Fire Resistance of Multistorey Timber Buildings

Abstract

Tall timber buildings are becoming popular around the world. This paper discusses options for setting the level of fire resistance in multistorey timber buildings. Fire resistance of timber structures involves a paradox, because it is well known that heavy timber construction has excellent fire resistance in severe fires, but it is also well known that burning of wood has contributed to severe damage and loss of life in some fires. This paradox often leads to contradictory statements on fire safety in timber buildings. This paper summarises recent international reports and proposes a consistent method of deciding which parts of multistorey timber buildings need additional fire protection.