Rop Code - English Part 1

Royal Oman Police
General Administration
of Civil Defense
Fire Prevention and Protection

Requirements in Buildings
Part One
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements
in Buildings
Part One
Introduction
Based on the mandate of their Royal Highnesses and their Excellencies the
Ministers of the Interior of the GCC States to the Technical Committee at the
Secretariat of GCC, at their meeting held in Muscat on 29th- 30th of Jumada Al-
Thani 1417 AH, corresponding to the 10th – 11th of November 1996, in order
develop safety requirements and preventive supervision for establishments, the
Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council is pleased to provide “The
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Establishments*” as part of a
group of fire protection systems designed to protect the lives of the users of these
establishments in the GCC States.
Furthermore, the Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council also thanks
all those who contributed to the preparation of this project, with its appreciation for
all the efforts being made in order to implement these conditions and requirements
that aim to protect lives and properties; as its application is a real translation of the
deepest indications and signs of cooperation, and the objectives of the leaders of
the GCC States, which seek to protect the national wealth from the dangers that
may face it in the field of modern life
May God bless us and guides us towards the right path
* Adopted by a decision of the Inspector General of Police and Customs no. 77/2002 as Omani
requirements, and published in the Official Gazette in Issue No. 727
In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
The Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Establishments – Part One
1 Title:
1.1 This Regulation is known as the Fire Protection Requirements Regulations in Establishments, and is
referenced in this document by “the Regulation” or “This Regulation”.
2 Purpose:
2.1 The purpose of this Regulation is to determine the minimum prevention requirements for fire
protection to protect the lives of the building users, without hindering their daily use of the building.
3 Purpose:
3.1 This Regulation concerns the requirements for the protection of lives from fire and similar emergency
situations.
3.2 This Regulation has taken into account the panic resulting from fire in buildings, through
requirements intended to eliminate the causes of panic in times of emergency.
3.3 Several aspects have been taken into account when developing this Regulation, most notably:
3.3.1 The ability of the structural factors to resist fire.
3.3.2 Fire protection types and levels.
3.3.3 The type of building users and their numbers.
3.3.4 The types of activities used in the building.
3.4 The Regulation has placed the minimum requirements for designing means of escape (emergency
exits) for the user of the building to safe locations, either inside or outside the building.
3.5 It has taken into account that the means of escape are not the only factor covered by the Regulation
for the protection of lives; however, the Regulation does not address all the considerations, for
example, it does not address public awareness, which is considered one of the factors for protecting
lives.
3.6 The Regulation did not take into account the normal personal incidents (like falling on the ground)
caused by lack of awareness among the building users to safety methods; furthermore, the Regulation
focused on the protection of lives from fire as a base for its requirements, and did not consider the
protection of property as a base of its requirements.
3.7 This Regulation is not a regulation for the construction conditions, but it is used with the Construction
Conditions Regulation.
3.8 This Regulation was not developed to ensure the safety of the lives of those who ignited the fire or
were close to the ignition point, either unintentionally or willingly.
B
4 Application Procedures:
4.1 This Regulation applies to all buildings whose construction licenses are issued after the effectiveness
of this Regulation.
4.2 It is impractical in most cases to apply this Regulation on existing buildings, and in such case, the
Civil Defense may request additional equipment or as an alternative for some preventive precautions
required in accordance with this Regulation.
4.3 When licensing for construction or operation, the Civil Defense may request additional equipment or
as an alternative for some preventive precautions required in accordance with this Regulation.
4.4 Any new additions to the existing building must be subject to the requirements and conditions of this
Regulation.
4.5 When the building has two or more activities or uses that vary in severity and are inseparable, the
requirements that are keener on the safety of lives are applied instead of the different activities or
uses.
4.6 None of the requirements contained in this Regulation prevent the design, installation or use of better
types of preventive equipment for fire protection; or more emergency exits; or equipment that will
have a positive impact on protecting the lives of building users or those that carry out the same
purpose referred to in this Regulation or surpasses it; provided that documents and records that prove
the efficiency of the alternative are submitted to the Civil Defense for approval.
4.7 The fire prevention systems, equipment and tools at the building must be maintained to ensure its
permanent work with high efficiency.
5 The Operation and Use of a Building:
The buildings, whose construction licenses are issued after the effectiveness of this Regulation, are not
allowed to be operated or used in whole or part thereof, if they are contrary to the requirements of this
Regulation.
The buildings used before the effectiveness of this Regulation can be used or operated, provided that the
two following essential conditions are provided:
1- There is no real visible danger that can affect the lives of the building users.
2- The building’s classification and activity remain unchanged, and any change would require the
application of the Regulation’s conditions and requirements. As long as the means of escape
(emergency exits) remain available, and the fire protection systems are handled as usual, the
building can be used during maintenance or modified by addition or omission.
C
6 Design Basics:
6.1 The purpose of this Regulation as previously mentioned focuses on protecting the building users
without hindering their daily use of the building, and this purpose can be reached by ensuring the
application of the minimum preventive requirements for fire protection in buildings and
establishments, which boil down to the following considerations:
6.1.1 It must be taken into account that the structural frame and the building are designed, coordinated
prepared, operated and maintained to avoid risks to the lives of the building users from fire, smoke,
fumes and panic in emergency situations, and allows the building users to evacuate in case of
emergency.
6.1.2 Ensure that the building’s structural frame will withstand the effects of fire during the evacuation of
its user in emergency situations.
6.1.3 At the time of the building’s design and the initiation of its construction, ensure the availability of
means of escape (emergency exits) suitable to each enterprise or building, in terms of number,
capacity, location, building’s height and quality of materials used in the construction; taking into
account the type of the building and its uses and users, and the prevention equipment for fire
protection that must be provided.
6.1.4 Ensure the availability of the means of escape (emergency exits) without relying on fire-fighting
methods.
6.1.5 It is not always necessary to fully evacuate the building to escape the fire; the building may have a
horizontal evacuation area protected from smoke or gas leaks from floors or other parts of the
building. These protected locations provide relative safety until the emergency situation is cleared.
6.1.6 During the design, ensure that means of escape are free of all that will hinder their use, and make
sure that the direction for opening the doors in the design and implementation are in line with the
escape path.
6.1.7 Make sure to put signs on the escape route, in order to avoid confusion during evacuation.
6.1.8 Ensure the provision of adequate lighting and alarms suitable for the building, and isolate the
vertical openings from the rest of the building.
6.1.9 Ensure the availability of minimum preventive requirements for fire protection contained in this
Regulation.
6.1.10 Give opportunity to the design to provide more protective requirements needed for the continuity
of use of the building.
D
General Index
The Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Establishments – Part

One
Page Chapter Chapter Name
1 One General Preventive Requirements for Fire Protection in Establishments
32 Two General Requirements for Fire-Fighting Systems and Alarm Systems
54 Three General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
83 Four General Requirements for Engineering Services
104 Five Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Assembly Buildings
113 Six Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Educational Buildings
122 Seven Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in (Health and Social)
Caretaking Buildings
130 Eight Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Residential Buildings
144 Nine Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Commercial Buildings and
Public Markets
156 Ten Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Industrial Establishments

and Industrial Occupations Shops
164 Eleven Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Warehouse Buildings and
Parking Lots
E
Index
Chapter One
General Preventive Requirements for Fire Protection in Establishments
Chapter One: General Preventive Requirements for Fire Protection in
Page Symbol
Establishments
4 1 Definitions
7 2 Classification of Buildings and Establishments

7 2.1.1 *Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of the Nature of Use
*Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of the Dangerousness of its
9 2.1.3
Contents
9 3 The Documentary Courses for Construction and Use Licenses
9 4 Design, Supervision and Execution
9 5 Site Organization Requirements for Fire Prevention:

10 5.4 *Arrival of Civil Defense Vehicles
10 5.5 * Arrival of Civil Defense Men

11 6 Structural Requirements and Building Materials:
11 6.2 *Structural Classification of Buildings
11 6.3 * Specifications of Building Materials
13 7 Control of Fire Spread:
15 7.1 *Fire Spread Prevention Units
15 7.2 *Fire Spread Prevention Barriers

16 7.3 *Hidden Gap
18 7.4 *External Spread between Fire Sections
19 7.5 *Fire Spread at the Surface Level between Sections

20 7.6 *Fire Spread in Buildings
22 8 Structural Requirements for Buildings’ Construction Elements:
22 8.1 *Structural Frame

23 8.8 *Internal Partitions
24 8.9 *Suspended (Dropped) Ceilings
24 8.10 *Thermal Insulation Wrapping

25 8.11 *Fire Resistant Doors
26 8.12 *Iron Structural Frame
F
Index Cont’d
Chapter One
28 8.13 Plastic Building Materials
General Requirements for Various Construction Sections (Basements,
29 9
Mezzanine, Atrium, etc.)
29 9.1 *Basements
30 9.2 *Atriums
30 9.3 *Mezzanine
Chapter Two
General Requirements for Fire-Fighting Systems and Alarm Systems
Page Symbol Chapter Two: General Requirements for Fire-Fighting Systems and Alarm Systems
35 1 Objective
35 2 Application Fields
35 3 Design Requirements
35 4 Licensing Requirements
35 5 Maintenance Requirements
35 6 Training Requirements
35 7 Classification of Fire-Fighting Systems and Equipment
36 7.1 Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
36 7.1.1 *Manual Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2 **Types of Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2.1 **Water Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2.2 **Foam Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.3 **Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.4 **Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.5 **Vaporizing-Liquid Fire Extinguishers
37 7.3 How to Select the Suitable Fire Extinguishers
37 7.4 Types of Fire:
37 7.4.1 *Fire Type (A)
37 7.4.2 *Fire Type (B)
38 7.4.3 *Fire Type (C)
38 7.4.4 *Fire Type (D)
38 7.5 General Aspects in the Distribution of Manual Fire Extinguishers
39 7.6 Distribution of Manual Fire-Fighting Extinguishers
G
Index Cont’d
Chapter Two
Chapter Two Cont’d: General Requirements for Fire-Fighting
Page Symbol
Systems and Alarm Systems
47 7.7 Fixed Fire-Fighting Equipment
47 7.7.1 *Coiled Rubber Hoses
47 7.7.2 *Dry Vertical Pipes
47 7.7.3 *Moist Vertical Pipes
48 7.7.4 *Foam Discharge Network
48 7.7.5 *External Fire Hydrants
49 7.8 Automatic Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment
49 7.8.1 *Automatic Fire Extinguishing Water Sprinklers System
49 7.8.2 *Types of Automatic Fire Extinguishing Water Sprinklers Systems
50 7.8.3 *Halon System
50 7.8.4 *Carbon Dioxide (CO2) System
51 7.8.5 *Dry Chemical Powder System
52 7.8.6 *Foam and Water System
52 7.8.7 *Automatic Fixed Unit (Modeler Extinguisher)
53 7.9 Fire Alarm Systems
53 7.9.1 *Manual Alarm System
53 7.9.2 *Automatic Alarm System
H
Index Cont’d
Chapter Three
General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
Page Symbol Chapter Three: General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
57 1 Components of Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
57 2 Application of the Means of Escape Requirements (Emergency Exits)
57 3 Requirements of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
58 4 Principles of Designing the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
58 4.1 Movement Distance:
60 4.1.1 *Closed Ends in the paths of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
60 4.1.2 *Direct Distance
60 4.2 The Absorptive Capacity of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 4.3 The Height of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 4.4 The Wideness of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
63 4.5 Number of Means of Escape Exits (Emergency Exits)
64 4.6 Distribution of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
65 5 General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits):
65 5.1 *Building Materials
65 5.2 *Protection from the Risk of Fire and Smoke
65 5.3 *Protection of the Openings Existing in the Partition Walls
65 5.4 *Internal Finishing of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
66 6 The Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
66 7 The Emergency Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
67 8 Guide Signs for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
68 9 Protection from Falling while Using the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
69 10 Doors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
70 10.4 *Organization of the Movement of the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency Exits)
72 10.5 *The Means for Opening the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency Exits)
72 10.6 *The Automatic and Special Doors for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
72 10.7 *Revolving Doors
*Restricting the Movement of the Building Occupants and the Means of Escape
72 10.8
(Emergency Exits)
72 10.9 *Field of Vision through the Means of Escape Doors
I
Index Cont’d
Chapter Three
Page Symbol Chapter Three Cont’d: General Requirements for Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits)
73 11 Corridors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
73 11.6 Floors of the Means of Escape Corridors (Emergency Exits)
74 12 Internal Stairs
74 13 Specifications of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 14 Protection of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 15 Ventilation of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 15.1 *Ventilation by Natural Means
77 15.2 *Ventilation by Mechanical Means
78 16 Distribution of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
78 17 External Stairs
79 18 Bridges, Balconies and Exterior Corridors
79 19 Ramps
79 20 Final Exit of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
80 21 Horizontal Exit of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
81 22 Special Means of Escape
81 22.2 *Spiral Staircase
82 22.3 *Fixed Upright Ladder (Sailor Type)
82 22.4 *Fixed Inclined Ladder
82 22.5 *Automatic Emergency Stairs
82 23 External Windows
J
Index Cont’d
Chapter Four
General Requirements for Engineering Services
Page Symbol Chapter Four: General Requirements for Engineering Services
86 1 Ventilation and Central Air Conditioning
87 2 Electrical Wiring
90 3 Garbage Collection and Disposal
90 4 Steam and Hot Water Boilers
91 5 Electric Escalators
91 6 Elevators
91 6.4 *Fire Elevator
92 6.5 *Elevator Shaft
93 6.6 *Elevator Machine Room
93 6.7 *Elevator Cabin
94 6.8 *Supplying Elevators with Electric Current
94 6.9 *Periodic Inspection and Maintenance on Elevators
95 7 Liquid Fuel Tanks
95 8 Liquid Fuel Tank Room
96 9 Gaseous Fuel Tank
96 10 Chimneys for Discharging Cooking and Heating Fumes
97 11 Ventilation and Smoke Discharge
98 12 The Fire Protection Requirements for the Central System of the Liquefied Gas
Fuel Used in Buildings:
98 12.1 *Estimation of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size
98 12.2 *Selection of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size
99 12.3 *Specifications of the Central Fuel Gas Tank and Its Equipment
100 12.4 *Selection of the Location of the Central Fuel Gas Tank
101 12.5 The Central Fuel Gas Tank Fence
101 12.6 Prevention Requirements when Using (Mobile Liquefied Gas) Cylinders in
the Central System
101 12.7 Storage of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders
101 12.8 Regulator of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders
101 12.9 Supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas through a Central Network
K
Index Cont’d
Chapter Five
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Assembly Buildings
Page Symbol Chapter Five: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Assembly Buildings
106 1 Definition
106 2 Fire Hazard
106 3 Structural Requirements
106 4 Mixed Use
107 5 Control of Fire Spread
107 5.1 *Horizontal Spread
107 5.2 *Vertical Spread
107 5.3 *External Spread
107 5.4 *Arrival of Civil Defense Machinery
107 6 Means of Escape
107 6.2 *Absorptive Capacity
107 6.3 *Wideness
108 6.4 *Movement Distance
108 6.5 *Direct Distance
108 6.6 *Corridors
108 6.7 *Exits
109 6.8 *Staircase
109 6.9 *Final Exit
109 7 Fire-Fighting and Alarm Equipment
111 8 Engineering Services
111 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Cinemas and Theatres”
L
Index Cont’d
Chapter Six
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Educational Buildings
Chapter Six: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Page Symbol
Educational Buildings
116 1 Definition
116 2 Fire Hazard
117 4 Mixed Use
117 6.3 *Wideness
118 6.6 *Corridors
118 6.7 *Exits
119 6.8 *Ramps
119 6.9 *Staircase
119 6.10 *Final Exit
M
Index Cont’d
Chapter Seven
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Caretaking Buildings
Chapter Seven: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Page Symbol
124 1 Definition
124 2 Fire Hazard
125 4 Mixed Use
126 6.3 *Wideness
126 6.6 *Corridors
126 6.7 *Exits
126 6.8 *Ramps
127 6.9 *Staircase
127 6.10 *Horizontal Exit
N
Index Cont’d
Chapter Eight
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Residential Buildings
Page Symbol Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Residential Buildings
133 1 Residential Buildings Sections according to the Type of Use
133 First Preventive Conditions for Collective Residential Buildings
133 1.1 Definition of Collective Residential Buildings
133 2 Fire Hazard
134 4 Mixed Use
135 6.2 *Wideness
135 6.5 *Corridors
136 6.6 *Exits
136 6.7 *Ramps
136 6.8 *Staircase
O
Index Cont’d
Chapter Nine
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Commercial Buildings and Public Markets
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Commercial Buildings
Page Symbol
and Public Markets
147 1 Definition
147 2 Fire Hazard
148 4 Mixed Use
149 6.3 *Wideness
149 6.5 *Corridors
150 6.6 *Exits
150 6.7 *Ramps
150 6.8 *Staircase
154 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Shops and Central Markets”
P
Index Cont’d
Chapter Ten
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Industrial Buildings
Page Symbol Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Industrial Buildings
158 1 Definition
158 2 Fire Hazard
159 4 Mixed Use
160 6.3 *Wideness
160 6.5 *Corridors
160 6.6 *Exits
161 6.7 *Staircase
161 6.8 *Final Exit
Q
Index Cont’d
Chapter Eleven
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Warehouse Buildings and Parking Lots
Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Warehouse Buildings
Page Symbol
and Parking Lots
167 1 Definition
167 2 Fire Hazard
168 4 Mixed Use
169 6.2 *Wideness
170 6.4 *Corridors
170 6.5 *Exits
170 6.6 *Staircase
170 6.8 *Final Exit
170 6.9 *Sections for Other Uses
172 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Parking Lots”
R
Index Cont’d
Chapter One
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of their
9 1-1
dangerousness
12 1-2 Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire
14 1-3 The Division of Buildings into Fire Spread Prevention Units
The Minimum Fire Resistance Degree for the Construction Elements in
15 1-4
Buildings.
The Resistance Level of the Fire Spread Preventive Barriers according to
16 1-5
the Hazard Level in the Sectors that they Separate
The Required Distance between the Buildings and the Plot Boundaries
21 1-6 (the Property’s Boundaries) depending on the Building’s Height and the
Area of the Openings on the Exterior Facades.
22 1-7 The Fire Resistance Degree Required for Building Frame
24 1-8 The Flame Spread Degree for Some Building Materials
Chapter Two
Table
Page Table Name
No.
41 2-1 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (A)
42 – 45 2-2 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (B)
46 2-3 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (C)
Chapter Three
General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) – Index of Tables
Table
Page Table Name
No.
58 3-1 The Movement Distance for Various Types of Areas in the Buildings
60 3-2 The Minimum Width for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 3-3 The Buildings’ Evacuation Time in Case of Fire
62 3-4 The Estimation of the Number of the Building’s Occupants
63 3-5 The Number of Required Exits for Specific Number of People
S
Index Cont’d
Chapter Five
Table
Page Table Name
No.
108 5-1 Number of Exits from the Audience Halls in Cinemas and Theaters
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Assembly Buildings according to Category,

110 5-2
Height and Structural Classification
Requirements of the Fire-Fighting Water Sprinklers at the Assembly
110 5-3
Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
111 5-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Assembly Buildings
Chapter Six
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in
116 6-1
Educational Purposes
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for
118 6-2
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Educational Buildings according to
120 6-3
Category, Height and Structural Classification
121 6-4 Distribution of Fire Alarm Equipment in Educational Buildings
121 6-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Educational Buildings
Chapter Seven
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as
124 7-1
126 7-2
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Caretaking Buildings according to Category,
128 7-3
129 7-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Caretaking Buildings
T
Index Cont’d
Chapter Eight
Page Table No. Table Name
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Residential

134 8-1
Buildings
135 8-2 Calculation of the Movement Distance for Residential Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (A), consisting of

138 8-3(A) Permanent Residential Units for a Single Family (Apartments), according to Category,
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (B), consisting of Rooms
139 8-3(B) or Dormitories for Permanent Residence, whether Individually or Collectively,
according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (C), consisting of Rooms
140 8-3(C) for Temporary Accommodation such as Hotels and Furnished Apartments, according to
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (A),
141 8-4(A) consisting of Permanent Residential Units for a Single Family (Apartments), according
to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (B),
141 8-4(B) consisting of Rooms or Dormitories for Permanent Residence, whether Individually or
Collectively, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (C),
141 8-4(C) consisting of Rooms for Temporary Accommodation such as Hotels and Furnished
Apartments, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Chapter Nine
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Commercial

147 9-1
Buildings
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Commercial
149 9-2
Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (A) -
152 9-3 (A)
Shops, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (B) -
153 9-3 (B)
Offices, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (A) –

154 9-4 (A)
Shops
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (B) –

154 9-4 (B)
Shops
U
Index Cont’d
Chapter Ten
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as
158 10-1
Industrial Buildings
Fire Section Area in Industrial Buildings according to the dangerousness
159 10-2
of its operations
160 10-3
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Industrial Buildings according to Category,
162 10-4
163 10-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Industrial Buildings
Chapter Eleven
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used for
168 11-1
Storage Purposes
Fire Section Area in Warehouse Buildings according to the dangerousness
168 11-2
of its operations
169 11-3
Warehouse Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Warehouse Buildings according to Category,
171 11-4
172 11-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Warehouse Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Parking Lot Buildings according to
173 11-6
174 11-7 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Parking Lot Buildings
V
Chapter One
General Preventive
Requirements for Fire
Protection in Establishments
Index
Chapter One
Chapter One: General Preventive Requirements for Fire Protection in
Page Symbol
Establishments
4 1 Definitions
7 2 Classification of Buildings and Establishments
7 2.1.1 *Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of the Nature of Use
*Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of the Dangerousness
9 2.1.3
of its Contents
9 3 The Documentary Courses for Construction and Use Licenses
9 4 Design, Supervision and Execution
9 5 Site Organization Requirements for Fire Prevention:
10 5.4 *Arrival of Civil Defense Vehicles
10 5.5 * Arrival of Civil Defense Men
11 6 Structural Requirements and Building Materials:
11 6.2 *Structural Classification of Buildings
11 6.3 *Specifications of Building Materials
13 7 Control of Fire Spread:
15 7.1 *Fire Spread Prevention Units
15 7.2 *Fire Spread Prevention Barriers
16 7.3 *Hidden Gap
18 7.4 *External Spread between Fire Sections
19 7.5 *Fire Spread at the Surface Level between Sections
20 7.6 *Fire Spread in Buildings
22 8 Structural Requirements for Buildings’ Construction Elements:
22 8.1 *Structural Frame
23 8.8 *Internal Partitions
24 8.9 *Suspended (Dropped) Ceilings
24 8.10 Thermal and Acoustic Insulation Wrapping, and Decorative Wrapping
25 8.11 Fire Resistant Doors
26 8.12 Iron Structural Frame
28 8.13 Plastic Building Materials
2
Index Cont’d
Chapter One
General Requirements for Various Construction Sections (Basements,

29 9
Mezzanine, Atrium, etc.)
29 9.1 Basements
30 9.2 Atriums
30 9.3 Mezzanine
Index of Tables
Chapter One
Table
Page Table Name
No.
Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of their
9 1-1
Dangerousness
12 1-2 Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire
14 1-3 The Building’s Division into Fire Spread Prevention Units
The Minimum Fire Resistance Degree for the Construction Elements in
15 1-4
Buildings.
The Resistance Level of the Fire Spread Preventive Barriers according to
16 1-5
the Hazard Level in the Sectors that they Separate
The Required Distance between the Buildings and the Plot Boundaries
21 1-6 (the Property’s Boundaries) depending on the Building’s Height and the
Area of the Openings on the Exterior Facades.
22 1-7 The Fire Resistance Degree Required for Building Frame
24 1-8 The Flame Spread Degree for Some Building Materials
3
1 Definitions
Plot (Square):
A large area of the land, whose parts are not separated by streets
Fire Spread Preventive Units:
A separated section or sections of the building surrounded by structural barriers preventing the spread of fire for a
specific period between the fire spread preventive unit and the rest of the building or neighboring buildings
Fire Spread Preventive Barriers:
Structural elements separating between the fire spread preventive units.
Basement(s):
Part of the building located underground, or a cellar protected from bombs.
Atrium(s):
A gap through which light and air falls directly from the top until the ground floor of the building, and so it
illuminates the place and allows the air inside the building.
Mezzanine:
*It is part of the floor above the ground floor and often overlooks it.
Or * It is a floor located between two main floors.
Final Exit:
Any corridor, path or a way out of the building, the ground floor or the basement to the street or an open field (open
space), such as a yard
External Wall:
A wall overlooking the internal open space in the building or overlooking the street
Internal Wall:
A wall that divides the building from the inside into parts, whether the wall was a fixed or mobile
Ceilings:
It is part of the building’s structural frame that separates two units horizontally, i.e. a cover for a unit that forms a
ceiling to it.
Staircase:
It is means of vertical movement from one floor to another in the building.
Non-Combustible Materials:
Materials that do not burn and does not release gases or flammable vapors
Fire Prevention Wall:
A fire-resistant barrier for a specific period of time to limit the spread of fire or fumes
4
Corridor:
A joint path (hallway) extends from the rooms or sections to the lobby (open space), the staircase or the exit.
Closed End:
A corridor or point from which the escape is performed in one direction only
Emergency Lighting:
It is lighting from an electrical source separate from the main electrical current supply source, and the emergency
lighting continues to work when the power is out from the main supply source.
Evacuation Time:
It is period available for the building occupants present in the fire area to get to the safe location from the fire
hazard.
External Spread of Fire:
The spread of fire on the exterior facades of the building through the spread of the flames from the windows and
other openings or by radioactive heat from the fire scene to the neighboring buildings
Fire-Resistant Door:
A door whose frame and all its parts are designed for the passage of smoke or hot gases or flames when it is closed.
Cladding:
The open surfaces materials for room walls and ceilings, and they include foldable or removable partitions and glass
fittings.
Movement Distance:
It is the distance from the farthest point in the room or section to the exit or staircase protected from the fire.
Automatic Ventilation:
A system for disposing of smoke depends on the use of suction fans to discharge of smoke or any other gases in the
hazard area.
Natural Ventilation:
A system for disposing of smoke depends on the natural movement of "hot air" to discharge of smoke and any other
gaseous in the hazard area.
Ramp(s):
Any inclined path or walkway that connects between two levels at different heights and is included in the means of
escape (Emergency Exits).
Waste Complex:
A vertical corridor along the building for garbage disposal, equipped with appropriate openings on each floor.
Chimney:
Vertical design constructed from materials that endure the high temperatures for the disposal of smoke and gases
resulting from fuel ignition devices.
5
Dry Fire Extinguishing Water Network:
A network of vertical pipes installed in the building for fire-fighting purposes equipped with water outlets available
for firefighters and capable of discharging water through it, and they are also equipped with fire hydrants at specific
points in the building, and ends with water release valve.
Moist Fire Extinguishing Water Network:
A network of vertical pipes installed in the building for fire-fighting purposes connected to permanent compressed
water source, equipped with fire hydrants at specific points in the building.
External Fire Hydrants:
A fire-extinguishing water supply system is provided to enable firefighters to control the fire, and the supply
network of the external fire hydrants is supposed to be separated from the water supply network of the building and
neighboring buildings.
Fire Alarm Systems:
A set of devices that produce audible or visual signals that attract attention and are activated automatically or
manually when exposed to smoke or a certain level of heat
Critical Minimum Level of Radiant Flux:
A feature through which the resistance of the flooring’s finishing surfaces to the spread of flames is classified, and is
carried out through a standard test that is technically based on the assumption that the flames spread on the flooring
surfaces during actual fires depends on the level of thermal radiant flux exposed by the flooring. Therefore, the
greater is the thermal radiant flux, at which the standard test criterions are achieved, the greater is the tested
material’s ability in resisting the flames spread.
6
2 Classification of Buildings and Establishments
2.1 Classification of buildings by two methods: the first is in terms of the nature of use and the second is in terms of
the dangerousness of its contents.
2.1.1 Establishments are classified in terms of the nature of use into the following groups:
2.1.1.1 Assembly Buildings
2.1.1.2 Educational Buildings
2.1.1.3 Health and Social Care Buildings
2.1.1.4 Residential Buildings
2.1.1.5 Commercial Buildings and Public Markets
2.1.1.6 Industrial Establishments and Industrial Occupations Buildings
2.1.1.7 Warehouse Buildings and Parking Lots
2.1.1.8 Special Nature Buildings
2.1.2 Each of the groups contains several types of building with converged activities or assemblies, and we state
them as follows:
2.1.2.1 Assembly Buildings:
Buildings allocated for accommodating (50) people or more for entertainment, culture, sports or presentation
purposes, such as:
*Houses of Worship *Courts
*Lecture Halls *Meeting Halls
*Galleries *Bank Halls
*Museums and Cinemas *Major Libraries
*Sports Clubs and Covered Playgrounds
2.1.2.2 Educational Buildings:

The buildings or their parts allocated for education purposes, which accommodate (6) regular students for a period
not less than (4) hours per day and (12) hours per week, such as kindergartens and preparatory, elementary, until
secondary schools, professional and applied institutions, colleges, universities and the like.
2.1.2.3 Health and Social Care Buildings:

Buildings or their parts allocated for the health and social care purposes, whose occupants are unable to move or
detained with limited movement, and it include hospitals, elderly care homes, nurseries, social care homes for
children, mental health facilities and prisons of all categories.
7
2.1.2.4 Residential Buildings:
Buildings or its parts intended for residence or accommodation.
Residential buildings are divided according to the type of use into several categories as follows:
2.1.2.4.1 * Buildings consisting of permanent residential units for a single family (apartments), such as investment
residential buildings.
* Buildings consisting of rooms or dormitories for permanent residence, whether individually or
collectively, such students, employees and workers dormitories, soldiers’ dormitories and the like.
* Buildings consisting of rooms for temporary accommodation, whether paid or without pay, such as
hotels, motels, guest houses, furnished apartments, and the like.
* Residential buildings such as small villas and private mansions.
2.1.2.5 Commercial Buildings and Public Markets:

Buildings or their parts allocated for public service "Commercial Shops" or the users of such buildings do exceed
50 people at one time, and allocated for office use “Offices”
*Whole and Retail Sale Shops *Light Professions Services
*Shopping Centers *Sewing and Barber Shops
*Business Administration Offices *Small Banks Services
*Institution Offices *Corporate Offices
*Consulting or Engineering Offices *Real Estate Offices and the like
2.1.2.6 Industrial Establishments and Industrial Occupations Buildings:

Buildings or their parts allocated for industrial purposes in which the installation, admixture and coating
operations are conducted, and allocated for industrial professions in which the repair operations are conducted,
including:
*Dairy Factories *Furniture Factories
*Various Factories Establishments *Printing Presses
*Hazardous Chemical Materials Laboratories *Central Laundries
*Industrial Crafts Buildings *Industrial Workshops of all types
2.1.2.7 Warehouse Buildings and Parking Lots
Buildings or their parts allocated for the purpose of storage of raw materials, manufactured and semi-
manufactured products, including:
*Parking Lots *Horse Stable
*Feed Stores *Food Stores “Refrigerator”
2.1.2.8 Special Nature Buildings:

Buildings that contain various types of the previous buildings, including towers and high-rise buildings and
basements (underground buildings).
8
2.1.3 Establishments are classified in terms of the dangerousness of their contents into the following categories:
Classification of Buildings and Establishments in terms of their Dangerousness
Hazard Level Description
Buildings with weak combustion contents that are not likely to self-ignite, and therefore potential
Light Hazard hazard is represented in the state of panic and rush towards the exits during exposure to fire and
smoke from external sources.
Buildings whose contents burn at medium spread speed or can release noticeable quantity of
Medium Hazard
smoke, but do not produce toxic vapors and do not result in explosions during burning.
High Hazard Buildings whose contents burn at high speed, or produce toxic vapors or explosions.
Table No. 1-1
3 The Documentary Courses for Construction and Use Licenses

3.1 The documentary courses for licenses related to the establishments subject to the fire prevention requirements in
the buildings must be left to the organizing laws and regulations applicable in each of the GCC States.
4 Design, Supervision and Execution

4.1 The organization of the design, supervision and execution process should be left to the applicable laws and
regulations in each of the GCC States.
5 Site Organization Requirements for Fire Prevention

5.1 When submitting the sites plans with other plans for approval, the construction regulations must be complied
with, in addition to clarifying the project’s location, the important sites, the neighboring buildings and their areas
of use, with the need to mention the names of the streets surrounding sites
5.2 The building is concentrated and its distance from the neighboring buildings is determined by the approval of the
civil defense and according to its nature of use.
5.3 The easy passage of the Civil Defense vehicles and equipment to the nearest point of the building shall be taken
into consideration.
5.3.1 The concentration of multiple buildings – complexes – takes into account the following:
5.3.1 The need to provide adequate internal streets.
5.3.2 The need for easy passage of Civil Defense vehicles and equipment to the buildings.
5.3.3 The need to provide adequate entrances and exits for vehicles.
5.3.4 The need to distribute ground fire hydrants around the buildings
9
5.3.5 Twenty percent (20%) of the industrial zones area is left to be used in fire prevention work and this is
performed with the consent of the Civil Defense through the establishment of natural partitions between the
buildings of a single plot (single square) or between the plot buildings and the buildings of neighboring plots.
5.4 Arrival of Civil Defense Vehicles and Equipment

5.4.1 Availability of adequate roads and streets so that the Civil Defense vehicles and the supporting equipment will
reach the distance required for construction.
5.4.2 The suitable street or road for the passage of Civil Defense vehicles must meet the following requirements:
5.4.2.1 The road’s surface and the manhole cover must be constructed in a manner that endures the passage of the
Civil Defense vehicles of all types.
5.4.3 The required distance between the building boundaries and the nearest point that must be reached by the Civil
Defense vehicles should be calculated according to the type and size of the building as follows:
5.4.3.1The distance in the buildings, whose height is not more than two floors and do not constitute any hazard,
should not exceed 46m from any point in the ground floor of the building.
5.4.3.2 The distance in the normal buildings composed of 3 – 4 floors, whose area is more than 139 square meters
should not exceed 28m from any point in the ground floor of the building
5.4.3.3 In buildings equipped with running water hydrants network, the distance from the staircase entrance which
contains the fire hydrants should not exceed 17m.
5.4.3.4 If the building’s height exceeds four floors and its area is not more than 139 square meters or if the buildings
are for industrial use, the Civil Defense vehicles must reach a distance of 5 – 6 m along a facade of the
building. If the building’s height exceeds what has been stated here, the Civil Defense vehicles must reach a
distance of 5 – 6 m along two or more facades of the building according to the fire type and hazard therein
and the assessment of the Civil Defense.
5.5 Arrival of Civil Defense Men

5.5.1 The building design requires the building to be equipped with liquids and capabilities that enable the Civil
Defense men to enter it quite easily to perform the control and rescue work.
5.5.2 The barriers and obstacles cannot be fitted on the windows of the external facades located above the ground
floor of the building, unless they can be easily opened and under special approval from the Civil Defense.
5.5.3 When placing the fire-fighting equipment allocated for assisting the Civil Defense men, such as fire hydrants,
the discharge points in the ground floor and others, the following must be taken into account:
5.5.3.1 - The fire-fighting equipment allocated for assisting the Civil Defense men should be kept away from the fire
hazard, the glass, and the other scattered materials in the building as well as other hazards.
5.5.3.2 - The fire-fighting equipment allocated for assisting the Civil Defense men should be distinguished with a
clear and explicit signal (red color).
10
5.5.3.3 - The practical requirements and the special specifications must be taken into account in order to be
consistent with the different fire-fighting equipment.
5.5.4 If the building requires a basement (underground level floor), there should be emergency openings (entrances
and exits) for disposing the smoke or fire-fighting to assist the Civil Defense men, and the following shall be
taken into consideration
5.5.4.1 They should be in a clear location and easy to reach by the Civil Defense men.
5.5.4.2 They should be distinguished by the required guiding boards while mentioning the purpose for their
existence.
5.5.4.3 They should be covered with materials which can be easily opened or broken by the Civil Defense men when
necessary.
5.5.5 If the site area exceeds 500 square meters, another emergency entrance should be made available in the site’s
perimeter wall to facilitate the arrival of the Civil Defense men.
5.5.6 A guiding plan within a framework should be placed at the main entrance of the building, indicating all the
details related to fire prevention requirements to assist the arrival of the Civil Defense men.
5.5.7 The appropriate traffic signs should be placed to prevent parking in the parking lots and roads allocated for
parking the Civil Defense’s machinery and vehicles.
6 Structural Requirements and Building Materials

6.1 Objective: The prevention requirements in the construction field aim to provide safety of the structural frame
from hazards, so that it will lead to:
6.1.1 - Resisting the building’s collapse due to the fire.
6.1.2 - Controlling the fire inside the building within the least possible space, and preventing it from spreading to
and from the neighboring buildings.
6.2 The Structural Classification of the Building: The buildings are classified in terms of its structural frame
resistance to fire according to the Table No. 1-2.
6.3 Specifications of Building Materials

6.3.1 The properties and composition of building materials used as construction elements in the building are
determined according to the impact of fire on them.
11
Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire
Building Materials Type Building Fire Construction Description Examples
Resistance
Non-Combustible First 3-4 hours Constructed from non- Buildings constructed
combustible materials or from concrete and cement
resistant to fire with the bricks and may include
required degree. processed metal elements
in their structure, giving
the same required
resistance degree.
Second 1-2 hours Mostly constructed from Buildings constructed
non-combustible and from an iron frame, but it
originally non- fire is processed to give a
resistant materials, but specific degree of
they are processed to resistance, such as (sheds
give the required fire and hangars), in the
resistance degree. industrial and storage
areas, and prefabricated
buildings constructed
from prefabricated
structural materials or
elements with limited fire-
resistance.
Third Non-Resistant Similar to the Second Such as (sheds and
type, but with the hangars), in the industrial
elements of non- and storage areas, and
processed iron frame, they are most prevalent in
and therefore the these areas.
building is non-fire-
resistant.
Combustible Fourth 1-2 hours Constructed from non- Like the buildings
combustible and constructed from concrete
originally fire-resistant and cement bricks frame
materials, whose frame and some of the frame’s
includes combustible elements are from
materials with limited processed wood (such as
fire-resistance the ceiling frame) to give
a limited degree of fire
resistance, such as gyms,
games hall buildings and
the like
Fifth Non-Resistant Constructed from Buildings that do not fall
combustible and non- within the types (First –
fire-resistant materials or Fourth), and buildings
any unknown or that do not have a
uncalibrated materials. standard for fire resistance
Table No. 1-2
12
7 Control of Fire Spread
7.1 In order to control the fire size, confine it to the smallest possible space and prevent its spread within the same
building or its movement to neighboring buildings, preventive requirements must be provided to limit the spread
of fire.
7.1.1 The building or floor must be divided into separate sections called (Fire Spread Preventive Sections).
7.1.2 The area or size should not exceed the permitted level in the “Division of Buildings into Fire Spread
Prevention Sections” table. The design of the fire spread preventive sections must be according to the
“Division of Buildings into Fire Spread Prevention Sections” table.
Division of Buildings into Independent Fire Sections
Vertical Gap
Fire Section
Fire Section
Vertical Gap
Fire Preventive Barrier Fire-Resistant Door
Fire Section
Figure 1 – 1
Fire Sections and Fire Spread Preventive Barriers
Vertical Gap
Fire Preventive Barrier

Fire Section
Figure 1 – 2
13
The Division of Buildings into Fire Spread Prevention Sections
No. Use Maximum Level Remarks
m2 m3
1 Assemblies Buildings --- 7000
Each class is considered as an
2 Educational Buildings 2000 ---
independent secondary fire section.
Wings and clinics are considered as
3 Caretaking Buildings 2000 --- an independent secondary fire
section.
Every independent residential unit is
4 Residential Buildings 3000 --- considered as an independent
secondary fire section.
Every rented unit is considered as an
5 Commercial Shops 2000 ---
Every rented unit is considered as an
6 Offices 2000 ---
No. Use Remark
Maximum Level
Area in Area in
m2 for m2 for
Ground Basement
Floor and
Upper
Floors
Industrial Factories that manufacture, assemble
7 Establishments – 1000 500 or produce combustible or explosive
High Hazard materials or apply toxic gases.
Factories that manufacture, assemble
Occupations Shops – or produce non-combustible
8 5000 1500
Medium Hazard materials or the workshops that carry
out repairs.
Storages that store non-combustible
Storage (A) – Light
9 5000 1500 materials
Hazard
Storage (B) – Storages that store general hazardous
10 1000 500
Medium Hazard materials.
Storage (C) – High Storages that store general hazardous
11 1000 500
Hazard materials.
12 Parking Lots 5000 ---

Table No. 1-3
7.3.1 Regardless of the areas indicated in the previous Table No. 1-3 “The Division of Buildings into Fire Spread
Prevention Sections”, each of the following units is considered an independent fire section:
7.3.1.1 A floor in a multi-storey building.
7.3.1.2 Area unit of different use as compared with the nature of the building use.
7.3.1.3 Vertical gap in the buildings, such as stairway, stairwell and atrium.
7.3.1.4 Approved emergency exits in the building, such as the protected staircase hallway (space), and the corridor.
7.3.1.5 Hazard areas such as the locations used for storing easily inflammable liquids and materials.
14
7.3.1.6 The building adjacent to the borders of the neighboring building is a fire preventive unit.
7.3.1.7 If the building is used for more than one purpose, the section allocated for each purpose is considered as fire
preventive unit, regardless of its area.
7.2 Fire Spread Prevention Units

7.2.1 The fire spread preventive units should be separated from each other by construction elements called (fire
spread preventive barriers) constructed from non-combustible materials and has the fire resistance degree
specified in the table “The Minimum Fire Resistance Degree for the Construction Elements in Buildings”.
The Minimum Fire Resistance Degree for the Construction Elements in Buildings
Construction Elements Structural Classification
First Second Third Fourth Fifth
Resistance Degree in Hours
The separating distance Bearing 4 2 -- 1 --
from the neighboring
building is more than 15 Non-
meters. Bearing -- -- -- -- --
The separating distance Bearing 4 2 -- 2 --

External from the neighboring
Walls building is from 5 meters Non-
to 15 meters. Bearing 1 -- -- 1 --
The separating distance Bearing 4 2 1 2 1

from the neighboring
building is less than 5 Non-
meters. Bearing 2 2 1 2 1
Bearing Structural Frame 4 2 -- 2 1
Bearing Internal Walls 3 2 -- 2 1
Fixed Internal Partitions 1 1 -- 1 --
Vertical Gap Enclosure 2 2 1 2 --
Ceiling and Flooring Tiles 2 2 1 2 --
Roof Frame 2 1 -- 1 --
According to the following table no. 1-5 and the
Fire Preventive Barriers
conditions of Chapter One
Table No. 1-4
7.5.2.2 When the fire spread preventive units are only fire barriers, the resistance must be according to the hazard
type in sectors that they separate, according to the table “The Resistance Level of the Fire Spread Preventive
Barriers according to the Hazard Level in the Sectors that they Separate”.
15
The Resistance Level of the Fire Spread Preventive Barriers according to the Hazard Level in the
Sectors that they Separate
Numbers indicate the Resistance Degree Hazard Type in Fire Section (B)
in Hours Light Medium High
Hazard Type in Light 1 2 4
Fire Section (A) Medium 2 2 4
High 4 4 4
Table No. 1-5
7.3.2 The fire barriers should form an actual integrated barrier that prevents the penetration of fire and smoke, and
continues to cover the entire section from wall to wall, penetrating any gap behind it or fixtures therein, and
from the ground up to the roof title, according to the terms of the hidden gap.
7.4.2 Openings are allowed in the fire preventive barriers, according to the following conditions:
7.4.2.1 * If the openings are covered with doors or windows that prevent the fire spread by the required degree.
7.4.2.2 * The openings designated for passing the pipes should be restricted to meet that purpose only, while filling
any gaps or holes around the pipes with fire prevention filling materials.
7.4.2.3 * The each of the existing openings in the barriers, which have a 4-hour resistance degree, should not have
an area exceeding (12) square meters and a total width not exceeding (25%) of the total barrier length.
These measures will be doubled when the place is protected by automatic water sprinklers network
according to the approval of the Civil Defense.
Fire Preventive Barrier extending from the floor penetrating any gap until the roof tile
Roof Tile
Gap Above the Roof
Tile
Raised Floor
Figure 1-3
7.3 Hidden Gap

7.3.1 To complete the division process of the building into fire sections to prevent fire movement between them:
7.3.1.1 This division should include all hidden gaps behind, above, between or within the construction elements and
the holes should be covered.
16
7.3.2 The gap or fixture within the construction elements, such as walls, ceilings, floorings at the edges and around
the openings and when joining with the other construction elements, should be filled with fire preventive
materials, with the exception of the gap within the walls confined with insulated non-combustible materials.
7.3.3 The confined gap behind the construction elements, i.e. the gap formed above the suspended ceiling or below
the last surface of the building, or below the floor or behind the walls or the like, should be divided by fire
spread preventive barriers.
7.3.4 These gaps should be divided by fire preventive barriers as follows:
7.3.4.1 * It must be divided into spaces not exceeding (200) meters each between barriers or spaces not exceeding
(150) square meters each between the suspended ceiling and the flooring of the above floor, and (300)
square meters between the suspended ceiling and the last surface.
7.3.4.2 The following cases are excluded from the previous conditions:
7.3.4.2.1 * The gap above the suspended ceiling if it does not exceed (1) m in height and inaccessible to people.
7.3.4.2.2 * The gap above the suspended ceiling, if the ceiling was fire preventive element not susceptible to
dismantlement and installation and does not contain exposed materials whose flame spread degree on
their surface is less than (10).
7.3.4.2.3 * The gap protected with automatic fire sprinklers network.
7.3.5 The gaps and fixtures resulting from the installations process of the building elements or their integration
should be filled with fire preventive filling materials in the form of paste in the following cases:
7.3.5.1 * The gap occurring around the passage openings for the pipes, cables and the like.
* The gap occurring when the construction elements joins with each other, such as a wall joins with the wall,
the ceiling, the surface…etc.
7.3.6 The hidden gap must be closed and divided by fire and smoke spread preventive barriers according to the
following conditions:
7.3.6.1 *In the gap whose height exceeds (1) m, the barriers should have a fire resistance degree of at least half an
hour.
7.3.6.3 Other than that, the barriers could be made of gypsum boards and reinforced glass fixed on a metal frame
and the like.
7.3.6.4 The gypsum boards or reinforced glass should be fixed in a durable manner which will not be affected or
dismantled in the event of fire, and they must also be flexible so that their efficiency will not be affected by
the building’s expansion and shrinkage movement.
17
Filling Gaps and Fixtures within the Construction Elements
Fire Preventive Wall Fixture in the Wall
Along the Fire Preventive Barrier

Gap Filling
When joining the Construction Elements When joining the Construction Elements
Gap Filling
Roof Tile
Wall Wall
Gap Filling
Floor
Around Pipes and Cables

Passage Openings
Around Pipes and Cables

Passage Openings
Figure 1 – 4
Division of Hidden Gaps behind the Construction Elements
30 m
Figure 1 – 5
7.4 External Spread between Fire Sections

In order to complete the process of controlling the fire spread inside the building, the conditions preventing the
spread between the fire sections through the openings which face the external facades, the roof or the atriums should
be made available as follows:
7.4.1 As for the windows on the external facades, the distance between two adjacent windows of two different fire
sections at the same level should not be less than the following levels:
7.4.1.1 * 0.5 meters if they are on flat facade.
7.4.1.2 * 1.20 meters if they are on two facades in an angle form.
7.4.1.3 * 3 meters in case of staircase window adjacent to a window of another fire section.
18
Prevention of Fire Movement through Two Adjacent Windows in the Form of a Straight Line
External Spread between Fire Sections
50 cm Barrier if the Distance is Less than Required
Fire Section Fire Section

(B) (A)
Figure 1 – 6
Prevention of Fire Movement through Two Adjacent Windows in an Angle Form
1.2 m 1.2 m
Fire Section Fire Section Fire Section Fire Section

(B) (A) (B) (A)
Figure 1 – 7
Prevention of Vertical Fire Movement through the Facade
Fire Section Salient Area in case Fire Section 1.2 m

(A) the Distance between
the Two Windows is
Less Than Required
1.2 m
Fire Section Fire Section
(B)
Figure 1 – 8
7.4.2 The vertical distance between the windows on the external facade should not be less than the following limits:
7.4.2.1 * 1.20 m if they are on top each other.
7.4.2.2 * The distance may be less than 1.20 meters if they are separated from each other by a concrete shade that
sticks out a distance of 0 .50 meters from the facade line.
7.5 Fire Spread at the Surface Level between Fire Sections

7.5.1 The fire preventive barrier should continue to extend penetrating the last roof gap; and if the last roof is in the
form of gable, it must extend to a distance of 0.5 m above its joining point with the surface cover boards level.
19
7.5.2 In case there are differences in the height of the fire sections in the building, the ceiling of the lower part
should be as follows:
7.5.2.1 Its resistance to fire should not be less than one hour.
7.5.2.2 No openings should be permitted in the roof of the lower part within a distance of 2.5m from the external
wall of the upper section, unless this wall is solid without openings and with a fire resistance degree of at
least one hour.
Fire Movement between Two Fire Sections with Different Surface Levels
External Wall for the Higher Section

Roof Tile for a Lower Opening
Fire Section 2.5 m
Fire Section
(A)
Fire Section
(B)
Figure 1 – 9
Fire Spread at Surface Level
50 cm

Fire Section
Fire Section
Flooring
Figure 1 – 10
7.6 Fire Spread between Buildings

7.6.1 To prevent fire spread between the buildings, an adequate distance should be made available to prevent the
spread of fire between the buildings, according to the external walls requirements in terms of the relationship
with the opening area and the type of external cladding, and according to Table No. 1-6 “The Required
Distance between the Buildings and the Plot Boundaries (Property’s Boundaries)”; taking into consideration
the details of Table No. 1- 4 “The Minimum Fire Resistance Degree for the Construction Elements in
Buildings” and the Table No. 1-5 “The Resistance Level of the Fire Spread Preventive Barriers”.
20
Fire Spread between Buildings
A- Multi-Purpose Building
B- Areas where the Fire may Spread Quickly.
C- Hazardous Operations
D- Boilers or Paints Room
E- Warehouses
F- Storage with Special Hazard
G- Valuable Materials and Equipment
Figure 1 – 11
Internal Partitions
A- Fire Resistant Door

B-Fire Resistant Separating Wall
C-Fire Movement Prevention Unit
Figure 1 – 12
The Required Distance between the Buildings and the Plot Boundaries (the Property’s Boundaries)
depending on the Building’s Height and the Area of the Openings on the Exterior Facades.
Area of the Openings in relation to the Area of the Building’s Height in Meters
Facade 8 8 – 24 24 and
above
Distance in Meters
Zero No Requirements
Less than 50% 3 5 10
More than 50% 3 7.5 15
100% 3 7.5 15
Table No. 1-6
21
8 Structural Requirements for Buildings’ Construction Elements
The building frame with all its elements such as the walls, roofs, bridges, columns and floorings… etc. is established
from a non-combustible material with a fire resistance degree suitable with the nature of use, in accordance with fire
resistance degree of building frame indicated in Table No. 1-7.
The Fire Resistance Degree Required for Building Frame

Frame Elements Multi-Storey Residential and Industrial Buildings and
Commercial Buildings Warehouses
Columns, Bridges, and Roof Tiles 2 Hours 4 Hours
External Walls Separating from the
Neighboring Buildings or the
4 Hours 4 Hours
Hazardous Sections of the
Building
Internal Walls or Internal
2 Hours 4 Hours
Partitions.
Separating walls of the way out
(including the stairway), the lift
well, the atrium and the vertical
and horizontal service --------------- ---------------
waterway...etc.
Note: The fire resistance degree of columns and bridges can be increased at the discretion of the Civil Defense
in case the building is used for more than one purpose; i.e. the application of the resistance degree for the more
hazardous use.
Table No. 1-7
8.2 If some frame elements are made of iron, they should be wrapped by a non-combustible material with a fire
impact resistance consistent with the required degree for the frame itself.
8.3 If the roof frame is made of iron gable and based on iron columns, the external walls should be totally separated
from the columns; and in such case the connecting columns and bridges will be used so that the roof frame will
not be affected by the fire heat.
8.4 A wall is constructed around each plot forming a fire preventive separating wall as prescribed in the control of
fire spread according to the nature of use of the required building and the use of neighboring buildings or as
recommended by the Civil Defense.
8.5 If the building’s external wall is not the separating wall of the neighboring building and is at a distance not less
than 3 meters, it is preferred not to have any openings therein, unless it is covered by a fire resistance door with a
resistance degree similar to the required degree for the wall itself.
8.6 The building is divided into fire preventive units separated from each other by fire preventive walls or roofs,
which meet the specifications of frame elements, according to what has been stated in “Control of Fire Spread”.
8.7 If the building is located on the boundaries of the parallel plot (square) to the neighboring plots (squares), this
building must have an external wall which forms a separating wall from the buildings in the parallel plots
(squares) as indicated in the “Control of Fire Spread”.
22
8.8 Classification of Internal Finishing Materials Types
8.8.1 The internal partitions, whether the fixed or mobile type, are constructed from non-combustible materials with
a fire resistance degree suitable to the nature of use; provided that they are not less than one hour.
8.8.2 The flame spread degree on the material surface must not be less than (zero), according to the approved
international standards.
8.8.3 The internal partitions (whether fixed or mobile) can be used from combustible materials in certain cases
determined at the discretion of the Civil Defense and according to the following conditions:
8.8.3.1 They should not be at location where fire is likely to occur or crowds are present; or if they form part of the
escape path.
8.8.3.2 These materials should be placed in specific and isolated locations.
8.8.3.3 Their use should not contradict with the applicable preventive requirements of the building use.
8.8.3.4 The flame spread resistance degree on the surface should not be less than (20), in accordance with the
approved international standards.
The Flame Spread Degree for Some Building Materials

Material Flame Spread Degree
Noise reducing fiberglass 10 – 15 Degrees

Roofs
Noise reducing metal plates 10 – 25 Degrees
Aluminum plates with furnace paint on one side 5 – 10 Degrees
Cement asbestos plates Zero

Walls
Cement or pottery bricks Zero
Gypsum plates covered by (cardboards) on both

10 – 25 Degrees
sides
Carpets or rugs 10 – 600 Degrees
Concrete bedding, tile or marble Zero

Floorings
Flooring Linoleum 190 – 300 Degrees
Vinyl flooring tiles reinforced with asbestos 10 – 5 Degrees
Note: A complete list of fire spread degrees in building materials can be obtained by referring to building
materials directory published by the American Quality Laboratories.
(Building Materials Directory) published by Underwriters, Inc. Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062
Table No. 1-8
23
Suspended Ceilings
Suspended Ceiling with

an Area not exceeding
28 Square Meters
5 Meters
5 Meters
Figure 1 – 13
8.9 Suspended Ceilings

8.9.1 The ceilings (boards and frame) should be constructed from a non-combustible material.
8.9.2 The suspended ceilings may be constructed from a combustible material in certain cases determined at the
discretion of the Civil Defense and taking into account the following conditions:
escape path.
8.9.2.2 The total area should not exceed twenty eight square meters.
8.9.2.3 The ceiling should be separated from the neighboring ceilings by raising its surrounding walls to the original
ceiling.
8.9.2.4 Their construction method should not contradict with the applicable preventive requirements of the building
use.
8.10 Thermal and Acoustic Insulation Wrapping, and Decorative Wrapping

(Decoration)
8.10.1 The materials used for decorative and beautification purposes or thermal or acoustic insulation should be fire
resistant with a flame spread degree not less than zero.
8.10.2 In case of using combustible materials, it should be taken into account to process such materials chemically
or wrap them with fire retardant paint, so that they become a flame spread resistant surface for a period not
less than one hour.
8.10.3 Wood may be used for floor tiling (parquet) in certain cases determined at the discretion of the Civil Defense
and taking into account the following conditions:
8.10.3.1 The wood should be of the hard wood type.
24
8.10.3.2 It should be used at locations where there is no hazard of fire occurrence and no crowds are present
approved by the Civil Defense.
8.10.4 Combustible materials may be used for wrapping the walls in certain cases determined at the discretion of the
Civil Defense and taking into account the following conditions:
escape path.
8.10.4.2 The materials used should be fire resistant with a flame spread degree not less than zero; and in case of
using combustible materials, it should be taken into account to process such materials chemically or wrap
them with fire retardant paint, so that they become a flame spread resistant surface for a period not less than
one hour; provided that they are above the floor level by 76 cm and fixed directly on the walls surface
without a gap behind them.
8.11 Fire Resistant Doors

8.11.1 All openings existing in fire resistant separating walls are equipped with a fire resistant closing method such
as doors and windows… etc. and with a fire resistant degree equivalent to the required degree for the wall
itself.
8.11.2 The door frame resistance should be of the same resistance degree required for the door itself.
8.11.3 The frame is constructed from a non-combustible material, if the required resistance degree for the door is 4
hours or more, or if the purpose of its use is to separate sections connected with sections classified as fire
hazardous.
8.11.4 If the required resistance degree is one hour or less and was used at a normal location where there is no fire
hazard, the frame can be constructed from combustible material (such as wood); provided that it is processed
by one of the following methods:
8.11.4.1 * It should be wrapped or lined with a non-combustible material or painted with fire retardant material.
8.11.4.2 * It should be made of hardwood such as Beech wood, without any gaps or holes therein; provided that it
has the required resistance degree.
8.11.5 Glass plates fixed on the windows and doors should be of the required fire resistance degree equivalent to the
door itself.
8.11.6 The fire resistant door should be equipped with automatic closure means (Door Closer); and if it is necessary
to keep the door open, it should be equipped with a method that closes it automatically when fire occurs
through thermal separation (fusible link) or through an alarm system.
8.11.7 A simple manual closing method should be provided in addition to the automatic closure means.
8.11.8 The international specifications should apply in case local specifications are not available in order to access
the fire resistance degree of the doors.
8.11.9 The fire retardant materials should be approved by the Civil Defense.
25
8.11.10 When the conditions allow the materials used in the wrapping to be less than (10) degrees, they must be
according to the following specifications:
8.11.10.1 * Selection of combustion intensity: 1:20
8.11.10.2 * Selection of combustion easiness: Hard combustible materials
8.11.10.3 * Selection of smoke density: Not exceeding (450) and does not produce toxic gases.
8.11.11 If the materials used in wrapping are from wood or materials whose degree is less than (zero), they should
be fixed directly on the wall or on beams fixed directly on the wall with a thickness not exceeding (2 cm)
and width of (5 cm); provided that the gaps between the beams are filled with non-combustible materials.
8.11.12In case that the wrapping materials are fitted on a frame far from the wall or ceiling; as in the suspended
ceilings, the surface of the fitted plates from both sides should be of the required degree and fixed on a frame
made from non-combustible materials. The back gap is divided as stated in Paragraph 7.3.3 “all confined
gaps behind the construction elements should be divided by fire spread preventive barriers”.
8.12 Iron Structural Frame

8.12.1 If the construction elements in the building are made from iron, they should be processed to provide the
required resistance degree, in order to protect it from collapse because of the fire heat.
8.12.2 The protection process of iron construction elements is divided in terms of application into the following
methods:
Dipping the iron element within a concrete cast, or construction cement or pottery bricks and the dipping
protection process should be according to the following conditions:
8.12.2.1 Dipping: Dipping the columns by wrapping them with reinforced concrete cast, construction cement or
pottery bricks or a layer of cement facing on a base of mesh wire. The details of the wrapping’s thickness
must be approved by the Civil Defense after considering the required resistance degree.
26
Dipping
Concrete Cast
Iron Element
Figure 1 – 14
8.12.2.2 Wrapping: The iron element should be wrapped with endorsed plates resistant to fire in the form of a box.
The wrapping protection process should be according to the following conditions:
It is not allowed to pass any services through the gap behind iron elements protection plates.
When the width of the protection plates exceeds (60) cm, installation must be done on a solid background
of sheets to protect them from breaking.
Iron Element
Wrapping
Endorsed Plates Resistant to

Fire in the form of a Box
Figure 1 – 15
8.12.2.3 Facing: Facing the iron element with a layer of endorsed material resistant to fire in the form of a paste,
which should be applied through the spraying or facing method. The facing protection process should be
according to the following conditions:
27
Facing
A paste made of an endorsed fire-resistant material sprayed or painted on iron frames
Figure 1 – 16
8.12.2.3.1 The protection process through the facing method should be according to the manufacturer requirements
and approved by the Civil Defense; provided that it takes into consideration the calculation of the
thickness, the application method and conditions, the mixing ratio, the climatic conditions and their
relation to the application and storage, and the material’s shelf life.
8.12.2.3.2 Preparation of the iron element i.e. cleaning, base painting…etc.
8.12.2.3.4 The iron construction elements protection process should be according to the three mentioned methods in
accordance with the recognized engineering principles and the specifications of the specialized authorities
8.13 Plastic Building Materials

8.13.1 In order to control the fire hazard arising from the use of plastic materials which have been increasingly used
in the construction or finishing of buildings, these materials should be subject to the controls, which reduce
their hazard according to these conditions. The plastic materials are divided into the following types:
8.13.1.1 First type / Porous Plastic Materials: They are divided in terms of composition into two main types:
8.13.1.1.1 Solid Plates: such as polystyrene, polyurethane and Etho Thanyaths which are used in the insulation,
partitions formation and surface cover….etc.
8.13.1.1.2 Flexible Plates: Sponge type such as polythene which is used in decoration works and others.
8.13.1.2 Fire retardant material should be added to the porous plastic materials manufacturing mixture to be used in
the buildings, so that the characteristics of foam plastic materials will be as follows:
8.13.2.1.1 *Not easy to burn.
8.13.2.2.1 * Flame spread degree exceeds (10).
8.13.2.3.1 * Smoke density does not exceed (450).
8.13.2.4.1 * Smoke toxicity does not exceed that in the normal wood.
8.13.2.1 Second Type / Solid Plastic Materials: used in the form of colored or transparent plates to cover light holes,
dome covers and shades roofs…etc.
28
8.13.2 Plastic Materials as Thermal Insulators in Buildings
8.13.2.1 The plastic materials are permitted to be used according to the following conditions:
8.13.2.1.1 A Filler with a thickness not exceeding (10) cm between two layers of bricks, where the thickness of each
of them does not exceed (5) cm; provided that the gap is filled.
8.13.2.1.2 It should be dipped within a concrete cast where the thickness of its cover should not be less than (5) cm
in case being used as part of construction elements components such as internal partitions or surface
cover.
8.13.2.1.3 It is permitted to use filler in non-fire preventive doors; provided that its thickness should not exceed (5)
cm and the flame spread degree should not exceed (10) degrees.
8.13.2.2 They are permitted to be used inside the buildings whether for thermal insulation or as filler in the internal
partitions according to the following conditions:
8.13.2.2.1 The floor’s area should not exceed (200 square meters) and the area of the partitions should not be more
than (100 square meters). The floor should be divided into fire sections, where each section must not
exceed (200 square meters) if the floor area is more than that.
8.13.2.2.2 Its thickness should not exceed 5 cm.
General Requirements for Various Construction Sections (Basements, Mezzanine,

9
Atrium, etc.)
9.1 Basements: With regard to the basements, the conditions of fire prevention and safety of individuals should be
taken into account, according to the nature of use; while taking into consideration the following conditions:
9.1.1 Sufficient ventilation and natural or artificial lighting must be provided in the basements.
9.1.2 All necessary precautions should be taken to prevent water leakage to the basement and the basements
floorings should be provided with the required means for water disposal in case the ground basement level is
the same as the level of the nearby water sources.
9.1.3 The conditions concerning staircase (stairs) and basements exits should be applied according to the prescribed
clauses in the Means of Escape and Emergency Exits Chapter. The number of exists for each basement should
not be less than two exits if its area is more than 150 square meters. The further point in the basement from the
exit should not be more than 15 m; provided that one exit should lead directly outside.
9.1.4 If the exit of any basement leads to an entrance to the main stairs of the building. All necessary precautions
should be taken in the ground floor, so that the basement stairs will lead directly outside without continuation
to reach the upper floors.
9.1.5 Sufficient natural ventilation should be provided to the basement in accordance with the nature of use, by using
windows on the external wall of the building, and they should be covered with thick mesh barrier if it can be
opened or with reinforced glass if it is closed.
29
9.1.6 If sufficient natural ventilation windows were not available, other natural means should be provided for the
disposal of smoke and other gases from the basement if a fire occurs according to the following:
9.1.6.1 * Creation of openings on top of the basement’s external wall (or on its ceiling) facing the pavement or the
open areas of the ground floor such as the corridors and others, measuring (90x90cm) to be covered with
glass bricks or any other materials that can be easily opened or broken by the Civil Defense when necessary
during emergency situations.
9.1.6.2 * Development of a chimney-style system for the smoke disposal and its suction from the basement if fire
occurs; this is performed by providing fresh air inlets near the basement floor and a suction pipe in the
ceiling to be connected with openings in the upper floors and covered as mentioned in previous paragraph.
9.1.6.3 * The Civil Defense may accept and approve any other appropriate means for smoke suction proposed by the
design engineer; provided that it meets the required purpose.
9.1.7 The following requirements should be made available in the basements’ ventilation openings:
9.1.7.1 They should be in a clear position that can be easily accessed by the Civil Defense men.
9.1.7.2 They should be distinguished with the necessary sign boards indicating the purpose of their existence.
9.1.7.3 They should be covered with materials that can be easily opened or broken by the Civil Defense men when
necessary.
9.2 Atriums: With regard to the atriums, the conditions of fire prevention and safety of individuals should be taken
into account, according to the nature of use; while taking into consideration the following conditions:
9.2.1 The windows facing the atrium should be made of the fire resistant type especially if they are at a location
where fire hazard exists, such as kitchens, toilets and others; or the conditions prescribed in the “Control of
Fire Spread” should be applied.
9.2.2 If the atrium is used as an outlet for the passage of the chimneys, all the openings facing it should be covered
with automatic closing fire resistant doors; and this is carried out by a prior approval from the Civil Defense.
9.2.3 The upper opening of the atrium should be exposed and its edge must be surrounded by a wall of a height not
less than 1.5 m from the surface level to form a fall preventive barrier.
9.2.4 The atrium should not be used for exit during emergencies without the approval of the Civil Defense.
9.2.5 The atrium should not be used for wastes collection purposes or its usage as a room or store for the first floor
or for any other purpose not designated for it.
9.3 Mezzanine: With regard to the Mezzanine, the conditions of fire prevention and safety of individuals should be
taken into account, according to the nature of use; while taking into consideration the following conditions:
9.3.1 The Mezzanine must not occupy 100% of the commercial shop area unless after obtaining the approval of the
Civil Defense and it requires the following:
9.3.1.1 It should have an open facade from the road side.
9.3.1.2 It should have sufficient exits; provided that one of these exits leads outside.
9.3.1.3 It should not pose a threat to the individuals’ safety.
30
9.3.2 The Mezzanine, which is not connected to the ground floor (commercial shop), is considered as a normal
separate floor in the multi-storey buildings.
Explanatory Drawing of the

Mezzanine
Mezzanine
Shop Open Facade from
the Road Side
Shop
Road
Commercial Complex
Figure 1 – 17
31
Chapter Two
General Requirements for
Fire-Fighting Systems and
Alarm Systems
Index
Chapter Two
Chapter Two: General Requirements for Fire-Fighting Systems and
Page Symbol
Alarm Systems
35 1 Objective
35 2 Application Fields
35 3 Design Requirements
35 4 Licensing Requirements
35 5 Maintenance Requirements
35 6 Training Requirements
35 7 Classification of Fire-Fighting Systems and Equipment
36 7.1 Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
36 7.1.1.1 *Manual Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2 **Types of Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2.1 **Water Fire Extinguishers
36 7.2.2 **Foam Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.3 **Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.4 **Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
37 7.2.5 **Vaporizing-Liquid Fire Extinguishers
37 7.3 How to Select the Suitable Fire Extinguishers
37 7.4 Types of Fire:
37 7.4.1 *Fire Type (A)
37 7.4.2 *Fire Type (B)
38 7.4.3 *Fire Type (C)
38 7.4.4 *Fire Type (D)
38 7.5 General Aspects in the Distribution of Manual Fire Extinguishers
39 7.6 Distribution of Manual Fire-Fighting Extinguishers
33
Index Cont’d
Chapter Two
Chapter Two Cont’d: General Requirements for Fire-Fighting
Page Symbol
Systems and Alarm Systems
47 7.7 Fixed Fire-Fighting Equipment:
47 7.7.1 *Coiled Rubber Hoses
47 7.7.2 *Dry Vertical Pipes
47 7.7.3 *Moist Vertical Pipes
48 7.7.4 *Foam Discharge Network
48 7.7.5 *External Fire Hydrants
49 7.8 Automatic Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment:
49 7.8.1 *Automatic Fire Extinguishing Water Sprinklers System
49 7.8.2 *Types of Automatic Fire Extinguishing Water Sprinklers Systems
50 7.8.3 **Halon System
50 7.8.4 **Carbon Dioxide (CO2) System
51 7.8.5 **Dry Chemical Powder System
52 7.8.6 **Foam and Water System
52 7.8.7 Automatic Fixed Unit (Modeler Extinguisher)
53 7.9 *Fire Alarm Systems
53 7.9.1 *Manual Alarm System
53 7.9.2 *Automatic Alarm System
Index of Tables
Chapter Two
Table
Page Table Name
No.
41 2-1 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (A)
42 – 45 2-2 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (B)
46 2-3 The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (C)
34
Chapter Two
1 Objective
The buildings and the establishments must be provided with alarm, fire-fighting, and prevention systems in order to
protect the buildings and their occupants from fire hazards, by providing early warning to evacuate the building and
fight the fire in a preliminary form by trained individuals or automatic equipment, followed by calling the Civil
Defense teams for actual fire-fighting and rescue if necessary.
2 Application Fields
All buildings, establishments and shops subject to the Civil Defense license should be equipped with the suitable
fire-fighting, alarm and preventive equipment according to these conditions.
3 Design Requirements
The fire-fighting, alarm and prevention systems should be designed and implemented according to the requirements
of Part Two (the Engineering Specifications of the Alarm and Fire-fighting Systems).
4 Licensing Requirements
Civil Defense requirements must be applied in each country.
5 Maintenance Requirements
The fire-fighting and alarm systems should be provided with a regular periodical maintenance service from
specialized authority or recognized contractor in accordance with the requirements of Part Two.
6 Training Requirements
The building’s occupants should be trained on operating, using and inspecting the fire-fighting and alarm systems.
7 Classification of Fire-Fighting Systems and Equipment

The fire-fighting and alarm systems and equipment are divided into the following main types:
A- Manual, fixed and automatic fire-fighting systems and equipment.
B- Manual and automatic fire alarm systems.
35
7.1 Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
They are mobile manual equipment “preliminary fire-fighting” which are used for fire-fighting at its initial stages by
normal people present in the building. This equipment includes the following:
(a) Various types of manual fire extinguishers
(b) Manual water pumps.
(c) Sand and water containers.
(d) Special fire-resistant blankets.
7.1.1.1 Manual Fire Extinguishers
Manual extinguishers are light manual means for extinguishing the fire at its initial stages and considered as one of
the preliminary fire-fighting equipment.
7.1.1.2 Manual extinguishers are required in any building subject to the approval of the Civil Defense in accordance
with the fire prevention requirements in the buildings or any location where an activity is performed that requires the
approval of the Civil Defense.
7.1.1.3 The manual extinguishers should be of a type approved by an official license from the Civil Defense.
7.1.1.4 The owner of the building or the site should maintain the manual extinguishers in a proper condition to
remain usable when necessary, and that is by making the required preparations to conduct periodical testing,
inspection and maintenance by the authorized agent or by any specialized technical authority approved by the Civil
Defense, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7.1.1.5 The periodical inspection and testing should be in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer and
the Civil Defense.
7.2 Types of Fire Extinguishers: The Manual Extinguishers are divided into
Various Types according to the Extinguishing Material Type:
7.2.1 Water Extinguishers: The extinguishers which contain water as a firefighting material and are divided into
two types:
Water Extinguishers by Gas Pressure: It is a cylinder filled with water through normal pressure, containing a
small cylinder (cartridge) pressed by carbon dioxide gas installed therein; and when operated, a hole is made in
the upper part of the cylinder so that the pressed gas will be driven out pushing the water powerfully through the
opening or the hose discharge.
7.2.1.1 Water Extinguishers Operating by Preserved Pressure: A cylinder, where two thirds of it is filled with water
and the rest with normal air or pressurized nitrogen gas; and when operated, the valve is opened and the water is
driven out powerfully by the preserved pressure.
7.2.2 Foam Extinguishers: The extinguishers that provide liquid foam as a fire extinguishing material and it is
divided into two types:
7.2.2.1 Chemical Foam Extinguishers: The type that produces foam by chemical reaction and pushes foam through
the pressure resulting from the reaction.
36
7.2.2.2 Mechanical Foam Extinguishers: The type that produce the foam mechanically through mixing the foam
materials liquid with water and air and pushes them out through the pressurized carbon dioxide gas inside the small
cylinder (cartridge).
7.2.3 Carbon Dioxide Gas Extinguishers: The extinguishers which contain carbon dioxide gas as an extinguishing
material. In principle, they are regarded as a single type with different sizes only, and the gas is kept in liquid
condition under pressure, and when operated, the gas is driven out by opening the control valve on the upper part of
the cylinder.
7.2.4 Dry Powder Extinguishers: The extinguishers that provide dry chemical powder as an extinguishing material
and they are divided into two types with regard to the operation method.
7.2.4.1 Extinguishers Operating through Gas Pressure: A type that pushes the powder by the pressure of carbon
dioxide preserved in a small cylinder "cartridge" under pressure.
7.2.4.2 Extinguishers operating through preserved pressure: A type that pushes the powder by the nitrogen gas
pressure in the cylinder with the powder. The powder, in terms of its chemical composition includes several types,
the most important of which are the following:
(a) The powder whose composition is dominated by sodium bicarbonate.
(b) The powder whose composition is dominated by potassium bicarbonate.
(c) Multi-purpose powder
(d) There are some types of power allocated for certain types of metal fire and are used only for special cases.
7.2.5 Vaporizing-Liquid Fire Extinguishers (B.C.F.S): The extinguishers that provide different types of chemical
liquids as a fire extinguishing material. These liquids on impact with the fire heat transform into dense heavy vapors
which stop the fire’s chemical reaction chain. This type of extinguishers will be prohibited internationally soon due
to its impact on the environment.
7.2.6 How to Select the Suitable Fire Extinguishers: The fire is divided into (4) main types as mentioned below with
the suitable manual extinguishers for them. (For easy review, see the tables from 2-1 to 2-3).
7.4 Types of Fire and the Suitable Extinguishers for fighting them
7.4.1 Fire Type (A) includes normal solid materials of carbon origin such as papers, wood and fabric…etc. The
suitable extinguishers for this type are water extinguishers because of the availability of the cooling property in
water and the easiness of water leakage into the pores of the materials.
7.4.2 Fire Type (B) includes flammable liquids, and petroleum and chemical materials.
7.4.2.1 Foam extinguishers: As the foam liquid floats on the surface of the burning liquid forming a cover that
blocks off oxygen from the surface of the burning liquid, and the foam is distinguished by remaining for a long time
on the liquid surface which helps in preventing the return of ignition. It should be noted that the foam is good
conductor of electricity.
7.4.2.3 Carbon Dioxide Gas Extinguishers: Like chemical powder extinguishers with the difference that Carbon
Dioxide gas has no harmful impact on the assets like other types of extinguishers such as foam and powder
extinguishers and this material is also a bad conductor of electricity.
37
7.4.2.4 Vaporizing Liquid Extinguishers: Since their containers are small, they are used in small fire or for engines
which operate by liquid fuel and they are not electricity conductor materials
7.4.3 Fire Type (C): They are the fires that occur in electrical fittings, and carbon dioxide and dry powder or
vaporizing liquid extinguishers are used to extinguish it. It is prohibited to use water or foam as they are conductors
of electricity.
7.4.4 Fire Type (D): The type of fire that occurs in metals such as magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium etc. and
uses a special type of dry powder. There are some metals which require special powder; therefore, the Director
General of Civil Defense should be consulted in this regard and the prescribed instructions stated on the
extinguishers by the manufacturer should be followed. Noting that a type of dry powder has been developed to be
used for fighting metals fire, so that it becomes paste upon contacting with the burning surface, and it has the
commercial name (Purplek).
Types of Fire
Solid Materials: Papers, Liquid Fuels: Petrol, Oil, Combustible Gases: All Fires of Metal Origin
Robber, Plastic, Fabric Grease, Alcohol, Paints propane , Methane,
acetylene ,Oxygen, Butane
Figure 2-1
7.5 General Aspects in the Distribution of Manual Fire Extinguishers
In addition to what has been mentioned in the previous clauses and the attached table, the following aspects should
be taken into account when on selecting the suitable type of manual extinguishers:
7.5.1 The extinguishers at the site should be operated by a single manner, in order to avoid any confusion when
using these extinguishers in the event of fire.
7.5.2 At the sites that have an upper location or require control of the discharge angle, the extinguishers with hoses
are used.
7.5.3 A suitable type of extinguisher should be selected for the site in terms of the discharge distance or type
(current or drizzle).
7.5.4 Selection of a reasonable lightweight type suitable for those who use it.
7.5.5 It is always best to select the types which are easy to use and maintain, which are not complicated.
38
7.6 Distribution of Manual Fire-Fighting Extinguishers
7.6.1 Generally unless stated otherwise, the extinguishers should be distributed in suitable locations not far away
from each other by more than (20) m; and the number of extinguishers should be determined by one extinguisher for
each 200 square meters or two extinguishers for each floor with regard to water extinguishers. As for the
combustible liquids extinguishers, they should be determined in accordance with the surface area of the combustible
liquids required to be organized as indicated in the attached table. Other than that, the extinguishers should be
distributed in the suitable locations as recommended by the Civil Defense and the following requirements should be
taken into account in general:
The extinguishers should be kept in a store or a fixture in the wall with a door to protect it from climatic conditions
and manipulation. They may also be hanged openly on the wall in some cases which are approved by the General
Directorate of Civil Defense; as there is no fear of the mentioned caveats.
7.6.2 The openly hanged extinguishers on the wall should be fixed by hanging it on a hook with a height of (1) m
from the base of the extinguishers to the ground surface.
The required sign boards should be installed to indicate the location of the extinguishers along with the necessary
instructions of use and the caveats that should be warned about.
Figure 2-2
7.6.3 The extinguishers location should be selected in a suitable place that can be easily assessed.
7.6.3.1 They should be as close as possible to the exits or the staircase.
7.6.3.2 They should not be far away than each other by more than 20m.
7.6.3.3 They should be at a height of (1) m from the ground level.
39
Installation of a fire extinguisher inside a fixture in the
wall at a height of 1 m
Fire Extinguisher
1m
Figure 2-3
7.6.4 Attention must be given to the climate conditions of the location in terms of heat, moisture, cooling, corrosion,
and others, and their impact on the extinguishers and their contents.
7.6.5 The number of required extinguishers are determined by one water extinguisher with a capacity of two gallons
or their equivalent for each (2000 m2); provided that the number should not be less than one extinguisher for each
floor with regard to normal fire type (A), according to Table No. 1-1.
7.6.6 The number of extinguishers required for fire type (B) from the combustible liquids, chemical, and petroleum
materials in accordance with Table No. 2-2.
40
The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (A)
Fire Type Suitable Extinguishers Remarks Extingui Extinguisher Extinguisher Approximate Number of
sher Capacity Discharge Total Weight Extinguishers
Type Distance Required for each
100 Floor
Meters
Fire Type (A): Water: Water is Pressuriz 9 Liters 10 m 10-18 kg. 1 2
Normal solid The effect of the extinguishing good ed 2 Gallons 30 ft. 33-40 pounds
materials like material on the fire of the normal conductor of water and
wood, paper, solid materials (such wood, paper, electricity gas
fabric… etc. fabric…etc.) depends on the and therefore
cooling property. Water is should not be
characterized with better cooling used to put
properties compared with other out
extinguishing materials. Therefore electrical
it is preferred to be used in fires
fighting the normal solid materials
fire, because if these materials are
not sufficiently cooled, they will
Water 1 2
ignite again. In addition, the water
Preserved
penetrates quickly to the depth of
by
the fire.
pressure
Table No. 2-1
41
The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (B)
Fire Type Suitable Extinguishers Remarks Extinguish Extinguishe Approximate Extinguis Coverag
er Type r Capacity Total Weight her e Area
Discharge per
Distance Extingui
sher
Fire Type (B): (1) Foam: It is difficult to form Automatic 9 Liters 8 m2 15-18 kg. 15 m2
Combustible Fires are put out by the foam a cover of foam on a Foam – 2 Gallons 23 ft. 33-40 5 ft.
Liquids, which forms a cover over the hot liquid and it Mechanical pounds
Petroleum and burning liquid. Such cover becomes impossible Foam
Chemical remains after its formation for a if the liquid is
Materials period of time sufficient to cool running on a vertical
the liquid and prevent it from surface. The liquids
reigniting. that flow on tiles or
Therefore, foam extinguisher is horizontal surfaces
particularly suitable for fighting may extend to a
liquid fires that have been ignited greater area than the
for a period of time or have extinguisher’s
become hot as a result of the capacity, and there
Chemical 1 2
processes that they have are some liquids like
Foam -
undergone, such as fires of quench alcohol has the
Chemical
tanks, oil heaters, linseed heaters power to destroy the
Foam
and varnish boilers. cover formed by the
mobile normal
extinguisher;
making it
ineffective. In
addition, the foam is
a good conductor of
electricity and
should not be used
for fighting
electrical fires.
Table 2-2
42
The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (B) (Cont’d)
Fire Type Suitable Extinguishers Remarks Extinguish Extinguishe Approximate Discharge Coverag
er Type r Capacity Total Weight Distance e Area
per
Extingui
sher
Fire Type (B): (2) Dry Powder: The properties of the Dry 2 kg. 4 kg. 3m 1 m2
Combustible The dry powder is the best type of dry powder are powder 4 - 5 pounds 10 pounds 10 ft. 10 ft2
Liquids such extinguishers used for fighting limited and cannot extinguishe
Petroleum and combustible liquids fires; as the prevent the re- r 3 kg. 9 kg. 5m 11.5 m2
Chemical powder puts out the spread of the ignition after of various 7 pounds 18 pounds 15 ft. 15 ft2
Materials and flames on the liquid surface stopping the types
liquids. quickly. It is preferred to be discharge of foam. 9 kg. 18 kg. 7m 4 m2
specifically used instead of foam Its effect is also 20 pounds 20pounds 20 ft. 40 ft2
in the cases where the fire could weaker than the
extend to the neighboring foam in case of
materials before the foam can be liquid fires inside
formed on them. Furthermore, the the tanks as the
effect of other extinguishers of liquids are
similar size in cases of big fires ( considerably heated
); in addition, the dry powder is due to their burning
not a good conductor of electricity for some time or
and can be used safely to fight because of the
electrical fires. processes that they
have undergone.
Table 2-2 (Cont’d)
43
Discharge per
Distance Extingui
sher
Fire Type (B): (3) Carbon Dioxide: The carbon dioxide Carbon 6 kg. 1 kg. 1.5 m -
Combustible Carbon dioxide puts out the fire cooling properties Dioxide 13 pounds 2.5 pounds 4 ft. --
Liquids such flames on the liquid surface a lot are limited and do Extinguish
Petroleum and quicker than the foam and it is not prevent re- er 16 kg. 3 kg. 3m 1.5 m2
Chemical considered better in fighting fires ignition after 23 pounds 7 pounds 7 ft. 5 ft2
Materials and that may spread to the surrounding stopping the
liquids. materials before forming a discharge. Its effect 19-21 kg. 4 kg. 1 m2
complete foam cover over the is also weaker than 38-42 10 pounds 10 ft2
burning liquid surface. the foam effect in pounds
case of burning
The carbon dioxide extinguisher liquids inside the
can be used for putting out small tanks as these
fires which include flowing liquids are
liquids on horizontal surfaces or considerably heated
their contamination by dry powder due to their burning
or foam. for some time.
Carbon dioxide can also be used

to fight the hazards of the dyeing
and polishing machine, the
kitchens and laboratories
micro tools
Table 2-2 (Cont’d)
44
Discharge per
Distance Extingui
sher
Fire Type (B): (4) Vaporizing Liquids: They should not be Vaporizing ½ Liter 2 kg. 7m 1.3 m2
Combustible They can quickly put out fire used or kept in liquids 1/8 Gallon 6 pounds 20 ft.
Liquids such flames on a burning liquid surface closed areas or any extinguishe
Petroleum and and are specifically suitable for locations where it is r
Chemical fighting very small fires; as the likely to inhale the (C.B.M. -
Materials and extinguishers using these liquids vapors and gases B.C.
liquids. are relatively small in size and arising from the F)
they are used mainly for fighting burning when
fire of engines operated by petrol subjected to heat. It
and oil, and they are not good is recommended not
conductors of electricity. to use methyl
bromide as it is very
toxic.
Table No. 2-2 (Cont’d)
45
The Selection and Distribution Method of Fire Extinguishers Type (C & D)
Fire Type Suitable Extinguisher Remarks
Carbon Dioxide, Dry Powder and Vaporizing Liquids:
These materials are considered the best for fighting
electrical fires. Water and foam extinguishers should not
be used for this purpose to avoid electric shocks (water
Fire Type (C): and foam are good conductors of electricity), with the
Electrical or Carbon Dioxide, Dry Powder and exception of cases where it is possible to disconnect the
Electronic Vaporizing Liquids electrical current since water is the best firefighting
Equipment. material. In case of fires which include oils or liquids, it
is better to use the fire-fighting materials for liquids in
order to put them out. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are
considered the best extinguishers for electrical fires due
to their light weight
Dry Chemical Powder:
There isn’t any dry powder type which is suitable for all
metal fires, but there is a special powder for each type of
combustible metals. Therefore, it is essential to comply
Fire Type (D): with the instructions fixed on the extinguishers by the
Combustible Dry Chemical Powder manufacturers and the Civil Defense must be consulted
Metals on selection of suitable extinguishers for the metal fires.
Important Notes:
There is a significant risk to health, if the suitable type
of extinguishers is not properly selected for fighting
metal fires.
Table No. 2-3
46
7.7 Fixed Fire-Fighting Equipment
They are fixed extensions network, where some are used for fire-fighting at the initial stages by normal occupants of
the building, and others that must be used by trained people such as special fighting teams or Civil Defense men.
They are divided to the following in terms of operation:
7.7.1 Coiled Rubber Hoses:
The coiled rubber house is a simple means for firefighting for initial stages only by the building occupants
themselves without the need for previous training. Each hose is a rubber hose of 25mm diameter (one inch) coiled
up on a reel fixed on a wall and kept inside a metal box connected directly with the water supply network and ready
for use immediately after pulling the hose.
7.7.1.1 The Coiled Rubber Hose consists of the following:
1) Network 2) Reel 3) Hose and its connections 4) Water source
7.7.2 Dry Vertical Pipes:
They are fixed extensions network free of water, which include w discharge point for pumping water from outside
the building, and fire hydrants distributed at the required locations in the building used for assisting Civil Defense
men in discharging water and using it for upper floors.
7.7.2.1 The dry vertical pipes network in the buildings consists of the following:
1- Vertical pipe which supply water to the fire hydrants.
2- Discharge point at the lower part of the network for pumping by the Civil Defense (inlet).
3- Fire hydrants in the floors (outlet).
7.7.2.2 Dry vertical pipes are required in the following buildings and cases:
1- Buildings composed of (5) floors and more including the ground floor, or buildings of with a height of (18) m or
more.
2- Buildings composed of two floors, where the floor area is more than 1000 square meters.
3- Buildings that pose a threat to the lives or contents at the discretion of the Civil Defense.
7.7.3 Moist Vertical Pipes
Fixed extensions network with continuous water source that supplies water to the fire hydrants (outlet) distributed at
the required locations in the building and used by Civil Defense men or by people trained for fire-fighting in the
building.
7.7.3.1 The moist vertical pipes network in the buildings consists of the following:
1- The vertical pipe which supplies the hydrants with water.
2- Water sources.
3- Pumps
4- Discharge point or opening.
47
7.7.2.3 The moist vertical pipes are required in the following buildings and cases:
 Buildings with a height exceeding 28 m.
 Buildings with a height exceeding 30 m from the flooring of the ground floor to the flooring of the last
floor.
7.7.3.3 The network should only be used for fire-fighting work.
7.7.3.4 The keys of the network’s main valves are maintained in a special locked location and a copy of the keys is
kept in a locked box with a glass pane installed on the building door, in order to prevent the masses or the
unauthorized people from messing with it.
7.7.4 Foam Discharge Network:
It is a fixed pipes network used for discharging the mixture of water and foam material and enabling it to reach
inaccessible locations, which are normally used for storage or use of liquid fuels. The mixture of water and foam
material flows in the form of bubbles operating as an insulating curtain for the burning surface from the released
oxygen, whereas the water carries out the cooling process.
7.7.5 External Fire Hydrants:
They are underground extensions network with a continuous water source supplying the fire hydrants with water and
used for fighting fire from outside by the Civil Defense men.
7.7.5.1 Fire hydrants are required in the following cases:
1- At all public roads in the cities
2- Outside the buildings equipped with moist vertical pipes network to be a complementary part thereof.
3- At the roads and squares of main establishments containing special risk such as the airports, ports, major
companies and assembly buildings etc.
7.7.5.2 Fire hydrants consist of the following:
1- Pipes network that supplies water to the hydrants.
2- Water sources
3- Hydrants
7.7.5.3 Fire-fighting water hydrants are divided into two sections:
 Vertical fire-fighting water hydrants on the ground.
 Underground fire-fighting water hydrants
7.7.5.3.1 Vertical Fire-Fighting Water Hydrants on the Ground:
1- They are considered as fixed vertical pipe connected at the lower part with the supplying network and ends at the
top with one or more hydrants. Each hydrant is provided with a cover tied to a chain.
2- The vertical pipe diameter depends on the number of hydrants and their use and the quantity of the water
discharged from them and it should not be less than 4 inches and each hydrant must not be less than 25 inches.
3- A valve should be placed beside each hydrant within a hole inspected according to the specifications and
requirements determined by the Civil Defense.
48
7.7.5.3.2 Underground Fire-Fighting Water Hydrants:
A pipe which includes a valve and ends up with the hydrant with direct dripping opening with a cover tied to a chain
in accordance with the Civil Defense specifications. The fire-fighting hydrants should be kept in a hole inspected
according to the specifications and requirements of Civil Defense.
7.8 Automatic Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment

They are considered as fixed extensions network with openings distributed at the locations required to be protected
and provided with continuous source of suitable extinguishing material. It is activated automatically by sensing heat
arising from the fire or sensing the smoke or by both means.
7.8.1 Automatic Fire Extinguishing Water Sprinklers System:
Overhead pipes network distributed at the locations required to be protected. They are provided with water from a
suitable water source in terms of quantity and pressure so that the water will be discharged through closed sprinklers
heads (moist sprinklers), which open automatically when affected by heat, or will be discharged through open heads
deluging the whole area in water, which can open automatically through supporting alarm means.
7.8.1.1 The automatic water sprinklers network should be designed, implemented and maintained in accordance with
the specifications and conditions of (Part Two) or the Civil Defense Directory.
7.8.1.2 When designing the water sprinklers network, the fire hazard type in the contents, whether it is high, medium
or light, and its subdivisions should be taken into account, in accordance with the specifications and requirements of
Part Two or the Civil Defense Directory.
7.8.2 The types of the automatic fixed fire extinguishing systems are as follows:
1. Moist network.
2. Dry network.
3. Pre-operating moist network.
4. Full Deluge network.
5. Installed network.
7.8.2.1 Fire Extinguishing Sprinklers with a Most Network:
A network pressurized by water so that it can be discharged through closed sprinkler heads, which are opened when
affected by heat.
7.8.2.2 Fire Extinguishing Sprinklers with a Dry Network:
They are similar to the moist network in terms of extensions; however, it is pressurized by air, where the water is
stopped at the main valve due to air pressure. The main valve is opened automatically when the air leaks through the
sprinklers heads, which are opened when affected by the fire, so that the water will be discharged through it.
49
7.8.2.3 Pre-Operating Moist Network
It is similar to the moist network in terms of extensions, with the water stopped at the valve and provided with
supporting alarm network, either aerial or electrical, which works automatically by opening the valve when affected
by fire, so that the water is discharged though the thermal sprinklers heads that open when affected by heat.
7.8.2.4 Full Deluge Network
It is similar to the pre-operating moist network in terms of extensions; however, all the sprinklers’ heads are opened
and they deluge the whole area when the system is activated
7.8.2.5 Installed Network
It is a joint system combining between the pre-operating moist network and the dry network.
7.8.3 Halon System:
It is a pipes network distributed at locations required to be protected, which are supplied by cylinders containing
halon gas (as an extinguishing material) maintained by pressurized nitrogen, so that it will be discharged through the
discharge openings at the location required to be protected when activating the system. “Refer to the specifications
prescribed in the Civil Defense Directory; noting that this system will soon be prohibited internationally due to its
impact on environment, and will be replaced by alternative materials for the halon”.
7.8.4 Carbon Dioxide System:
It is a pipes network distributed at locations required to be protected, which are supplied by carbon dioxide gas
containers “cylinders” (as an extinguishing material) maintained in order to be discharged through the discharge
openings distributed to the pipes at the location required to be protected when activating the system. “Refer to the
specifications prescribed in the Civil Defense Directory”.
Inactive Gas Extinguishing System

High Pressure System
Pressure Key Non-Return Holder of Cylinders

Non-Return Valve
Valve Weight (Optional)
Gas Discharge Smoke Detector or Heat Detector

Opening
Pressure Relief Valve (PRV)
Main Discharge Valve

Automatic Operation Device
Manual Operation
Device
Manual Operation
High Pressure Carbon Dioxide System
Panel (Optional)
Remote Operation Control
Main Reserve
Basic Cylinder Set Reserve Cylinder Set
Figure 2-4
50
7.8.5 Dry Chemical Powder System
It is a pipes network distributed at the areas required to be protected, which is supplied from dry powder tanks (as an
extinguishing material) pressurized by nitrogen gas or carbon dioxide; in order to be discharged through the
discharge openings to the locations required to be protected. The materials used in this extinguishing material
normally include Sodium Bicarbonate, Potassium Bicarbonate or Mono Ammonium Phosphates.
7.8.5.1 Types of Dry Chemical Powder System: The dry chemical powder systems are divided into the following
types in terms of their coverage method:
1- Full Deluge System: The system that covers the size of the place or the whole room.
2- Partial Deluge System: The system that covers limited part in the building or place.
7.8.5.2 The dry chemical powder systems are operated as follows:
1- Automatic Operation: through fire detectors which open the valve of the powder containers.
2- Electrical Manual Operation: through a manual electrical switch that performs the role of fire detectors.
3- Mechanical Manual Operation: Through the mechanical manual operation tools.
7.8.5.3 Design: The dry chemical powder systems should be designed, implemented and maintained in accordance
with the requirements and specifications of the Civil Defense Directory.
Dry Chemical Powder System
A Modular system for the Protection of Incinerators and Kitchen Chimneys

Cylinder Operation Head Distribution Pipes
Side Pulley
Cable to the Manual Operation Unit
Gas Valve
Lock Cable
Manual Operation Unit
Extinguishing Material
by Pulling the Cable
Cylinder Fused Unit Discharge Opening
Figure 2-5
51
7.8.6 Foam and Water System:
Definition: It is a pipes network distributed to the locations required to be protected, which is supplied from a source
for foam and water, either mixed with each other or mixed before flowing on the burning surface.
This mixture flows in the form of bubbles, forming an insulating curtain to the burning surface from the oxygen
whereas the water performs the cooling process.
7.8.6.1 Types of Foam in terms of Extension:
(1) Low Extension (2) Medium Extension (3) High Extension
7.8.6.2 Types of Foam Fire-Fighting Systems: The foam types are divided in terms of performance method to the
following types:
1- Fixed Networks System 2- Generation System (specialized for the foam system).
7.8.6.3 The Foam Fire-Fighting Systems are operated as follows:
1- Automatic Operation: Through fire detectors, the warning panel for operating the pumps or other means for
discharging the solution.
2- Mechanical Manual Operation: By opening the foam valve, the mixing systems or the valves.
3- Electrical Manual Operation: By operating the pumps or other means such as solenoids for opening the valves.
4- Remote Control System: Through pre-programming with a television camera.
7.8.6.4 Design: The fire-fighting systems should be designed, implemented and maintained in accordance with the
specifications and requirements of (Part Two) or the Civil Defense Directory.
7.8.7 Automatic Fixed Unit (Modeler Extinguisher)
Independent extinguishing units (fire extinguishers) fixed at the locations required to be protected. They operate
automatically by discharging their contents from extinguishing material when a fire occurs.
7.8.7.1 The distribution, size and type should be suitable for protecting the locations, according to the Civil Defense
conditions.
7.8.7.2 The units should be in accordance with the international specifications recognized by the Civil Defense.
7.8.7.3 The units should receive regular periodical maintenance service by a maintenance contractor recognized by
the Civil Defense.
Figure 2-6
52
7.9 Fire Alarm Systems
Fire alarm systems are divided into two main types:
(1) Manual Alarm System (2) Automatic Alarm System
7.9.1 The Manual Alarm System is a device which operates manually through (call points) keys distributed in
certain locations and operates through electrical current. They are divided into two types:
1- Call points operated manually by breaking the glass cover.
2- Call points operated manually by turning on a special key.
7.9.1.1 The Manual Alarm System consists of the following:
1- Push Button (Glass Cover or Key)
2- Alarm Bell
3- Control Panel
7.9.2 Automatic Alarm System: A device that operates through electrical power to sense fire hazard and then
provide a warning. The automatic alarm system consists of the following:
7.9.2.1 1- Fire Detectors (Smoke – Flame – Heat - ….etc.)
2- Alarm Bell
3- Control Panel
7.9.2.2 The automatic alarm system works using one of the following means:
1- Through tools associated with the automatic fire equipment or the central air conditioning system.
2- Through sensitive tools (detectors) which are affected by the heat.
3- Through sensitive tools (detectors) which are affected by the smoke.
4- Through sensitive tools (detectors) which are affected by the infrared flame rays.
5- Mechanical alarm device (bell…etc.) which operates through pressure arising from the automatic sprinklers
system.
6- Fire alarm system is required and its type is determined in accordance with the building’s type and its use
according to the specifications of the Civil Defense.
53
Chapter Three
Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits)
Index
Chapter Three
Page Symbol Chapter Three: General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits)
57 1 Components of Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
57 2 Application of the Means of Escape Requirements (Emergency Exits)
57 3 Requirements of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
58 4 Principles of Designing the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
58 4.1 Movement Distance:
60 4.1.1 *Closed Ends in the paths of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
60 4.1.2 *Direct Distance
60 4.2 The Absorptive Capacity of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 4.3 The Height of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 4.4 The Wideness of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
63 4.5 Number of Means of Escape Exits (Emergency Exits)
64 4.6 Distribution of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
65 5 General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits):
65 5.1 *Building Materials
65 5.2 *Protection from the Risk of Fire and Smoke
65 5.3 *Protection of the Openings Existing in the Partition Walls
65 5.4 *Internal Finishing of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
66 6 The Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
66 7 The Emergency Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
67 8 Guide Signs for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
68 9 Protection from Falling while Using the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
69 10 Doors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
70 10.4 *Organization of the Movement of the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency
Exits)
72 10.5 *The Means for Opening the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency Exits)
72 10.6 *The Automatic and Special Doors for the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits)
72 10.7 *Revolving Doors
72 10.8 *Restricting the Movement of the Building Occupants and the Means of
Escape (Emergency Exits)
72 10.9 *Field of Vision through the Means of Escape Doors
55
Index Cont’d
Chapter Three
Chapter Three Cont’d: General Requirements for Means of Escape
Page Symbol
(Emergency Exits)
73 11 Corridors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
73 11.6 Floors of the Means of Escape Corridors (Emergency Exits)
74 12 Internal Stairs
74 13 Specifications of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 14 Protection of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 15 Ventilation of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
76 15.1 *Ventilation by Natural Means
77 15.2 *Ventilation by Mechanical Means
78 16 Distribution of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)
78 17 External Stairs
79 18 Bridges, Balconies and Exterior Corridors
79 19 Ramps
79 20 Final Exit of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
80 21 Horizontal Exit of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
81 22 Special Means of Escape
81 22.2 *Spiral Staircase
82 22.3 *Fixed Upright Ladder (Sailor Type)
82 22.4 *Fixed Inclined Ladder
82 22.5 *Automatic Emergency Stairs
82 23 External Windows
Index of Tables
Table Table Name
Page
No.
58 3-1 The Movement Distance for Various Types of Areas in the Buildings
60 3-2 The Minimum Width for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
61 3-3 The Buildings’ Evacuation Time in Case of Fire
62 3-4 The Estimation of the Number of the Building’s Occupants
63 3-5 The Number of Required Exits for Specific Number of People
56
Chapter Three
1 Components of Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
1.1 The buildings, establishments and shops should be provided with suitable means of escape (emergency exits) in
order to create a way out or an exit for evacuating the buildings users and occupants, and moving them away
from fire area in order to protect them from injuries and protect their lives from the fire.
1.2 The means of escape (emergency exits) consist of one or more safe routes (paths), so that the people present in
the building can escape by moving from any point in the building and get out of the building directly or reach
any area or location safe from the fire, which also leads to the outside of the building where it is safe from fire
hazard.
1.3 Means of escape ( emergency exits) consist of different parts such as corridors, stairs, halls, bridges, ramps,
doors and exits etc.; forming together an integrated unit which are ( emergency exits ) of escape.
2 Application of the Means of Escape Requirements (Emergency Exits)

2.1 All buildings, establishments and shops which are subject to the Civil Defense licenses must be equipped with
firefighting and alarm systems and the suitable prevention in accordance with these requirements.
2.2 It is prohibited to make any modifications or additions to the building that may breach these requirements, and it
is not allowed to change the building’s nature of use unless the means of escape (emergency exits) are changed
to suit the new use requirements.
2.3 The Civil Defense has the right to add any requirements that it deems appropriate for exceptional cases which
were not covered or viewed as an unnatural fire hazard.
3 Requirements of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)

3.1 The escape path should not in any case pass through a room or a place which can be sealed and it should not pass
near any location where a fire hazard exists unless it is separated by fire spread preventive barrier.
3.2 If means of escape path continues to extend below the final exit level (as in the case of the staircase’s
continuation to the basement), the continuation should be disconnected by a fire spread preventive wall so that
the escape path will not mistakenly lead to the basement or any hazardous location.
3.3 Sufficient sign boards and arrows should be fixed on the exit path; indicating the path’s direction. If the path is
obstructed by any door leading to a hazardous location or a closed end, a clear and explicit warning sign must
be placed on that door.
57
3.4 The escape path should not be covered with any combustible materials or any material that may lead to slipping
or stumbling.
3.5 It should be prohibited to place or install any type of furniture, barriers, equipment, or any fixed or mobile
objects, which may reduce the wideness of the means of escape or obstruct its use.
3.6 The means of escape should always remain in a suitable condition to provide the highest capacity for escape and
should not be used for any other purposes than the one designated for it.
3.7 Fall preventive barriers should be fixed in means of escape paths (emergency exits), such as on the empty parts
of the stairs, bridges, shelves or the highest edge of the surfaces. Glass plates and their like are not considered as
preventive barriers.
3.8 Sufficient natural or mechanical ventilation should be provided to the exit path.
Sufficient natural or artificial lightening should be provided for the exit path in crowded buildings, or high or
public buildings such as hotels, cinemas and factories; in addition to a reserve source for providing electrical
current in case of power outage, and the reserve lightening should include sign boards and arrows indicating the
means of escape (emergency exits).
3.9 The responsibility for providing and maintaining the fire-fighting and alarm devices inside the buildings should
be assumed by the owner, and the lessee should be responsible for removing the obstructions from the escape
corridors, and maintaining the fire-fighting and alarm devices in the part leased to him.
4 Principles of Designing the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
4.1 Movement Distance
4.1.1The escape routes and exits should be coordinated so that the movement distance between any point and the
nearest exit in the floor should not exceed the prescribed distance in the following table No 3 -1, unless stated
otherwise in the buildings’ preventive requirements in accordance with the use.
The Movement Distance for Various Types of Areas in the Buildings

Area Type Direction of Movement
Open Area 15 m 40 m
Divided Area 10 m 30 m
Area Divided through the corridor 10 m 30 m
2
Internal Fire Sections less than 50 m Undefined Undefined
Internal Fire Sections more than 150
Not Permitted 30 m
m2 (less than 50 people)
Internal Fire Sections more than 150
Not Permitted 30 m
m2 (more than 50 people)
Protected Corridor 10 m 30 m
Table No. 3-1
58
4.1.2 The distance must be measured on the pivot line of the actual escape path from a point at (30 cm) away from
the farthest point in the building until the middle of the final exist or the safe part of the mean of escape, which
leads to the final exit.
4.1.3In independent rooms or apartments, the distance should be measured from their entrance; provided that their
depth is not more than (15 m) and their absorptive capacity should not exceed the specified number according to
the buildings preventive requirements in terms of use.
4.1.4 The maximum level of movement distance in protected corridor in order to reach the nearest exit (whether
another fire section or protected stairs) should not exceed 30 m.
4.1.5 The locations, where highly flammable or combustible materials are manufactured, handled or stored, multiply
the values indicated in Table No. 3.1 by 0.5 to obtain the movement distance.
4.1.6 Unfamiliar establishments to individuals or the ones where they cannot move within them by themselves:
1- The movement should not be permitted to be in one direction (closed end).
2- The indicated movement distance in Table No. 3.1 should be multiplied by 0.75.
4.1.7 The movement distance may be increased by 50% if automatic sprinklers network and fire detection systems
are available and the increase should not exceed 25% as for open areas.
4.1.8 As for the buildings whose height exceeds five floors (ground floor + 4) or the buildings whose floor area is
more than 2500 m2 , they should be equipped with a fire alarm system, which warns about the building’s
evacuation; provided that it is distinguished by clear signs and instructions for its operation.
Measurement of Movement Distance
1- In the floor or any surface of the building.

2- Along the central line to cross the normal road
3- Beginning from (30.5) cm (1 ft.) from control point
4- Around the angles and obstructions with net (30.5) cm (1 ft.)
5- Ends where the beginnings of the exit
6- Crossing distance includes crossing over stairs and ramps, and the stairs are
measured on the surface
Figure 3-2
59
4.1.9 Closed Ends in the Paths of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
4.1.9.1 It is measured by the same movement distance method from the farthest point to the middle of the exit or
from the farthest point to the starting point to two different escape paths; provided that the distance should not
be more than 7.5 m.
4.1.10 Direct Distance: The shortest imaginary line inside the building connecting the farthest point and the exit.
4.1.11 If it is impossible to measure the movement distance when designing it, due to lack of sufficient information
regarding the nature of use, an imaginary line should be presumed called the direct distance, which is the
shortest line inside the building connecting the farthest point with the exit regardless of any obstructions, and
such line is estimated based on the fact that the movement distance is equal to 1.5 of the direct distance.
4.2 The Absorptive Capacity of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
4.2.1 The absorptive capacity is estimated by the maximum number of people who can be present in the building or
any part thereof at any time; provided that the number should not be less than the specified number in Table
No. 3.2.
The Minimum Width for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)

Parts of Means The Minimum Width for the Means of Escape by Meters
of Escape Number of People
100 150 200 250 300
Doors and 0.80 0.85 1.00 1.25 1.5
Corridors
Stairs 0.75 1.00 1.30 1.65 3.00
Table No. 3-2
4.2.2 The width of the means of escape should be calculated as per the previous table based on the number of people
who will use it in case of an emergency. It is preferred that the width of the exits and the means of escape
should not be less than 100 cm.
4.2.3 The completion method can be used for calculating the values confined between 100 – 300 people from the
occupants of the building, in order to obtain the minimum net width of means of escape in the floor by meters.
4.2.4 In the event that more than 300 people of the building occupants are present, the net width should be increased
by (0.05 m) for each additional 10 people to use the corridors, and 8 people to use the stairs.
4.2.5 In repeated floors, the maximum number of people in a single floor should be taken into account to estimate
the wideness of the exits; provided that it is not less than the wideness of the main means of escape (emergency
exits) which lead to the final exits.
4.2.6 If the number exceeds 1000 people, an additional exit should be made available with a 152 cm width for each
additional 500 people. The width of the stairs and landings should be equal at all its stages until the final exit.
As for the cases that are not mentioned in the table, the Civil Defense will determine the reasonable measures in
accordance with each design requirements.
60
4.3 The Height of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): The means of escape should be designed so that the net
height for each part thereof is not less than 2.2 m.
4.4 The Wideness of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits):
4.4.1 The wideness of the means of escape is estimated in accordance with Table no. 3-2, so that the wideness of the
means of escape will be sufficient for evacuating the people present in the building. The width is measured by
net gap at the narrowest point in any part of the means of escape components.
4.4.2 When the means of escape ( emergency exits) from upper and lower floors (basements) meet at the medium
floor, the wideness beginning from the joining point until the final exit should not be less than their total
wideness.
4.4.3 The wideness of the exits is related to the evacuation time of the building and the number of the occupants.
The evacuation time differs from one building to another in accordance with the prevention requirements in the
building. The Table No. 3.3 shows the estimates of buildings evacuation times.
The Buildings’ Evacuation Time in Case of Fire

Type of Buildings Proposed Evacuation Time in Minutes
Buildings provided with fire prevention requirements

3 Three Minutes
and have no fire hazard.

2.5 Two and a Half Minutes
and have a fire hazard.

and have a fire hazard or buildings provided with fire 2 Minutes
prevention requirements and have a high fire hazard.
Table No. 3-3
61
Estimation of the Number of the Building’s Occupants
Serial No. Building Description Area by square meters Number of persons per
per person (m2/person) square meter (person/
m2)
1- Single Family House - -
2- Residential Apartments Building - -
3- Hotel Buildings - -
Hotel Rooms 15.00 0.07
Restaurants 4.00 0.25
Meeting Rooms 1.00 0.15
4- Commercial Shops (Shopping Malls) 0.75 1.33
Central Markets 2.00 0.50
Small Commercial Shops -- --
5- School Buildings 3.00 0.30
6- Assembly Buildings
Showrooms 1.50 0.67
Conference Halls 1.00 1.00
Showrooms 7.00 0.15
7- Healthcare Buildings
Hospital Wings 15.00 0.07
Elderly Care Homes 15.00 0.07
8- Parking Lots 15.00 0.07
9- Industrial Buildings 10.00 0.10
10- Storage Buildings (Warehouses) -- --
Important Note: The number of the building occupants is based on their actual number if fixed seats are
available for them.
Table No. 3-4
62
4.4.4 The flow rate in the means of escape (emergency exits): It is the exit of 40 people per minute from a single
wideness unit.
4.4.5 Wideness Units: A number of the necessary units for the exit of people in accordance with specified flow rate
estimated by (40 persons per minute) in a period determined in accordance with the type of hazard in the building
and the extent of the availability of the prevention requirements.
Example: How many wideness units are required for the exit of 480 people within an evacuation time of 3 minutes?
Answer: 480 ÷ (40 X 3) = 4 wideness units.
The mathematical equation for calculating the number of the required wideness units:
Number of Wideness Units = Number of People in the Building

Flow Rate X Evacuation Time in Minutes
4.5 Number of means of escape (emergency exits) are the minimum number of exit openings required for the exit of
people in accordance with a specific flow rate estimated by (40 people per minute) in a specified period.
Example (1): How many means of escape exits (emergency exit openings) are required for the exit of 480 people
from the building within 3 minutes?
Answer: (Number of wideness units ÷ 4) + 1 = (4÷4) + 1 = 2
Example (2): How many means of escape exits (emergency exits openings) are required for the building which
needs exits of (8) wideness units?
Answer: (Number of wideness units ÷ 4 + 1 = (8 ÷ 4) + 1 = 3
The mathematical equation for calculating the required number of the means of escape exits (emergency exits
openings):
Number of Means of Escape Exits (Emergency Exits Openings) = Number of Wideness Units + 1
4
The Number of Required Exits for Specific Number of People

Number of People Number of Exits Minimum Net Width of the Exit
A Maximum of 200 People 2 90 cm
A Maximum of 300 People 2 122 cm
Maximum of 500 People 2 152 cm
Table No. 3-5
63
4.5.1 The number of exits should be according to the preventive requirements of buildings depending on the type of
use; and with the exception of the permitted cases, all buildings and establishments should have at least two exits
independent and distant from one another leading directly outside.
4.5.2 When calculating the required number of exists, it is preferable to take into consideration that one of them may
be out of order because of the fire, so that the remaining exits should be sufficient to absorb the maximum number
of people present in the building at any time; furthermore, the distribution and area requirements should also be
taken into consideration and it shall be left to the discretion of the Civil Defense.
4.6 Distribution of Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): The distribution of the means of escape should be
organized to provide the best possible coverage to the whole area.
4.6.1 The means of escape (emergency exits) should be distributed to the edges of the building to avoid the presence
of closed ends as much as possible, and the distance of the closed end should not by all means exceed the permitted
limit prescribed in the buildings’ preventive requirements in terms of type of use.
4.6.2 The means of escape (emergency exits) should be distributed in a manner that keeps them distant from each
other so that they will not break down all together due to a fire incident. The minimum distance limit between two
exits at one location is calculated by the following two methods:
A- The joining point angle of the two exits at any point in the location is not less than 45 degrees.
B- The distance between the two exits is not less than half a chord of the location.
4.6.3 When dividing the floor to more than one lessee or user, the means of escape (emergency exits) should be
easily accessible by the people present in all sections of that floor at the same time.
Distribution of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
(A) Eight Exits – Horizontal exit for VIPs. It is required to provide the important exit density.
Figure 3-3
64
Distribution of the Means of Escape
Room Area
Minimum Distance – Half a Mile
Figure 3-4
 The joining point angle of the two exits at any point in the location is not less than 54 degrees .
 The distance between the two exits is not less than half a chord of the location.
5 General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)

5.1 Building Materials: The means of escape should be constructed from non-combustible materials with the
suitable fire resistance degree as one of the structural frame elements.
5.1.1 The building materials of means of escape should have a fire resistance degree not less than one hour for the
buildings that do not exceed three floors, and two hours for the buildings exceeding these floors.
5.2 Protection from the Risk of Fire and Smoke: The means of escape should be separated from other parts of the
building, in order to protect them from the risk of fire and smoke, through fire spread preventive barriers made of
non-combustible materials with the suitable fire resistance degree.
5.3 Protection of the openings existing in the partition walls by fire and smoke spread preventive doors in
accordance with these requirements; provided that the number of such openings will only be confined to the
necessary ones for entry and exit.
5.4 Internal Finishing of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): The materials used in the internal finishing of the
means of escape should be non-combustible for as much as possible and from a type that does not increase the fire
hazard in any way. They should also be of very low degree of flame spread on their surfaces (zero degree).
65
The Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): All parts of means of escape should be
6
provided with sufficient natural or artificial lightening.
6.1 In case of artificial lightening with electrical current, it should be in accordance with the specifications of the
Ministry of Electricity and from a reliable source.
6.2 The lightening should be distributed to all parts of the means of escape, so that if one light bulb goes out, it will
not lead to the spread of darkness or lack of visibility at any point along the escape path.
6.3 The lightening should be continuous as long as it is required and with the required lightening degree which is not
less than 10 lux units on ground surface.
The Emergency Lighting of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): It should be provided to all
7 parts of the means of escape (emergency exits), when the normal lightening is down, in
accordance with these conditions and specifications or those recommended by the Civil Defense
7.1 The emergency lightening of the means of escape should be provided from a reserve source of electrical current
apart from the main source, so that it will be sufficient to work for at least two hours or according to the Civil
Defense requirements.
7.2 The emergency lighting operates automatically when the main source is disconnected with a time interval not
exceeding 10 seconds or it may be operating continuously.
7.3 In case of using the continuous current (batteries) as a supply source for the emergency light, it must contain an
integrated and certified system, in accordance with the specifications of Part Two or the Civil Defense
specifications.
7.4 In the permitted cases stated in the buildings’ preventive requirements in terms of the type of use, the emergency
lighting can be in the form of independent electrical lights supplied from a normal source of electrical current, and
charged automatically; in order to work immediately when a power outage occurs for at least two hours; provide that
they are approved by the Civil Defense.
66
Guide Signs for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): The means of escape should be
provided with the required guiding signs to be placed on the suitable locations in accordance
8 with the buildings’ preventive requirements regarding the type of use; in order to determine the
means of escape and their directions and to provide guidance about any instructions related to the
escape in particular and safety in general.
Guide Signs Indicating the Exit Path
The visibility of the signs is determined by measuring the light’s intensity in the circular areas
Figure No. 3-5
8.1 These signs should have a suitable size, words, code and color in accordance with the technical specifications of
the Civil Defense in order to appear in a clear and distinguished form different from the neighboring signs in terms
of lightening, finishing, color or decoration, and it is not be permitted to place any fittings or lightening that impedes
their visibility or draws attention away from them.
8.2 Exit sign should be placed directly on the exits, and the sign of (exit with an arrow) indicates the direction of the
escape path when the exit or the path is not clear or visible such as curves and corners, so that no point in the path
will be away from the sign by more than 30 m.
Some Locations for Installing the Guide Signs
Direction of Exit Crossing Path

Exit Signs
Exit
Direction of the Crossing Path
Figure 3-6
8.3 In accordance with the buildings’ preventive requirements regarding the type of use, the guide signs should be
lightened by the same normal lightening source and the same goes to the emergency lightening. The lightening
degree should not be less than 55 electrical units (watt) on the surface of the sign.
8.4 As for each door, corridor or stairs authorized as part of the means of escape but due to its location may lead to
confusion or escape to unsafe locations, another sign should be installed, on which the actual use will be written,
such as (To the Basement) or (Storage Room), or the like.
67
Protection from Falling while Using the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): Barriers should be
installed to protect from falling ( such as railing) on all edges of the empty parts from the means
9
of escape components, and any other part of the building which is accessible by people such as
the roof, atriums’ edge, main gaps on the roof, halls and the like, corridor’s edge… etc.
Railing for Protection from Falling on the Stairs

Building or Establishment
Required Exit (153) cm (60) inches
Stairs Railing Stairs Railing
(153) cm (60) inches – (153) cm (60) inches
Concept of Normal Path for Crossing the Prominent Stairs
Figure 3 – 7
9.1 Barriers should be installed on one side of the stairs, whose width is less than 120 cm, and on both sides if the
width exceeds that.
9.2 If the width of the stairs is more than 180 cm, an additional railing should be installed in the middle; and in such
a case, the stairs will be divided into two independent sections, where both are subject to the stairs width
requirements.
9.3 The height of the fall protection barriers should not be less than (90) cm in the internal parts and (120) cm in the
external parts of the buildings.
9.4 Glass should not be considered in any way as a fall protection barrier, and wherever glass plates are available on
facade or window gaps, additional fall protection barriers should be installed according to these requirements.
9.5 In case there is a difference in the floor level exceeding 18 cm or more than the height of a single stair,
preventive barriers should be installed for protection from falling to be made from non-combustible materials.
9.5.1 Fall protection barriers should be designed and installed in a firm and solid form that bear horizontal or vertical
pressure, and they should be properly implemented so that they will not cause any injuries to body organs or get
attached to the edges of clothes upon contact with them.
9.5.2 The gap in the barriers should not exceed 10 cm so as not to leave any room for squeezing body limbs, and the
bars should be designed in a proper form so that they will not assist the children in climbing them.
68
9.5.3 When installing a barrier on side of the stairs from the wall direction, a gap should be left between the handle
and the wall not less than (4 cm).
Permitted gap between the railing handle and the wall not less than (4 cm)
At least (4) cm
Railing
Example (1) accepted Example (2) not accepted

Example (3) accepted
Figure 3-8
Doors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): These requirements are applied to doors with
10 all their components including the frames, shutters and tools if they are part of the means of
escape.
10.1 If the escape doors prevent fire and smoke at the same time, they should be subject to the preventive
requirements prescribed in the construction preventive precautions chapter in addition to these requirements.
10.2 The door width is the net width when the door shutter is fully open.
10.3 The floor level of the means of escape: The ground level in the means of escape on both sides of the door
should be equal to a distance not less than the width of the door itself.
Measurement of the Door’s Net Width
Internal drawing of the stairs indicating the

required distance in the new buildings Net Width
Wall Wall
Door
B- At least half width of (A) A- Required Width
Figure 3-9
Figure 3-10
69
10.4 Organization of the Movement of the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency Exits):
10.4.1 The emergency doors should open in the direction of the escape path.
10.4.2 The required effort for opening the door fully should not exceed (23 kg. on the door handle)
Opening the Emergency Doors
Theater Complex
Road
Not adopted if less than (305) cm / 10 Ft.
Exit Path Exit Discharge
Figure 3 – 11
10.4.3 The door shutter movement should not affect the wideness of the means of escape parts or obstruct the use of
the means of escape in general.
10.4.3.1 The door shutter movement should not be less than the stairs width or the wideness of the stairs, corridor or
any part of means of escape components by more than half the required width.
10.4.3.2 If the door opens in the direction of the corridor, it should open by an angle of (180) degree; so that it will
not appear by more than 15cm from the wall front.
10.4.3.3 In case there are no consecutive doors as in the staircase space or insulating space, the distance between the
pivots of the two doors should not be less than 1.5 m or less than 1 m between the shutters movement.
The Staircase Space Doors (corridors

The proposed distribution of the corridors floor on the door slide
Door Slide
Hall (Corridors)
Occupied Space
Figure 3-12
70
10.4.3.4 All tools and lockers which go into the manufacture of doors, especially bearing hinges, must be made from
non-combustible materials and with a melting degree not less than 800 degrees.
10.4.3.5 The lockers and closing tools should be of a type that does not require the use of a key or need a special
knowledge to open them.
Two Types of Emergency Door Opening Bars (Panic Bars)
Automatic Closure of Emergency Doors by Pushing
Figure 3-13
10.4.3.6 When it is required to keep the door in escape path closed in order to prevent the spread of fire and smoke
or for any other reason, it should be equipped with a self-automatic closure device (door closer) of a certified type
with a suitable power that closes the door completely after being opened.
10.4.3.7 When the use necessitates keeping the fire preventive escape door open, automatic closure means should be
made available.
Door equipped with automatic closure means
Balanced Door
Figure 3-14
71
10.5 The Means for Opening the Means of Escape Doors (Emergency Exits): In the buildings and locations
determined by the preventive requirements regarding the type of use, the exit doors should be provided with quick
opening methods that open them from the outside in emergency cases, and they should be of a type certified by the
Civil Defense (panic bar).
10.5.1 This method should be a bar, board or rod where the moving part thereof is not be less than (75 cm) and the
height from ground level does not exceed (110 cm).
10.5.2 Such methods should not be fitted with any lockers or tools which may obstruct or prevent the opening of the
doors during an emergency case.
10.6 The Automatic and Special Doors for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): They are automatic doors which
are opened via a light cell when being approached by person or through any other means, and they are also doors
that are opened or closed by automatic means. Such doors should be equipped with a manual method to easily close
and open them when automatic means are not operational.
10.7 Revolving doors are not accepted as part of the means of escape and if they are available, they should be beside
types of doors that are certified according to the requirements.
10.8 When restricting the movement of the building occupants in using the means of escape (emergency exits): for
security purposes or other reasons the necessary actions should be taken to facilitate the use of means of escape
immediately in the emergency cases.
10.8.1 If it is necessary to close the escape doors, the key should be kept in closed box with a glass cover fixed on
top of the door to be used in emergencies. If this is not possible, each case should be considered separately with the
Civil Defense in order to make the suitable preparations.
10.8.2 When placing barriers, ropes or chains for controlling the entry or exit for purpose of organization or buying
tickets or others, such barriers should be easy to remove immediately in the event of emergency or should not be in a
position that may obstruct or prevent the use of escape means doors or reduces its capacity or efficiency.
10.9 Field of Vision through the Means of Escape Doors: In case of swinging doors in both directions and internal
rooms doors (room inside a room), an opening should be made in the door covered with transparent reinforced glass
to enable visibility at eye level, so that the height of the glass plate must be at the same level of normal visibility
(150 – 170 cm) and (100 cm) in case of people with disabilities.
72
Corridors of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): When it is not possible to reach the exit
directly and easily due to design requirements, easy and safe corridors should be provided to lead
11
directly to the exits without any closed ends. If this is not possible, the distance of the closed end
should not exceed 7.5 m.
11.1 The corridors must be in accordance with general requirements as part of the means of escape components in
addition to these requirements.
11.2 The corridors must be protected from fire and smoke hazard and such protection may be through readymade
partitions that have the required resistance degree in case of the building equipped with automatic water sprinklers
network or when special requirements permit that.
11.3 The width of the corridors must be sufficient to absorb the people who use them; so that it is not less than the
width of the exit to which it leads, and in any case, not less than (150 cm) in the main corridors, and not less than
(120 cm) inside the apartments.
Width of the Corridors of the Means of Escape
Classrooms
Public Road
Minimum Width
Corridor Exit
is (183) cm
Classroom Classroom
The width of the exit door must be less than the width of the corridor because the factors of the use load
operation are used for the requirements needed for the corridor’s width in this example for a school.
Figure 3 -15
11.4 The corridors should be distributed in a manner that enables any person to reach all exits in the floor easily and
freely and from more than one direction. It is also preferred to organize these corridors in a round form so as to
facilitate access to other remaining exits, if one of them becomes out of order due to the fire impact.
11.5 Smoke resistant preventive doors should be fitted in the corridors that automatically close in accordance with
the preventive precautions requirements in the structural fields in the following cases:
11.5.1 When the corridor’s length exceeds (30 m).
11.5.2 At the joining point of the main corridors with the sub-corridors.
11.5.3 At any position required by the conditions of protection from smoke hazard.
11.6 In case there is a difference in the corridors floor level, stairs or a ramp should be provided for movement from
one level to another, and if the difference is less than (45 cm), a ramp should be used instead of stairs.
73
Internal Stairs: Internal stairs form an important part of the escape exits, as they are located in a
12
well which vertically penetrate the building.
12.1 The escape stairs should be constructed from non-combustible materials and isolated from other parts of the
building through fire resistant doors and walls for a period not less than one hour, which easily lead directly outside
or to a hall free of any obstructions that also leads outside.
12.2 The floor for all parts of the stairs should be solid and not slippery, and does not contain any holes.
12.3 Fall protection barriers should be installed according to the fall protection requirements.
Internal Stairs is an Important Part of the Escape Exits
11th Floor
10th Floor
9th Floor
Figure 3-16
13 Specifications of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits)

13.1 The stairs width is the net distance between the wall front and the railing front or the other wall.
13.2 The stairs width should be sufficient to absorb the building occupants in accordance with the buildings
preventive requirements regarding the type of use and according to Table no. 3-2 “The Minimum Width for the
Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)”.
13.3 The completion method can be used for calculating the values confined between 100 – 300 people from the
occupants of the building, in order to obtain the minimum net width of means of escape in the floor by meters, as
stated in Paragraph 5.2.3.
13.4 In the event that more than 300 people of the building occupants are present, the net width should be increased
by (0.05 m) for each additional 10 people to use the corridors, and 8 people to use the stairs, as stated in Paragraph
5.2.4.
74
13.5 If the number exceeds 1000 people, an additional exit should be made available with a 152 cm width for each
additional 500 people. The width of the stairs and landings should be equal at all its levels until the final exit.
13.6 The depth of the flat stair should not be less than (28) cm and the height of the upright one should range
between (15 – 18) cm; so that the relationship between the stair width and its height remains governed by the
following equation: (2 x height + width = 60 – 65) cm.
Relationship between the Upright and Flat Stair
(33) cm
(13) inches
(30.5) cm (12.7) cm – (5) inches
(12) inches
(30.5) cm
(15.2) cm – (6) inches
(12) inches
(33) cm
(12.7) cm – (5) inches
(13) inches
(14) cm – (5.5) inches
Figure 3-17
13.7 The stairs should be organized in a group of (sets), each of which not exceeding (14) stairs and not less than (3)
stairs and ends with a landing.
13.8 The landing’s width should not be less than the width of the stair itself.
13.9 The group of consecutive stairs in one set should be equal in depth and height without any difference exceeding
(5 mm), and the disparities can be allowed by no more than (10 mm) between the highest and the lowest height or
the stair’s depth in the total sets.
75
Use of Fan-Shaped Curved Stairs
Curved Stairs – Measure (B) should not be less than double measure (A).
Measure (C) must not be less than (27.9) cm (11) inches
Figure 8 – 13
3-10 Fan-shaped curved stairs may be used; provided that the minimum width level must not be less than (25) cm
and the distance from the curve center to the beginning of the stair curve from the center’s direction should not be
less than double the stairs’ width.
Protection of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits) from Fire and Smoke: The stairs
14 should be provided with the general conditions for protection from fire and smoke, in accordance
with the preventive requirements in structural fields in addition to these requirements
14.1 In the buildings whose height does not exceed six floors or those prescribed in the building’s preventive
requirements regarding the type of use, the stairwell should be separated from the building through an insulated
space constructed in accordance with the requirements of the stairs themselves, in terms of construction, ventilation,
doors… etc.; so that double protection will be provided to the stairs.
14.2 It is preferred to keep the fire equipment in the insulating space when possible to ensure that they are placed in
a position protected from fire hazard and can be used by fire extinguishing men as a preparation and starting point
for firefighting.
Ventilation of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits): Since the staircase is the only
15 means of escape in the repeated floors, it should be provided with sufficient ventilation for
discharging the smoke, in case of its leakage to the stairwell.
15.1 Ventilation can be provided by natural means as in the following cases:
15.1.1 Openable windows on the external wall of the building with an area not less than (1.5 m2) on each floor.
15.1.2 Permanent opening in the ceiling of the stairwell with an area equal to (5%) of the area of stairwell floor and
not less than ( 1 m2), or an openable window using a manual method, which can be easily operated from the ground
floor through one motion with the same measurement.
76
15.1.3 In the buildings where it is not permitted to construct the stairs on the external wall of the building, the
ventilation doors may face an atrium designed for this purpose, which should not contain any services that could
cause fire hazard.
15.1.4 Under any circumstances when it becomes necessary to keep the ventilation windows closed for air
conditioning or other purposes, the windows should be openable by the Civil Defense men during emergency
situations through user-friendly manual means by a single motion. Such means should be placed in recognized clear
positions such as the entrance, and installed thereon with a guide sign containing the sentence (Manual Ventilation
Key).
15.2 Ventilation can be provided by mechanical means in the buildings that permit the implementation of the
buildings’ preventive requirements regarding the type of use.
15.2.1 The stairs can be protected by pressure increase system rather than ventilation systems in order to keep them
free of smoke; as the pressure increase system is designed in accordance with the approved specifications.
Air Pressurized Stairs
Flow Path Mechanical Room (Ventilation)

Mechanical Room (Ventilation)

Mechanical Equipment and Air-Conditioning Flow Path Works
Figure 3-19
77
Distribution of the Means of Escape Staircase (Emergency Exits): With the exception of the cases
permitted by the buildings’ preventive requirements regarding the type of use, the stairs should be
16
on the external walls of the buildings to avoid any closed ends. As for buildings with a single
staircase, the stairs should be on the external wall of the building.
16.1 The stair should not continue from upper floors to the basement, and the basement should have an independent
staircase. In the case where it is not possible to do so, the continuity of the stairs gap should be cut off in the ground
floor through fire spread preventive barrier which rises to the ceiling; so that the entry to the basement should be
directly from outside.
16.2 Guide signals should be installed inside stairwell to indicate the floors numbers.
Relationship of the Stairs with the Building
Internal Stairs External Stairs
Corridor
Figure 3-20
External Stairs: When the external stairs are considered as part of the means of escape, they should
17 be consistent with the internal stair requirements in addition to these requirements, with the
exception of fire protection requirements.
17.1 In certain special cases permitted by the Civil Defense, the external stairs may be constructed from a metal
frame; provided that it is processed for protection from climate factors.
17.2 The external stairs should be separated from the building by walls constructed from non-combustible materials
with the required fire resistant degree and the openings facing the stairs should be covered with fire preventive doors
with automatic closure system, and windows made of fire resistant reinforced glass according to the following:
17.2.1 Within a distance of (3 m) horizontally, vertically and in-depth.
17.2.2 There is no need for them in the last floor, if the stairs are not extended to the roof.
17.3 Guide signs should be placed on the staircase doors to indicate the floor number to which they lead.
78
Bridges, Balconies and Exterior Corridors: When the external bridges and balconies constitute part
18
of the means of escape, the external stairs requirements and these requirements should be applied.
18.1 The height of the sides of openings facing the balconies, bridges or exterior corridors should not be less than (2
m) and they should be constructed from bricks or concrete.
18.2 The width should be sufficient to absorb the people who use them; provided that it should not be less than (1.5
m).
Ramps: They are inclined roads, which are the alternative for the stairs in terms of movement from
19 one level to another in the means of escape. The prescribed stairs requirements in general in addition
to these requirements will be applied.
19.1 The floors should be firm, coarse and not slippery.
19.2 The inclination percentage should be the same in all ramp parts.
19.3 The landing should be used when changing the path’s direction.
19.4 The ramps percentage should not exceed 1:10.
Ramps Percentage 1:10
1m
10 m
Figure 3-21
Final Exit of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): The escape path should end at the final exit
20
that leads to outside the building or to the highway.
20.1 In the cases permitted by special requirements, 50% of the means of escape at most may end at locations inside
the building with similar level to the final exit (usually the ground floor); provided that the following is provided at
these locations:
20.1.1 The movement from the end of the path such as the lower part of the stairs to the final exit should be easy,
clear and without any obstructions, and the distance should not exceed 15 m.
20.1.2 It should be provided with automatic water sprinklers network.
20.2 The escape path may end at the surface if all escape path requirements are met, so that another easy and safe
path is made available that leads to the highway.
20.3 The wideness of the exit or the final exits should be sufficient for discharging the people present in the building
and it should not by all means be less than the wideness of the escape paths leading to them.
79
Horizontal Exits of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits): Horizontal Exit is an exit leading to a
safe zone inside or outside the building, which provides safe shelter for the people who are exposed to
21
fire hazard in the buildings and cases stipulated by the buildings’ preventive requirements in terms of
use.
Horizontal Exits of the Means of Escape
3 Stairs are provided to be used for two horizontal exits.
Figure 3-22
21.1 If both sides are considered safe zones, another exit must be provided on the opposite direction of the same
barrier so that both sides will be considered as safe zones for one another, while installing the suitable guide signs.
21.2 The temporary exits can be an alternative to half of the original exits in the building at the most; provided that
the distance requirements are met and the temporary exits should include at least one stair leading to the final exit.
21.3 The area of the safe zone should be sufficient to absorb the maximum number of people assumed to be present
on both sides, based on an area of (0.3 m2) per person.
21.4 The safe zone may be outside the building in a neighboring building, bridge or corridor, which leads on its part
to the highway in accordance with the general requirements for the means of escape.
21.5 The safe zones to which the temporary exits lead should be belonging to a single user or lessee, with the
exception of special cases approved by the Civil Defense.
21.6 Under any circumstances, it is prohibited to install any locks on temporary exits or any other means that
prevent their use at any time.
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Special Means of Escape: They are spiral staircases, fixed upright ladders (sailor type), fixed
22
inclined ladders and automatic emergency stairs.
22.1 Special means of escape can be used in accordance with these requirements in the following cases:
22.1.1 Upright buildings where it is not possible to implement the suitable means of escape in according to the
requirements.
22.1.2 In limited cases and for serving a specified number of people, such as the machinery rooms and the elevator
room on the roof, towers, factories … etc.
22.1.3 The special means of escape may be one of the prescribed means in these requirements or any other means
22.2 The spiral staircase can be used to serve a maximum of (5) people and in three floors only; provided that the
following specifications are met:
22.2.1 The diameter is not less than (1.5 m).
22.2.2 The width of the staircase must not be less than (19 cm) at a point that is (30 cm) away from the center.
22.2.3 The height of a single stair must not exceed (25 cm) with a height field not less than (2 m).
Spiral Staircase
Upper Floor Line
(30.5) cm - (12) inches
Column Center
(19.1) cm - (7.5) inches
(198) cm - (6.5) ft. Maximum of (24.1)

cm - (9.5) inches
Enlargement of the depth of a stair for clarification
Floor Line
Minimum of (66)
cm – (26) inches
Figure 3-23
81
22.3 Fixed Upright Ladder (Sailor Type): It is permitted to use fixed upright ladder (sailor type) on the wall in
exceptional cases in order to serve few number of people working on the site only; provided that a barrier is installed
on both of its sides, which extends for a distance of one meter over the surface level where the ladder ends. If the
height of the ladder exceeds (9 m), it should be totally covered with grid barrier for protection from falling.
22.4 Fixed Inclined Ladder: The fixed inclined ladder can be used; on the condition that the horizon dip does not
exceed 60 degree, the stairs’ width is not less than (13 cm) and the distance between them does not exceed 20 cm.
All these means should be constructed from non-combustible materials which are processed for protection from
corrosion and climatic factors, and they should also be firm, stable and connected firmly to the building.
22.5 Automatic Emergency Stairs: In the cases permitted by the Civil Defense, the automatic stairs can be used; as
they automatically come down when being used, and go up when not in use through a counterweight; provided that
they are of the type approved by the Civil Defense.
External Windows: It is prohibited to fix the barriers and obstructions on the windows of the external
23 facades located on the ground floor of the building unless they are easy to open and in accordance
with a special approval from the Civil Defense.
23.1 When using the external windows as emergency exits; the wideness of their openings should be sufficient for
easy exit of people.
External facades Windows
Ceiling
(76) cm (30) inches X (91) cm (36) inches

Minimum Net Opening
Minimum Net Opening
(61) cm (24) inches X (198) cm (78) inches
(30.5) cm (12) inches at most or degrees
Double Fixed Floor Window or

Window Door Height
Windows Openings for the Fire Escape Exits
Figure 3-24
82
Chapter Four
Engineering Services
Index
Chapter Four
86 1 Ventilation and Central Air Conditioning
87 2 Electrical Wiring
90 3 Garbage Collection and Disposal
90 4 Steam and Hot Water Boilers
91 5 Electric Escalators
91 6 Elevators
91 6.4 *Fire Elevator
92 6.5 *Elevator Shaft
93 6.6 *Elevator Machine Room
93 6.7 *Elevator Cabin
94 6.8 *Supplying Elevators with Electric Current
94 6.9 *Periodic Inspection and Maintenance on Elevators
95 7 Liquid Fuel Tanks
95 8 Liquid Fuel Tank Room
96 9 Gaseous Fuel Tank
96 10 Chimneys for Discharging Cooking and Heating Fumes
97 11 Ventilation and Smoke Discharge
The Fire Protection Requirements for the Central System of the Liquefied Gas
98 12
Fuel Used in Buildings:
98 12.1 *Estimation of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size
98 12.2 *Selection of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size
99 12.3 *Specifications of the Central Fuel Gas Tank and Its Equipment
100 12.4 *Selection of the Location of the Central Fuel Gas Tank
101 12.5 *The Central Fuel Gas Tank Fence
*Prevention Requirements when Using (Mobile Liquefied Gas) Cylinders in
101 12.6
the Central System
101 12.7 **Storage of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders
101 12.8 **Regulator of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders
101 12.9 **Supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas through a Central Network
84
Index Cont’d
Chapter Four
Prevention Requirements in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Supply Pipes
102 12.10
(Extensions)
102 12.10.2 Prevention Requirements for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Supply Pipes
Prevention Requirements in the Selection of the Location of the Liquefied
103 12.10.3
Petroleum Gas Supply Pipes
Prevention Requirements in Connecting the Incinerators with the Liquefied
103 12.10.4
General Preventive Precautions for fire protection for the Central Liquidated
103 12.11
Petroleum Gas System
85
Chapter Four
Engineering services are designed and implemented in buildings for their protection from fire, according to
the requirements of this Chapter
1 Ventilation and Central Air Conditioning
1.1 The design of the central air conditioning unit includes sufficient precautions to prevent fire and smoke spread
through air conditioning channels in accordance with these requirements.
1.2 When selecting the location of the external air inlets for the air conditioner, it should be taken into account that
the air inlets must not be near places or sources that can be exposed to fire hazard.
1.3 It is preferable to distribute the air conditioning channels in a decentralized manner; and that is by distributing
them in independent sections each of which covers a part of the building. As for the locations exposed to fire
hazard such as the kitchens, toilets and other locations, separate air conditioners should be provided for them.
1.4 The Civil Defense may request in special cases to install an emergency key on the air conditioner at the right
time in order to serve the Civil Defense men.
1.5 Due to reasons concerning the design of the air conditioner, the buildings with closed facades should have
special windows or openings in these facades to enable the Civil Defense men to discharge the smoke in the
building when fire occurs.
1.6 The main channels of the air conditioner must pass through vertical or horizontal corridors constructed from
non-combustible materials as a fire preventive unit with the presence of suitable openings with fire preventive
doors to facilitate the maintenance procedures.
1.7 When the air conditioning channels penetrate the fire preventive walls or roofs in the building, they should be of
the same fire resistance degree as the walls and are automatically closed due to a molten connection at
temperature ranging between (68oC - 84oC).
1.8 The channels of the central ventilation and air conditioning system should be equipped with smoke detectors
that automatically operate to stop the operation of the whole system when detecting smoke and at the same time
turn on suction fans to discharge the smoke from the building.
86
Passage Connect for Pumping Air
Air Pump Passage
Returned Air Passage
Doubled Passage
Box Filled with Air
Smoke Detector Installed at the Returned Air Passage
Figure 4-1
1.9 The insulating materials used in the wrapping of air channels from the inside and outside should be of the non-
combustible type with a thickness not less than (3 cm), and it is not permitted to use combustible materials.
1.10 Air conditioning channels may be wrapped with combustible material in special cases determined at the
discretion of the Civil Defense; provided that the following is taken into consideration:
1.10.1 The distance should be short.
1.10.2 They should pass through corridors constructed from non-combustible materials.
1.10.3 The flexible connections of air channels should meet the following requirements:
1.10.3.1 They should be made of a material that resists fire for at least half an hour.
1.10.3.2 They should not produce heavy smoke when being burned.
1.10.3.3 They should not exceed a length of (25 cm), if they are at the beginning of the channels near air propellers.
1.10.3.4 If they are at the end of the channels, their length should not exceed (4 m) and they should not penetrate a
fire preventive wall or ceiling; furthermore, they should not be placed in a location where a fire hazard
could occur such as kitchens and others.
1.11 In case the central air conditioning system is used for heating in addition to cooling, they should comply with
the preventive requirements regarding boilers and the storage and burning of liquid fuel.
1.12
2 Electrical Wiring
2.1 The specifications of electrical wiring should be in accordance with the specifications of the Ministry of
Electricity.
2.2 The electrical wiring and fittings should be intact in general so that they do not constitute a direct or indirect
reason for fire and the network should be equipped with electric shock prevention device which operates
automatically through the ground connection or any method recognized by the Ministry of Electricity.
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Electrical Feeding
Device Point Distribution Board General Delivery
Meter
Switch Point
Electric
Conductor
Neutral
Conductor
Ground
Conductor
Second Main
Sub-Circuit Circuit Main Circuit
Main Earthing Parts

for the Outlet
Figure 4-2
2.3 The cables with firm connections should be extended through preventive pipes that do not leave any room to
tamper with them.
2.4 Open electrical wiring are accepted only in limited cases and for short distance not exceeding (3 m); provided
that they are fixed and without any connections.
2.5 The connections which supply the devices and equipment with the current should be inside preventive, flexible
and firm pipes.
Core
External Cover
Conductor
Insulation Factor
One Line Cable
Figure 4-3
2.6 The wirings and the electrical devices existing in the locations which are used for storage of powders, liquids or
combustible gases should be of a flame preventive type and firmly sealed; so that no electrical spark will arise when
operating them and no gas will leak inside the fittings, such as keys and others, above 1.5 m of the floor level.
2.7 The light bulbs located at the storage locations should have a preventive cover made of grid and glass which
form a barrier preventing the movement of heat through radiation to the combustible materials.
88
2.8 If electrical generator exits in the building, it should be kept in a room specially constructed for this purpose
made from fire resistant materials for a period not less than (4) hours and isolated from the building as an
independent fire preventive unit, which meet the following requirements:
2.8.1 Its entrance is coming directly from outside.
2.8.2 Any existing openings in these units should not be connected with any section in the building.
2.8.3 A hole under the generator should be allocated for the collection of oil in case of its leakage so that it is easy to
discharge and clean.
2.8.4 It is preferred that the oil used for cooling is of the non-combustible type.
2.8.5 The room should be provided with separate ventilation.
2.8.6 The required safety equipment should be provided in accordance with the Civil Defense requirements.
2.9 The keys and sub-distribution boards should be placed in salient and easily accessible locations.
2.10 The main key and the main distribution board should be placed in a suitable location approved by the Civil
Defense; provided that:
2.10.1 They are near the main entrances.
2.10.2 It is preferred to be placed in isolated room from the building and opened to the outside.
Furthest Sub
Board Electricity
Outlet
Main Distribution Electrical Circuit for

Load Reduction
Board
Meter
Pressure at the
Furthest Point in
Load the Building
Reduction of Electrical Current helps to Protect from Electric Shocks
Figure 4-4
2.11 Distinguished boards and guides should be placed on main and sub-key locations; clarifying the field and use of
each of them.
2.12 The high pressure illuminant advertisements fixed on the facades and roofs should be provided with circuit
breaker key to be installed in a suitable location that does not allow any misuse, and they should be covered with a
glass plate that can be broken for use by the Civil Defense men during emergencies.
2.13 Necessary measures should be provided for protection from the static electricity risks and that is by leaking
electrical loads to the ground. These measures include placement of lighting preventive device in high buildings; in
accordance with the requirements of the Civil Defense and the Ministry of Electricity.
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3 Garbage Collection and Disposal
3.1 The garbage collection room should be constructed from non-combustible materials with fire resistance degree
not less than 4 hours; provided that its door is also of similar fire resistance degree and closes automatically.
3.2 Garbage transportation pipe should be constructed within the floors from non-combustible material and should
pass through a gap separated from other parts of the building by fire resistant walls.
3.3 The garbage room and the vertical pipe in major large buildings should be provided with automatic and manual
means for closing the pipe in cases of emergency and in accordance with the Civil Defense recommendations.
3.4 The pipe should be made of non-combustible material and have a fire resistance degree of 2 hours at least.
3.5 The pipe opening which receives the garbage from the floors should be closed by fire and smoke preventive
doors which close automatically.
4 Steam and Hot Water Boilers

4.1 The steam and hot water boilers should be installed, used and maintained in accordance with the Gulf Standard
Specifications “ Principles and Requirements for Examining and Testing Steam and Hot Water Boilers” with all its
parts and the special requirements prescribed by the Civil Defense.
4.2 The location of the boilers room is preferred to be facing the external wall of the building and if this is not
possible, it should be taken into account when selecting the location that the direction of the explosion discharge
must be towards the location with the least damage.
4.3 The boilers room should be constructed from fire resistant materials with resistance degree not less than 4 hours.
4.4 The entrance to the boilers room should be directly from outside; and if this is not possible, it should be taken
into account that the room will not constitute any fire hazard to the main exit path in the building.
4.5 The boiler room door should be of fire resistant type for a period not less than 4 hours and can be closed
automatically, in addition to placing a distinguishing sign on the door.
4.6 Sufficient natural ventilation should be provided to the boiler room in accordance with the ventilation and smoke
discharge requirements.
4.7 Electrical wiring should be of special flame preventive type.
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5 Electric Escalators
5.1 Each escalator requires study by the Civil Defense separately.
5.2 When installing electric escalators, it should be taken into account to prevent fire smoke spread through the
openings in these escalators.
Height 27” h X 1.96

30” h X 1.73
35” h X 1.43 max h X 6m
Height
Electric Escalators Measurements
Figure 4-6
An Illustration of the Electric Escalators
Figure 4-7
6 Elevators
6.1 The elevators should be installed, used and maintained in accordance with the Gulf Standard Specifications
regarding “the Elevators for People and Goods” and the special requirements issued by the Civil Defense.
6.2 It is strictly forbidden to overload the elevators by more than the authorized load.
6.3All the elevators should come back to the ground floor and open their doors in case of fire incident.
6.4 Fire Elevator

6.4.1 When the height of the building exceeds (28 m), one or more elevators should be allocated to be used by Civil
Defense men.
6.4.2 A special key should be provided for the fire elevator in order to control it during an emergency, and it should
be kept in a closed box with a glass cover fixed on the wall distinguished by a clear sign and placed in a suitable
location in the ground floor.
6.4.3It is more appropriate to supply the fire elevator with electric current from a source other than the one
supplying the building with electricity; so that the fire elevator will work even if the electrical current is down
during emergencies.
91
6.5 Elevator Shaft
6.5.1 The elevator shaft and the equipment and transformers room should be built from fire resistant materials with a
resistance degree not less than two hours.
6.5.2 The elevator shaft should be protected from the fire and smoke vertical movement to other floors.
6.5.3 The elevator shaft in the floors should face a space separated from the building by fire spread preventive walls
and doors that can be closed automatically.
6.5.4 An elevator shaft can be constructed in the stairwell as long as prevention requirements for fire protection are
provided.
6.5.5 The elevator shaft should not form part of the ventilation system in the building.
6.5.6 Sufficient ventilation should be provided for discharging the smoke if there is a fire incident in the elevator
shaft.
6.5.7 It is prohibited to use the elevator shaft for any other purpose other than elevators equipment.
6.5.8 It is prohibited to create any openings on the elevator shaft other than the allocated doors for the elevator.
6.5.9 It is prohibited to clad or paint the internal walls of the elevator shaft with non-fire resistant materials.
6.5.10A copy of the external door key of the elevator shaft should be handed over to the Civil Defense.
Machine Room
Machine Room
Cabin
Elevator Landing on
the Last Floor
Elevator Landing on
Cabin Illustration
the Ground Floor
Hole
Elevator’s Vertical Section
Figure 4-9 Figure 4-8
92
6.6 Elevator Machine Room
6.6.1 The elevator machine room should be constructed from non-combustible materials in accordance with Gulf
Standard Specifications “Electric Elevators for Individuals and Goods”.
6.6.2 It is prohibited to make any openings between the machine room and the elevator shaft, with the exception of
the openings designated for the ropes and other necessary extensions.
6.6.3 Sufficient ventilation and lightening should be provided to the machine room.
6.6.4 If the building’s stairs do not reach to the machine room level, stable and intact stairs should be provided from
non-combustible materials.
6.6.5 Fall protection barriers should be installed around the roof edges or the openings existing in the path of the
machine room.
6.6.6 A cabinet should be installed in the machine room with reinforced glass cover in order to maintain the manual
tools and equipment such as the following:
6.6.6.1 A handle to turn the wheel (if separated from the wheel).
6.6.6.2 A key to unscrew the wheel brakes.
6.6.6.3 A binder or clamp to fix the ropes on the reel.
6.6.6.4 The key of the external door elevator shaft.
6.6.6.5 Any other tools and equipment related to the elevator’s operation and light maintenance.
6.7 Elevator Cabin

6.7.1 The cabin’s frame and its internal cladding and paint should be made from non-combustible materials.
6.7.2 An internal door should be installed in the individuals’ elevator cabin, so that it will not operate before its
closure; in order to prevent the squeezing of the users' limbs or their clothes between the cabin and the elevator shaft
wall.
6.7.3 The ceiling of the individuals’ elevator cabin should be provided with an opening for rescue purposes
sufficient for the entrance or exit of a single person in accordance with Gulf Standard Specifications “Electric
Elevators for Individuals and Goods”.
6.7.4 The cabin should be provided with a ventilation fan suitable for the elevator’s size and capacity.
6.7.5 The individual elevators should be provided with notice boards including:
6.7.5.1 A board indicating that children under fourteen years of age are not allowed to use the elevator on their own
without being accompanied by an adult.
6.7.5.2 A board indicating that smoking is not permitted inside the elevator cabin.
6.7.5.3 A board indicating the permitted load of the elevator and the maximum number of users.
6.7.5.4 Placement of distinguishing signs on the keys “buttons” of the elevator cabin indicating the type of use.
6.7.5.5 A board indicating the agent name and his telephone number; in addition to the authority responsible for the
maintenance and its telephone numbers for emergencies.
93
6.8 Supplying Elevators with Electric Current
6.8.1 The electric current lines which supply the elevator with power and light should be controlled by a special
main switch breaker (other than the switch located in the machine room) at the main switches of the building (main
electric breakers in the building).
6.8.2 The electric current lines are connected with special electric circuit not linked with any services other than the
lift.
6.8.3 A special sign should be placed to indicate the electrical switches of the elevator.
6.9 Periodic Inspection and Maintenance on Elevators

6.9.1 After installing the elevator, it should be inspected and approved by a specialized technical examination and
inspection authority accredited by the Civil Defense, as stated in the Gulf Specifications.
6.9.2 Each elevator should be subject to regular service covering periodical maintenance works from authorities
experienced in elevators’ maintenance works and approved by competent authorities, such as the Civil Defense.
6.9.3 The record of the periodical maintenance and repair works and their dates should be kept in the elevator
machine room.
6.9.4 The authority responsible for the periodical maintenance works is also responsible for meeting the
maintenance requests for failures occurring to the elevator, and its services should be available throughout the day
(24 hours).
6.9.5 The authority responsible for the periodical maintenance and the authority responsible for the inspection
should immediately notify the official responsible authority in the following cases:
6.9.5.1 When an elevator maintenance contract is concluded or canceled.
6.9.5.2 When the inspector notices any defect that may affect the safety of elevator users.
6.9.5.3 When the building owner refuses to implement the required maintenance works.
6.9.6 The Civil Defense is the arbitrator for settling disputes that may arise between the relevant parties in this
regard or the violations that may occur to these requirements.
6.9.7 The building owner should take the necessary action to secure the safety of the elevator.
6.9.8 A responsible person such as the building’s guard or elevator operator should be trained on operating the
elevator in the normal conditions and how to act during emergencies and failures, in addition to notifying the
specialized maintenance authority and reporting to the Civil Defense in the event that they refuse to comply with the
maintenance request.
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7 Liquid Fuel Tanks
7.1 The liquid fuel tank should be buried underground; and if that is not possible, it should be kept in a room
separated from the building and provided with the fire protection requirements including:
7.2 The design of the supply pipes for fuel and oil burning equipment in general should be in accordance with the
specifications recognized by the GCC States for Arabian Gulf countries.
7.3 The tank should be stable and firm and does not permit any leakage or oozing.
7.4 The liquid fuel supply pipes should be made from firm and durable pipes that do not permit leakage.
7.5 The liquid fuel supply network should be provided with valves necessary for its closure at suitable locations; in
order to become easily accessible and identified by distinguished signs, the most important of which are the
following:
7.5.1 Main closure valve at the beginning of the line at the tank.
7.5.2 Main closure valve at fuel ignition device.
7.5.3 Automatic valve operated by heat impact installed outside the fuel ignition device room, in order to stop the
fuel supply to the ignition device when a fire occurs; and it operates through a molten connection or any other
suitable mean. Furthermore, other manual closure methods should be provided in order to be used if the automatic
valve is out of order.
7.6 The design of fuel ignition device should be provided with fire preventive means when being operated.
7.7 The wirings or their path should not be constructed near any heat source.
8 Liquid Fuel Tank Room

8.1 The stable fuel tank should be kept in special room constructed from fire resistant materials and with resistance
degree not less than 4 hours and it is preferred to bury the tank underground.
8.2 Sufficient natural ventilation should be provided to the liquid fuel tank room at the upper and lower levels of the
room in order to discharge of the vapors outside the building.
8.3 It is preferable that the room will be facing the external wall of the building.
8.4 The fuel tank room should be away from the boiler room in order to prevent heat movement thereto.
8.5 Electrical wiring should be of a special flame preventive type.
8.6 The room’s door should be of the fire resistant type with a resistance degree not less than 4 hours, which closes
automatically while fixing a distinguished sign thereon.
8.7 A sill should be constructed at the door with suitable height; so that it forms a basin with the walls enough to
reserve the amount of stored liquid with an increase of 10%.
95
9 Gaseous Fuel Tank
9.1 The extensions, storage and burning of gaseous fuel should be in conformity with the specifications and
requirements concerning the central gas system and the Civil Defense requirements in general.
9.2 The wirings and gas supply pipes should be painted in yellow color.
9.3 The gaseous fuel extensions network should be provided with main closure valve outside the building, if the
source is from the main gas pipelines in the city, and at the beginning of the line, if the source is normal gas
cylinders.
9.4 The gas pipeline network should be provided with sub-closure valves at the beginning and end of each flexible
connection in the building.
9.5 The gaseous fuel use locations should be provided with sensing devices for liquid fuel vapors and gases.
9.6 The main and sub-closure valves should be at a clear and easily accessible locations, subject to the approval of
the Civil Defense and provided with clear and distinguished signs.
9.7 The gas pipes and their path should not be constructed near any heat source.
10 Chimneys for Discharging Cooking and Heating Fumes

10.1 The furnaces, incinerators and their like from cooking and heating equipment should be provided with smoke
exits which lead outside.
10.2 The chimneys should be made from non-combustible materials and sufficient fire resistance degree.
10.3 If the chimneys location is inside the building, the internal surface should be cleared to facilitate the process of
removing accumulated carbon and any other deposits.
10.4 If the chimney is made of metal plates, its thickness should be sufficient, and the chimney connections should
be fixed firmly with the need to fix them on the surrounding walls using durable tension cables.
10.5 The chimney should be provided with openings for cleaning and inspections with suitable measurements in
accordance with the nature of the location especially at the curves (elbows).
10.6 The height of the chimney should be one meter over the highest point in the building, and 3 meters over the
highest point of the surrounding buildings, within a circle with a half diameter of (23) m.
10.7 The chimney should not be connected or close to low combustible materials.
96
11 Ventilation and Smoke Discharge
Ventilation and smoke discharge are addressed for the sake of prevention from fire according to the following
aspects:
 Ventilation for discharging smoke in order to secure the individuals’ safety and protect the building.
 Ventilation for discharging smoke in order to assist the Civil Defense men in fire control.
 Ventilation for disposing of combustible vapors, gases and powders.
11.1Ventilation for individuals’ safety: Sufficient ventilation should be provided in the exit path and in any part of
the building where people may gather.
11.2 Ventilation for Fire Control: Sufficient ventilation should be provided to dispose of combustible vapors, gases
or powders, so that their concentration in the air will not reach the burning or explosion degree, and the means of
this ventilation are as follows:
11.2.1 Pumping or providing local ventilation means at the various locations used for storage or operation of the
liquid ignition devices or burning gases.
11.2.2 Pumping or providing local ventilation means to the mechanical equipment and vapors as required by the
preventive requirements.
11.2.3Mechanical ventilation when the natural ventilation is not sufficient or inefficient.
11.3 The natural or mechanical ventilation process should be integrated in order to secure the required efficiency for
the renewal of air in the location within a certain or record period of time based on the size of the location, the type
of use and the contents, and in accordance with the fire preventive requirements. The concerned engineer should
submit the required study in this regard.
11.4 Natural or mechanical ventilation should be provided in all buildings and establishments.
11.5 The ventilation is carried out through openings in the ceiling, which remain opened constantly, and if it is
necessary to close them they should be equipped to be openable in the event of fire incident by any one of the
following means or any other mean approved by the Civil Defense.
11.5.1 Automatically: through a melting connection or an alarm system.
11.5.2 Manually: through an easy manual mean to be placed at a suitable height from ground level in an easily
accessible location approved by the Civil Defense.
11.5.3 Openings coverage: through plates made of quick melting material by the impact of the heat arising from the
fire in special cases to be determined by the Civil Defense.
11.5.4 The ventilation system calculation should be in accordance with the international systems and the Civil
Defense requirements.
97
Vertical Ventilation Opening Vertical Ventilation Opening
Side
Ventilation
Opening
Stored Goods
Storage Warehouse
Figure 4-10
12 The Fire Protection Requirements for the Central System of the Liquefied Gas Fuel
Used in Buildings:
They include gas extensions from the tank, cylinder or small gas station meter to the consumer’s locations; the
device provided from the tank is filled out in the same location using a tanker, unlike mobile gas cylinders which are
transported each time in order to be filled.
12.1 Estimation of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size

12.1.1 The size of the tank is estimated according to the highest withdrawl of gas per hour and the amount of the
required storage; in addition to the area of the location where the tank will be placed in accordance with the security
and safety requirements.
Size of the tank in liters: Monthly consumption amount in pounds X 1.5

0.7 X 1.272
As 70% of the size utilized for the tank = 0.7
(Maximum use is 58% of the tank size)
One liter of liquidated gas petroleum = 1.272 pounds.
12.2 Selection of the Central Fuel Gas Tank Size

12.2.1 The tank size is selected in accordance with the estimation and comparison with the manufactured sizes,
which range between (380 – 4880 liters) for residential projects and up to (15,000 liters) for commercial projects. It
is preferred that the size of the tank is sufficient for a period of ( 6 ) weeks, i.e. a month and a half in order to secure
safer gas supply to the consumer without interruption.
98
12.3 Specifications of the Central Fuel Gas Tank and Its Equipment
12.3.1 The tank should be made in accordance with standard international specifications. The tank is provided with
fittings set up on an area that permits the filling and use of the gas with complete safety. Such fittings should be
under a closed cover if the tank is at a fenceless location.
12.3.2 The central gas fuel tank contains the following fittings:
12.3.2.1 Gas level watch.
12.3.2.2 Small valve (1.5 mm or less) for monitoring the highest level when filling.
12.3.2.3 Closure valves on the lines connected with the tank, i.e. the filling and use lines with the addition of the
drawl monitoring valve on gas fuel line.
12.3.2.4 Discharge valve which should be of internal or external type; provided that the discharge is carried out at
the rate of one cubic meter per minute.
12.3.2.5 Monitoring valve on the filling line, if the filling point is above the tank surface. If the filling point is at the
end of the line connected with the tank, a second monitoring valve should be placed at the end of the line.
12.3.2.6 Gas level watch allows to the consumer to know the percentage of the liquid gas level.
12.3.2.7 First grade pressure regulator on the use line which provides the gas with the appropriate pressure for the
consumer. There is also a closure valve between the tank and pressure regulator, which separates the tank when
necessary, and that valve has a red color key.
Illustration of a gas tank
Figure 4-11
99
12.4 Selection of the Location of the Central Fuel Gas Tank
12.4.1 The tank should not be surrounded by anything at a distance of 60 cm under any circumstances.
12.4.2 Any opening in any building should be away from the tank wall at a distance not less than 1.5 m.
12.4.3 The distance from the tank wall to the property end line should not be less than 1.5 m and this distance may
be (60 cm) if there is a wall at the end of property line.
12.4.4 The distance from the tank wall to the point where combustible materials are located should not be less than
(3 m).
12.4.5 The distance from the tank wall to the burning point should not be less than (3 m).
12.4.6 The distance from the tank wall to the highway should not be less than (1.5 m); provided that a distance not
less than (3 m) should be kept from the tank fittings.
12.4.7 The distance from the tank fittings to the electrical equipment should not be less than (3 m), if they are of a
type not accepted to be used in a location susceptible to burning.
12.4.8 The distance from the tank fittings to the unprotected ground openings should not be less than (3 m).
12.4.9 The distance from the tank wall to the tank should not be less than (1.5 m) when filling.
12.4.10The separating distance between the tanks should not be less than (60 cm).
12.4.11When licensing for the construction or operation, the Civil Defense may request suitable preventive
alternatives in the selection of the central gas fuel tank location.
Window
Gas Tank Location
Opening
Door
1.5
3m Building
1.5 m
Combustible Materials
Highway
Filling Tank
Figure 4-12
100
12.5 The Central Fuel Gas Tank Fence
12.5.1 It should not be permitted to build more than two walls and the height of each wall should be suitable so that
the horizontal distance for any possible gas leak will not be less than the previously mentioned distances.
12.6 Prevention Requirements when Using (Mobile Liquefied Gas) Cylinders

12.6.1 The station should be composed of two cylinders through change-over regulator. If the station is to supply
multiple uses, the number of cylinders should not be less than four or six big-size types while selecting the suitable
size for the change-over regulator. The most used ones have a (100 pounds) and (50 pounds) capacity for operating
normal cookers.
12.7 Storage of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders

12.7.1 The cylinders must be placed in a vertical position and they should be stable so that it will not require more
protection. The distance between the cylinders and any opening in the building should not be less than (1 m) and the
heads of the cylinders and the regulator should be of height less than the windows line by 30 cm.
12.8 Regulator of Mobile Liquefied Gas Cylinders

12.8.1 The change-over regulator is connected with the cylinders through special hoses that reduce the pressure to
37mmb, if the regulator’s power is (4kg/hr.) at a single stage; or to 1.5b if the regulator is of a bigger size up to (40
kg/hr.); and then the regulator should reduce the pressure to 37mmb in the second stage.
12.8.2 When the operating cylinders run out, the change-over regulator withdraws gas from reserve cylinders and
isolates the empty cylinders.
12.9 Supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas through a Central Network

12.9.1 For supplying two or more locations from one tank, a meter should be installed with the second pressure
regulator at each consumption point. The gas should be distributed to the consumption point at a pressure of (1.5 b)
by the first pressure regulator which begins immediately after the tank. Each location should also be provided with a
second pressure regulator which includes several safety devices.
12.9.2 One of the qualities of second pressure regulators is the provision of safety inside the building through
monitoring the gas withdrawal and pressure; as they perform the role of the monitoring valve, which closes the gas
automatically whenever the pressure is changed from its normal level. If the regulator becomes defective, it should
be re-operated under the supervision of a specialized technician to ensure the safety of the extensions.
101
12.10 Prevention Requirements in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Supply Pipes (Extensions)
12.10.1 Materials:
12.10.1.1 The pipes should be of good quality type from iron or copper to supply the gas under an average pressure
(operation pressure 4b) and their manufacture should be in accordance with the recognized international
specifications.
12.10.1.2 The distribution should be in copper or iron pipes and the selection should be based on the size, and that is
for light pressure (operation pressure of 28, 37 or 50mmb). For example, if we wanted to provide short extensions
containing cookers, the proper selection will be to choose copper pipes (size 3/8 or ½ inch) manufactured in
accordance with the standard specifications.
12.10.1.3 This should be for the internal extensions that operate through light pressure.
12.10.1.4 Galvanized iron pipes may also be used for internal extensions which operate through light pressure for
industrial and commercial projects and also domestic projects.
12.10.2 Prevention Requirements for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Supply Pipes
12.10.2.1 The installation of the internal lines should be visible at high or low levels, or hung on the ceiling level, or
under the ground.
12.10.2.2The pipes may be installed in readymade lines located in the ground which should be protected from
corrosion by protective tape.
12.10.2.3 The pipes may be also tightened on the building wall at a high or low level until the consumption point.
12.10.2.4 In case of penetrating the wall, especially the double one, the pipe should pass straight through protective
pipe of greater size. The wall’s width should be estimated without any welding, and the gas pipe should be fitted in
the protective pipe in a manner that prevents gas from passing from the first pipe to the second one or from the latter
to the wall or the ground. The gap between the two pipes should be filled with flabby materials and a barrier at the
edges.
12.10.2.5 Regardless of the gas pipe passage method, it should be accurately tightened and tied to the wall.
12.10.2.6In case of placing the gas pipe directly in a ditch, its gravel-free flatten depth should not be less than (50
cm) so that the pipe protection will not be corrupted.
102
12.10.3 Prevention Requirements in the Selection of the Location of the Liquefied Petroleum
Gas Supply Pipes
12.10.3.1 If the liquidated petroleum gas supply pipes are underground, the distance which separates the gas pipe
from other services lines should not be less than the following:
12.10.3.1.1 (30 cm) from petroleum, water and sewerage lines.
12.10.3.1.2 (20 cm) from electrical cables.
12.10.3.3 If the liquidated petroleum gas supply pipes are visible, the distance that separates the gas pipe from other
service lines should not be less than the following:
12.10.3.3.1(3 cm) if it is parallel to electrical line, steam or hot water line…etc.
12.10.3.3.2 (1 cm) if it is crossing electrical line, steam or hot water line…etc.
12.10.3.3.3If the pipe is buried under the ground or in a wall, the distance of the pipe from the final surface (depth)
should not be less than (1 cm).
12.10.4 Prevention Requirements in Connecting the incinerators with the Liquefied

12.10.4.1 The incinerators should be connected with copper or iron pipes and a nut should be fitted to facilitate the
dismantling and fitting in future.
12.10.4.2 Rubber hoses may be used after the second regulator for low pressure; provided that the length of the hose
should not exceed 6 feet (180 cm).
12.10.4.3 A valve should be provided to each gas device, and it should be close to it to facilitate its isolation and
disconnection without interrupting gas supply to other devices. This valve should be in accordance with recognized
specifications in order to be valid for use in the liquefied gas supply lines.
12.11 General Preventive Precautions for fire protection for the Central Liquidated
Petroleum Gas System
12.11.1 The Civil Defense should be notified about the precautionary means against fire at the project design stage,
the implementation stages and after the operational stage.
12.11.2 All extensions of the central gas system should be tested with the suitable pressure to ensure that they are
fully accurate and free of any defects or shortcomings before operating them with gas.
12.11.3 Appropriate alarm and extinguishing systems should be provided for the liquidated petroleum gas and
placed in strategic locations near the gas station.
12.11.4 Warning signs should be placed for the safety of the area surrounding the tank such as “no smoking”; in
addition to sentences indicating the presence of gas tanks and locations that do not tolerate combustible materials…
etc.
12.11.5 The internal kitchens should be provided with alarm devices against gas leakage. These devices
automatically disconnect the gas supply in the event of gas leakage.
103
Chapter Five
Fire Prevention and
Protection Requirements in
Assembly Buildings
Index
Chapter Five
Chapter Five: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Page Symbol
Assembly Buildings
106 1 Definition
106 2 Fire Hazard
106 4 Mixed Use
107 6.3 *Wideness
108 6.6 *Corridors
108 6.7 *Exits
109 6.8 *Staircase
109 6.9 *Final Exit
111 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Cinemas and Theatres”
Index of Tables
Chapter Five
Table Table Name
Page
No.
108 5-1 Number of Exits from the Audience Halls in Cinemas and Theaters
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Assembly Buildings according to Category,
110 5-2
Requirements of the Fire-Fighting Water Sprinklers at the Assembly
110 5-3
Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
111 5-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Assembly Buildings
105
Chapter Five
1 Definition
1.1 They are buildings or parts thereof allocated for accommodating (50) people or more for entertainment, culture,
sports or presentation purposes, such as:
*Houses of Worship *Courts
*Lecture Halls *Meeting Halls
*Galleries *Bank Halls
*Museums and Cinemas *Major Libraries
*Sports Clubs *Covered Playgrounds
1.2 Assembly buildings are divided in terms of absorptive capacity into the following categories:
1.2.1 Category (A): Buildings that include more than 1000 people.
1.2.2 Category (B): Buildings that include between 300 – 1000 people.
1.2.3 Category (C): Buildings that include between 50 – 300 people.
2 Fire Hazard: Fire Hazard Classification in the Buildings

Assembly buildings considered as light hazards.
3 Structural Requirements
3.1 Preventive precautionary requirements should be applied in the engineering fields in general in order to secure
the safety of the structural frame from fire hazards.
3.2 The validity of the buildings in terms of their structural aspect for their use for the assemblies’ purposes should
be determined in accordance with Table No. 1-2 “Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire”.
4 Multi-Purpose Use
4.1 In case the assembly building is used for other purposes or if the assembly forms a part of buildings with other
use, they should be separated from each other to constitute a fire section provided with independent means of
escape.
4.2 The buildings of Category (A) or their parts should not be engaged in any other type of use, with the exception
of the attached uses associated with the assembly’s nature such as restaurants, cafeterias etc. Other than that,
each case is studied separately and the Civil Defense decides what it sees fit in this regard.
106
5 Control of Fire Spread: The General Requirements for Preventive Precautions should be
applied in the Engineering Fields in addition to these Requirements.
5.1Various sections in the assembly building should be separated from each other and each of them will be
considered as an independent fire section; such as the audience hall, theater, waiting hall, dressing room, cast and
decoration rooms. The multiuse locations should also be separated.
5.2 Vertical Spread: Each floor is considered as an independent fire section. Special requirements should be applied
if there is an atrium.
5.3 External Spread: The preventive precautionary requirements should be applied in the engineering fields with
regard to the distance between the buildings and the external walls.
5.4 Arrival of Civil Defense Machinery: The arrival of Civil Defense machinery and equipment to the assembly
buildings should be facilitated.
5.4.1 A road or path should be made available to reach the area surrounding the assembly buildings, so that the Civil
Defense machinery can access at least two facades of the building overlooking the building’s main entrance.
5.4.2 Designated parking lots should be made available for the machinery and vehicles of the Civil Defense around
the building in accordance with the requirements of the chapter concerning the site organization.
6 Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)

6.1 The general requirements for the means of escape (Emergency Exits) should be applied in addition to these
requirements.
6.1.1 The means of escape from the assembly hall should be completely independent from the other sections in
buildings of Category (A) and (B); such as theaters, cast rooms, warehouses, workshops… etc., which should be
provided with completely independent means of escape leading directly outside.
6.1.2 All means of escape should be protected from fire as (fire sections) constructed from non-combustible
materials with fire resistance degree not less than one hour and fire preventive doors for one hour that close
automatically.
6.1.3 In all buildings of Categories (A) and (B), the access to the exit or stairs should be through a space protected
from fire in accordance with the requirements.
6.2 Absorption Capacity (Assimilation): The assimilation is estimated in accordance with the contents of the Means
of Escape Chapter Table No 3-4, and the number of seats should be taken into consideration if they are fixed. As for
the other multiple uses if they are independent such as restaurants, each use should be calculated separately.
6.3 Wideness: The measurement of the means of escape’s width should be calculated based on the persons who use
them as indicated in the means of escape chapter.
107
6.4 Movement Distance: The movement distance from any point to reach the final exit or protected stairs should not
exceed the following figures:
6.4.1 The movement distance from any point to the final exit or the protected stairs in a hall with comfortable seats
is (20 m).
6.4.2 The movement distance from any point to the final exit or the protected stairs in a hall with normal seats is (15
m).
6.4.3 The movement distance from any point to the stairs or the protected exit in an open multi-purpose hall is (30
m).
6.5 The direct distance from any point to the exit or the protected stairs in small halls is (15 m); provided that its
absorptive capacity should not exceed (30) people.
6.5.1 The direct distance from any point to the exit or the protected stairs in the rooms or sections attached to the
theater is (7.5 m).
6.5.2 In the large multi-purpose halls, which are opened without partitions, such as exhibition halls and celebration
halls, the direct distance may exceed (30 m); provided that the stairs and exits are distributed around the building
and the distance between them does not exceed (60 m).
6.6 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors should be provided in addition to these conditions:
6.6.1 The corridors should be organized and properly leveled so that they would lead directly to the exits.
6.6.2 The graded corridors should be provided with barriers (railing) in accordance with the requirements.
6.6.3 The width of the corridors should be sufficient to absorb the flow of the people who use them; provided that
they should not be less than (2 m) for main corridors and (1.5 m) for sub-corridors.
6.7 Exits: The general requirements of the exits should be provided as indicated in means of escape (Emergency
Exits) chapter.
6.7.1 The number of exits should be in accordance with the general requirements and the attached sections such as
theater stage, cast rooms, employees, warehouse, workshop… etc. The following Table No. 5-1 indicates the
number of exits for audience halls in the cinemas, theaters and lectures halls
Number of Exits from the Audience Halls in Cinemas and Theaters

Seat Type Number of People Number of Exits Exit Width
3000 4
Normal 600 – 1000 3 Depending on the number
50 – 300 2 of people
Comfortable ----- 2 180 cm
Figure 5-1
108
6.7.2 The hall exists should be independent from the rest of sections, especially the theater, and lead directly outside.
6.8 Staircase: The general requirements of the means of escape should be applied in addition to these requirements.
6.8.1 The number of stairs should not be less than two stairs for each floor.
6.8.2 The stairs should be protected and separated from the building by an isolation space protected from fire and
leads directly outside.
6.8.3 The width of the stairs should be sufficient for the people who use it, and should not be less than the total
width of the corridors leading thereto.
6.8.4 If it is permitted to use the assembly halls in the upper or lower floors of the buildings, the stairs should have a
larger width and the landing should have a large area for resting.
6.9 Final Exit: Under all circumstances the means of escape should lead to a final exit leading directly outside.
6.9.1 In the Category (C) buildings or their parts, half of the means of escape may end at a location inside the
building if general requirements for the means of escape are met.
7 Fire-Fighting and Alarm Equipment: The preventive precautions should be provided

for the engineering services, in accordance with the general requirements for
engineering services.
7.1Firefighting and alarm equipment and engineering services should be provided for protection from fire in the
assembly buildings.
7.2 The firefighting and alarm equipment should be in accordance with the requirements of Part Two in terms of
design, implementation and maintenance.
7.3 When licensing, the Civil Defense may request additional equipment as an alternative for some required
preventive precautions in accordance with the requirements.
109
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Assembly Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Types Required Cases
1- Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
A- Manual Extinguishers All floors
2- Fixed Installations:
A- Rubber Hoses Network All floors
More than 4 floors and with a height less than 30 m or
B- Dry Hydrants Network
two floors with a total area exceeding 1000 m2
With a height more than 30 m or more than two floors
C- Moist Hydrants Network
with area exceeding 1000 m2 per floor.
D- External Hydrants Network According to the size of the building
3- Automatic Systems
According to Table No. 5-3 “Requirements of the Fire-
A-Automatic Water Sprinklers Network
Fighting Water Sprinklers at the Assembly Buildings”
B- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Other Special hazard locations where it is not possible to use
Materials water.
4- Fire Alarm Systems:
A- Manual Alarm Network In multi-purpose halls and corridors
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors
Table No. 5-2
Requirements of the Fire-Fighting Water Sprinklers at the Assembly Buildings

According to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Category Number of People Floor Structural Sprayers
Classification Requirements
Basement All Types Required
rd
More than 1000 Ground to 3 Floor First Type Unrequired
A
People Fourth Floor and
All Types Required
above
300 – 1000 People
B Ground and First First and Second
Unrequired
Floor Type Only
Ground and First Types: First, Second

Unrequired
50 – 300 People Floor and Fourth
C
Fifth Floor
Ground Floor Temporarily and Required
special conditions
Table No. 5-3
110
8 Engineering Services: They should comply with the Contents of the Engineering
Services Chapter while focusing on Table No. 5-4
8.1 Ventilation in the Theater Area: A ventilation system should be provided in accordance with the international
specifications and approved by the Civil Defense in the theater area.
8.2 The Civil Defense may request additional equipment or as alternative to other preventive requirements.
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Assembly Buildings

Type Required Cases
1- Engineering Services for Fire Prevention
According the International Specifications approved by
1 Ventilation System
the Civil Defense
2 Illuminated Guide Signs Basement and Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
3 Emergency Lighting Network Basement and Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)
4 Electricity Reserve Source If the height exceeds 6 floors or 20m whichever is less
5 Fire Elevator If the height exceeds 6 floors or 20m whichever is less
In accordance with the preventive requirements in the
6 Automatic Fire Doors
engineering fields.
Table No. 5-4
9 Special Preventive Conditions

9.1 As for the cinemas and theater, each case should be studied separately in order to recommend the appropriate
requirements. The American (N.F.P.A 101) requirements or the international specifications can be as a reference for
further details for these buildings, in addition to the following requirements:
9.1.1 Seats: The seats installation should be organized as follows:
9.1.1 Measurements:
9.1.1.1 Net distance between seats rows is (30 cm) of the normal type.
9.1.1.2 Net distance between comfortable seats rows is (50cm), if the number of seats is (25) or less.
9.1.1.3 Net distance between comfortable seats rows is (60cm), if the number of seats exceeds (45) seats.
9.1.2 Number of Seats:
9.1.2.1 Number of seats in each row should be (4) at least.
9.1.2.2 Number of seats in each row is (7) at most when they face one corridor for the seats of the normal type.
9.1.2.3 Number of seats in each row is (14) at most when they face two corridors.
9.1.2.4Number of comfortable seats per row is (100) at most when they face two corridors.
111
9.1.2.5 The number of normal seats per row can be increased to (11) seats facing one corridor if the distance
between the seats is increased by (25) mm for each seat.
9.1.2.6 The number of normal seats per row can be increased to (22) seats facing two corridors if the distance
between the seats is increased by (25) mm for each seat.
9.1.3 Fixing
9.1.3.1 The seats should be fixed on the ground firmly and permanently all the halls allocated for the public such as
the cinemas, theaters, lecture halls, and their like.
9.1.3.2 In other cases where it is not possible to fix the seats permanently, alternative measures should be taken such
as:
9.1.3.2.1 Tightening the seats together in groups of not less than 4 seats per group and each case should be studied
separately.
9.1.4 Flooring:
9.1.4.1 The inclination angle of ground surface at the base should exceed (35) degrees horizontally.
9.2 In multi-purpose halls which can be used as exhibitions, preventive requirements in commercial buildings should
be applied in addition to the following requirements:
9.2.1 The exhibition areas should be organized so that organized corridors will be maintained according to these
requirements.
9.2.2 The shelves and carriers should be made of non-combustible materials.
9.2.3 Suitable guide signs and firefighting equipment should be made available.
9.2.4 The Civil Defense should be consulted in the event of temporary or seasonal exhibitions in order to obtain the
appropriate preventive guidance and recommendations.
112
Chapter Six
Fire Prevention and
Index
Chapter Six
Chapter Six: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Page Symbol
116 1 Definition
116 2 Fire Hazard
117 4 Mixed Use
117 6.3 *Wideness
118 6.6 *Corridors
118 6.7 *Exits
119 6.8 *Ramps
119 6.9 *Staircase
114
Index of Tables
Chapter Six
Table Table Name
Page
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in
116 6-1
Educational Purposes
118 6-2
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Educational Buildings according to
120 6-3
121 6-4 Distribution of Fire Alarm Equipment in Educational Buildings
121 6-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Educational Buildings
115
Chapter Six
1 Definition of Educational Buildings
1.1 The buildings or their parts allocated for education purposes, which accommodate (6) regular students for a
period not less than (4) hours per day and (12) hours per week, such as kindergartens and (preparatory,
elementary, until secondary schools, professional and applied institutions, and the like).
1.2 As for specialized schools for educating the people with disabilities (students with special needs), each case
should be studied separately to apply the appropriate additional preventive requirements according to the cases.
3.1 The preventive precautionary requirements must be applied in engineering areas in general to provide safety for
the construction frame from fire hazards.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in educational purposes should be
determined in accordance with Table No. 1-2 “Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire” and the
following Table 6-1 “The Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in Educational
Purposes”.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in Educational Purposes according to Area,
Construction Classification Area and Height
First Type Suitable for all cases
Suitable for buildings with a height not exceeding
Second and Fourth Type
two floors
Temporary buildings not exceeding an area of a single
Third and Fifth Type
class in accordance with special requirements.
Table No. 6-1
3.3 The following requirements should be taken into account when determining the location of the classrooms in a
building:
3.3.1 Classrooms for children below elementary level should not be in a basement or above the ground level.
3.3.2 The lower elementary classrooms should not be in a floor higher than the first floor.
3.3.3 The classrooms can be in a basement; provided that stairs or an exit should be provided on the external wall
leading directly outside and protected with automatic water sprinklers network.
3.3.4 All classrooms should be directly facing the external facade of the building.
116
4 Mixed Use
4.1 In case the educational buildings form a part of buildings with other use, they should be separated from each
other to constitute independent fire section provided with independent means of escape.
4.2 The mixed use that may contain high fire hazard or an industrial purpose should not be permitted.
4.3 The parts allocated for the buildings or their parts allocated for other purposes should be separated from each
other.
4.4 The buildings or their parts allocated for purposes other than education should be treated in accordance with
their type of use.
5 Control of Fire Spread: General requirements for preventive precautions in the

engineering field should be applied in addition to these requirements
5.1 Horizontal Spread: The fire section area should not exceed (2000 m2) and there should be a space separating the
various areas of use.
5.1.1 Various areas of use should be separated from each other and each one should be considered as a separate fire
section.
5.1.2 Hazard sites or locations should be separated.
5.1.3 Every classroom should be considered as a secondary independent fire section.
5.2 Vertical Spread: Vertical spread control requirements should be applied with regard to the preventive
requirements for residential buildings.
5.3 External Spread: External spread control requirements should be applied with regard to the preventive
5.4 Arrival of Civil Defense Machinery: The arrival of Civil Defense machinery should be facilitated to the
educational buildings.

6.1 The general requirements for the means of escape should be applied in addition to these requirements.
6.2 Absorptive Capacity (Assimilation): The assimilation is estimated in accordance with the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter – Table No. 3-4; and as for the locations for other uses, the assimilation of each location
is determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
6.3 Wideness: The width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number of people who use them
as indicated in Means of Escape (Emergency Exit) Chapter.
6.4 Movement Distance: The movement distance from any point to the final exit or the protected stairs should not be
less than the figures indicated in Table No. 6-2.
6.5 The direct distance from any point inside the classrooms to the exit or the protected stairs should not exceed (15
m) and not more than (10 m) in the basement.
117
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Educational Buildings
Location Distance in Meters Floor Cases and Remarks

Direct Distance 15 Ground Floor ---
Inside a Classroom 10 Basement ---
In case of more than one
Movement Distance from 15 Basement
exit
The Classroom Door or In case of Internal
20 Other Floors
Exit Corridors
In case of Exterior
Or the Protected Stairs 30 Other Floors
Corridors
Closed End 6 Any Floor In case of a closed end
Table 6-2
6.6 Corridors: The general requirements should be provided as indicated in the Means of Escape Chapter in addition
to these requirements:
6.6.1 The corridors should be organized and properly leveled in order to lead directly outside.
6.6.3 The width of the corridors should be sufficient to absorb the people who use them; provided that they should
not be less than (2 m) for main corridors and (1.5 m) for sub-corridors.
6.6.4 Corridors should be external as much as possible. If this is not possible they may be internal; provided that
they are constructed in accordance with the preventive precautionary requirements in the structural fields.
6.6.5 Corridors inside the classrooms should not be less than (1.10 m) per corridor which serves two rows of seats
and (90 cm) for the one which serves a single row.
6.6.6 Any seat should not be far from the internal corridor by more than a distance of six seats.
6.7 Exits: The general requirements for exits should be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) chapter.
6.7.1 All exits should lead directly outside or to the fire protected stairs or corridor which is separated from the
building by an insulated space.
6.7.2 The number of exits should be in accordance with the general requirements; provided that they will not be less
than two distant exits at the edges of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads outside.
6.7.3 Each class should be provided by two distant exits leading outside or to a protected corridor leading to two
exits in the following cases:
6.7.3.1 If the class absorption capacity exceeds (50) students.
6.7.3.2 If the class absorption exceeds (30) children (Kindergarten).
6.7.3.3 If the class area exceeds (90m2) or its depth is (15m).
118
6.7.4 The windows allocated for ventilation should be of an area not less than (0.5m2) (50cm width x 60cm height)
and the step height from tile surface is (110cm) so that it can be used for rescue works. They should be easily
opened from the inside without the need for special tools or locks.
6.8 Ramps: Ramps should be provided in the educational buildings to be used by the people with disabilities.
6.9 Staircase: The general requirements for the means of escape (Emergency Exits) should be applied in addition to
these requirements:
6.9.1 The number of stairs should not be less than two stairs for each floor separated at the far edges of the building
and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside.
6.9.2 The stairs should be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space which is protected from
fire and leads directly outside.
6.9.3 The width of the stairs should be sufficient for the number of people who use them and should not be less than
the total width of the corridors leading to them.
6.9.4 If the assembly halls in the upper or lower floors of the building are permitted to be used, the stairs should
have a greater width and the landing must have a large area for resting.
6.10 Final Exit: Under any circumstances, all means of escape should lead to a final exit that leads directly outside.
6.10.1 The sections with other types of use in the educational buildings should be treated in accordance with their
special requirements or the higher ones whichever has the highest prevention capacity.
7 Fire-Fighting and Alarm Equipment

7.1 A manual alarm device should be installed in multi-purpose halls, management corridors and closed classes
corridors at all levels with the exception of the open classes.
7.2 Automatic alarm device should be installed in multi-purpose halls, workshops, laboratories, libraries and
warehouses; in addition to locations of special hazards and the air conditioning and basement ducts at all the levels.
7.3 A general alarm means (in the form of a whistle or bell) should be installed so that it could be heard in all parts
of the school with a distinguished voice or verbal messages operated by the management.
7.4 The fire-fighting and alarm equipment should be in accordance with the requirements of Part Two or the Civil
Defense Directory in terms of design, implementation and maintenance.
7.5 When licensing, the Civil Defense may request additional equipment as an alternative for some preventive
precautions required in accordance with the requirements.
119
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Educational Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Types Required Cases
1- Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
A- Manual Extinguishers All floors
2- Fixed Installations:

More than 3 floors and with a height less than 30 m or
B- Dry Hydrants Network
two floors with a total area exceeding 1000 m2
With a height more than 30 m or more than two floors
C- Moist Hydrants Network
with area exceeding 1000 m per floor.
D- External Hydrants Network In the yards of the universities and high institutes
3- Automatic Systems
Basement, upper floors exceeding 4 floors, and buildings
A-Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Firefighting
constructed from the third and fifth type
B- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Other Special hazard locations where it is not possible to use
Materials water.
4- Fire Alarm Systems:
In multipurpose halls, management corridors, closed
A- Manual Alarm Network classes corridors at all levels with the exception of open
classes corridors
In workshops, laboratories, libraries, multi-purpose halls
B- Automatic Alarm Network with manual alarm; in addition to special hazard
locations, and air conditioning and basement ducts.
Table No. 6-3
120
Distribution of Fire Alarm Equipment in Educational Buildings
Education System Buildings Sections Remarks
Level Type Closed Hall Laboratory Workshop Library Management
Classes Corridors
Corridors
General alarm
Manual * * *
Kindergarten system (like a
* whistle or bells
at
Manual * least) should
Elementary be
Automatic * installed to be
heard in all
Manual * parts
Intermediate of the school
Automatic * * * * with
a distinguish
Manual * * voice
or verbal
Secondary messages
Automatic * * * * operated by the
management
Table No. 6-4
8 Engineering Services: The requirements stated in the Engineering Services Chapter must be
complied with while focusing on what has been stated in Table No. 6-5
8.1 The Civil Defense can request additional equipment or as an alternative for some other preventive precautions.
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Educational Buildings

Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
4 Electricity Reserve Source Universities
engineering fields.
Table No. 6-5
121
Chapter Seven
Fire Prevention and
Index
Chapter Seven
Page Symbol Chapter Seven: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
124 1 Definition
124 2 Fire Hazard
125 4 Mixed Use
126 6.3 *Wideness
126 6.6 *Corridors
126 6.7 *Exits
126 6.8 *Ramps
127 6.9 *Staircase
Index of Tables
Chapter Seven
Page Table Table Name
No.
124 7-1 Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as
126 7-2 Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for
128 7-3 Fire-Fighting Equipment for Caretaking Buildings according to Category,
129 7-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Caretaking Buildings
123
Chapter Seven
Fire prevention and Protection Requirements in Caretaking Buildings
1 Definition: Educational buildings:
Buildings or their parts allocated for the health and social care purposes, whose occupants are unable to move or
detained with limited movement, and it include hospitals, elderly care homes, nurseries, social care homes for
children, mental health facilities and prisons of all categories.
1.1 Health Care Buildings: The buildings or their parts allocated to provide health services, and provide at least
four beds for the patients to sleep. It is well known that those who attend these places are unable to protect
their lives due to old age, or because they are suffering from physical or mental illnesses, including
convalescence buildings, ambulances and emergency buildings.
1.2 Social Care Buildings: The buildings or their parts allocated to provide social care, and provide at least four
beds for the hospitalization of the disabled, the elderly, or infants as in nurseries.
1.3 Social Rehabilitation Buildings (Prisons): The buildings where prisoners live, or detained for more than one
day (24 hours), and are considered unable to rescue themselves or their lives in case of fire, because they
could not get out or escape, and they include prisons of all kinds and sizes, and detention rooms.
2 Fire Hazard: The fire hazard in the caretaking buildings is classified as a light hazard.
3 Structural Requirements:
3.1 The preventive precautionary requirements should be generally applied in the engineering fields to provide
safety for the construction frame from fire hazards.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in caretaking purposes should be
determined in accordance with Table No.1-2 “Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire”
and the following Table 7-1 “The Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in
Caretaking Purposes”.
The Validity of Buildings in terms of their Structural Aspect to be used in Caretaking Purposes
Structural Classification Area and Height
First and Second Types Higher than 2 floors
First, Second, and Fourth Types 2 floors
All Types, and the Fifth Type is on a Temporary Basis One floor
and with Special Conditions
Table No. 7-1
3.3 The requirements of other competent authorities must be taken into account, and the specialists at the Civil
Defense should coordinate this matter with the Ministry of Health concerning the health care buildings,
with the Ministry of Social Affairs concerning the nurseries, and with the Ministry of Interior concerning
the Social Rehabilitation buildings.
124
4 Mixed Use
4.1 In the event that the caretaking buildings are a part of buildings with other uses, they should be separated
from each other to become an independent fire section provided with independent means of escape.
4.2 Mixed-use is not permitted for the type involving a high fire hazard or industrial purpose.
4.3 The parts allocated for the buildings or their parts allocated for other purposes should be separated from
each other.
4.4 The means of escape allocated to care buildings, or their parts, should be independent and separate from the
other parts, and lead directly outside.
5 Control of Fire Spread: General requirements for preventive precautions in the engineering field
should be applied in addition to these requirements
5.1 Horizontal Spread: Fire Section area must not exceed (2000m2).
5.1.1 Various areas of use should be separated from each other and each one should be considered as a
separate fire section.
5.1.2 The hazard areas or locations must be separated from each other.
5.1.3 Any floor or part of the floor used for treatment, sleeping, or its absorption capacity exceeds (50
people), or any of its sides exceeds (45 meters), is considered a secondary independent fire section.
5.2.1 The vertical gap, such as: Atriums, stairwells and elevator shafts must be separate from the building
by fire preventive walls and doors.
5.2.2 The middle gap (Atrium) is excluded if the following conditions are met:
5.2.2.1 The height of the middle gap should not exceed (6 meters).
5.2.2.2 An automatic water sprinklers network should be provided for fire-fighting, or a system to prevent the spread
of fire and smoke horizontally, approved by the Civil Defense.
5.2.2.3 Provide approved overhead ventilation.
caretaking buildings.

requirements.
6.2 Absorptive capacity (Assimilation): The assimilation is estimated in accordance with the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter – Table No. 3-4; and as for the locations for other uses, the assimilation of each
location is determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
125
6.3 Wideness: Measurement of the width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number of
people who use them as stated in the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the width
of the main corridors should not be less than (240 cm) under any circumstances.
6.4 Movement Distance: The movement distance from any point to the final exit or the protected stairs should
not be less than the figures indicated in Table No. 7-2.
6.5 Direct Distance: The direct distance should not exceed 15 meters, from any point inside the hospitalization
rooms or suites to the exit or the protected stairs, and should not exceed 10 meters in basement.
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Caretaking Buildings
Location Distance in Floor Cases and Remarks
Meters
The direct distance inside the 15 Ground ---
bedrooms or Suites Floor
The movement distance from 20 Any floor Presence of more than one exit, and
bedrooms’ or Suites’ door to the the existence of internal corridors
exit or the protected stairs
Closed end 7.5 Any floor In case of closed-end
Table No. 7-2
6.6 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors should be available as stated in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the main corridors should not be less than (240cm) under any
circumstances.
6.7 Exits: The general requirements for Exits must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) Chapter.
6.7.1 Two separate exits should be available on each floor.
6.7.2 Number of exits must be in accordance with the general requirements, so that they are not less than
two exits separated on the far edges of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads
outside.
6.7.3 All exits must lead directly outside, or to a staircase or a corridor protected from fire and separated
from the building by an insulated space.
6.7.4 In each room or suite, two separate exits should be provided leading outside or to a protected corridor
leading into two exits, in the following cases:
6.7.4.1 If the movement distances exceed the ones mentioned in the previous table.
6.7.4.2 If the movement distance exceeds (90 meters).
6.7.4.3 If the bedroom or suite area exceeds (230 m2).
6.8 Ramps: Ramps must be provided in the caretaking buildings, according to the general requirements of
means of escape (emergency exits), and depending on the conditions of use of the caretaking buildings, in
coordination with the competent authorities.
126
6.9 Staircase: The general requirements of Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) Chapter should be applied in
addition to these requirements:
6.9.1 The number of stairs should not be less than two stairs for each floor separated at the far edges of the
building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside.
6.9.2 Staircases must be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space protected from the
fire, leading directly outside.
6.10 Horizontal Exits: Temporary shelter area must be provided in all caretaking buildings, which having more
than two floors or where the space of the floor exceeds 2000m2.
6.10.1 With the exception of floors and sections allocated for sleeping, (50%) of the means to escape may
end up in a safe location inside the building.
6.11 Final Exit: The sections with other types of use in the caretaking buildings should be treated in accordance
with their special requirements or the higher ones, whichever has the highest prevention capacity.
6/11/2 Locks are permitted in the health care homes for the mentally insane and the social care homes for
prisoners and detainees; provided that there is permanent guarding around the clock allowing the transfer of
building’s users to other safe locations in cases of emergency.
7 Fire-fighting and Alarm Equipment: Preventive precautions must be provided in the engineering
services according to the general requirements for the engineering services, in addition to the
conditions set out in Tables 7-3
7.1 Fire-fighting and alarm equipment should be according to the terms of Part II or the Civil Defense
Directory, in terms of design, implementation and maintenance.
7.2 Civil Defense may request additional or alternative equipment for some required preventive precautions in
accordance with the requirements.
127
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Caretaking Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required cases
1-Manual Fire-Fighting Equipment
Manual Extinguishers All floors
2- Fixed installations
B- Dry Hydrant Network More than 3 floors and with a height less than 30 m
or two floors with a total area exceeding 1000 m2
C- Moist Hydrant Network With a height more than 30 m or more than two
floors with area exceeding 1000 m2 per floor.
D- External Hydrants Network Depends on the size of the building
3- Automatic Fixed Systems
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basement and suites, if the building has more than
Firefighting two floors, and the buildings constructed from the
third and fifth types.
B- Automatic Sprinklers Network for Other Special hazard locations where it is not possible to
Materials use water.
4- Fire Alarm Equipment
A- Manual Alarm Network All floors
B- Automatic Alarm Network In bedrooms, suites, and corridors; in addition to
special hazard locations, air conditioning and
basement ducts.
8 Engineering Services: The requirements stated in the Engineering Services Chapter must be complied with
while focusing on what has been stated in Table No. 7-4
8.1 The Civil Defense can request additional equipment or as an alternative for some other preventive
precautions.
8.2 The alternatives for the required equipment in the mental health homes, and the social care buildings,
particularly nurseries and social rehabilitation (prisons), are defined in coordination with the Civil Defense
and the competent authority.
128
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Caretaking Buildings
Type Required Cases

the Civil Defense
4 Electricity Reserve Source All caretaking buildings
engineering fields.
Table No. 7-4
129
Chapter Eight
Fire Prevention and
Residential Buildings
Index
Chapter Eight
133 1 Residential Buildings Sections according to the Type of Use
133 First Preventive Conditions for Collective Residential Buildings
133 1.1 Definition of Collective Residential Buildings
133 2 Fire Hazard
134 4 Joint Use
135 6.2 *Wideness
135 6.5 *Corridors
136 6.6 *Exits
136 6.7 *Ramps
136 6.8 *Staircase
142 Second Fire Prevention Requirements in Private Residential Buildings
142 1.2 Definition of Private Residential Buildings
142 2 Fire Hazard
131
142 5.1 *Exits
143 5.2 *Staircase
143 5.3 *Final Exit
143 8 Application
Index of Tables
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Residential
134 8-1
Buildings
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Residential
135 8-2
Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (A), consisting of
138 8-3(A) Permanent Residential Units for a Single Family (Apartments), according to
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (B), consisting of
139 8-3(B) Rooms or Dormitories for Permanent Residence, whether Individually or
Collectively, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (C), consisting of
140 8-3(C) Rooms for Temporary Accommodation such as Hotels and Furnished
Apartments, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (A),
141 8-4(A) consisting of Permanent Residential Units for a Single Family (Apartments),
according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (B),
consisting of Rooms or Dormitories for Permanent Residence, whether
141 8-4(B)
Individually or Collectively, according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (C),
consisting of Rooms for Temporary Accommodation such as Hotels and
141 8-4(C)
Furnished Apartments, according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
132
Chapter Eight
1 Residential Buildings are divided according to the type of use into two types
1.1 Collective residential buildings: such as apartments, dormitories, hotels.
1.2 Private residential buildings: like small villas (private residences), or private palaces.
First: Preventive Conditions for Collective Residential Buildings

1.1 Definition of collective residential buildings: The buildings or their parts allocated for adjacent housing.
1.1.1 Residential buildings are divided according to the type of use into three types, as follows:
1.1.1.1 Category (A) buildings consisting of permanent residential units for a single family
(apartments), such as investment housing buildings.
1.1.1.2 Category (B) buildings consisting of rooms and 4 dormitories for permanent collective
residence, such as student, staff and labor accommodation, soldiers’ dormitories,
and the like.
1.1.1.3 Category (C) buildings consisting of rooms for temporary accommodation, with or without pay,
such as hotels, motels, guesthouses, furnished apartments, and the like.
2 Fire Hazard: The Fire Hazard in Residential Buildings is classified as Light Hazard
3.1 The preventive precautionary requirements should be generally applied in the engineering fields to provide
safety for the construction frame from fire hazards.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in residential purposes should be
and the following Table 8-1 “The Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in
Residential Purposes”.
3.3 Accommodation should not be in the basement, except in special cases approved by the Civil Defense;
furthermore, an additional exit, automatic water sprinklers network, and any equipment required by the
Civil Defense must be provided.
133
The Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used in Residential Purposes
Structural Classification Appropriate Uses
Types 1 & 2 only Category (A) buildings consisting of permanent residential units for a single
family (apartments), such as investment housing buildings.
Types 1 & 2 only Category (B) buildings consisting of rooms and 4 dormitories for permanent
collective residence, such as student, staff and labor accommodation, soldiers’
dormitories, and the like.
All types, and type 1 on a Category (C) buildings consisting of rooms for temporary accommodation
temporary basis and with special with pay, such as hotels, motels, guesthouses, furnished apartments, and the
conditions like.
Table No. 8-1
4 Joint Use
4.1 Mixed-use is not permitted for the type involving a high fire hazard or industrial purpose.
4.2 Joint use is permitted of the light hazard type, such as shops, offices, etc.; provided that the Means of
Escape should be independent, and integrated preventive precautions must be provided for each part of the
building, according to the type of use.
4.3 In the event that the residential buildings are part of buildings with another use, they should be separated to
become an independent fire section provided with independent means of escapes.
each other.
4.5 The means of escape allocated for residential buildings should be independent and separate from the each
other, leading directly outside.
5.1 Horizontal Spread: Fire section area must not exceed (3000m2).
5.1.1 Residential units should be separated from each other, and each one of them is considered as an
independent fire section.
5.1.2 The hazard areas or locations must be separated from each other.
5.1.3 A fire spread preventive barrier or door should be available if the corridor is more than (30 m), also at
the joining of the corridors.
5/2 Vertical Spread:
5.2.1 The vertical gap, such as: Atriums, stairwells and elevator shafts must be separate from the building
by fire preventive walls and doors.
5.2.2 The middle gap (Atrium) is excluded if the following conditions are met:
5.2.2.1 The dimensions of the middle gap should not exceed (6 m).
134
5.2.2.2 An automatic water sprinklers network should be provided for fire-fighting, or a system to
prevent the spread of fire and smoke horizontally, approved by the Civil Defense.
5.3 External spread: The conditions of structural preventive precautions should be applied in terms of the
dimension and construction materials to control the external fire spread.
residential buildings.
6 Means of Escape (Emergency Exits):
6.1 The general requirements for the means of escape should be applied in addition to these requirements.
6.2 The Absorptive Capacity: The assimilation is estimated in accordance with the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) Chapter – Table No. 3-4; and as for the locations for other uses, the assimilation of each location is
determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
6.3 Wideness: The width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number of people who use them
as indicated in Means of Escape (Emergency Exit) Chapter.
6.5 The direct distance from any point inside the rooms to the exit or the protected stairs should not exceed (15 m)
and not more than (10 m) in the basement.
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Residential Buildings
Location Distance in Floor Cases and Observations
meters
Direct distance 11 Basement ---

In the residential 15 Upper floors For Category (A) buildings
apartment
11 Upper floors For Categories (B-C) buildings
20 Basement In case there is more than an exit

The movement distance
from the apartment’s 30 The rest of the floors ---
door to the exit or the
protected stairs 5 Basement In the case of closed-end
Closed-end 70.5 Any floor In the case of closed-end

Table No. 8-2
6.6 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors should be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter.
6.6.1 The main corridors should not be less than (150cm), whereas sub-corridors must not be less than
(120cm) in the investment housing buildings.
135
6.6.2 The width of the main corridors should not be less than (200cm), and not less than (120cm) for
sub-corridors in the residential buildings Category (B) for permanent collective residence,
whether individually or collectively, such as student, staff and labor accommodation, soldiers’
dormitories, and the like.
6.6.3 The width of the main corridors should not be less than (200cm), and for sub-corridors not less
than (120cm) in the residential buildings Category (C) consisting of rooms for temporary
accommodation, with or without pay, such as hotels, motels, guesthouses, furnished apartments,
and the like.
6.7 Exits: The general requirements for Exits must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) Chapter.
6.7.1 All exits should lead directly outside or to the fire protected stairs or corridor which is separated from
the building by an insulated space.
6.7.2 An emergency exit must be available on the second floor of the apartment (duplex villas system);
leading to the corridor or the main stairs of the building, if the internal stairs do not to the external
apartment’s door.
6.7.3 Additional exit must be available for each unit or residential room leading outside or to a protected
corridor, if the distance exceeds the limit mentioned in Table 8-2.
6.8 Ramps: Ramps must be provided at the residential buildings on ground floor, according to the general
requirements of the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) in order to be used by the people with disabilities.
6.9 Staircase: The general requirements for the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) should be applied in
addition to these conditions:
6.9.1 Staircases must be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space protected from the
fire, and leading directly outside.
building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside.
6.9.3 In special cases permitted by the Civil Defense, one staircase may be available in residential buildings
consisting of permanent residential units for a single family (apartments) with commercial facades, such as
investment housing buildings, in accordance with the following terms and the conditions of construction
system.
6.9.3.1 Number of floors must not be more than six floors, other than the ground floor.
6.9.3.2 The staircase of the residential section must be entirely independent and separate from
the staircase of the commercial section in the building.
6.9.3.3 The area of one floor must not exceed (600m2), and the total area of floors should not
exceed (1800m2); the total area is calculated according to the construction system.
6.10 Horizontal Exits: General requirements for the means of escape (emergency exits) must be applied.
6.10.1 Temporary horizontal shelter area must be provided in all residential buildings Category (B),
consisting of rooms or dormitories for permanent collective residence, whether individually or collectively, such as
student, staff and labor accommodation, soldiers’ dormitories, and the like; where the floor’s area exceeds (3000
m2).
136
6.11 Final Exit: In all cases, all means of escape should lead to a final exit that leads directly outside.
6.11.1 The sections with other types of use in the residential buildings should be treated in accordance with their
special requirements or the higher ones, whichever has the highest prevention capacity.
services according to the general conditions for engineering services, in addition to the conditions set
out in Tables 8-3(A), 8-3(B), and 8-3(C).
7.3 Motels and furnished apartments buildings dedicated for temporary accommodation without full hotel
services, and with a height not exceeding 6 floors, will be treated as open Category (A) buildings.
137
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (A), consisting of Permanent Residential Units
for a Single Family (Apartments), according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
Type Required Cases

A- Rubber Hoses Network In compound buildings, or with a height higher than
30 meters
or two floors with an area not exceeding 1000 m2
C- Moist Hydrant Network With a height more than 30 m or the area of a single
floor exceeds 1000 m2 per floor.
D- External Hydrants Network For compounds only
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basements; partial coverage of all high-rise
Firefighting buildings’ floors; high-rise compounds; compounds
with means of escape; and the buildings constructed
from third and fifth types; in addition to locations
specified according to what was stated in the
automatic fire-fighting systems.
A- Manual Alarm Network All floors in buildings that are higher than 30m
(high-rise buildings) and compounds
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors in high-rise buildings, compound
buildings and corridors; in addition to special hazard
locations, air-conditioning ducts and basement.
Table No. 8-3(A)
138
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (B), consisting of Rooms or Dormitories for
Permanent Residence, whether individually or collectively, according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases

A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basements; partial coverage of all high-rise
Firefighting buildings’ floors; high-rise compounds; compounds
with means of escape; and the buildings constructed
from third and fifth types; in addition to locations
specified according to what was stated in the
automatic fire-fighting systems.
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors especially in those that do not have fire-
extinguishing water sprinklers, and in corridors, in
addition to special hazard locations, and air-
conditioning ducts and basement.
Table No.8-3(B)
139
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (C), consisting of Rooms for Temporary
Accommodation such as Hotels and Furnished Apartments, according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basements; all compounds with means of escape; in
Firefighting addition to locations specified according to what
was stated in the automatic fire-fighting systems.
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors especially corridors, in addition to special
hazard locations, air-conditioning ducts and
basement.
Table No. 8-3(C)
while focusing on what has been stated in Tables 8-4(A), 8-4(B), and 8-4(C).
8.1 Civil Defense has the right to require additional or alternative equipment for some other preventive
precautions.
8.2 Motels and furnished apartments buildings dedicated for temporary accommodation without full hotel
services, and with a height not exceeding 6 floors, will be treated as residential buildings Category (A).
140
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (A), consisting of Permanent
Residential Units for a Single Family (Apartments), according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
High-rise buildings, compounds, and buildings that
4 Electricity Reserve Source
require fire elevator.
engineering fields.
Table No. 8-4(A)
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (B), consisting of Rooms or
Dormitories for Permanent Residence, whether individually or collectively
Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
engineering fields.
Table No.8-4(B)
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Residential Buildings Category (C), consisting of Rooms for
Temporary Accommodation such as Hotels and Furnished Apartments
Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
engineering fields.
Table No.8-4(C)
141
Second: Fire Prevention Requirements in Private Residential Buildings
Small Villas (Private Residence) or Private Palaces
1.2 Definition of private residential buildings: Small villas (private residence) or private palaces.
1.2.1 Private residential buildings are for a single family, consisting of independent houses owned or
inhabited by one family, and these houses may be in the form of villas (single floor) or of two or
three independent floors, or with open veranda; or of the type in which houses form a matrix,
and also include the houses built above the shops; provided that they are private housing units.
2 Fire Hazard: The fire hazard in residential buildings is classified as light hazard.
3.1 The fire resistance of the bearing structural frame, the external walls, bridges, floors’ ceilings should not be
less than one hour.
4 Control of the Fire Spread

4.1 Horizontal Spread: It is preferable that the fire-resistant doors of the rooms and suites in the single-family
buildings should not be less than 45 minutes.
4.2 Vertical Spread: It is preferable that the vertical openings are separated from the rest of the house parts by a
fire-resistant wall for a period not less than one hour, and with doors’ openings whose resistance should not
be less than 45 minutes.
4.3 External Spread: The single-family buildings must be separated from each other by fire preventive walls,
whose resistance should be at least one hour.
4.3.1 Wherever a single-family house of a different type of buildings shares fire preventive wall, the
resistance of that wall must not be less than the highest requirements for any of them.
4.4 Arrival of Fire-Fighting Machinery: The arrival of the Civil Defense machinery and equipment should be
facilitated to the residential buildings.
4.4.1 Fire-fighting teams should be able to approach the house with firefighting water hoses connected to
the fire hydrants or water supply tank.
4.4.2 Fire-fighting teams should be able to reach the rescue openings or balconies using the stairs or any
other equipment to carry out the rescue operations.
5 Means of escape (Emergency Exits)

5.1 Exits: It is preferable that each private housing unit should have at least two exits leading to a safe location.
5.1.1 One of the exits could have a rescue opening or balcony that enables the Civil Defense to access it, next to
the main exit or the door of the house.
5.2 Stairs: Wherever a residence is available above any store or shops, its staircase should lead to outside the
shop, and if the staircase passes through the store, the staircase must be isolated and surrounded by a wall,
whose fire resistant is at least one hour.
142
6 Fire-Fighting and Alarm Equipment: Preventive precautions must be provided in the engineering
out in Tables 8-3(A), 8-3(B), and 8-3(C).
6.1 It is preferable to provide manual fire extinguishers in the kitchen and at the end of corridors at the exits.
6.2 It is preferable to install single-function fire detectors or fire alarm system.
7 Engineering Services
7.1 Electrical connections must be carried out according to the specifications of the competent authorities, such
as the Ministry of Electricity, or in accordance with the requirements of the electricity company.
8 Application
8.1 The application of the fire prevention requirements in private residences in small villas (private palaces)
should be left to the Member States, in accordance with their regulations applicable in this field.
143
Chapter Nine
Fire Prevention and
Commercial Buildings and
Public Markets
Index
Chapter Nine
Page Symbol Chapter Nine: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Commercial Buildings and Public Markets
147 1 Definition
147 2 Fire Hazard
148 4 Mixed Use
149 6.3 *Wideness
149 6.5 *Corridors
150 6.6 *Exits
150 6.7 *Ramps
150 6.8 *Staircase
154 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Shops and Central Markets”
145
Index of Tables
Chapter Nine
147 9-1 Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Commercial
Buildings
149 9-2 Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Commercial
Buildings
152 9-3 (A) Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category
(A) - Shops, according to Category, Height and Structural Classification
154 9-4 (A) Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (A)
– Shops
154 9-4 (B) Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (B)
– Shops
146
Chapter Nine
1 Definition: Commercial buildings are divided according to the type of use into two types, namely:
1.1 Category (A) Shops: The buildings or their parts allocated for public service, such as:
Wholesale and retail sale shops: Light professions services, such as:
Shopping Centers A/ Barber shops
Central Markets (Caesarian) B/ Photo shops, and the like
1.2 Category (B) Offices: The buildings or their parts, where the number of their users does not exceed
(50) people at one time, and are allocated for office uses such as:
Business Administration Offices Small banks
Institutions Offices Corporate Offices
Consulting and Engineering Offices Real Estate Offices, and the like
2 Fire Hazard: Fire Hazard is classified in commercial buildings by Category:
2.1 The fire hazard is classified in commercial buildings Category (A) shops as medium hazard.
2.2 The fire hazard is classified in commercial buildings Category (B) offices as light hazard.
2.3 The fire hazard is classified in the mixed commercial buildings as medium hazard.
3.1 The requirements of Chapter One should be applied to provide safety for the construction frame against fire
hazards.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in commercial purposes should be
and Table 9-1 “Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Commercial
Buildings”.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Commercial Buildings according to Area,
Structural Classification Area and Height
The first and second type only With a height exceeding 3 floors or with an area
exceeding 3000m2
All types except the fifth With a height not exceeding 2 floors or with an area less
than 3000m2
All types, and the fifth type on a temporary basis and One floor or an area less than 300m2
with special conditions
Table 9-1
147
4 Mixed Use:
4.1 In the event that commercial buildings form part of buildings with other use or used for the purposes of
Categories (A) and (B), the uses should be separated from each other, so that each of them will become an
independent fire section provided with independent means of escape.
4.2 The mixed use that may contain high fire hazard or an industrial purpose must not be permitted.
4.3 The preventive requirements for the residential buildings should be applied in the event of using the
commercial buildings for housing, as in the investment residential buildings with commercial facades.
5 Control of Fire Spread: The General requirements for preventive precautions in the engineering
field should be applied in addition to these requirements
5.1 Horizontal Spread: Fire section area must not exceed the following:
5.1.1 In Category (A) shops, the fire section area must not exceed (2000m2), and each leased unit is
considered as a secondary independent fire section.
5.1.2 In Category (B) offices, the fire section area must not exceed (3000m2), and each leased unit is
considered as a secondary independent fire section.
5.2.1 Each floor is considered as an independent fire section.
5.2.2 The vertical gap must be separated in accordance with the preventive precautions requirements in the
engineering fields; whereas the middle gap (Atrium) is excluded if the following conditions are met:
5.2.2.1 The height of the middle gap should not exceed 3 floors (basement, ground floor, and mezzanine).
5.2.2.2 All floors in shops must be protected by an automatic water sprinklers network to extinguish the
fire, and supported systems for natural or mechanical ventilation at the top of the gap.
5.2.3 As for the rest of the floors of the building, the middle gap may rise in case of availability of the
following conditions:
5.2.3.1 Middle gap dimensions should not be less than 6 meters.
5.2.3.2 An automatic fire-extinguishing water sprinklers network must be provided that works
as a screen around the gap, along with a system for preventing the spread of fire and
smoke horizontally adopted by the Civil Defense.
5.2.3.3 Provision of overhead ventilation approved by the Civil Defense.
5.4 Arrival of Fire-Fighting Machinery: The arrival of the Civil Defense machinery and equipment should be
facilitated to the commercial buildings.
148
requirements.
6.2 Absorptive Capacity (Assimilation): The assimilation is estimated in accordance with the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter – Table No. 3-4; and as for the locations for other uses, the assimilation of each
location is determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
6.3 Wideness: The measurement of the width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number of
people who use them as indicated in Means of Escape (Emergency Exit) Chapter.
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Commercial Buildings
Location Distance Maximum Number Floor Case and Remarks
in meters of People
Independent, not linked to
15 30 Ground the basement or mezzanine
Floor
Independent shop linked to
15 10 Basement the building’s means of
The direct distance inside the escape
shop or office
10 10 Basement Shop is linked to the
ground floor
15 3 Mezzanine Independent, and linked to

the building
10 15 Mezzanine Linked to the ground floor
15 30 All floors In case of offices
The direct distance from the In case of the middle stairs
farthest point on the floor to the 12 --- All floors in commercial buildings
stairs door (offices)
When exits are available in
20 --- Basement more than one direction
The movement distance from
the door of the shop or office to When exits are available in
the door of protected stairs or 30 --- All floors more than one direction
the external exit
7.5 --- All floors In case of closed-end
Table No. 9-2
6.5 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors should be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter, in addition to these requirements:
6.5.1 The corridors should be organized and properly leveled in order to lead directly outside.
149
6.5.3 Width of corridors should be sufficient to accommodate the flow of people who will use them;
provided that they should not be less than (2 meters) in commercial buildings Category (A)
Commercial Shops, and not less than (1.5 meters) in commercial buildings Category (B)
Offices.
6.6 Exits: The general requirements for the exits should be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter:
6.6.1 All exits should lead directly outside or to the fire protected stairs or corridor which is separated from
the building by an insulated space.
6.6.2 The ground exit must be independent from the exits of the basement and the mezzanine.
6.6.3 Number of exits must be in accordance with the general requirements so that they are not less than
two exits at the far edges of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly
outside. 6.6.4 One exit may be accepted in commercial buildings Category (B) offices, after obtaining the
approval of Civil Defense, if the following conditions are met:
6.6.4.1 The direct distance inside the office does not exceed (15 meters).
6.6.4.2 The movement distance from the office door to the final exit or the protected stairs does
not exceed (30 meters).
6.6.4.3 The movement distance to the close-ends does not exceed (7.5 meters).
6.6.4.4 The rest of the requirements of means to escape, especially the ones concerning the
staircase, should be provided.
6.6.5 A floor may be added to the commercial shop consisting of three levels (basement, ground floor,
mezzanine), when providing an additional independent exit in the additional floor leading directly
outside, or to the protected corridor in the building.
6.7 Ramps: Ramps must be provided in commercial buildings in order to be used by people with disabilities.
6.8 Staircase: The general requirements for the stairs should be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter:
6.8.1 The number of stairs should not be less than two stairs for each floor separated at the far edges
of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside.
6.8.2 The stairs should be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space which is
protected from fire and leads directly outside.
6.8.3Staircases coming down from the first floor or ascending from the basement should lead
directly outside, or to a point not distant by more than 3 meters from the outside, and this applies to
commercial shop consisting of (basement and ground floor) or (ground floor and mezzanine) or
(ground floor and first floor) or (basement, ground floor, mezzanine and first floor).
6.8.4 One staircase may be accepted in commercial buildings after obtaining the approval of Civil
Defense, if the following conditions are met:
6.8.4.1 The distance and assimilation requirements must be provided.
6.8.4.2 The height of the building should not exceed four floors above ground, including
the ground floor and the mezzanine in the commercial buildings Category (A)
Commercial Shops, or mixed (A, B).
150
6.8.4.3 The building’s height should not exceed five floors above ground, including the
ground floor and the mezzanine in commercial buildings Category (B) Offices
only.
6.8.4.4 If the area does not exceed 600m2 per floor, and 1800m2 in total floors including
ground, mezzanine and services floors, if any.
6.8.4.5 The single staircase must be protected from fire hazard, and on the external wall of
the building, with an insulating space protected in accordance with the general
requirements.
6.8.5 The open internal staircase is not considered one of the emergency exits in commercial buildings
Category (B) Offices.
6.8.5.1 Staircase may be internal in the event that the following conditions are met:
6.8.5.2 General requirements of the staircase should be provided, especially for the movement
distance, ventilation and lighting.
6.8.5.3 Provide a protected insulated space.
6.8.5.4 The stairs and the insulated space must be separated by walls and doors preventing the
spread of fire and smoke.
6.8.5.5 The staircases must be completely separated from each other, and should not be linked
together by a single corridor so as not to be disrupted by the fire.
6.8.5.6 If there is an internal corridor, it must be in a circular form, smoke preventive doors shall
be provided in the corridor in order to divide it into sections depending on the number of
staircases.
6.9 Horizontal Exits: Temporary shelter area must be provided in the high-rise commercial buildings or those
with a large space, where the space of the floor exceeds 3000m2.
6.9.1 (50%) of the means to escape may end up in a safe location inside the building.
6.10 Final Exit: In all cases, all means to escape should lead to a final exit that leads directly outside.
6.11.1 The sections with other types of use in the commercial buildings and public markets should be
treated in accordance with their special requirements or the higher ones, whichever has the highest
prevention capacity.
7 Fire-Fighting and Alarm Equipment: Preventive precautions must be provided in the engineering
out in Tables 9-3(A) and 9-3(B)
151
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (A) - Shops, according to
Type Required Cases
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Full coverage of all floors
Firefighting
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors in high-rise buildings; in addition to
special hazard locations, air-conditioning ducts and
basement.
Table 9-3(A)
152
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (B) - Offices, according to
Type Required Cases
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basements; all high-rise buildings’ floors;
Firefighting compounds with means of escape; and the buildings
constructed from third and fifth types; in addition to
locations specified according to what was stated in
the automatic fire-fighting systems.
B- Automatic Alarm Network All floors especially in those that do not have fire-
extinguishing water sprinklers, and in corridors, in
addition to special hazard locations, and air-
conditioning ducts and basement.
Table 9-3(B)
while focusing on what has been stated in Tables 9-4(A) and 9-4(B)
8.2 Civil Defense has the right to require additional or alternative equipment for some other preventive
precautions.
153
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (A) - Shops, according to
Type Required Cases
1 Ventilation System According the International Specifications approved by
the Civil Defense
2 Illuminated Guide Signs All floors
3 Emergency Lighting Network All floors
4 Electricity Reserve Source High-rise buildings, compounds, and buildings that
6 Automatic Fire Doors In accordance with the preventive requirements in the
engineering fields.
Table No. 9-4(A)
Fire-Fighting Equipment and Alarm Systems for Commercial Buildings Category (B) - Offices, according to
Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
2 Illuminated Guide Signs All floors
3 Emergency Lighting Network All floors
4 Electricity Reserve Source All floors
engineering fields.
Table No. 9-4(B)
9 Special Preventive Conditions
9.1 In the case of shops, central markets and the like, the conditions set forth in this chapter must be met in
addition to the following conditions:
9.1.1 Half of exits should at least end up in the street, away from the preventive barrier.
9.2 The shop must be separated from the warehouse by a fire preventive wall or door.
9.3 The sub-corridors between the exhibition halls must be of a width not less than (1.5 meters) and for the
main corridors, and they must be be organized in a clear and easy manner leading directly to the exits
without any difficulty.
9.4 The public corridor leading to the exit at the preventive barrier must be less than (1 meter).
154
9.5 Barriers and display shelves should be organized in a manner that will not impede means of escape or
obscure the vision of the guide signs.
9.6 The means of escape should not pass through the warehouse attached to the shop unless the following
conditions are provided:
9.6.1 The warehouse is separated by fire preventive barrier and door according to the conditions.
9.6.2 The number of exits passing through the shop should not exceed half the number of exits required for
the shop.
9.6.3The presence of a corridor protected from fire hazard leading directly outside, or the protection of
warehouse through an automatic water sprinklers network.
155
Chapter Ten
Fire Prevention and
Index
Chapter Ten
Page Symbol Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Industrial Buildings
158 1 Definition
158 2 Fire Hazard
159 4 Mixed Use
160 6.3 *Wideness
160 6.5 *Corridors
160 6.6 *Exits
161 6.7 *Staircase
161 6.8 *Final Exit
Index of Tables
Chapter Ten
Page Table Table Name
No.
158 10-1 Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as
159 10-2 Fire Section Area in Industrial Buildings according to the dangerousness
of its operations
160 10-3 Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for
162 10-4 Fire-Fighting Equipment for Industrial Buildings according to Category,
163 10-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Industrial Buildings
157
Chapter Ten
1 Definition of Industrial buildings
Buildings and their parts intended for industrial purposes and industrial professions including: Various industrial
establishments such as dairy and furniture factories, central laundries, hazardous chemical materials laboratories,
printing presses, industrial crafts buildings which include industrial workshops of all kinds.
1.1 Industrial Establishments Buildings: They are buildings or their parts allocated for industrial purposes,
where the installation, admixture, and coating operations are conducted.
1.2 Industrial Professions Buildings: They are buildings or their allocated parts in which the repair operations
are conducted.
2 Fire Hazard
The Fire Hazard in industrial buildings is classified depending on the type of manufacturing processes, which take
place in these buildings, and they are as follows:
2.1 Medium Hazard: The factories that manufacture, assemble or produce non-combustible materials, or whose
contents burn at a medium spread speed, or emitting a remarkable amount of smoke, but do not produce
toxic fumes, and do not cause explosions when being burned, as showed in Table 1-1 in the Chapter of "
General Prevention Requirements in Buildings".
2.2 High risk: The factories that manufacture, assemble or produce combustible materials, or whose contents
burn at very high speed, or produce toxic fumes or explosions, as showed in Table 1-1 in Chapter I of
"General Prevention Requirements for Fire Protection of Buildings".
3.1 The conditions of Chapter One for the provision of safety for the structure frame from fire hazards must be
applied.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in industrial purposes should be
and the following table 10-1 " The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used for
industrial purposes."
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used for Industrial Purposes according to the
Dangerousness of its Operations
Structural Classification Hazard Level
Types 1 & 2 only High Hazard Buildings
All types, and type 5 on a temporary basis with special Medium Hazard Buildings
conditions
Table No. 10-1
158
4 Mixed Use
4.1 In the event that the buildings and industrial facilities or professions shops are part of buildings with
another use, they should be separated from each other so that each of them will become an independent fire
section with independent means of escape.
4.2 The parts of the buildings allocated for other non-industrial purposes are treated depending on the type of
use.
each other.
5 Control of the Fire Spread: General requirements for preventive precautions in the engineering field
5.1 Horizontal Spread: Fire section area must not exceed what is specified in Table 10-2, and if the division
cannot take place due to the nature of the manufacturing processes, Civil Defense may decide alternative
precautions as required by the situation.
5.1.1 The basement must be protected by providing a water sprinklers network against fire, if its area
exceeds (150m2).
Fire Section Area in Industrial Buildings according to the Dangerousness of its Operations
Hazard in Industrial Buildings Fire section area in square meters according to the floor
Ground Floor Basement and Upper Floors
2
Medium Hazard Buildings 5000m 1500m2
High Hazard Buildings 1000m2 500m2
Table No. 10-3
5.2 Vertical Spread: The preventive precautions requirements must be applied in engineering fields.
5.2.1 If there are many floors, each floor is considered as a separate fire section.
5.3 External Spread: The preventive precautions requirements must be applied in engineering fields.
5.3.1 The external walls which are located on the borders of the property from the neighbor's side must be
built of concrete and bricks.
5.4 Arrival of Fire Extinguishing Machinery: The arrival of the Civil Defense machinery must be facilitated to
the industrial buildings.

6.1 The general requirements for the means of escape (emergency exits) must be applied in addition to these
requirements.
6.2 Absorptive Capacity (Assimilation) according to what has been stated in the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) Chapter - Table 3-4, and as for the locations for other uses, the assimilation of each location is
determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
159
6.3 Wideness: The measurement of the width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number
of people who use them as stated in the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the
main corridors should not be less than (2 meters) in industrial buildings, and(1.5 meters) for sub-corridors
under any circumstances.
not be less than the figures indicated Table 10-3.
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Industrial Buildings
Location Hazard Type Floor
Ground floor Basement
Direct distance within the section Medium 15 10
High 7.5 7.5
Movement distance to the exit or the protected Medium 40 20
stairs
High 20 10
Closed-end Medium 7.5 7.5

High Not allowed Not allowed
Table No. 10-3
6.5 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the main corridors should not be less than (2 meters) in industrial
buildings, and (1.5 meters) for sub-corridors under any circumstances.
6.5.1 If the industrial locations are not fixed and corridors are unclear, the corridors should be planned must
with reflective dye to clarify the corridors and work space or storage.
6.6 Exits: The general requirements for exists must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter.
6.6.1 On each floor two distant exits should be available.
6.6.2 Number of exits must be in accordance with the general requirements so that they are not less than
two exits at the far edges of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads
directly outside.
6.6.3 All exits must lead directly outside, or to a staircase or a corridor protected from fire and separated
from the building by an insulated space.
160
6.6.4 One exit may be accepted in industrial buildings with a medium hazard level, after obtaining the
6.6.4.1 The depth or direct distance inside the section does not exceed (15 meters).
6.6.4.2 The movement distance from the section door to the final exit or the protected stairs does
not exceed (30 meters).
6.6.4.4 The rest of means of escape requirements, especially the staircase, should be available.
6.7 Staircase: The general requirements for the means of escape (emergency exits) must be applied, in
addition to the following requirements.
building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside
6.7.2 The staircases must be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space protected from
the fire leading directly outside.
6.7.3 One staircase may be accepted by Civil Defense in industrial buildings with a medium hazard level, if
all preventive conditions for industrial buildings are met.
6.9 The sections with other types of use in the industrial buildings with high hazard level should be treated in
accordance with their special requirements or the higher ones, whichever has the highest prevention
capacity.
conditions set out in 10-4
7.2 Fire Fighting Methods vary according to the industrial operations, and materials used in the industry,
therefore, and accordingly, the fire-fighting equipment and the required alarm systems vary from one
factory to another. Table 10-4 shows the minimum requirements, and the Civil Defense may request
additional equipment according to the situation.
7.3 When licensing, the Civil Defense may request additional equipment as an alternative for some preventive
precautions required in accordance with the requirements.
161
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Industrial Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases
or two floors with an area exceeding 1000 m2
C- Moist Hydrant Network With a height more than 28 m or more than two
floors with an area exceeding 1000 m2 per floor.
D- External Hydrants Network In high-hazard industrial buildings
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for In all industrial buildings. The Civil Defense has the
Firefighting right to exclude medium-hazard buildings
B- Automatic Alarm Network In high-hazard industrial facilities, or high-hazard
locations in medium-hazard industrial buildings
Table No. 10-4
162
8 Engineering Services: The requirements stated in the Engineering Services Chapter must be complied
with while focusing on what has been stated in Table 10-5
requirements
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Industrial Buildings

Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
4 Electricity Reserve Source All high-risk industrial buildings
5 Fire Elevator Not required
engineering fields.
Table No. 10-5
163
Chapter Eleven
Fire Prevention and
Warehouse Buildings and
Parking Lots
Index
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Eleven: Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in
Page Symbol
Warehouse Buildings and Parking Lots
167 1 Definition
167 2 Fire Hazard
168 4 Mixed Use
169 6.2 *Wideness
170 6.4 *Corridors
170 6.5 *Exits
170 6.6 *Staircase
170 6.8 *Final Exit
170 6.9 *Sections for Other Uses
172 9 Special Preventive Conditions “Parking Lots”
165
Index of Tables
Chapter Eleven
Table Table Name
Page
No.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used for
168 11-1
Storage Purposes
Fire Section Area in Warehouse Buildings according to the dangerousness

168 11-2
of its operations

169 11-3
Warehouse Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Warehouse Buildings according to Category,

171 11-4
172 11-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Warehouse Buildings
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Parking Lot Buildings according to

173 11-6
174 11-7 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Parking Lot Buildings
166
Chapter Eleven
1 Definition of Warehouse Buildings
1.1 Buildings or their parts allocated for the purpose of storage of raw materials, manufactured or semi-
manufactured products. This type may be a separate building or part of a manufacturing or sale operations
building.
1.2 Warehouse buildings are divided in terms of hazard into categories as follows:
1.2.1 Category (A) light-hazard buildings where non-combustible materials are stored, such as: building
materials, appliances, and spare parts.
1.2.2 Category (B) medium-hazard buildings where combustible or non-combustible materials packaged
with combustible materials are stored, such as: thick cardboard, plastic or foam granules, sawdust,
and others.
1.2.3 Category (C) high-hazard buildings where hazardous materials in general are stored; in addition to
gases, flammable liquids, and highly combustible material, such as wood, paper, fibers in bulk form,
as well as plastic foam, and the like.
2 Fire Hazard: The classification of fire hazard in warehouse buildings depends on the type of storage
operations which take place in these buildings, as follows:
2.1 Light-Hazard Category (A): They are warehouse buildings with weak combustion contents that are not
likely to self-ignite, as shown in Table 1-1 in the "General Preventive Requirements of the Buildings"
Chapter; as in non-combustible materials, such as: construction materials, appliances, and spare parts.
2.1.2 Medium-Hazard Category (B): They are warehouse buildings whose contents burn at medium spread speed
or can release noticeable quantity of smoke, but do not produce toxic vapors and do not result in explosions
during burning, as shown in Table 1-1 in the "General Preventive Requirements of the Buildings" Chapter,
as in warehouses where combustible materials or non-combustible materials packaged with combustible
materials are stored, such as: thick cardboard, plastic or foam granules, sawdust, and others.
2.2 High-Hazard Category (C): They are the warehouse buildings whose contents burn at high speed, or
produce toxic vapors or explosions, as shown in Table 1-1 in Chapter "General Preventive Requirements of
the Buildings", or the buildings where hazardous materials in general are stored; in addition to gases,
flammable liquids, and highly combustible material, such as wood, paper, fibers in bulk form, as well as
plastic foam, and the like.
167
3.1 The conditions of Chapter One for the provision of safety for the structure frame from fire hazards must be
applied.
3.2 The validity of buildings in terms of their structural aspect to be used in storage purposes should be
determined in accordance with Table No.1-2 “Classification of Buildings in terms of its Resistance to Fire”,
and the following Table 11-1 “Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used for Storage
Purposes”.
Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used for Storage Purposes according to the
Dangerousness of its Operations
Structural Classification Degree of risk

The first and second type only High-Hazard Buildings
The first and second type, and the third type with special Medium-Hazard Buildings
conditions
All types, and the fifth type on a temporary basis with Small-Hazard Buildings
special conditions
Table No. 11-1
4 Mixed Use:
4.1 In the event that the warehouse buildings are part of buildings with another use, they should be separated
from each other so that each of them will become an independent fire section provided with independent
means of escape.
4.2 The parts of the buildings allocated for purposes other than storage are treated depending on the type of
use.
each other.
5.1 Horizontal spread: Fire section space must not exceed what was outlined in Table 11-2.
5.1.1 The basement must be protected by providing a fire-extinguishing water sprinklers network, if its
space exceeds (150m2).
5.1.2 The various uses must be separated regardless of the space.
5.1.3 Special-hazard areas must be separated regardless of the space.
Fire Section Area in Warehouse Buildings according to the Dangerousness of its Operations
Hazard Type in Warehouse Fire Section Space in square meters according to the floor
Buildings Ground Floor Basement and Upper Floors
Light Hazard 5000m2 1500m2
2
Medium Hazard 3000m 1000m2
2
High Hazard 1000m 500m2
5.2 Vertical spread: The general requirements for preventive precautions must be applied in engineering fields.
5.2.1 If there are many floors, each floor is considered as an independent fire section.
168
5.3 External spread: The general requirements for preventive precautions must be applied in engineering fields.
5.3.1 The external walls which are located on the borders of the property from the neighbor's side must be
built of concrete and bricks.
5.4 Arrival of Fire Extinguishing Machinery: The arrival of the Civil Defense machinery must be facilitated to
the warehouse buildings.

6.1 The general requirements for the means of escape (emergency exits) must be applied in addition to these
requirements.
6.2 Absorptive Capacity (Assimilation): The assimilation is estimated according to what has been stated in the
Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) Chapter - Table 3-4, and as for the locations for other uses, the
assimilation of each location is determined in accordance with the nature of its use.
6.3 Wideness: The measurement of the width of the means of escape should be calculated based on the number
of people who use them as stated in the Means of Escape (Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the
main corridors should not be less than (2 meters) in industrial buildings, and(1.5 meters) for sub-corridors
under any circumstances.
not be less than the figures indicated Table 11-3.
Calculation of the Movement Distance and the Direct Distance for Warehouse Buildings
Location Hazard Type Floor
Ground Floor Basement
Direct distance within the section Small or medium 15 10
High 7.5 7.5
Movement distance to the exit or the Small 40 20
protected stairs
Medium 30 15
High 20 10
Closed-end Small or Medium 7.5 7.5

High Not allowed Not allowed
6.5 Corridors: The general requirements for corridors must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape
(Emergency Exits) Chapter; provided that the main corridors should not be less than (2 meters) in industrial
buildings, and (1.5 meters) for sub-corridors under any circumstances.
169
6.5.1 If the storage locations are not fixed and corridors are unclear, the corridors should be planned must
with reflective dye to clarify the corridors and work space or storage.
6.5.2The corridors between the storage areas must be clear and organized so that they would lead outside.
6.6 Exits: The general requirements for exists must be provided as outlined in the Means of Escape (Emergency
Exits) Chapter.
6.6.1 Number of exits must be in accordance with the general requirements so that they are not less than two
exits at the far edges of the building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside.
6.6.2 All exits must lead directly outside, or to a staircase or a corridor protected from fire and separated from the
building by an insulated space.
6.6.3 One exit may be accepted in warehouse buildings with a light or medium hazard level, after obtaining the
6.6.3.1 The depth or direct distance inside the section does not exceed (15 meters).
6.6.3.2 The movement distance from the section door to the final exit or the protected stairs does not
exceed (30 meters).
6.6.3.4 The rest of means of escape requirements should be available.
6.7 Staircase: The general requirements for the means of escape (emergency exits) must be applied, in
addition to the following requirements.
building and on the external wall, where each of them leads directly outside
6.7.2 The staircases must be protected and separated from the building by an insulated space protected from
the fire leading directly outside.
6.9 The sections with other types of use in the warehouse buildings with high hazard level should be treated in
accordance with their special requirements or the higher ones, whichever has the highest prevention
capacity.
7.1 Fire-fighting and alarm equipment should be according to the terms of Part II or the Civil Defense Directory,
in terms of design, implementation and maintenance.
7.2 The Civil Defense may request additional equipment as an alternative for some preventive precautions
required in accordance with the requirements.
170
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Warehouse Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases
Manual Extinguishers All floors and cases
A- Rubber Hoses Network All floors and cases
B- Dry Hydrant Network Not required
C- Moist Hydrant Network Not required
D- External Hydrants Network In high-hazard warehouse buildings
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Basement and all medium or high hazard warehouse
Firefighting buildings
A- Manual Alarm Network All floors and cases
In medium or high-hazard warehouse facilities, or
B- Automatic Alarm Network high-hazard locations in light-hazard industrial
buildings.
Table No. 11-4
8 Engineering Services: The requirements stated in the Engineering Services Chapter must be complied
with while focusing on what has been stated in Table 11-5
requirements
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Industrial Buildings

Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
4 Electricity Reserve Source Not required
5 Fire Elevator Not required
engineering fields.
Table No. 11-5
171
9 Special Preventive Conditions for Parking Lots
9.1 Definition of parking (lots) buildings.
9.1.1 Parking lot buildings: They are buildings used to store or park cars continuously or temporarily, and
in this definition, they are considered affiliated to warehouse buildings; therefore, the fire prevention and
protection requirements in the warehouse buildings are applied generally to the parking lots, in addition to
these requirements.
9.1.2 Parking lot buildings are divided from the architectural aspect into categories as follows:
9.1.2.1 Category (A): open-sided buildings where the car is driven to its parking place and when exiting.
Category (B): closed-sided buildings.
Category (C): buildings where the car is driven to its parking place and taken out automatically.
9.2 Fire Hazard: The fire hazard in parking lots are classified as a medium hazard, as in Table 1-1 in the
"General Preventive Requirements of the Buildings" Chapter.
9.3 Ramps in the underground parking lots:
9.3.1 Ramps are not considered as means of escape unless a part thereof was specified for this purpose, and
protected by protective barriers, furthermore, the general requirements of means of escape must be
provided.
9.3.2The ramp’s ratio to and from the basement must not exceed (1:10), and a minimum of two ramps must
be provided far apart, preferably, on two opposite sides. If not possible, the Civil Defense decides what it
deems appropriate.
9.3.3 Floor: Inclinations should be made in the basement’s floor leading to channels where spilled water or
oil are collected and discharged through the floor discharge openings, and then to the oil separator, and
from there to the public sewage, according to the engineering methods.
9.4 The side wall:
9.4.1 The side windows overlooking the main street are covered with reinforced glass or thick wire net to
prevent the entry of cigarette butts, trash, and others.
9.4.2 If parking lots sides are open by at least 25% of the area of the building’s external wall on two
opposite sides, this parking lot is considered open, and the automatic fire-extinguishing water sprinklers
system can be exempted.
9/5 Fire-fighting and alarm equipment: Preventive precautions must be provided in the engineering
9.5.1 Fire-fighting and alarm equipment should be according to the terms of Part II or the Civil Defense
Directory, in terms of design, implementation and maintenance..
9.5.2 Any construction or installation of any equipment related to storing or fueling cars in the building should
not be implemented, and shall be with special conditions.
9.5.3 Civil Defense may request additional or alternative equipment for some preventive precautions required in
172
Fire-Fighting Equipment for Parking Lot Buildings according to Category, Height and Structural
Classification
Type Required Cases
Manual Extinguishers All floors and cases
A- Rubber Hoses Network All floors and cases
B- Dry Hydrant Network Not required
C- Moist Hydrant Network All floors
D- External Hydrants Network Within the perimeter of large projects
A- Automatic Water Sprinklers Network for Closed-sided underground parking lots (basement)
Firefighting
A- Manual Alarm Network All floors and cases
B- Automatic Alarm Network Closed-sided underground parking lots
Table No. 11-6
9/6 Engineering services: The requirements stated in the Engineering Services Chapter must be complied
with while focusing on what has been stated in Tables 11-7
9.6.1 Ventilation and smoke discharge:
9.6.1.1 Sufficient mechanical or appropriate natural ventilation must be provided, according to the international
standards approved by the Civil Defense.
9.6.1.2 Mechanical ventilation system in the basement must be separate from any other system in the building, and
should be designed to run on two separate units to overcome the worst of circumstances.
9.6.2 The Civil Defense can request additional equipment or as an alternative for some other preventive
requirements.
Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Parking Lot Buildings

Type Required Cases
the Civil Defense
2 Illuminated Guide Signs Basement and all floors
3 Emergency Lighting Network Basement and all floors
4 Electricity Reserve Source Required in covered parking lots
5 Fire Elevator Buildings that include more than 4 floors
engineering fields.
173
Arabic References
1- Safety and Fire Protection Regulations and Instructions issued in the United Arab Emirates
2- Safety and Fire Protection Regulations and Instructions issued in the Sultanate of Oman
3- Safety and Fire Protection Regulations and Instructions issued in Kuwait
4- Safety and Fire Protection Regulations and Instructions issued in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
5- Regulations of the Electrical service supply to the building issued in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
6- Regulations of the principles of electrical wiring installations in buildings issued in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia
7- Regulation of the principles for securing reserved electric power sources issued in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia
8- Regulation for organizing and issuing licenses to conduct electrical works issued in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia
9- Gulf Standard Specifications "Elevators for People and Goods" with all its parts
10- Safety and security requirements of the elevators for people and goods issued by the Civil Defense in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Foreign References
1- Life Safety Code Handbook, NFPA Seventh Edition 1997
2- Fire Protection Handbook, NFPA Eighteenth Edition 1997
3- Neufert Ernst, Architects’ Data, Blackwell Science, Second (International) English Edition 1978
Copyright reserved to the General Administration of Civil Defense
‫أ‬
Printed by Al- Al Nahda Printing Press LLC – Tel: (00968) 563104
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Royal Oman Police

Fire Prevention and Protection

May God bless us and guides us towards the right path

The Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Establishments – Part One

5 The Operation and Use of a Building:

The Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Establishments – Part

Page Chapter Chapter Name

1 One General Preventive Requirements for Fire Protection in Establishments

32 Two General Requirements for Fire-Fighting Systems and Alarm Systems

54 Three General Requirements for Means of Escape (Emergency Exits)

83 Four General Requirements for Engineering Services

104 Five Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Assembly Buildings

113 Six Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Educational Buildings

130 Eight Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Residential Buildings

156 Ten Fire Prevention and Protection Requirements in Industrial Establishments

7 2 Classification of Buildings and Establishments

9 5 Site Organization Requirements for Fire Prevention:

10 5.5 * Arrival of Civil Defense Men

13 7 Control of Fire Spread:

15 7.1 *Fire Spread Prevention Units

15 7.2 *Fire Spread Prevention Barriers

19 7.5 *Fire Spread at the Surface Level between Sections

22 8 Structural Requirements for Buildings’ Construction Elements:

22 8.1 *Structural Frame

24 8.9 *Suspended (Dropped) Ceilings

24 8.10 *Thermal Insulation Wrapping

Fire-Fighting Equipment for Assembly Buildings according to Category,

111 5-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Assembly Buildings

121 6-4 Distribution of Fire Alarm Equipment in Educational Buildings

121 6-5 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Educational Buildings

129 7-4 Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Caretaking Buildings

Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Residential

135 8-2 Calculation of the Movement Distance for Residential Buildings

Fire-Fighting Equipment for Residential Buildings Category (A), consisting of

Validity of Buildings in terms of the Structural Aspect to be used as Commercial

Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (A) –

Engineering Services for Fire Prevention in Commercial Buildings Category (B) –

General Requirements for Various Construction Sections (Basements,

2.1.2.2 Educational Buildings:

2.1.2.3 Health and Social Care Buildings:

2.1.2.5 Commercial Buildings and Public Markets:

2.1.2.6 Industrial Establishments and Industrial Occupations Buildings:

2.1.2.8 Special Nature Buildings:

3 The Documentary Courses for Construction and Use Licenses

4 Design, Supervision and Execution

5 Site Organization Requirements for Fire Prevention

5.4 Arrival of Civil Defense Vehicles and Equipment

5.5 Arrival of Civil Defense Men

6 Structural Requirements and Building Materials

6.3 Specifications of Building Materials

Division of Buildings into Independent Fire Sections

Fire Sections and Fire Spread Preventive Barriers

Fire Preventive Barrier

12 Parking Lots 5000 ---

7.2 Fire Spread Prevention Units

The separating distance Bearing 4 2 -- 2 --

The separating distance Bearing 4 2 1 2 1

Bearing Structural Frame 4 2 -- 2 1

Bearing Internal Walls 3 2 -- 2 1

Fixed Internal Partitions 1 1 -- 1 --

Vertical Gap Enclosure 2 2 1 2 --

Ceiling and Flooring Tiles 2 2 1 2 --

Fire Preventive Barrier