Numerical Study of the Factors Affecting Evacuation in Multi-Family House Fires

Abstract

In this study, a numerical analysis was conducted on the factors affecting evacuation when fires occur in multi-family houses. The parameters of fire size, growth rate, and location, as well as open or closed corridor-window conditions were considered based on empirical factors, and the results using the CFAST model were evaluated according to the life safety code for evacuation. In the fire scenario considered in this study, the concentration of toxic gases in the area in front of the entrance to the stairwell, which is an evacuation route for a multi-family house, did not exceed the life safety code. However, it was confirmed that the temperature and height of the hot gas layer did exceed the life safety code. The height of the hot gas layer exceeded the life safety code the fastest when the fire was far from the entrance to the stairwell, and the opening of the hallway windows had a significant effect on reducing the temperature in the hallway and maintaining a high smoke layer.