Introduction Good day, everyone!

Today, I will guide you through the essential building safety systems
for a three-story commercial building, specifically focusing on sprinkler systems, elevators, and
ventilation, as outlined in the building’s floor plan. Let’s ensure we understand these systems
comprehensively to prioritize safety and compliance.

Ground Floor Safety Features

The ground floor plan includes parking areas, a snack bar, and access to fire exits. Here are the safety
highlights:

Sprinkler System

1. Sprinkler Placement:

o Pendent sprinklers are installed in open areas like the parking zone and the snack bar to
provide comprehensive coverage. These sprinklers are ceiling-mounted and release
water downward in a wide spray pattern, ideal for unobstructed spaces.

o Sidewall sprinklers are used in hallways to ensure efficient water distribution along
narrow spaces.

2. Control and Maintenance:

o A floor control valve (FCV) is located near the fire hose cabinet (FHC) in the hallway. This
valve manages water flow for this floor’s sprinkler network and is easily accessible for
inspection and emergency shutoff.

o All pipes, marked as 25Ø to 65Ø, are routed through protected shafts and secured with
hangers every 1.5 meters to prevent sagging or damage.

3. Fire Pumps:

o The fire pump (FP) room and jockey pump (JP) are located near the water tank to ensure
consistent water pressure throughout the sprinkler system.

o Pumps operate at set pressures: The main fire pump activates at 70 PSI and stops at 300
PSI, while the jockey pump maintains system pressure during non-emergency conditions.

Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers (Class ABC, UL/FM approved) are mounted at accessible points near exits and
critical areas like the snack bar. These extinguishers can handle a variety of fire types, including electrical
and flammable liquid fires.

Ventilation

• Smoke exhaust fans are installed in the parking area to remove vehicle fumes and ensure
visibility during emergencies. These fans automatically activate when smoke detectors sense
hazardous levels of smoke.
 • Fire-rated dampers are fitted within ductwork near elevator shafts to prevent the spread of
smoke and flames through ventilation systems.

Elevator Systems

• The elevator shaft is fire-rated, constructed with materials designed to resist fire and heat for
extended periods. An automatic recall system ensures elevators return to the ground floor
during emergencies, preventing use by occupants and prioritizing safety.

• Emergency power backups ensure elevators remain operational for firefighters if needed.

Second Floor Safety Features

The second floor primarily contains rooms and a central hallway.

Sprinkler System

1. Sprinkler Placement:

o Upright sprinklers cover areas with high ceilings, such as rooms and open corridors.
These sprinklers spray water upwards and are ideal for spaces with potential
obstructions below.

o Branch lines are CPVC pipes supported with hangers every 4 feet to ensure durability
and stability.

2. Control Valve:

o The floor’s control valve (FCV) connects to the 100Ø riser, which supplies water to all
sprinklers. This valve includes a tamper switch to detect unauthorized adjustments.

Fire Hose Cabinets

• Located strategically in hallways, the fire hose cabinets (FHCs) contain hoses and nozzles for
manual firefighting by trained personnel or responders. Clear labeling ensures easy
identification.

Ventilation

• Dedicated air circulation systems ensure fresh airflow and minimize smoke accumulation in case
of fire. These systems include sensors to detect air quality and smoke levels, triggering
automated responses.

• Exhaust ducts connect to the main ventilation system, with fire-rated seals at duct penetrations
to maintain compartmentalization.

Escape Routes

• Fire exits are clearly marked with illuminated signage and lead to ground-level egress points.
Each exit is equipped with panic bars for swift evacuation.
 • Stairwell enclosures are pressurized to keep smoke out, ensuring safe passage during
emergencies. Pressure levels are maintained by dedicated fans that activate automatically.

Third Floor Safety Features

The third floor includes additional rooms, hallways, and access to the roof deck.

Sprinkler System

1. Sprinkler Network:

o Similar to the second floor, upright and pendent sprinklers cover all rooms and common
areas. The design ensures complete coverage, minimizing fire spread risk.

o Pipes and braces are installed following the same spacing standards to ensure structural
integrity and reliable operation.

2. Water Supply:

o A dedicated 100Ø riser ensures adequate pressure, and the fire pump’s capacity of 300
gallons per minute (GPM) supports this level, allowing the system to handle multiple
sprinklers simultaneously.

Roof Deck Safety

• A drain riser (50Ø) directs water from sprinkler discharges during an emergency, preventing
water buildup on the roof deck.

• Fire department connections (FDCs) are positioned at accessible points to allow external water
supply during large-scale incidents, ensuring uninterrupted firefighting efforts.

Ventilation

• Roof-mounted exhaust fans assist in expelling heat and smoke, reducing risks during fire events.
These fans are integrated with the building’s alarm system to activate automatically when smoke
is detected.

System Compliance and Maintenance

1. Regulatory Standards:

o All systems comply with the Fire Code of the Philippines and NFPA standards, ensuring
adherence to globally recognized safety practices.

o Equipment is UL/FM approved and undergoes rigorous testing for the specified pressure
and flow requirements.

2. Inspection and Testing:

 o Conduct regular water flow tests for sprinklers to confirm functionality and proper
pressure levels.

o Check the operation of tamper switches on all valves to ensure unauthorized

adjustments are detected.

o Inspect and clean exhaust fans and fire dampers periodically to maintain efficient
operation and prevent blockages.

3. Coordination:

o Contractors must prepare shop drawings for review, ensuring proper integration of
sprinkler, ventilation, and fire pump systems. These drawings should align with the
building’s floor plan and safety requirements.

o All openings in fire-rated walls are sealed with UL/FM-approved firestop sealant to
prevent fire and smoke penetration.

Conclusion

By integrating these safety systems effectively, we create a secure and compliant environment for
building occupants. Each component—from sprinklers to ventilation and elevators—plays a vital role in
fire prevention and life safety.

Let’s stay committed to maintaining and inspecting these systems to uphold the highest safety standards.
Regular drills and safety training can further enhance readiness and ensure everyone knows how to
respond in case of an emergency.

Thank you for your time and attention!