Commissioner in writing of such fact.
TYPES OF PREMISES
REQUIRING A FSM
Public bldgs (inclusive of
commercial)
• 9 storeys or more in ht (including basement)
• Hospitals
• Gross flr area of 5,000 sq m or > more
Explain the types of premises requiring a FSM. All public and industrial buildings which have a gross floor area of 5,000 sq metres or more or an occupant load of
1,000 persons or more, are required to have a Fire Safety Manager. Any industrial building which is classified as a high risk premises, is also required to have a Fire
Safety Manager. Examples of buildings that are required to have Fire Safety Managers (FSM) are shopping centres, hotels, office buildings, factories, warehouses
etc. Certain public buildings such as hospitals are also required to have FSMs. Examples of high risk premises are those that are involved in chemical and
petrochemical activities.
DUTIES OF FIRE
SAFETY MANAGERS
Assist owner to discharge responsibilities of

keeping premises fire safe by:
• Ensure fire safety requirements in FEP are

complied with
• Maintenance of all fire safety measures
• Ensure occupant load does not exceed capacity
prescribed under the Fire Code
• Daily checks & remove any fire hazard
• Prepare and update FEP & conduct fire drills,
table-top exercises annually
Duties of FSM
DUTIES OF FIRE
SAFETY MANAGERS
• Ensure that all occupants are familiar with
means of escape
• Prepare fire safety guidebooks
• Train the occupants in first-aid , fire fighting
and evacuation in the event of fire
• Supervise the operation of the Fire Command
Centre in the event of fire
• Organise campaigns, training courses,
competitions, contests and other activities
• Any other works necessary for fire safety
Duties of FSM
TRAINING/ QUALIFICATION
OF FSM
• Prescribed courses
– FSM Certificate
– CIFE Certificate
– Advance Diploma in Fire Safety
Management
– Diploma in Building Services Engrg. by
Ngee Ann Poly (from 1991 onwards)
– Diploma in Building & Real Estate Mngt
– Adv. Diploma in Safety, Health & Env
Mngt
In addition to those who possess the certificate in FSM, other likely candidates to be recognised as FSMs are persons who possess :
Certificate in Fire Engineering – CIFE.

Diploma in Building Services Engineering (Ngee Ann Polytechnic) obtained on/after 1991.
Advanced Diploma in Fire Safety Management.
ANNUAL REPORT
• Info on bldg
• Trg for tenants/occupants, FW,
management & staff & fire
fighting team
• Fire safety activities
• improvement
Explain that all the owners and Fire Safety Managers’ functions need to be recorded and the best form is by preparing the annual fire safety report thoroughly. The
procedures and steps taken in compiling the annual report are as follows :
Fire Safety (FSM) Regulations 1994
• Regulation 8(1) – Commissioner may require

the owner of any specified premises to
forward two copies of the report
• Prepare and submit to the owner the report in

the month of December
• Owner to discuss report with FSM and take

necessary action or measures
Under information, Fire Safety Managers are required to outline the following information: -
Building Name
No of storey
Owner’s Name
Owner’s Tel No
FSM’s Name
FSM’s Tel No
Building Address
Correspondence Address, if different from (g)
Occupant Load
Gross Floor Area
Fire Safety Report Shall Contain
the Following Particulars:
FORMAT:
• Measures taken by FSM to train occupants in fire fighting skills
• Maintain their interest in establishing a fire safe environment
• Include particulars of activities conducted for the past 12

months
• To inculcate greater awareness of regular action programmed

e.g.:
– In-house training
– External training
– Fire safety activities (Include Table-Top Exercise)
Reporting Period
To indicate the duration period in which the various Fire Safety Managers functions are carried out, usually from 1st January to 31st December of the said year.
Training
Generally, there are 4 categories of building occupants. Each catergory of building occupants need to be educated on the subject as shown in Annex A.
Fire Safety Report Shall Contain the
Following Particulars:
• FSM’s recommendations on how the
structure and the layout of premise could be
improved with regard to fire safety
e.g.
• Building structure
• Layout
• Fire protection system
• Other fire safety measures
vExternal training
If a staff was sent for external training conducted by professional organizations such as Ngee Ann Polytechnic, FSMAS, Private Consultants, etc. and the subject
taught is relevant to fire safety, then the following information should be taken into consideration: -
Type of training (e.g. FSM Course, Certificate in Fire Engineering, etc)

The duration of the training
The organizer of the said courses.
The no of staff that you have sent for the course.
• Number of Fire Evacuation Drills conducted within
the premise and the effectiveness of such drills
To include a debrief report:
– Simulated fire scenario
– Management response
– Evacuation procedures
– Occupant participation
– Evacuation time
– Committees’ comments
– Conclusion (by comparing previous drills)
– Attachments (e.g.: drill status record & drill record sheet)
Fire Safety Activities Conducted
Understanding the requirement under the FSM Regulations is important in order to plan a comprehensive fire safety programme throughout the year. To upgrade the
education level and fire safety awareness among building occupants, brainstorming session should be done together with building owners to organize a useful fire
safety activities. At times, the proposal may be exceeding what is required under the Regulations. The objectives of such as approach are to sustain the interest of
building occupants on fire safety and maintain a high standard of fire safety. Some of the fire safety activities that could be conducted are:
• List of activities relating to fire safety scheduled for the
occupants in the next 12 months
• Any matter arising from the previous report including

measures taken
• Draw up Arson Prevention Plan, such as,
– Arson Risk Assessment

– Fire Safety Management Procedures
– Risk Reduction Measures
– Implementation
Fire Safety Exhibition
This type of fire safety activity is one of the best method to educate building occupants and to project in them the seriousness of a fire situation and its’ consequences.
The adequate period of such an exhibition is to hold it for three days in the building. To gauge the response in term of participation rate, the following tools could be
used:
Feedback forms.
Fire Safety Quiz Forms.
Aim
• To track and monitor the performance of FSM
• To have an overview and idea of what their FSM
have done
• Owner responsible for the fire safety in their
buildings
• FSM to assists building owners
• Owners to keep proper records of reports
• Tool to monitor the fire safety standard and
practices in building
Understanding the requirement under the FSM Regulations is important in order to plan a comprehensive fire safety programme throughout the year. To upgrade the
education level and fire safety awareness among building occupants, brainstorming session should be done together with building owners to organize a useful fire
safety activities. At times, the proposal may be exceeding what is required under the Regulations. The objectives of such as approach are to sustain the interest of
building occupants on fire safety and maintain a high standard of fire safety. Some of the fire safety activities that could be conducted are:
CONCLUSION
• Management responsibilities
• Concerted effort - Authority /
Building owners / Professionals /
General Public
Conclude the lesson

Inspection Procedures
FC/TFP/FSC
Fire Safety & Shelter Department
Singapore Civil Defence Force
Introduction
 FireCertificate for Public and
Industrial Buildings
 Objective of FC
 Regulate performance of fire safety
measures
 Life safety of occupants
 Reduce fire outbreak
 Restrict internal spread of fire
 Prevent spread of fire to neighbouring bldg
 Rapid evacuation of occupants
Fire Certificate?
Public building – OL >200 persons
Shop, office, hospital, place of Public
Resort, e.g restaurant, association,
cinema, club, hotel, etc
Industrial building
OL 1,000 person or more; or
Gross floor area 5,000m2 or more; or
Habitable height >24m ; or
High risk premises
Fire Certificate Application Process
START
APPLICATION Documents *
FC 01 – Application form for FC
FC 02 – Certificate of Maintenance
FC 03 – Fire Safety Manager’s inspection
report.
Documents* submitted
Form FSSD FC 01
Form FSSD FC 02
Form FSSD FC 03
No Prescribed Fee
Enforcement Yes
Action Not In
Check Order WD to owner
document
In Not In
Order Order WD to owner
Yes to rectify
Audit Inspectio
Check irregularities
n
No In
Order
Issue Recommend for
Fire Certificate Enforcement
FC Re-
Action
inspection
Fire Safety Measures By
Professional Engineers
 Dry riser
 Wet riser
 Automatic sprinkler
 Automatic fire alarm
 Hosereel with pump
 Atrium smoke control
 Pressurisation
 Air-conditioning
 Carpark smoke exhaust
 Lift
 Voice communication
Fire Safety Measures By Fsm/
Building Owner
Hosereel system (without pump)

Portable fire extinguisher
Manual fire alarm system
Emergency lighting (battery type)
Illuminated exit sign (battery type)
Good fire safety housekeeping
Code Of Practice
Singapore Standard
 CP 2 - Lifts
 CP 10 - Fire alarm system
 CP 13 - MV & A/C conditioning
 CP 19 - Emergency lighting
 CP 25 - Voice communication system
 CP 29 - Fire hydrant/dry riser/wet riser system
 CP 52 - Automatic sprinkler system
 CP 55 - Portable fire extinguisher (FX)
 SS 232 - Specification for portable FX
 SS 332 - Fire door
Pre-Inspection
FC buildings are selected by computer &
also based on the states of maintenance
for the building.
FSSD’s Inspector checked on
Application Form by Building Owner and
Certificate of Maintenance by QP.
Noted the fire safety measures &
systems available for this buildings.
Number of inspectors required.
Inspection
 Team leader brief building owner/FSM

 Agreed on when to activate fire alarm, trip power
power supply, etc.
 Decam
 Service contractor/s at site
 Precaution measures to be taken.
 Deployment of staffs
 3 Phases of inspection (excluded plan checking)
 Upon completion – put every fire safety systems to
normal conditions.
Post-Inspection
De-brief by Team leader to building

owner/FSM on irregularities (if any)
Issued letter of non-compliances given
21 days.
SEQUENCE OF TESTS
Phase (1) - Activation Of Fire Alarm Activation
Start
Meet the Management
Inform Decam
Deploy Officers to Strategic Location
Testing of Public Address System
Activation of Fire Alarm System
Check Check Check

Check Check
FCC Check lift Check Check Auto Check
Staircase EM door
& Main Signal Homing Atrium Carpark Sliding Smoke
Pressuris Lock &
Fire to & Testing Fan Smoke Door at Curtain
-ation Fire
Alarm Decam of System Exhaust 1st sty System
Fan Roller
Panel Fire Lift System Exit
System shutter
All Officers to Report to Supervisor
Reset All The Systems to Normal
End of Phase (I) Testing

Phase (2) - Testing Of System Under Power Failure
Start
Deploy Officers to Strategic Location
By-Passed the Lift System Under Fire Alarm Mode
Testing of the Main Fire Pumps & Transfer Pumps under PUB (Sprinkler & Wet Riser System)
Trip the Normal Power Supply
Standby Generator Cut-in Automatically
Test
Test Check
Wet Test Check Test
Test Lift Test Stair Test
Riser / Public Exit Sign/ Smoke
Sprinkler Homing Atrium Pressur Carpark
Ring Address E-light Curtain
Pumps & Fire Fan -isation Exhaust
Main System to Stairs/ System
Lift System System System
Pumps Corridors
Activation of Fire Alarm System, if Necessary
All Officers Report to Supervisor
Restore to PUB Power Supply
Reset All the Systems to Normal
End of Phase (II) Testing

Phase (3) – Testing Of Individual System
Start
By-Passed Lifts/Atrium/Stair Pressurisation/Smoke Curtain/Auto Glass Sliding Dr/Fire Rated

Shutter
Deploy Officers to Check Individual System
Random Check Wet Riser Dry Riser Lifts System

•Fire Door System System •Check PSB /
Sprinkler
•Hosereel point •Test wet •Test constant SISIR for EBOPS:-
System
•Heat Detector riser flow pressure •Check & Test
•Test sprinkler
•Smoke Detector rate •Check earthing operation of
control valve
•Sprinkler Head •Test static •Check air lift car bell,
pressure
•AHU System & running release valve lighting,
•Checking
•Fire Extinguisher pressure •Check inlet ventilation &
inlet
•All Signage •Check inlet •Check all communication
•Check all
•Manual Call Point •Check all signage set
signage
signage
All Officers to Report to Supervisor
Reset All The Systems to Normal
End of Phase (III) Testing
End of Inspection - Brief The Management on The Deficiencies Discover

Follow-up Action
To issue FC when no irregularities noted.

Building owner/FSM reported
compliance.
Re-inspection is arranged
Upon re-inspection if irregularities are
rectified – to issue FC.
Introduction
 Fire Safety Certificate(FSC)/Temporary

Fire Permit(TFP) – to obtain before
premises is allowed to occupied.
 Issued upon completion of fire safety
works – codes of practices and
statutory requirements.
 Registered Inspectors(RI) – on behalf
of Authority.
Introduction
 RIs are Engineers and Architects
registered with FSSD
 RI (Architecture) and RI (M&E) inspect
and certify fire safety works of the
project before issuance of FSC/TFP
 Authority audit project inspected by RI
 Selection of auditing of project
inspected by RI
Procedures
Inspection of project is governed
by scope of works need to be
checked and tested.
Scope of works depend:
 Size of project
 Type of project e.g residential,
industrial commercial, institutional, etc
 Complexity of the project – fire
protection, mechanical ventilation and
building works.
Pre-Inspection
Approved plans - first study to decide on

scope of works checked and tested
Building plan(BP), Fire Protection(FP) and
Mechanical ventilation(MV)
Any special conditions imposed or waiver
granted
Staffing of inspection teams, their duties and
deployment.
Inspection
 FSSD’s inspection need not be 100%;
especially for large projects
 For large and complex projects, team of 5
will normally allocate about 3 hours
 Random test of fire safety works e.g dry
riser, fire alarm, pressurisation staircase, etc
 2 teams – architectural and M&E aspects
 Short presentation by QP (Architect /
Professional Engineer) is required on fire
safety works.
Inspection
QP notified of the site audit & sequence

of inspection.
QP organise his staff to tie up with
FSSD’s Inspector.
Major projects normally comprises of 3
phases of inspection and testing.
Inspection
During phase 3 checking and testing of

individual systems, on-site conditions
against the fire code & approved plans.
Some of the systems (if applicable) to be
individually tested such as FHs, fire lift,
sprinkler, dry riser, etc.
Checklists used by the Inspectors.
Post-Inspection
List of irregularities consolidated and
make known to QP at site.
Allowed QP to clarify on the list of
irregularities.
An official written direction sent out to
QP for compliance.
QP required to make rectifications and
reported compliance.
Post-Inspection
Depending on severity of cases, another

inspection may be needed, before FSC/
TFP issued.
To request for plans to be audited if
suspected that the approved plans are
not in order.
Minor Deviations
FSC issued when all fire safety

requirements complied with.
TFP issued for minor deviation yet to be
complied with
Accepted minor deviation:
Temporary signages.
Label missing
Fire stopping (TAS)
Internal partitions noted at site.
Minor Deviations
QP responsibilities to comply with minor
deviations.
RIs issued Inspection Certificate when no
major deviations or non-compliances in
the project.
Issuance of Inspection Certificate Form 1
for full compliance and Form 2 for minor
deviations
Authority to decide to issue FSC, TFP or
not to issue
Fire
Pumps
Wet Riser Air release valve
Tank Roof Level
Schematic Drawing
Wet Riser System
16th Storey
Wet
Riser
Outlet
Fire
Water from PUB Break Pumps
Breeching inlet Tank 1st storey
Wet Riser System
Physical Checks
Breeching inlet
 Clear of obstruction
 Housed in protective
enclosure
 Labelled “Wet Riser
Breeching Inlet”
 Blank caps provided
 Painted red
Wet Riser System
Physical Checks
Landing valves
 Labelled “Wet Riser
Outlet” (red)
 Numbering tallies with
actual inlet
 Blank cap provided
 Strapped and padlocked in
closed in position
Condition of handwheel
Wet Riser System
Physical Checks
Riser
 Direction of water flow
indicated
 Pipe size in order
(min 150mm dia.)
 Earthing
 Air release valve
Fire Pumps
 Auto start of duty

pump
 Auto changeover from
PUB to secondary
power supply auto
changeover from duty
to standby pump
 All pumps can start
manually
Fire Pump Panel
 Duty pump and

standby pump
 Pumps are
differentiated
 Pump numbering on
panel tallies with
actual pump
 Pump selector switch
on auto position
Wet Riser Testing
 Static pressure less than

8 bars
 Running pressure 3.5 to
5.5 bars
Wet Riser Testing
Flow rate : 38 l/s for non-residential
27 l/s for residential
Air release valve
Roof level
Dry riser outlet
Schematic Drawing
Dry Riser System
>10 to 60 metres
8th Storey
Dry riser outlet

1st Storey
Breeching inlet
Dry Riser System
Breeching Inlet
Dry Riser System
Riser
 Landing valves – painted yellow
 Hydrostatic pressure test:
 20.7bars (300psi) for 30
mins
 13.8 bars (200psi) for 2 hrs
 Air release valve functioning
Automatic Air Release Valve
Air release valve

equipped with stop
valve.
Rising Mains
Dry riser landing

valve
Sprinkler System
Breeching Inlet
Sprinkler System
Control valves
 Labelled to indicate
storey served
 Enclosure labelled
 Strapped &
padlocked in
appropriate position
Sprinkler System
 Sprinkler head not

obstructed or painted
over
 Double layer provided

for false ceiling / raised
floor space
 Protected guard
Sprinkler System
Water proving test

 Flowrate /running
Sprinkler
Drain Test
 Cut-in pressure
within 30 seconds
from signal to
start
Sprinkler
Flow switch test

Signal received at fire alarm panel
Gong activated
General sounding
Fire Alarm System
Manual fire alarm Automatic fire alarm

Manual Fire Alarm
Test on call-point
 Alarm bells in operational
condition
 General sounding throughout
the building
 Zone testing correctly indicated
on sub/main panels
 Fire alarm sounding is
distinguishable
Manual Fire Alarm
Test on electrical fault

supervision
 Zone tested correctly
registered on sub/main
panel
 Audible fault alarm &
fault indication light on
sub/main panel
Manual Fire Alarm
General
 Call point – not obstructed
 Zoning diagram next to fire panel
 Break-glass call-point provided
with activation mode
Automatic Fire Alarm
(Heat/Smoke Detector)
General
 Sufficient coverage especially with regard to new
partition works
 Detector points are not obstructed & free from
painting
 Double layer provided
 Test on detector point
(by heat induction/smoke injection)
 Test on electrical supervision
(creation of fault in detector point)
Fire Hosereel
General
 Nozzle condition satisfactory
 Stopcock condition
satisfactory
 Labelling provided for
cabinet
 Length of hose not more than
30m
Fire Hosereel
Fire Hosereel
Test on hosereel
 10m horizontal throw
 No leakage
Test on hosereel booster

pump
 Auto cut-in/cut-off of pumps
when hosereel is operating /
pressure is re-established
 Auto changeover from duty to
standby pump
Fire Hosereel Testing – 10m
Atrium Smoke Control System
 Activation under smoke detector
 Linked to secondary power supply
 Exhaust fans are manually reset
 External door opening
 AHUs should cut-off

Atrium
Smoke detector at
perimeter of reservoir
BEFORE ACTIVATION AFTER ACTIVATION

Staircase Pressurisation
System
 High speed (single fan)

 Both fans operate (double fan)
 Operating under both normal
and secondary power supply
 Manually stopped
 Airflow velocity 1 m/s
 110 newtons
Air Handling Unit (AHU)
 Smoke detector within

the return air stream
 Activation of smoke
detector should
automatically trip the
AHU
 AHU manually reset

Basement Smoke
Extract System
 Automatically operated
upon fire alarm
activation
 Linked to secondary
power supply
Basement Smoke
Extract System
 Failure of exhaust
will cut off the
corresponding supply
fan (interlocking)
 Manually reset
Lifts
Lift homing
Fire alarm
Power Failure
Lifts
Fire lift operation
EBOPS
Exit Sign
Locations
Automatic operation
 1 second
 15 seconds
Duration
 1 hour
Illumination level
 0.5 lux
Exit Direction Sign
Emergency Lighting
Emergency Lighting
Emergency Lighting
Emergency Voice
Communication System
One-way voice communication

Loudspeakers for public address
Two-way voice communication
Emergency Voice Communication
System
One-way voice communication system
 Microphone input, selector switches, amplifiers and
loudspeakers
 Control by zone, floor area & escape staircases, both
selectively & collectively from control console at FCC
Emergency Voice
Loudspeaker for public address system

Hotel and health care occupancies <24m
Staircase enclosure
Any other location within audible distance.
Emergency Voice
Two-way voice communication system
 Master handset, selector switches at control
console and remote handsets
 Communicate between master handset from FCC
and remote handsets:
fire fighting lobbies
fire pump room
atrium fan room
Smoke Stop Lobby
Independent system
for protected lobbies
linked to secondary
power supply
Portable Fire Extinguisher
 Properly hung on
bracket
 Date of service
 Bear PSB label

Fire Hydrant
 Cover for spindle
chamber visible
 Blank caps provided to
outlets
 Test for sufficient water
supply
 100mm thick yellow band
around private fire
hydrant
Fire Hydrant Testing
Smoke Extract
Glass Block
Broken by fireman
Exit Staircase
 Staircase numbering
 Service pipes not

permitted
 Finishes
 Obstruction
Escape Route
Corridor
 Obstruction
 Exit & directional signs
 Door release device

Fire Door/Exit Door
 PSB label
 Door closer/close fitting
 Locking device
 Vision panel
Fire Door
Fire door held open by

electro-magnetic
device
Duct Riser
 Fire stopping
 No storage
Duct Riser
Fire
stopping
Duct Riser
Riser duct
not fire-
stopped
Thank you
• FSC - issued after full completion of all fire safety works
in the project.
• Any building owner who fails to comply :
– guilty of an offence under FSA
– liable to court action.
• Owner may apply for and obtain a TFP for a limited
period to occupy or use the premises, prior to obtaining
the FSC.
• TFP - project satisfactorily completed with minor
deviations.
Timeframe to obtain FSC after issuance of the TFP will
depend on :
size, type and complexity of the project.
Maximum of 6 months will be granted eg building of
5,000 sq m will be given 2 months.
Large projects > 30,000 sq m, issuance of Partial TFP for
various phases of project.
QPs to provide partial TFP phasing schedule to FSSD for
approval before application.
APPLICATION FOR TFP/FSC
• Application submitted after the plans for the fire

safety works of the project have been approved and
the works have been fully completed in accordance
to FSSD’s requirements.
• Plans cover BP, FP and MV depending on the type
of project.
• Make application 1 week after the approval of the
plans.
• QP to ensure that all waivers and plan audit have
been cleared before making the application.
• Inspection Certificate issued by a

Registered Inspector (RI) is a prerequisite
for the issuance of a FSC/TFP
• RIs are required for all types of projects
involving fire safety works in the project
that need to be inspected and certified
• RI’s Inspection Certificate Form 1 - FSC
• RI’s Inspection Certificate Form 2 - TFP
• 3 working days to process an application and issue a 1st
response.
• Outcome :
– Issuance of FSC/TFP
– Rejection; thereby necessitating a re-submission
– Inspection notification
– KIV due to plan audit
• Selected for an inspection by FSSD either computer or
manually selected.
• Inspection carried out within 10 days upon receipt of

application.
• Inspections conducted by a min of 2 staff. Larger or
complex cases may require 5 staff.
• Non-compliances or deviations found during the
inspection,
– QP to make the rectifications
– re-submit complying with outstanding items.
• Waiver applications submitted by QPs after RI and FSSD
inspections.
FSSD Form CFSW
THE FIRE SAFETY (BUILDING FIRE SAFETY) REGULATIONS

[Regulation 12 A(b)]
CERTIFICATION FOR FIRE SAFETY WORKS
The Commissioner
Singapore Civil Defence Force
91 Ubi Avenue 4
Singapore 408827
Attn: Director, Fire Safety & Shelter Department
Project Title: ___________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________
The fire safety works for the above project under the FSSD approved plan numbers given below, have been completed in
accordance with the fire code, Fire Safety Act 1993 and its Regulations and relevant Codes of Practice.
FSSD approved plans Approved dates Certification by QP/PE
(stamp, signature & correspondence address)
BP Plan Nos:
FP Plan Nos.
MV Plan Nos.
MINOR DEVIATIONS
• A TFP will be issued for a project when there are still
some minor fire safety requirements that have yet to
be complied with.
• Minor deviations :
– Temporary signages.
– Temporary substitute DECAM line.
– Small number of missing labels.
– Fire-stop for Telecoms risers not completed.
– Internal partitions deviated slightly from the
approved plans.
Present System
When should the owner or occupier apply
for a Fire Certificate?
- 10 months after TFP/FSC

- 2 months before expiry of FC
FIRE CERTIFICATE
APPLICATION
• Submission For Application Of F.C.
* Form (FSB FC 01) Application
* Form (FSB FC 02) Certificate Of Maintenance
* Form (FSB FC 03) Inspection Report By The Fire Safety
Manager / Owner
* Application Fee
• Introduction Of Form FSB FC 03 (Inspection Report By The Fire
Safety Manager / Owner)
• Additional Systems To Be Tested And Certify By Professional
Engineers (PE)
SYSTEMS TO BE CHECKED BY FIRE
SAFETY MANAGER OR OWNER
• HOSE REEL SYSTEM (without pump)
• PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
• MANUAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEM (manual call points)
• EMERGENCY LIGHTING (self-contained type)
• ILLUMINATED EXIT SIGN (self-contained type)
• FIRE DOOR AND EXIT DOOR
• RISER DUCTS
• STAIRCASE AND PASSAGEWAY
• STANDARD FIRE SAFETY SIGNAGES (eg. Staircase numbering &
directional signs)
• THEATRE AND CINEMA
SYSTEMS TO BE CHECKED BY THE
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS
• DRY RISER SYSTEM
• LIFT SYSTEM
• EMERGENCY LIGHT (connected to standby generator)
• ILLUMINATED EXIT SIGN (connected to standby generator)
• VOICE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (1 way or 2 way)
• WET RISER SYSTEM
• AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
• AUTOMATIC FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
• STANDBY GENERATOR POWER SUPPLY
SYSTEMS TO BE CHECKED BY THE
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS
• ATRIUM SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM
• ENGINEERED SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM
• PRESSURIZATION FAN SYSTEM
• CARPARK SMOKE EXTRACT SYSTEM
• AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM
• FIRE DAMPER
• VOICE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (1 way or 2 way)
• HOSE REEL SYSTEM (with pump)
Formulation
of Fire Emergency Plan
for Commercial Buildings & Industrial
Premises
Presented by
Fire Safety & Investigation Training Wing

Civil Defence Academy
SCOPE
 Introduction
 Fire Emergency Plan (FEP)
 Guidelines for FEP
 Action to be taken in the event of fire
 Fire Safety Committee
 General Pointers
 Conclusion
Learning Objectives
 Able to explain the need of FEP
 Able to explain the fundamental

requirements for the formation of a Fire
Safety Committee
 Able to formulate a FEP for Commercial/

Industrial buildings
What is a
Fire Emergency Plan?
A plan which contains information on:
-- Types of fire safety measures,

provided for in designated
premises
-- Floor layout plans

Fire Emergency Plan
Owner of high-risk buildings or his

designated official will be
responsible for the preparation &
implementation of the FEP
Requirements of a
Fire Emergency Plan
 Prepare in accordance with guidelines

 Form a Fire Safety Committee to assist to
plan, organize & conduct fire safety
programme
 Review annually or as and when required by
Commissioner
 FEP kept at FCC or other place
easily available
In the event of a fire in the building, the situation will be very chaotic and everyone will be trying to escape out from the building. As such, a fire
emergency plan is needed to :
-avoid panic
-evacuate safety and orderly
-tackle incipient fires with first aid fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, hosereel, etc. but do not put yourself at risk.
-provide good information and assistance to firefighters. The layout plan of the building, type of storages and contact numbers of key officers can be
found in the Fire Emergency Plan. This will allow fire fighters to have a better appreciation of the situation and they will be able to put out the fire more
effectively.
-effect timely protection of machineries and property
Why organise for fire
emergencies ?
 Dangerous operational practices
 Combustible & smoke producing materials
 Indecisive, delay & lack of responsibilities
Why organise for fire emergencies? Although every building is constructed and designed to meet certain minimum standard of fire safety, a fire emergency plan is needed for the
following reasons :
-Dangerous operational practice - eg. wedged open fire doors, obstructed means of egress, locked exit doors, etc. This practices are normally caused by human. Irresponsible
people after opening the fire door do not close it which allow fire and smoke to spread in the event of f ire. Occupants in the building due to shortage of storage area in their
premises, placed their goods along escape routes causing obstruction. Occupants locked the exit doors due to security reasons and do not know the consequence.
-Combustible and smoke producing - Nowaday, there are many combustible materials such as plastic chairs, tables, papers found in commercial and office buildings. This kind of
materials causes rapid spread of fire and also produces smoke and highly toxic gases.
-Indecisive, delay and unawareness of responsibilities in case of fire. Occupants tends to push responsibilities to one another. As a result, it cause a delay and allow the fire hazard
to remain and no action taken to remove fire hazards.
Fire Emergency Plan
needed to
 avoid panic
 evacuate safely and orderly
 tackle incipient fires with first aid fire-fighting
equipment
 provide good information and assistance to
firefighters
 effect timely protection of machineries and
property
In the event of a fire in the building, the situation will be very chaotic and everyone will be trying to escape out from the building. As such, a fire
emergency plan is needed to :
-avoid panic
-evacuate safety and orderly
-tackle incipient fires with first aid fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, hosereel, etc. but do not put yourself at risk.
-provide good information and assistance to firefighters. The layout plan of the building, type of storages and contact numbers of key officers can be
found in the Fire Emergency Plan. This will allow fire fighters to have a better appreciation of the situation and they will be able to put out the fire more
effectively.
-effect timely protection of machineries and property
Guidelines for FEP
Guidelines for FEP
 Low rise bldg < 8 sty (exclude departmental
stores, supermarkets, emporiums & hotels)
 Departmental stores, supermarkets, emporiums,

hotels (30 sty & below) & high rise cmcial’ bldg
(8 - 30 sty)
 Cmcial’ high rise bldg (> 30 sty)
 Industrial premises
Contents of FEP
 Objective
 Action to be taken in event of an outbreak of fire
 Fire occurring outside office hours
 Duties & Responsibilities
 External emergency support
 Fire Evacuation Drill
 Classification of Emergencies
 General
 Appendices
OBJECTIVE
Purpose
 Safe guard of human lives in event of

fire
 Establish a systematic & orderly

evacuation plan
 Ensure prompt raising of the fire alarm

& marshalling of first aid fire fighting
efforts in event of fire
Next lesson is Fire Evacuation Procedure
Fire Evacuation
 <8-storey
– a single stage alarm
– evacuate immediately
– total evacuation upon hearing
the alarm
Total Evac
Fire flr
upon 1st
alarm
< 8-storeys
Fire Evacuation
 >8-storey & < 30-storey

– two stage alarm
– 1st alarm alert signal &
standby for total evacuation
– 2nd alarm is activated on all
floors upon confirmation of fire
Fire flr Total
Evac
upon
2nd
alarm
8 - 30-storeys
Fire Evacuation
 31-storey & >31-storey
– 2 stage alarm & phase evacuation

– 1st alarm will sound to alert
– 2nd alarm will sound to evacuate by phases
– 1st phase, occupants on the fire floor, 2 floors
above & 2 floors below
– 2nd phase, occupants on all floors above fire
floor
– 3rd phase, all floors below the fire floors
2 flr
above Phase 2
Phase
1
Fire flr
2 flr
below
> 30 - storey Phase 3
Fire Safety Committee
 Coordinator / assistant
 Fire Wardens / assistant
 Chief Security Officer / assistant
 Telephone Operator
 Member of the fire-fighting team
 Person responsible for the isolation of alarm
 Person receiving floor evacuation status at
FCC
• A Fire Safety Committee should be set up comprising representatives from all tenants in a multi-occupancy building and from all department in a single occupied building. The
committee should
consists of the following persons:
- Coordinator / assistant
- Fire Wardens / assistant
- Chief Security Officer / Engineer
- Telephone Operator / person responsible for broadscasting
messages
- Member of the firefighting team
- Person responsible for the isolation of alarm.
The Co-ordinator is usually the Fire Safety Manager or Building Manager or a supervisor. He is the one who prepares the Fire Emergency Plan and plan the conducting of Fire Drill.
The Fire Warden is a representative from a department or a floor. He will be the last person to leave the department or floor until all the occupants have evacuated. He will conduct
a headcount at the Assembly Area earlier designated and report to the Co-ordinator. The security personnel will be stationed at the main entrance and ground floor exit staircase to
prevent people from going into the building. The telephone operator will assist to make announcement through the PA system if it is available. The fire fighting team will carry the
fire extinguishers and proceed to fight the fire. Each fire fighting team can consists of two or three persons. There will also be a person to assist to isolate the alarm.
Video Show on Fire
Evacuation
Next lesson is fire hazards and its prevention

Action to be taken in
the Event of Fire
Action to be taken in the
event of fire
 Informant
– Raise alarm
– Fight fire
 All staff
– lock important files, cash, shutdown
machineries, etc
– Remain alert
– Evacuate immediately guided by FW
– Guide customers/guests/visitors
event of fire
 SCDF notified
 Proceed to FCC
 Mobilize FFT
 Isolate alarm bell
event of fire
Coordinator/Asst
 Announcement of text 1
“ Ladies & Gentlemen, your attention, please.
The fire alarm has been activated in the bldg.
We are investigating the situation. Please
remain calm & standby your speakers for
further instruction. Thank you.”
event of fire
Coordinator/Asst
 FW (fire flr) investigate cause of
alarm & report status
 Standby to receive status from FW/

FFT
event of fire
Coordinator/Asst
If FFT reports situation under control
“Ladies & Gentlemen, your attention, please.
The emergency situation in the bldg is now
under control. We regret any inconvenience
caused. Thank you”
event of fire
Coordinator/Asst
False alarm
“Ladies & Gentlemen, your attention, please.
We have investigated the situation and found it
to be a false alarm. We regret for any
inconvenience caused. Thank you”
event of fire
Evacuation necessary
 Initiate phase evacuation procedure
 Announcement of text 2 for floors require
evac
event of fire
Evacuation necessary
 Announcement of text 2A for floors on
standby
 “Ladies & Gentlemen, your attention, please. There
exists an emergency situation in the building. Our
FFT is now dealing with the situation. All occupants
please remain calm & standby your speakers for
further instruction. ”
 Coordinating evac by initiating various
phases of evac
event of fire
At FCC
 Bldg evac monitor using bldg evac
status chart
 Report condition of fire & no. of
persons missing to SCDF
 keys are available
Building Evacuation Status Chart
Coordinator : ______________________________________________
Building : _________________________________________________
Name of Evacuation Status.

Storey Fire Warden
Cleared Not Cleared
event of fire
Fire Warden/Asst
On hearing 1st stage alarm
 Check sub alarm panel
 Conduct physical check
 Prepare for evac if fire not on his
floor
 Report to FCC if fire on his floor &
effect evac immediately
event of fire
Fire Warden/Asst
On hearing evac announcement
 Check all rooms & evacuate everyone on
his floor
event of fire
Fire Warden/Asst Floor Register
Fire Warden : ________________________________________________

Storey : ______________________
Name of Evacuation Status.

Unit No.
Occupants Present Absent
event of fire
Chief Security Officer/Asst
Deploy Guards
 At ground floor staircase exit, main
entrance & exit
 Patrolling
 Direct SCDF to FCC
 Direct traffic
 Monitor status at AA & report to FCC
event of fire
FIRE FIGHTING TEAM
 Ascertain location of fire
 Use Fire Lift to 2 floors below fire
floor
 Bring lift to ground floor & wait for
SCDF
 Extinguish fire
event of fire
TELEPHONE OPERATOR
 Notify SCDF
 Proceed FCC to man PA system
995 !
Fire Occurring Outside
Office Hours
SECURITY PERSONNEL
 Confirm with SCDF
 Notify Coordinator/Asst
 Fight fire
Duties & Responsibilities of
Fire Safety Committee
“PeaceTime”
Duties & Responsibilities
COORDINATOR/ASST
 Represent management
 Establish Fire Safety Committee
 Training
 Prepare FEP
 Records date & time of drill
conducted
Evacuation Drill Record Sheet
I, the undersigned, designated as Coordinator of the fire drill held

by _______________ (Name of premises) hereby certify that the
facts shown on the line or lines herein below opposite my signature
are correct & further that each drill was successfully conducted in
full compliance with the approved Fire Emergency Plan.
Date of Name &

Time ‘Fire’ No. of Evac
Drill Signature of
Floor Participants Time
Coordinator
COORDINATOR/ASST
 Appoint one person as Coordinator

during his absence
 Train FFT
 Policing of fire hazards
 Proper maintenance of fire fighting
equipment
FIRE WARDEN/ASST
 Acquaint new employee with

FEP
 Familiar with FEP & means of
escape
 Familiar with fire alarm & use of
first aid fire fighting equipment
 Maintain & update floor register
CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER/ASST
 Familiar with FEP & means of escape

 Security personnel are well versed
TELEPHONE OPERATOR/ASST
 Conversant with FEP & tel no. of
SCDF and key personnels
 Familiar with messages & various
phases of evacuation
PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR
ISOLATION OF FIRE ALARM
 Conversant with FEP, location &

operation of fire alarm system
PERSON RECEIVING FLOOR
 Familiar with FEP

 Familiar with location of AA
Industrial
Specialist Personnel
 Conversant with the materials
 Apply steps to contain spread
of fire
 Familiar with specialist
department & companies to
contact to provide information
& advice on mitigating a fire
General Pointers
The preparation and conduct of a fire evacuation
drill is usually carried out in 3 stages:
 Stage 1: Before
evacuation
 Stage 2: During
Evacuation
 Stage 3: After Evacuation
Stage 1: Before Evacuation
Stage 1
• Determine evacuation date, time and assembly area.
• Prepare the fire emergency plan (FEP) in accordance to SCDF guidelines.
• Educate and distribute FEP and guide books to everyone.
• Nominate all the key personnel for the evacuation drill.
• Conduct briefings and meetings to all key personnel.
• Prepare and distribute the following items for the drill such as:
 Identification helmets/ caps
 general instruction files
 arm bands
 Floor register
 List of nominated personnel with contact number
 Logistical need
 Signage
 Evacuation drill status board
 System testing
• Prepare/ distribute all necessary notices and circulars.
• Nominate fire safety committee to assess the fire evacuation drill.
Stage 2: During Evacuation
Stage 2
Before activation of alarm, ensure the following:

• Key personnel are familiar with their functions (conduct dry-run)
• Reporting and support centres are set-up
• Monitoring station and relevant authorities notified
• Announcement messages prepared
When evacuation starts, monitor the following:

• Floor evacuation status
• Assembly area evacuation status
• Fire situation status
• Support centres status
For disaster situation:

• Implement recovery plan
• Determine command and control centre
• Determine a press release centre
• Expansion of support centres to include enquiry post
Stage 3: After Evacuation
Stage 3
 Immediately after the fire evacuation drill, conduct meetings with
fire safety committees.
 Conduct debrief/ meeting with key personnel
 Prepare comments to all fire wardens
 Send letter of thanks to all parties concerned
 Prepare a fire evacuation drill report to include the following topics:
• Simulated fire scenario
• Management response
• Evacuation procedures
• Occupant participation
• Evacuation time
• SCDF’s comments (if any)
• Fire Safety Committee’s comments
• Conclusion (compare previous drills)
• Attachments such as Evacuation drill status records, record
sheet, participating names
CONCLUSION
The formulation of fire

emergency plan is
important to ensure that all
staff and occupants are
ready to react effectively to
a fire situation
FIRE SCENE
PHOTO
DOCUMENTATION

SCOPE
Introduction
Basic Fire Scene Photographic Equipment
Composition & Techniques
Preparing Photo-Log
Photography Tips
Questions & Answers
Conclusion
In this lesson, I will touch on the importance of fire scene photography in fire investigation, the basic fire scene photography equipment, composition and techniques
in documenting fire scene photographs, preparing Photo-Log for the Fire Investigation Report and some photography tips. This will be followed by questions and
answers regarding this lesson and the conclusion.
However, please stop me if you have anything to clarify during the lesson.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Participants will be able
to document and use
fire scene photographs effectively
in Fire Investigative Reports.
The objectives of this lesson is:
Participants will be able to document and use fire scene photography effectively in Fire Investigative Reports.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
identify the importance of thorough and
accurate documentation of fire scene
through photography;
prepare and use photographs effectively

in Fire Investigative Reports.
i.e. by the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
1 identify the importance of thorough and accurate documentation of fire scene through photography: and
2 prepare and use photographs effectively in Fire Investigative Report/s.

INTRODUCTION
Investigator’s goal to record scene to recall his/her
observation. Method of accomplishing goal include
the use of photographs.
Thorough and accurate recording of the scene is critical
compilation of factual data

most efficient reminders
overlooked patterns and items may become evident
As many photographs should be taken as necessary to

adequately document and record the fire scene.
Fire investigator’s goal is to record the scene through medium that will allow the investigator to recall his/her observations at later date and to document the
conditions at the scene. The most common method of accomplishing his goal is the use of photographs.
Thorough and accurate recording of the scene is critical because it is from compilation of factual data that investigative opinions and conclusion will be developed
and supported.
They are most efficient reminders of what the investigator saw while at the scene.
Patterns and items may become evidence that were overlooked at the time the photographs were taken.
Another thing to note is, take as many photographs as necessary to adequately document and record the fire scene.
BASIC
PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT
These are some of he basic equipment for fire scene photography:
1 35mm single lens reflex (SLR) camera preferably with normal lens (e.g. 28 to 80mm);
2 Camera flashlight - most often fire scene photography are inside structure or an enclosure where sunlight or domestic light source are absence;
3 Spare batteries for camera and flash light;
4 135 colour film rolls of assorted exposures 12, 24 and 36;
5 Markers i.e. set of number tags to number evidentiary items/objects at scene; alphabet tags for marking areas/locations. Next, musking tape/ribbon and chalk to mark evidentiary items/objects;
6 Tripod that will allow for a more consistent mosaics photography, alleviate inconvenient when using camera on manual mode and keep camera free from fire debris; and
7 Floodlight is useful because burnt area has poor reflective property.
8 At this moment, the use of digital cameras is not allowed in taking fire scene photography. The images from digital cameras are not accepted for the Fire Investigation Report as it can be tampered/adjusted accordingly.
COMPOSITION & TECHNIQUES
When to document?
As soon as possible
building may collapse or demolish
environmental danger
overhauling/removing layers of debris
When to Document the fire scene?
Time is important factor in taking fire scene photographs. It should be taken as soon as practical after a fire as the scene may become altered, disturbed or even
destroyed. Some reasons why time is important are:
1 Building be demolished for safety reasons;
2 Condition of building contents creates an environmental hazard that needs immediate attention;
3 Evidence must be documented when discovered as layers of debris are removed, similar to an archaeological dig. Documenting the layers can also assist in
understanding the course of the fire.
What to document?
Fire damages
Burn Patterns
Area/Point of Fire Origin
Evidence
What to Document?
You are to document:
a Fire Damages and Burn Patterns - this will assist investigators in establishing clear picture on the fire evolution and substantiate the Area of Fire Origin;
b Area and Point of Fire Origin - the main area of fire scene photography and use to substantiate investigator’s theory on fire origin and cause;
c Evidence - items/objects at the fire scene that support investigator’s theory on probable cause of fire such as break-in, position of doors, windows,
heating equipment, electric circuit breakers, incendiary devices, etc;
What to document?
The Fire
Crowd & People
Fixed Installation
d Fire in Progress -photograph of fire in progress should be taken if opportunity exists. These help to show fire progression as well as fire suppression activities.
Overhaul phase often involves moving of the contents and sometime structural elements. Photographing the overhaul phase will assist in understanding the scene
before the fire.
e Crowd and People - Photographs people in crowd may be valuable for identifying individuals who may have additional knowledge that can be valuable
to the overall investigation;
and
f Fixed Installation - Photographs the fire protection devices such as detectors, sprinklers, portable fire extinguishers used, etc. They may served as
indicator on activities happened during or prior the fire.
How to document?
Exterior Photographs Victim Photographs
Structural Photographs Witness Viewpoint

Photographs
Interior Photographs
Aerial Photographs
Evidence Photographs
Mosaics of Photographs
How to document?
Photographs may be the most persuasive factor in the acceptance of the fire investigator’s theory of the fire’s evolution.
Now, let us look on how to document fire scene photographs. The purpose and techniques of documenting: Exterior Photographs, Structural Photographs, Interior
Photographs, Evidence Photographs, Victims Photographs, Witness Viewpoint Photographs, Aerial Photographs and Mosaics of Photographs.
EXTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHS
Establish location of fire
Surrounding would represent remote evidence
BUILDING
VEHICLE
A series of exterior shots should be taken to establish the location of the fire scene. This will include street signs, access streets, numerical address or landmarks that
can be readily identified and are likely to remain for some time. Surrounding areas that would represent remote evidence, such as fire protection and exposure
damage, should also be photographed. Exterior photographs should be taken from all sides and corners of a structure to reveal all structural members and their
relationships with each other. The same technique applies when taking photographs of other entities, such as vehicle fires, etc.
3
REAR
THE
TERRACE
AFFECTED
FACTORY
UNIT AREA OF
FIRE ORIGIN
FRONT X
EVIDENCE
1 2 PHOTO 3
AREA OF
FIRE ORIGIN
EVIDENCE
PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2
This is an example of an exterior photography. These photos were taken from the front and rear side of the affected premise (Photos 1 and 3). It shows the company’s
name of the affected premise. Remote evidence on pried collapsible metal door at the neighboring unit near the fire site, that may be related to the fire was also
photographed (Photo 2).
3 1
2
PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3
Example of exterior photography involving vehicle. Note, photograph showing the vehicle’s registration plate that must not be missed or neglected (Photo 3).
2
3
PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3
This is another example of exterior photography involving vehicles showing the parking lot where the incident occurred, the registration plate and damages of the
affected vehicle and other vehicle/s in the vicinity (Photos 1 and 2).
Let us look at Photo 3. This was an incendiary case. The fire was started outside the car near the front passenger seat. If this photo was not taken, viewer may have the
impression that the fire started from the engine compartment as shown in Photos 1 and 2.
STRUCTURAL PHOTOGRAPHS
Document the damages to the structure after the heat
and flame exposure
Can expose burn patterns to track evolution of the fire
BUILDING
Now let us look at the structural photographs.
Structural photographs document the damage to the structure after the heat and flame exposure. Structural photos can expose burn patterns to track the evolution of
the fire and can assist in understanding the fire origin.
A recommended procedure is to include as much as possible all exterior angles and views of the structure. Photographs should be taken from all angles as necessary
for a full explanation of a condition.
Photographs of structure failures such as windows, roof or walls should also be taken because such failure can change the route of fire travel and play a significant
roll in the eventual outcome of the fire.
The photo on this slide shows burn pattern on the wall (line of demarcation as a result of fire development and spalling of wall) indicating fire spread from the room
on the right side of the photograph to the other room on the left side.
INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHS
THE
AFFECTED
UNIT
Document damages, burn patterns

and ventilation points
Document contents, position of

doors and windows during the fire
Most important the area/point of

fire origin
Interior photographs is equally important.
All ventilation point accessed or created by the fire should be photographed as well as smoke, heat and burn patterns.
Room within the immediate area of the fire origin should be photographed even there is minimal damage.
The contents, electric clock/s, position of doors and windows during the fire are important and should be photographed.
The most important is the area or point of fire origin.
These photos were taken after the fire in a single storey terrace factory used as a car workshop. It shows the general view of the damages at the entire workshop.
EVIDENCE PHOTOGRAPHS
Document item/s of evidentiary value
Mark/number the evidence
In taking evidence photographs, iItems of evidentiary value should be photographed at the location found.
Mark the evidence/s before taking photographs as it will facilitate identifying the item/s and when writing the fire investigative report.
During excavation/overhauling of the debris, articles in the debris may or may not be recognised as evidence. If photographs are taken in archaeological manner, the
location and position of evidence that can be of vital importance will be documented permanently.
Evidence collected can

be photographed again
in investigator’s office or
laboratory for details
Items of evidentiary value can be collected and photographed again at the investigator’s office or laboratory if a more detail view is needed. But remember to
photograph the item at its original position before collecting it.
These photographs shows evidence of overheating along the electric circuit of the affected premise. Evidentiary item, a 13A twin outlets socket was first
photographed at its actual location. Then, the item was dismantled and photographed again using Photomicrographic Equipment in FIU. Localised internal heating
was observed on only one part of the wiring to support overheating along the electric circuit.
The evidence/exhibit The evidence/exhibit photographed

found at scene using photomicrographiic equipment
These photos showing evidence of electrical overheating on electric fuse. The first photo was taken at the incident site showing spattering and melting of additional
copper wire fixed on the fuse. The next two photographs were taken in FIU using Photomicrographic equipment to show microscopic view on the spattering and
melting of the copper wire.
Document scene in
sequence when collecting
evidence/exhibit for
analysis
The evidence/exhibit
found at scene
When collecting evidence from fire scene for analysis, document the scene in sequence i.e. the evidence at location where it was found, before collecting and after
collecting, preferably photograph the item/s inside the evidence can before sealing the can.
VICTIM PHOTOGRAPHS
Fire scene involving dead body:
Photographed the body at the location found
Body must not be moved prior arrival of SIS/Pathologist
In fire scene photography involving dead body, the body should be photographed at location where it was found. The body must not be moved prior the arrival of
Police Special Investigation Section personnel and Pathologist.
WITNESS VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS
ANNEX C1
INCIDENT NUMBER: 20010411/0023
LOCATION OF FIRE: M/S CHAI AH KEE FURNITURE WORKS
BLK 1022 EUNOS AVENUE 3 #01-42
BAC K LAN E
TOILET
PRAYING
ALTAR STORE
TIMBERS
#01-42
#01-44 #01-40
M/S CHONG HING TIMBERS M/S BEST INDUSTRIAL
TIMBERS
UP
CONTRACTOR
W1
WORKING
TABLE
TIMBERS
W1
MATTRESS
COLLAPSIBLE METAL DOORS COLLAPSIBLE METAL DOORS
Orientate persons involved with the
TIMBERS
TIMBERS
TIMBERS IN
STORAGE
investigation on direction of
FLOODLIGHTS COMPARTMENT
TIMBERS
TOTOTA
witnesses’ observation
LOADING
LOADING PICK-UP LOADING LOADING
TIMBERS
BAY
TIMBERS
BAY YG8780X BAY BAY
RUBBISH
BIN
NISSAN N
PICK-UP
GQ4980Y
EUNOS AVENUE 3 NOT TO SCALE
LEGEND:
SKETCH:
FIRE AFFECTED AREA
AREA OF FIRE ORIGIN
FIRST STOREY PLAN LOCATION OF WITNESS
W1
Now, what is witness viewpoint photographs and its purpose?
If during an investigation witness surface and give testimony as to what they observed from a certain vantage point, a photograph should be taken from the most
identical view available.
The photograph will orientate all persons involved with the investigation as well as a jury to the direction of the witnesses’ observation and could support or refuse the
possibility of them seeing what they said and saw.
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
Often revealed fire spread pattern
Problem may exists and affect photo quality
What is Aerial Photographs?
The view from high vantage point, which can be an aerial fire appliance, adjacent building, etc. can often reveal fire spread pattern.
Look at the first photo on the left. There were two separate burn patterns observed in this photo. One is a ‘V-shape’ burn pattern at the centre of the wall (extending from the bottom of the wall to the roof area) near the
entrance door. The other burn pattern was a surface burn and clean burn patterns on the wall at the right side of the photo.
It was believed that the fire originated near the entrance door where the ‘V-shape’ was observed. It was an incendiary case.
The other pattern on the right side of the photo was caused by the burning of fire load at the location.
This can only be achieved by using aerial photograph. Investigators may not be able to observe and analyse the burn patterns if the investigation was conducted at the ground level due to obstructions by the collapsed roof.
Aerial photography can be expensive, and a number of problems exists that can affect the quality of the result. The second photograph was an example of such photos, where the photo was obliterated.
MOSAICS OF PHOTOGRAPHS
Useful when
sufficient wide
angle lens is not
available
Benchmark
Needs to identify
bench marks
Another way of documenting fire scene is by using mosaics of photographs.
This can be useful at times when a sufficient wide angle lens is not available and a panoramic view is desired. This is created by assembling a number of photographs
in overlay form to give a more than peripheral view of an area. An investigator needs to identify items (bench marks) in the edge of the view finder that will appear in
the print and take the next photograph with that same reference point on the opposite side of the view finder. The two prints can then be combined to obtain a wider
view than the camera is capable of taking in a single shots.
Photographs assembled using overlay
These two photographs from the previous slide were assembled using overlay.
Clean Burn Line of demarcation
Another two photographs to show mosaic of photographs.
Burn patterns on these two photographs could not be clearly seen.

Photographs assembled using overlay
However, using Mosaic Photograph, the clean burn mark was observed on the low left hand corner of the photograph to indicate the probable Area of Fire Origin. The
line of demarcation resulting from the fire development can be seen extending from the Area of Fire Origin upwards to the right side of the photograph.
SEQUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
WIDE
1 2 3 X
Understanding relationship of
a small subject at its relative
position in a known area
PHOTO 1
MEDIUM CLOSE-UP
PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3
Sequential photos helps in understanding the relationship of a small subject at its relative position in a known area.
The subject is first photographed from distance position where it is shown in context with its surrounding. Additional photographs are then taken increasingly closer
until the subject be the focus of the entire frame (Wide, medium and close-up shots).
SEQUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
WIDE MEDIUM CLOSE-UP
MEDIUM
Use number tag/s to mark

evidence/s
Another example of sequential photographs. Here, there were several items of evidentiary value found at the scene.
Start with wide angle shot, followed by medium and close-up shots. Remember to use numbering tags, markers and pointer as necessary. The use of number tags and
markers will assist in identifying the exhibits especially in the Fire Investigation Report Writing.
Document series of photographs to portray the
structure and contents that remains at the fire scene
work from the outside towards the inside of the

structure
from unburned towards the heaviest burned area
concluding photographs usually at the area and point

of fire origin
useful to document the entire fire scene
A series of photographs should be taken to portray the structure and contents that remains at the fire scene.
Series photographs working from the outside towards the inside of the structure as well as from unburned towards the heaviest burned area (similar to the method you
conduct fire scene investigation).
The concluding photographs usually of the area and point of fire origin.
Useful to document the entire scene. Not just the suspected point of fire origin. It may be necessary to show the degree of smoke spread or evidence of unburned
areas.
PREPARING
THE
PHOTO-LOG
Now, let us look into ways of preparing the Table of Photo-Log (Annex D), Photo-Log (Annex E) and the Photographs (Annex F) that will be incorporated in the Fire
Investigation Report.
Photo-Log assist in orientation when review by someone unfamiliar with the fire scene.
-CONFIDENTIAL-
ANNEX E
PHOTO-LOG 20
(ANNEX E)
Copy completed Floor 2

UP
Plan of Annex C as 22
Annex E 12
16
9
13
11
6 5 4 8
14
10
Insert directional arrow/

7
21
s 2
3
N
Indicate photographs EUNOS AVENUE 3
NOT TO SCALE
1
number/s SKETCH: LEGEND:
PHOTO-LOG X
DIRECTION OF
(PHOTOS NO. 1 TO 16 AND 20 TO 22) PHOTO TAKEN
E-1
-CONFIDENTIAL-
How to prepare Photo-Log?
First, copy the completed floor plan (Annex C in the Fire Investigation Report) as Annex E. The only different between Annex C and Annex E is that, Annex E is
without details description as in Annex C.
Next, insert directional arrow to show direction from which each of the photograph was taken.
Next, insert the photograph number as shown of the screen.

-CONFIDENTIAL- ANNEX F
PHOTOGRAPHS
(ANNEX F)
Prepare Annex F
Paste the photographs

PHOTO 1 CD/277/01/01A
The incident occurred in front of unit #01-42.
Indicate corresponding
numbers on photographs
Indicate the negative

numbers
PHOTO 2 CD/277/01/32A
Caption the photographs The incident site viewed from different direction.
F-1
-CONFIDENTIAL-
Prepare Annex F for the selected Photographs.
First, paste the photographs on the Annex.
Next, indicate the corresponding number on the photograph.
Next, indicate the negative number on the photograph.

(The negative number is to facilitate in duplicating the photographs when the needs arise and also identifying the sequence of photographs taken at the scene).
And then, caption the photograph.

-CONFIDENTIAL- ANNEX F
PHOTOGRAPHS INCIDENT NUMBER: 20010411/0023

(ANNEX F)
To highlight item/indicator on
photograph such as Area of DEEP
CHARRING
Fire Origin
Duplicate the photograph

DEEP
Place the photograph next CHARRING
or below the original copy
Mark on the copy of

PHOTO 5 CD/278/01/26A COPY OF PHOTO 5
photograph
Deep charring were observed on the timbers and the storage
compartment.
Use ‘O’ only to mark Area/ LEGEND

Point of Fire Origin AREA OF
F-3 FIRE ORIGIN
-CONFIDENTIAL-
In the case when there is a need to highlight item/s or indicator/s on photograph, such as marking on the Point/Area of Fire Origin, duplicate the photograph and mark
the required marking on the copy of the photograph.
Paste the original photograph next to the copied photograph.
Remember, used only circle ‘O’ marking to indicate Point/Area of Fire Origin. Mark ‘O’ should not be used for other indicators in photographs or other Annexes
in the Fire Investigation Report.
-CONFIDENTIAL-
ANNEX D
TABLE OF PHOTO-LOG TABLE OF PHOTO-LOG
(ANNEX D) Photo* Roll Number/
Number Negative Frame Number Captions
1 CD/277/01/1 The incident occurred in front

Prepare Annex D of unit #01-42.
2 CD/277/01/32A The incident site viewed from

different direction.
Indicate 3 CD/279/01/6A The timber in front of the unit
were damaged.
photo numbers 4 CD/278/01/31A The damaged timber viewed

from different direction.
5 CD/278/01/26A Deep charring were observed

negative numbers on the timbers and the
storage compartment.
Area of Fire Origin.

the captions 6
D-1
-CONFIDENTIAL-
Next, prepare Annex D, the Table of Photo-Log.
Indicate the photos number, negative numbers and captions on all the photographs used for the Fire Investigation Report/s. The negative numbers and the captions can
be simply copied from Annex F (the photographs) and pate on the respective columns in Annex F.
Table of Photo-Log is a list or index for the photographs used in the Fire Investigation Report.
PHOTOGRAPHIC TIPS
Know your camera
Auto/Manual mode
Date Indicator
Dial Function
Check flashlight
Carry extra batteries (Camera & flashlight)
Sufficient film rolls, various exposure
Do not combine multiple fire in one roll
Note sequence of negative used
Next, know your camera before taking photograph.
Be familiar with the camera functions. Check the operation mode(Auto/Manual) before shooting. Ensure the date on the indicator is correct. Preferably, switch-off the
date indicator to avoid possible error. Check your flashlight. When camera is focus and ready to shoot, both eyes should be opened to determine if the flash went off.
Carry enough extra batteries for the camera and flashlight.
Have sufficient film rolls with you, do not combine multiple fires in one roll.
Note the sequence on movement of negatives frame used when taking photographs. In some cameras, the sequence of negatives frame starts from small to big number
(e.g. frame 1 to 36) and the other from big to small (e.g. frame 36 to 1). This is important to determine the sequence of events or activities took placed during fire
scene investigation, particularly during overhauling process.
PHOTOGRAPHIC TIPS
When using assistant photographer,
the angles and photo composition
need to be supervised
by fire investigator
Most importantly, when using assistant photographer, the angles and photo composition need to be supervised by the fire investigator.
QUESTIONS
&
ANSWERS

CONCLUSION
Thorough and accurate documentation of fire

scene photograph is essential.
Photographs may be the most persuasive factor

in the acceptance of the fire investigator’s theory
of the fire evolution.
In conclusion, thorough and accurate documentation of fire scene photograph is essential.
The photographs may be the most persuasive factor in the acceptance of fire investigator’s theory of the fire evolution.
‘A picture says a thousand words.’
Thank you.
FIRE SCENE
INVESTIGATION

Where to begin? What to look for?
When to start? How to go about?
Look at this photo.
If you as an investigator and tasked to investigate the cause of fire:
•Where to begin?
•Where to start?
•What to look for?
•How to go about it?

Scope
 Introduction
 Fire Investigation - Health and Safety
 Fire Investigation Process
 Fire Scene Examination
 Tools, Equipment, K9
 Fire Scene Documentation
 Conclusion

FIRE SAFETY & INVESTIGATION TRAINING CENTRE
Scope
•Introduction
•Fire Investigation - Health and Safety
•Fire Investigation Process
•Fire Scene Examination
•Tools, Equipment, K9
•Fire Scene Documentation
•Conclusion
Learning Objectives
 Aware of fire scene hazards and the
safety precautions to take during a
fire scene investigation.
 Understanding the fire investigation
process and its application for a
systematic fire scene investigation.
Learning Objectives
•Aware of fire scene hazards and the safety precautions to take during a fire scene investigation.
•Understanding the fire investigation process and its application for a systematic fire scene investigation.
Introduction
Fire investigators have a duty and responsibility to:
 conduct a safe fire scene investigation
 know what to be collected upon arrival at the

scene
 Understand the necessity for proper fire

scene security
 the structural conditions of the burned

structure
 the importance of proper fire scene

documentation
Introduction
• Fire investigators have a duty and responsibility to themselves and to others to conduct a safe fire scene investigation.
• Fire investigator must know what information is to be collected upon arrival at the fire scene.
• He also must understand the necessity for proper fire scene security.
• How exterior structural conditions of the burned structure may affect the examination of the incident.
• The importance of proper fire scene documentation.

Health & Safety
 Fire Scene Hazards
 Respiratory Hazards
 Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen
Oxide
 Structural Hazards
 Unstable/Weaken Structure, Electrical
Hazards, Gas Leakage
 Hazardous Substances
 Remain of Unburned Chemicals, Radioactive
Materials, Insecticides & Pesticides
Fire Investigator Safety
Explain the various fire scene hazards while conducting fire scene examination (give examples on hazards of personal experience).
a. Respiratory Hazards: Give examples of common combustible materials will give off toxic gases when exposed or involved in fire.
b. Structural Hazards: Explain the hazards associate to the stability of the structure during fire suppression activities, utility hazards, electrical hazards and unprotected opening hazards.
c. Hazardous Substances: Explain various types of hazardous substances associated with structural fire such as:
PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyl(s)

Chemical fires
Insecticides and pesticides
Toxic gases and smoke
Nuclear hazards
Health & Safety
 Fire Investigator Safety

 Avoid working alone
 Proper protective equipment
 gloves, helmets, respiratory protection etc...
 Allow cooling and adequate ventilation

 Be alert and aware of unstable structure
 Power utilities are off
1. Fire investigation can be more complex than fire suppression. Investigators find themselves examining more areas than those actually involved in the fire,
spending more time processing the fire scene, conducting detailed scene examination, and sifting through the debris. Thus, they are exposed to a variety of
hazards and usually are subject to continuous physical exertion.
2. Fire Investigators have a tendency to ignore personal safety in their effort to determine the origin and cause of the fire. However, personal safety should be a top
priority. Analysis of the exterior of the building must be done continuously while conducting exterior scene investigation. Similarly, prior to the interior
examination, the occupancy must be determined safe to work in by conferring with the Incident Commander or requesting an inspector from building and safety.
Prior to going inside, ensure that the atmosphere has been analyzed and is safe. Confirm that utilities are off prior to examining any electrical circuit, appliance, or
wiring.
3. Avoid working alone. If an accident occurs, no one may be present to help. Also , if you encounter a hostile witness or a suspect, backup may be required.
4. Use proper personal protective equipment at all times, including approved boots with steel toe and midsole, gloves, helmet or hardhat, respiratory protection (Self-
Contained
Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or particle respirators), eye protection, and a work uniform. Finally, do not eat or drink at the fire scene.
Fire Investigation Process
 Determine the area or point of fire origin – where
the fire began.
 Determine the material that was first ignited (fuel)
and the source of the heat that caused the
ignition.
 Identify factors that brought the heat and fuel
together.
•Determine the area or point of fire origin – where the fire began.
•Determine the material that was first ignited (fuel) and the source of the heat that caused the ignition.
•Identify factors that brought the heat and fuel together.

This the flow chart on Fire Investigation Process.


Fire Scene Examination
What types of tools & equipment do you

need to carry out a effective scene
examination?
Explain the types of tools and equipment presently used by SCDF in conducting fire investigation.
-Continue with the following slides-

Type of Equipment
Digital Distance
Measuring Device
Digital Measuring Device
This measuring device is used to obtained measurements of the burned units or premises which is critical when doing fire modeling. The device can also be used to
measure distance between the physical evidence found at the scene and the area of fire origin, especially in incendiary cases.
Type of Equipment
Metal Detector
Metal Detector
This equipment can be used to trace remnants of metal parts from severely burned devices at the fire scene. The remnants of the metal parts maybe useful as evidence
in supporting the cause of fire.
Type of Equipment
Digital Multimeter
Digital Multimeter
This equipment is useful in investigating fire cause electrical origin such as checking the condition of electrical fuses, continuity of electrical circuits, etc. at the fire
incident site.
Type of Equipment
Heavy duty
Thermometers
Heavy Duty Thermometers
This portable equipment is used to measure temperatures on items at fire investigation scene that could be used in determining and supporting the cause of fire.
Type of Equipment
AC Line Voltage Detector
AC Line Voltage Dectector
This equipment is used the check the conditions of electrical wires and machines, whether current supply is still flowing, for safety reason.
Type of Equipment
AC Line Voltage Detector
Photos showing the used of AC Line Voltage Detector.

Type of Equipment
Handheld Infra-red Thermometer
Handheld Infra-red Thermometer
This equipment is used to measure temperature on surfaces or items from distance.

Type of Equipment
Wire Circuit Tracing System
Wire Circuit Tracing System
This equipment is used to trace or check the continuity of electric circuits.

Type of Equipment
Hydrocarbon
Gas Detector
Hydrocarbon Gas Detector
This equipment is used to trace the probable presence of ignitable liquid used as accelerant by fire setters in incendiary cases.
Type of Equipment
Vac-U Chamber Gas

Sampling Kit
Vac-U Chamber Gas Sampling Kit
This equipment is used to collect flammable gases from manhole, tanks, etc. for analysis. The gas can be collected using a 2.5 litres or 5 litres bags.
FI-K9
Fire Investigation Dogs (FI-K9)
Other than the portable investigation equipment mentioned earlier, FI-K9 were also used to trace the probable presence of ignitable liquid used accelerant at he fire
site, especially at large fire affected area.
 Where to Start?
Now, look at this photo.
Can you tell me Where and How to start the fire scene investigation.
Gather Preliminary Information
 Upon Activation
 Time & Methods of Alarm
 Time of fire reported
 Particulars and information from the informant
Time and method of alarms are also critical information. Times play an important part in the investigation, because the investigator may be able to show an
abnormality between the time the fire was report and the amount of fire at the time of the first arrival of fire suppression units. The investigator should interview the
person(s) reporting the fire. Also it is important to note the time the first suppression unit arrived.
 Upon Arrival
 Location of fire, extent of fire
development
 Wind direction and speed
 Direction & rate of fire spread
 Color of flame and smoke
The structure may suffer extensive damage after the arrival of the investigator. Such information helps eliminate wasted time and effort in determining the origin of the fire. Remember that areas of
extensive damage may not indicate the area of origin; this may cause by fire suppression efforts. In addition, a fire still can result in a total loss even after the fire is thought to be under control.
Ascertain whether there was complete or partial collapse of the structure.

a was there ignition or exposure of flammable or hazardous materials?
b were there reports of an explosion?
c were firefighters forced to back out due to fast fire spread?
Weather conditions should also be recorded. Note wind direction and speed, and compare it with the direction of fire travel. Wind may account for the intensity and/or spread of fire.
Color of flames and smoke: color of smoke may indicate the type of material being burned. Complete combustion often produces little or no smoke, while dense smoke often indicates incomplete
combustion. Flame color may indicate the type of material being burned. As the amount of hydrocarbons increase the flames will become darker or more orange in color. A lack of oxygen usually
causes flames to be darker than when the same fuel is burned in a well-ventilated area.
Extreme caution is required when using color of smoke and flames as an indicator. Remember, the investigator often arrives on the scene during the latter stages of the fire, and may observe smoke
colors that relate to materials burning in the latter stages, which will give false indicators. Also, most occupancies contain fuels with hydrocarbon bases which, when burning, may produce smoke and/
or flames which can mislead the investigator.
 Fire Fighting & Rescue Operations
 Availability and conditions of fire
protection systems
 Forcible entry
 Speed of fire spread
 Considering the load of unit, unusually fast?
 Separate and seemingly unrelated fires
 Unusual odors
 gasoline, kerosene, petrol, lacquer etc...
Fire suppression personnel can provide information about the condition of windows and doors, and whether forcible entry was made prior to or by fire crews. They
can provide information on suppression tactics, such as whether there were any unusual odors, how the fire reacted to the application of water, whether they saw,
heard, or found any devices, the location of the fire at their time of arrival, etc.
 Overhaul Operations
 Any overhaul operations were conducted

prior to investigator’s arrival
 If objects were removed?

 What was removed?
 From where and by whom?
The incident commander should be informed of special needs, such as a delay in overhaul, additional equipment (such as lighting, or analysis equipment), or scene security. It often is easier to obtain
manpower and equipment prior to the departure of fire crew than it is to request fire appliances to return to the scene.
The investigator should solicit specific information from the incident commander regarding fire suppression activities such as:
• placement of fire appliances;

• assignment giiven to units;
• identification of units on scene;
• strategy/tactics employed;
• unusual odors noted;
• hoseline placement;
Find out if any overhaul operations were conducted prior to your arrival.
Did fire suppression units use wet water (chemical additive) or foam to suppress the fire?
If objects were removed, what was removed, from where, and by whom?
 Interviewing witnesses
 Interviewing and
questioning witnesses
(First arriving officers,
fire fighters, informant,
victims and other
witnesses etc…) to
gather information and
The person(s) who discovered the fire must be interviewed, as must owners, occupants, witnesses, police officers, contractors, and emergency medical
personnel. Each story should be compared; variations will result with respect to time of discovery. Witnesses will observe the fire in different stages and from the
different locations, which will cause discrepancies in the accounts of their observations.
 Fire Investigation
 Interviewing and questioning witnesses
(First arriving officers, fire fighters,
informant, victims and other witnesses
etc…).
 Investigating the site - scene
examination.
Fire Scene Investigation involved:
•Interviewing and questioning witnesses (First arriving officers, fire fighters, informant, victims and other witnesses etc…).
•Investigating the site - scene examination.
Witness Interviews + Site Investigation
Locate Point / Area of Fire Origin
Determine Cause of Fire

Accidental
Incendiary

 Witness Interviews
Obtain useful information from eye-witnesses, owner(s)/
occupant(s), first arriving SCDF crews, injured victims in hospital,
etc.
 Where was the fire first seen?
 What was the extent of the fire at that time?
 What time did the witness first see the fire?
 Did the witness see flames and/or smoke?
 Were any windows broken?
 Did the witness see or smell anything unusual?
 Did the fire spread in any particular direction?
 Were there any explosions?
 Was anyone seen leaving the building?
 Were the doors and/or windows shut?
 Did the fire spread in any particular direction?
 Were any materials removed from the fire?
 Any previous history of fires?
 Were any equipment switched on?
 Insurance coverage?
 Etc…
Witness Interviews
When interviewing witnesses, obtain useful information from eye-witnesses, owner(s)/occupant(s), first arriving SCDF crews, injured victims in hospital, etc.such as:
•Where was the fire first seen?

•What was the extent of the fire at that time?
•What time did the witness first see the fire?
•Did the witness see flames and/or smoke?
•Were any windows broken?
•Did the witness see or smell anything unusual?
•Did the fire spread in any particular direction?
•Were there any explosions?
•Was anyone seen leaving the building?
•Were the doors and/or windows shut?
•Did the fire spread in any particular direction?
•Were any materials removed from the fire?
•Any previous history of fires?
•Were any equipment switched on?
•Insurance coverage?
•Etc…
Information obtained is used to:
 Establish fire load of incident site.
 Reconstruct fire scene.
 Establish any possible (arson) motives, eg. fraud, crime
concealment, etc.
 Complement site investigation to determine the point/
area of fire origin and cause of the fire.
The purpose of obtaining information from witnesses is used to:
•Establish fire load of incident site.

•Reconstruct fire scene.
•Establish any possible (arson) motives, e.g. fraud, crime concealment, etc.
•Complement site investigation to determine the point/area of fire origin and cause of the fire.
 Site Investigation (Scene Examination)
Investigating the fire site (w/o bias or presumption) to
determine the point of fire origin via:
Backwards Theory.
Re-construction of fire scene.
Investigative excavation of fire site.
Burn patterns/pattern indicators analysis.
Location of maximum fire damage.
Spalling/damage to plaster/walls/ceiling.
Distortion of metal items/structures.
Separate/multiple points of fire origin.
Remains of incendiary devices.
Presence of accelerants/ignitable liquids.
Explosion evidence.
Tampering & damage to fire protection facilities
Etc…
Site Investigation (Scene Examination)
Investigating the fire site (w/o bias or presumption) to determine the point of fire origin via:
•Backwards Theory.
•Re-construction of fire scene.
•Investigative excavation of fire site.
•Burn patterns/pattern indicators analysis.
•Location of maximum fire damage.
•Spalling/damage to plaster/walls/ceiling.
•Distortion of metal items/structures.
•Separate/multiple points of fire origin.
•Remains of incendiary devices.
•Presence of accelerants/ignitable liquids.
•Explosion evidence.
•Tampering & damage to fire protection facilities
•Etc…
 The “Backwards Theory”
 a systematic investigation process
 from exterior to the interior
 from least damaged areas to the most
heavily damaged areas
The ‘Backwards Theory’
In determining the origin and cause of a fire, the ‘Backwards Theory’ provides a systematic investigative process that ensures the total occupancy is investigated.
A backwards investigation is conducted from the exterior to the interior, and from the lease damage areas to the most heavily damaged area. Be sure to examine the
entire occupancy, even rooms or areas where no fire damage, and fire patterns, including ‘V’ patterns, glass, char, line of demarcation, spalling, and calcination.
 Exterior Examination
 examine the area for evidence
of exterior ignition sources
 search for evidence of fire
origin and/or fire spread from
outside to inside of the
structure
 observe exterior fire patterns,
heat or smoke damaged
Exterior Examination
An exterior examination of structure should be conducted. Try to view the occupancy from above, such as from an adjacent high building or aerial ladder. This may
allow you to see various indicators.
Examine the area for evidence of exterior ignition sources. Search for evidence of the fire origin and/or fire spread the outside to the inside of the structure.
Observe exterior fire, heat, fire patterns or smoke damage.
 examine the area for
use of liquid accelerant
 downwards burning of
exterior surfaces
 look for accelerant
containers
 evidence of forcible
entry
 position of door (open
or close)
Examine the area for the use of liquid accelerants.
Downward burning on exterior surfaces, such as doorways and beneath window sills, may indicate the use of accelerants.
Look for flammable containers or containers which could have been used to transport liquid accelerants to the scene.
Note evidence of forcible entry.
Record and photograph the condition of doors, windows, and locks.
Note evidence of individuals having traveled in the area, such as shoe prints or tire tracks.
 Interior Examination
 work from least
damage to worst
damage area
 analyse fire flow and
damage area
Interior Examination
The interior examination should also be conducted in a ‘systematic backwards investigation,’ in order to provide a logical approach to determine the origin of the fire,
and then to determine the cause.
Search for, identify, record, and photograph all evidence and note its location in a rough fire scene sketch. The investigator can never take too many photographs of a
fire scene sketch.
Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Photographs and sketches of the scene make excellent visual aids.
If the cause is accidental, determine all facts concerning the incident according to formalised department directive.
If the cause is incendiary, continue the investigation to determine all facts concerning the incident according to formalised department directive.
 Determining the Point of Fire Origin
 It is seldom possible to identify the cause of fire

without having located the point of fire origin
 Establishing the point of fire origin is often a

process of elimination
 Examination of the area with the most extensive

burning
Determining the Point of Fire Origin
•It is seldom possible to identify the cause of fire without having located the point of fire origin
•Establishing the point of fire origin is often a process of elimination
•Examination of the area with the most extensive burning

 Determining the PFO
 Reconstruction of the
Fire Scene
 Excavation at Fire
Scene
 establish the area/point

of fire origin
 Determine the cause of

fire
•Reconstruction of the Fire Scene
•Excavation at Fire Scene
•establish the area/point of fire origin
•Determine the cause of fire

 Reconstruction of the Fire Scene

 What : Establish the exact positions of
all articles of furniture at the time of the
fire.
 How : Replace furniture that has been
rearranged or removed during fire
fighting operations. Match up furniture
posts with marks on the floor or
protected area.
Reconstruction is the act of finding the points of origin and reconstructing the fire scene. Replace doors and furnishings; match up furniture posts with marks on the floor. If necessary, seek the assistance of fire fighters, owners, and
occupants. When possible, examine other rooms or buildings with similar layouts and/or features.
Fire scene reconstruction can fit in anywhere during the examination process. The scene examination and reconstruction process are interwoven. Reconstruction not only involves replacing furnishings, but entails validating the fire indicators
through interviews with fire fighters, owners, occupants, neighbours, law enforcement, medical personnel, and witnesses.
Fire suppression personnel can provide information about the condition of windows and doors, and whether forcible entry was made prior to or by fire crews. They can provide information on suppression tactics, such as whether there were any
unusual odors, how the fire reacted to the application of water, whether they saw, heard, or found any devices, the location of the fire at their time of arrival, etc.
The person(s) who discovered the fire must be interviewed, as must owners, occupants, witnesses, police officers, contractors, and emergency medical personnel. Each story should be compared; variations will result with respect to time
of discovery. Witnesses will observe the fire in different stages and from the different locations, which will cause discrepancies in the accounts of their observations.
Reconstruction of Fire Scene
• What is the purpose? : Establish the exact positions of all articles of furniture at the time of the fire.
• How can it be done? : Replace furniture that has been rearranged or removed during fire fighting operations. Match up furniture posts with marks on the floor or protected area.
 Why : Establish fire load. Fire

Spread. Burn patterns. Any
items removed/lost prior to the
fire. Point(s) of fire origin.
 When : Anytime/anywhere
during the scene examination.
 Who : Fire Fighters, Owners/
Occupants.
•Why need to reconstruct? : Establish fire load. Fire Spread. Burn patterns. Any items removed/lost prior to the fire. Point(s) of fire origin.
•When can it be done? : Anytime/anywhere during the scene examination.
•Who can assist? : Fire Fighters, Owners/Occupants.

 Excavation at Fire Scene
(Investigative Excavation)
 Investigating fire debris layer by layer
 Debris originating from different sources may

be expected to fall at different stages during
the course of a fire
 Seat of fire likely to be buried beneath debris

e.g. roof tiles, charred wood, glass etc.
 Determine the cause of fire (probable events

that lead to ignition of the fire)
Investigative Excavation at Fire Scene.
In conducting investigative excavation at fire scene, the excavation of fire debris need to be carried out and photographed layer by layer. This process is to ensure that
every parts of the fire debris excavated were carefully examine and recorded.
Debris originating from different sources may be expected to fall at different stages during the course of a fire and fire-suppression efforts causing the seat of fire
likely to be buried beneath debris e.g. roof tiles, charred wood, glass etc.
As such, the purpose of investigative excavation is to determine the cause of fire (probable events that lead to ignition of the fire).
 Excavation may be required
 Locate the seat(s) of fire;

 Confirm the seat(s) of fire;
 Reconstruct pre-fire room geometry
 Assist the study of fire spread
 Piece together the events prior to fire
 Items said to have been in the vicinity prior

to fire
 Incendiary devices / liquid or fire
accelerants
What is the purpose of conducting Excavation?
Excavation may be required for the following purposes:
•Locate the seat(s) of fire;

•Confirm the seat(s) of fire;
•Reconstruct pre-fire room geometry;
•Assist the study of fire spread;
•Piece together the events prior to fire;
•Items said to have been in the vicinity prior to fire;
•Incendiary devices/liquid or fire accelerants;
 Approach to Excavation
 Area safe for excavation

 Take photographs
 Enlist a person familiar with building &

contents
 Dig throw the debris (remove debris layer
by layer)
 Identify & account for any items recovered
 Assess again the seat of fire
Approach to Excavation
•Area safe for excavation

•Take photographs
•Enlist a person familiar with building & contents
•Dig throw the debris (remove debris layer by layer)
•Identify & account for any items recovered
•Assess again the seat of fire
FALSE CEILING
WINDOW
CURTAIN
WALL
FLOOR
This simple presentation is to show the need of excavation of fire debris when conducting fire scene examination.
FALSE CEILING
WINDOW
CURTAIN
WALL
FLOOR
The fire started from an electrical portable socket-outlet near to a window curtain.
FALSE CEILING
WINDOW
CURTAIN
WALL
FLOOR
The fire spread from the electrical socket outlet to the window curtain and spread to other area inside the room.
After the fire, the burnt electrical socket-outlet was buried beneath the debris such as, spall wall plaster, burnt window curtain, broken window glasses, etc.
Debris : Plaster
Debris : Curtain Pole
Debris : Glass
Debris : Curtain
Point of Fire Origin
This sketch show the seat of fire (the electrical socket-outlet) was buried beneath the debris and could not be found without excavation.
Cause Determination

Cause
Determination
Here is an example on how the Point of Fire Origin was determine.

Cause
Determination
Another example on determining the point of fire origin.

 Cause of Fire
Determining the cause of fire via:
 Process of investigative elimination & inductive/deductive
reasoning.
 Determining the most probable ignition source (source &
form of heat of ignition).
 Determining the most probable ignition fuel (material first
ignited).
 Events leading to the fire (ignition
sequence).
Categorisation & classification of

fire cause:
 Accidental
 Incendiary
 Illegal Controlled (Open) Burning
 Undetermined
Cause of Fire
Determining the cause of fire via:

•Process of investigative elimination & inductive/deductive reasoning.
•Determining the most probable ignition source (source & form of heat of ignition).
•Determining the most probable ignition fuel (material first ignited).
•Events leading to the fire (ignition sequence).
Categorisation & classification of fire cause:

•Accidental
•Incendiary
•Illegal Controlled (Open) Burning
•Undetermined
Fire Scene Documentation
 Field Notes
 Document all information related to the
fire investigation
 Time, date & place of incident
 Owner’s or occupier’s particulars, contact
nos.
 Persons interviewed and their statements
recorded
 Details of any other agency in attendance
 Investigating officer’s observations of fact/

event
Field Notes
Document all pertinent information related to the investigation in the form of field notes (facts, observations, questions and answers, incident information, scene
information, and suppression information).
Document Information such as:
• Time, date & place of incident

• Owner’s or occupier’s particulars, contact nos.
• Persons interviewed and their statements recorded
• Details of any other agency in attendance
• Investigating officer’s observations of fact/event
 Sketches
 Preparing sketches of an incident scene
 layout of room/scene : reconstruction of fire
scene, a clear overall illustration of the scene
 shows the location of various items of
evidence and their position in relation to each
other and their surroundings
Sketching
Another step in the documentation of evidence is preparing diagrams or sketches of measurements for the location of evidence.
A sketch is a graphic representation of a crime or incident scene and of the items within that scene that are of interest to the investigation. It is the investigator’s
responsibility to decide what must be sketched. Sketches are important for, unlike photographs, they depict only the conspicuous aspects of the scene without
showing nonessential detail; they also have the advantages of showing relative proportions, distances, and dimensions.
The primary purpose of an evidence sketch is orientation, which shows the positions of objects that were collected as evidence. This overall view of the scene usually
is not available in photographs, and shows only relevant and important items that were collected and their location in a room area.
An clear sketch provides a clear overall illustration of the scene and shows the exact location of various items of evidence and their position in relation to each other
and their surroundings. Thus, the scene will be preserved for future use in questioning witnesses or suspects; and refreshing the investigator’s memory.
RUBBISH
BIN RUBBISH
CHUTE
TOILET
RACK
WASHING
MACHINE GAS
COOKER
CABINET
DINING
TABLE
CABINET
SINK
KITCHEN
REFRIGERATOR
RICE
COOKER
FLOWER
POT
FLOWER
RACK
POT
MATTRESS CHEST OF
DRAWERS RATTAN
CHAIR
SOFA
WARDROBE WARDROBE STAND STACK
FAN OF MEDICINE
2 ON TABLE
BEDROOM
BRICK
#02-653
SETTEE
C D LIVING TABLE #02-655
DRESSING
ROOM
TABLE
THE
DECEASED BED ELECTRIC
B E CIRCUIT
VCR
BREAKER
IRONING ON TABLE
BOARD
1 3 TV
A SOFA
BRICK
4
N
BRICK
EMPTY CORRIDOR
INCENSE BOXES CLOTH BICYCLE
HANGER
NOT TO SCALE
Sketch and document all items within the fire site/affected premises that are of interest to the investigation.
 Photo Documentation
 take as many photographs as necessary to
document and record the scene adequately
 prior to excavation (when the scene is
undisturbed)
 when collecting evidence/samples
 during fire suppressing (if possible) : location,
spread, color of fire etc...
 used as evidence in court
Photographs
When documenting a fire scene, take as many photographs as necessary to document and record the scene adequately.
Photographs need to be taken as soon as practical to ensure the scene is undisturbed.
If you are present during fire suppression efforts, beginning photo documentation then will prove invaluable.
When collecting evidence samples be sure to take a minimum of three photographs for each sample.
Photographs should be organised into photograph logs that specify photograph number, roll number, subject of the photograph direction taken, case number, incident date, and photographer.
When taking photographs, do not include equipment or fire department personnel in the picture. Don’t add anything to the photograph that is not part of the fire scene. This can contaminate the picture and cause the photograph to be ruled
inadmissible in court. When photographing the fire scene take pictures in the same order in which you are processing the fire scene.
The photographer is responsible for the accountability of all photographs. Do not throw away bad pictures.
Negatives should be maintained as would any other evidence. Negatives are just as important as photo prints and are considered direct evidence of scene documentation.
Do not mix fire scenes on the same roll of film. Negatives should be cataloged and stored separately from the case report. This eliminates the possibility of damage.
Chain of custody protects the integrity of each roll of film from scene investigation to processing to court.
Evidence
Use notes, photos, and sketches to document the evidence collection process. Remember to make notes and sketches pertaining to the collection, and photograph the collection of each piece of evidence. Just as in photographing the fire scene, you
need to document evidence in a similar fashion. This documentation is done on an evidence log.
basket of
old rags
dustbin
shoe rack
toilet sink
gas cylinder wooden
side table cabinet
stove
two-door two-seater 15
fridge sofa old fridge
iron 22
board
table fan 13 8
table
17,20 18 fan 7
19,21 16 4
queen size 5
bed
fish tank
10 14
12 11 6
book-shelf television
set
mini
Hi-Fi
ENTRANCE
wardrobe #07-1053
CORRIDOR ACCESS
This example shows markings from which directions the photos were taken and the photographs numbers in correspond with Fire Investigation Report.
Computer Modeling

Computer modeling can be used to assist in determining the Point of Fire Origin.
4.4m X 1.8m
(2X Windows covered
with zinc sheets)
1.0m X 2.1m
(DOOR- ‘ENTRANCE A’) ‘WINDOW 1’
METAL BEAM FOR CRANE
‘WINDOW 2’
10.0mL X 6.6mB X 3.0mH 2.4m
(TOTAL MEASUREMENT PLATFORM 3
FOR 3 OFFICES) 1.0m X 2.1m
(DOORS) 2.2m 7.0m
PLATFORM 2 CORRUGATED
METAL
2.2m PARTITION
PLATFORM 1 9.0m
2.2m 2.0m
GROUND LEVELGYPSUM BOARD
PARTITION
16.6m 20.0m
5.0m
5.0m
9.5m
6.0m
50.0m
3.8m
5.0m
20.0m
5.0m
8.7m
15.2m
SKETCH BY: WO ASMAWI MAJID
To run the Computer Modeling, measurements on size of the affected premises, openings, contents and the type of materials need to be taken as shown in the
drawing.
INCIDENT NUMBER : 971115/0070
LOCATION OF FIRE : NO. 89 MAUDE ROAD
‘INVERTED V-SHAPED’
BURN PATTERN ON THE WALL
BURN THROUGH 12 2.6 METRES 13

AND IRREGULAR STAIRCASE RAILING
BURN PATTERNS
AT THIS AREA SEVERE CHARRING
14
SECOND-STOREY
FLOOR BEAM TIMBER FLOOR
A B C D E F
CRACKED
BEAM
UNDER LAYER
OF THE TIMBER FLOOR BURN THROUGH
AND STAIRCASE STAIRCASE FLIGHTS
CARTON BOXES 9 10 11
VOLATILE FLAMMABLE VAPOUR

DETECTED HERE
NOT TO SCALE
SKETCH : CONFIGURATION ON THE PROBABLE FIRE DEVELOPMENT
SKETCH BY: WO ASMAWI MAJID
This was drawn to support the probable area of fire origin and fire development.
LOCATION OF FIRE : NO. 4 JIAK CHUAN ROAD
ROOF
ROOF
ATTIC
KITCHEN STORE
THIRD STORE
SPIRAL STOREY
STAIRCASE
STAIRCASE
OPENING
A A
SECOND
KITCHEN STOREY
STAIRCASE FIRST
REAR
EXIT FRONT STOREY
WASH AREA ENTRANCE
SIDE ELEVATION (C-C) SIDE ELEVATION (D-D)
(CROSS SECTION)
A-A
KITCHEN UP
TOILET
D-D A
B-B
C-C DRAWN NOT TO SCALE

BY WO ASMAWI
SECOND-STOREY LAYOUT PLAN
SKETCH : LEGEND :
CONFIGURATION ON THE PROBABLE FIRE DEVELOPMENT A AREA OF

FIRE ORIGIN FIRE AREA
AND THE DIRECTION OF FIRE/SMOKE PATH SMOKE
Another drawing to show the probable area of fire origin and fire development.
Vector Diagrams

CONFIGURATION ON THE PROBABLE FIRE DEVELOPMENT
FIRE AT M/S KOMOCO AUTO PRIVATE LIMITED WORKSHOP ON 22 SEPTEMBER 1996
NOT TO SCALE
LEGEND: DRAWN BY:

AREA WITH FALSE CEILING DIRECT INFRINGEMENT ACCUMULATION WO ASMAWI BIN MAJID
OF HOT GASES FIRE INVESTIGATOR
EFFECT FROM DROPPINGS CONVECTION OF HOT GASES FIRE INVESTIGATION BRANCH
OF FALSE CEILING WATER JETS HQ SINGAPORE CIVIL DEFENCE FORCE
This diagram shows fire infringement and convection of hot gases in a workshop fire.
Conclusion
Due to destructive powers of fire, the investigator must continually be aware of his surroundings and ensure that proper scene safety measures are instituted.
The lesson has explained how firefighting crew can assist in the investigation process by not destroying or damaging the structure and contents any more than needed
during extinguishment. During overhaul, the firefighting crews need to proceed as carefully as possible to safeguard possible evidence. In order to ensure scene
safety, properly determine the origin and cause, prevent contamination, and importance of securing the fire scene cannot be over-emphasised.
Determining the point of origin is a critical first step in fire investigation. There are many factors to consider in this process of conducting a systematic ‘Backwards
Theory’ investigation, while attempting the reconstruct the fire scene from the area of least damage to the area of most damage. Only after the exact point of
origin has been established can a fire cause be determined.
Fire scene investigation can be more complex then fire suppression. The process of correctly determining the origin and cause of the fire may take hours, days, or
even weeks to complete. Investigators must be mentally alert at all times since they will even weeks to complete. Investigator must be mentally alert at all times
since they will be exposed to variety of hazards and will be subjected to continuous physical exertion.
SCDF LEARNING DAY
Fire Safety Enforcement

on Illegal Workers’ Dorms
MAJ R SAKHUBAI
ASST DIR CERTIFICATION & ENFORCEMENT
FIRE SAFETY & SHELTER DEPARTMENT
1
Scope of Presentation
 Background
 Definition of Workers’ Dorms
 Types of Workers’ Dorms
 Key Fire Safety Requirements
 Statistics on Enforcement Checks
 Common Violations
 Do’s and Don’ts
 Conclusion
2
Background
 Increasing numbers of foreign
workers due to growth in construction,
marine, medical and other industry
 Insufficient purpose-built workers’

dorms
 There is spill over demand
Compel many employers to look for

alternate accommodation at the
cheapest cost
illegally house workers in
premises that are not approved as
workers’ dorm
3
Background
 Some workers packed
into private residential
premises
 Many a time, owners

are unaware that the use
of the premises to
function as workers’
dorms constitutes a fire
safety infringement
 SCDF received
Feedback from
general public
Cases referred by
related agencies
4
Definition of Workers’
Dorms
Include buildings or spaces in buildings
where group sleeping accommodation is
provided for workers under joint
occupancy and single management, with
or without meals, but without individual
cooking facilities
5
Types of Workers’ Dorms
Temporary Structures
 Within Construction Sites
Permanent Facilities
 Purpose-built
 Converted existing spaces
in a building
 Permission from URA
6
All Workers’ Dorms
Shall be “without individual cooking facilities.”
- i.e. the absence of cooking equipment within the
sleeping spaces or rooms.
7
Temporary Structures
 Within construction sites
 No building plan submission
 Building owner shall engage
QP to prepare plan to ensure
 Compliance with the Technical
Guidelines for Fire Safety in
Temporary Building Structures
(revised in 2002)
 The plan shall be kept at site
and ready for inspection when
requested by SCDF officer
8
Permanent Facilities
• Submit buildings plans for fire
safety works, including renovation
works or change of use.
• In accordance to Fire Code
requirements for Purpose Group III
– Institutional
• Key fire safety requirements
such as those on means of escape
are found in Clause 2.9 of the Fire
Code
9
Fire Safety Concerns
• Life safety of foreign workers
• Potential for fire spread to
neighbours
Endangering the safety of
others
Causing damages to nearby
properties
10
Fire Safety Requirements For
Worker’s Dorm Within
Construction Site
Shall comply with ‘Technical Guidelines for
Fire Safety in Temporary Building in
Construction Sites’
11
Internal Hydrant
Public road
To provide hydrant if access road

exceeds 100m
Set back from boundary (d)
Distance between two adjacent buildings (d)
d : Not less than 4m

Less than 4m
Quarter
d
Quarter
d
d 12
Timber floor construction
External corridor
l
Internal corridor
L
1-hr fire-rated
wall
1-hr fire-rated wall

L > 20M
13
l < 20m ½-hr fire door
Approach through external
corridor
Min 1.0m
External corridor (min width 1.0m)

Not more than 3 storeys
Travel distance
Timber floor – Not more than 15m (one-way) or 30m (two-way)
Steel floor – Not more than 20m (one-way) or 45m (two-way)
Travel distance is measured from
remote point of the floor to the foot of One staircase is acceptable if one-way
14 travel
the staircase on ground level distance complied with
Approach through internal
corridor
Min 1.5m
Min 1.5m
Not more than 2 storeys

Travel distance
Timber floor – Not more than 10m (one-way) or 20m (two-way)
Steel floor – Not more than 15m (one-way) or 30m (two-way)
One staircase is acceptable if one-way
Min 1.0m
travel distance complied with 15
Unenclosed staircase and external
corridor
1. Staircase shall not be enclosed
2. Railing of minimum height 900mm shall be
provided to open-sided staircase and
external corridor
16
Compartmentation of hazardous
areas
Kitchen*
Min 5m
Accommodation block
*Kitchen can also be located

with accommodation units
provided it is compartmentalised Min 5m
by 1-hr fire-rated wall and ½-hr
fire-rated door
Store
17
Fire fighting equipment
Ø 13A fire extinguisher
Ø
Θ 70B fire extinguisher
Ω Manual alarm call point with bell

(can be of other form of alarm
sounding device)
Min 1.5m
Θ
Kitchen
Ω
Θ
Ø
18
Workers’ Dorm NOT within
Construction Sites
Shall comply with Fire Code 2002
19
Size, occupancy load, No. of exits and travel
distance
CL. 2.9.2
a. Room size <= 120m²

b. OL – 3m²/person
A – Dead-end corridor
c. 2 exit access door, if OL > 50 p
d. 2 exit stairs
e. T.D. 1-way < 15m & 2-way < 45m 20
Compartmentation &
ventilation
CL. 2.9.3
Compartmentation of bedroom
i. Wall – 1-hr fire-rated
ii. Door – ½-hr fire-rated
Ventilation to internal corridor

i. Fixed openings having area > 15%
of the floor area of internal corridor
ii. Area of fixed openings > 3.5m² and
shall be positioned on opposite
direction
iii. Distance between openings < 24m
21
Fixed Openings
Internal corridor shall be naturally ventilated

22
Sectional elevation showing naturally
ventilated internal corridor
23
CL. 2.9.4 – Access Through External
Corridor
height of parapet wall > 0.9m
24
CL. 2.9.5 – Smoke Free Approach To
Staircase
Note – Pressurization of staircase in lieu of the provision

of smoke-stop lobby is not permitted
25
Construction
1 Flooring – Non-combustible and have
the requisite fire resistance rating
2 Staircase
Internal staircase shall be enclosed by
fire-rated walls (protected shaft) and
be directly discharged into safe
external space
External staircase can be unenclosed
if it is approached through external
corridor
26
Fire Fighting System/
Equipment
Fire hydrant
Fire extinguisher
Hosereel – Shall be located near the escape exit
Manual Fire alarm – Not more than 4 storeys high
Automatic fire alarm system – More than 4 storeys high
Dry rising main – If habitable height of building exceeds 10m
Fire engine accessway and/or access road
27
Statistics On Enforcement
Checks
Year 2003 2004 2005 2006

Jan - May
No. of enforcement 9 6 50 38
checks
No. of violation cases 9 5 28 6
28
Common Violations
Irrawaddy Road - partitions erected at living room which
constitute a change of use
- premise occupied by a total of 20 nurses
g
l i vin
at s
c t ed nurse
s ere d 20
n e
r t itio hous g)
Pa m – wdin
roo ercro
(ov 29
Common Violations
Changi Coast Road - Dormitory (structures) erected at
vacant land without approval of plan
- about 150 foreign workers staying
in the dormitory
val
ro
app
out
ith
dw
an
e nl
t op
te da
rec
rese
ctu
Stru 30
Common Violations
Tech Park Crescent - convert office space into a workers’
dormitory without approval of plan
- premise housed about 500 foreign
workers
out
r m with
sd o ke s
r
w o rker 500 wor
rt to bout
c e c onve oused a
Offi oval – h
appr
31
Tell-Tale Signs
Where? Possible locations
• Converted residential premises
• Parts of factory spaces often
partitioned and concealed
• Underdeveloped areas which are
normally out of view
• In containers or makeshift
structures within factory or
warehouse
32
Tell-Tale Signs
Situation?
• High content of combustible used or present
• Improper storage of LPG cylinders
• Congested and poorly ventilated
ed
s y ventilat
cylinder and poorl
e of LPG ested
Presenc Cong
33
Tell-Tale Signs
From the outside – in approach:-
• Widespread and haphazard
laundry
• Large collection of bicycles
34
Tell-Tale Signs
From the outside – in approach:-
• Large pool of cooking utensils
• Excessive partitioning works to
create rooms; with concealed
exits
• Decker beds/Straw mats packed
in store room to avoid detection
by authorities
• Unpleasant odour due to smelly
open rubbish containers, filthy
toilets, etc
35
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
• Check for Building Plans
• Check for Fire Safety Certificate
• Whether LPG Storage Licence is issued
• Importance of knowing the Fire Safety
Requirements for Temporary and Permanent
workers’ dormitories
36
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
• Take down the particulars of the owner/
contractor
• Take down the numbers of workers residing
• Take photographs
• Check the area of the dormitory (esp those
approved dorm cases). The purpose is to
check whether there is overcrowding.
• Check for any unauthorised or “missing”
structures (for approved dormitory cases) eg.
new partitions, demolished walls, etc.
37
Do’s and Don’ts
Don’ts
• Do not conduct an inspection unless 24
hours notice is served on intended visit
• Do not conduct inspection either alone
or in large groups
• Do not issue the wrong notice. Change
of use without approval and erection of
unauthorised structures is FSO,
overcrowding is FHAN
• Do not give away information on
inspected cases unless authorised or
permitted to do so 38
Conclusion
 Government is making efforts to have more purpose-built
workers’ dormitories to ensure that there is enough
accommodation for workers
 SCDF plays a crucial role in ensuring that the workers’ dorms
meet the requisite fire safety requirements
 Ourofficers must therefore possess the necessary knowledge
 Advice owners correctly
 Conduct effective enforcement checks
39
Thank You
40
Rising main / Hose reel/
Fire extinguisher
Cpt Lau Heng Hui

Senior Instructing Officer
FSITW, CDA
Introduce yourself and the lesson proper

SCOPE
Introduction
Objectives
Conclusion
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities Cpt•yamGlobally
INTRODUCTION
 Importance of
 Rising main
 Hose reel
 Fire extinguisher
Highlight the importance of rising main

Objectives
 Understand the different parts of wet and
dry rising main system
 Provisions of dry and wet rising mains
 The technical requirement of the hose
reel
 Specifications of fire extinguisher
State the objectives of the lesson proper

RISING MAINS
Begin section on rising mains

RISING MAINS
DryRising Main
Wet Rising Main
2 different kinds of rising mains

DRY RISING MAINS
 Bldg 10 m to 60 m
 All basement levels
 Not connected to water supply and
needs to be charged with water from
the pump first to be used
dry rising main shall be installed in buildings under

purpose groups II, III, IV, V, VI, VII and VIII where
the habitable height is more than 10 m, but does not
exceed 60 m.
WET RISING MAINS
 Bldg > 60 m
 Has intermediate booster pumps, tanks and

jockey pumps & connected to town mains
with a shut-off valve installed
 For prolonged use, riser has to be charged

with water from pump
For buildings more than 60m habitable height.
Comply fully with technical specifications in CP29

NUMBER OF RISING MAINS
 All parts of bldg is within 38 m from a

landing valve
Where all the exit staircases in a building under

purpose groups III to VIII are installed with rising
mains and standby fire hoses, and yet part of a floor
space is beyond the 38 m coverage of any landing
valve, an additional standby fire hose shall be
provided at the landing valve nearest to this floor
space.
LOCATION OF RISING
MAINS
 Within smoke stop lobby or external

corridor immediately outside the door of the
exit staircase.
 Inside the exit staircase or in the common

area & within a protected shaft immediately
outside the exit staircase if there is no
smoke-stop lobby
Position of rising mains and the associated landing valves

shall be kept free of obstruction both physically and visually
and located:
(i) within smoke-stop lobby or external corridor
immediately outside the door of the exit staircase;
(ii) in the case where there are no smoke stop lobby or
external corridor, it shall be located inside exit
staircase, or in the common area and within a
protected shaft, immediately outside the door of the
exit staircase.
LOCATION OF RISING
MAINS
 Rising main pipe works in common areas

other than smoke stop lobby & fire pump
room shall be enclosed in fire rated
construction
 Rising main pipe works shall not pass

through occupancy areas such as offices &
shops
Where passing through other than protected area e.g. protected lobby
shaft, pipes need to be encased or protected by fire rated material
having 2-hours fire resistance rating.
SIZE OF RISING MAINS
 100 mm where the rising main <45 m in

height & only one landing valve is provided
at each floor
 150 mm where the rising main >45 m in

height or is permitted to have 2 landing
valves on any floor
The height of rising main is the habitable height measured from the fire engine
access level to the finished floor level of the topmost floor served by the rising
main, irrespective whether or not the main is extended above roof level. Two landing valves being installed or the height of rising main exceeding 45m, the
minimum nominal bore of the rising main shall not be less than 150mm.
LANDING VALVE
 Every floor above ground

 All basements
 On the roof for wet rising main for
testing purpose
Landing valve is not required to be provided at the 1st

storey level to buildings under purpose group II if the
breeching inlets are installed in accordance with
clause 6.2.3(c) of Fire Code
LANDING VALVE
Recesses & enclosures
250 mm min
75 mm min
230 mm min
Refer to CP29
STANDBY HOSE
 Required for every rising main

 63.5 mm dia
 30 m provided for every landing valve
 Stowed in Dutch Roll position
 Only clean,dry & compact rolled hoses shall be
placed in cabinet housed in glass fronted cabinet
 2 lengths of spare hoses shall be kept in stock &
ready for replacement
 Hose installed next to landing valve
 Cabinet firmly mounted on wall & rigid
The standby fire hose shall be of 63.5mm nominal

internal diameter in order to ensure that the hose
coupling will fit existing coupling tail pieces. The hose
shall be rugged and capable of carrying water under
substantive pressure in accordance with BS 6391. The fire
hose shall be Type 3 as stipulated in the BS 6391.
(ii) The fire hose couplings shall be manufactured to BS
specification or equivalent and of light alloy or gunmetal.
The coupling shall be of type 63.5mm and be of the
instantaneous type with standard (double-pull) release
mechanism. The couplings shall be tied in by binding
with galvanized mild steel wire and applied over a hose
guard of synthetic fibre. It shall be able to withstand a
minimum working pressure of 15 bars.
(iii) Each hose shall have a standard length of 30m and shall
be kept stowed in a Dutch Rolled position and housed in
a glass fronted cabinet. The Dutch Roll shall be rolled in
the manner shown in Diagram 6.2.5(a).
WATER SUPPLY FOR WET
RISING MAIN
Water Tank Effective Capacity

 Not less than 30 mins supply
 Where PUB supply incoming water

supply rate is less than the
appropriate flow - not less than 45
mins effective fire fighting
Residential is 27 litres/ s
Non residential is 38 litres/s

WATER SUPPLY FOR WET
RISING MAIN
Flow Requirements
 27 l/s for residential
 38 l/s for non-residential or any mixed
occupancy bldg
 running pressure - 3.5 - 5.5 bar
Adapted from clauses 3.1.3.2 and 3.1.3.3 of CP29

PUMPING ARRANGEMENT
 2 pumps each shall be capable of providing

the necessary flow & pressure
 at least one diesel engine driven
 or both electric pumps & both connected

to emergency power supply
Clause 3.1.6 of CP29

PUMPING ARRANGEMENT
 3 pumps, any 2 shall be capable of

providing in the aggregate, the necessary
flow & pressure
 at least 2 diesel engine driven
 3 electric pumps & all connected to
emergency power supply
Clause 3.1.6 of CP29

BREECHING INLET
 On external wall & <18 m from a fire engine

access road
 in a conspicuous position readily visible &
accessible to the firemen
 about 760 mm above GL
The breeching inlets shall be located on the

external wall above ground level nearest to the
vertical run of the riser stack. The maximum
horizontal run of the water pipe between the
breeching inlets and the same riser stack shall not
exceed 12 m.
OTHER FITTINGS
 Automatic air release valve at top

of rising main
 Electric earthing
Clause 3.3 and 3.4 of CP29. To allow air release during charging of water into the rising mains.
BREECHING INLET
 0.76 m to 1m above finished floor level

 Location within 18 m from engine access
 2 way inlet (100 mm dia pipe)
 4 way inlet (150mm dia pipe)
 Inlet housed in glass fronted box
 Rigidly supported
 Labelled “DRY RISER INLET”
 Clear of obstruction
 Inlet painted yellow colour for dry rising mains and red colour for
wet rising mains
Clause 2.3 of CP29. Describe some technical specifications for BI

LANDING VALVE
 0.76m to 1m above finished floor level

 Condition of hand wheel
 Black cap
 Strapped & padlocked in closed position
 Labelled/Numbered
Clause 2.4 of CP29. Describe some technical specifications for landing valve and their purpose
TESTING OF HYDROSTATIC
 Pressure constant at 13.8 bar for 2

hrs
 Air release functioning
Clause 8.1 of CP29

FIRE FIGHTING USING
 Make sure you are charging the correct inlet

 If water still does not come out, or at poor pressure,
check that all other valves are closed
 Beware of problematic risers
 Vandalism
 Poor Maintenance
 Defective pipes
Things to look out for when using rising mains, especially those buildings with multiple rising mains.
HOSEREEL
Begin section on hosereel

ADVANTAGES OF
HOSEREEL
 One man operated

 Light
 Lack of back pressure
 Easy to operate
Hosereel provide continuous supply of water as opposed to fire extinguisher that is one time use only.
HOSEREEL
 Location as per plan

 Non kinking reinforced rubber/reinforced PVC
 Length of hose (30 m)
 Nozzle - 4 mm or 6 mm
 Flowrate - 22.8 l/min
 Stopcock
Location to be near to exits.

HOSEREEL
 Labelling provided for cabinet

 Without locking device
 Hosereel operating notice
 No leak
 10 m throw
6m to 10m throw is recommended. Hosereel coverage is 36m = 30m hose length and 6m minimum water throw.
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER.
Fire Extinguishers is regulated by:
1. Fire Code 2007

2. SS CP: 55 - Use and Maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers.
3. SS 232 - Specification for portable
fire extinguishers.
Chapter 6 of Fire Code and CP55 and SS232 covers the requirements for fire extinguishers.
WHEN ARE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
REQUIRED TO BE FITTED?
1.“All purpose groups, except for purpose group

(residential floors) shall be provided with
portable fire extinguishers.
2. Shall be constructed in conformity with SS232.
3. Shall be charged, tested and maintained in
fully operational conditions and properly
tagged in conformity with SS CP: 55”
All purpose groups, except purpose groups I and II

(Residential floors) shall be provided with portable fire
extinguishers.
METHOD OF EXTINGUISHMENT.
1. Cooling.
2. Smothering.
3. Starvation.
Cooling – lowering the temperature
Smothering – cutting off oxygen supply
Starvation – Deprive it of burning fuel

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER.
1. Putting out small fires.
2. Timely & correct use
3. Readily accessible & immediately available
Located
 normal paths of travel
 near doorway
 along escape routes
Portable fire extinguishers provided in building are meant to be used by

occupants as a first line defence, in handling fires of limited size. Fire extinguishers
shall be conspicuously located in positions where they will be readily accessible
and immediately available in the event of fire. They shall be located along the
normal paths of egress from a space to an exit. Fire extinguishers provided to deal
with special risks shall be sited near the risk concerned, but not too near as to be
inaccessible in case of fire.
EXTINGUISHING AGENTS.
Common Agents:
• Water
• Carbon Dioxide
• Powder
The selection of the most appropriate fire extinguisher depends on the fire hazards
anticipated pertaining to occupancies of a building, the effectiveness of the fire
extinguisher used on that class of hazard, and the weight of the extinguisher can
be handled by occupants. Fire extinguishers shall be located so that no person
needs to travel more than 15m to reach an extinguisher.
WATER TYPE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
COOLING removing the

heat source.
Water • Globally
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities Cpt yam
Water cools down the temperature

EXTINGUISHING AGENTS.
Advantages of water.
1. At stp, water is heavy and relatively stable liquid
2. Has high specific heat capacity
3. Good latent heat of vaporization
4. When converted into steam, its volume increases by about
1600 times
5. Relatively cheap
6. Easily available
Disadvantages of water.
1. It contains impurities.
2. Cannot be used on fires involving burning metals.
3. Cannot be used on radioactive substances.
4. May cause damages to goods & properties.
Discuss advantages and disadvantages of water extinguishers

CARBON DIOXIDE FIRE
EXTINGUISHER
SMOTHERING is cutting off
the supply of oxygen.
CO2 cuts off supply of oxygen

CARBON DIOXIDE FIRE
EXTINGUISHER.
Advantages of carbon dioxide.
1. Non combustible.
2. Non conductive of electricity.
3. Does not react with most substances.
4. Non toxic.
5. Leaves no residue.
6. Can penetrate and spread to all parts of the fire area.
Disadvantages of carbon dioxide.
1. Arrangement are made to ensure safe
2. Evacuation before gas discharge.
3. Use on general fires is limited.
4. A danger to human.
5. Not visible.
Discuss advantages and disadvantages of CO2 extinguishers

DRY POWDER FIRE
EXTINGUISHER.
STARVATION removing the fuel.
Removing the source of fuel that is sustaining the fire

DRY POWDER FIRE
EXTINGUISHER.
Advantages of dry powder.
• Effective for fires involving plastic, burning metal.
• Give quick knockdown.
• Forms a good radiant heat barrier.
Disadvantages of dry powder.

• Very messy, not suitable for electronic equipments.
• Chemical can be detrimental to health.
Discuss advantages and disadvantages of dry chemical extinguishers

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE.
Fire is classified into four main categories:

Class A - fires involving ordinary combustible materials.
Class B - fires involving flammable/combustible

liquids and gases
Class C - fires involving energized electrical equipment
Class D - fires involving combustible metals
Discuss the 4 different classes of fire

CLASSIFICATION OF HAZARDS.
Low Hazard
Where the amount of combustibles or flammable liquid present
is such that fires of small size may be expected. Example
Offices, classrooms, assembly hall, domestic kitchen
Medium Hazard
Where the amount of combustibles present is such that fires of
moderate size may be expected. Example
Storage and display areas, motor showroom, shopping areas
High Hazard
Where the amount of combustibles present is such that fires of
severe magnitude may be expected. Example
Furniture showrooms, aircraft hangars, vehicle repair workshops
Explain the different classification of hazards

RATINGS OF EXTINGUISHER.
1. Rated according to the extinguishing performance test as

spelt out in SS 232.
2. Every extinguisher is designated by a number followed by an

alphabet, e.g, 13A, 27B etc.
3. The Alphabet represents the class of fire that the extinguisher is

suited for.
4. The number is the size of area of fire that the extinguisher is capable
of extinguishing
Explain different ratings of fire extinguisher

GENERAL REQUIREMENT.
Explain briefly the different markings on the extinguisher

GENERAL REQUIREMENT.
Explain briefly the different markings on the extinguisher

STEPS OF OPERATION
Pull off safety pin
Aim nozzle at base of fire
Squeeze grip lever firmly
Sweep from side to side
Steps of operation of the using fire extinguisher

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
1. Do not use Water Extinguisher for Class B & C fire.
2. Keep a safe distance when fighting fire.
3. Do not stand facing wind direction.
4. Stay out of thick smoke area. Do not get yourself trap.
5. Switch off electricity supply if possible.
Some safety precautions to highlight

END
Any Questions
Thank You.
Invite questions if any

AUTOMATIC
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
Cpt Lau Heng Hui
Snr Instructing officer
FSITC
Introduce myself and also the lesson to be conducted

SCOPE
• Introduction
• Objectives
• Types of Detectors
• The characteristics of Alarm systems
Introduce the scope of the lesson

Introduction
• Fire Code Clause 6.3
• CP 10 : 2005 – Installation & Servicing
of Electrical Fire Alarm Systems
• Automatic fire Alarm - Auto Alarm
This lesson is based mainly on Fire code Clause 6.3 and reference is make to CP 10 2005. The 2005 means the year where new revision was done.
OBJECTIVES
• Explain the operation requirements of
automatic fire alarm system
• List the characteristic of the Automatic
fire Alarm
• List Location of main & Sub alarm
panel
• Explain the connection between Alarm
panel and control room
Explain the objectives of the main alarm system

Types of Detector
Begin the lesson on different types of detector.

SMOKE DETECTOR
• Spot type detectors - ionisation &
photoelectric type
• Beam type - comprising of light
transmitter and receiver
• Air aspirating system - breathes in
the air and analyses it
Ability to sense fire while it is in the incipient
stage.
Introduce the different types of smoke detector systems available

IONISATION SMOKE
DETECTOR
The detectors contain a small radioactive source
which ionises the air within the sampling chamber.
When smoke/ aerosols the sampling chamber there
would drop in current flowing through and this
would trigger an alarm.
The ionisation smoke detector detects particles of
all sizes and thus is suitable for the early detection
of all smoke-producing fires.
Explain the means of operation of ionisation smoke detector.

SMOKE DETECTOR
Anode is the positive plate and cathode is the negative plate
Ionised air inside the chamber will move to either side of the plate depending on its polarity.
Diagrammatic illustration of optical beam smoke detectors

Smoke will obstruct the beam of light and trigger the alarm.
Smoke will obstruct the beam of light and trigger the alarm.
Smoke will obstruct the beam of light and trigger the alarm. The secondary detector is placed at right angles instead.
Secondary light rays are deflected to the secondary detector.

HEAT DETECTOR
Air inside chamber expands, extending the diaphragm and closing the circuit.
HEAT
DETECTOR
Metal strip bends when it is expanded due to heat. Circuit is closed.

FLAME DETECTOR
• imitate human sense of sight
utilising line of sight devices that
operate an infrared, ultraviolet or
combination
• sensing equipment recognises fire
signature and instantaneously sends
sends signal to alarm panel
• flame detectors must be looking
down directly at the fire source
Need direct imput from fire source i.e. the rays must be sensing the flame directly.
VISIBLE
Light
IN
FR
A- 4000-7700
I O ET
RE Angstrom
AT OL
N
D
RA
DI VI
RA RA
D
IA
T
TI
UL
O
N
Fire give off infra red and ultraviolet radiation.

AMP
PHOTORESISTIVE
CELL
Infra red rays from flame LENS
FILTER
FLAME DETECTOR
Infra red rays picked up by the filter and concentrated by the lens on the photoresistive cell
Fire Alarm system
Introduce the next section which is the fire alarm system

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
• primary purpose :
– is to enhance the safety of the occupants
of building by giving an early warning so
that they may escape to safety.
– alerting to the SCDF via DECAMS to
ensure that fire fighters arrive at the
premises before fires go out of control
Talk about the stand alone or single station smoke detector. It is necessary for early warning and can saves lives.
What happen when OUTPUTS
alarm goes off? ALERT
OCCUPANTS
Smoke
curtain
INPUTS VOICE
COMMUNICATION Notify
Staircase/SS Lobby SCDF
pressuriation
SMOKE FIRE FIGHTERS Release of
DETECTION TELEPHONES compartme-
ntation
HEAT CONTROL SMOKE
DETECTION HATCHES
door
MANUAL CONTROL STAIR

STATIONS DOOR RELEASE
WATERFLOW SIGNAL
SWITCHES ELEVATORS
CONTROL AIR
HANDLING
FIRE
SUPPRESION
FIRE ALARM PANEL

Chain of outputs due to inputs leading to alarm activation.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
detect alert extinguish
detector Control unit

intervention
Basic fire detection system

The quicker an incipient the fire is detected:
•The safer the people and property
•The less extinguishing is required
•The lower the damage
How it works?
• discover the existence of fire with absolute
minimum delay
• send an alarm to SCDF via decam
immediately
• immediately alert occupant
• organise and effect the movement and
evacuation of building occupants
• fire fighter able to identify fire zone
How it works?
Upon discovering of fire the detector will discover with minimum delay It will send alarm to SCDF Via Decam system. Decam system is company where it monitor
premises with auto alarm (some warehouses with manual also required to link) this is to reduce the number of false alarm form detector.
The alarm raise by the auto detector are able to alert occupant in the earliest possibility, so that the occupant can either fight the fire early or evacuate the premises.
With early warning given to SCDF, we are able to arrive in the first instant and control the fire so that as to save lives and minimise property damage.
Detector are that is being activated will send signal to the alarm panel, hence, it will allow the fire safety committee and fire fighter to know the exact location of the
fire.
Table 6.3A of Fire Code. Where used for sleeping accommodation, automatic alarm system may be required by the Relevant Authority.
Operations
(1) Fire fighters responding to a fire call would first, on
arrival at the scene, need to check the fire indicator
board to confirm the location of the alarm, which has
been actuated or operated before proceeding to the fire
site.
(2)The FIB monitors the actuation of detectors, call-

points and sprinkler flow switch.
The FAP/FIB will indicate clearly which zone is activated. This is useful knowledge for firefighters.
Operations
(3) A permanent fire zone chart or minic panel shall be
displayed at the Fire Indication Board (FIB) location to
provide information on originality of the alarm. The fire zone
chart or minic panel shall be installed in accordance with the
floor or building orientation. All the alarm zones and FIB
zones if provided should be clearly depicted on the fire zone
chart/minic panel. Additional information such as, fire engine
accessway/hard standing spaces, location of breeching
inlets, fire hydrant, sprinkler control valve, hosereel and fire
extinguisher should be provided on the fire zone chart/minic
panel where applicable. Fire fighters can identify the location
of hardstanding spaces, breeching inlets etc, when they
arrived at the fire site.
An electrical fire alarm system of the automatic or manual

type shall be provided with a fire indicator board to indicate
the location of the alarm which has been actuated or
operated. Such indication of location shall be accurate to the
maximum allowed alarm group area limitations specified in
SS CP 10.
Operations
(4) Where addressable fire alarm system is used, fire
alarm indicators shall be provided additional to the
programmable message on display.
Addressable means that every detector has its specific address, which makes identification easy.
Characteristics
Alarm Zone Limitation
•2000 m2
Manual Call Point
•Bright Red
•Break-glass type
•Delay-3 secs
•No sharing of zones with detectors
Battery
•24 hours capacity
•Maintenance -free battery [no need separate
compartment]
•status monitor not required
In a manual alarm system, except as otherwise exempted in

Cl. 6.3.1, the manual call points shall be provided on every
storey of the building or part of the building and shall be so
located that no person need travel more than 30m from any
position within the building to activate the alarm.
Characteristics (cont’d)
Alarm Sounder Silencing Switch
• Silencing of alarm permitted after 3min of general
alarm sounding
• Take note that SS546 allow silencing of alarm after 15s.
Audible & Lighting Alarm
• 65 db (A) minimum or
• 5 db (A) above background noise
•The intensity of the light shall be sufficient to draw the
attention of people in the vicinity
(Should last at least for 30seconds)
Clause 2.5.3 of CP10:2005.
Clause 2.2 (c) of SS546: 2009

when the loudspeakers are in use for fire/emergency announcements, a switching facility shall be provided to silence all the alarm sounding devices in the building,
but only after the fire alarm have operated for not less than 15 seconds. This switching facility shall only silence the alarm sounding devices and not affect the other
operation of the fire alarm system.
Characteristics (cont’d)
FIRE CALL
connect to fire station via DECAMS, fire
call will transmitted through Telephone
(line is solely for fire alarm)
DECAMS have to revert back to SCDF whether it is a real case of fire emergency or false alarm, within 2-3 mins.
Q&A
Invite questions
Thank you
Lesson end.
DETERMINING
POINT OF FIRE ORIGIN
Presented by
CPT AZMI BIN ADAM

OC, FSITW
CIVIL DEFENCE ACADEMY
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Explain and apply procedures

normally used to determine
the Point of Fire Origin.
SCOPE
Introduction
Fire Patterns
Pattern Indicators
Pattern Geometries
Backwards Theory
Fire Scene Reconstruction
Conclusion
INTRODUCTION
- Where the fire Begins
- Where the FUEL + HEAT + OXYGEN
- Longest and Most Burned (Usually)
Need to Determine Point of Fire Origin?

- Nature of fire cause
- Evidence
- Confirm/Contradict Finding
Exact Point or General Area

- Point of Fire Origin (PFO)
- Area of Fire Origin (AFO)
INTRODUCTION
ORIGIN and CAUSE
NO Two Fires are identical
Every Fire is governed by the same Scientific principles

involved in the Chemistry and Physics of fire Behavior and
its Building Construction
Important aspect of Any Fire Investigation
- Proper Recognition of Pattern Indicators

- Proper Identification of Pattern Geometries
- Proper Analysis of Fire Patterns
FIRE PATTERNS
The Actual Physical Effects (Indicators) that can be seen or

measured after a fire
Examples - Charring, Oxidation, Distortion,

Melting, Colour Changes and
Structural Collapse
Regulated by the Chemistry and Physics of Fire Behavior and

the Building Construction
Two General types of Fire Pattern
- Movement Pattern
- Intensity Pattern
FIRE PATTERNS
Movement Patterns
Produce by the GROWTH and EXTENSION of the fire and
products of combustion away the original heat source
Growth and Extension produce characteristics indicators

such as Clean Burns
Indicate Direction of Fire Spread
Proper scene investigations can trace these patterns back to

the original heat source (PFO)
Examples - Burnthroughs
- Clean Burns
FIRE PATTERN
Movement Pattern
Clean Burn
FIRE PATTERNS
Intensity patterns
Produced by the effects of the VARIYING HEAT INTENSITIES of
the fire and products of combustion on the structure and its
contents
Varying heat intensities produce characteristic indicators

such as Lines or Area of Demarcation
Indicates differences in Heat/Temperature Gradient at various

levels and locations
May be used to determine the characteristics and quantities of Fuel Load
Examples - Charring
- Line of Demarcation
- Surface Effect
FIRE PATTERN
Intensity Pattern
Line of Demarcation Charring

FIRE PATTERNS
Where Can They be Found
Any Exposure Surfaces
- Affected Structure
- Its Contents
- Adjacent Structure
On Structures
- Walls (Exterior / Interior)
- Ceilings
- Floor
- Door frame / Seams (Present or Absent of Char)
On the Contents
- Sides
- Tops/Bottoms
FIRE PATTERNS
What Can They Tell
Location of Object
- Item present or absent from its position
Position of Object/Fuel
- Door opened or closed during fire
Extent of damage
Fire Development
- Fire Spread Direction

- Point/Area of Fire Origin
PATTERN INDICATORS
Line of Demarcation
Surface Effect
Burnthrough
Charring
Spalling
Oxidation
Melting of Material
Plastics
PATTERN INDICATORS
Thermal Expansion & Deformation of Material
Clean Burn
Calcination
Window Glass
Collapsed Spring
Heat Shadowing
Protected Area
Low Level Burning
Material Distortion
PATTERN INDICATORS
Line or Area of Demarcation
The border defining the different levels of heat and smoke effects
Production dependent on
- The affected Material

- The Rate of Heat Release (RHR)
- Fire Suppression Activities
- Temperature of Heat Source
- Ventilation Factors
- Duration of Exposure
May be produced by combination of other indicators such

as Loss of Material and Mass in partially burned furnitures
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Line of Demarcation
PATTERN INDICATORS
Line or Area of Demarcation
PATTERN INDICATORS
Surface Effect
Depends on the NATURE and MATERIAL of the surface exposed

Example - Rough surface of the same material
when exposed to the same level of
heat will sustain more damages when
compared with a smooth surface
Affects the shape of the Area/Line of Demarcation
Examples - Paint, tiles, brick, wallpaper, plaster

can increase or decrease the amount
of damages sustained to a surface
Effects of Oxidation
- Change in Colour or Texture

PATTERN
INDICATORS
Surface Effect
on Wall Papers
PATTERN INDICATORS
Burnthrough
Penetration of Horizontal Surface from above or below
Result of Radiant Heat,Direct Flame Impingement, or

Smoldering in a localized area
Downward Penetration (Unusual)
- May be result of Flashover in pre-existing opening

- Dropping of flaming or smoldering materials
Examples - Burning of Polyurethane Mattresses

- Burning of Couches,Chair sofas
- Pool of Accelerant
PATTERN INDICATORS
Burnthrough
To determine Burn Direction
- Check sides of hole

- Check extent of damage on surface
and underside
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Burnthrough
PATTERN INDICATORS
Charring
Burned Carbonaceous Material that has a blackened appearance

Chemical Decomposition of Wood when exposed to elevated temperatures
Produce gases,water vapours and pyrolysis products such as smoke
Cracks/Blisters form when material shrinks during charring process
Formation of Char affected by

- Rate & Duration of Heating
- Ventilation Effects
- Area to Mass Ratio
- Direction,Orientation & Size of grains
- Species of Wood
- Moisture Content
- Nature of Coating
PATTERN INDICATORS
Charring
PATTERN INDICATORS
Charring
Rated of charring - 1 inch per 45 mins

(Lab result based on furnace test using pine timber)
Depth of Char can be used to estimate duration of a fire.

However, no specific time of burning can be determined
based solely upon the depth of char measured
Relative Depth & extent of Char may help to determine areas

of heaviest damage
Wood tends to gain/lose moisture according to ambient

conditions. Not true to say that old wood burns faster
because it loses its moisture as it ages.
Depth of Char reliable to establish fire spread

PATTERN INDICATORS
Charring
Measured with blunt-ended probes such as Calipers, Tire Tread

Depth Gauges,Char Gauges
Char Depth are measured from the centre of char blisters/cracks
No Scientific Justification as yet for the following indications:
- Large, Shiny blisters (Alligator Char or

Alligatoring) may not indicate use of
liquid accelerant
- Dull, shiny or Coloured Char indicate use of

hydrocarbon accelerant
PATTERN INDICATORS
Spalling
Breaking off of layers/pieces of concrete from the surface of a
structural element when exposed to high and rapidly rising
temperatures of fires.
Types of Spalling
- Surface Pitting (minor)
- Explosive Spalling
- Corner Break-off (Weakened)
Factors influencing Spalling

- Moisture Content
- Comprehensive Stresses
- Aggregate Types
- Reinforcement Cover
- Profile of Section
- Thermal Barrier
- Rapid Cooling
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Spalling
PATTERN INDICATORS
Oxidation
All materials are subjects to oxidation

when exposed to heat
The higher the Temperature and longer

the Exposure, the more pronounce the
oxidation effects
Oxidation form line of Demarcation
- Colour of Oxide not important

PATTERN INDICATORS
Melting of materials
Changes in physical state of material exposed
Border between melted and solid portions of material

produce Lines of Heat and Temperature Demarcation
Knowing the melting points of various materials can help

to establish the temperatures reached during a fire
Examples - Cu (Wire) 1082 °C

- Al 660 °C
- Glass 593 - 1427 °C
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Melting of materials
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Melting of Plastics
PATTERN INDICATORS
Thermal Expansion & Deformation of Material
All materials Expand when Heated
Expansion cause Bending of Steel Beam &

Column at 593 °C
Steel will not support its own weight at 816 °C
Load stress increases Deformation
Bending is not a result of melting
Rapid Cooling of heated steel will not cause

collapse
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Thermal Expansion &
Deformation of Material
PATTERN INDICATORS
Clean Burn
Seen on Non - Combustible surfaces when soot/ smoke deposits burn off
( Further Oxidation effect)
Result of Direct Flame Contact or Intense Radiant Heat
Demarcation Lines between Clean burn and the soot areas

may be used to determined
- Direction of Fire spread

- Differences in intensity or time of burning
May not necessarily indicate PFO

(May be seen at Window Openings)
PATTERN INDICATORS
Clean Burn
PATTERN INDICATORS
Calcination
Result of fire driving off the natural water contents in plaster or

gypsum board
When Gypsum wallboard is exposed to heat

- paper surface will char
- paper surface may burn off depending on intensity
- Exposed side will Grey from the charring of the organic binder
- Grey through to the other side. Paper surface on the other side
may begins to char
- Exposed surface become white as carbon is burned away

- Turn Completely white no paper left on both side(crumbly solid)
PATTERN
INDICATORS
Calcination
PATTERN INDICATORS
Calcination
Fire Rated Gypsum Board has mineral Fiber

particles added to preserve the strength of the
wall board during fire exposure (fibers add
strength to the Material even thoroughly
calcined)
Calcined and Non-Caicined portion form Line/

Area of Demarcation
PATTERN INDICATORS
Window Glass
Temperature difference of 60 °C or more

between exposed & insulated portions of glass
will result in Long,Smoothly Undulating
Cracks radiating from the edge of the frame to
the centre of pane
Sudden Flame Contact during Flashover will

cause glass to fracture. Not the normal
pressure Buildup
Backdraft can break window and force them from frames
Crazing - Complicated pattern of small cracks

PATTERN INDICATORS
Window Glass
Crazing,small craters, or pits
- Application of water on glass surface (316 °C)

- Rapid Cooling Effect
Glass Fragments Free of Soot/ Smoke
- Glass subject to rapid heating

- Broken early in the fire
Presence of thick, oily soot on glass
- May be result of incomplete combustion of

wood/other materials
- Not necessarily use of accelerant
PATTERN INDICATORS
Collapsed Spring
What is a Collapsed Spring ?
- 40-60 % reduction in height

- Total Collapse where all coils touching
- Any Permanent Reduction/Deformation in overall spring height
- Permanent Deformation in Metal (Creep)
Mattress Material
- Steel Spring Coil

- Polyurethane Foam Rubber
- Plastics
- Burn with Flaming Drips
- BTU output similar to accelerant
- Localised concentration of Thermal Damage
PATTERN INDICATORS
Collapsed Spring
PATTERN INDICATORS
Collapsed Spring
Steel can creep at temperature exceeding 532 °C

while under much lower load than at Room Temperature
Annealing of Spring (Loss of tension)
- a function of total heat treatment
Tests have showed that Annealing & Collapse of Springs in
- Short Term High Temperature Heating (871 °C)

- Long Term Moderate Temperature Heating (399 °C)
- Presence of Weight Load during Heating
- Test Burn and Isothermal Treatment
- Smoldering and Accelerant Burn simulation
PATTERN INDICATORS
Collapsed Springs
Other factors contributing to spring collapse
- Innerspring Construction
(Lateral or Free Standing)
- Weight of victim/user
- Combustible placed/dropped on the bed

PATTERN INDICATORS
Heat shadowing
Occurs when object blocks path of Radiated

Heat, Convected Heat, or Direct Flame Contact
Any object that absorbs/reflects heat

produces HEAT SHADOW on the material
protects
Not affected by conduction
Assist Investigator in Scene Reconstruction

PATTERN INDICATORS
Heat shadowing
PATTERN INDICATORS
Protected Area
Caused by object preventing the deposit of

combustion products
Examples - Vase on Table Top

- Picture on wall
Assist Investigator in Scene Reconstruction

PATTERN INDICATORS
Protected Area
PATTERN INDICATORS
Low Level Burning
May be produced by an accelerant
If Indicators suggested use of accelerant
- Combustible Gas Detection

- Perform Debris/Residue Analysis
Can be produced by Drop Down (Fall Down)

creating Burnthrough
May be result of Post - Flashover Conditions

PATTERN
INDICATORS
Low Level Burning
PATTERN INDICATORS
Material Distortion
Change in Physical Shape
Incandescent Light Bulb (25 Watt and above)
- Gas expand when heated

- Push out softened glass in direction
of heat source
- Bubble’ Effect
Incandescent Light Bulb (Under 25 Watt)
- Vacuum created
- Exposed surface pull inward
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘V’ Pattern

The Inverted ‘V’ Pattern
The Hourglass Pattern

The ‘U’ Pattern
The Truncated Cone Pattern
The Pointer & Arrow Pattern
Circular Pattern
The Linear Pattren

The ‘Doughnut’ Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘V’ Pattern
On Vertical Surface
Lateral Spread of the sides caused by Radiant Heat from
Above and by the Upward and Outward movement of
Flames and Hot Fire Gases when they encounter a
Horizontal Surface (Ceiling, Shelve, Table Top)
Angled lines traced back to PFO
Generally, the wider the angle the longer the material was
burned/heated
Wider angle on combustible surface vs non-combustible
Surface (Comparable Heat Source)
INCORRECT
- Fast-burning fire produces Narrow-angled “V”
- Slow-burning fire produces Narrow-angled “V”
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘V’ Pattern
Angle of ‘V’ are combined result of
- Fire Size
- Burning Rate
- Ventilation
- Combustibility of walls
NOT Rate of Heat Release (RHR) Alone
Indicates Direction of Fire Spread
v
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘V’ Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘Inverted-V’ Pattern
Inverted Cone pattern
Resulted of short of short - lived fire
- Do not evolve into floor-to-ceiling flame plumes
No relationship to RHR
Not True that they are caused by
- Fast - Burning Fire

- Liquid Accelerant Fire
Examples - Leaking Natural Gas

(Leak below Ground Level)
- Burning of shoes at shoe rack
PATTERN
GEOMETRIES
The ‘Inverted-V’ Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Result from the combination of the plume of hot gases and flame zone
Plume of Hot Fire Gases - ‘V’
Plume of Flame Zone - Inverted ‘V’
Obvious if fire is very close to or in contact with
the vertical surface
PATTERN
GEOMETRIES
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The ‘U’ Pattern
Similar to ‘V’
Curved Lines of Demarcation
Result of the effects of Radiant Heat as vertical
surface distant (further) away from the heat source
u v
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The Truncated Cone Pattern
Truncated Plume
3 - Dimensional Pattern
On Horizontal & Two Vertical Surfaces
Cone - shape result of the Natural

expansion of the fire plume as it rises
and the horizontal spread of the heat
energy when the plume encounters
a horizontal surface (ceiling)
PATTERN
GEOMETRIES
The Truncated
Cone Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Commonly displayed on remains of vertical wooden wall,
beam and studs
Shorter and more severely charred studs were closer to heat source
Height of remaining studs increases away from the last source

PATTERN GEOMETRIES
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The Circular Pattern
Overall Curved, Irregular, or Pool- shaped
Usually Protected Area
Protection From from Circular items
- Waste basket
- Cup
May be Result of
- Flaming Drip
- Splashed Liquid Accelerant
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
The Circular Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Linear Pattern
Overall Linear or Elongated shape on horizontal

surface
Examples - Trailer of Liquid,solid, or both
May be result of normal wear to the floor and floor

covering due to high traffic
May be produced by ignited Fuel Gas jet
Examples - Flash fire

- Faulty Acetylene Cutter
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Linear Pattern
PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Ring - shaped burned surface surrounding a less burned area
May be indicative of Accelerant pool
- Result of cooling effects of the

vapourisation in the centre of pool
- Hottest Region above Pool Centre
- Edges burn, Charring around perimeter

PATTERN GEOMETRIES
Supporting Evidence to substantiate Accelerant used
- Combustible Gas Detection

- Chromatographic Analysis
Eliminate Possible Effects of
- Flashover
- Ventilation/Airflow
- Building Collapse
- Hot Gases
- Melted Plastics
- Drop Downs
BACKWARDS THEORY
Systematic investigation process that ensure that the total

occupancy is investigated
Backwards Investigation
- Conductor from exterior to interior

- From least damaged to most damaged areas
Take Note of
- Pattern Indicators
- Pattern Geometries
- Fire Patterns
FIRE SCENE
RECONSTRUCTION
Act of reconstructing the fire scene by replacing burned

furnishing, contents to its original layout
Involve validating Pattern Indicators and Analysis of Fire Patterns
Take into account information provided by Witness, First Responders, etc.
A Tool for Solving the Whole Puzzle

CONCLUSION
Understanding Fire Patterns and Pattern Indicators

enable the investigator to correctly locate and determine
the Point of Fire Origin
Findings can meet challenges of other investigating agencies

QUESTION & ANSWERS
?
? When
Why
What
?
?
? Where
?
How
?
CIVIL DEFENCE :
READINESS IS OUR ONLY PROTECTION
SCDF
FIRE INVESTIGATION SYSTEM
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
AIMREADINESS
& REQUIRED ATTAINMENTS
IS OUR ONLY PROTECTION
AIM :
Participants will be able to explain the SCDF Fire Investigation

System and the modus operandi of the Fire Investigation Branch
REQUIRED ATTAINMENTS :
Identify and Explain the Categorisation of Fire Incidents
Identify the responsibilities for the conduct of Fire Investigation
Describe and explain the use of the various types of

Fire Investigation Report
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
SCOPE
INTRODUCTION
CATEGORISATION OF FIRE INCIDENTS
RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE CONDUCT OF

FIRE INVESTIGATIONS
FIRE INVESTIGATION REPORTS
PROCEDURE FOR COURT HEARING
PUBLIC REQUESTS
CONCLUSION
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
INTRODUCTION
• Fire investigation by the SCDF serves three basic purposes :
- To determine the probable cause of fire so that measures

can be taken to further enhance the Fire Safety Act’s Enforcement
Programme and the Public Education Programme;
- To ascertain whether there was any act of incendiarism through

a structured approach of investigating procedures, detecting and
providing substantiated evidence/findings for conviction of incendiary
act; and
- To provide accurate information on fire occurences which may be

of value & important to relevant authorities and agencies.
Aba05/02
INTRODUCTION
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Organisation Structure
READINESS of FIB
IS OUR ONLY PROTECTION
Head FIB
CHIEF FIRE INVESTIGATOR
ADMIN CLERKS
( 3 X NSFs)
FIT 1
2
SENIOR FIRE 3
INVESTIGATOR
FIRE INVESTIGATOR
ASSISTANT
FIRE INVESTIGATOR
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Categorisation to Demarcate Investigation Responsibilities
Three Main Categories
- CAT A
- CAT B
- CAT C1 & C2
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
CategoryREADINESS
A Fires IS OUR ONLY PROTECTION
Fires (and not its effects) involving more than a room

or compartment.
Fires that are sensitive in nature and defined as fires

involving fatality, key government/foreign institution,
embassy, religious establishments; or any other fires
having the potential of arousing anxiety or interest
amongst the public or the media.
Fires involving death and mass casualties (more than 3

burn injuries) conveyed by SCDF Ambulance.
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category B Fires
Fires (and not it’s effects) generally involving and confined

within a room or compartment.
Fires involving burn injuries conveyed by SCDF Ambulance.
Fires involving more than one motorised vehicle

(Excluding motorcycles).
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category C Fires
Category C1
Minor fires not belonging to Category A and B,

generally limited to and around the Point of Fire Origin.
Fires involving a motorised vehicle, machinery and/or motorcycles.
Fires involving burn injuries not conveyed by SCDF Ambulance.
Category C2
Fires of insignificant value ( in monetary terms) such as rubbish,

lallang fire, etc.
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR THE CONDUCT OF FIRE INVESTIGATIONS
Commander of Line Units to ensure that all fires

within their Boundaries are properly investigated
First Responding Ground Commander to size-up

and categorise the fire
Control Room activate respective level of response

for investigations
Overhaul/Excavation Activities to be initiated

by FIT for CAT A & B Fires
Aba05/02
RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE
CONDUCT OF FIRE INVESTIGATIONS
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category A Fires
Division Commander
Chief Fire Investigator
Fire Investigation Team (FIT)
Aba05/02
Category CIVIL
A Fires
DEFENCE :
CAT A
Joint Investigation
Consultation Of
By
Specialist/Technical Advice
Div Comd, CFI & FIT
No Yes
FIT Forward Incendiary FIT Forwards
PFIR To Police Fire ? PFIR To Police
SFI SFI
Submit AFIR Submit IFIR
CFI Verify & CFI Verify &

Approve AFIR Approve IFIR
Aba05/02 END
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category B Fires
Fire Investigation Team (FIT)
OC Station
Aba05/02
Category B Fires :
CIVIL DEFENCE
CAT B
FIT
conduct
investigation
No Yes
FIT Forward Incendiary FIT Forwards
FI FI
SFI Verify & SFI Verify &

Aba05/02 END
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category C1 Fires
OC Station
Rota Officer
Rota Leader
Ops NCO
Aba05/02
Category C1 Fires :
CIVIL DEFENCE
CAT C1
OC Station
Conduct Investigation
No Yes
RO/RL/NCO Forwards Incendiary RO/RL/NCO Forwards
OC Station OC Station
SFI Verify & SFI Verify &

Aba05/02 END
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Category C2 Fires
Rota Officer
Rota Leader
Ops NCO
Aba05/02
Category C2DEFENCE
CIVIL Fires :
CAT C2
OC Station
Conduct Investigation
RO/RL/NCO Forwards No Yes RO/RL/NCO Forwards

PFIR To Police Incendiary IFIR To Police
Fire ?
RO/RL/NCO
Submit IFIR
OC Station
Verify IFIR
SFI
Approve IFIR
Aba05/02 END
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Fire Incident Report (FIR)
Preliminary Fire Investigation Report (PFIR)
Accidental Fire Investigation Report (AFIR)
Incendiary Fire Investigation Report (IFIR)
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
READINESS
Fire Incident ReportIS(FIR)
OUR ONLY PROTECTION
A Statistical Documentation
Data/Information
- Operations
- Resources
- Affected Premises/Entities
- Fire Loss Estimate
- Injury/Fatality
- Fire Investigation
To Facilitate Statistics Generation
OPS CENTRE Printout is Evidentiary for Occurences/Happening
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Aba05/02
FIRE INCIDENT REPORT (FIR)
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Aba05/02
SAFEST INCIDENT REPORT (IR)
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Preliminary Fire Investigation Report (PFIR)
For Police’s Immediate Follow up
Fill in Duplicate
- One copy to Police

- One copy to FIB attached to AFIR/IFIR
To be filled by the Leading Investigator of the respective fires
- Cat A and B Fire By FIT

- Cat C1 By OC Station
- Cat C2 By Rota Officer/Leader/NCO
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Aba05/02 PRELIMINARY
FIRE INVESTIGATION REPORT (PFIR)
Accidental Fire Investigation Report (AFIR)

CIVIL DEFENCE :
READINESS
Determined IS OUR
Nature of Fire CauseONLY PROTECTION
- ACCIDENTAL
Submit to FIB within 28 Days (4 Weeks) of Incident
Complete with Attachments

- PFIR
- Incident Report (IR)
- Photo Negatives
AFIR Not Required for Cat C2 Fires
Security Grading - CONFIDENTIAL
Submit in sealed envelope
Cat A Cat B Cat C1 Cat C2

Fires Fires Fires Fires
Submission of Report SFI FI OC Station
No AFIR
Vetting of Report CFI SFI SFI required
Approval of Report
Aba05/02 CFI SFI SFI
CIVIL
Incendiary Fire DEFENCE : Report (IFIR)
Investigation
Determined Nature of Fire Cause - INCENDIARY
Submit to FIB within 28 Days (4 Weeks) of Incident
Complete with Attachments

- PFIR
- Incident Report (IR)
- Photo Negatives
Security Grading - CONFIDENTIAL
Submit in sealed envelope
Cat A Cat B Cat C1 Cat C2

Fires Fires Fires Fires
Submission of Report SFI FI OC Station RO/RL/NCO
Vetting of Report CFI SFI SFI OC Station
Approval of Report CFI SFI SFI SFI

Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Aba05/02 INCENDIARY
FIRE INVESTIGATION REPORT (PFIR)
CIVIL DEFENCE :
PROCEDURE FOR COURT HEARING
To ensure appropriate Representation
To Provide SCDF Officers with Consistent Guidance in

Court Presentation
To uphold the investigator’s Credibilities viz a structured

and systematically preparation
Cat A Fires Cat B Fires Cat C1 Fires Cat C2 Fires
CFI SFI OC Station RO/RL/NCO
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Procedure for Court Hearing Court Subpoena
received by
SCDF officers(s) involved
in the fire incident
Officer(s) concerned
to inform
Fire Investigation Branch
Fire Investigation Branch

prepares Officer(s)
to present testimony in Court
Assigned SFI/FI
to accompany Officer(s)
to Court Hearing
END
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
PUBLIC REQUESTS
Requests of Fire Reports before 1 June 1995
Requests of Fire Reports on/after 1 June 1995
Requests to be Channelled to FIB for documentation
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE
Public Requests : Request from Public
Written
Finance Branch
channel to FIB
FIB
Fire Incident
YES NO
occurred before
1 June 95
Division HQ Prepares & FIB Prepares & Forward

Forward Fire Report Fire Report
to FIB for processing to Finance Branch
Finance Branch collect payment and

send Fire Report to Public
END
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
CONCLUSION
FIB established to maintain a credible fire investigation system

and to project SCDF as the indisputable authority in Singapore.
System serves to provide a structured and systematic division

of responsibilities in respect of fire investigations.
Aim to propagate and uphold professionalism in fire investigations.
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
READINESS IS OUR ONLY
QUESTIONS &PROTECTION
ANSWERS
? ?
When
??
What
Why
? ?
?
Aba05/02
How Where
CIVIL DEFENCE :
REVIEW OF OBJECTIVES
AIM :
Participants will be able to explain the SCDF Fire Investigation System

and the modus operandi of the Fire Investigation Branch
REQUIRED ATTAINMENTS :
Identify and Explain the Categorisation of Fire Incident
Identify the responsibilities for the conduct of Fire Investigation
Describe and explain the use of the various types of Fire Investigation Report
Explain the requirements in the preparation and submission of FI Reports
Aba05/02
CIVIL DEFENCE :
THANK YOU
&
GOOD LUCK
Ops Dept
HQ SCDF
OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
SINGAPORE CIVIL DEFENCE FORCE
Aba05/02
BASIC FIREMANSHIP
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
Chemistry and Physics of

Fire Behaviour
Last Review: 1st July 2007

AIM FIRE
INVESTIGATION
To identify and explain the path of fire travel resulting

from flame, heat and other products of combustion at
the fire scene.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
Upon successful completion of this lesson the trainee

will be able to:
1. Define and explain basic fire chemistry terminology

2. Define and explain the life cycle of a fire
3. Describe and define the four classes of fire
4. Identify the four categories of combustion products
5. Identify predictable development stages of a room fire.
6. Understand and explain the flashover and
backdraft phenomenon.
SCOPE
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Introduction
• Terms and Definitions
• Life Cycle of Fire
• Fire Development
• Conclusion
• Questions and Answers
INTRODUCTION
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Why do Fire Investigators need to know the Chemistry

and Physics of fire behaviour?
- Based on Scientific Principles/Approaches

- Enable Logical Analysis
• Why is it important?
- More accurate deductions with this approach
- Backbone of the Investigators technical
credibility and Expertise
INTRODUCTION
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
It is capital mistake to theorize before one has data;

Insensibly one begins to twist to suit theories,
instead of theories to suit facts!
SHERLOCK
HOLMES
FIRE
TERMS & DEFINITIONS INVESTIGATION
What is a Fire ?
What is a Flame ?
What is Oxidation ?
What is Combustion ?
Need to Define
Oxidation
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A Chemical Reaction
• Combination of Oxygen & Element

(Slow Rate of Reaction)
• Evolution of Heat (Energy)
• Examples - Paper Yellowing

- Rusting Process
Combustion
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A Chemical Reaction
• Combination of Oxygen & Element (Fuel)
• Rapid Rate of Oxidation

• Evolution of Heat & Light (Energies) in varying Intensities
- Flaming Combustion
- Glowing Combustion
Examples - A Flaming Candle Wick
- A Glowing Charcoal/Incense
• By- Products of Combustion

- Heat - Smoke
- Flame (Light) - Fire Gases
Heat
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A By- Product of Combustion
• Heat of Combustion
- Heat evolved when a definite
quantity of substance is completely
oxidised (Burned)
• A Form of Energy associated with and

proportional to Molecular Motion
Flame
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A By- Product of Combustion
• Light Energy of Combustion

(A Phenomenon)
• Luminous portion of burning gases or

vapours
Smoke
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• By- Products of incomplete combustion
• A Colloidal or microscopic dispersion

of a solid in gas, an aerosol
• Examples
- Coal Smoke (C Particles)
- Wood Smoke (Cellulose Ash)
- Chemical Smoke (H2S, HCl)
FIRE
Gases INVESTIGATION
• A By- Product of complete or incomplete

Combustion
• Combustion Fire Gases
- Carbon Dioxide, CO
- Hydrogen Cyanide, HCN
- Ammonia, NH3
- Hydrogen Chloride, HCl
• Contribute to
- Flashover (Rollover)
- Backdraft (Smoke Explosion)
Triangle of Combustion
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
OXYGEN
FUEL HEAT
FIRE
Tetrahedron of Combustion INVESTIGATION
OXYGEN
FUEL HEAT
UNINHIBITED
CHAIN
REACTION
Tetrahedron of Combustion
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
FIRE
(PFO)
Fire
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A Diffusion Flame Process
• A rapid, self-sustaining OXIDATION

process (COMBUSTION) accompanied
by the evolution of HEAT and Light of
varying intensities.
- Richard Tuve, Principles of Fire
Protection Chemistry
• By-Product of Combustion
• A Situation
Types of Fire
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Class A Fires - Involved ordinary

Combustible
Material.
Examples - Wood, cloth, paper, rubber,
plastics
• Class B Fires - Involved flammable/
combustible
Examples - Gasoline, natural gases
• Class C Fires - Involved energised

electrical equipment
Examples - Circuit Breaker,
Electrical Appliance
• Class D Fires - Involved combustible
metals
Examples - Mg, Ti, Zi, Na, K
Ignition Temperature
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Temperature at which the vapours of a

specific material that will ignite
• Specific to the Chemical Composition of

the Material
• Flash Point vs Flame Point

Flash Point
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Lowest Temperature Point at which a solid

or material produces sufficient vapours
to burn under laboratory conditions
• Transient Flash when vapour is ignited

Flame Point
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A few degrees above Flash Point
• Lowest temperature point at which heat

produced from the flash-burning vapour
will continue to produce further vapour
to sustain a continuos flame
• Combustion Process Continued
• Flame Propagation Occurs

• (Independent of Ignition Source)
Auto/Piloted Ignition
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Auto-Ignition (Spontaneous)
• Piloted-Ignition (Naked Flame)

Specific Gravity
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• For Liquid Fuel
• Ratio of Weight of the Subsistence of that

of Water
• Specific Gravity of Water = 1 (Assigned)
• Sink vs Float on Water

Vapour Density
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• For Gaseous Fuel
• Ratio of Weight of a Volume of Gas to

an Equal Volume of Air
• Vapour Density of Air = 1(Assigned)
• Rise vs Sink to ground level

Pyrolysis
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Transformation of a compound into one

or more other substances by HEAT alone.
• Pyrophoric Carbonisation
• Product-Pyrophoric Carbon
(Almost Pure C)
(By-Product of Combustion/Oxidation)
FIRE
Pyrolysis INVESTIGATION
• Low Temperature Exposure
- As low as 121ºC (100ºC) over

Extended period of Time
Examples - Combustible near Light Bulb

- Combustible near Steam Pipe
• Low Temperature Ignition Dependent on
- Level of Heat Exposure

- Duration of Exposure
- Mass/Density/Nature of Material
- Ventilation
- Weeks to Several Years
Flammability vs Combustibility FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Flammability - Ease of ignition

- Extent of Flame
Propagation
• Combustibility - Ignitability of
material regardless
of Ease of Ignition
• Difficult to define on solids
Combustible
- Chemical nature/composition
- Physical states/subdivision
Flammable
Flammability vs Combustibility
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Flammable liquid
(Flash Point <100ºF or 37.8ºF)
- Butane (FP : -60ºC)
• Combustible liquid
(Flash Point >100ºF or 37.8ºF)
- Kerosene (FP :37.8 - 65.5ºC)
Limits of Flammability
(Explosive Limits) FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Range of Ignitable Composition of a

specific material at a given Pressure,
Temperature, Humidity, etc.
• LEL - Lower Explosive Limit
UEL - Upper Explosive Limit
• Example
- Acetylene (2.5% LEL - 80% UEL)
- Hydrogen (4.1% LEL - 74% UEL)
Too Lean Rich Rich
Lean Mixture Mixture Mixture
0% LEL Ideal Ideal 100%

4.1% Mixture Mixture [H2]
Hydrogen Flammable Range

Life Cycle of Fire
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Element 1 - Input Heat
• Element 2 - Fuel
• Element 3 - Oxygen (Air)
• Element 4 - Proportioning
(LEL/UEL)
• Element 5 - Mixing
• Element 6 - Ignition Continuity

(Chain Rxn)
Element 1 - Input Heat
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• A form of Energy associated with and

proportional to molecular motion
• Basic Source of Heat Energy
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Chemical
- Nuclear
• Measured in British Thermal Units (Btu) or

Joule (J)
Element 2 - Fuel
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Solid or Liquid Materials do not Burn
• Only Vapours Burn
• Materials need to be HEATED and vapours

produced for combustion to take place
• Combustible Liquids - Flash Point

above 37.8ºC
• Flammable Liquids - Flash Point

above 37.8ºC
Element 3 - Oxygen
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Atmospheric - Primary Source
• About 20.8% by Volume
• About 15 - 16% needed for flaming

combustion
• About 8% needed for charring or

smouldering (Pyrolysis)
• Oxidiser - Primary/Secondary Source
Examples - Chlorine and Ammonium Nitrate

(C12) (NH4NO3)
Element 4 & 5 -
Proportioning & Mixing FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Explosive/Flammable Limits
(LEL, UEL, Ideal mixture)
• Physical Reactions such as Diffusion,

Osmosis, Air Draft, etc
Examples - Propane 2.15 (LEL) 9.6 (UEL)

Element 6 - Ignition Continuity FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Thermal Feedback from the fire to the fuel
• Basic Methods of Heat Transfer
- Conduction
- Convection
- Radiation
• Direct flame Impingement

(Combination of 2 or more basic methods)
Basic Methods of Heat Transfer FIRE
INVESTIGATION
Conduction
Convection Radiation
Cool Air
Fire Extinguishment
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Starvation - Removal of Fuel
• Smothering - Removal of
Oxygen Supply
• Cooling - Removal of Heat
• Inhibition - Interruption of
Chain Reaction
Fire Development FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Stages//Phases of Fire Development
- Incipient (Growth)
- Free Burning (Development)
- Smouldering (Decay)
• Flashover Phenomenon
• Backdraft Phenomenon
• Effects of Fire Development and its associated

Phenomenon are important to Investigators
FIRE DEVELOPMENT FIRE
INVESTIGATION
TEMPERATURE
FREE BURNING DECAY
FLASHOVER
STAGE
INCIPIENT
STAGE
TIME
INCIPIENT STAGE (GROWTH) FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Begin at the moment of Ignition

( Flame are Localised)
• Fuel Regulated
• Fire Propagation regulated by Configuration,Mass

and Geometry of the Fuel
• Evolution of Combustible Fire Gases
- SO2,CO,HCN,HCl
Free Burning Stage
(Developmental) FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• More Fuel Consumed; Fire Intensifies
• Flames Spread upward & outward from PFO by

Conduction, Radiation and Direct Flame Impingement
• Hot Dense layer of Soot & Combustible Fire Gases

Collect at upper level and begin to radiate heat downward
• Ceiling Temperature Rises Rapidly Floor
• Temperature Relatively Cooler
• Lowering of Hot Combustible Fire Gases

SMOULDERING STAGE (DECAY) FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Fuel Consumed
• Open Burning Becomes less Prevalent
• Glowing Combustion
• Hazards Present
- High Temperature
- Combustible Fire Gases
• Oxygen Regulated
FLASHOVER FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Temperature Regulated Phenomenon
• Conditions To Happen
• Enclosed Environment
• Sufficient Accumulation of Soot and combustible

Fire Gases
• Adequate Oxygen Supply for Combustion
• Increasing Temperature/Heat Buildup
• Simultaneous Ignition of all fuel when sufficiently

High Temperature is reached ( approx. 600 ºC )
FLASHOVER FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• When Flashover occurs, temperature can reached up to
• 1000 ºC (Ceiling Level)

• 600 ºC (Floor level)
• Resultant window breaking and full involvement of

structure follows quickly
BACKDRAFT FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Oxygen Regulated Phenomenon
• Smoke Explosion
• Condition To Happen
- Enclosed Environment
- Sufficiently High Temperature

( Exceeding Ignition Temperature)
- Low/Limited Oxygen Supply
- Sudden influx of Oxygen Supply cause

instantaneous ignition with explosive force
BACKDRAFT FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Explosive Pressure generated can cause
- Significant Structural Damage
- Endanger live of Personnel
• Danger of Backdraft during Overhaul/Damping

Down Exists
CONCLUSION FIRE
INVESTIGATION
• Fire is a very complex chemical process
• Fire Science provides a Scientific Basis for Investigators
• Knowledge of the basic chemistry and physics of fire

behaviour enable the investigators to formulate opinions
and perform logical analysis
CONCLUSION
FIRE
INVESTIGATION
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
? When ?
?
Why
How ? What
Where ?
•Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities •
Globally
Introduce the topic
Scope
 Introduction
 Drencher/Water Spray Systems
 Foam Systems
 Conclusion

Globally
Automatic sprinklers are devices for automatically distributing water upon a fire in sufficient quantity either to extinguish it entirely or to control its spread.
The water is fed to the sprinklers through a system of piping, ordinarily suspended from the ceiling, with the sprinklers placed at intervals along the pipes. The orifice
of the fusible link automatic sprinkler is normally closed by a disk or cap held in place by a temperature sensitive releasing element.
The terms sprinkler protection, sprinkler installations and sprinkler systems usually signify a combination of water discharge devices (sprinklers), one or more sources
of water under pressure, water flow controlling devices (valves), distribution piping to supply the water to the discharge devices and auxiliary equipment, such as
alarms and supervisory devices.
Learning
Objectives
 Explain the
operation of
various
automatic fire
extinguishing
systems

Globally
Introduce the learning objectives
Fire Extinguishment Agents &
Systems
 Water spray system

 Foam system

Globally
There are five major classifications of automatic sprinkler systems. Each type of system includes piping for carrying water from a source of supply to the sprinklers in
the area under protection. The five major classifications of systems are
Drencher/Water

Globally
Introduce water spray system
What is Water Spray
System ?
A special fixed pipe system connected
to a reliable supply of fire
protection water & equipped with
water spray nozzles for specific
water discharge & distribution over
the surface or area to be protected

Globally
A water spray system is a special fixed pipe system connected to a reliable supply of fire protection water, and equipped with water spray nozzles for specific water
discharge and distribution over the surface or area to be protected. The piping system is connected to the water supply through an automatically or manually actuated
valve which initiates the flow of water.
Water Spray System
 Connected to water supply thru’

automatic or manual actuated valve
 water fog
 differs only in form of spray with
sprinkler
 can serve both purposes

Globally
The term water spray refers to the use of water that has a predetermined pattern, particle size, velocity and density and that is discharged from specially designed
nozzles or devices. Water spray for fire protection has been called water fog, fog or by trade name designations applied by equipment manufacturers. (See Annex F of
water spray nozzles).
Water Spray Nozzle

Globally
The term water spray refers to the use of water that has a predetermined pattern, particle size, velocity and density and that is discharged from specially designed
nozzles or devices. Water spray for fire protection has been called water fog, fog or by trade name designations applied by equipment manufacturers. (See Annex F of
water spray nozzles).
Purpose of Water Spray
System
 Extinguishment
 Controlled burning
 Exposure protection
 Prevention of fire

Globally
Fixed water spray systems are most commonly used to protect flammable liquid and gas tank age, piping and equipment such as transformers, oil switches, and
rotating electrical machinery, and openings in fire walls and floors through which conveyors pass. The type of water spray required for any particular hazard will
depend on the nature of the hazard and the purpose for which the protection is provided.
Extinguishment
 Cooling
 smothering from steam produced
 dilution
 combination

Globally
Extinguishment ---- Extinguishment of fire by water spray i.e. accomplished by cooling, smothering from steam produced, emulsification of some liquids, dilution in
some cases, or a combination of these factors.
Controlled Burning
 Burning materials not susceptible

to extinguishment by water spray
 extinguishment not desirable

Globally
Controlled Burning ---- with its consequent limitation of fire spread, controlled burning may be applied if the burning combustible materials are not susceptible to
extinguishment by water spray, or if extinguishment is not desirable.
Exposure Protection
 Application of water spray on

exposed structures or equip
 Water spray curtains less effective

Globally
Exposure Protection ---- Exposure protection is accomplished by application of water spray directly to the exposed structures or equipment to remove or reduce the
heat transferred to them from the exposing fire. Water spray curtains mounted at a distance from the exposed surface are less effective than direct application.
Water curtain
Globally
Exposure Protection ---- Exposure protection is accomplished by application of water spray directly to the exposed structures or equipment to remove or reduce the
heat transferred to them from the exposing fire. Water spray curtains mounted at a distance from the exposed surface are less effective than direct application.
Prevention of Fire
 Dissolve
 Dilute
 disperse
 cool
Flammable & Combustible material

Globally
Prevention of Fire ---- It is sometimes possible to use water spray to dissolve, dilute, disperse or cool flammable or combustible materials before they can ignite from
an exposing ignition source.
Water Spray System
Suitable Area Of Protection
 Ordinary combustible materials

 Electrical Equipment Installation
 Flammable gas and liquids
 Flammable liquids and gas tanks
 Open cable trays and runs
containing electrical cables or
tubing

Globally
Water spray protection is advantageous in meeting the above mentioned purposes when it is applied to the following types of materials or equipment:
Foam System

Globally
Introduce foam system
What is Fire Fighting
Foam ?
An aggregate of gas (air) filled

bubbles formed from aqueous
solutions of specially formulated
concentrated liquid forming agents

Globally
Fire fighting foam is an aggregate of gas filled bubbles formed from aqueous solutions of specially formulated concentrated liquid forming agents. The gas used is
normally air, but in certain applications may be an inert gas. Since foam is lighter than flammable liquids, it floats on all flammable or combustible liquids, producing
an air excluding, cooling, continuous layer of vapour sealing, water bearing material that halts or prevents combustion.
How Foam is produced?
 Foam Concentrate
 Water
 Air
 Form bubble structure

Globally
Foam is produced by mixing a foam concentrate with water at the appropriate concentration and then aerating and agitating the solution to form the bubble structure.
Some foams are capable of producing a vapour sealing film of surface active water solution on a liquid surface. Some are meant to be used as large volumes of wet
gas cells for inundating surfaces and filling cavities.
Range of Foam
 Low expansion foam

- expansion up to 20:1
 Medium expansion foam
- expansion 20:1 to 200:1
 High expansion foam
- expansion 200:1 to 1000:1

Globally
Foams are defined by their expansion ratio, which is the ratio of final foam volume to original foam solution volume before adding air. They are arbitrarily subdivided
into three ranges:
Low Expansion Foam ---- expansion up to 20:1

Medium Expansion Foam ---- expansion 20 to 200:1
High Expansion Foam ---- expansion 200 to 1000:1
How Foam Extinguishes a
Flammable Liquid Fire?
 Lighter than flammable liquid

 Foam blanketing
 Cooling by water

Globally
Low expansion foam is principally used to extinguish burning flammable or combustible liquid spill or tank fires by application to develop a cooling, coherent
blanket. Foam is the only permanent extinguishing agent used for fires of this type. A foam blanket covering the tank’s liquid surface can prevent vapour transmission
for some time, depending upon the stability and depth of the foam.
What happens when foam is
applied on flammable liquid
fire ?
 Breaks down
 water vaporizes by heat & flame
 applied in sufficient volume & rate
 additional amount to be applied

Globally
Fuel spills are quickly rendered safe by foam blanketing. Foams may be used to diminish or halt the generation of flammable vapours from non burning liquids or
solids and may be used to fill cavities or enclosures where toxic or flammable gases may collect.
Type of Foam
 Aqueous film-forming foaming agents

(AFFF)
 Fluoroprotein foaming agents (FP)
 Film-forming fluoroprotein agents (FFFP)
 Protein foaming agents (P)
 Alcohol type foaming agents (AR)

Globally
There are a number of types of foaming agents available, known as foam concentrates, some of which are designed for specific applications. Some are suitable for
extinguishing all types of flammable liquids, including water soluble and foam destructive liquids. Descriptions of the common types of foam follow:
Foam generation
thru’ pump
Water
+pump
Proportioning
Process (liquid) Foam
Generation (air)
Foam
Foam
distribution

Globally
The process of producing and applying fire fighting air foams to hazards requires three separate operations, each of which consumes energy (Annex G). They are:
the proportioning process

the foam generation phase, and
the distribution method
Foam generation
thru’ portable means
Pick-up tube
foam
Foam Branch
Inline
inductor
Foam con
water

Globally
In general practice, air foam generation and distribution occur nearly simultaneously within the same device. There are also many types of proportioning. In certain
portable devices, all three functions are combined into a single device.
Foam Installations
Fixed Foam System

Globally
Fixed Foam Systems – These are complete installations piped from a central foam station, discharging through fixed delivery outlets to the hazard to be protected.
Globally
Fixed Foam Systems – These are complete installations piped from a central foam station, discharging through fixed delivery outlets to the hazard to be protected.
Foam Installations
Semi-fixed Foam System

Globally
Semifixed Foam Systems – The type which the hazard is equipped with fixed discharge outlets connected to piping which terminates at a safe distance. Necessary
foam producing materials are transported to the scene after the fire starts and are connected to the piping
Globally
Semifixed Foam Systems – The type which the hazard is equipped with fixed discharge outlets connected to piping which terminates at a safe distance. Necessary
foam producing materials are transported to the scene after the fire starts and are connected to the piping
The End
Thank You

Globally
End
FIRE SAFETY
REQUIREMENTS
AFFECTING
SHOPHOUSES
UNDER
CONSERVATION
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities 1• Globally
Introduce the topic

Learning Objectives
To interpret and apply the

fire safety requirements to
shophouses under
conservation or existing
before 1969
As conservation buildings need to preserve the unique features of their designs, it is unavoidable that they cannot comply with the fire safety requirements stipulated
under Code of Practice for Fire Precaution in Buildings. The challenge facing the conservation architect is to determine how best to integrate the requirements into the
project without compromising the fire safety standard of the buildings.
Scope
1) Introduction
2) Fire Safety Requirements affecting shophouses under
conservation
3) Fire safety requirements which are often not properly or fully
complied with or overlooked
4) Min. requirements for proposal involving boarding house/
guesthouse/motel/hotel and the like
5) Some fire safety considerations for shophouses under
conservation
6) Conclusion
Scope
(A) Introduction
Introduction
Buildings designated for Conservation
Fire Code 1997 Cl. 1.1.1

Buildings including shophouses, which are
designated for conservation under the Urban
Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) conservation
programme shall comply with the set of
documents on “Fire Safety Requirements
affecting shophouses under Conservation”
issued by URA on 28 Jul 93 under Circular No
URA/PB/93/20-CUDD.
To ensure that conservation buildings attain certain acceptable degree of fire safety protection, and at the same time preserving the unique features of the designs,
FSSB has worked with SIA/URA to publish guidelines on “Fire Safety Requirements affecting shophouses under Conservation” in Jul 1993.
New subclause added under Supplement
1/99 dated 13 Jan 99
The “Fire Safety Requirements affecting shophouses under
Conservation” shall also be applicable to old shophouses, including
residential buildings (except temporary dwelling houses), having
timber floors or staircases, whether designated or not for
conservation by URA, subject to the following conditions:
a) The above relaxation shall be applicable to buildings that

were existing before 1969;
b) There shall be no change of use to boarding houses, hotels,
worker’s quarters and the like, irrespective whether
the building is under conservation or not; and
c) The upgrading of fire safety works shall be applicable to the
whole building; partial upgrading of building is not
acceptable.
6
In addition, on 13 Jan 1999, a new clause has been inserted into the fire code to allow old shophouses (not gazetted as conservation building under URA guidelines)
to comply with the conservation guidelines instead of fire code, provided the building is built before 1969.
In conservation buildings, FSSB allows the architect to retain the existing timber structure. In the use of timber, we have to consider the three distinct requirements in
fire :
(B) Structural timber in fire
Structural timber in fire

Three main considerations
In conservation buildings, FSSB allows the architect to retain the existing timber structure. In the use of timber, we have to consider the three distinct requirements in
fire :
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities10• Globally
“Surface spread of flame”. This is tested to BS 476 part 7 & Part 6 and controls are imposed to prevent fires spreading from one part to another and to ensure that
escape route in particular are not lined with flammable materials.
“Non-combustible” construction. The word “construction” is chosen carefully there, because it covers more than just the structure. The aim of this control is to limit
the amount of fuel incorporated in the building structure. One good example is the control on the introduction of raised timber floor and the use of timber studs/
frames for the construction of staircase walls/ceiling and internal partitions.
Structural fire resistance. Under this category, structural elements are tested to BS 476 part 20 and 21. The structure is required to withstand under load a period of
exposure to heat without collapsing and remain within certain deflection limits. It has also to be capable of being re-loaded 16 hours.
Fire Resistance of Load-Bearing Element
BS476 : PT21
11
Fire Resistance of Load-Bearing Element
BS476 : PT21
12
Fig B1
13
When subjected to gradually increasing temperature, timber reaches a point where charring occurs. The presence of flame is not necessary.
The two main factors which influence the fire resistance of timbers are:
Within the temperature range of up to 1 hr tests, the rate of charring is constant and predictable.
Timber suffers no appreciable loss of strength until charring occurs, so the full strength of the uncharred parts is always available.
2 Structural fire resistance
of timber
Charring of Timber
16
Charring
of
Timber
Fig B2
Timber Joints
Thus, at any time the net section remaining can be predicted, and the strength of the member assessed, using the higher stresses permitted in fire. This method is
explained in BS5268 Part 4
Special consideration should as always be given to the joints of a timber structure in a fire as these are the weak points.
In situation where the structural fire resistance cannot be determined using this method, additional fire protection has to be applied.
Charring Method
Thus, at any time the net section remaining can be predicted, and the strength of the member assessed, using the higher stresses permitted in fire. This method is
explained in BS5268 Part 4
Special consideration should as always be given to the joints of a timber structure in a fire as these are the weak points.
In situation where the structural fire resistance cannot be determined using this method, additional fire protection has to be applied.
3 Fire protection
of
timber floors
Fire protection of timber floors

Basic Requirements of
Fire Protection
Timber floors are classed as combustible construction. However, there are various means by which their structural fire resistance can be improved to satisfy the
requirements of BS 476 Part 20 & 21. It is often possible to obtain a relaxation to any incombustibility requirement. Any upgraded floor also has to satisfy the
integrity and insulation requirements of BS 476 so that the fire does not spread from one floor to another.
The principles which can be used to satisfy these requirements are : sacrificial timber (allowing for charring), applied fire protection and redundancy in the event of
fire. In an unprotected floor, the limiting factor is usually the thickness and integrity of the floor boards.
Example 1
Building Capacity • Enhancing

Figure B3 Capabilities23• Globally
The design of a new concrete floor to carry the imposed loads can be a useful method where the “joist effect” is to be retained and where there is adequate headroom.
The joists have to be able to resist the self weight of the concrete floor, including an allowance for the loads during concreting.
Example 2
Building Capacity • Enhancing

Figure B3 Capabilities25• Globally
Example 3
Figure B3
Example 4
Figure B3
integrity and insulation requirements of BS 476 so that the fire does not spread from one floor to another
Example 5
integrity and insulation requirements of BS 476 so that the fire does not spread from one floor to another
Example 6
Example 7
(C) FIRE SAFETY
REQUIREMENTS
AFFECTING SHOPHOUSES
UNDER CONSERVATION
Fire safety requirements affecting shophoses under conservation

1 Timber floor joists and
boards without addition
of new attic
Timber floor joists and boards (without addition of new attic)

2 storey shophouse
impregnation of timber floor or full protection of floor to achieve ½ hour fire rating
full protection of floor is required if upper storey is for residential use
3 storey shophouse
As per requirements for 2 storey shophouse

4 storey shophouse
Full protection of floor to achieve 1 hour fire rating.
* Protection of timber staircase and floor is not required for residential use.
b. Timber floor joists and boards (with addition of new attic)

4 storey shophouse

4 storey shophouse

2 Timber floor joists and
boards with addition
of new attic
Timber floor joists and boards (with addition of new attic)

2 storey shophouse
full protection to timber floor to achieve ½ hour fire rating.

Attic shall not exceed 50m2 or 50% of the floor below
Protection of staircase at 2nd storey is required.
2 storey shophouse
full protection to timber floor to achieve ½ hour fire rating.

Protection of staircase at 2nd storey is required.
3 storey shophouse
full protection to timber floor to achieve 1 hr fire rating.

4 storey shophouse

3-storey shophouse
Building Capacity
Fig• C3
Enhancing Capabilities46• Globally
4 storey shophouse

3 Protection of staircase
Protection of staircases
Timber staircase
1 hr compartment
timber staircase is to be pressure impregnated with flame retardant chemicals.
Timber Staircase
Timber staircase
1 hr compartment
timber staircase is to be pressure impregnated with flame retardant chemicals.
2 storey & 3 storey residential shophouse
Occupied by one family, staircase may be left exposed without compartmentation.

Residential
Shophouse
Fig C5
2 storey & 3 storey residential shophouse
Occupied by one family, staircase may be left exposed without compartmentation.

2 storey shophouse without attic
Staircase at 2nd storey may be left exposed, provided:
travel distance from the most remote point of the floor to the edge of the staircase landing is less than 13m
alternative staircase is available eg. Rear escape staircase
timber staircase is compartmentalised at 1st storey by 1 hr fire rated enclosures.
Protected staircase and other habitable areas should not share the same airwell for lighting/ventilation
Protected staircase serving more than 2 storey should be contained in a single protected shaft
Airwell
2-storey shophouse without attic
Airwell
Sharing of airwell
for lighting/
ventilation
Airwell
Protection of Staircase
Airwell
4 Airwell
Airwell
Same usage for all floors
Fixed covering
2 storey shophouse – below main roof level

3 storey shophouse – 3rd storey floor level
Openable covering (full opening and automatic type) at any level

Airwell
Same usage for all floors
Fixed covering
2 storey shophouse – below main roof level


URA permits only one side of the airwell to be enclosed.

Airwell

Different usage for all floors
Fixed covering
2 storey shophouse – 2nd storey floor level

Airwell
Different usage for all floors
Fixed covering


Airwell
Fig•C12
Building Capacity Enhancing Capabilities64• Globally

Airwell

5 Amalgamation of
shophouse units
Amalgamation of shophouse units

Amalgamation of
shophouse units
Max 2 units or 2 floors of same usage under one occupier per compartment
Multiple number of units
>1,900 m2 (about 8 shophouse units)
sprinkler system or RC floors
Amalgamation of
shophouse units
69
Amalgamation of
shophouse units
if sectionalised into 2 units per compartment, automatic fire alarm system is required.
Full protection to timber floors – min 1 hr fire rating
Addition of attic < 50 m2 per compartment
If usage is for public resort, restaurant, association etc, there shall be protected 2 staircases per floor.
Full protection to staircase even to 2 storey shophouse units.
Protection of Timber floor
Building Capacity
Fig•C16
Retention of timber floor in main building to be conserved with new rear extension of RC floors
To be treated as two buildings, each having its own means of escape

Addition of attic/compartment
Fig C17
Addition of attic < 50 m2 per compartment

No. of exit staircase
If usage is for public resort, restaurant, association etc, there shall be protected 2 staircases per floor.
Protection
to staircase
Fig C19
Full protection to staircase even to 2 storey shophouse units.

6 Means of escape
Means of escape
Means of escape
One-way Travel
Fig C20
One way travel shall not exceed 13m.

Means of escape - One-way Travel
Back to back units – back flow into 2nd storey is acceptable or protected lobby is created at shop entrance to reduce the travel distance.
Means of escape
Back to back units – back flow into 2nd storey is acceptable or protected lobby is created at shop entrance to reduce the travel distance.
Means of escape
One-way travel (Backflow) via 2nd storey
Fig C22 Fig C23
One way travel shall not exceed 13m

Means of escape
One-way Travel
Fig C24
One way travel shall not exceed 13m

Means of escape
Discharge of protected staircase should be directly into 5 footway/backlane or through passageway/protected lobby
Discharge
of
protected
staircase
Fig C25
Means of escape
If attic is compartmented from lower floor the main protected staircase should be extended to serve this floor.
Extension of protected dstaircase
7 Alarm system
Alarm system
Manual alarm system
< 3 storey and not having an amalgamation of more than 2 shophouse units
Manual Fire Alarm System
Manual alarm system
< 3 storey and not having an amalgamation of more than 2 shophouse units
Automatic alarm system
> 3 storey and having an amalgamation of more than 2 units

Automatic Fire Alarm System
Automatic alarm system
> 3 storey and having an amalgamation of more than 2 units

Alarm bell
Alarm bell shall be extended to common area of upper residential floor.

8 Covering
of
rear courtyard
f. Covering of rear courtyard

Covering of rear courtyard
Fig•C29
Building Capacity Enhancing Capabilities93• Globally
Protection of staircase at rear courtyard

Covering of rear courtyard
Building Capacity
Fig•C30
Escape route through rear courtyard is to be made protected.

9 Direction
of
door swing
g. Retention of timber floor in main building to be conserved with new rear extension of RC floors
To be treated as two buildings, each having its own means of escape.

Direction of exit door swing
Fig C31
Towards exit staircase

Swing of exit door
Towards exit staircase

10 Electrical/Water/TAS
meters, Telecoms Trunking
and Hosereel & pipes
Electrical/Water/TAS meters, Telecoms Trunking and Hosereel & pipes

Provision of Services
Explain the provision of such services

Location of HRs etc
Fig C33 Fig C34
Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities

100
• Globally
Location of HR = 36m coverage

Location
of HRs
etc
Fig C35
101
• Globally

Location
of HRs
etc
Fig C36
102
• Globally

11 Retention of timber floor
in main building to be
conserved with new rear
extension of RC floors

103
• Globally
Retention of timber floor in main building to be conserved with new rear extension of RC floors
To be treated as two buildings, each having its own means of escape.

Old/New Buildings

104
• Globally
If treated as one building, all floors area to be in RC, subject to compliance with travel distance.
Min 4 m separation between airwells.
Old/New Buildings

105
• Globally
Old/New Buildings

106
• Globally
(D) Fire Safety requirements
which are often not properly or
fully complied with or overlooked

107
• Globally
Fire requirements which are often not properly or fully complied with or overlooked ( 60 mins)
108
• Globally
Very often, QP has forgotten or overlooked the following fire safety requirements:
a. Protection of staircase shaft
Underside of staircase, floor and ceiling over staircase shaft are often not indicated as 1 hr fire rated.
Protection of Staircase Shaft

109
• Globally
Very often, QP has forgotten or overlooked the following fire safety requirements:
a. Protection of staircase shaft
Underside of staircase, floor and ceiling over staircase shaft are often not indicated as 1 hr fire rated.
Kitchen
1 hr fire compartment, ½ hr fire door and fire door to dumbwaiter/servery hatch. Exit door is to outward swinging. Provision of fire extinguisher
Kitchen
Kitchen
1 hr fire compartment, ½ hr fire door and fire door to dumbwaiter/servery hatch. Exit door is to outward swinging. Provision of fire extinguisher
Timber staircase
Timber staircase shall be pressure impregnated with flame retardant chemicals. The period of fire resistance rating eg. ½ hr should not be given.
Timber
Staircase
Fig D3
Timber staircase
Timber staircase shall be pressure impregnated with flame retardant chemicals. The period of fire resistance rating eg. ½ hr should not be given.
Lining to underside of timber floor
Section plan should indicate clearly the provision of lining to the underside of timber floor to
achieve ½ hr or 1 hr fire rating.
Section plan should indicate clearly the provision of lining to the underside of timber floor to
achieve ½ hr or 1 hr fire rating.
Annotation on plan
- clear and concise

there should be consistency between floor and section plan
number of persons provided with means of escape
type of fire alarm system.
Annotation
on
plan
Fig D5
Annotation on plan
- clear and concise

Annotation on plan
Fig D6
Annotation on plan
- clear and concise

Examples of incorrect annotations
1 hr fire rated timber floor

timber floor to be lined with 1 hr fire rated board
timber staircase shall be impregnated with 1 hr fire chemical
timber staircase shall be impregnated with flame retardant chemical to achieve ½ hr fire rating
non-combustible dry partition.
120
• Globally
Examples of correct annotations
underside of timber floor shall be lined with non-combustible boards to achieve 1 hr fire resistance rating
timber staircase shall be pressure impregnated with flame retardant chemical.
Underside of timber staircase shall be lined with non-combustible boards to achieve 1 hr fire resistance rating
Dry partition shall be constructed of non-combustible frame lined with non-combustible boards on both sides.
121
• Globally
Section should tally with floor plan
Very often amendments were made to floor plan without correspondingly amending section plan.
Section to tally
with floor plan
Fig D5

122
• Globally
Section to tally with floor plan

123
• Globally
124
• Globally
i. Travel distance
one way travel to attic shall not exceed 13m

escape should not be going through an occupied space
Travel Distance

125
• Globally
i. Travel distance

Travel Distance
Fig D8

126
• Globally
i. Travel distance

127
• Globally
Services within fire rated floor should be avoided
electrical/air-con duct/light fittings

air plenum
Services
within ceiling
space
Fig D9

128
• Globally
Services within fire rated floor should be avoided
electrical/air-con duct/light fittings

air plenum
Swing of door
Fig D10
129
• Globally
Swing of door
Causing obstruction to escape route inside the staircase.

130
• Globally
Provision of hosereel
hosereel should be sited near exit door

inside staircase at upper storey if there is no common area
Siting of HR
Fig D11

131
• Globally
Provision of hosereel
hosereel should be sited near exit door

inside staircase at upper storey if there is no common area
132
• Globally
Construction of drywall partitions
Timber frame/studs should be avoided and non-combustible materials should be used.

Dry partition
Fig D12
133
• Globally
Construction of drywall partitions
Timber frame/studs should be avoided and non-combustible materials should be used.

134
• Globally
Combustible finishes
Protected escape route and staircase shall be devoid of combustible finishes, including provision of carpet to floor and staircase, except timber handrails.
135
• Globally
Dimensions of staircase and exit door/passageway
Clear width of staircase and exit door/passageway should be clearly indicated

Demensions of
Staircase & exit
door/passageway
Fig D13
136
• Globally
Dimensions of staircase and exit door/passageway
Clear width of staircase and exit door/passageway should be clearly indicated

Fig D14

137
• Globally
Staircase and its escape route should be in protected shaft
Staircase serving more than 2 storey should be contained in a single protected shaft.
138
• Globally
Removal of protected enclosure to staircase
Under addition/alteration submission, protection to staircase is being adjusted/omitted.


139
• Globally
Under addition/alteration submission, protection to staircase is being adjusted/omitted.

140
• Globally
Raised floor
The provision of raised floor should be discouraged as it would increase the potential hazard of hidden fire.
Raised floor

141
• Globally
Raised floor
The provision of raised floor should be discouraged as it would increase the potential hazard of hidden fire.
142
• Globally
s. Discharge of staircase
Very often because of URA’s control on shop front, staircase serving upper storey were made to discharge into occupied area at
1 storey instead of through a protected lobby leading to the five-
st footway. Alternatively, staircases can be redesigned to
discharge into the backlane.
Discharge
of
Staircase
Fig D17

143
• Globally
s. Discharge of staircase
Very often because of URA’s control on shop front, staircase serving upper storey were made to discharge into occupied area at
1 storey instead of through a protected lobby leading to the five-
st footway. Alternatively, staircases can be redesigned to
discharge into the backlane.
(E) Minimum requirements for
proposal involving boarding
house/ guesthouse/ motel/ hotel
and the like

144
• Globally
Unlike normal shophouses, the fire safety requirement of boarding houses, guesthouses, motel/hotel etc are different. The following are the guidelines:
145
• Globally
Minimum 2 protected staircases to be provided.

Full protection to timber floors to achieve 1 hr fire rating
Max 2 shophouse units per compartment
146
• Globally
An automatic fire alarm system is to be provided to cover the whole proposal

Internal rooms without openings for natural ventilation should be provided with smoke venting /relief system.
Internal corridor should be pressurised if natural cross ventilation cannot be provided.
147
• Globally
If internal corridor is pressurised, then the staircases are required to be pressurised, to achieve a higher pressure than the corridor
Note: standby generator may be required.
Hotel proposal
Fig E1

148
• Globally
If internal corridor is pressurised, then the staircases are required to be pressurised, to achieve a higher pressure than the corridor
Note: standby generator may be required.
(F) Some Fire Safety
Considerations for Shophouses
Under Conservation

149
• Globally
It is FSSB’s policy to impose upon building owners to upgrade all existing buildings to comply fully with the current fire safety requirement. However, due to the
need to preserve old buildings which has historical value and buildings which are gazetted as national heritage, there is a need to allow the existing old buildings to
deviate from the current fire safety requirements. Nevertheless, additional fire safety measures are imposed to ensure that the safety of occupants in these buildings is
not jeopardised during fire emergency.
Some Fire Safety Considerations
for Shophouses Under
Conservation:

150
• Globally
Some fire safety considerations

Shophouses with rear multi-storey extension
Fig F1

151
• Globally
Some fire safety considerations

152
• Globally
Integration of shophouses with new development

Fig F2

153
• Globally

154
• Globally
Concealed spaces
155
• Globally
Concealed spaces
156
• Globally
Concealed spaces
Concealed
spaces
Fig F3

157
• Globally
Concealed spaces
158
• Globally
Requirements for boarding houses / hotels

159
• Globally

Boarding Houses/Hotels
Fig F4

160
• Globally

161
• Globally
Protection of timber floors / staircases

162
• Globally

Fig F5

163
• Globally

164
• Globally
Requirements for lift devices

165
• Globally
166
• Globally

Introduction of Lifts
Fig. F6

167
• Globally

Fig. F6A

168
• Globally

Fig. F6B

169
• Globally

170
• Globally
Addition of attic criteria

171
• Globally

Fig. F7 Addition of Attic

172
• Globally

Addition of Attic Fig. F7A

173
• Globally

Addition of Attic Fig. F7B

174
• Globally

175
• Globally
Requirements for interior finishes

176
• Globally

INTERIOR FINISH
Fig. F8
177
• Globally

DETAILS
OF
PARTITION

178
• Globally
Details of partitioning
CLASSIFICATION OF SURFACES OF WALLS AND CEILING RELATING TO FLAME SPREAD
TABLE
3.13A

179
• Globally
Details of partitioning
Exception
3.13.6
Wall and ceiling finishes in the form of
thin sheets of not more than 0.8 mm
thickness mounted on non-combustible
substrate may not be subject to the
requirements of spread of flame
provisions provided that this exception
shall not apply to smoke-stop lobbies,
exit staircases and exit passageways.
180
• Globally
Exceptions given for such finishes to walls and ceilings

181
• Globally
Exceptions given for such finishes to walls and ceilings

Hotel proposal
Fig F9
182
• Globally
Hotel proposal
(G) Preliminary
Consultation with
FSSD

183
• Globally
Seek consultation with FSSB

Consultation

184
• Globally
Seek consultation with FSSB

(H) Conclusion

185
• Globally
Conclude lesson
Conclusion

186
• Globally
Conclude lesson
Building Material
Building material
SCOPE
• Introduction
• Product Listing Scheme
• List of controlled building materials
• Fire test standards
• Fire safety requirements for building
material
• Conclusion
Introduction
Building Materials
- Fire Safety materials, construction or structural

assemblies, installation, equipment and
components
- Eg. fire doors, fire extinguishers, fire rated

partition, fire rated duct, fire damper, etc
Introduction of topic
Prior to 1999
- FSSD approved building material
- Supplier applies to FSSD
- Application form
- Test report/assessment report
- test standard
- specifications/preparations of material
- detailed procedure of conducting the
test
- observations during fire test
- test result
- FSSD issued no objection letter

- valid for 10 year
- Supplier to ensure that the building material

conform to the specification indicated in the report
- No inspection/random check by FSSD
Things prior to 1999

Test report
From 1999
- Implemented the Product Listing Scheme
WHAT’S PRODUCT LISTING SCHEME ?

A process of certifying the conformity to
performance of fire safety materials and
equipment by a certification body
All controlled fire safety materials and

equipment shall be listed under PSB’s
Product Listing Scheme (PLS)
Product Listing scheme

Product Eg. Fire door
Tested by a laboratory Eg PSB Corp

recognised by PSB SS 332
Apply to PSB to
list the product
no
Meet PSB PSB rejects
criteria ? the application
List the product yes PSB carry out

in the directory Surveillance test
Flowchart for PSB

Listing
- Products under PLS will be listed in a directory

and the internet (www.psbtest.com)
- Directory will be updated yearly & internet weekly
- Include information on applicant, country of origin,

range of products, model number and scope of listing
Listing under PLS

OBJECTIVES OF PSB’S PLS
- The design, construction and installation of fire
safety materials and equipment are
consistent in quality with the prototype.
- To facilitate more choices for selection of fire

safety products
- PSB provides independent testing and

certification of products through the Product
Listing Scheme (PLS)
- 3rd party product quality assurance scheme
Objectives of PSB
OBJECTIVES OF PSB’S PLS
- This scheme is used by purchasers, manufacturers

and regulatory authorities to assess product
conformity to safety, reliability and
performance specifications.
- These tests are conducted to national and

international standards or relevant specifications.
Objectives of PSB
Product Listing Scheme
- FSSD worked together with PSB to implement the
PLS as the vehicle of building products approval from the fire
safety perspective.
- FSSD's new role in this approval process would be one

of setting requirements and enforcement.
- Product control, such as type testing, batch testing,

factory audit, market and factory surveillance,
labelling, listing and publishing of listing directories
would be carried out by PSB under the PSB Product
Listing Scheme.
Objectives of PSB
- With the implementation of the PLS, qualified persons
(QPs) should select fire safety products that are listed
under PLS.
- Products shall be constructed in accordance with the

tested specimen. Materials used shall be identical with
the test construction.
- Usage of the listed products need to comply with

FSSD's Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in
Buildings.
Objectives of PSB
- There shall be no modification to the prototype

design.
- If modification is unavoidable due to site
construction constraint or other reasons,
satisfactory test/assessment report shall be
submitted to PSB for further consideration.
Product listing scheme

Benefits of PLS for QPs/Inspectors
- Quick and easy identification of products which

comply with standards
- Can always refer to PSB for enquiry or information

relating to the product certified
- Can check the PLS listing for certified products
Benefits of PLS for QPs/Inspectors

Type of Classifications
Class 1A - With Factory Surveillance
- This classification is identified with the PSB TEST

Mark, which are to be printed/embossed/labelled
by the applicant.
- These products are subjected to factory surveillance

at regular intervals and if necessary, market
surveillance.
Type of Classifications
Class 1A - With Factory Surveillance
Class 1B - With Batch Inspection:
- Products listed under Class 1B are labelled with

PSB TEST Mark, issued according to the batch size
and on condition that the batch has passed PSB 's
batch testing/inspection.
Class 2 - With Market Surveillance:
- Products listed under Class 2 are not entitled to use

the PSB Mark. However, they will be subjected to
product review/market surveillance.
Class 1B and 2 with batch inspection and market surveillance

Type of Classification
Class 1A Class 1B Class 2
Flowchart of different classes of classification

Building Materials
listed under the
Product Listing
Scheme
Buildings materials under PLS

List of products under Class 1A and 1B







Preferred Test
Standards
Adopt Singapore Standards, wherever
available, i.e. SS 332 (Fire-rated doors), SS
333 (Fire damper), SS 489 (Fire-rated
roller shutter), etc
Singapore standards are formulated for

the best interest of local building industry
Preferred test standards

The Changes
- As at 24 Mar 2006, PSB and its group of companies
have been wholly acquired by TUV SUD of Germany
PSB ---> TUV SUD PSB Corp
- Review of scheme
Changes from PSB to TUV SUD PSB Corp

CHANGES TO PSB’S PLS
Open to all qualified

certification bodies
Changes to PSB PLS

Certification of regulated fire safety products/ materials

Fire Safety Guidelines (FSG)







WHY SAC
- The national body to accredit
the credibility and reliability
of testing laboratories,
certification scheme,
etc.
- Ensure transparency in the

process
Why SAC
Singapore Accreditation
Council
Certification
bodies accredited
by SAC
Certification Certification Certification

body body body
SAC accreditation council

Roles and Responsibilities
of Certification Body
Certification body shall conduct:
- Batch checking and/or testing, or
- Surveillance check on factory facilities and product’s

quality, including random test of product collected
from site
Appoint agent to follow up on queries/complaints

of sub-standard products (overseas)
ACCIDENTAL
FIRE CAUSES
Learning Objectives
• Explain the conditions needed to start a fire ?
• Define the two types of fire causes ?
• List the most common major accidental

fire causes ?
ELEMENTS OF A FIRE CAUSE
Three elements or factors necessary
Heat sources
Heat
Fuel
An “Event” which brings together

the heat source and the fuel Fuel
Examples of the three elements
Heat sources (four sources)
1 Chemical sources
Heat of combustion - heat released during oxidation.
Spontaneous heating - increase in temperature which

does not draw heat from the surrounding.
Heat of decomposition - decomposition of an organic
substance.
Heat of solution - when a substance is dissolved in liquid.
2 Electrical Heat Energy

Resistance heating - by the flow of electrons through a
conductor that impedes the flow.
Induction heating - by passing electrons through the

heated object.
Arcing - interrupting the flow of electrons by separating

the conductors; e. g. a switch.
Static electricity
Stand lamp Overheated wires
base
Foam Stand lamp

mattress base
Fire originated from overheated wiring under the stand lamp
3 Mechanical Heat Energy

Friction heat - direct mechanical contact between moving
parts; eg. rubbing.
Friction sparks - eg. grinding wheels.
Heat of compression - when gas is compressed, the

molecules are forced closer together and heat is
produced; e. g. filing SCBA air tank.
4 Nuclear heat energy

Fuel
First material ignited (the initial fuel)
Part of the malfunction device/item too close to heat source
Event
The sequence of event that bring together the heat source and fuel.
To establish the fire cause.

TYPES OF FIRE CAUSES
Accidental
an occurrence unexpectedly or by chance.
fire cause does not involve any deliberate

human act to ignite or spread the fire.
TYPES OF FIRE CAUSES
Incendiary
an act of deliberate or intentional burning
deliberately set under circumstances in which the

individual knows that the fire should not be set.
MAJOR
ACCIDENTAL FIRE CAUSES
The following major accidental fire causes will be discussed:

1. Heating equipment
2. Cooking equipment
3. Smoking and related fires
4. Energized electrical equipment
5. Flammable/combustible liquids
6. Open flames and sparks
MAJOR
7. Spontaneous heating leading to ignition

8. Wildland fires
9. Low temperature ignition and accidental fires
10. Other accidental fire causes

MAJOR
HEATING EQUIPMENT
Defective, misused or overheated equipment
Combustible materials stored too close to/in

contact with heating equipment
MAJOR ACCIDENTAL FIRE CAUSES
HEATING EQUIPMENT
Heating
Elements
Acid Bath
Containers
Fire originated from an

Overheated heating elements
HEATING EQUIPMENT
A. Oil and gas burning equipment
signs of malfunction and improper adjustment
signs of fuel leakage in the area of the unit.
internal safety thermostats
valves and control may malfunction for

fuel to escape
HEATING EQUIPMENT
B. Portable electrical heating equipment
place too near combustibles, operated by

extension cords, or being tipped over.
HEATING EQUIPMENT
C. Coal, wood or other solid fuel heating systems

installation too close to combustible materials
COOKING EQUIPMENT
too close to combustible materials
poor housekeeping
unattended cooking
Unattended cooking in the kitchen

COOKING EQUIPMENT
D. Improper disposal of hot ashes and coals

SMOKING AND RELATED FIRES
A. Heat generated by burning cigarettes varies greatly
1. 288 deg.c measured on outside surface of glowing ash
2. 732 deg.c measured in the centre of glowing ash
3. Temperature even higher than those mentioned

have been estimated/recorded by various
researchers
CIGARETTE
Waste Paper Bin
B. Cigarettes and the ignition of combustibles
it must be insulated
allow the build up of heat from the

glowing ash
increase the surface contact with

the heat source
the greater the insulating effect

the greater the chance a fire will
occur.
Discarded items CIGARETTE
Fire caused by dropped light

C. Over-used as fire cause by fire investigators for rubbish, lallang

fires
D. Smoldering furniture (sofa, bed, chair, etc.) usually requires long

period of time to produce open burning
tests shown can be as early as 20 minutes
and as late as 6 to 8 hours
typical time is from to 1 – 11/2 hours
CIGARETTE
E. Smoldering fires inside padded furniture may produce

760 deg.C to 871 deg.C
F. Indicators of cigarette-caused fires in furniture
large quantities of heavy smoke
heavy smoke stain on walls, ceiling, windows, and all

other contents
heavy floor damage
CIGARETTE
Cigarette Butts
Found Here
Smoking related fire

ENERGISED ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
The Distributing Panel

a Examine fuses for evidence of shorting or overloading
b inspect the conditions inside the panel box

c examine the distributing panel for evidence of previous
electrical system problems
d examine the panel for indication of efforts to bypass the
overcurrent protection devices
Fuse - a weak link in the circuit designed to self-destruct
when excess current melt fusible element
Breakers - a mechanical device that opens a circuit on a

predetermined overcurrent
Undamaged Building Area

a check for unsafe electrical work
b look for loose connections or octopus wiring
Wiring at Point of Fire Origin

Three basic electrical fire ignition mechanism are:
a arcs and sparks
b overheated connection
c overheated wires
Damaged
Wire
Dried
Leaves
Fire originated from the wiring of neon sign at roof top

Head
Rest Double Bed
Fire originated from a mini stand fan at bed headrest
ENERGISED
ELECTRICAL
EQUIPMENT
Fluorescent
Light Tube
Starter
The electric starter of the fluorescent lighting fixture was overheated
ENERGISED
ELECTRICAL
EQUIPMENT
Signs of electrical arcing

Signs of power surge
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
A. Improper storage and handling of flammable and combustible

liquids
residential occupancies - kitchen, utility rooms etc
commercial and industrial occupancies - offices,

work areas etc.
B. Improper selection and use of storage containers
1. Light-weight plastic containers
become brittle, cracks and leaks
easily punctured by sharp objects
break upon impact if dropped
2. Light-weight metal containers
rust or deteriorate along seams
leaks
Electric
switch
Workshop
entrance
Fire originated from gas filled room

onboard a vessel
Floor
Hole board
C. Improper use of flammable liquids
most misused product

is gasoline for cleaning
result in vapour of product

being spread over wide area
ADHESIVE
HEATING
TORCH
Flammable vapour from adhesive

Ignited by naked flame
D. Flammable liquids and ignition sources
flash fire or explosion depending

on quantity of vapour
rapid flame spread, low burns and

charring
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE
LIQUIDS
Fire caused by leaking LP gas

ignited by sparks from electric wiring
Fire caused by flammable vapour and sparks

resulted from the impact of collision
Ruptured
Petrol Tank
OPEN FLAMES AND SPARKS AS FIRE CAUSES
A. Welding and cutting operations
When welding or cutting objects are connected

to or pass through combustible construction,
or by direct flame contact
Soldering of pipes lead to ignition of

nearby combustible materials
Sparks produced by grinding operations

OPEN FLAMES AND SPARKS AS FIRE CAUSES
B. Friction and sparks from machinery
machinery improperly lubricated

ignition of nearby combustible by
convection or conduction
localise damage to the machine
point of fire origin near or inside the
suspected equipment
SPONTANEOUS HEATING LEADING TO IGNITION
A. Sometime used as catch-all by investigators
B. Many organic materials and some metals are subject to

oxidation and/or fermentation which results in
spontaneous heating
C. Spontaneous heating is produced in three ways:

1. chemical action
2. fermentation; or
3. Microbial thermogenesis (oxidation)
Fire involved Nitrocellulos compound in drums

D. Fermentation
1. Moisture is a prime factor.
i. e. hay and grasses storage while wet
2. Spontaneous heating may be accelerated by outside heat
sources.
i. e. sunshine, storage near steam pipe etc
3. Available air important to spontaneous heating
i.e. rag soaked in linseed oil if wadded
at the bottom of a trash can.
4. Mass of material important
5. Spontaneous heating may occur for hours, days, or months
prior to reaching ignition temperature.
D. Fermentation
6. Indicators of fires caused by spontaneous heating
charring inside the mass, or more than one

area of charring
common materials susceptible to spontaneous

heating are:
linseed oil, charcoal, fish meal, wool waste,

and foam rubber
DANGEROUS VEGETATION (LALLANG/BUSH) FIRES
• Improperly discarded cigarettes or other forms of burning,

smoking materials can provide an ignition source.
• Sunlight can be a fire cause, but special conditions are required.

It is possible for magnifying glasses and mirrors to concentrate
rays of sunlight.
• Burning carbon particles may be thrown from the exhaust

system of vehicles as a cause of wildland fires.
• Ember from controlled burning of rubbish, incense papers etc

is also a common fire cause.
LOW-TEMPERATURE IGNITION
When wood or similar materials are subjected to temperature

as low as 121 C for an extended period of time, pyrophoric
carbon is formed. In this process, the character of the materials
is changed. The exposed material become almost pure carbon
and is subject to spontaneous heating.
The time required for such ignition to occur depends the level
of heat exposure, the duration of the exposure, the mass / density
of the material, and ventilation.
The timeframe may be several weeks , months or years.

LOW-TEMPERATURE IGNITION
Low-temperature ignition may develop in areas where

combustibles are in contact with or very near light bulbs,
steam pipes, or other low-temperature, heat producing appliances.
466 293
214
280
100 460
watt
bulb
191
271
194
171
162
OTHER ACCIDENTAL FIRE CAUSES
• Animals also can be involved in a fire cause. They may

damage equipment, knocked over heating equipment etc.
• Spontaneous heating requires special conditions.

For example, the contamination of chemicals may produce
sufficient heat to cause the ignition of nearby combustible
materials at rubbish dump.
• Lightning as a cause.
THANK YOU

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MECHANICAL

• BASEMENT CARPARK SMOKE CONTROL

• BASEMENT SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

• ROOMS INVOLVING USE OF

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

supply air shall be :

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

supply air shall be :

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Pressurisation level (cont’d)

• Force required to open any door against

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

• For building comprising > 4 basement

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

• Even distribution of supply air injection pts.

• Pressurisation level shall be restored ASAP

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

• Supply air shall be drawn directly from

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

f. for pressurisation system of exit staircase:

design calculation shall be in order to justify fan capacities;

If pressurisation is required, then :

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

• Supply air shall be drawn directly from

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

• ACMV system shall be independent

• Supply air shall be drawn directly from

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

system shall consist of supply and exhaust mode;

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

system shall consist of supply and exhaust mode;

Building Capacity • Enhancing Capabilities • Globally

system shall consist of supply and exhaust mode;