Treasures gutted by fire. Fire safety design awareness as a consequence of historic building accidents and disasters

Abstract

Many of the emblematic buildings of historical importance that have been constructed throughout human history still survive today. However, a significant number has been destroyed by fire. Despite the impact this loss has on cultural heritage, important lessons can also be learnt, enhancing our understanding on how fires develop in historical structures and why they occur in the first place. A review of the existing fire design approaches, in conjunction with the heritage building values and fundamental conservation principles, initiates a dialogue in terms of acceptable interventions and fire protection solutions. The aim of this study is to provide contemporary scientists, conservation professionals and building owners with an insight of how building physics affect the fire performance of historic structures, highlight common risks following a thorough literature review and discuss the role of the fire and conservation engineer.