At Fire HQ we are proficient in a number of advanced computer modelling techniques to complement our fire engineering design process. For complex building evacuation arrangements this includes Pathfinder or STEPS, and for fire and smoke modelling includes Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) and Brisk. We also employ various calculation and deterministic models for radiation fire spread, sprinkler activation, etc as required. We work to continually advance our technical expertise in these areas and remain at the forefront of developments in these areas.
Fire evacuation schemes are required for most commercial buildings under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fire Safety, Evacuation Procedures, and Evacuation Schemes) Regulations 2018. These schemes are prepared at building occupation and there is often a disconnect between the requirements of the evacuation scheme and the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code determined at consent stage.
This disconnect in the timing of information and personnel involved can lead to real conflict where the fire engineering design requires a set of fire safety systems and procedures, and the evacuation scheme has differing or additional requirements which only become apparent when the building is completed. We are challenging this traditional approach which represents an unacceptable risk profile for our clients by developing the evacuation scheme during the design stage in concert with the building fire engineering design strategy. This achieves improved design, approval and risk outcomes for the project.
We are able to prepare fire protection design documentation of fire alarm, sprinkler, and hydrant systems to a design and build specification. This specification outlines the design and quality requirements of the systems to be met by the Contractor, and supported through the tender, shop drawing and install processes.
Engaging a fire engineer to provide passive firestopping design prior to tender is becoming increasingly sought after by clients as a way to achieve better cost certainty, improve coordination of trades and avoid costly rework. It is also often requested by the BCA as part of the building consent process.
We can provide a cost effective series of solutions which are supported by testing in compliance with the relevant standards, coordinate design intent across disciplines and give confidence to the Client around this often challenging issue.
Fire engineering design using the C/VM2 Verification Method or Alternative Solution design methodologies generally require peer review from a chartered fire engineer, and this can be requested for Acceptable Solutions designs also. Fire HQ provide peer review services for all these methods.
Our approach to peer review is to timely, professional and focus on adding value to review process when examining the design documentation.
The assessment of existing buildings requires particular care as many buildings can have inherent construction or design issues which first need to be identified, and then a fire engineering upgrade strategy developed. This allows the key items to be promptly addressed to improve fire life safety for building occupants. In this way the fire upgrade works are impactful but commensurate with the scope of the project works on a reasonably practicable basis.
We are able to prepare fire engineering reports to demonstrate compliance with the New Zealand Building Code using either prescriptive or performance based design methods.
At Fire HQ we strongly encourage engaging fire engineering input as early as possible in the design process. This allows us to bring all of our knowledge and experience to the fore by providing timely advice to the project directors where it can be most effective in improving outcomes. This can include Concept Design, Due Diligence or Feasibility stages, as suitable for the particular project. During the concept stage we can advise on the variable compliance methods available and the aesthetic, functional, construction and design cost, and programme impacts of these alternative approaches to allow for informed project decision making.
At Fire HQ we understand a fire engineering design is only as good as its finished implementation in the completed building. We achieve this in two main ways, firstly by working proactively with the design team to implement the fire engineering strategy into the respective design specifications of other disciplines, and secondly by monitoring construction to ensure the requirements are understood and implemented.
We offer construction monitoring services on all our projects where required or requested including provision of PS4 documentation where appropriate conditions are met.