Large scale commercial buildings present significant opportunity for the growth and expansion of a business. At the same time, the potential for considerable damage and loss resulting from a fire is as much of a reality – making expert fire proofing in these buildings a non-negotaible. Naturally, there are challenges that come with fireproofing spaces of this size.

Read on as we examine the most common challenges and identify specific areas of increased need for fire protection. By understanding these challenges, we can better understand the importance of expert fireproofing teams and the critical role they play in enhancing fire safety in large-scale commercial properties.

Addressing the challenges of scale

One of the primary challenges in fireproofing large-scale commercial buildings is their immense size. These structures are often much taller than typical buildings, requiring fireproofing teams to work at significant heights, which introduces additional safety considerations and complexities. Ensuring the safety of workers becomes a paramount concern, necessitating comprehensive safety protocols and equipment, such as harnesses, scaffolding, and aerial lifts.

Before any fireproofing work can begin, all necessary safety precautions must be thoroughly planned and implemented. This preparation stage can be time-consuming, involving detailed risk assessments, the setup of safety systems, and potentially extensive training for personnel.

In addition, working at height often slows down the pace of the application process. Tasks that might be straightforward at ground level become more challenging and time-intensive when performed at elevated levels, requiring careful coordination and precision.

Dealing with Incorrect Building Layout

Fireproofing teams often encounter challenging design and layout issues that complicate their work. For example, storing business stock without fire safety considerations could easily become fuel for a potential fire, which would then cause greater structural damage to the building. The placement of windows is also crucial. Poorly positioned windows can allow wind to propagate a fire, significantly increasing the risk.

Factoring in Movement

Movement or expansion joints are essential in commercial buildings to accommodate structural shifts. These joints are often weak points in floors and walls, making fireproofing more complex. Proper fire-stopping systems must be installed around these penetrations to prevent flames and smoke from passing through, while being installed to accomodate any shifting and retain the integrity of the fire protection system.

Safeguarding Dangerous Materials in Buildings

Large-scale commercial buildings often contain dangerous or flammable materials, necessitating stringent fireproofing measures. For starters, compartments containing hazardous materials often require fire resistance of 240 minutes instead of the most common 120 minutes, which adds to the complexity of the project. Flammable materials also need to be protected against explosions, necessitating solutions like blast fire doors, engineered to withstand intense pressure and shock waves. In situations like these, engaging a specialist fireproofing team is crucial to ensure all safety protocols are met.

Key elements of commercial buildings

Service ducts

Large-scale commercial buildings feature complex networks of ducts to regulate airflow. Since these ducts penetrate walls, they must be treated to prevent the spread of heat and fire. Passive fire protection seals these penetrations, which would otherwise be weak points in the building’s fire defence. This is typically achieved using vermiculite spray, fire wrap, or fire retardant board.

Structural steel

Steel is commonly used in the structural frame of large-scale commercial buildings due to its strength and durability. However, its load-bearing capacity is significantly reduced when exposed to extreme heat, making fire protection crucial. Protecting steel with products like vermiculite spray, fire retardant boards or intumescent paint significantly enhances its fire resistance.

In many cases, modern design features include exposed steel and timber beams, that can pose serious fire risks if not treated properly. Here, a thin film of intumescent paint can be applied to maintain the aesthetic appearance while providing the necessary fire protection.

Your commercial fireproofing partner

Fireproofing large-scale commercial buildings involves numerous challenges, but prioritising fire safety is critical. Luckily, as the size of commercial buildings has increased, so too has the capability of expert fireproofing teams. Engaging one of these teams can help you navigate these complexities effectively and ensure that your commercial building is as safe as it is compliant.

PROFINISH has extensive experience in providing solutions for fireproofing challenges in all types of buildings. We offer a full suite of commercial passive fire protection products and services, as well a team who have years of experience in fireproofing buildings of all sizes. Contact us today to assist you in overcoming the fire protection challenges associated with large-scale commercial projects.