Comsats University of Science and Technology, Isb

Submitted to: Ar Arshia Mukhtar 1

Building Services and System II

Analysis of the Fire Security Requirements of

Centaurus Mall
- By: FA20-BAR-009, FA20-BAR-018, FA20-BAR-020, FA20-BAR-035
- Department of Architecture, COMSATS University Islamabad.

Abstract: The Centaurus Mall is a major shopping and entertainment center in Islamabad, Pakistan,
with thousands of daily visitors. Due to its size and complex nature, the mall is prone to fire hazards,
making it essential to have a robust fire security system in place. This report aims to evaluate the fire
security system of the Centaurus Mall and assess its effectiveness in ensuring the safety and security of
the mall's occupants. The report provides a detailed analysis of the mall's fire safety plan, including its
fire detection and suppression systems, emergency response measures, and fire safety training for
employees and tenants. It also examines the mall's adherence to relevant fire safety regulations and
standards, such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes. The report includes an on-site
inspection of the mall's fire safety systems

Overall, the report concludes that the Centaurus Mall has a comprehensive fire security system in place,
which includes an integrated approach to fire prevention, detection, and emergency response.

Index Terms: Centaurus mall, Fire, Fire alarms, Fire security, Fire exit.

Introduction:
Centaurus is a multi-story shopping mall. Part of Centaurus complex.

• Location: F8, Islamabad, Pakistan

• Year: 2013.
• Designed by: Atkins
• Typology: A modernist design, contemporary retail complex that includes a range of retail and
recreational areas.
• Spaces: Shops, Parking, Cinema, Food court, Offices, Apartments and a Hotel.
• Total built-up area: 650,000 square feet.
• Number of floors: 41
• Architectural style: Contemporary and Modern
• Design: The mall has many outdoor terraces that provide views of the surrounding metropolis
as well as a central atrium that brings natural light and ventilation to the inside of the structure.

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 2

Figure 1 Centaurus Mall

Fire Detection System: Fire detection system includes a collection of equipment and devices to
detect the presence of fire in any part of the building and notify the occupants so that they can
evacuate the building.

• Addressable system: As Centaurus Mall is a high-rise building so Addressable fire

alarm system is installed. It is the type of fire security system that employs digital
communication technology to locate and transmit the precise position of fire alarms or other
system components inside a building. Each device in an addressable system is given a distinct
address, allowing the system to identify the precise location of an alert.

Figure 2 Addressable system

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 3

 Working of an Addressable Fire Alarm System:

1. Detection: A fire alarm device transmits a signal to the control panel when it is
activated, for example when a smoke detector detects smoke or when a manual
call point is engaged.
2. Identification: To assist locate the fire within the building, the control panel uses
the device's unique address to identify the one that has been activated.
3. Alert: A warning is subsequently sent via the control panel, which also activates
the building's voice evacuation system and the alarm sounders.
4. Notification: The control panel simultaneously notifies emergency services of
the location of the fire by sending a signal to the building management system or
to a monitoring firm.
5. Control: In order to assist confine the fire and make escape easier, the system
may also be set to activate additional safety elements including smoke control
systems, emergency lights, and ventilation systems.
6. Investigation: The control panel may give the emergency services real-time
information on the location of the fire and any other pertinent information once
they arrive, enabling them to react more quickly and effectively.

• CCTV Monitoring: It is an essential part of a fire detection system since it enables

remote visual surveillance of a building or facility to immediately identify and address
possible fire threats. Hikvision CCTV cameras are installed everywhere in Centaurus Mall.

Figure 3 Hikvision security camera at Centaurus Mall

Although there are numerous ways to use CCTV monitoring in a fire detection system,
Centaurus Mall only uses two different kinds of systems.

1. Early Detection: CCTV cameras are set up everywhere across Centaurus,

especially in areas where there is a fire danger so that they may be
discovered before they become a serious problem.

2. Emergency Response: In order to examine any dangerous events occurring

in an y part of Centaurus Mall, the 480 IP surveillance cameras used in the
system deliver high definition pictures to the control center for both live
monitoring and recording. The iVMS-5200 Pro software's integrated video
analytics capabilities notify operators of events and enable fast resource
allocation to any problematic regions.

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 4

Figure 4 CCTV camera at a corridor in Centaurus Mall

According to Digital Links project manager, Khuram Chohan,"The iVMS-5200

software provides a smart alarm handling mechanism which helps operators
quickly locate and identify alarm incidents - and react quickly and decisively to
prevent security incidents occurring.”

• Fire detection Alarms: In case of any fire, the fire alarms installed in the building
detects the fire and notify the occupants.

 Types of Fire Detection Alarms: There are many types of Fire Detection Alarms. The
types installed in Centaurus Mall are:
1. Smoke Detector: Photoelectric smoke detectors are installed in the ceilings of all the floors
and on the walls in the shops in Centaurus Mall.

Figure 5 Smoke detectors on the ceiling in the Mall

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 5

Figure 6 Wall-mounted smoke and heat detector at a store at the Mall

• Working of a Photoelectric Smoke Detector: This kind uses the light

scattering theory to work. The presence of visible airborne particles (greater
than 3 microns) is detected using photoelectric detectors. A light emitting
diode (LED) located inside the detector projects a focused beam of infrared
light into the detecting chamber. The infrared light beam is dispersed when
smoke or other particles enter the chamber. The dispersed infrared light is
sensed by a photodiode or photo detector, which is typically positioned 90
degrees from the beam. If enough light is detected, the alarm will ring.
Photoelectric detectors are made to find cold, slow-moving fires that emit a
lot of smoke, but they are less sensitive.

Figure 7 Working of a Photoelectric Smoke Detector

2. Heat Detector: Rate-of-Rise type heat detectors are installed in the Centaurus Mall.

Figure 8 Heat detector on the ceiling in the Mall

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 6

• Working of a Rate-of-Rise heat detector: The pace at which the temperature

rises affects how this sensor responds. It has an air chamber that is sealed but
slightly vented; as the temperature close to the device quickly rises, the air
chamber swiftly expands. Electrical connections connecting to the air
chamber start to close as soon as the air chamber expands more quickly than
it can be evacuated, which starts an alarm.

Figure 9 Working of ROR heat detector

 Manual Alarm Station: Also called Manual Call Point is often built so that someone must
shatter a glass panel or glass rod or do other preparatory measures before the alarm may be
actuated in order to prevent inadvertent operation of the switch. These manual call points are
installed on the walls of every shop in the Centaurus Mall.

Figure 10 Manual Call Point inside a shop at the Mall

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 7

• Distance on which the alarms are set inside the Mall:

Smoke Alarms
Heat Alarms

• Quantity of Fire Alarms:

Type of Alarms Ground Floor First floor Second Floor Third Floor Fourth Floor
Smoke Alarm 47 70 52 61 52
Heat Alarm 47 70 52 61 52
Manual Call Point 40 58 42 51 43

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

 8

Fire Suppression System:

What is a fire suppression system?

A fire suppression system is a collection of components that are designed to detect, control, and
extinguish fires. These systems are typically used in buildings, vehicles, and other areas where there
is a risk of fire.

The components of a fire suppression system can include fire detectors, alarms, sprinklers,
extinguishers, and suppression agents such as foam or gas. The system may be activated
automatically by the detection of smoke or heat, or it may be manually activated by a person in the
area.

Types of Fire Suppression System used in Centaurus:

A. Sprinkler System:

A sprinkler system is a type of fire suppression system that uses water or other fire suppression
agents to control or extinguish fires in a building or other enclosed space. The system consists of a
network of pipes and sprinkler heads that are installed throughout the building, typically in the
ceiling. Sprinkler systems can be either wet or dry. Wet systems use water that is constantly in the
pipes and ready to be discharged when needed. Dry systems, on the other hand, use pressurized air
or nitrogen to keep the water out of the pipes until it is needed. Wet pipe system is used in the
Centaurus building that efficiently diminishes fire.

a. How it works?

In the event of a fire, the sprinkler system is

designed to automatically detect the heat from the
fire and activate the appropriate sprinkler heads.
This allows water to be dispersed onto the fire,
helping to control or extinguish it.

Wet pipe sprinkler systems are the most common.

In this system the sprinkler piping is constantly
filled with water. When the temperature at the
ceiling gets hot enough the glass bulb or fusible link
in a sprinkler will break. Since the system is already
filled with water, water is free to flow out of that
sprinkler

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 9

Figure 11: Present Wet Sprinkler System mechanical room in the Centaurus building.

Figure 2: Type of sprinkler attached to ceiling.

Figure 3: Example of current placement of sprinkler on ceiling.

b. Standards of a sprinkler system in Pakistan:

✓ According to Fire Prevention and Audit, all internal car parks below ground level shall have
adequate automatic water sprinkler system connected to the pressurized internal fire
hydrant system.

The Centaurus building has an efficient sprinkler system on floor levels, with monitoring rooms on
major levels.

*Fun fact:

Contrary to what Hollywood would have you think, not all sprinkler heads will operate at once in this
type of system. The temperature around that specific sprinkler head needs to be high enough to
break the glass bulb or fusible link that is holding water back. Once that happens, water will
immediately start flowing from only that head.

B. Fire Extinguisher System:

A fire extinguisher system is a type of fire suppression system that uses fire extinguishers as the
primary means of controlling or extinguishing fires. Fire extinguishers are portable devices that can
be quickly and easily used to put out small fires or control flames until the fire department arrives.
the fire extinguisher system used in the Centaurus building consists of a centralized supply of
portable fire extinguishers located throughout the building.

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 10

a. How it works?

When a fire extinguisher is opened, a valve

inside the body of the extinguisher is released,
allowing the extinguishing agent to flow out
through the nozzle or hose. The extinguishing
agent is propelled by a compressed gas or
stored pressure within the extinguisher.

The fire extinguishers used in the Centaurus

building are likely to include Class A, B, and C
fire extinguishers, which are the most common
types of fire extinguishers used in commercial
buildings.

Class A fire extinguishers: These are used to

extinguish fires involving ordinary
combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth.
They are typically filled with water or a water-
based solution.

Class B fire extinguishers: These are used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids and gases
such as gasoline, oil, and propane. They are typically filled with foam, carbon dioxide, or dry
chemical powder.

Class C fire extinguishers: These are used to extinguish fires involving electrical equipment such as
computers, servers, and other electrical appliances. They are typically filled with carbon dioxide or
dry chemical powder.

Class A Class B Class C

b. Standards of a sprinkler system in Pakistan:

✓ All building shall have one multipurpose ( A,B,C) dry chemical powder 6 Kg Fire
Extinguishers for each 2000 square feet of floor area. At least two fire extinguishers
of 6 kg each shall be placed on each floor (if floor size is less than 2000 square feet).

✓ The maximum travel distance to a fire extinguisher shall not exceed 75 feet but for
kitchen areas this distance is 30 feet.

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 11

Figure 12: Fire extinguishers placed in the hallway of offices in the building.

Figure 2: Fire extinguisher mounted on wall with guidelines attached.

Figure 3: Fire extinguishers placed in the parking lot.

*Fun fact:

The concept of a fire extinguisher has been around for a very long time. Two thousand, two hundred
and nineteen years to be exact. Ctesibius of Alexandria invented a hand pump that, among other
things, was used to pump water to extinguish fire.

C. Fire Hose Reels:

A fire hose reel is a type of fire suppression equipment that consists of a drum or cylinder that holds
a length of fire hose. The hose is connected to a water supply and can be used to quickly and
effectively extinguish fires in small or confined spaces. It's important to remember that fire hose
reels are designed for use on small fires and should not be used on larger or more complex fires.

a. How it works?

A fire hose reel is a type of fire suppression

equipment that works by providing a
readily accessible water supply to
extinguish fires in small or confined
spaces. The hose is stored on a drum or
cylinder that is mounted on a wall or other
fixed structure. When the hose is needed, it can
be quickly and easily pulled off the drum and
connected to a water supply to deliver a
stream of water to the fire.

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 12

b. Standards of a sprinkler system in Pakistan:

✓ All multistory building having four to ten floors shall have a pressurized internal fire
hydrant system which independent over – head water tank of minimum 7500
gallons and external under – ground water lank of 15000 gallons. In case where the
building is over 10 storeys high, it shall have an independent over head tank of
15000 gallons and external under – ground water tank of minimum 30000 gallons.
The external under – ground tank shall accessible to the Fire – fighting vehicles at all
times.

✓ The pressurized internal fire hydrant system shall be independent and separable
from the normal water supply system and shall be maintained at 3-5 bar pressure at
all floors through an electric pump of suitable capacity for fire fighting, which
remains operational even if the power supply of main building is shut off.

✓ The pressurized internal fire hydrant system shall have a water hydrant outlet (with
shutoff valve and a pressure gauge) connected to a 1.5 inch X 100 feet fire hose
stored in metallic hose cabinet at or near an emergency staircase.

Figure 13: Fire hose cabinet in the basement of the building

Figure 2: Fire Hose cabinet present near exits on all floors.

Figure 3: A typical fire hose cabinet for emergency purpose.

*Fun fact:

Fire hoses can be a source of camaraderie among firefighters, who often have stories about their
favorite hoses or memorable moments involving them. Firefighters have reported that when they
turn on the water to a fire hose, the force of the water can cause the hose to whip around like a
snake or even lift firefighters off their feet!

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 13

D. Fire Extinguisher Balls:

Fire extinguisher balls are small spherical devices that can be used to extinguish small fires. They are
filled with a dry chemical powder or foam, and when activated, the ball will release the extinguishing
agent to suppress the fire. Fire extinguisher balls can be thrown or rolled into a fire and will activate
upon impact.

a. How it works?

Fire extinguisher balls work by using a

combination of chemicals and heat activation
to extinguish a fire. When the ball is exposed
to flames or heat, a fuse will trigger a built-in
mechanism that will activate the extinguishing
agent inside the ball. The ball will then burst
open, releasing the chemical powder or foam
that will smother the fire. The extinguishing
agent is designed to starve the fire of oxygen,
effectively putting it out. Because fire
extinguisher balls are designed to be portable and easy to use, they can be thrown or rolled into a
fire from a safe distance.

b. Standards of a sprinkler system in Pakistan:

According to Fire Prevention and Audit of Pakistan, there is no special requirement for placing Fire
extinguishers balls in buildings. However, an added facility to the existing prevention system is
always appreciated.

Figure 1: A fire extinguisher ball mounted on the

wall between two fire extinguishers.

*Fun fact:

The concept of fire extinguisher balls was first developed in the early 2000s in Korea, where they
were initially used in military settings. The idea quickly gained popularity and has since spread to
other parts of the world.

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

 14

FIRE EXITS:
Fire exits are designated routes within a building that
provide a safe means of escape in the event of a fire. Fire
exits are typically marked with clear signage and may be
located near stairwells or at the ends of corridors. It is
important to know the location of fire exits in a building so
that you can quickly and safely evacuate in the event of an
emergency.

Emergency exit gates in centaurus ground floor

Rules for fire exits

There are several rules that are important to follow when it comes to fire exits:

▪ Keep fire exits clear

Fire exits should never be blocked or obstructed. keep aisles,
corridors, and stairwells free of clutter, debris, or equipment that
could prevent people from evacuating quickly.

Know the location of fire exits

all staff should be familiar with the location of all fire exits in the
building and guide other people too.

▪ Do not prop open fire doors

Fire doors should always remain closed to prevent the spread of
fire and smoke. Do not prop open fire doors or hold them open with
wedges or other objects.

▪ Do not use fire exits for anything other than emergencies

Fire exits should only be used for evacuating during an emergency.
They should not be used as a shortcut or for any other purpose.

▪ Follow emergency procedures

In the event of a fire, follow the emergency procedures established by your
workplace or building management. This may include activating the fire alarm,
evacuating the building, and gathering at designated assembly points.

▪ Do not re-enter the building until it is declared safe

Once you have evacuated the building, do not re-enter until it has been declared safe
by the appropriate authorities.

HAADIA SHAKEEL I FA20-BAR-009

 15

Fire safety signs are important visual aids that provide information about fire hazards, emergency
procedures, and firefighting equipment in a building or workplace. These signs are designed to be
easily recognizable and understood by anyone, regardless of their language or literacy level, in order
to quickly and effectively communicate important safety information in the event of a fire.

Emergency Guidlines by Centaurus

▪ Sound the alarm by pressing nearest fire alarm: MCP
manual call point
▪ Do not use lift/elevator during fire
▪ Locate the emergency exit and direct yourself towards
the exit
▪ Follow escaperoute marked with arrows leading to the
nearest exit
▪ Do not eneter to collect belongings.
▪ Dont push/pull, endanger others
▪ Upon evacuation, go to designated assembly, point on
the west side

Useful Information
• Incase of catching a fire, stop, drop
and roll
• Use blankets
• Incase of sparkling//

HAADIA SHAKEEL I FA20-BAR-009

 16

Obstruction in fire exits

Obstructions in fire exits can be extremely dangerous and can impede a quick and safe evacuation
during an emergency. In fact, blocking fire exits is often considered a violation of local fire codes and
may result in fines or other penalties
Here are some common types of obstructions that should be avoided in fire exits:

▪ Physical barriers
This can include any physical objects that block or impede the exit path, such as
furniture, equipment, or boxes.

▪ Propped-open doors
Fire doors should never be propped open as they are designed to automatically close
in the event of a fire to prevent the spread of flames and smoke.

▪ Decorative materials
Decorative items such as curtains or hanging decorations should be avoided in fire
exits as they can catch fire and cause smoke or flames to spread quickly.

▪ Electrical cords
Electrical cords should not be run through fire exits as they can be a tripping hazard
and can block the exit path.

EMERGENCY EXIT PLAN

❖ all fire escapes should be at

Total number of fire exits: 8 least 1 metre wide
❖ rectangular stair layout
Escape route should be used for
Assembly point emergency exits.
❖ Emergency exit after every
Type of fire exits: 3 main exits that are everytime open 150-200ft.
❖ Emergency stairs shouldn’t
5 emergency doors that open only in case of emergency be count in the main stairs.

HAADIA SHAKEEL I FA20-BAR-009

 17

Emergency exit plans given on every floor near fire exit

route mostly near the lift that will help people to escape in
case of fire

WORKABILITY
Fire systems in malls typically include several components that work together to detect and respond to
fires. These components may include fire alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers, and smoke
management systems.

• Fire alarms are typically the first line of defense in detecting a fire. They consist of a network
of detectors located throughout the mall that are designed to detect smoke or heat. When the
alarm is triggered, it sends a signal to a central control panel, which sounds an alarm to alert
occupants of the mall to evacuate the building.
• Sprinkler systems are designed to extinguish a fire or prevent it from spreading. They consist
of a network of pipes that are filled with water under pressure. When a fire is detected, the
sprinkler heads in the affected area open, allowing water to flow onto the fire and extinguish
it.

HAADIA SHAKEEL I FA20-BAR-009

 18

• Fire extinguishers are typically located in strategic locations throughout the mall, and are
intended for use by trained personnel to extinguish small fires before they become large. They
work by releasing a substance that either removes the oxygen from the fire, cools the fire, or
smothers the flames.
• Smoke management systems are designed to control the spread of smoke in the event of a
fire. They consist of a network of fans, vents, or ducts that are used to remove smoke from the
affected area
It is important that fire systems in malls are regularly inspected, tested, and maintained by qualified
professionals to ensure that they are in good working order. This can help to prevent fires or limit
their impact, and ultimately protect the safety of mall occupants.

FIRE INCIDENT IN CENTAURUS

PROBLEM:
a huge plume of smoke emanating from the building,
with flames both inside and outside the shopping
centre. The fire broke out at lunch time, with footage
showing roaring flames near the food court while it
was packed with visitors.
CAUSE:
the fire initially started on the third floor in Monal
restaurant before spreading to other parts of the mall.
Fortunately, the fire was extinguished in a matter of
hours as people rushed to evacuate.

• The installed automatic devices for fire prevention in the building were found to be flawed.
• Likewise, the food court's tenants too violated fire and safety regulations
• material used in the kitchens was not fire-resistant.
• The kitchens also contained supplies and fuel that were fire-prone.
• The wiring and equipment that were installed on the food court's ceiling were not constructed
per safety regulations.
• the mall did not have trained firefighters, which resulted in additional damage because CDA
bylaws state that firefighting personnel must be inside the mall all the time when it is open.

A fire erupted at the third floor of Centaurus

Mall in Islamabad on October 09, 2022

HAADIA SHAKEEL I FA20-BAR-009

 19

FIRE RESISTANT MATERIALS

Fire protection materials

• Fire-rated drywall:
This is a type of gypsum board that contains
glass fibers and other additives to increase its
resistance to fire.

• Fire-resistant glass:
This is a type of glass that can withstand high
temperatures without breaking or cracking,
preventing fire from spreading.

• Fireproof insulation:
This is a type of insulation that is made of mineral wool or ceramic fibers and can resist high
temperatures.

• Fire retardant paint:

This type of paint contains fire-resistant chemicals that can slow down or prevent the spread
of fire.

• Firestop sealants:
These are special sealants used to seal gaps and joints in building materials to prevent the
spread of fire and smoke.

• Fire-resistant doors:
These are doors made of materials that can withstand high temperatures and prevent fire from
spreading to other areas of a building.

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020

 20

• Fire-resistant roofing:
This is a type of roofing material that can resist fire, such as metal, clay, or asphalt shingles.

• Fire-resistant building wraps:

These are sheets of material that are used to wrap the exterior of a building to provide an
additional layer of fire protection.

• Fire-resistant curtains:
These are curtains made of special materials that can resist fire, often used to divide large
spaces in buildings.

• Fire-resistant coatings:
These are coatings applied to structural steel or other building materials to enhance their
resistance to fire.

IBC CODES
901.2 Fire protection systems.

Fire protection systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance
with this code and the International Fire Code

Any fire protection system for which an exception or reduction to the provisions of this code
has been granted shall be considered to be a required system

Exception: Any fire protection system or portion thereof not required by this code shall be
permitted to be installed for partial or complete protection provided that such system meets
the requirements of this code.

901.3 Modifications.

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020

 21

Persons shall not remove or modify any fire protection system installed or maintained under
the provisions of this code or the International Fire Code without approval by the building
official

901.4 Threads

Threads provided for fire department connections to sprinkler systems standpipes, yard
hydrants or any other fire hose connection shall be compatible with the connections used by
the local fire department

901.5 Acceptance tests.

Fire protection systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of this code and
the International Fire Code Where required, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of the
building official Tests required by this code, the International Fire Code and the standards
listed in this code shall be conducted at the expense of the owner or the owner's authorized
agent. It shall be unlawful to occupy portions of a structure until the required fire protection
systems within that portion of the structure have been tested and approved

901.6 Supervisory service.

Where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising
station in accordance with NFPA 72

501.6.1 Automatic sprinkler systems.

Automatic sprinkler systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station

Exceptions:

1. A supervising station is not required for automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and
two-family dwellings

2. Limited area systems in accordance with Section 903 3 8.

901.6.2 Integrated testing.

Where two or more fire protection or life safety systems are interconnected, the intended
response of subordinate fire protection and life safety systems shall be verified when required
testing of the initiating system is conducted In addition, integrated testing shall be performed
in accordance with Sections 90621 and 901.6.22

[Link] High-rise buildings.

For high-rise buildings, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test
performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10
years unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance
with NFPA 4 If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the
integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection
or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020

 22

[Link] Smoke control systems.

Where a fire alarm system is integrated with a smoke control system as outlined in Section
909, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to
issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless
otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4: If
an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall
not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety
functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced
Fire Areas
Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits
established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire
areas shall be separated by fire walls constructed in accordance with Section 706, fire barners
constructed in accordance with Section 707, or horizontal assembles constructed in
accordance with Section 711, or a contination therof having a fire-resistance rating of not less
than that determined in accordance with Section 707 3:10

NFPA Codes ;

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has several codes and standards that apply
to fire safety in shopping malls. The specific codes that may apply can vary depending on the
size and design of the mall, as well as the specific hazards present. Here are some of the key
NFPA codes and standards that may be applicable:

NFPA 101 Life Safety Code: This code provides requirements for the design, construction,
and operation of buildings, including shopping malls, to ensure life safety from fire and other
hazards. It covers a wide range of topics, including means of egress, fire alarms and
sprinklers, and fire-resistant construction materials.

NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems: This standard provides
requirements for the installation and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems in buildings,
including shopping malls. It covers everything from system design to water supply
requirements to system testing and maintenance.

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code: This code provides requirements for the
installation, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems in buildings, including shopping
malls. It covers everything from the types of detectors that should be used to the placement of
alarms and the testing and maintenance of the system.

NFPA 101A Guide on Alternative Approaches to Life Safety: This guide provides
information on alternative approaches to life safety in buildings that may not fully comply
with the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code. This could include strategies such as fire engineering,
performance-based design, or the use of fire safety management systems.

It is important to note that these codes are just a starting point, and that local and state codes
and regulations may also apply. Shopping mall owners and operators should consult with a
qualified fire protection engineer or code consultant to ensure that their facility is in
compliance with all applicable codes and standards.

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020

 23

Fire protection systems must be installed and maintained in accordance with the International
Building Code and International Fire Code, and that fire protection systems must be tested
and monitored as required by these codes. In addition, NFPA codes and standards may apply
to various aspects of fire safety in shopping malls, including means of egress, sprinkler
systems, and fire alarm systems.

CONCLUSION:
Centaurus Mall has a fire detection system that includes an addressable fire alarm system,
CCTV monitoring, and fire detection alarms.

The addressable fire alarm system is used to locate and transmit the precise position of fire
alarms or other system components inside the building. Each device in an addressable system
is given a distinct address, allowing the system to identify the precise location of an alert. The
system works in the following steps: detection, identification, alert, notification, control, and
investigation.

CCTV monitoring is used for early detection and emergency response. The 480 IP
surveillance cameras used in the system deliver high definition pictures to the control center
for both live monitoring and recording. The iVMS-5200 Pro software's integrated video
analytics capabilities notify operators of events and enable fast resource allocation to any
problematic regions.

There are different types of fire detection alarms installed in the building. Photoelectric
smoke detectors are installed in the ceilings of all the floors and on the walls in the shops in
Centaurus Mall. Rate-of-Rise type heat detectors are also installed in the Mall. Manual alarm
stations are also installed on the walls of every shop in the Centaurus Mall.

The smoke alarms are set at a distance inside the Mall, and so are the heat alarms. The
quantity of fire alarms varies on each floor

In summary fire safety is an important aspect of building safety that should not be ignored. It
is important to have proper fire safety measures in place, such as fire alarms, fire
extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and fire exits. Fire extinguisher balls can also be an added
facility to the existing fire prevention system. Additionally, it is important to follow fire
safety rules and guidelines, including keeping fire exits clear and not propping open fire
doors, and to have an emergency exit plan in place. By having these measures in place and
following proper fire safety protocols, we can help prevent and minimize the damage caused
by fires.

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020

 24

THANK YOU

ZOUPASH KHAN I FA20-BAR-035

MAHNOOR IMRAN CHISHTYI FA20-BAR-018

HAADIA SHAKEEL FA20-BAR-009

ABDUL QADIR FA20-BAR-020