Analysis of Problems of and Measures Against Fires Originating from Ceilings

Abstract

Five or six catastrophic fires occur in Korea each year. When catastrophic fires originate from a ceiling, they commonly result in many casualties. This study focused on six catastrophic fire cases that originated from the ceiling, which resulted in many casualties, and analyzed their characteristics and problems. According to this analysis, five measures were proposed. 1) When fires originate from a ceiling, an indoor hydrant should be used instead of an extinguisher. 2) The spread of fire and smoke to the upper floors should be blocked against vertical penetration using fireproof charging. 3) The use of combustible materials above the ceiling must be avoided. 4) Synthetic resin conduits, connections, and cable trays must be replaced with metal conduits, connections, and cable ducts to prevent fires caused by electrical factors. 5) Fire detectors must be installed if combustible materials are present in the space above the ceiling. Keywords: Ceiling Fire, Catastrophic Fire, Fire Case Analysis, Fire Investigation