Fire compartmentation is the dividing of a building into separate fire cells or compartments using fire-resistant walls, floors, and doors. The goal is to contain a fire within the room of origin, preventing rapid spread and securing escape routes for occupants.
How Compartmentation Works
By confining fire, heat, and toxic smoke, compartmentation limits damage to property and provides vital additional time for evacuation and fire service response. This is known as passive fire protection.
Common Causes of Breaches
Compartment lines are frequently compromised during building maintenance or structural changes. Examples include:
- New cables, pipes, or conduits drilled through firewalls without fire stopping.
- Damaged or poorly fitted fire doors that leave gaps.
- Deteriorated joint seals in service shafts or cellars.
Checking Compartment Lines
A specialist compartmentation survey uses visual and structural inspections to check fire barrier integrity. Regular reviews are essential, particularly after any electrical or plumbing refurbishment work has occurred at your premises.