Organized into three sections, it begins with the phenomena of fire followed by the principles of design by which one develops a defense against fire disaster in buildings. Lastly, it deals with the hardware of fire control, communication and extinguishment. A thorough analysis of building code criteria regarding fire safety is included.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES: HOW FIRES WORK. Fire Phenomenon in Buildings. Effects of Fire. SOFT TECHNOLOGIES: DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR FIRE SAFETY. Design Strategies. Major Occupancy Classifications. Defining Construction Types. Design Guides for Major Occupancy Types. Exits and Egress. HARD TECHNOLOGIES: CONSTRUCTION COMPONENTS OF FIRE SAFETY. Passive Construction Components. Active Construction Components. Appendices. Glossary of Fire Terms. Bibliography. Index.