Evolution of Performance-Based Codes and Fire Safety Design Methods.
Evolution of Performance-Based Codes and Fire Safety
Design Methods.
(5231 K)
Meacham, B. J.
NIST GCR 98-761; 65 p. November 1998.
Sponsor:
National Institute of Standards and Technology,
Gaithersburg, MD
Available from:
CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM: Website - http://www.bfrl.gov
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Keywords:
building codes; computer models; fire codes; fire
protection engineering; fire safety; fire safety
evaluation system; histories; International Standards
Org.; life safety code; NFPA 101; performance based
codes; risk analysis
Abstract:
This document provides an overview of the evolution of
performance-based building codes and performance-based
fire safety analysis and design methods. It was
developed during the period of September 1995 through
August 1996 as part of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology, Building and Fire Research
Laboratory, Grant No. 60NANB5DO138: Assessment of the
Technological Requirements for the Realization of
Performance-Based Fire Safety Design in the United
States. Section 2 provides a chronological overview of
the evolution of performance-based codes and
performance-based fire safety analysis and design
methods from the 1970s through the present. Sections 3
through 5 then detail the efforts undertaken in both
code development and analysis and design method
development during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s
respectively. The summary provides a list of analysis
and design methods by type, and provides some thoughts
on where future effort might be beneficial. Although
sufficient detail is provided for the reader to gain an
understanding of the fundamental principles behind the
various codes, fire safety analysis methods, and fire
safety design methods in use or in development as of
July 1996, it is highly recommended that the referenced
documents be consulted for more detailed information.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899