FIERAsystem: A Fire Risk Assessment Tool to Evaluate Fire Safety in Industrial Buildings and Large Spaces

Abstract

FIERAsystem is a computer model for evaluating fire protection systems in industrial buildings. The model has been developed as a tool to assist fire protection engineers, building officials, fire service personnel and researchers in performing fire safety engineering calculations, and can be used to conduct hazard and risk analyses, as well as to evaluate whether a selected design satisfies established fire safety objectives. While the model is primarily designed for use in warehouses and aircraft hangars, it can be modified for application to other industrial buildings. This paper describes the framework for FIERAsystem, along with its capabilities and flexibility. Individual models used to perform calculations are discussed, particularly those that calculate fire development and life hazard. A hazard analysis of an aircraft hangar is then described in detail, as an example of the types of calculations this model can perform. Methods used by the model to conduct risk assessments are also briefly described.