- Author
- Kersken-Bradley, M.
- Title
- Probabilistic Safety Concept.
- Coporate
- Institut fur Bautechnik, Berlin
- Book or Conf
- C.C.E. C.E.C. K.E.G. Fire-Safe Steel Construction: Practical Design. Working Document. April 11-12, 1984, Luxembourg, Q/1-3 p., 1984
- Keywords
- construction materials
- Abstract
- The traditional procedure in structural fire design is based on a classification system. On the one hand a required time of fire duration in terms of a standard fire exposure is stipulated in building regulations and codes--usually expressed in multiples of 30 minutes. On the other hand the fire resistance time of structural elements is determined experimentally in a standard fire resistance test--and usually classified in multiples of 30 minutes. Admittedly, this classification system is very convenient and may provide a reasonable design for buildings and occupancies, the fire risk of which is well experienced. But the design may become questionable in cases where the heat exposure, the structural response, the associated uncertainties and fire risks differ substantially from the average situation covered by the regulations. Eventually, in the specification of the required fire duration physical aspects and safety considerations are lumped together and thus provide no guidance as to the intended level of safety. This may give rise to difficulties in the assessment of particular projects and may likewise impede any attempt to harmonize principles and rules in fire design.