Fire engineering & rational design

Engineering services (Rational fire design)

We assess occupancy, escape arrangements, compartmentation, fire resistance interfaces and fire service access as part of the building fire strategy. The design records the protection objectives and the requirements to be incorporated into the architectural, structural and building-services information.

For new developments, the assessment starts while the layout can still be adjusted. For existing buildings, we review available approvals and records against the current use and observed conditions. Alterations and changes of use are assessed against the revised requirements.

Scope of expertise

The appointment is defined around the facility, available information and required project outcomes. Relevant services can include:

• Fire strategy development and review of the proposed building use
• Rational fire design within the agreed professional appointment
• Escape, compartmentation and fire service access considerations
• Coordination of active and passive fire protection requirements
• Technical engagement with the professional team and relevant approval stakeholders
• Fire service access, firefighting facilities and external fire spread considerations
• Integration of passive protection, structural fire resistance and evacuation requirements
• Definition of authority submission information and approval interfaces

Design and deliverables

We establish the design brief, identify the applicable requirements and document the assumptions that influence the strategy. Options are considered with the architect and other disciplines so that the fire design can be incorporated into coordinated information. Changes to layout or use should then be assessed against that recorded basis.

SANS 10400 fire design appointments

The design basis records the applicable National Building Regulations, relevant parts of SANS 10400, including fire protection under Part T, and the assessment criteria agreed for the project. Drawings and reports set out the fire strategy and the requirements to be carried into the building design.

Bring the fire engineer into the discussion before layouts, escape routes and plant space are fixed. For an alteration or change of use, provide the approved plans and earlier fire reports alongside the proposed changes. Authority comments, design decisions and outstanding information can then be addressed against a clear record.

Our engineering brief guidance explains what to send at the start. The strategy is developed alongside passive fire protection, evacuation planning and the required active systems.

Fire plan preparation

We prepare SANS 10400-T fire plans to record the fire protection arrangements on coordinated drawings. Where a rational design is required, the drawings are developed with the supporting report and calculations so that the design information remains consistent.

Appointing a fire engineer anywhere in South Africa

FESOL accepts fire engineering appointments for projects in all nine provinces, including new developments, alterations, accommodation buildings, commercial premises and industrial facilities. Our offices are in Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha, with project coordination and site involvement arranged nationally.

Send the site location, intended building use, available drawings and programme. We will define the design scope, information requirements and site attendance with you and coordinate the fire engineering input with the professional team and relevant local authority.

Student accommodation and hotel projects are considered alongside the building layout, occupant needs and operating arrangements. For the full service area, see our national project coverage.

Project information

Share the site location, intended occupancy, current drawings, development stage and any existing fire approvals or reports. Identify changes of use, phased occupation and known constraints at the outset.

The scope, deliverables, site involvement and responsibilities are confirmed for each appointment.