Fire safety is a major consideration in every aspect of building and architectural design, but it is especially important in Asia where there is a growing need for strict fire safety regulations due to rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development. Asia has embraced fire resistance standards in recent years to lessen the severe effects of fire incidents, such as fatalities, property damage and financial losses. Let us take a much simpler look at the seemingly complex world of fire resistance ratings and standards in Asia, along with how they are implemented in different nations and how fire rated glass improves building safety.
What is fire resistance rating
Fire resistance ratings, often referred to as fire ratings, are a standardised system used to measure and classify the fire resistance of building materials, components, and assemblies. These ratings assess the ability of a particular element to withstand fire and contribute to the overall fire safety of a building.
At the heart of these standards are three core principles: stability, integrity and insulation.
1. Stability
The ability of a building component to sustain its load-bearing capacity and structural integrity during a fire is referred to as stability. It assesses a structural element’s capacity to withstand collapse and continue supporting the weights for which it was intended, such as a wall or a floor. An increased stability rating denotes a stronger resistance to fire’s effects without experiencing structural failure.
2. Integrity
Integrity evaluates an element’s ability to keep hot gases and flames from moving from one side of the element to the other, keeping smoke and fire contained inside designated spaces or compartments. It assesses how well a barrier preserves its integrity, stops a fire from spreading and safeguards surrounding areas. A higher integrity rating denotes a stronger barrier against hot gases and flames.
3. Insulation
The ability of a component to reduce heat transfer from the fire-exposed side to the unexposed side is measured in terms of insulation. It gauges how well a substance or assembly blocks the transfer of thermal energy, shielding the side not exposed to fire from its damaging effects. Additionally, insulation is essential to preserving the component’s structural integrity. A higher insulation rating denotes a more robust resistance to heat transfer.
Fire resistance ratings and standards in different Asian countries
Each country holds its unique approach to fire safety. Numerous factors, including the nation’s geographic, cultural, and infrastructure context as well as its past experiences with fire incidents, have shaped these unique strategies. Let’s explore how different Asian countries approach fire safety through their fire resistance standards.
Country | Minimum Fire Resistance Ratings | |||
Doors | Windows | Walls | Partitions | |
Malaysia | 1 hr | 1 hr | 2 hrs | 1 hr |
Myanmar | 30 mins | No provision | 1 hr | No provision |
Philippines | 3 hrs | 1 hr | 1 hr | 2 hrs |
Singapore | 1-2 hrs | 30 mins | 1 hr | 1 hr |
Vietnam | 40 mins | 40 mins | No provision | No provision |
Thailand | 1 hr | shall not be less than the fire rating of the walls where they are fixed. | 1-3 hours depending on the type | 2-4 hrs depending on the construction type |
Taiwan | 1 hr | 1 hr | 1 hr | 1 hr |
Hong Kong | 1-2 hours depending on the construction type | 1-2 hours depending on the construction type | 1-2 hours depending on the construction type | 1-2 hours depending on the construction type |
China | 30 mins – 1.5 hours | 30 mins – 1.5 hours | 30 mins – 2 hours | 30 mins – 2 hours |
Japan | 30 min to 2 hours (varies by occupancy) | Generally not required, may match walls | 1-2 hours (varies by story and type) | 1-2 hours (varies by story and type) |
It’s important to keep in mind that these are only general recommendations, and that precise fire resistance specifications may change based on the kinds of buildings, the occupancy classifications and the rules established by the fire and safety authorities in each country. To guarantee compliance with the minimum fire resistance ratings for your particular projects, you should consult with the appropriate authorities and refer to your country’s Fire Code.
The role of fire rated glass
Fire rated glass is an important material in building design as it improves both safety and aesthetics. Transparency, visibility, and fire protection are all provided by this material, which blends the qualities of conventional glass with materials resistant to fire. Fire rated glass has the following important features:
Fire resistance
Fire rated glass is designed to withstand exposure to fire for a predetermined amount of time while maintaining its structural integrity and obstructing the flow of hot gases and flames. It serves as a barrier, slowing the spread of the fire and giving firefighters and evacuation time, which is important.
Safety and visibility
Fire rated glass provides visibility which helps occupants and first responders to evaluate the situation. It offers a clear line of sight, enabling prompt action and quick decision-making. It also serves as a safe barrier, shielding people from the damaging effects of smoke and flames while still providing a rapid and secure escape route.
Aesthetics and design integration
Fire rated glass gives designers and architects the freedom to include fire safety features without sacrificing aesthetics. It can be tailored to different sizes, shapes and levels of transparency in order to satisfy particular architectural requirements. This guarantees that fire safety precautions blend in perfectly with the building’s overall architecture.
Code compliance and regulatory standards
Fire rated glass is created and tested in accordance with rigorous building codes and industry standards. It is put through an intense testing procedure to make sure it satisfies fire resistance ratings that are specified by reputable standards bodies. Building owners and other stakeholders can show that they are in compliance with fire safety laws and give residents a safer environment by installing fire rated glass.
Prioritising safety with fire resistance standards and fire rated glass
Fire resistance standards are a cornerstone of building safety across Asia. They ensure that buildings are designed and constructed to withstand fires, protecting people and property. Fire rated glass is one of the many innovations helping to meet these standards, offering a blend of functionality and safety.
As we continue to build and innovate, it is important to understand and adhere to these standards. After all, when it comes to fire safety, every measure matters, and every second counts.
Let’s continue to prioritise safety in our buildings. Stay informed, stay compliant, and most importantly, stay safe. For more information on fire resistance standards and how you can implement them in your projects, feel free to reach out to us. Your safety is our priority.
Sources:
- Malaysia – Uniform Building By-Laws 1984
- Myanmar – Myanmar Fire Safety Code (2020)
- Philippines – Fire Code of the Philippines
- Singapore – Singapore Civil Defence Force
- Vietnam – Vietnam National Standard
- Taiwan – Standard for Installation of Fire Safety Devices based on Use and Occupancy
- Hong Kong – Code of Practice for Fire Safety in Buildings 2011 (June 2023 Edition)
- China – GB 50016-2014